The West Virginia Penitentiary in Moundsville isn’t your typical family day trip destination, but for history buffs and adventure seekers, it offers a fascinating glimpse into the past. Built in 1876, this Gothic-style state prison once housed some of the country’s most notorious criminals. It’s now a popular tourist attraction for historical tours, paranormal investigations, and educational visits led by the Moundsville Economic Development Council.
My daughter loves anything haunted, so when we started planning a road trip through West Virginia, this stop instantly made the list—and it didn’t disappoint. While this article will tell you everything you need to know about visiting, I won’t go over every single thing we learned on the tour. Some things are better left as surprises—otherwise, what’s the fun of going?
But is it family-friendly? The answer is yes—with the right planning! Whether you’re exploring its eerie history during the daytime or considering a spooky nighttime ghost tour, this guide covers everything you need to know to make your visit smooth, safe, and enjoyable for all ages.
Here’s a quick overview of what to know before you go:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 818 Jefferson Ave, Moundsville, WV |
| Tour Cost | Around $15 adults / $10 kids (subject to change) |
| Parking | Free, along the front of the prison |
| Bathrooms | Yes – clean but small, with only a few stalls |
| Tour Duration | ~90 minutes. It depends on the tour you choose |
| Accessibility | Yes. The Guided Day Tours are. |
| Best Time to Visit | Weekdays or mornings for fewer crowds |
| Kid-Friendly? | Yes. All ages are welcome on the Guided Day Tours |
Is the West Virginia Penitentiary Family-Friendly?
The short answer is yes—but it depends on your child and how much planning you do ahead of time. While a prison tour might not sound like the typical family-friendly outing, the West Virginia State Penitentiary has a surprising amount to offer families with school-aged kids and teens.
Historical Day Tours are the most family-appropriate option. These tours are structured, educational, and led by knowledgeable guides who know how to tailor their stories depending on the group. You’ll learn about everything from the prison’s early days in the late 1800s to its use as a state prison housing male inmates until 1995. The guides focus on the building’s architecture, the history of capital punishment, and notable events like the New Year’s Day riot, without going too deep into graphic detail.
There are no costumed actors or theatrical scares on these tours—which makes a big difference when you’re bringing younger kids. The stories are spooky, yes, but more in the “haunted history” kind of way, not horror-movie style.
However, there are parts of the penitentiary and stories that may be a bit intense for some kids. The five-by-seven-foot cells are dark and small, and the guides may close the door briefly to give visitors a feel for what it was like. You’ll also see Old Sparky, the prison’s electric chair—a stark reminder of the harsh punishments once used here. It can be a heavy moment, even for adults. Parents may want to decide in advance whether to explain what it is or skip that part entirely.
Paranormal and Twilight Tours are typically restricted to older visitors (12+ or 18+, depending on the event). These tours dive deeper into ghost stories, the building’s reputation as one of the most haunted places in the United States, and unexplained activity. They are usually held in the evening, when the prison feels even more eerie. Unless your teen is really into ghost hunting or abandoned locations, it’s best to stick with the day tours.
Ultimately, if your kids are interested in history, true crime, or spooky stories, the Moundsville Penitentiary can be a fascinating stop. With the right mindset and preparation, it offers a unique educational experience that you won’t find at your average museum or park.
What to Expect on a Day Tour
A visit to the West Virginia Penitentiary is equal parts fascinating, eerie, and informative. Whether you’re here for the history, the architecture, or the ghost stories, there’s plenty to experience from the moment you arrive.
As you approach, you’ll notice the towering prison walls and Gothic-style stonework dominating the residential streets of Marshall County. It’s both surprising and surreal to see such a large, historic facility nestled right in the middle of a quiet neighborhood.
When you arrive, you’ll find free parking directly in front of the penitentiary, with additional street parking nearby. Check-in is located just inside the main door. Staff are friendly and efficient, and if you arrive early, you’re welcome to browse the gift shop or use the restrooms. Note: the bathrooms are clean but small, with only a couple of stalls.
To make the check-in process smoother and ensure you get your preferred tour time, it’s highly recommended to book your tickets online in advance and complete your waivers ahead of time. This saves time and helps staff keep things moving efficiently, especially on busier days.
The day tour takes you through different sections of the former prison, including cell blocks, the execution area where the electric chair is located, the new cafeteria, visitation rooms, and recreation yards. Each stop reveals another layer of what life was like for inmates and staff during the penitentiary’s years of operation. Guides share stories of past escapes, riots, and how the facility operated under the Department of Corrections, offering insight into daily life inside and broader prison policy at the time.
Tours begin at set times and can include up to 40 visitors. We visited in early June and had a small group of just 15 people, which made it easier to hear the guide and move through the space. The guides are knowledgeable and engaging, often sharing memorable stories and facts. One of the highlights for our group was hearing the guide talk about the unexplained banging sounds staff had reportedly heard earlier that day. We also really enjoyed exploring areas like the five-by-seven-foot cells, where we had the chance to step inside and experience just how cramped they truly were. The guides sometimes close the doors briefly to demonstrate just how confined the space was.
You’ll also learn about the prison’s overcrowded conditions in the early 1900s, the use of executions as a form of capital punishment, and its involvement in key rulings by the West Virginia Supreme Court regarding inmate treatment and facility conditions.
Expect to be on your feet for about 90 minutes. Some of the interior walls are worn and weathered, which adds to the authenticity but also makes sturdy shoes a must.
If you’re a history lover or just curious about life inside one of the most dangerous prisons in the country, this tour offers a unique glimpse you won’t find elsewhere.
Best Time to Visit the West Virginia Penitentiary
- Tours typically run from April through November, when the weather in West Virginia is generally more comfortable for walking tours. Spring and early fall are especially ideal times to visit, thanks to mild temperatures and smaller crowds compared to peak summer months. If you’re visiting in the fall, the seasonal atmosphere adds an extra layer of spookiness—perfect for the haunted history of the penitentiary.
Keep in mind that the building is not climate-controlled. There’s no heat in the winter and no air conditioning in the summer, so indoor temperatures are usually the same as whatever it feels like outside. Dress in layers if you’re visiting during cooler months, and bring water and light clothing if you’re planning a tour in warmer weather. A little planning goes a long way in making the experience more comfortable, especially for kids and older adults.
Tour Options at the West Virginia Penitentiary
Whether you’re into history, photography, or the paranormal, there’s a tour type for every kind of visitor. Here’s a breakdown of what’s offered:
- Guided Day Tours: 90-minute guided tours for all ages, covering the prison’s background, inmate life, execution practices, and how punishment has evolved over time. Tickets start at $15 per person.
- Twilight & Paranormal Tours: These after-dark experiences dive into the penitentiary’s haunted history and unexplained activity. Tours typically last 3 hours or more and start at $40 per person. These tours are restricted to older guests (ages 13+ or 18+, depending on the event) and are not recommended for children.
- Photography Tours: For ages 18+. These tours run approximately 4 hours and start at $100. You’ll have the chance to explore and photograph areas like the south and north wagon gates at your own pace. This is not a guided tour.
- Escape Rooms & Haunted House Events: Seasonal and intense, best reserved for adults or older teens.
Tips for Visiting with Kids and Adults
- Wear comfortable shoes with good traction. Open-toed shoes and heels are not permitted, so make sure to choose sturdy, closed-toe footwear.
- Pack layers, especially in spring or fall, as indoor areas can be chilly or hot.
- Bring plenty of water, especially if it’s hot outside.
- Talk to your kids ahead of time to gauge how they feel about touring the penitentiary.
- It’s important to remind kids to stay quiet during the tour so others can hear the guide. For toddlers, consider bringing quiet books or activities in case they get bored.
- Strollers are allowed on daytime historical tours.
What to Pack for Your Visit
You don’t need much to enjoy the tour, but these optional items can make your visit more comfortable—especially during warmer months:
- Compact personal fan – Helpful in summer since the building is not air-conditioned
- Insulated water bottle – Keeps your drink cool during the 90-minute walking tour
- Portable phone charger – Great if you take lots of pictures or use your phone for navigation. This one allows you to easily take pictures while your phone is charging.
- Small crossbody bag or belt bag – Keeps your hands free and essentials secure
These are items we personally bring along on trips like this. If you’re shopping for gear, check out our Travel Gear Favorites page for our top picks.
Bringing Pets to the West Virginia Penitentiary
Pets are welcome on daytime historical tours at the West Virginia Penitentiary. Dogs must be friendly, quiet, and remain leashed at all times. Visitors are expected to clean up after their pets.
To make the experience easier for both you and your pet, consider bringing:
- A collapsible water bowl and bottle of water for hot days
- Poop bags for clean-up (there are no disposal stations on-site)
- Pet-safe wipes or cleaning supplies in case of accidents inside the penitentiary
- A comfortable leash or harness to keep them secure while walking
Note that pets are not allowed on ghost hunts, haunted house events, or the North Walk tour. Always double-check the latest policy before you visit.
Parking, Costs & Accessibility
- Free parking is available in two small lots near the entrance—one directly next to the building and another across the street. Additional parking is permitted along the street in front of the prison, north of the main lot. Visitors are asked not to park on the residential side of Jefferson Avenue. There are also designated parking areas at the south end of the property.
- Tickets range from $15+ per person depending on the tour type. Kids under 5 are typically free on day tours.
- The building is not fully ADA accessible. There are stairs, uneven surfaces, and narrow walkways in parts of some tours. The guided day tours are accessible, but call ahead if you have concerns—staff are helpful and may offer alternate routes..
Note: Due to privacy law limitations and the building’s preservation as a national historic landmark, certain areas may be off-limits to large strollers or unsupervised exploration.
Can You Visit Other Attractions Nearby?
Yes! Moundsville has more to offer:
- Grave Creek Mound Archaeological Complex — Right across the street with a small museum and burial mound.
- Marx Toy Museum — A short drive away with nostalgic toys and displays.
- Grand Vue Park — Ziplining, mini-golf, and scenic picnic spots.
For history fans, other spots like the Ohio County Jail and abandoned locations in Pence Springs offer more off-the-beaten-path adventures.
Where to Stay Nearby
- Sleep Inn & Suites Moundsville — A reliable, pet and budget-friendly option just 5 minutes from the penitentiary. Clean and simple, great for a short overnight stay.
- Oglebay Resort (Wheeling, WV) — Perfect for families, this resort offers pools, a zoo, hiking trails, and a variety of dining options. It’s about 25 minutes away but makes a great base for exploring the area.
- Hampton Inn Wheeling — Our top pick for comfort and reliability. This pet-friendly hotel offers a pool, free breakfast, and consistently clean, quiet rooms. Staff is always polite, and we’ve never had a bad experience at a Hampton. It can be pricey, but we use their Amex rewards card to earn free nights and offset the cost. Located about 25 minutes from the penitentiary.
Check West Virginia hotel deals
More West Virginia Adventures
- NROCKS Via Ferrata — a guided rock climbing adventure for families with older kids.
- New River Gorge Whitewater Rafting — a summer favorite.
- Bridge Walk New River Gorge — walk beneath the bridge on a catwalk tour.
- Blackwater Falls State Park — scenic hikes and waterfalls.
- Endless Wall Trail — perfect for a short, scenic family hike.
Final Thoughts
The West Virginia State Penitentiary in Moundsville gives visitors a unique glimpse into prison history, correctional policy, and life inside one of the most violent correctional facilities in the United States. From the New Year’s Day riot to life in small cells under harsh conditions, it’s a stark reminder of how much has changed—and how much hasn’t.
With a little planning, this unusual destination can be an educational, eye-opening, and even thrilling experience for families. Whether you’re interested in true crime, architecture, or just something totally different, this stop is one you won’t forget.
For families looking to break away from the usual tourist traps and dive into something truly unique, this is the kind of experience your kids will talk about long after the road trip ends.
Have you ever taken a haunted tour with your family? Or would you visit a place like this with kids? Drop your thoughts in the comments!
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