16 of The Strangest Roadside Attraction in America
Prepare yourself for a journey through the curious, the bizarre, and the utterly extraordinary. Yes, this is a probe into the world of the strangest roadside attractions in America. Creativity and eccentricity meet in America, and the usual rules of logic and aesthetics politely step aside to make room for something a little…different. They’re the pop culture icons that decorate our highways and byways, these peculiar landmarks that pique our interest and tickle our imagination.
So, buckle up and adjust the rear-view mirrors because it is a wild ride!
Roswell, New Mexico
Roswell, New Mexico: where the extraterrestrial meets the terrestrial in an intriguing blend. Known for the infamous 1947 ‘UFO crash,’ Roswell lives up to its reputation as one of the strangest roadside attractions in America. Explore the UFO-shaped McDonald’s and the International UFO Museum and Research Center.
Trees of Mystery, California
Welcome to Trees of Mystery in the heart of California’s redwood forest! This roadside attraction showcases astonishingly twisted trees that defy logic, as if Mother Nature herself had a playful streak. Prepare to have your sense of reality turned upside down as you explore this weird and wonderful corner of the world. #Redwoods #WeirdNature
Carhenge, Nebraska
Carhenge, located in Nebraska, is a unique version of England’s Stonehenge. Instead of stone, vintage American cars are arranged in a circle and spray-painted gray. This whimsical roadside attraction, erected in 1987, showcases America’s ingenuity and eccentricity. It’s a must-see spectacle if you’re cruising through Nebraska. It’s Americana at its finest and most peculiar!
World’s Largest Rocking Chair, Missouri
Discover the World’s Largest Rocking Chair in Missouri, a colossal 42 feet tall and 20 feet wide. This magnificent masterpiece of leisure provides an idyllic sanctuary to unwind, kick back, and savor the simple pleasure of indulging in the Sunday paper. Located in the charming town of Fanning, it’s a quirky attraction that showcases American creativity and makes for a unique photo stop on any Missouri road trip.
Drinking Elephant, Fortville, IN
Fortville, IN, may appear to be an ordinary small town, but it holds the strangest roadside attraction in America: a Drinking Elephant! This eccentric roadside attraction captures the whimsical spirit of America’s heartlands and offers travelers a unique and unforgettable pit stop. With its trunk raised towards the sky, this peculiar pachyderm is a testament to the wonderfully weird charm found in unexpected places.
Wall Drug Store, South Dakota
Discover the Wall Drug Store in South Dakota, a unique destination that started as a drug store and evolved into a sprawling complex. From a simple marketing tactic of offering free ice water, it has become an iconic roadside attraction with a mix of shopping, tourist activities, and quirky exhibits. With its giant dinosaur, chapel, and unusual artifacts, this slice of Americana is both strange and captivating.
Lucy the Elephant, New Jersey
Lucy the Elephant in Margate, New Jersey, is a unique roadside attraction and architectural marvel. Built in 1881, this six-story tall elephant with a howdah on her back invites visitors to explore a quirky museum inside. Stepping into Lucy is like entering a whimsical time capsule, offering a glimpse into New Jersey’s past.
Cadillac Ranch, Texas
Welcome to the strangest roadside attraction in America: Cadillac Ranch! Located in Texas, this unique art installation features half-buried Cadillacs painted in a rainbow of colors. Created by local art hippies in 1974, visitors are invited to leave their mark on these graffiti-covered vehicles. Experience Texan-style whimsy at its finest!
World’s Largest Frying Pan, North Carolina
North Carolina is home to one of the “strangest roadside attractions in America” – the World’s Largest Frying Pan! Located in Rose Hill, this monumental skillet measures 15 feet in diameter and is used for the annual North Carolina Poultry Jubilee. It can cook enough chicken to feed a small army and has been a crowd magnet since 1963.
Prehistoric Gardens, Oregon
Prehistoric Gardens in Oregon is a quirky roadside attraction where you can come face-to-face with life-size dinosaur replicas. Nestled in a lush rainforest, this charming spot offers a unique blend of education and Americana. While the paint might not be historically accurate, it’s a must-visit for those seeking a taste of Jurassic Park in real life!
Headless Statue, Marineland, FL
Take advantage of the Headless Statue in Marineland, Florida! This peculiar roadside attraction is intentionally “decapitated” and offers a unique photo-op for travelers. It’s one of America’s strangest sights and worth a stop if you’re in the area.
Longaberger Basket Building, Ohio
Discover the Longaberger Basket Building in Ohio, a 7-story architectural wonder shaped like a giant picnic basket. This unconventional office building is one of the strangest roadside attractions in America, showcasing Ohio’s flair for the quirky and weird. Take advantage of this bizarre and must-see sight!
Bishop Castle, Colorado
Bishop Castle in Colorado is a remarkable display of individualism and architectural brilliance. Created by Jim Bishop over four decades, this whimsical castle features ornate towers, a dragon-shaped chimney, and a vertigo-inducing metallic bridge. A must-visit roadside attraction for those seeking a touch of wonder in Colorado.
Hat ‘n Boots Gas Station, Seattle, WA
Welcome to Hat ‘n Boots Gas Station in Seattle, WA, where the Wild West meets the Pacific Northwest. This quirky roadside attraction features a colossal cowboy hat serving as a cover for the service station and gargantuan cowboy boots that function as restrooms. Built in the 1950s, this offbeat charm continues to amuse and perplex passing motorists. Undeniably, it’s one of America’s strangest roadside attractions.
Hoot Owl Cafe, Los Angeles, CA
Margolies, John via Flickr
Discover the Hoot Owl Cafe, a diner like no other, nestled in the vibrant streets of Los Angeles. Shaped like a gargantuan owl with glowing eyes, this architectural marvel is America’s strangest roadside attraction. Experience dining inside an oversized bird at this unique spot!
World’s Largest Ball of Twine, Kansas
Kansas, the heartland of America, is home to the World’s Largest Ball of Twine. Started in 1953 by Frank Stoeber, this eccentric creation has grown to over 19,000 pounds and continues to expand. It stands as a testament to human persistence and ingenuity. Located in Cawker City, Kansas, it has become one of the strangest roadside attractions in America.
That’s America for you—a beautiful country filled with the grand, the beautiful, and the downright peculiar.
Sources: Ranker, YARDBARKER,
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