West Virginia Penitentiary

West Virginia Penitentiary, located in Moundsville, West Virginia, is a historic former prison that operated from 1876 to 1995. Known for its imposing Gothic architecture and long history of incarceration, this site has become a popular tourist attraction for those interested in exploring the darker side of American history. Once home to some of the most dangerous criminals in the state, the penitentiary is now open to the public for tours, allowing visitors to experience its eerie atmosphere and learn about its fascinating, yet troubled, past. From its prison cells to its notorious execution chamber, West Virginia Penitentiary offers a unique, sometimes chilling experience.

Why Visit West Virginia Penitentiary

• Historic Significance: As one of the most notorious prisons in the United States, the West Virginia Penitentiary has housed thousands of inmates, many of whom were convicted of serious crimes. The penitentiary played a significant role in the criminal justice system in West Virginia and has an important place in the state’s history.
• Gothic Architecture: The penitentiary’s Gothic Revival style architecture is an iconic feature of the building. Visitors can admire its towering stone walls, pointed arches, and intricate detailing that give the facility its ominous look. The prison is often considered one of the most visually striking historical buildings in the region.
• Guided Tours: The penitentiary offers informative guided tours led by knowledgeable staff, who provide visitors with insights into the history of the prison, the lives of its inmates, and the challenges of running a maximum-security facility. The tours cover the history of the prison, its operations, and the many notable events that took place behind its walls.
• Notorious Inmates: Over the years, the penitentiary housed some of West Virginia’s most infamous criminals. During the tours, visitors can learn about the lives of these notorious figures, including their crimes and the punishments they faced.
• Ghost Tours and Paranormal Investigations: Known for its haunted reputation, the West Virginia Penitentiary offers ghost tours and paranormal investigations for those interested in the supernatural. These tours allow visitors to explore the most eerie parts of the prison, including darkened cells and areas that have a history of ghostly activity.
• Execution Chamber: One of the most sobering aspects of the West Virginia Penitentiary is the execution chamber, where executions by the electric chair were carried out. Visitors can learn about the history of capital punishment in the state and the individuals who met their end within the prison’s walls.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit West Virginia Penitentiary is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the crowds are manageable. These seasons offer pleasant weather for walking around the penitentiary grounds and exploring its dark corridors. If you are interested in a more atmospheric visit, the Halloween season offers special events, ghost tours, and paranormal experiences that enhance the spooky ambiance of the penitentiary. Summer months are also a popular time for tourists, with extended hours for tours and special events, so plan accordingly.

How to Get There

• By Car: West Virginia Penitentiary is located at 818 Jefferson Avenue, Moundsville, West Virginia, and is easily accessible by car. It is located just off U.S. Route 250 and is about a 1-hour drive from Wheeling, West Virginia, and 2 hours from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. There is ample parking on-site for visitors.
• By Public Transit: Public transportation to Moundsville is limited, so it is recommended to drive or take a taxi or rideshare service to reach the penitentiary.
• By Taxi or Rideshare: Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are available in Moundsville and the surrounding area. Visitors can use these services to get to the penitentiary from nearby hotels or transportation hubs.
• By Train: Amtrak’s Cardinal route stops in nearby Wheeling, about 30 minutes from Moundsville by car. Visitors can take a taxi or rideshare service to reach the penitentiary from the train station.

Tips for Visitors

• Prepare for a Chilling Experience: The penitentiary is known for its haunted reputation, so be prepared for a potentially eerie experience. If you’re interested in ghost tours, book in advance, as these tours can fill up quickly, especially during the Halloween season.
• Wear Comfortable Shoes: The penitentiary covers a large area, and visitors will be walking through hallways, staircases, and outdoor areas. Wear comfortable shoes to ensure you can explore the facility with ease.
• Bring a Camera: The penitentiary is filled with unique photo opportunities, from its imposing exterior to its hauntingly empty cellblocks. Take advantage of the chance to capture some memorable images, but be respectful of the facility and its historical significance.
• Stay for a Paranormal Investigation: If you’re a fan of the supernatural, consider staying for a paranormal investigation. The penitentiary offers special tours where visitors can explore dark, off-limits areas of the prison and try to experience paranormal activity firsthand.
• Check Tour Schedules: The penitentiary offers different types of tours, including historical tours and ghost tours. Check the schedule before your visit to determine which tours are available on the day of your visit and book in advance if necessary.
• Be Mindful of the Atmosphere: The West Virginia Penitentiary is a place of dark history, and its atmosphere can be unsettling. Be mindful of the somber nature of the site, particularly when visiting areas related to capital punishment or the prison’s violent past.

West Virginia Penitentiary is a must-visit for anyone interested in American history, architecture, or the supernatural. Its rich, albeit dark, history offers visitors a chance to explore one of the most fascinating and eerie historic sites in the state. Whether you’re touring the prison’s cells, learning about its notorious inmates, or participating in a spine-chilling ghost tour, a visit to the penitentiary is a memorable experience that offers an intriguing glimpse into the state’s criminal justice past. It’s a unique attraction for those seeking a combination of history, mystery, and a touch of the supernatural.