Archive of the Afterlife

Moundsville, West Virginia

Dubbed the “National Paranormal Museum”, Archive of The Afterlife features an exhibit on it’s haunted neighbor, the West Virginia State Penitentiary. Additional museum contributions are consistently updated, and include a variety of eerie memorabilia. Aside from the prison, exhibits include Haunted Artifacts, Spiritual Protection and General – which ranges everything from funeral tools, hospital remnants and cemetery history.

Open: Year round, hours vary by season

Barbour County Historical Museum Phillipi, West Virginia

What sets this county museum aside from the rest is that it remains the resting place for two globally viewed mummies, former Trans-Allegheny Asylum patients who were purchased from a local scientist years ago. His fascination with preservation techniques of ancient Pharaohs today makes for one of the best oddities in the state, for only a dollar a viewing. Other finds at the museum include antique exhibits which feature things on railroad history, flags, and more.

Open: May-October

Lost World

Caverns Natural History Museum

Lewisburg, West Virginia

Out of the various attractions at this Greenbrier County natural beauty, one of the coolest is the Natural History Museum. It hosts the state’s largest collection of dinosaur fossils and fossil replicas, as well as other geological and scientific awe-inspiring artifacts. In addition to the museum, Lost World also offers things such as authentic guided tours and overnight bus and RV parking. The hands on experience is perfect for all ages, alone or with a group.

Open: Year round

The Old Mill

Harman, West Virginia

This postcard oasis is a must visit for outdoor lovers. The Old Mill is listed on the National Historical Registry and has been open since 1877, yet magically still remains operable and is used periodically. It has been transformed into a working museum, and is a staple to West Virginia’s natural beauty. Visitors can find the three story mill off of Route 32, with most of it’s original pieces still intact.

Open: Memorial Day – Labor Day

John Brown Wax Museum

Harper’s Ferry, West Virginia

Close to a hundred wax figures immortalize the raid on Harper’s Ferry via imaginative storytelling at the state’s sole wax museum. Adding to authenticity, the building itself was standing during the very time of the raid. The exhibit is furnished with music, audio enhancements, and historical background on the events, keeping the town’s legacy alive and well for both locals and national attendees.

Open: Year round (hours vary per season)