These Are Quirky Roadside Attractions In Iowa You’re Whole Family Will Love!
Embark on a whimsical adventure through Iowa’s quirky roadside attractions and uncover the hidden gems that will leave you smiling! 🌽🚗 #IowaRoadsideWonders #Iowa #RoadTripGoals
Ames, Iowa – The Hawkeye State is often overlooked by travelers, but it’s home to a treasure trove of quirky and captivating roadside attractions. From giant sculptures to peculiar museums, these hidden gems scattered throughout Iowa offer a delightful break from the ordinary. Embarking on a journey to explore these offbeat wonders is an adventure that promises to be filled with surprises, laughter, and unforgettable memories.
The BEST Quirky Roadside Attractions in Iowa
Iowa is filled with quirky roadside attractions that capture the imagination and provide a touch of whimsy…plus they make for great selfies! Hehe. These uniquely Iowa experiences range from giant sculptures to eccentric museums, celebrating the Hawkeye State’s lighter side and the Americana spirit of the open road…
1. Embrace the Quirky
To make your trip to Iowa weird and quirky, embark on a “Roadside Oddity” scavenger hunt. Research and compile a list of offbeat attractions, peculiar landmarks, and eccentric roadside wonders across the state. From the World’s Largest Strawberry to the World’s Largest Concrete Garden Gnome, Iowa is home to many unique and unconventional sights.
Challenge yourself to visit as many of these peculiar places as possible, snapping photos and documenting your encounters along the way. Embrace the unexpected and let your sense of adventure lead you to the quirkiest corners of Iowa, creating unforgettable memories and adding a touch of whimsy to your trip – all for free!
2. Stop at Albert the Bull
Visit Audubon to see Albert the Bull, the world’s largest bull statue, a towering monument to the local beef industry. Albert can be seen at the Albert the Bull Park (1108 E Division St, Audubon, IA 50025).
3. Take a Picture with Pinky the Elephant
Pinky the Elephant at Lady Luck Casino (100 Anti Monopoly, Marquette, IA) is a whimsical and iconic landmark that adds a touch of charm to the casino grounds. This towering pink elephant statue has become a beloved symbol of fun and entertainment in Marquette, Iowa, attracting visitors with its unique and eye-catching presence.
4. Admire the World’s Largest Popcorn Ball
See the world’s largest popcorn ball in Sac City, a massive creation measuring over 23 feet in circumference. The World’s Largest Popcorn Ball can be seen at 1300 W Main St, Sac City, IA 50583.
5. Visit the World’s Largest Strawberry
Visit Strawberry Point to see the world’s largest strawberry statue, perched atop Strawberry Point City Hall (111 Commercial St, Strawberry Point, IA 52076).
6. Visit the Hobo Museum
Step into the National Hobo Museum (51 Main Ave S, Britt, IA 50423) to explore the nomadic lifestyle of America’s rail-riding wanderers.
7. Admire the World’s Largest Wooden Nickel
See the world’s largest wooden nickel in Iowa City, standing 12 feet tall and weighing over 4,000 pounds. Find it at 3246-3248 Iowa River Corridor Trail, Iowa City, IA 52240.
8. Take a Selfie at the Field of Dreams
Play a game of catch at the Field of Dreams movie site (28995 Lansing Rd, Dyersville, IA 52040), a preserved baseball diamond surrounded by cornfields.
9. Visit the Future Birthplace of James T. Kirk
Trekkies should not miss the future birthplace of Captain James T. Kirk, marked by a monument at 60 Greene St, Riverside, IA 52327.
10. The Shot Tower – A Historic Landmark
Standing proudly at the intersection of Commercial Street and the mighty Mississippi River in Dubuque, The Shot Tower is a fascinating historic landmark that tells the story of the city’s industrial past. This tower, built in 1856, was once used for manufacturing lead shot by dropping molten lead from the top to create perfectly round pellets.
Today, it serves as a reminder of Dubuque’s rich history and a testament to the ingenuity of its early settlers. As you admire the tower’s architecture and take in the scenic views of the river, you can’t help but feel a connection to the city’s vibrant past and appreciate the innovative spirit that shaped its development.
11. The Klokkenspel Delights All Ages
The Klokkenspel (625 Franklin St, Pella, IA 50219) is a must-visit quirky tourist attraction that will delight visitors of all ages. This unique landmark features a whimsical clock tower adorned with charming Dutch figurines that come to life and perform a delightful musical show multiple times a day. Embrace the enchanting atmosphere, marvel at the intricate craftsmanship, and create lasting memories as you experience the delightful charm of The Klokkenspel in Pella.
12. Explore Villisca Axe Murder House
Explore the macabre, by going on a tour (or an overnight stay) at the Villisca Axe Murder House (508 E 2nd St, Villisca, IA 50864), where a century-old unsolved murder mystery continues to intrigue visitors.
13. Stop by the Squirrel Cage Jail
Visit one of the few remaining “rotary jails” in Council Bluffs, a unique design meant to improve efficiency and security. The Squirrel Cage Jail (226 Pearl St, Council Bluffs, IA 51503) was built in 1885 and now has a great museum with informative tours.
14. Visit the Pocahontas Roadside Statue and Teepee
The Pocahontas Roadside Statue and Teepee (23001-23019 520th St in Pocahontas, IA 50574, stands as a remarkable testament to the vision of Albert J. Shaw and Frank W. Shaw. This 1954 project proudly showcases what is known as the “World’s Largest Indian Maiden.”
Towering above the landscape, the statue and teepee monument captivate visitors with their grandeur and serve as a testament to Native American heritage and culture. Exploring this iconic roadside attraction is an opportunity to appreciate the remarkable craftsmanship and pay homage to the rich history of the region.
15. See the Cardiff Giant Replica
Visit the Fort Dodge Historical Foundation and Museum to see a replica of the Cardiff Giant, one of the greatest hoaxes in American history: a 10-foot-tall, 3,000 pound “petrified man” that fooled audiences in the 1860s. Even P.T. Barnum cashed in on the Cardiff Giant: he made an unauthorized copy to display at his museum.
16. Preserving the Legacy of the Spirit Lake Massacre in Arnolds Park
The Abbie Gardner Cabin (74 Monument Dr, Arnolds Park, IA 51331) stands as a poignant reminder of the tragic events of the Spirit Lake Massacre and the resilience of its survivors. This historic cabin was the home of Abbie Gardner, a young girl who witnessed the brutal attack by Indigenous warriors in 1857.
Today, the cabin serves as a museum, offering visitors a glimpse into the harrowing experiences of the early settlers and the enduring spirit of those who persevered. Through exhibits, artifacts, and storytelling, the Abbie Gardner Cabin provides an educational and reflective experience, honoring the memory of the victims and preserving the history of this significant event in Iowa’s past.
17. Walk Around Clear Lake’s ‘Lady of the Lake’
Visit Clear Lake to see the Lady of the Lake (N Lake View Dr, Clear Lake, IA 50428) a steam-powered paddle wheel boat turned into a permanent on-land attraction. While in Clear Lake, be sure to visit the historic Surf Ballroom – which plays a tragic role in rock music history!
18. Freedom Rock is a Patriotic Tribute to Honor Heroes
Standing tall in Menlo, the Freedom Rock (1199 IA-25, Menlo, IA 50164) is a powerful symbol of patriotism and a stirring tribute to honor heroes. This iconic rock, painted annually by artist Ray “Bubba” Sorensen II, features breathtaking murals that depict the bravery and sacrifice of American servicemen and women.
As you visit the Freedom Rock, you will be immersed in a profound sense of gratitude and reverence, connecting with the stories and sacrifices that shape our nation’s history. It serves as a reminder of the enduring spirit of freedom and the unwavering dedication of those who have served our country.
19. Visit the World’s Largest Concrete Garden Gnome
Make a stop at Reiman Gardens (1407 S University Blvd, Ames, IA 50011) to marvel at Elwood, the world’s largest concrete garden gnome, standing tall at 15 feet.
20. Admire the Tree in the Middle of the Road
In the town of Brayton, a large tree grows right in the middle of a road, complete with its own historical marker. You can find it at the intersection of 350th Street and Nighthawk Avenue.
21. Butter Sculptures are Artistic Marvels Carved in Dairy Delights
The Iowa State Fair’s butter sculptures stand as magnificent artistic marvels carved from dairy delights. Each year, talented sculptors meticulously mold blocks of butter into captivating creations that amaze fairgoers.
These iconic sculptures, often depicting farm animals, famous figures, or intricate scenes, showcase the skill and creativity that can be achieved with an unconventional medium. A visit to the butter sculpture display at the Iowa State Fair is a whimsical and delicious experience that merges artistry with the state’s agricultural heritage.
22. Explore Snake Alley
Ride down Burlington’s Snake Alley, recognized by Ripley’s Believe It or Not as both “Unbelievably Crooked” and the “#1 Odd Spot” in the Odd Spots Across America category.
23. Experience the World’s Largest Truckstop
Iowa 80 – The World’s Largest Truckstop (755 W Iowa 80 Rd, Walcott, IA 52773) is a mecca for trucking enthusiasts and travelers alike, offering a vast array of amenities and services. With its impressive size, diverse food options, unique trucking museum, and extensive selection of trucking accessories, Iowa 80 is a must-visit destination that embodies the spirit of the American road trip.
Conclusion
Iowa’s quirky roadside attractions serve as a testament to the state’s creativity, humor, and unique character. These whimsical wonders not only provide a fun and engaging way to break up long road trips but also offer a glimpse into the heart and soul of the communities that created them. So, the next time you find yourself cruising through Iowa, be sure to take a detour and discover the delightful surprises that await you along the way. Happy travels!
🗣 Have you been to any of these quirky roadside attractions in Iowa? Did we miss any? We’d LOVE to hear from you in the comments section below. ⬇️
