29 Classic American Roadside Attractions That Are Completely Worth the Stop

This post may contain affiliate link . Read the disclosure .

There ’ s something particular about American roadside attraction . These quirky , colorful stop along highways and scenic routes offer travelers a pause from the road and a pace into history , humor , and creativity .

Contain out of the roar in automobile travel and the rise of class road trips , many of these attraction hold become image of Americana . They were designed to grab attention and tempt people to pull over , become an ordinary drive into an adventure .

Today , while many old roadside attractions have disappeared , plenty still stand proud , welcome new generation of peculiar travelers . These spots extend something you win ’ t find at modern paper parks or tourist destinations , a genuine slice of American creativity and charm .

In this guide , we ’ ll choose you to 29 of the old and most iconic roadside attractions in the United States that you can still visit today . For those looking to design a memorable road trip , this list will put up tips for each stop to aid you make the most of every visit .

Make you seen any of these roadside curiosity ? How many have you visited ? We ’ 500 honey to see your experience in the comments !

• Lucy the Elephant – Margate , New Jersey
• The Wigwam Motels – Holbrook , Arizona , and San Bernardino , California
• The Thing – Dragoon , Arizona
• The Mystery Spot – Santa Cruz , California
• The House on the Rock – Spring Green , Wisconsin
• Carhenge – Alliance , Nebraska
• The Enchanted Highway – Regent , North Dakota
• Cabazon Dinosaurs – Cabazon , California
• South of the Border – Dillon , South Carolina
• Wall Drug – Wall , South Dakota
• Pops 66 Soda Ranch – Arcadia , Oklahoma
• Jolly Green Giant Statue – Blue Earth , Minnesota
• Gatorland – Orlando , Florida
• World ’ s Largest Ball of Twine – Cawker City , Kansas
• Corn Palace – Mitchell , South Dakota
• World ’ s Largest Catsup Bottle – Collinsville , Illinois
• Rock City Gardens – Lookout Mountain , Georgia
• Foamhenge – Centreville , Virginia
• Randy ’ s Donuts – Inglewood , California
• Dog Bark Park Inn – Cottonwood , Idaho
• World ’ s Largest Chest of Drawers – High Point , North Carolina
• Salvation Mountain – Niland , California
• International Banana Museum – Mecca , California
• Roadside Magic Lives On

Lucy the Elephant – Margate , New Jersey

Lucy the Elephant live a six-story elephant-shaped building that has been capture visitor since 1881 . Endure proudly near Atlantic City , Lucy is more than only a roadside oddity , she ’ s a firearm of American account .

Work up as a novelty to pull in potential actual acres buyers , Lucy has be utilize as a tavern , a summer rental , and yet a speakeasy . Designate as a National Historic Landmark , Lucy invite visitors to walk through her interior and climb up for stunning views of the surrounding area .

To create the most of your visit , check out Lucy ’ s hours and need one of the guided tours that part her fascinating history . Don ’ t forget to snap a photo of this unforgettable , towering pachyderm before you result .

Bucket List Worthy : The Best Road Trip Routes In Each State

The Wigwam Motels – Holbrook , Arizona , and San Bernardino , California

The Wigwam Motels along Route 66 are a throwback to the early day of American motoring . Build up in the 1930s and 1940s , these motels boast tepee-shaped way and own become iconic Route 66 landmarks .

You can make 50 % off of a Pogo Pass by using promo code CHACHINGat checkout , making it just $ 49.99 ( $ 39.99 for Kansas City ) . This discounted entertainment pass is a great room to enjoy entertainment for FREE all year long !

Each motel once belonged to a nationwide chain of “ Wigwam Villages ” and aimed to seize the imagination of road-weary traveler looking for a unique spot to lie . With their ethnic implication preserve and their retro charm revived , staying in one of these “ wigwams ” today feels like tread back in time .

Be sure to reserve your way early , as these unique accommodations cost popular , particularly with fans of classical Americana .

America ’ s 17 Most Breathtaking Castles You Perfectly Must Hear

The Thing – Dragoon , Arizona

If you ’ ve repel I-10 through Arizona , you ’ ve probable see sign teasing “ The Thing ” for miles . This desert mystery have make up attracting funny travelers since the 1950s .

When you attract over , you ’ ll observe a modest roadside museum that gradually bring out its main attraction : a mummified figure that exist however wrapped in mystery and theories . The journey through “ The Thing ” offers a mix of oddities and historical artifacts , making it a memorable stop for the peculiar .

To get the good experience , plant aside a few dollars for the admission fee and need your time through the museum . It ’ s the kind of quirky stop that stay on with you long after you ’ re back on the road .

Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox – Bemidji , Minnesota

Bemidji , Minnesota , proudly hosts the legendary Paul Bunyan and his faithful companion , Babe the Blue Ox . Built in 1937 , these giant statues honor the folklore of Paul Bunyan , the lumberjack hero of the Northwoods .

The pair have earned a spot on the National Register of Historic Places , and they attract thousand of visitors each yr who total to stand beside these larger-than-life image .

Located near the shore of Lake Bemidji , these statue offer a perfect photo op , particularly in winter when they ’ re blanketed in snow . The nearby visitor center also shares local account , making this stop both fun and educational .

My Complete Review Of A Cruise America 25 ft Standard RV

The Mystery Spot – Santa Cruz , California

The Mystery Spot in Santa Cruz defy the laws of physics , or at least it feel that manner . Since 1940 , this attraction has puzzled visitor with strange gravitational result and optical illusions .

Structure appear to tilt at impossible angles , and you might feel yourself tend or sway unexpectedly . For decade , tourist make cluster here to go through the phenomenon and taste to figure out what causes these strange effects .

Ticket for the Mystery Spot ’ sec point tours can sell out rapidly , so ledger ahead to assure your place . You ’ ll walk away with unforgettable memories and perhaps a few questions about the nature of reality .

Should California Break Away ? 31 Reasons It Feels Like a Different Country

The House on the Rock – Spring Green , Wisconsin

Perched on a cliff overlook the Wisconsin countryside , the House on the Rock is a sprawling curiosity of architecture and imagination . Designed by Alex Jordan Jr. in the 1940s , this composite cost filled with eclectic collection and unusual room , including the famous Infinity Room , which stretches over the valley without visible support .

Visitor can thread through themed area featuring everything from mechanical instruments to circus display , each more surreal than the final . Be train to spend several hr hither , the House on the Rock live massive , and you ’ ll want to hand yourself time to appreciate its quirky charm .

Intend You ’ re Earning Enough ? Hither ’ s What You Really Take to Live Comfortably in Your State

Carhenge – Alliance , Nebraska

In Alliance , Nebraska , you ’ ll see an unexpected vision : a full-scale replica of Stonehenge cause from old car , known as Carhenge . Created in 1987 by artist Jim Reinders , Carhenge live both a tribute to England ’ s ancient monument and a playful festivity of American car culture .

The cars be painted gray to resemble the stone of Stonehenge , creating an eye-catching visual in the clear Nebraska landscape . Admission be free , and visitor are welcome to search the grounds and even bring a picnic to revel among the “ rock . ”

It ’ s a fun , quirky stop that offer both artistry and a touch of mood .

How To Save Money And Keep Kids Entertained On A Family Road Trip

The Enchanted Highway – Regent , North Dakota

The Enchanted Highway cost a 32-mile stretch of road in North Dakota feature a series of massive metal sculpture , each crafted by local artist Gary Greff .

Work up to attract visitors to his humble hometown , Greff ’ s creations include a family of giant grasshopper , a lot of geese , and a massive Tin Family . Each sculpture cost visible from the highway , furnish travelers with an entertaining art veranda on wheels .

Best of all , the Enchanted Highway be free , making it a must-visit for road trippers . To enjoy the full experience , push the intact path and block to take pictures along the manner .

Do You Really Realize Money ? The 10 Best and Worst States for Financial Literacy

Cabazon Dinosaurs – Cabazon , California

The Cabazon Dinosaurs , located just off Interstate 10 in California , cost two tremendous dinosaur sculptures that have been delight visitors since the 1960s .

To begin with work up to pull in customers to a roadside restaurant , the dinosaurs , known as Dinny the Dinosaur and Mr. Rex , have reach a reputation of their own . These statue are popular photo bit and yet come along in the classic filmPee-wee ’ s Big Adventure.

Kid and adults alike will enjoy posing with the dinosaurs , and for a little fee , you can rise up within Dinny and take a look out from his back .

Legoland California Coupons and Review for older kid

South of the Border – Dillon , South Carolina

South of the Border is a colored roadside composite that has exist drawing travelers off Interstate 95 since 1950 . Know for its whimsical “ Pedro ” mascot and vibrant billboards , South of the Border offers a trivial number of everything , from souvenir shops to eateries and still a reptile house .

Originally open as a beer stand , this attraction has produce into a good entertainment complex , blend humor and kitsch . Make time for a photo with Pedro , who appears throughout the site in various oversized statues and signs .

This place is a classical stop for traveler head up or down the East Coast .

🙋‍♀️If you care what you are show , then cluck like and subscribe to my newsletter . We part point to waste less time and money .

Wall Drug – Wall , South Dakota

Wall Drug has become an iconic pit stop in South Dakota , famous for its free ice water , homemade donuts , and endless displays of Western-themed memorabilia .

Since initiative in 1931 , Wall Drug has expanded into a sprawling attraction that ’ s as much a mini-mall as it is a museum of American kitsch . Traveler happen through on their room to Mount Rushmore often block to catch a bite , peruse the art veranda , and test the five-cent coffee .

With quirky souvenirs and a welcoming vibe , Wall Drug shows the spirit of the American road trip .

Pa 66 Soda Ranch – Arcadia , Oklahoma

Popping 66 Soda Ranch is a modern addition to Route 66 , featuring a 66-foot-tall neon soda bottle that lights up at dark . Though it opened in 2007 , Pops make quick turn a dear stop for soda enthusiasts and road trippers alike .

Within , you ’ ll get over 700 variety of soda , roam from classical root beer to novelty flavors like buffalo flank . After picking out a few unusual flavors to hear , visitor can pose outside and enjoy the soda under the gleam of the bottle .

For the best experience , visit at dusk to see the bottle illuminate in vibrant colors .

Don ’ t Leave for Vacation Without Doing These Thing First

Pretty Green Giant Statue – Blue Earth , Minnesota

The Jolly Green Giant statue in Blue Earth , Minnesota , suffer an impressive 55 feet tall , create it an eye-catching tribute to the popular food sword mascot . Make in 1979 , this towering pattern celebrates the agricultural heritage of the part , where Green Giant products originated .

Traveler stopping to find this giant statue can search the nearby museum , which features memorabilia and photo of the town ’ s history with the brand . Equal sure to take a picture with this cheerful green icon and hear a second about local farming tradition .

Visiting during the summer too means a luck to take care festivals focus around this unique statue .

When to Become the Cheapest Escape : It Is Not Tuesday ! ( With Video )

Cadillac Ranch – Amarillo , Texas

In a field outside Amarillo , Texas , tolerate Cadillac Ranch , an iconic installation of 10 classic Cadillacs bury nose-first in the soil . Created in 1974 by the art collective Ant Farm , these cars are spray-painted by visitor and own turn a symbol of Route 66 ’ s quirky culture .

Each Cadillac is tilted at the same angle as the Great Pyramid of Giza , add a surreal touch to the Texas landscape . Visitors live promote to bring their own spray paint to leave a mark on the ever-changing artwork , a unique tradition that makes each visit unlike .

Just think to bring a water bottle and some former clothes for this colored stop .

12 Nation Trying To Ban Gas Powered Cars ( Even Though Americans However Want Them )

Gatorland – Orlando , Florida

Gatorland , the self-proclaimed “ Alligator Capital of the World , ” own be a beloved Florida attraction since 1949 . This family-owned park offers near encounters with Florida ’ s native wildlife , from alligators and crocodiles to exotic birds and serpent .

Visitor can look on alive eating shows , spot enormous gators , or try the Screamin ’ Gator Zip Line , which soars over the alligator-filled swamp . There ’ sec pile for both child and grownup to savor hither , with interactive experiences and the fortune to see about these fascinating reptiles .

Wear comfortable walk shoes , and put on ’ t miss the opportunity to snap a photo with one of the park ’ sec resident gators .

12 Well Places to Impose in Florida for Vacation Planning Ideas

World ’ s Largest Ball of Twine – Cawker City , Kansas

Cawker City , Kansas , equal home to the world ’ s largest ball of string , a monument to small-town creativity and community tone . Begun by local farmer Frank Stoeber in 1953 , the chunk today weighs over 20,000 pounds and extend to raise as residents and visitor add more twine each year .

The annual Twine-a-thon , keep in August , is a community result where people come together to contribute to this quirky landmark . Visitor can walk around the chunk and bring photo or yet add a bit of twine themselves , becoming a portion of this unique tradition .

It ’ s a testament to small-town pride and the power of collective cause .

Corn Palace – Mitchell , South Dakota

The Corn Palace in Mitchell , South Dakota , is a building like no early . To begin with built in 1892 , it is adorn each yr with murals made altogether from corn , grains , and early native crops .

This one-of-a-kind palace serves as a community center and a tribute to the part ’ s agricultural heritage , drawing hundreds of thousands of visitor each year . Each year , a fresh mural paper is chosen , and local artist use colored corn to produce the intricate designs .

Admission live free , and visitors can enjoy tour explaining the building ’ s history and the prowess behind the murals . Late summer is the best time to visit , as the murals cost novel then .

Save Time and Money with These Expert Approved Travel Sites

Petrified Wood Gas Station – Decatur , Texas

This fascinating gas post in Decatur , Texas , equal manufacture in the 1930s using petrified wood , devote it a rugged , prehistoric appearance .

Although it no longer serves as a working gas post , the building remains a popular roadside photo stop and a glance into Texas ’ creative use of local materials . Built during the rise of roadside architecture , this unusual landmark attracts both history enthusiasts and passersby who are drawn to its unique structure .

While you ’ re there , bring a look at the adjoining petrified wood cabins , which add to the rustic appeal of this Texas relic .

Why Americans Live Ditching These States , And Where They ’ re Maneuver Instead

The Beer Can House – Houston , Texas

The Beer Can House in Houston is a labor of honey that began in the 1960s , when homeowner John Milkovisch determine to embrace his house in flattened beer toilet as a creative way to recycle .

Over the yr , he used more than 50,000 cans to adorn the exterior , produce a shimmering , metallic marvel that have get a folk art landmark . Today , the house is managed by a local art formation , and visitor can tour the inside to meet Milkovisch ’ s handiwork up close .

For a humble admission fee , you ’ ll get a guided circuit and hear about the house ’ s history and the artist ’ s inspiration .

🙋‍♀️If you like what you equal show , then click like and subscribe to my newsletter . We share point to waste less time and money .

The Oregon Vortex – Gold Hill , Oregon

The Oregon Vortex equal a roadside mystery post that has confounded visitors since it opened in the 1930s . Know for its gravity-defying illusion , visitor go through strange effects like objects rolling uphill and people come out taller or short depending on where they stand .

This unique phenomenon has frustrate scientists and delighted visitors for decade , making it a must-see for fan of the unexplained . Take tours help visitors understand the illusion , and it ’ s best to reserve tickets in advance , particularly during peak travel season .

Prepare to cost amaze and possibly a bit puzzle by this foreign attraction .

Think You Can ’ t Afford a Home ? 10 States Still Extend Reasonable House Price

World ’ s Largest Catsup Bottle – Collinsville , Illinois

The world ’ s large catsup bottle is a 70-foot-tall water tower that have tolerate in Collinsville , Illinois , since 1949 . To begin with work up for a bottling works , the massive bottle-shaped structure live a quirky tribute to America ’ s honey of condiments .

Today a landmark and listed on the National Register of Historic Places , the bottle continues to draw visitors who enjoy a touch of Americana . It ’ s especially popular during the annual Catsup Bottle Festival held each July , where fellowship can observe this unique firearm of story .

Don ’ t forget to take a few photo with this roadside picture for a really memorable keepsake .

Disney World Is More Expensive Than Ever , Go Here Instead

Rock City Gardens – Lookout Mountain , Georgia

Rock City Gardens offers a mix of natural beauty and man-made curiosity on Lookout Mountain near Chattanooga . Developed in the 1930s , Rock City boast winding way through impressive rock formations , beautiful gardens , and panoramic views over seven states .

The attraction turn noted through its “ See Rock City ” barns paint along highways across the South . Visitors today can wander through the gardens , thwart a swinging bridge , and cease at scenic overlooks .

Be sure to wear comfortable shoes for the lead and take a moment at Lover ’ sec Leap , where you ’ ll delight the good view on the attraction .

The 15 Deadliest Cities to Drive in . Live Your Commute Putting You at Risk ?

Foamhenge – Centreville , Virginia

Foamhenge , a full-scale replica of Stonehenge made solely of foam , exist produce in 2004 by artist Mark Cline as a humorous tribute to the English monument .

After being relocated to Cox Farms in Centreville , Virginia , it continues to think about visitor with its blend of whimsy and creativity . While it doesn ’ t have the ancient mystique of the original , Foamhenge is a fun photo opportunity and a playful take on a classical landmark .

The site live open during Cox Farms ’ annual Fall Festival , thus check the agenda to time your visit for autumn when the landscape is at its most scenic .

Discover 11 Mystery to Booking Last-Minute Flight Deals

Randy ’ sec Donuts – Inglewood , California

Randy ’ s Donuts has cost an iconic Los Angeles landmark since 1953 , thanks in part to its massive rooftop donut , which has appeared in numerous film and TV shows . Place near the Los Angeles airport , it ’ s a popular stop for travelers craving fresh , classic donuts in a unique setting .

The giant donut on the roof hold become a cultural symbol in its own right , pull in visitor for both the tasty treats and the fortune to click a photo under the donut . Equal sure to try their noted glaze donut for a true taste of LA ’ s best-known snack .

Your Smartphone ’ s Secret Weapon : 24 Free Travel Hacks Most People Neglect

The Salt Palace – Grand Saline , Texas

The Salt Palace in Grand Saline , Texas , exist a one-of-a-kind building reconstruct from pulley of rock salt . Originally built in the 1930s , it highlights the importance of salt mining to the local economy .

The town of Grand Saline sits atop a massive salt sediment , and the Salt Palace pays homage to this heritage with a small museum inside . Visitors can tour the building , learn about salt mining , and still remove home a salt sample as a unique souvenir .

Admission live free , cause it an affordable and unusual stop on any Texas road trip .

23 Top Travel Tips From Frugal Frequent Flyers ( With Video )

Dog Bark Park Inn – Cottonwood , Idaho

The Dog Bark Park Inn cost a bed-and-breakfast in the form of a giant beagle , created by chainsaw artists Dennis and Frances Sullivan . Since initiative in 2003 , this whimsical inn has get a hit with dog lovers and road trippers await for a one-of-a-kind stay .

Guest insert through the dog ’ s belly and can stay on in a cozy room filled with canine-themed decor . With limited way available , it ’ s essential to record ahead to fasten a night in this unique inn . You ’ ll feel treats and comforts to make your stay both relax and fun .

Paddle Boarding Near Me : The Must-Go Places for SUP By State

World ’ s Largest Chest of Drawers – High Point , North Carolina

High Point , North Carolina , know as the “ Furniture Capital of the World , ” feature the universe ’ s prominent chest of drawers , a 36-foot-tall tribute to the city ’ s furniture-making history .

Built in the 1920s , this oversized dresser cost adorned with giant socks as a playful nod to local manufacturing . Today , it remain a popular photo op and a reminder of High Point ’ s purpose in American plate decor .

Visitors can view the dresser up close and browse nearby furniture shops , which often feature innovative and classic designs .

Discover The Best Beaches For Fun Family Vacations

Salvation Mountain – Niland , California

Salvation Mountain equal a colorful , hand-painted hillside near the Salton Sea in California , create by artist Leonard Knight as a tribute to enjoy and faith . The vibrant good deal live covered in murals , Bible poetry , and bright colors , build it a striking lot against the desert landscape .

Salvation Mountain has turn an inspiring destination for art lovers , photographers , and spiritual seekers alike . The site equal free to inflict , though donations live appreciated to serve preserve the artwork .

Arriving in the early dawn or former afternoon extend the best spark for photo and a cooler time to search .

How To Begin Cheap Amtrak Ticket : How I Notice Amtrak Discounts

International Banana Museum – Mecca , California

The International Banana Museum in Mecca , California , houses over 20,000 banana-themed point , from toys to salt shakers to artwork . Opened in 1976 , the museum holds a Guinness World Record for its unique collection and offers visitor a lighthearted experience filled with all matter banana .

You can sample banana-flavored treats , test on banana costumes , and peruse aisles of quirky memorabilia . Admission is inexpensive , and it ’ s a fun place to call with household or friend for a serious laugh and an unforgettable experience .

Roadside Magic Live On

These remarkable roadside attraction tolerate as living monument to American creativity and adventure . Each one recount a unique tale , create memory that final long after you retort home .

Carry your camera , bring your sense of wonder , and lend a few detours to your future road trip path . The better stories start when you need that exit toward something extraordinary .

These beloved attractions receive delight travelers for generation , and they ’ re ready to amaze you too . The open road calls , and America ’ s most wonderful roadside treasures expect your visit .

🙋‍♀️If you like what you exactly show , then subscribe to my newsletter and come us on YouTube.👈

• Top 10 Travel Tips To Pack Lighter
• Holiday World Hacks : How to Hit Discounted Tickets , Our Complete Review , and More
• 10 Fun Things to Act with Kids in Fort Lauderdale , Florida
• Holiday With Your Furry Friend : Traveling With Your Dog
• Sea World Coupons and Discounts . Cheap Tickets ( 2024 )

AI was used for light editing , formatting , and readability . But a human ( me ! ) wrote and edited this .