Top 20 Quirky Roadside Attractions Across America
Giant balls of twine, towering dinosaurs, and mysterious houses that defy gravity—America has them all! We’re going to zip through the country’s most unique roadside stops that are sure to make you do a double-take.
Join us as we uncover these hidden gems that turn an ordinary drive into a parade of the strange and spectacular. Ready to find out about these wild wonders? Let’s hit the road!
1. The Corn Palace, SD
Have you seen a palace made of corn? In Mitchell, South Dakota, you can visit an amazing structure called the Corn Palace. It’s not just any building; it’s a masterpiece adorned with murals created entirely from corn and other grains.
These works of art aren’t permanent—they change annually, so every trip gives you something new to see. This tradition has been going strong since 1892, celebrating South Dakota’s rich agricultural spirit.
2. The Blue Whale of Catoosa, OK
Have you ever seen a blue whale in Oklahoma? In Catoosa, your eyes aren’t playing tricks on you! Visit The Blue Whale of Catoosa, a delightful roadside novelty that’s been charming travelers since the 1970s.
Crafted with love as an unusual anniversary gift, this giant whale has become a beloved symbol on historic Route 66. Smiling for the camera is a must as you explore the open-mouthed entrance of this maritime marvel.
3. Carhenge, NE
Have you heard about Nebraska’s own Stonehenge, but with cars? In the open plains of Alliance, you can find the remarkable Carhenge. This funky monument is a creative twist on the ancient Stonehenge, crafted from 39 vintage cars painted gray.
Constructed in 1987, Carhenge is a loving tribute by Jim Reinders to his father. It quickly turned into one of Nebraska’s most whimsical sites.
4. The Jolly Green Giant Statue, MN
Have you ever seen a giant apart from in fairy tales? In Blue Earth, Minnesota, you can gaze up at the impressive Jolly Green Giant statue. This towering figure stands at a whopping 55.5 feet tall.
This larger-than-life attraction has been charming visitors since 1979 and stands proudly as a beacon for all who love quirky sites.
5. The World’s Largest Catsup Bottle, IL
Have you ever seen a 170-foot-tall bottle of catsup? In Collinsville, Illinois, you can visit The World’s Largest Catsup Bottle, a towering roadside wonder that’s hard to miss. This huge bottle isn’t for holding ketchup—it was built in 1949 as a water tower!
It’s such a standout sight that it made the National Register of Historic Places. If you love snapping unique photos or just enjoy seeing something out of the ordinary, this quirky landmark is a must-see.
6. The Fremont Troll, WA
If you’re roaming through Seattle, don’t miss the chance to meet a local celebrity tucked under the Aurora Bridge. This isn’t your average bridge resident — it’s the Fremont Troll, an enormous sculpture waiting to greet you with a car in hand.
Crafted with steel and concrete, this public art piece pops out with an eye that gleams in the sunlight. Community love turned an overlooked space into a creative symbol that captures the playful spirit of the Fremont neighborhood.
7. Foamhenge, VA
Just when you think you’ve seen it all, along comes Foamhenge in Virginia. Imagine the iconic Stonehenge, but crafted entirely from foam. This peculiar attraction is a life-size replica of the historic site in England, but with a twist—a much lighter one!
It’s the brainchild of artist Mark Cline, known for his imaginative and offbeat works dotting Virginia’s landscape.
8. The SPAM Museum, MN
Nestled in the heart of Minnesota, the SPAM Museum is a vibrant homage to America’s favorite canned meat. Here, you’ll find memorabilia, interactive exhibits, and vintage advertising – all celebrating SPAM’s unique place in our culture and history. Take part in activities, games, and more while soaking up fun facts about this iconic brand. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a bit of offbeat fun, this museum is sure to add flavor to your road trip!
9. The Thing, AZ
Did you know that deep in the Arizona desert hides an attraction shrouded in mystery? The Thing is an intriguing exhibit waiting for the curious at heart. A desert gem, it’s nestled along Interstate 10, where it tempts travelers with the promise of uncovering its secrets.
It features a supposed mummified mother and child, but it’s so much more than that. Picture walls lined with fascinating historical artifacts and oddities that tell a story all their own.
10. The Garden of One Thousand Buddhas, MT
The Garden of One Thousand Buddhas is a place of serenity where you can stroll among hand-carved statues and let the hustle and bustle fade away. Nestled in Montana’s Jocko Valley, it’s a cultural jewel where art and spiritual reflection intertwine.
11. The Mystery Spot, CA
Discover a place in Santa Cruz where the usual rules don’t seem to apply—the Mystery Spot! Here, you’ll be puzzled as balls roll uphill and people appear taller or shorter depending on where they stand. Opened in 1940, this baffling attraction will have you questioning gravity itself.
12. Wall Drug, SD
Are you on the hunt for something unique on your road trip? Let’s talk about Wall Drug in South Dakota, a spot you can’t miss. Imagine sipping on 5-cent coffee, surrounded by eclectic shopping and fun photo ops—this place has it all.
Need a break? Free ice water is a promise they’ve kept since 1931. You can roam around a maze of treasure-filled nooks—don’t forget to check out the dinosaur!
13. Lucy the Elephant, NJ
Have you met Lucy the Elephant? Standing tall in Margate, New Jersey, Lucy isn’t your average animal; she’s a six-story building shaped like an elephant! Built in 1881, Lucy has a past as colorful as her appearance.
She’s been a home, a tavern, and now she’s a can’t-miss attraction just waiting for your visit. Imagine climbing up to her howdah—that’s the carriage on an elephant’s back—where you’d soak in panoramic ocean views.
Restored and loved, Lucy has been voted as America’s top roadside attraction, a proud piece of history that brings smiles to everyone who stops by.
14. The World’s Largest Chest of Drawers, NC
Discover a unique slice of Americana at the World’s Largest Chest of Drawers located in High Point, North Carolina. This isn’t just any furniture piece; it’s an 85-foot tall architectural wonder meant to celebrate the area’s history as the Furniture Capital of the World.
15. The Enchanted Highway, ND
Have you heard about The Enchanted Highway in North Dakota? This unique stretch turns a simple drive into an open-air gallery. As you travel the 32-mile route, you’re greeted by some of the world’s largest scrap metal sculptures.
Picture soaring geese, huge grasshoppers, and towering fishermen; each piece more surprising than the last. It’s not just about size; these artworks tell the story of the area!
16. The Paper House, MA
In Massachusetts, there’s a unique attraction made entirely of paper! Have you ever heard of a house constructed from newspapers? At The Paper House, you can actually see walls crafted from this everyday material. Curious about sitting on paper furniture? Here’s your chance!
17. Cadillac Ranch, TX
Cadillac Ranch isn’t your average attraction. Planted firmly in a Texas field, these ten graffiti-covered Cadillacs are a sight to behold! Created in 1974, it’s a true piece of Americana, inspiring creativity and a sense of wonder.
Each car, half-buried nose-first, tells its own vibrant story against the backdrop of the vast Texas sky. Don’t just hear about it—grab your spray can and leave your mark on this ever-changing canvas.
18. The Cabazon Dinosaurs, CA
Have you ever wanted to see dinosaurs up close? In Cabazon, California, towering giants wait to amaze you. The Cabazon Dinosaurs are a must-see, featuring life-sized prehistoric creatures.
Picture yourself looking up at a massive T. Rex or strolling under the belly of a huge Brontosaurus! Perfect for every dino lover, these big concrete beasts are a prime spot for cool photos.
19. Salvation Mountain, CA
Discover a colorful burst of creativity in California’s desert at Salvation Mountain. Crafted with care by local resident Leonard Knight, this vibrant landmark stands as a vivid mosaic of paint and adobe, proclaiming a simple message of love.
Whether you seek inspiration or just a spectacular photo op, the mountain’s brilliant hues and heartfelt artistry won’t disappoint. Flowers, trees, waterfalls, and Bible verses captured in every brush stroke make for a unique visual feast.
20. The World’s Largest Ball of Twine, KS
Have you ever seen a ball of twine bigger than your car? Kansas holds a record for creating something truly unique: the World’s Largest Ball of Twine in Cawker City.
Started by a farmer in 1953, this gigantic twine ball has grown to over 8 million feet of twine. Every year, people from all over add more to this marvel during the annual “Twine-a-thon.” You can even add your own piece to the ball and be a part of history.
