29 Classic American Roadside Attractions That Are Worth the Stop

There’s something special about American roadside attractions. These quirky, colorful stops along highways and scenic routes offer travelers a break from the road and a step into history, humor, and creativity. 

Born out of the boom in automobile travel and the rise of family road trips, many of these attractions have become icons of Americana. They were designed to grab attention and tempt people to pull over, turning an ordinary drive into an adventure. 

Today, while many old roadside attractions have disappeared, plenty still stand proud, welcoming new generations of curious travelers. These spots offer something you won’t find at modern theme parks or tourist destinations, a genuine slice of American creativity and charm.

In this guide, we’ll take you to 29 of the oldest and most iconic roadside attractions in the United States that you can still visit today. For those looking to plan a memorable road trip, this list will offer tips for each stop to help you make the most of every visit. 

Have you seen any of these roadside wonders? How many have you visited? We’d love to hear your experiences in the comments!

Lucy the Elephant – Margate, New Jersey

Lucy the Elephant is a six-story elephant-shaped building that has been charming visitors since 1881. Standing proudly near Atlantic City, Lucy is more than just a roadside oddity, she’s a piece of American history. 

Built as a novelty to attract potential real estate buyers, Lucy has been used as a tavern, a summer rental, and even a speakeasy. Designated as a National Historic Landmark, Lucy invites visitors to walk through her interior and climb up for stunning views of the surrounding area. 

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

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

The Wigwam Motels along Route 66 are a throwback to the early days of American motoring. Built in the 1930s and 1940s, these motels feature tepee-shaped rooms and have become iconic Route 66 landmarks. 

Each motel once belonged to a nationwide chain of “Wigwam Villages” and aimed to capture the imagination of road-weary travelers looking for a unique place to rest. With their cultural significance preserved and their retro appeal revived, staying in one of these “wigwams” today feels like stepping back in time. 

Be sure to reserve your room early, as these unique accommodations are popular, especially with fans of classic Americana.

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The Thing – Dragoon, Arizona

If you’ve driven I-10 through Arizona, you’ve likely seen signs teasing “The Thing” for miles. This desert mystery has been attracting curious travelers since the 1950s. 

When you pull over, you’ll find a modest roadside museum that gradually reveals its main attraction: a mummified figure that is still 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 curious. 

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

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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 thousands of visitors each year who come to stand beside these larger-than-life icons. 

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

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The Mystery Spot – Santa Cruz, California

The Mystery Spot in Santa Cruz defies the laws of physics, or at least it feels that way. Since 1940, this attraction has puzzled visitors with strange gravitational effects and optical illusions. 

Structures seem to tilt at impossible angles, and you might feel yourself leaning or swaying unexpectedly. For decades, tourists have flocked here to experience the phenomenon and try to figure out what causes these strange effects. 

Tickets for the Mystery Spot’s guided tours can sell out quickly, so book ahead to guarantee your place. You’ll walk away with unforgettable memories and perhaps a few questions about the nature of reality.

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The House on the Rock – Spring Green, Wisconsin

Perched on a cliff overlooking the Wisconsin countryside, the House on the Rock is a sprawling wonder of architecture and imagination. Designed by Alex Jordan Jr. in the 1940s, this complex is filled with eclectic collections and unusual rooms, including the famous Infinity Room, which stretches over the valley without visible support. 

Visitors can wander through themed areas featuring everything from mechanical instruments to circus displays, each more surreal than the last. Be prepared to spend several hours here, the House on the Rock is massive, and you’ll want to give yourself time to appreciate its quirky charm.

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Carhenge – Alliance, Nebraska

In Alliance, Nebraska, you’ll find an unexpected sight: a full-scale replica of Stonehenge made from old cars, known as Carhenge. Created in 1987 by artist Jim Reinders, Carhenge is both a tribute to England’s ancient monument and a playful celebration of American car culture. 

The cars are painted gray to resemble the stones of Stonehenge, creating an eye-catching visual in the open Nebraska landscape. Admission is free, and visitors are welcome to explore the grounds and even bring a picnic to enjoy among the “stones.” 

It’s a fun, quirky stop that offers both artistry and a touch of humor.

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The Enchanted Highway – Regent, North Dakota

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

Built to attract visitors to his small hometown, Greff’s creations include a family of giant grasshoppers, a flock of geese, and a massive Tin Family. Each sculpture is visible from the highway, providing travelers with an entertaining art gallery on wheels. 

Best of all, the Enchanted Highway is free, making it a must-visit for road trippers. To enjoy the full experience, drive the entire route and stop to take pictures along the way.

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Cabazon Dinosaurs – Cabazon, California

The Cabazon Dinosaurs, located just off Interstate 10 in California, are two enormous dinosaur sculptures that have been delighting visitors since the 1960s. 

Originally built to attract customers to a roadside restaurant, the dinosaurs, known as Dinny the Dinosaur and Mr. Rex, have gained a reputation of their own. These statues are popular photo spots and even appeared in the classic film Pee-wee’s Big Adventure. 

Kids and adults alike will love posing with the dinosaurs, and for a small fee, you can climb up inside Dinny and take a look out from his back.

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South of the Border – Dillon, South Carolina

South of the Border is a colorful roadside complex that has been drawing travelers off Interstate 95 since 1950. Known for its whimsical “Pedro” mascot and vibrant billboards, South of the Border offers a little bit of everything, from souvenir shops to eateries and even a reptile house. 

Originally opened as a beer stand, this attraction has grown into a full entertainment complex, blending 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 classic stop for travelers heading up or down the East Coast.

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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 opening 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. Travelers passing through on their way to Mount Rushmore often stop to grab a bite, peruse the art galleries, and try the five-cent coffee. 

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

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Pops 66 Soda Ranch – Arcadia, Oklahoma

Pops 66 Soda Ranch is a modern addition to Route 66, featuring a 66-foot-tall neon soda bottle that lights up at night. Though it opened in 2007, Pops has quickly become a beloved stop for soda enthusiasts and road trippers alike. 

Inside, you’ll find over 700 varieties of soda, ranging from classic root beer to novelty flavors like buffalo wing. After picking out a few unusual flavors to try, visitors can sit outside and enjoy the soda under the glow of the bottle. 

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

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Jolly Green Giant Statue – Blue Earth, Minnesota

The Jolly Green Giant statue in Blue Earth, Minnesota, stands an impressive 55 feet tall, making it an eye-catching tribute to the popular food brand mascot. Built in 1979, this towering figure celebrates the agricultural heritage of the region, where Green Giant products originated. 

Travelers stopping to see this giant statue can explore the nearby museum, which features memorabilia and photos of the town’s history with the brand. Be sure to take a picture with this cheerful green icon and learn a bit about local farming traditions. 

Visiting during the summer also means a chance to attend festivals centered around this unique statue.

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Cadillac Ranch – Amarillo, Texas

In a field outside Amarillo, Texas, stands Cadillac Ranch, an iconic installation of ten classic Cadillacs buried nose-first in the ground. Created in 1974 by the art collective Ant Farm, these cars are spray-painted by visitors and have become a symbol of Route 66’s quirky culture. 

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

Just remember to bring a water bottle and some old clothes for this colorful stop.

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Gatorland – Orlando, Florida

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

Visitors can watch live feeding shows, spot enormous gators, or try the Screamin’ Gator Zip Line, which soars over the alligator-filled swamp. There’s plenty for both kids and adults to enjoy here, with interactive experiences and the chance to learn about these fascinating reptiles. 

Wear comfortable walking shoes, and don’t miss the opportunity to snap a photo with one of the park’s resident gators.

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

Cawker City, Kansas, is home to the world’s largest ball of twine, a monument to small-town creativity and community spirit. Begun by local farmer Frank Stoeber in 1953, the ball now weighs over 20,000 pounds and continues to grow as residents and visitors add more twine each year. 

The annual Twine-a-thon, held in August, is a community event where people come together to contribute to this quirky landmark. Visitors can walk around the ball and take photos or even add a bit of twine themselves, becoming a part of this unique tradition. 

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

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Corn Palace – Mitchell, South Dakota

The Corn Palace in Mitchell, South Dakota, is a building like no other. Originally built in 1892, it is adorned each year with murals made entirely from corn, grains, and other native crops. 

This one-of-a-kind palace serves as a community center and a tribute to the region’s agricultural heritage, drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors annually. Each year, a new mural theme is chosen, and local artists use colored corn to create the intricate designs. 

Admission is free, and visitors can enjoy tours explaining the building’s history and the artistry behind the murals. Late summer is the best time to visit, as the murals are freshest then.

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Petrified Wood Gas Station – Decatur, Texas

This fascinating gas station in Decatur, Texas, was constructed in the 1930s using petrified wood, giving it a rugged, prehistoric appearance. 

Although it no longer serves as a working gas station, the building remains a popular roadside photo stop and a glimpse 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, take a look at the adjoining petrified wood cabins, which add to the rustic charm of this Texas relic.

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The Beer Can House – Houston, Texas

The Beer Can House in Houston is a labor of love that began in the 1960s, when homeowner John Milkovisch decided to cover his house in flattened beer cans as a creative way to recycle. 

Over the years, he used more than 50,000 cans to decorate the exterior, creating a shimmering, metallic marvel that has become a folk art landmark. Today, the house is managed by a local art organization, and visitors can tour the inside to see Milkovisch’s handiwork up close. 

For a small admission fee, you’ll get a guided tour and learn about the house’s history and the artist’s inspiration.

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The Oregon Vortex – Gold Hill, Oregon

The Oregon Vortex is a roadside mystery spot that has confounded visitors since it opened in the 1930s. Known for its gravity-defying illusions, visitors experience strange effects like objects rolling uphill and people appearing taller or shorter depending on where they stand. 

This unique phenomenon has baffled scientists and delighted visitors for decades, making it a must-see for fans of the unexplained. Guided tours help visitors understand the illusions, and it’s best to reserve tickets in advance, especially during peak travel season. 

Prepare to be amazed and possibly a bit puzzled by this strange attraction.

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World’s Largest Catsup Bottle – Collinsville, Illinois

The world’s largest catsup bottle is a 70-foot-tall water tower that has stood in Collinsville, Illinois, since 1949. Originally built for a bottling plant, the massive bottle-shaped structure is a quirky tribute to America’s love of condiments. 

Now a landmark and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the bottle continues to draw visitors who love a touch of Americana. It’s especially popular during the annual Catsup Bottle Festival held each July, where families can celebrate this unique piece of history. 

Don’t forget to take a few photos with this roadside icon for a truly memorable keepsake.

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Rock City Gardens – Lookout Mountain, Georgia

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

The attraction became famous through its “See Rock City” barns painted along highways across the South. Visitors today can wander through the gardens, cross a swinging bridge, and stop at scenic overlooks. 

Be sure to wear comfortable shoes for the trail and take a moment at Lover’s Leap, where you’ll enjoy the best view on the attraction.

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Foamhenge – Centreville, Virginia

Foamhenge, a full-scale replica of Stonehenge made entirely of foam, was created 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 entertain visitors 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 classic landmark. 

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

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Randy’s Donuts – Inglewood, California

Randy’s Donuts has been an iconic Los Angeles landmark since 1953, thanks in part to its massive rooftop donut, which has appeared in numerous movies and TV shows. Located 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 has become a cultural symbol in its own right, drawing in visitors for both the tasty treats and the chance to snap a photo under the donut. Be sure to try their famous glazed donut for a true taste of LA’s best-known snack.

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The Salt Palace – Grand Saline, Texas

The Salt Palace in Grand Saline, Texas, is a one-of-a-kind building constructed from blocks 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 deposit, and the Salt Palace pays homage to this heritage with a small museum inside. Visitors can tour the building, learn about salt mining, and even take home a salt sample as a unique souvenir. 

Admission is free, making it an affordable and unusual stop on any Texas road trip.

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Dog Bark Park Inn – Cottonwood, Idaho

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

Guests enter through the dog’s belly and can stay in a cozy room filled with canine-themed decor. With limited rooms available, it’s essential to book ahead to secure a night in this unique inn. You’ll find treats and comforts to make your stay both relaxing and fun.

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

High Point, North Carolina, known as the “Furniture Capital of the World,” boasts the world’s largest chest of drawers, a 36-foot-tall tribute to the city’s furniture-making history. 

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

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

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Salvation Mountain – Niland, California

Salvation Mountain is a colorful, hand-painted hillside near the Salton Sea in California, created by artist Leonard Knight as a tribute to love and faith. The vibrant mountain is covered in murals, Bible verses, and bright colors, making it a striking sight against the desert landscape. 

Salvation Mountain has become an inspiring destination for art lovers, photographers, and spiritual seekers alike. The site is free to visit, though donations are appreciated to help preserve the artwork. 

Arriving in the early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photos and a cooler time to explore.

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International Banana Museum – Mecca, California

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

You can sample banana-flavored treats, try on banana costumes, and peruse aisles of quirky memorabilia. Admission is inexpensive, and it’s a fun spot to visit with family or friends for a good laugh and an unforgettable experience.

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Roadside Magic Lives On

These remarkable roadside attractions stand as living monuments to American creativity and adventure. Each one tells a unique story, creating memories that last long after you return home. 

Pack your camera, bring your sense of wonder, and add a few detours to your next road trip route. The best stories start when you take that exit toward something extraordinary. 

These beloved attractions have delighted travelers for generations, and they’re ready to amaze you too. The open road calls, and America’s most wonderful roadside treasures await your visit.

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