The Best Cryptid & Monster TV Shows To Watch In 2024

Monsters and Mysteries in America is a documentary series that explores the United States' most intriguing and terrifying cryptid sightings, delving into firsthand accounts from people who claim to have encountered these elusive entities. The series, which aired on Destination America from 2013 to 2015, doesn't center around a fixed cast. Instead, the true stars are the everyday Americans who come forward with their stories, supplemented by dramatic reenactments and commentary from local experts and researchers to give a regional context to these chilling tales.

The series earned its status as one of the best monster shows of all time by masterfully weaving regional folklore with the gripping, personal narratives of those who swear by their experiences with the unknown. Monsters and Mysteries in America stands apart with its focus on the cultural and historical aspects of cryptids, offering a coast-to-coast mosaic of America’s rich tapestry of monster lore. The blend of eerie dramatizations with authentic local color not only captivates viewers but also pays homage to the storytelling traditions that keep these legends alive, making it a must-watch for aficionados of the genre.

MonsterQuest is an American television series that delves into the enigmatic world of cryptids, creatures of folklore and myth whose existence is debated by researchers and enthusiasts alike. Airing on the History Channel from 2007 to 2010, the show doesn't rely on a regular cast of characters or stars. Instead, it features various experts, scientists, and eyewitnesses who lend their insights and experiences in each episode, guided by the steady narration of Stan Bernard. Episodes analyze evidence, explore sightings, and often include expeditions to hunt for signs of these elusive beings.

One of the show's distinguishing features is its scientific approach toward legendary creatures such as Bigfoot, the Loch Ness Monster, and the Chupacabra. MonsterQuest stands out in the cryptid TV genre by combining the thrill of the hunt with a level-headed look at what could be out there. It provides a comprehensive investigation of phenomena that invites skeptics and believers alike to consider the possibilities, making it a captivating show for any fan of the monster-hunting subgenre. The balance of mystery, investigation, and the occasional tantalizing piece of evidence positions MonsterQuest as a perennial favorite among the best cryptid-focused shows.

Destination Truth is a thrilling reality TV series that follows adventurer and cryptozoologist Josh Gates as he embarks on an international journey investigating sightings of elusive cryptids and supernatural creatures. Premiering on the Syfy channel in 2007, the show stands out in its genre thanks to Gates' charismatic leadership and the dynamic team of researchers and experts that accompany him on these daring expeditions. Gates' approachable personality and sense of humor bring an engaging dimension to the series, as he dives into the local legends and tests the stories of eyewitnesses from around the globe.

What sets Destination Truth apart as one of the best monster shows is its unique blend of travel adventure and paranormal investigation. Gates' globetrotting adventures take viewers off the beaten path, often to remote and untouched locations that are as captivating as the mysteries he seeks to uncover. This combination of exotic locales, cultural exploration, and genuine high-stakes investigative work gives audiences an immersive experience. The show's willingness to take risks and the palpable sense of adventure that pervades each episode secures its place as a trailblazer in cryptozoological entertainment.

Terror in the Woods is a haunting documentary series that dives into spine-chilling stories of encounters with the unknown in the vast wilderness. The show, which premiered on Destination America in 2017, does not feature a traditional cast; instead, it showcases real people sharing their personal, often harrowing, experiences with cryptids, ghosts, and other paranormal entities in forested areas. Dramatic reenactments bring these tales to life, thrusting the audience into the eerie and unexplained events that have left a lasting impact on those who've dared to venture into the woods.

The reason Terror in the Woods ranks among the best cryptid shows lies in its raw and visceral storytelling. By focusing on firsthand accounts, the series gives a voice to ordinary individuals with extraordinary stories, fostering a powerful connection between viewers and the narrators. The reenactments are crafted with care to preserve the authenticity of the original experiences, creating an atmosphere that is both immersive and unsettling. This approach, combined with the show's exploration of the primal fear of the unknown that forests can evoke, makes Terror in the Woods a standout in the realm of monster and mystery programming.

The X-Files is a seminal science fiction television series that explores the murky realm of the unexplained and the paranormal. Created by Chris Carter, the show debuted in 1993 and quickly garnered a cult following, continuing through eleven seasons and two feature films. It stars David Duchovny and Gillian Anderson as FBI agents Fox Mulder and Dana Scully, respectively, whose starkly contrasting worldviews fuel their investigations into the eponymous X-Files: cases steeped in unexplained phenomena, government conspiracy, and encounters with the unknown, including an array of cryptids and creatures.

Widely regarded as one of the best monster shows of all time, The X-Files captivates with its compelling blend of horror, drama, science fiction, and moments of levity. The show is celebrated for its masterful storytelling, crafting episodes that are both self-contained horror stories and part of a complex larger narrative about the search for truth in a world rife with secrecy. Agent Mulder's unwavering belief in the existence of extraterrestrial life and cryptids, juxtaposed with Agent Scully's skepticism and scientific perspective, provides a dynamic tension that engages audiences. The show's influence on pop culture, its impact on television as a medium, and its ability to continuously evolve the monster-of-the-week genre solidify The X-Files as an iconic fixture in the annals of supernatural television.

A newer series, 2021’s The Proof is Out There utilizes advanced technology and experts to render a verdict on supernatural phenomena. Each episode looks at several unexplained events caught on film in order to separate obvious hoaxes from those with a little bit more merit.