The Mystery Hole
- Admission
- $8 per person
- Hours
- Seasonal (typically May through October), Thursday to Sunday from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Duration
- 30-45 minutes
- Parking
- Free on-site gravel parking lot
- Access
- Not wheelchair accessible due to steep angles, slanted floors, and stairs.
A classic gravity-defying roadside wonder, this quirky spot challenges your sense of balance and reality. Visitors experience tilted rooms where water appears to flow uphill and people stand at impossible angles. It's a delightfully kitschy slice of Appalachian pop culture complete with a crashed VW Beetle out front.
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Located near the scenic New River Gorge, The Mystery Hole is a classic American roadside oddity that has baffled visitors since it first opened in 1973. Created by Donald Wilson, this gravity-defying attraction invites tourists into a subterranean chamber where the laws of physics seem to bend.
Inside, visitors experience mind-bending optical illusions where water appears to flow uphill and people stand at impossible angles. The quirky, retro atmosphere is enhanced by a brightly painted exterior featuring a crashed model airplane and giant, colorful signage.
Part of its enduring charm is the lighthearted, theatrical presentation delivered by the tour guides. It remains a beloved, nostalgic stop that perfectly captures the golden age of whimsical Appalachian roadside culture.
Ratings
roadside attractionVisitor Tips
- ◆ Bring cash, as the attraction sometimes operates on a cash-only basis for admission and souvenirs.
- ◆ Be prepared for a guided tour, which is the only way to experience the main attraction inside.
- ◆ Check seasonal operating hours before visiting, as the site is typically closed during the winter months.
- ◆ Make a stop at the gift shop to pick up unique, retro-themed memorabilia and bumper stickers.
Heads Up
- ◆ The optical illusions and slanted floors inside the chamber can cause motion sickness, dizziness, or temporary loss of balance.
- ◆ The attraction is not wheelchair accessible due to steep, uneven steps and the deliberate tilt of the exhibition area.
Common questions
Are you allowed to take photos inside the Mystery Hole?
No, photography and video recording are strictly prohibited inside the attraction. Visitors are only permitted to take photos of the exterior and the gift shop area.
Is the Mystery Hole wheelchair accessible?
No, the attraction is not wheelchair or stroller accessible due to steep stairs, narrow underground passageways, and tilted floors.
How long does the tour of the Mystery Hole take?
The guided tour lasts approximately 10 to 15 minutes. Most visitors spend about 30 minutes total at the site, which includes browsing the gift shop.
Can the Mystery Hole cause motion sickness or dizziness?
Yes, the optical illusions and slanted floors inside the attraction can cause feelings of disorientation, dizziness, and mild nausea. Visitors who are highly sensitive to motion sickness should use caution.