The Mystery Hole photo 1
© thart2009 · CC BY 2.0
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The Mystery Hole

📍 16124 Midland Trail, Ansted, WV 25812

This classic Appalachian roadside oddity challenges gravity with mind-bending optical illusions where water flows uphill and chairs cling to walls. Established in 1973, its quirky exterior is instantly recognizable by the vintage VW Beetle crashed into its side. It's a delightfully retro, interactive experience that will leave you both laughing and dizzy.

Admission
$9.00 per person
Hours
Seasonal (May through October); Thursday - Sunday, 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM (Hours may vary)
Duration
30-45 minutes
Parking
Free on-site gravel parking lot
Access
Not wheelchair accessible due to steep slopes, uneven floors, and narrow passages designed to disorient visitors.
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Opened in 1973 by Donald Wilson, the Mystery Hole is one of West Virginia’s most beloved and eccentric roadside attractions. Located along Route 60 near Ansted, this classic gravity-defying experience has bewildered generations of travelers.

Inside the underground chamber, visitors experience a world where the laws of physics seem to have gone completely haywire. Water appears to flow uphill, objects roll upward, and people stand at seemingly impossible angles without falling over.

The attraction fully embraces its retro, kitschy charm with whimsical outdoor decor, including a crashed yellow Volkswagen Beetle embedded in the side of the building. It remains a delightful monument to mid-century American roadside showmanship, offering a quick, lighthearted detour into the surreal.

Ratings

attraction
Historical Significance
3/5
Cultural Relevance
4/5
Fun Factor
5/5
Accessibility
1/5
Photo Worthiness
4/5
Interactivity
5/5
Kid Friendliness
4/5
Popularity
3/5
Nearby Food ✓Good for Kids ✓

Visitor Tips

  • ◆ Check seasonal operating hours before visiting, as the attraction is typically closed during the winter months.
  • ◆ Be sure to bring cash, as payment methods can vary and a small admission fee is required for the guided tour.
  • ◆ Take time to photograph the quirky exterior, including the famous crashed VW Bug.

Heads Up

  • ◆ The optical illusions and tilted floors inside can cause mild motion sickness, vertigo, or disorientation for some visitors.
  • ◆ The attraction is not wheelchair accessible due to the uneven, highly tilted floors and stairs.

Common questions

Is the Mystery Hole wheelchair accessible?

No, the attraction is not wheelchair accessible due to its steep, tilted floors, narrow passages, and stairs.

Can you take photos inside the Mystery Hole?

No, photography and video recording are strictly prohibited inside the attraction, though visitors are welcome to take photos of the exterior and the giant gorilla statue.

How long is the tour of the Mystery Hole?

The guided tour of the gravity-defying room lasts approximately 10 to 15 minutes.

Can the Mystery Hole cause motion sickness?

Yes, the optical illusions and slanted floors can cause temporary disorientation, dizziness, or mild motion sickness for some visitors.

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