Back in Time Today
Explore the charm and nostalgia of America’s oldest roadside attractions. These iconic landmarks offer a glimpse into the quirky and creative spirit of the past, inviting travelers to step back in time and experience a unique blend of history and culture.
Lucy the Elephant
Standing tall in Margate, New Jersey, Lucy the Elephant is a six-story architectural marvel first constructed in 1881. This National Historic Landmark offers visitors a unique opportunity to tour inside an elephant-shaped building.
The structure was originally built as a marketing gimmick by James Lafferty to attract potential real estate buyers. Today, Lucy serves as a museum, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Its rich history and whimsical appearance make it a must-visit destination for those exploring America’s quirky roadside attractions.
The Wigwam Motels
The Wigwam Motels, located along the iconic Route 66, offer a nostalgic glimpse into the mid-20th century roadside aesthetics. Originally built in the 1930s and 1940s, these motels feature individual rooms designed as concrete teepees.
Travelers can experience a unique overnight stay reminiscent of a bygone era. Each Wigwam Motel is equipped with vintage cars parked outside, adding to its retro charm.
These motels are a testament to the creativity and innovation of early American tourism, providing a distinctive lodging experience for road trippers.
The Blue Whale of Catoosa
The Blue Whale of Catoosa in Oklahoma is a beloved icon along Route 66, known for its bright blue color and friendly smile. Built in the early 1970s by Hugh Davis as an anniversary gift for his wife, the 80-foot-long whale quickly became a popular roadside stop.
Visitors are welcome to picnic, explore, or just enjoy the whimsical ambiance of this unique attraction.
The whale’s charm lies in its simplicity, providing a delightful pause for travelers journeying down the historic highway.
South of the Border
South of the Border, nestled in Dillon, South Carolina, is a kitschy roadside attraction and rest stop known for its colorful signs and playful atmosphere. Founded in 1949 by Alan Schafer, this destination features a mix of restaurants, shops, and amusements.
Its mascot, Pedro, and array of neon signs have become iconic symbols for travelers heading along Interstate 95.
Offering a quirky blend of cultural motifs, South of the Border provides a light-hearted break for those on long road trips.
Wall Drug
Wall Drug in Wall, South Dakota, has become a legendary stop for travelers heading toward the Badlands. What started as a small pharmacy in 1931 is now a sprawling complex of shops, eateries, and attractions.
Known for its free ice water and five-cent coffee, Wall Drug offers a taste of Western hospitality. Visitors can wander through the themed shops, enjoy homemade donuts, or marvel at the large cowboy statues.
This iconic stop continues to delight travelers with its unique blend of history and entertainment.
The World’s Largest Ball of Twine
Cawker City, Kansas, proudly boasts the World’s Largest Ball of Twine, a quirky testament to community spirit and creativity. Started by Frank Stoeber in 1953, the ball has grown through continuous additions, now weighing over 20,000 pounds.
Visitors are encouraged to add their own twine, contributing to the ever-growing monument. The site hosts the annual Twine-a-thon, celebrating this unique landmark.
This giant ball of twine symbolizes the ingenuity of small-town America, providing a fun and interactive experience for those exploring the heartland.
Carhenge
Carhenge, located in Alliance, Nebraska, is a whimsical replica of England’s Stonehenge, constructed entirely from vintage cars. Created by Jim Reinders in 1987 as a tribute to his late father, the site features cars arranged in a circle and painted gray.
Visitors can explore the site, taking in the creative reuse of automobiles to craft an iconic structure. Carhenge offers an artistic nod to both ancient history and modern ingenuity.
Its playful interpretation of a historic monument makes it a delightful stop for travelers seeking art and adventure.
The Dinosaur Park
Perched on a hill in Rapid City, South Dakota, the Dinosaur Park features life-sized concrete dinosaur sculptures overlooking the city. Constructed during the Great Depression in 1936, this park was part of a public works project aimed at boosting local tourism.
Visitors can walk among the giant dinosaurs, enjoy panoramic views, and immerse themselves in the prehistoric atmosphere. The park remains a beloved local attraction, capturing the imagination of both young and old.
Its enduring appeal lies in its blend of natural beauty and playful sculpture.
The Corn Palace
The Corn Palace, situated in Mitchell, South Dakota, is a unique multi-purpose arena adorned with murals made entirely of corn and grains. First constructed in 1892, the palace celebrates the region’s agricultural heritage.
Each year, the murals are redesigned, showcasing new themes and intricate patterns. Visitors can tour the building, attend events, or marvel at the artistry of the corn decorations.
The Corn Palace remains a testament to the creativity and resourcefulness of South Dakota’s farming community, offering a colorful spectacle for tourists.
The Giant Rocking Chair
Casey, Illinois, is home to the World’s Largest Rocking Chair, standing at an impressive 56 feet tall. Built in 2015, this massive piece of furniture has become an iconic roadside attraction.
Visitors are drawn to this playful landmark, often taking photos to commemorate their visit. The chair is part of Casey’s collection of “big things,” which includes other oversized items.
This giant rocking chair embodies the town’s whimsical spirit, providing a memorable stop for those traveling through the Midwest.
The Shoe Tree
The Shoe Tree along Highway 50 in Nevada is a curious sight, adorned with hundreds of shoes hanging from its branches. This quirky landmark has become a tradition for travelers, who toss their shoes onto the tree as a symbol of their journey.
The exact origins of the Shoe Tree are unclear, but it stands as a testament to the spontaneous creativity of road trippers. Visitors often stop to add their own footwear, contributing to the ever-growing collection.
The Shoe Tree offers a unique and interactive roadside experience.
Salvation Mountain
Salvation Mountain in Niland, California, is a vibrant and colorful monument dedicated to the message of love. Created by artist Leonard Knight over several decades, the mountain is adorned with Bible verses and bright, whimsical designs.
Visitors are welcome to explore the site, taking in the artistic and spiritual expression. The mountain’s unique aesthetic and heartfelt message have made it a popular pilgrimage spot.
Salvation Mountain serves as a testament to one man’s dedication and creativity, offering inspiration to all who visit.
The Enchanted Highway
The Enchanted Highway in North Dakota is a captivating drive featuring a series of large metal sculptures created by artist Gary Greff. These whimsical installations include giant grasshoppers, geese in flight, and more, each with an accompanying pull-off area for visitors.
The sculptures, spaced along a 32-mile stretch, offer a delightful visual journey for travelers. Gary Greff’s vision was to revitalize the area and attract tourists through these imaginative works.
The Enchanted Highway provides an enchanting and artistic roadside experience, inviting travelers to explore creativity on a grand scale.
The Mystery Spot
The Mystery Spot in Santa Cruz, California, has intrigued visitors since its discovery in 1939. Known for its gravitational anomalies, this attraction features a tilted cabin where the laws of physics appear to be defied.
Guided tours offer guests an engaging experience, filled with optical illusions and scientific curiosity. The Mystery Spot continues to captivate visitors with its baffling phenomena.
Its blend of mystery and entertainment makes it a compelling stop for those intrigued by the unexplained.
Foamhenge
Nestled in Natural Bridge, Virginia, Foamhenge is a full-scale replica of England’s Stonehenge, constructed entirely from foam blocks. Created by artist Mark Cline in 2004, this whimsical attraction offers an imaginative twist on an ancient monument.
Visitors can explore the site, marveling at the attention to detail and playful interpretation. Foamhenge provides an unexpected and delightful experience for those interested in both history and art.
Its unique construction and humorous approach make it a must-see for travelers seeking roadside oddities.
The Fremont Troll
Under the Aurora Bridge in Seattle, Washington, resides the Fremont Troll, a massive sculpture clutching a real Volkswagen Beetle. Created in 1990 by a team of local artists, this quirky landmark celebrates the creative spirit of the community.
Visitors are drawn to the troll’s imposing presence, often climbing on it for memorable photos. The sculpture has become an iconic symbol of Seattle’s unique and artistic culture.
The Fremont Troll offers a playful and interactive experience for those exploring the city’s intriguing attractions.
Cadillac Ranch
Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas, features a row of half-buried Cadillacs, nose-first in the ground. Created by the art group Ant Farm in 1974, this installation represents the evolution of the Cadillac tail fin.
Visitors are encouraged to add their own graffiti, making it an ever-changing canvas of self-expression. The site has become a favorite stop for travelers and art enthusiasts alike.
Cadillac Ranch’s blend of interactive art and roadside allure continues to capture the imagination of those passing through.
The Jolly Green Giant
In Blue Earth, Minnesota, stands the towering statue of the Jolly Green Giant, a cheerful figure from marketing history. Erected in 1979, the statue stands at 55 feet tall, welcoming visitors with his iconic smile.
The Green Giant represents the town’s agricultural ties and provides a lively photo opportunity for passersby. Visitors can explore the surrounding park, enjoying a picnic or leisurely stroll.
This emblematic statue offers a nostalgic nod to an era of whimsical advertising, making it a cherished landmark.
The Paul Bunyan and Babe Statues
The statues of Paul Bunyan and his blue ox, Babe, in Bemidji, Minnesota, stand as iconic symbols of American folklore. Erected in 1937, these larger-than-life figures draw visitors interested in tall tales and history.
Visitors pose with the statues, immortalizing their visit to this historic site. The statues stand near Lake Bemidji, offering scenic views and a connection to the region’s cultural heritage.
These monuments to legendary characters provide a fun and engaging stop for those exploring Minnesota’s rich folklore.
The Uniroyal Giant Tire
Standing alongside Interstate 94 near Detroit, Michigan, the Uniroyal Giant Tire is a monumental structure originally built as a Ferris wheel for the 1964 New York World’s Fair. Now a roadside marvel, it represents automotive history and innovation.
Visitors can’t ride it, but the tire’s grandeur captures the industrial spirit of the region. This landmark has become a symbol of Detroit’s automotive legacy.
The Uniroyal Giant Tire offers a glimpse into the past, attracting those fascinated by engineering and design.