Off Beat Roadside Attractions, Trivia, & More
The open road beckons, promising not just a destination but a journey filled with unexpected delights. Along America’s highways and byways, a unique breed of attractions awaits – the offbeat, the quirky, and the downright bizarre. These roadside stops, often marked by strange statues, larger-than-life items, and gimmicky signs, can elicit a range of reactions from drivers, from a sudden screeching halt to a bewildered "what in the hell was that?" They are the unsung heroes of the American road trip, providing moments of amusement, curiosity, and the perfect photo opportunity.
The allure of these unusual attractions lies in their ability to disrupt the monotony of travel. Imagine cruising down a seemingly endless stretch of highway, only to be confronted by a replica of Stonehenge constructed entirely of automobiles. Such sights demand a second look, a photograph, and perhaps even a snapshot with the traveler themselves, forever documenting their encounter with the wonderfully weird. These are the Off Beat Roadside Attractions that etch themselves into the memory of any road trip.
The history of these oddities is as intriguing as the attractions themselves. In the early days of the automobile, as Henry Ford’s Model T allowed travelers to traverse the country at unprecedented speeds, businesses faced a new challenge: how to capture the attention of these fast-moving motorists? The solution was simple: build bigger, bolder, and more outlandish displays. Massive signs, colossal statues, and other advertising gimmicks were erected to lure travelers to stop and spend their money.
This era also saw the rise of roadside art. Artists, encouraged by the potential for exposure, began creating sculptures and installations along the highways, transforming the landscape into an open-air gallery of the unexpected. Some, driven by their own artistic vision, built regardless of whether people stop; such is the story of the Winchester Mystery House in California or the Bottle House in Nevada. These are the Off Beat Roadside Attractions that spark the imagination.
Today, the spirit of roadside oddity lives on. While some attractions are designed to promote a particular business or cause, others exist purely for the sake of novelty and amusement. Whatever their purpose, these quirky creations add a unique dimension to the American travel experience, transforming a simple drive into an adventure filled with surprises. The Off Beat Roadside Attractions are a testament to American ingenuity and a celebration of the unusual.
Let’s delve into some specific examples of these unforgettable roadside gems:
Carhenge (Alliance, Nebraska): Perhaps one of the most iconic of all Off Beat Roadside Attractions, Carhenge is a replica of England’s Stonehenge, but instead of massive stones, it’s constructed from vintage automobiles. Created by Jim Reinders as a memorial to his father, Carhenge is a testament to the power of human creativity and a truly unforgettable sight. The gray-painted cars stand in for the ancient stones, creating a surreal and humorous landscape in the middle of the Nebraska plains.
The Here It Is Sign (Joseph City, Arizona): This simple yet effective sign, located on Route 66, is a classic example of roadside advertising. The sign, simply reading "Here It Is," was erected to attract travelers to a trading post in Joseph City. While the trading post may be long gone, the sign remains, a nostalgic reminder of a bygone era of roadside Americana.
Booger Hollow (Arkansas): More than just a roadside attraction, Booger Hollow is a small, unincorporated community that embraces its unusual name. The community is home to a double-decker outhouse, a quirky and humorous structure that perfectly embodies the spirit of Off Beat Roadside Attractions. Booger Hollow’s charm lies in its unapologetic embrace of its oddity, creating a welcoming and entertaining stop for travelers.
Spud Drive-In (Driggs, Idaho): What better way to celebrate Idaho’s famous potatoes than with a giant potato at a drive-in movie theater? The Spud Drive-In features a massive potato sculpture, complete with butter and sour cream, that serves as a whimsical landmark. This is another one of Off Beat Roadside Attractions. It’s a perfect example of how a simple idea, executed with creativity and humor, can become a beloved roadside icon.
The Blue Whale of Catoosa (Oklahoma): A beloved Route 66 landmark, the Blue Whale is a massive concrete sculpture that once served as a swimming hole. Built by Hugh Davis as a gift to his wife, Zelta, the Blue Whale has become a symbol of the Mother Road and a popular stop for travelers seeking a taste of Americana. This whale is one of Off Beat Roadside Attractions that can spark joy in everyone. Its cheerful blue color and welcoming smile make it a must-see for anyone traveling through Oklahoma.
The Jackalope (Wyoming): Though mythical, the jackalope, a creature said to be a cross between a jackrabbit and an antelope, is a prominent figure in Wyoming’s roadside culture. Roadside shops and attractions often feature jackalope taxidermy mounts, postcards, and other souvenirs, perpetuating the legend of this elusive creature.
These are just a few examples of the many Off Beat Roadside Attractions that dot the American landscape. From quirky museums to bizarre sculptures, these attractions offer a glimpse into the unique character and spirit of the nation. They are a reminder that the journey is just as important as the destination and that sometimes, the best experiences are the ones you least expect.
So, the next time you’re planning a road trip, be sure to keep an eye out for these hidden gems. You never know what strange and wonderful sights you might encounter along the way. Embrace the unexpected, and let the Off Beat Roadside Attractions of America transform your journey into an unforgettable adventure.
© Kathy Alexander