Point Pleasant West VirginiaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Point Pleasant, West Virginia.
1. Mothman Museum
LEGEND AND LOCAL LORE
The Mothman Museum immerses visitors in the eerie legend that put Point Pleasant on the map, with fascinating exhibits showcasing eyewitness accounts, props, and memorabilia from the infamous Mothman sightings. It's a one-of-a-kind attraction where curiosity-seekers and cryptid fans can delve into the mysterious history that inspired books and movies.
2. Tu-Endie-Wei State Park
HISTORIC RIVERFRONT PARK
Tu-Endie-Wei State Park sits at the confluence of the Ohio and Kanawha Rivers, marking the site of the pivotal 1774 Battle of Point Pleasant. The park features an 84-foot monument and the historic Mansion House, making it a serene place to learn about colonial history and enjoy the river views.
3. Point Pleasant River Museum
RIVER HISTORY EXHIBITS
The Point Pleasant River Museum offers exhibits about the Ohio and Kanawha Rivers, paddle wheel boats, and local maritime history. Interactive displays and artifacts take visitors on a journey through the region's rich river transportation heritage.
4. Silver Bridge Memorial
TRAGIC ENGINEERING HISTORY
The Silver Bridge Memorial honors the 46 lives lost in the 1967 bridge collapse, with a moving plaque and mural on the city's floodwall. Visitors can reflect on the event's impact at this poignant riverside site near downtown.
5. West Virginia State Farm Museum
FARM LIFE HERITAGE
At the West Virginia State Farm Museum, guests can explore farm life through authentic buildings, machinery, and hands-on displays that showcase the state's agricultural roots. The museum also hosts annual events and features farm animals, offering an educational and family-friendly experience.
6. Point Pleasant Riverfront Park
MURALS AND STATUES
Point Pleasant Riverfront Park boasts beautiful views of the Ohio River, an amphitheater, and a vibrant series of murals and statues depicting the city's history. The park's open spaces and artwork make it a favorite spot for both relaxation and local events.
7. Mansion House Museum
1796 HISTORIC HOME
The Mansion House Museum is Point Pleasant's oldest building, originally operating as a tavern in the late 18th century before becoming a museum filled with period artifacts and battle relics. This three-story cabin stands as a testament to the town's colonial past and is open seasonally to visitors.
8. The Lowe Hotel
HISTORIC LODGING LANDMARK
The Lowe Hotel anchors Main Street with its early 20th-century architecture and vintage charm, offering accommodations steeped in local lore. Guests often seek out the hotel for its rumored hauntings and proximity to Point Pleasant's major attractions.
9. Mothman Statue
ICONIC PHOTO SPOT
The Mothman Statue stands downtown as a much-photographed tribute to Point Pleasant's most famous legend. Its metallic glint and detailed wings attract visitors seeking both a selfie and a taste of the city's unique folklore.
10. TNT Area
LEGENDARY WILDLIFE SITE
The TNT Area, once a World War II munitions manufacturing site, is now known as the haunted woodland where the first Mothman sightings took place. Adventurous visitors wander its trails hoping to glimpse the elusive cryptid or explore the ruins steeped in supernatural tales.
11. River Walk Murals
ARTISTIC FLOODWALL DISPLAY
The River Walk Murals colorfully illustrate Point Pleasant's past, stretching along the floodwall with scenes of battles, river traffic, and notable local figures. This open-air gallery invites leisurely strolls and contemplation of the city's heritage.
12. Battle Monument
REVOLUTIONARY WAR MEMORIAL
The Battle Monument at Tu-Endie-Wei State Park commemorates the soldiers who fought and died in the 1774 Battle of Point Pleasant. Standing impressively over the park, it serves as a centerpiece for historical reflection and educational tours.
13. Krodel Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION ESCAPE
Krodel Park offers lakeside fishing, playgrounds, picnic areas, and campgrounds, making it a popular destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Its serene setting on the city's edge provides an inviting space for hiking, boating, and seasonal events.
14. Fort Randolph
RECONSTRUCTED FRONTIER FORT
Fort Randolph is a faithful reconstruction of the original 18th-century frontier outpost, where visitors can learn about colonial defense and Native American relations through interpretive exhibits and reenactments. The site hosts educational programs and seasonal living history events.
15. John Marshall Memorial
JUDICIAL TRIBUTE
The John Marshall Memorial honors the influential founding father and Chief Justice, who played a role in the area's colonial history. The monument is a respectful stop for those tracing the legal and early American heritage of Mason County.