There’s something uniquely American about a good road trip. Whether you’re cruising down Route 66, exploring the Pacific Coast Highway, or making your way through the Great Plains, the journey is just as important as the destination. Along the way, roadside attractions offer moments of wonder, kitsch, and nostalgia that make the trip unforgettable. Here are some of the most legendary stops across the U.S.
The World’s Largest Ball of Twine (Cawker City, Kansas)
A true testament to small-town quirkiness, this massive ball of twine has been growing since 1953, thanks to the efforts of a local farmer named Frank Stoeber. It currently weighs over 20,000 pounds and continues to grow every year. Visitors are even encouraged to add their own twine to the ever-expanding marvel, making it a community effort.
Cadillac Ranch (Amarillo, Texas)
This iconic art installation features ten half-buried Cadillacs covered in layers of graffiti, lined up nose-first in the ground at the same angle as the Great Pyramid of Giza. Created in 1974 by a group of artists known as the Ant Farm, it has become a symbol of the American road trip and the evolution of car culture. Travelers are welcome to bring their own spray paint and leave their mark on the constantly changing canvas.
3. The Corn Palace (Mitchell, South Dakota)
A palace made entirely of corn? Yes, and it gets a new design every year. Originally built in 1892, this attraction showcases murals and artwork crafted from thousands of ears of corn, celebrating South Dakota’s agricultural heritage. It also hosts concerts, festivals, and sporting events, making it a surprisingly lively stop for travelers.
4. Foamhenge (Fairfield, Virginia)
A full-scale replica of England’s Stonehenge—but made entirely of foam. This attraction was created by artist Mark Cline in 2004 as a humorous and surprisingly detailed tribute to one of the world’s most mysterious monuments. Though originally located in Natural Bridge, it was relocated to Cox Farms in Fairfax County, Virginia, where it continues to delight visitors.
5. Salvation Mountain (Niland, California)
A colorful, hand-painted mountain in the middle of the California desert, this folk-art wonder was created as a tribute to love and faith by Leonard Knight. Made from adobe, straw, and thousands of gallons of donated paint, it’s a sight to behold. The vibrant murals and religious messages cover the entire structure, making it one of the most unique art pieces in the country.
6. Wall Drug (Wall, South Dakota)
What started as a simple drugstore offering free ice water to travelers in 1931 has turned into a sprawling complex of shops, restaurants, and quirky attractions, including a giant jackalope statue and animatronic T. rex. Famous for its endless billboards advertising free water and five-cent coffee, Wall Drug is a must-see stop for anyone driving through South Dakota.
7. Lucy the Elephant (Margate, New Jersey)
A six-story elephant-shaped building built in 1881, Lucy is one of America’s oldest roadside attractions. Originally designed as a real estate office to attract buyers to the Jersey Shore, she has since become a beloved landmark. Visitors can climb inside for an impressive view of the Atlantic coast and learn about Lucy’s long history of survival through storms and neglect.
8. The Mystery Spot (Santa Cruz, California)
A gravitational anomaly that defies physics, The Mystery Spot is a place where the laws of gravity seem to bend. Objects roll uphill, people appear to shrink and grow, and visitors are left scratching their heads. Discovered in 1939, it has baffled and entertained tourists ever since, making it one of California’s most intriguing attractions.
9. Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox (Bemidji, Minnesota)
One of the most famous roadside statues in the country, these towering figures pay homage to the legendary lumberjack and his oversized companion. Built in 1937, the statues stand at 18 feet tall and have become an enduring symbol of Minnesota’s logging history. Visitors can snap a photo with the duo and explore the nearby Paul Bunyan Museum.
10. Carhenge (Alliance, Nebraska)
If Stonehenge was made of old cars instead of stones, it would look like Carhenge. This bizarre yet captivating roadside attraction was created in 1987 by artist Jim Reinders as a tribute to his father. Made from 38 spray-painted, stacked automobiles arranged to mimic the real Stonehenge, it’s a surreal sight that draws thousands of visitors each year.
America’s highways are dotted with these eccentric and unforgettable landmarks. Whether you’re looking for a dose of nostalgia, art, or just a weird photo op, these legendary roadside attractions make the journey just as exciting as the destination.
Now Stop at One of America’s Oldest Diners
Diners are a beloved piece of American culture, offering a nostalgic journey back to a simpler time with chrome-plated exteriors, cozy booths, and classic comfort food. While many have come and gone, some of the country’s oldest diners have stood the test of time, continuing to serve generations of loyal customers. Here’s a look at some of the oldest operating diners in America, where history and hearty meals go hand in hand.