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Wheeling, West Virginia: Pope John Paul II Outside a Restaurant

Restaurant owner Mike Duplaga Jr. commissioned the six-foot-tall statue after seeing a 45-foot-tall version in Poland. Pope John Paul II stands in a little shrine, his arms raised skyward, blessing diners on the outdoor deck.

Generations Restaurant and Pub

Address:
336 National Rd, Wheeling, WV
Directions:
Generations Restaurant and Pub. I-70 exit 2A onto Hwy 88/Mt DeChantal Rd. Turn left onto US Hwy 40/National Rd. Drive a little less than a mile. You'll see the pub on the left (green roof). Turn left and drive downhill, behind the building. The statue is back there.
Admission:
Free
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Visitor Tips and News About Pope John Paul II Outside a Restaurant

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The Pope.

Pope John Paul II Outside a Restaurant

Stopped by to see His Holiness and grab some breakfast. With the papal presence in the parking lot, we didn't know what to expect inside. It's a traditional, locally-owned restaurant/pub with great food and super nice staff. We met the owner; his beer distributor best friend even sang us a few songs from his old Vegas-style lounge act. A very memorable morning!

It was fun to see a vintage "Swing Club Disco" sign in the hallway, and somewhat of a shock to find a vintage condom machine in the men's restroom.

[Mike Gassmann, 10/01/2021]

The Pope greets diners.

Pope John Paul II Outside a Restaurant

A statue of Pope John Paul II stands at Generations Restaurant and Pub, commissioned by the owner/papal admirer.

[Signmanjoe, 05/16/2015]

The Pope appears to be blessing the diners on the outdoor deck.


Nearby Offbeat Places

McColloch's Leap MonumentMcColloch's Leap Monument, Wheeling, WV - < 1 mi.
The WindmillThe Windmill, Wheeling, WV - < 1 mi.
Metal ElephantMetal Elephant, Wheeling, WV - < 1 mi.
In the region:
Cy Young Hometown Museum, Newcomerstown, OH - 49 mi.

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