33 Ghost Towns That Have Become Stunning Tourist Attractions

14. Thurmond, West Virginia – A Railroad Boomtown Frozen in Time

Tucked into the rugged Appalachian Mountains, Thurmond, West Virginia, was once a bustling railroad hub during the early 20th century. It thrived due to its strategic location along the Chesapeake & Ohio Railway, with a booming coal industry fueling its success. At its peak, Thurmond saw more revenue pass through its banks than any other town in the state. However, as steam locomotives declined and coal demand waned, so did the town's fortunes. Today, Thurmond is part of the New River Gorge National Park, where visitors can explore its eerily intact railroad depot, vacant storefronts, and abandoned homes. The National Park Service has preserved the town’s remnants, offering guided tours that transport visitors back to its heyday. The juxtaposition of decaying structures and the lush Appalachian landscape makes Thurmond a captivating ghost town experience.