10 Roadside Attractions From The ’70s That Had A Quirky And Creepy Charm
The 1970s gave us more than just funky music and bell-bottoms—it also gave us some seriously quirky and creepy roadside attractions.
I’ll never forget the time I stumbled upon a giant, half-crumbling teapot during a road trip. Was it a cafe or just a weird relic?
That’s the charm of these places. They combined oddball creativity with a touch of the unsettling.
From towering dinosaurs to haunted motels, these offbeat landmarks turned every road trip into an unforgettable adventure, even if it was a little eerie!
1. The World’s Largest Ball of Twine
In the heart of Kansas, there’s a town boasting the world’s largest ball of twine! This colossal sphere of string, wrapped meticulously over decades, stands as a testament to human patience. Travelers stop by, eager to add a bit of twine themselves.
The sheer size of this ball can be awe-inspiring, but there’s something oddly unsettling about its presence. Maybe it’s the thought of countless hours spent weaving it.
Yet, it remains a beloved quirky landmark that continues to grow, inch by inch.
2. Mystery Spot
Nestled in the woods of Santa Cruz lies the Mystery Spot, where gravity seems to have taken a holiday! Visitors find themselves leaning at impossible angles, baffled and amused.
A guided tour explains these odd phenomena, attributing them to ‘mystery forces.’
The crooked cabin and slanted floors add to the eerie charm, making it a must-see for those intrigued by the inexplicable. Some leave scratching their heads, others with stories of defying gravity, but all with a smirk on their face.
3. Corn Palace
In Mitchell, South Dakota, stands a palace adorned with corn! Every year, artists create vibrant murals using thousands of corn cobs, celebrating the harvest in a colorful display.
The sight of a building completely covered in corn is both delightful and slightly eerie. The intricate designs change annually, ensuring each visit offers something new.
It’s a celebration of agriculture, creativity, and perhaps an underlying quirkiness that draws visitors from all over, eager to see what corn can do.
4. The House on the Rock
Tucked away on a rocky outcrop in Wisconsin lies the House on the Rock, a place that feels like a fever dream you’re oddly drawn to.
I remember walking through its winding halls, where every corner held something stranger than the last—a carousel with no horses, rooms filled with quirky oddities, and dim lighting that made everything feel just a little more mysterious.
It’s not just a museum; it’s an adventure into the weird and wonderful, a place where you’ll find yourself both fascinated and, maybe, a bit freaked out.
5. Salvation Mountain
In California’s desert stands Salvation Mountain, a colorful testament to faith and creativity. Covered in bright paint and adorned with spiritual messages, it draws curious souls seeking inspiration.
The vibrant artwork, created over years by a devoted artist, is both beautiful and bizarre. Its isolated location adds to the mystery, making it an unexpected oasis of color and devotion.
Visitors often leave feeling uplifted, having witnessed a true labor of love in the most unlikely of places.
6. Cadillac Ranch
Out in the Texas countryside, Cadillac Ranch stands as a colorful collision of art and car culture. Imagine a row of classic Cadillacs, half-buried in the ground, their iconic fins reaching skyward like bizarre sculptures.
A friend of mine once stopped by and couldn’t resist the urge to spray paint one of the cars. It’s a strange, rebellious place where visitors can leave their own artistic mark.
With each layer of graffiti, this quirky roadside attraction evolves, embracing creativity and the rebellious spirit of the ’70s.
7. Foamhenge
In Virginia, Foamhenge offers a playful twist on the ancient Stonehenge. Crafted entirely from foam, this replica captures the imagination with its whimsical tribute to history.
The lightweight stones stand proudly in a field, inviting visitors to touch and explore. While it lacks the authenticity of the original, its charm lies in its creativity and humor.
It’s a delightful detour for those who appreciate a quirky take on a famous monument, offering a fun photo-op in the countryside. This is something that is definitely on my bucket list of things to see in the future.
8. The Thing
In the dusty stretches of Arizona, ‘The Thing’ awaits discovery. This roadside museum teases travelers with billboards promising mystery and intrigue. Inside, odd exhibits and the titular ‘Thing’ delight and perplex.
Visitors wander through dimly lit displays, their curiosity piqued by each strange artifact. The allure of the unknown keeps people coming, eager to unravel the enigma.
It’s a quirky attraction that embodies the spirit of roadside Americana, offering a blend of the bizarre and entertaining.
9. The Dinosaur Park
In South Dakota, The Dinosaur Park brings prehistoric giants to life! Life-sized dinosaur statues dot the landscape, captivating the young and old alike. Families stroll among these ancient beasts, snapping photos and sharing laughs.
While some statues have weathered the years, their charm remains undiminished. The park blends education with entertainment, offering a glimpse into the past with a touch of nostalgia.
It’s a delightful stop for those looking to journey back in time, with a dash of whimsy.
10. Carhenge
In Nebraska, Carhenge offers a quirky spin on the ancient Stonehenge, combining art with vintage cars. Picture this: old cars, painted grey, stacked in a circle, creating a surreal yet intriguing sight.
A friend of mine stumbled upon it during a road trip and couldn’t help but snap a few creative photos.
Its open-field location makes it a perfect pitstop, mixing humor with a touch of history. Carhenge is a fun tribute to innovation, blending eccentricity with a playful nod to a centuries-old mystery.