Americans have a long tradition of traversing the country, connecting with its people, and taking in some of its strangest attractions. While walking the boundaries of well-traversed state highways and unexpected rural roads, one can stumble across projects steeped in nostalgia, artistry, kookiness, and sometimes unexplainable oddness. Here, we’ll look at some of the strangest roadside attractions in each of the American states, sure to keep you wanting to explore more.
Alabama: Unclaimed Baggage Center
Nestled in the town of Scottsboro in North Alabama, the Unclaimed Baggage Center is a place like no other. After unclaimed luggage has been searched for its rightful owner, it is taken to the UBC where it’s re-purposed and reused. The Unclaimed Baggage Center is filled to the brim with all sorts of interesting finds from treasures, artifacts, and clothing to jewelry, books, electronics and appliances.
Alaska: Portage Glacier
One of the most mesmerizing and awe-inspiring attractions in Alaska (and perhaps the entire United States), glaciers are constantly moving and changing and Portage Glacier, located near Seward, is no exception. Though far from the largest in the state, it is one of the most accessible and visible glaciers, viewable from an easy boat tour of the lake and several trails on the bank of the lake that lead to it. The seemingly beating heart of the glacial lake makes this an experience to remember, and an absolute must-see.
Arizona: Mystery Castle
Few sites in Arizona are quite like Mystery Castle, the site of 18 rooms constructed out of a combination of stone, mud, beer cans and windows throughout the 1930s and 1940s by Boyce Luther Gulley for his beloved daughter, Mary Lou. This eclectic castle also features secret passages, underground courts and even a chapel, making it one of the most unique sites in the entire state.
Arkansas: Toad Suck Daze
Toad Suck Daze is an interesting, oft-overlooked attraction located in Conway, Arkansas. Since 1985, Toad Suck Daze has been a 3-day event held each spring, featuring live music, street vendors and fun activities for guests of all ages. The festival was originally created to celebrate local businesses, but now boasts a variety of activities and entertainment options, including a tug-of-war tournament, carnival rides, arts and crafts, and a chili cook-off.
California: The International Banana Museum
The International Banana Museum, located in Mecca, California, is exactly what you would expect – a museum dedicated entirely to bananas. Dubbed the “most outrageous Museum in the World,” it houses the largest collection of banana souvenirs, artifacts, knickknacks, and memorabilia in the world. With 22,000 banana-inspired items, there’s something to delight even the most jaded traveler.
Colorado: Garden of the Gods
The Garden of the Gods, located in Colorado Springs, Colorado, is a must-see attraction for anyone looking to take in one of the most beautiful and awe-inspiring landscapes in the United States. With natural sandstone formations and unique rock formations, Garden of the Gods offers stunning views and plenty of breathtaking views of the entire area.
Connecticut: Gillette Castle State Park
Perched high above the Connecticut River Valley, Gillette Castle State Park is a unique attraction worth exploring. Built by the eccentric actor, William Hooker Gillette, the 24-room castle-like mansion was constructed over the course of two decades in the early 1900s. Don’t forget to explore the trails and woods surrounding the estate, as they offer some of the most beautiful sights in the state.
Delaware: Dover International Speedway
Located in Dover, Delaware, the Dover International Speedway is the largest single-day sporting event in the country and is home to the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series. With a seating capacity of over 140,000, this one-mile concrete oval track honors some of the greatest NASCAR drivers, both past and present. The facility also features a fan clubhouse, on-site accommodation and a souvenir shop, making this a great destination for racing fans.
Florida: Fantasy of Flight
Fantasy of Flight, located in Polk City, Florida, is an aviation-themed attraction featuring an astonishing collection of over 130 vintage and current airplanes, helicopters, warbirds and other flying machines. The collection is accompanied by a plethora of interactive displays, flight simulators, and activities designed to teach visitors more about the history of aviation.
Georgia: Stone Mountain
Stone Mountain is one of the most breathtaking sights in the entire United States. Located in Georgia, it stands at 1,686 feet tall and is regarded by many as the eighth wonder of the world. Stone Mountain Park offers a variety of outdoor activities, such as nature trails, golf courses, a skylift, and a train ride. In addition to being a natural wonder, Stone Mountain is also home to the largest bas-relief sculpture in the world, which was carved in honor of Confederate leaders.
Hawaii: Kilauea Volcano
Kilauea Volcano on the Big Island of Hawai’i is a volcano like no other. It has been erupting continuously since 1983 and the current eruption is its most powerful one yet. It’s the world’s most voluminous lava-spewing volcano and its spectacular show is visible from a range of locations throughout the island.
Idaho: Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve
Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve, located in south-central Idaho, is a truly unique and fascinating attraction. It’s made up of over 43,000 acres of lava fields, cinder cones and other volcanic features, with views that stretch as far as the eye can see. There are plenty of activities to choose from here, including hiking, camping and night sky viewing.
Illinois: Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, located in Springfield, Illinois, is dedicated to the life and legacy of the 16th President of the United States. It contains an extensive collection of artifacts, documents, photographs and artifacts from Abraham Lincoln’s life and presidency, as well as interactive displays and activities for visitors to explore and learn more about our 16th President.
Indiana: Marengo Cave National Landmark
Marengo Cave National Landmark, located in Marengo, Indiana, is Indiana’s only underground national park. With two miles of explored tunnels, explored caverns and rivers, the area offers visitors breathtaking views, geological formations and a glimpse of the rarely seen underground world. With attractions such as five miles of mapped passages, a natural stream, and a wealth of other sights, this is an absolute must-visit in Indiana.
Iowa: The National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium
The National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium, located in Dubuque, Iowa, celebrates the history and culture of the Mississippi River. From its formation to its culture, history, and wildlife, this large attraction provides a full education in the importance of the river to the United States. With two large aquariums and four interactive museum galleries, this is the perfect destination for anyone looking to learn more about the might Mississippi.
Kansas: Monument Rocks
Pack your climbing supplies and find your way to Monument Rocks, an incredible landmark of chalky spires jutting up from the plains of western Kansas. Over the years, Monument Rocks has remained an awe-inspiring sight to the people of America, especially the Great Plains tribes who call it the “writing on the wall,” as its intricate formations tell stories of the long-ago past.
Kentucky: Churchill Downs
Home of the iconic Kentucky Derby, Churchill Downs is a must-see for visitors of Louisville, Kentucky. The track was founded in 1875 and since then has become a touchstone of the racing community, hosting over 700,000 visitors a year. Whether you come for the annual Run for the Roses or just for a tour of the track and its grounds, Churchill Downs is sure to provide an unforgettable experience.
Louisiana: Mardi Gras World
One of the most famous attractions in Louisiana and certainly the most famous in New Orleans, Mardi Gras World is a must-visit. Located in the historic warehousing district of the city, Mardi Gras World is the production studio of Blaine Kern Studios and is filled with colorful and gigantic floats made originally for the Mardi Gras celebration. Tours of the facility are offered and they provide guests with an exciting and informative glimpse into the Mardi Gras festivities.
Maine: Moose Alley
Visit the bold and beautiful state of Maine, and you might find yourself in ‘Moose Alley’—a scenic drive along Route 15 located between Millinocket and Greenville. Here, travelers have the opportunity to spot some of Maine’s most impressive wildlife, including moose, loons, bald eagles and foxes. If you opt for a guided tour of the area, you’ll also get to experience nearby Baxter State Park, the Appalachian Trail and additional wildlife viewing opportunities.