'Quietest Town In America' Where Cellphones And Microwaves Are Illegal For A Chilling Reason

Visiting what’s considered the 'quietest town' in the world might sound intriguing, but letting your friends and family know about your experience while you’re there could be a real challenge.

These days, most of us are glued to our phones. Whether it’s navigating with Google Maps, checking out the latest posts on Instagram or TikTok, or enjoying music on Spotify, our devices are practically extensions of ourselves.

But this town is unlike anything most of us are used to. The very technology that we rely on daily is entirely absent here, and for good reason.

In Green Bank, West Virginia, things are quite different. This small town, with a population of just 52 people as of 2023, has strict rules banning WiFi and other wireless devices.

It’s a designated quiet zone, which means no phone signal, no radio airwaves, and certainly no social media updates while you’re there. For some, it might feel like stepping back in time.

The ban isn’t arbitrary—it’s in place to protect vital scientific work happening nearby. It’s all part of what makes this town so unique, yet also a bit challenging for modern visitors.

WiFi is banned in the small town of Green Bank, West Virginia ROBERTO SCHMIDT/AFP via Getty Images

The reason for this ban lies in the cutting-edge scientific research taking place in the area. Green Bank is home to a massive telescope and other sensitive equipment operated by the National Radio Astronomy Observatory. These instruments rely on a lack of interference to perform their work accurately.

Wireless devices, if used in the vicinity, could disrupt these important operations. A recent documentary called Small Town Universe explored life in the town and touched on some fascinating rumors, including the idea of hidden nuclear bunkers beneath the telescope.

The documentary’s director, Katie Dellamaggiore, shared why the town captivated her attention, highlighting its unique way of life and the role it plays in scientific exploration.

She said: "The town's unique, unplugged lifestyle immediately caught my attention."

"It was even more intriguing that scientists use the Green Bank Telescope to explore some of science's biggest mysteries, like how the universe began and whether there's intelligent life beyond Earth."

"The residents of this tiny Appalachian town aren't connected in most modern ways, but over time, I observed a more profound connection they shared, bonded by the pursuit of scientific knowledge."

Wireless devices could interfere with the large telescope in the area ROBERTO SCHMIDT/AFP via Getty Images

While filming, Dellamaggiore noticed that living in the town started to change her own habits. She found herself using her phone less and appreciating the tranquility that came with being disconnected.

However, despite its charm, not all residents are thrilled with the restrictions. Many locals have begun voicing their frustrations, calling for greater access to modern technology. This growing demand is putting pressure on the town’s quiet zone status and raising questions about its future.

Dellamaggiore reflected on this shift, saying: "While I understand the desire for access to common-place technology, it's disheartening to think that one of the last intentional quiet zones may soon become a thing of the past. We should strive to preserve this unique place on Earth."