Embark on a journey through America’s highways and byways, where the allure of the open road is matched only by the quirky and unusual roadside attractions that dot the landscape. These unique stops, ranging from the whimsical to the downright bizarre, offer a delightful break from the monotony of long drives. This guide introduces you to some of the best roadside attractions, ensuring your road trip is anything but ordinary. Whether it’s giant sculptures, mysterious sites, or kitschy landmarks, these attractions add a dash of fun and a touch of the unexpected to your travels.
1. Carhenge, Alliance, Nebraska
Carhenge in Alliance, Nebraska, is an intriguing replica of England’s Stonehenge, but with a twist – it’s made entirely of vintage American cars. This peculiar monument, created by Jim Reinders, has become a beloved roadside attraction. The cars, arranged in a circle and painted gray to mimic the stones of Stonehenge, create a surreal landscape against the backdrop of Nebraska’s plains. The site also features additional car sculptures, adding to its artistic attraction. It’s a perfect stop for those who appreciate both the mystique of ancient sites and the charm of Americana.
2. The World’s Largest Ball of Twine, Cawker City, Kansas
In Cawker City, Kansas, lies the world’s largest ball of twine, an iconic symbol of American roadside attractions. Started by Frank Stoeber in 1953, the ball has grown to enormous proportions through community efforts and contributions from visitors. This quirky landmark represents the town’s pride and the collective spirit of the people who have added to its size over the years. Visitors are encouraged to contribute to the ball’s growth, making it a living piece of folk art.
3. Salvation Mountain, Niland, California
Salvation Mountain, near Niland, California, is a vibrant pilgrimage to one man’s devotion and artistic vision. Leonard Knight created this folk art monument covered in colorful biblical and inspirational messages. Made from adobe, straw, and thousands of gallons of lead-free paint, it uniquely expresses faith and creativity. With its bright colors and simple yet powerful messages, the mountain offers a visually stunning and thought-provoking experience. It’s a must-visit for art enthusiasts and those seeking a place of peace and positivity.
4. The Mystery Spot, Santa Cruz, California
The Mystery Spot in Santa Cruz, California, is where the laws of gravity and physics seem to be turned on their head. This circular area, about 150 feet in diameter, is famous for its visual illusions and gravity-defying phenomena. Whether it’s a natural occurrence or clever engineering, the Mystery Spot offers a fun and mind-boggling experience. The guided tours are entertaining and informative, making it an enjoyable stop for families and curious travelers.
5. Cadillac Ranch, Amarillo, Texas
Cadillac Ranch, an iconic art installation near Amarillo, Texas, is a striking tribute to the evolution of the Cadillac tail fin. Ten Cadillac cars are half-buried nose-first in the ground, with their tail fins pointing skyward. Created in 1974 by a group of artists known as The Ant Farm, the installation has become a symbol of American pop culture. Visitors are encouraged to leave their mark on the cars with spray paint, making it an interactive art piece. It’s a must-see for those interested in Americana and public art.
6. The Corn Palace, Mitchell, South Dakota
The Corn Palace in Mitchell, South Dakota, is a unique American landmark decorated annually with murals made entirely of corn and other grains. This tradition, dating back to 1892, celebrates South Dakota’s rich agricultural heritage. The designs are intricate and change yearly, making each visit a new experience. Inside, the palace is a multi-use center with exhibits on its history and the corn mural process. It’s a fascinating stop for those interested in folk art and agrarian traditions.
7. The Enchanted Highway, Regent, North Dakota
The Enchanted Highway in North Dakota offers a unique driving experience with its series of large scrap metal sculptures. Stretching 32 miles from Gladstone to Regent, these sculptures, including “Geese in Flight” and “The Tin Family,” are among the world’s largest. Created by local artist Gary Greff to revive his hometown of Regent, the sculptures turn the highway into an open-air art gallery. The drive itself is a peaceful journey through North Dakota’s picturesque landscapes.
8. The Jolly Green Giant Statue, Blue Earth, Minnesota
The Jolly Green Giant statue in Blue Earth, Minnesota, is a towering homage to the Green Giant vegetable company. This 55-foot-tall statue of the iconic green mascot is a popular photo stop for travelers. The statue, with its friendly smile and welcoming pose, embodies the spirit of fun that characterizes many American roadside attractions. Nearby, the Green Giant Museum allows you to explore the history of the company and its famous figures.
9. The Big Banana, Coffs Harbour, Australia
The Big Banana in Coffs Harbour, Australia, is one of the country’s most famous “big things” and a classic example of an oversized roadside attraction. Built in 1964 to highlight the area’s banana industry, the Big Banana has evolved into a fun park with attractions like a water park, ice skating rink, and a banana-themed educational tour. It’s a fun stop for families and anyone looking to add a bit of whimsy to their road trip.
10. The UFO Watchtower, Hooper, Colorado
The UFO Watchtower in Hooper, Colorado, offers a unique experience for those intrigued by the unknown. This observation platform and garden, adorned with alien-themed sculptures and a designated “vortex” area, provide a panoramic view of the San Luis Valley, known for its high number of UFO sightings. The site has become a gathering place for UFO enthusiasts and curious travelers. Camping is available, allowing visitors to stargaze and perhaps catch a glimpse of something unexplained.
The Bottom Line
These quirky and unusual stops enrich your road trip adventure, each adding a unique flavor to your journey. From monumental artworks to mysterious sites, these attractions break the monotony of long drives, offering delightful surprises around every bend. Watch for these hidden gems that make every journey memorable as you hit the road. Happy travels!
The post 10 Quirky Roadside Attractions You Can’t Miss first appeared on Pulse of Pride.
Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Larry Porges.
For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.
