Right in the heart of Sutton, West Virginia, the Flatwoods Monster Museum is way more than just a museum—it’s an amazing exploration of one of the wildest and most mysterious pieces of American cryptozoology.
If you plan to visit this place, don’t expect just a bunch of artifacts on display. The museum also brings to life the story of the Flatwoods Monster, a cryptid that’s become a significant part of local culture and history.
So, if you’re into cryptids, bizarre legends, or just love a good mystery, this museum is a must-see.
It’s a unique mix of education and entertainment that’ll leave you both curious and a little spooked. You won’t find an experience like this anywhere else!
In this article:
Exhibits and Displays
So, what can you actually see at the Flatwoods Monster Museum? Well, the museum offers a captivating look at the 1952 Flatwoods Monster incident with a bunch of well-cared-for exhibits that bring the legend to life.
When you enter, you’re greeted by a life-sized replica of the Flatwoods Monster, setting the stage for what’s to come.
The one-room museum is packed with unique artifacts (including original newspaper clippings, sketches, and various interpretations of the monster)—“Monsterabilia.”
Here, you’ll find a detailed timeline of the event, some eyewitness accounts, and a plethora of information about the following investigation.
There are also handmade wooden figurines, T-shirts, and even
Flatwoods Monster-inspired video games.
Interestingly, they also included some quirky international connections, like Japanese interpretations of the monster that have given it a cult following overseas.
Some of these creations range from spooky to downright bizarre—like one life-sized model made from a graduation gown, PVC pipe, and a red pizza pan!
Beyond the exhibits, the museum serves as a hub for all things eerie in West Virginia. How so? You can always share some ghost stories and UFO sightings with the friendly and knowledgeable staff.
And believe us… they DO have some stories to share.
Flatwoods Monster Museum Location and Accessibility
Looking for a quick but memorable stop in Sutton, West Virginia? The Flatwoods Monster Museum is just the spot.
Located right on Main Street, in an old apothecary building, only two miles off Exit 62 on I-79, this small yet fascinating museum packs a lot of charm into its single room. You’ll find a collection of miniature replicas of the famous Monster.
Not to mention the cute photo-op chair just around the corner of the building (there’s even another one further away in town).
Despite its size, the museum is brimming with fascinating displays and a well-stocked gift shop, making it easy to spend 20 minutes soaking up the local lore.
And don’t forget—it’s completely free to visit, with plenty of free parking nearby.
The staff is known for being super friendly and informative, so you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for this local legend. Plus, you can easily make it a double feature with a visit to the Bigfoot museum just a block away!
The Flatwoods Monster Museum is open Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM and on weekends from 10 AM to 4 PM, so there’s plenty of time to fit it into your schedule.
And if you’re lucky, you might even catch the mysterious old pay phone ringing as you walk by—just one of the many oddities that make this place unforgettable.
For more detailed information, you can visit the museum’s official page.
You can also check the location and get directions on Google Maps.
Flatwoods Monster Museum Reviews
We loved our time at the Flatwoods Monster Museum. And based on other people’s reviews and testimonies, they loved it, too.
As mentioned above, the museum is housed in an old apothecary building, adding to its vintage, mysterious vibe. It’s probably why so many often describe it as a quirky and captivating stop that perfectly encapsulates the eerie charm of small-town folklore.
Some visitors also appreciate the museum’s cozy atmosphere and the care taken in displaying the artifacts.
The museum has got quite a few reviews for its friendly and informative staff, who are always eager to share stories and answer questions.
On top of that, the gift shop is a hit among visitors, offering unique souvenirs like Flatwoods Monster-themed T-shirts, stickers, and even books. And since admission is free, many actually recommend buying a souvenir or making a small donation to support the museum.
Flatwoods Monster Museum reviews and testimonials:
This museum is really neat. It has everything spooky. You can buy different figures that look like the Flatwoods Monster. There is also a video documentary playing that tells about the monster’s discovery.
—Brittany J.
Loved it! A lot of really cool things to look at. I got some great stuff in the gift shop. And the building itself (woodwork shelves) is amazing.
—Mark L.
Must visit if in the area and you like cryptozoology stuff. Friendly staff. Lots to see.
—Sarah K.
For more visitor experiences, you can check out the reviews on TripAdvisor.
Importance and Recognition
The Flatwoods Monster Museum has been featured in various media. In fact, over the years, it has become a point of interest for many cryptids and paranormal fans.
It has also appeared in several documentaries, such as the 2018 “The Flatwoods Monster: A Legacy of Fear,” part of the acclaimed “Small Town Monsters” series.
It’s a staple documentary that analyzes the strange 1952 encounter that made the Flatwoods Monster famous and has been well-received for its thorough exploration of the legend.
In addition to this, the museum has also been featured in international programs like “America’s Got Aliens” from Hong Kong and podcasts like Nerdist’s Bizarre States (between 2014 and 2019).
All these shows have helped bring the museum and the legend it preserves to a global audience.
The museum also serves as a hub for the community, hosting events and acting as a visitor center for Braxton County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the hours for the Flatwoods Monster Museum?
The museum is open Monday to Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM and on weekends from 10 AM to 4 PM. It’s worth noting they may close briefly around midday for lunch.
What’s the story behind the Flatwoods Monster?
The museum was established to preserve and share the legend of the Flatwoods Monster, which stems from a famous UFO sighting in 1952 in Flatwoods, West Virginia. The museum is housed in an old apothecary building and also functions as the Braxton County Visitor Center.
Where is the museum located?
You’ll find the museum at 208 Main Street, Sutton, West Virginia, just two miles off Exit 62 on I-79. Be cautious with GPS as it might misdirect you to a similarly named street.
Do you have to pay to get into the Flatwoods Monster Museum?
No. The admission is free for everyone, making it an accessible stop for all.
What kinds of exhibits can I see?
The museum features a range of exhibits, including life-sized replicas of the Flatwoods Monster, original newspaper clippings from the 1952 sighting, memorabilia, and video documentaries that recount the legend.
Is the museum kid-friendly?
Yes, the museum is suitable for children, especially those interested in mysteries and folklore. Feel free to bring your whole family in!
Do they offer any type of guided tours?
No guided tours are available, but the museum provides a self-guided experience with informational displays and video content.
Can you take photos inside the Flatwoods Monster Museum?
Yes, photography is allowed inside, so feel free to capture every moment of your visit.
Are there any places to stay or eat near the museum?
Yes, there are nearby accommodations and restaurants. For great food, we recommend BrAXton Bistro or Elk River Hotel & Cafe (which also offers affordable accommodation). For those who like Mexican food, Maria’s Mexican is a nice restaurant just down the road.
Can I buy souvenirs from the location?
Absolutely! The museum offers a variety of souvenirs, including T-shirts, hats, stickers, and more. However, they don’t sell items online, so you’ll need to visit in person to pick up these unique items.
