Top 51 Unusual Places to Visit in the USA That Will Amaze You (2024)

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The Unique Places to Visit in the US 1: Glass Beach, Fort Bragg, California 2: Natural Rock Face, Petersburg, Alaska 3: Marfa Lights, Texas 4: Jules' Undersea Lodge, Key Largo, Florida 5: Enchanted Highway, North Dakota 6: Unclaimed Baggage Centre, Scottsboro, Alabama 7: The Mutter Museum, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 8: Cincinnati's Abandoned Subway, Ohio 9: Fly Geyser, Reno, Nevada 10: Museum of Bad Art, Boston, Massachusetts 11: Thor's Well, Yachats, Oregon 12: Museum of Death, New Orleans, Louisiana 13: Mapparium, Boston, Massachusetts 14: Ben and Jerry’s Flavor Graveyard, Waterbury, Vermont 15: Corn Palace, Mitchell, South Dakota 16: Market Theater Gum Wall, Seattle, Washington 17: National Mustard Museum, Middleton, Wisconsin 18: Mermaids of Weeki Wachee, Weeki Wachee, Florida 19: Nuclear Waste Adventure Trail, Weldon Spring, Missouri 20: World’s Largest Toilet, Columbus, Indiana 21: Carhenge, Alliance, Nebraska 22: World’s Most Scenic Urinal, Kealakekua, Hawaii 23: Winchester Mystery House, San Jose, California 24: Zak Bagans' The Haunted Museum, Las Vegas, Nevada 25: Barney Smith's Toilet Seat Art Museum, The Colony, TX 26: Leila's Hair Museum, Independence, Missouri 27: The Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum, Gatlinburg, Tennessee 28: UFO Watchtower, Center, Colorado 29: World's Largest Chest of Drawers, High Point, North Carolina 30: Hole in the Rock, Phoenix Arizona 31: Mmuseumm, New York, New York 32: Secret Tiled Staircase, San Francisco, California 33: Hamilton Pool, Dripping Springs, Texas 34: House on the Rock, Spring Green, Wisconsin 35: Philadelphia's Magic Gardens, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 36: Ah-Shi-Sle-Pah Wilderness, Bloomfield, New Mexico 37: President Heads, Williamsburg, Virginia 38: Museum of Sex, Manhattan, New York 39: Lost Sea, Sweetwater, Tennessee 40: Watts Towers, Los Angeles, California 41: Museum of the Weird, Austin, Texas 42: The Grotto, Portland, Oregon 43: American Sign Museum, Cincinnati, Ohio 44: Mystery Castle, Phoenix, Arizona 45: Casa Bonita, Lakewood, Colorado 46: Pit of Buffalo Bones, Vore, Wyoming 47: The Clown Motel, Tonopah, Nevada 48: Gun Totem, Providence, Rhode Island 49: World's Largest Peanut, Ashburn, Georgia 50: Octopus Tree of Oregon, Tillamook, Oregon 51: The Center of the Universe, Tulsa, Oklahoma Ready to explore the unique places in America? Other unique places to explore References

Last Updated on August 18, 2023 by Nikki Jain

Because the United States is such a large country, there are plenty of things to see and do. Most people stick to the major, world-famous sites, such as the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, or Disneyland.

However, if you want a truly unique experience, consider visiting a more unusual place. When your friends and family hear about your trip, they will be jealous as well as inspired to follow your lead.

Here are the most unusual places to visit in the USA.

The Unique Places to Visit in the US

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1: Glass Beach, Fort Bragg, California

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A visit to Glass Beach in Fort Bragg shows you just how creative Mother Nature can be. This beach is the result of decades (1906 to 1967) of people dumping garbage of all types into the ocean by throwing it over the cliffs.

Eventually, this garbage started washing up onshore in the form of smooth pieces of glass. The beach is protected, so you can't take any of your finds with you, but feel free to take as many pictures as you want.

If you're lucky, you may find a sapphire gem from an apothecary bottle or a ruby red from car taillights before 1967.

Address: Fort Bragg, CA 95437

Also Read: Most Famous Places to Visit in the United States and The Best West Coast Beaches You Must Visit

2: Natural Rock Face, Petersburg, Alaska

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This Natural Rock Face is a face formed out of rocks that are naturally occurring in the Wrangell-Petersburg Census Area, Alaska. To see the face, you should approach it by boat, and you will find it framed by the Sumdum Glacier in the background. This is another unusual place to visit in the United States, and it shows you what Mother Nature is capable of, as the rock truly resembles a face and neck.

Address: Wrangell-Petersburg Census Area, Petersburgh, Alaska

Also Read: Top 10 Weird Natural Sites in the USA

3: Marfa Lights, Texas

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The Marfa Lights first gained notice in the 19th century, and they are still visible today. Everyone from locals to famous meteorologists has viewed these gorgeous lights southeast of Marfa along the horizon, and they seem to have no source at all.

The area where the lights are is hard to traverse and uninhabited, and the lights can be white, blue, or red. They will appear randomly at night all year round, regardless of the weather. There is an official Marfa Lights Viewing Area 9 miles to the east of Marfa along Highway 90.

Address: Marfa, TX 79843

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4: Jules' Undersea Lodge, Key Largo, Florida

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The building that is now Jules' Undersea Lodge started as La Chalupa laboratory for research. Looking out the windows of the lodge will show you amazing underwater marine life.

It is a natural nursery used by many reef fish, such as snappers, barracudas, parrotfish, and tropical angelfish. You can stay in the lodge for a few hours to a full day, and the Lodge provides you with scuba gear and as many tanks as you want. There are also options for overnight stays or to enjoy lunch in the Lodge for a truly unusual experience.

Address: 51 Shoreland Dr, Key Largo, FL 33037

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5: Enchanted Highway, North Dakota

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The Enchanted Highway covers 32 miles of highway and is the most extensive collection of scrap metal sculptures in the world. To get to the Enchanted Highway, take Exit 72 from I-94 and be sure to stop by the gift shop in Regent, North Dakota, for miniature versions of your favorite sculptures.

Some of the highlights include "Fisherman's Dream," "Deer Crossing," "World's Largest Tin Family," and "Grasshoppers in the Field." The Enchanted Highway is definitely one of the unique places to visit in the US.

Address: Lefor, ND 58641

Also Read: Top 25 Weird Roadside Attractions in the USA

6: Unclaimed Baggage Centre, Scottsboro, Alabama

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The Unclaimed Baggage Center began in 1970 when Doyle Owens began selling unclaimed baggage off card tables in front of his home, and it quickly became a success.

Today, the Unclaimed Baggage Centre in Alabama has strong relationships with transportation companies and airlines. The current center is over a city block and receives more than a million visitors annually from across the USA and many other countries.

The 40,000 square-foot store is divided into departments that sell, donate, and recycle the contents of orphaned bags. There is also a cafe on-site and a store map to help you plan your visit.

Address: 509 W Willow St,Scottsboro, AL 35768

7: The Mutter Museum, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

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This museum, run by the College of Physicians of Philadelphia, is considered one of the top museums of medical history in the country. Here, you can find medical instruments, models, and anatomical specimens, all carefully displayed in a setting reminiscent of the 19th-century cabinet museums.

Every year, 130,000 visitors come to the museum, and there is also a Museum Education program for schools. Some of the unique items in this unusual place include Einstein's brain, the tallest skeleton on display in North America, and President Grover Cleveland's jaw tumor.

Address: 19 S 22nd St, Philadelphia, PA 19103

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8: Cincinnati's Abandoned Subway, Ohio

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A visit to Cincinnati will show you the largest abandoned subway tunnel in the US. In reality, the construction of this tunnel stopped during the late 1920s when less than half of the line was laid, leaving seven miles tunneled, graded, and bridged but without tracks.

Eventually, the majority of the above-ground portion was bulldozed to make room for highways, but the tunnels remain. Earlier, tours of the abandoned tunnel were being offered; however, it is no longer accessible.

Address: Cincinnati, Ohio, 45202

9: Fly Geyser, Reno, Nevada

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The Fly Geyser is perhaps one of the strangest places to visit in Nevada despite many people not even knowing about it. This geyser shoots water up around five feet into the air. Although the geyser itself isn't open to the public, you can get excellent views along State Route 34, which is about 0.3 miles away.

The Fly Geyser began as a man-made well in the early 1900s. Over time, geothermally heated, piping hot water started to rise through the cracks, creating the geyser. Attempts to cap it failed, leading to the current attraction.

Address: Gerlach, NV 89412

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10: Museum of Bad Art, Boston, Massachusetts

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Located in the basement of the Somerville Theater in Davis Square, the Museum of Bad Art is one of the unique places in the US. MOBA is the only museum in the world that collects, preserves, and exhibits bad art in all its forms.

The museum's collection includes works by talented artists who have created crude but exuberant works of art and art that show little control over the brush. Every piece of art in the museum is so bad but still different than those by incompetent artists, giving visitors a unique and fun experience.

Address: 46 Tappan St,Brookline, MA 02445

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11: Thor's Well, Yachats, Oregon

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The vast ocean is full of unbelievable natural landmarks. Luckily, one of the weirdest is located just off the Oregon coast near Yachats. Thor’s Well is a breathtaking site where you can see where the ocean drains.

Thor’s Well is a natural sinkhole. It’s a former sea cave, but the roof collapsed from erosion. It left behind a well as deep as approximately six meters. From the surface level, it seems like an endless flow.

The best time to visit Thor's Well is during high tide when water rushes over the edge and ever shoots up into the air. Visitors can walk the paved trail leading to an overlook. There are also trails leading down to see the hole at ground level – be careful of the crashing waves.

Address: Yachats, OR 97498

Also Read: Most Beautiful Places in the USA

12: Museum of Death, New Orleans, Louisiana

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As if the French Quarter in New Orleans doesn’t already have enough strange stuff to see, the Museum of Death fits right in. It’s one of the weirdest places to visit in the US, with a collection that will send chills down your spine.

The Museum of Death is a space dedicated to showcasing death. It exhibits photos of serial killers, crime scenes, death-related artwork and displays mortuary equipment.

It's not a place for the faint of heart, but there are indeed things you won't be able to take your eyes off of. The museum is a small space that also has a souvenir shop before the museum entrance. Keep in mind that cameras and video aren't allowed inside.

Address: 227 Dauphine St, New Orleans, LA 70112

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13: Mapparium, Boston, Massachusetts

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The Mapparium is undoubtedly one of the coolest places in America. It’s a museum located in Boston that takes you to the center of the globe! The Mapparium is a library that opened in 1935.

It was started by Mary Baker Eddy, the founder of Christian Science. The library holds lots of rare books and archives, but the main attraction is the glass globe. Visitors can step inside a glass ball measuring three stories high and 30 feet wide. Inside, you’ll be blown away by the beautiful stained glass designed to depict the world.

There are over 600 colorful stained panels that make up the globe. Be sure to test out the acoustics while you’re staining in the middle of it.

Address: The Mary Baker Eddy Library, 210 Massachusetts Ave, Boston, MA 02115

14: Ben and Jerry’s Flavor Graveyard, Waterbury, Vermont

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Ben and Jerry’s Ice Cream is America’s favorite ice cream, founded back in 1978 in Vermont. Throughout its history, there have been lots of flavors that come and go. But have you wondered what happens to all of the flavors?

Ben and Jerry’s Flavor Graveyard is one of the coolest places in the US, no pun intended. It’s a graveyard dedicated to all of the discontinued flavors. It's a place filled with popular flavors, experimental flavors, and failed attempts at creating the next bestseller.

Each flavor has a designated tombstone with information about it and the years that it was active. Some of the flavors are Peanut Butter and Jelly, Aloha Macadamia, and Fossil Fuel. The company occasionally lets customers vote on which flavor to resurrect for a limited time.

Address: 1281 Waterbury-Stowe Road, VT-100, Waterbury Village Historic District, VT 05676

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15: Corn Palace, Mitchell, South Dakota

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The Taj Mahal has nothing on the Corn Palace in South Dakota. It's a one-of-a-kind attraction showing just how significant the agriculture industry is to the Midwest.

Corn Palace is the most visited attraction in Mitchell, with over half a million visitors. The large palace was built in 1892 and has an incredible design on the exterior and inside. The palace has many details, such as pillars designed to look like corn.

Outside, you can check out the large, themed mural made of corn and other crops. The murals are updated every year using crops from the current harvest, so as long as there are murals, it is a successful harvest year.

Address: 604 N Main St, Mitchell, SD 57301

Also Read: Best Places to Visit in the USA

16: Market Theater Gum Wall, Seattle, Washington

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It's not rare to see old gum left behind on the sidewalks or under tables. But for some reason, the alley of the Market Theater in Seattle is where everyone seems to want to place their gum. The famous Gum Wall isn’t Seattle's prettiest attraction, but it’s quirky enough to make it a must-see place.

Market Theater Gum Wall started in the 1990s when someone stuck his gum on the wall while waiting in line to enter the theater for an improv show. It grew into a trend that now attracts many visitors to do the same.

It was recently cleaned, revealing that it had approximately 2,350 pounds of gum on the wall. But soon after, the gum reappeared and now seems even bigger than before.

Address: 1428 Post Alley, Seattle, WA 98101

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17: National Mustard Museum, Middleton, Wisconsin

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You could have a museum about anything in theory, but did you ever think that a National Mustard Museum would actually become a popular attraction? It’s one of the most unique places to visit in the US, where you’ll learn everything there is to know about mustard.

The National Mustard Museum was started by Barry Levenson, who spent his time amassing an incredible collection of mustard and mustard memorabilia. The museum opened in 1992 with over 5,500 types of mustard on display.

Chat with the staff to learn more about mustard history, how it’s made, etc. You might even see the mustard bottle mascot hanging around for pictures. One of the best parts of the museum is the mustard taste bar with hundreds of flavors to try.

Address: 7477 Hubbard Ave, Middleton, WI 53562

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18: Mermaids of Weeki Wachee, Weeki Wachee, Florida

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Did you know that mermaids actually exist? Except in real life, they aren’t swimming around the ocean – they reside in Weeki Wachee State Park in Florida.

The Mermaids of Weeki Wachee is a live show that happens daily. It’s one of the best things to do in the state park.

You can see the Mermaids of Weeki Wachee through the glass displays for underwater viewing. It’s a large auditorium with seating for up to 400 attendees. The mermaids perform The Little Mermaid, which is fun for all ages.

Check the show schedule to make sure that you don’t miss it. While you wait for the next performance, you can enjoy activities in the park, like swimming in the springs and boat rides.

Address: Weeki Wachee Spring, Florida 34606

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19: Nuclear Waste Adventure Trail, Weldon Spring, Missouri

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The Nuclear Waste Adventure Trail is a large site in Weldon Springs used during the WWII era to dispose of nuclear waste. There was so much waste put here that it piles upwards of seven stories high.

The waste pile is covered with rocks and soil, but the harmful toxins create the barren white ground. For many years, the site’s radiation levels were too dangerous for visitors. It’s now safe to visit and evolved into one of the strangest places in America to visit.

Visitors can hike to the top of the hill or check out the museum to learn more about the history of nuclear waste.

Address: 7295 S Highway 94, Weldon Spring, MO 63304

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20: World’s Largest Toilet, Columbus, Indiana

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Have you ever flushed a toilet and wondered where the water goes? Well, the world’s largest toilet lets you see for yourself!

Kids Commons is a hands-on children’s museum. It’s a fun learning center with lots of interactive exhibitions. The most popular attraction is ExploraHouse, where you’ll discover the biggest toilet in the world.

The world’s largest toilet is part of a giant house designed to give kids an up-close look at a house’s features. Kids can climb through piping, in between walls, and more. The massive toilet is a slide that takes kids through the house pipes and out the other side.

It’s large enough for an adult to sit comfortably inside. You’re more than welcome to take pictures as the quirky attraction.

Address: 09 Washington St, Columbus, IN 47201

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21: Carhenge, Alliance, Nebraska

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The creator of Carhenge must have had a deep fascination with Stonehenge and wanted to bring the famous English attraction to the US. It’s among the most unusual places in the US that reimagine Stonehenge as cars.

Stonehenge is an ancient site made of stones, but the public art installation near Alliance, Nebraska, was built in 1987 using old cars. The cars are painted gray to make them look as close to stones as possible.

Carhenge is an impressive sight to see a scale recreation of Stonehenge. Some of the cars are stuck in the ground while others are placed on the top. Be sure to read the information plaque located on the site to learn more about Carhenge and the motivation behind it.

Address: 2151 Co Rd 59, Alliance, NE 69301

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22: World’s Most Scenic Urinal, Kealakekua, Hawaii

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A bathroom break at the World’s Most Scenic Urinal is one that you don’t want to rush. When you pull into the Hotel Kona parking lot, the pink hotel design might seem like the weirdest thing about the building but wait until you go inside to use the public bathroom.

If you didn’t know, men use the restroom standing up. But instead of facing a dirty bathroom wall, a window is cut out directly in front of the urinal to see beautiful views of the big island – lush vegetation extending out to the coast.

The views that you’ll have at the world’s most scenic urinal are just enough to make you forget that you’re standing in a bathroom.

Address: 76-5908 Mamalahoa Hwy., Kealakekua, Big Island, HI

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23: Winchester Mystery House, San Jose, California

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The Winchester Mystery House is by far one of the top weird places to visit in the US. At a quick glance, the house looks like a stunning Victorian mansion. But as you begin to look closely and tour inside, it gets stranger around every corner.

Sarah Winchester built the house after her husband passed. He left her behind a fortune made from the firearms business and left a curse of spirits from people who died from the weapons.

A psychic instructed her to relocate to San Jose and build a mansion – a mansion that would never be finished. Winchester Mystery House has 160 rooms. Guided haunted tours reveal stairways that lead to nowhere, inside windows, a door to nowhere, and more.

Address: 525 S Winchester Blvd, San Jose, CA 95128

Also Read: Top Tourist Attractions in San Jose

24: Zak Bagans' The Haunted Museum, Las Vegas, Nevada

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If you’re looking for unexplainable paranormal activity, Zak Bagans’ The Haunted Museum is the place to go. It’s one of the most unusual places to visit in the US, where there’s a good chance you’ll feel some kind of paranormal experience.

Visitors take a two-hour guided tour of the 20th-century mansion. It has 30 themed rooms with artifacts in each.

You can check out the jail room to see objects from high-profile murders, the doll room to see creepy dolls, and even sit in the devil’s chair. Keep your eyes and ears aware of any spirits wandering the haunted hallways.

Address: 600 E Charleston Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89104

Also Read: Top Tourist Attractions in Las Vegas

25: Barney Smith's Toilet Seat Art Museum, The Colony, TX

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Barney Smith’s Toilet Seat Art Museum deserves to be on every list of unique places in the United States. You might not have heard about it, but it’s a museum that you surely won’t forget about once you do.

The Toilet Seat Art Museum is a humble gallery established in a detached garage on the property of artist Barney Smith. The museum holds more than 1,400 uniquely designed toilet seats. It’s impressive to see just how many different pieces of artwork are in the space.

The artist himself gave tours of his museum until his death at age 98. He was considered the ‘King of the Commode.’ The museum remains open for visitors to see his legacy.

Address: 5959 Grove Ln, The Colony, TX 75056

Also Read: 20 Best Art Museums in the USA

26: Leila's Hair Museum, Independence, Missouri

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Have you ever wondered what a hairdresser does with all of the hair when she’s finished? If you’ve ever sat in the chair of Leila Cohoon, a former hairdresser, there’s a good chance that some of your hair was turned into art and exhibited in Leila’s Hair Museum.

Leila’s Hair Museum is a sight to see! It has more than 400 wreaths made from braided hair and over 2,000 pieces of jewelry crafted from human hair.

She has hair as old as the 17th century and even a few locks from late President Lincoln and Marilyn Monroe. The fun part about visiting the museum is getting to meet Leila and learn all about her art. There’s a story behind each piece.

Accommodation: Where to stay in Independence

Address: 1333 S Noland Rd, Independence, MO 64055

27: The Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum, Gatlinburg, Tennessee

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Shake up your travel plans by adding a stop to one of the unique travel destinations in the US: The Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum. It’s a peculiar collection located in Gatlinburg – there is also a sister museum overseas in Spain.

The Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum has more than 20,000 sets of shakers. The shakers come from all over the world and are designed like your favorite cartoon characters, celebrities, unique shops, vintage shakers, and more.

The shakers do more than just hold condiments, and the museum allows you to look at them as art. Try to find your favorite set on the shelves and stop by the gift shop to purchase shakers.

Address: 461 Brookside Village Way, Gatlinburg, TN 37738

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28: UFO Watchtower, Center, Colorado

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Take the family on one of the unique getaways in the USA to spot UFOS. Located in Center, Colorado, the UFO Watchtower is an elevated observation deck with unobstructed views for examining the sky for UFOs.

The UFO Watchtower is perfectly positioned in the middle of the San Luis Valley, away from light pollution. That means anything you see moving ahead could be a bird, a plane, or better yet, a UFO!

The site is also a campground for overnight stays. There are alien-themed objects around the site, and you’ll meet some interesting characters all in search of extraterrestrial life. The UFO Watchtower is open all year because you never know when we’ll get visitors from outer space.

Address: CO-17, Center, CO 81125

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29: World's Largest Chest of Drawers, High Point, North Carolina

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Planning a trip to High Point, North Carolina, is definitely one of the unique vacation ideas in the USA. It’s the only way that you’ll see the world’s largest chest of drawers.

It’s a roadside attraction that you can quickly drive past, but you can only appreciate its scale when you get out and stand beneath it. The world’s largest chest of drawers was built while remodeling an office building. The chest reaches 36-ft tall and even has 6-ft tall socks hanging out of the drawers.

Is it a coincidence that the chest of drawers is located near an area filled with furniture stores? It’s undoubtedly one way to attract people interested in furniture. And you can own the landmark because the building is for sale!

Address: 508 N Hamilton St, High Point, NC 27262

Also Read: Top Tourist Attractions in North Carolina

30: Hole in the Rock, Phoenix Arizona

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Hole in the Rock is definitely one of the cool places to visit in the US if you love the outdoors. Take a short hike to the landmark inside Papago Park, which has a naturally formed hole in the middle.

The Hole in the Rock trail is one of the most popular in Papago Park. It’s a short trail that gets you warmed up for the park. Since it’s one of the highest points, it offers the best view of the entire park landscape. Visitors are more than welcome to climb inside the cave-like hole for the incredible views.

Hole in the Rock was around by ancient tribes who used it as a calendar to mark the seasons. But today, it’s simply one of the most unique places to visit in the US.

Address: 625 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008

Also Read: Most Beautiful Hidden Gems in the USA and Top Phoenix Attractions and Things To Do

31: Mmuseumm, New York, New York

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Mmuseumm may be one of the smallest museums in the world, with the original being set in an elevator shaft. Although there is now a second wing of the museum that takes up a tiny room, it is a bit further down the road.

Mmuseumm is open 24/7, and you can view it by looking through a couple of peepholes. What you'll see is anybody's guess. It will mostly be objects from the modern era, like a journalistic record. However, the objects are always quite bizarre and get switched out quite a bit.

Address: 4 Cortlandt Alley, New York, NY 10013

Also Read: Top Tourist Attractions in New York

32: Secret Tiled Staircase, San Francisco, California

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San Francisco has a few tiled staircases, but one of the most unique places in the US remains well hidden: The Secret Tiled Staircase. The 16th Avenue Staircase is virtually in the middle of nowhere; well, there would normally be no reason for tourists to go there.

Those who do will see a beautiful tiled staircase, which, as they climb, will give them stunning views of the whole of San Francisco. It is worth noting that every mural on this staircase was donated by local community members, too, so it is a real community attraction.

Address: 16th Ave, San Francisco, CA 94122

Also Read: Top Tourist Attractions in San Francisco

33: Hamilton Pool, Dripping Springs, Texas

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We don't know about you, but we love to swim in weird and unique places, and the Hamilton Pool at Dripping Springs in Texas may be one of the more unique. Here, you can swim in a beautiful emerald-green pool. Not only that, but you'll be swimming in an incredibly stunning area shaded by some rock faces. You will need to book in advance to swim here, and it does get incredibly popular.

Address: 24300Hamilton PoolRoadDripping Springs,Texas78620

34: House on the Rock, Spring Green, Wisconsin

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We guess the best way to describe 'House on the Rock' is as a museum house. Opened in the 1950s, this house is a collection of unique rooms. Lots of them, although the real highlight is the Infinity Room, which will send you 218 feet over the cliff. 3000 windows there will give you a view of the surrounding area.

There's so much crazy stuff happening inside this place, including automated musical instruments, an exhibit dedicated to the sea, and a carousel. Trust us – everybody will find something to do here at one of the most unusual attractions in the USA.

Address: 400 Springs Dr, Spring Green, WI 53588

35: Philadelphia's Magic Gardens, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Top 51 Unusual Places to Visit in the USA That Will Amaze You (35)
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If you love unique art galleries, then this may be one of the top hidden gems in the USA for you. The Magic Gardens in Philadelphia covers three lots and includes indoor art galleries and outdoor exhibits. In total, there are over 3,000 square feet of artwork showcasing talented artists from all over the world.

Address: 1020 South St, Philadelphia, PA 19147

Also Read: Top Tourist Attractions in Philadelphia

36: Ah-Shi-Sle-Pah Wilderness, Bloomfield, New Mexico

Top 51 Unusual Places to Visit in the USA That Will Amaze You (36)
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The Ah-Shi-Sle-Pah Wilderness is desolate. Millions and millions of years ago, water flowed through this region. Now it is badlands and has no water at all. However, the water that once flowed through this region has left lots and lots of water-carved hills (made of clay) around the area, and the sight is stunning. It is worth taking the trip here. It isn't always at the top of the tourist's 'to-do' list, but we reckon you could grab some decent photos.

Address: NM-57, Bloomfield, NM 87413

37: President Heads, Williamsburg, Virginia

Top 51 Unusual Places to Visit in the USA That Will Amaze You (37)
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No. Not the President Heads that you're thinking of. These are in Virginia in a park with rather large statues of many of the early president's heads. The attraction is a bit harder to visit than it would have been earlier this century since the original place went bankrupt. The heads are now located on private land, so you'll need to book a tour if you want to head here, and they don't happen that frequently. However, if you can get on a tour, you'll be enjoying some decent sculptures.

Address: 8212 Croaker Rd. Williamsburg, VA 23188

Also Read: Top Tourist Attractions in Williamsburg

38: Museum of Sex, Manhattan, New York

Top 51 Unusual Places to Visit in the USA That Will Amaze You (38)
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New York has a museum for everything, so why not sex? The Museum of Sex is packed full of exhibits that will walk you through the history of sexuality from the old days to the modern period. Exhibits change a bit here, but it is always a true joy to wander through. Although, this may not be a museum that you'll want to take your kids to.

Address: 233 5th Ave, New York, NY 10016

Also Read: Top Tourist Attractions in NYC

39: Lost Sea, Sweetwater, Tennessee

Top 51 Unusual Places to Visit in the USA That Will Amaze You (39)
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The Lost Sea is one of our favorite attractions on this list, just because reaching it feels like an adventure. Your journey toward the Lost Sea will take you through old caverns and narrow walkways. However, the journey will be worth it. Once you reach the end, you'll take a boat ride on the largest underwater lake in the United States. The tours book up quickly, so if this sounds exciting to you, then go and have a look!

Address: 140Lost SeaRoadSweetwater,TN 37874

40: Watts Towers, Los Angeles, California

Top 51 Unusual Places to Visit in the USA That Will Amaze You (40)
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The Watts Towers are an art exhibit created by Sabato Rodia over a span of 33 years (he stopped building in 1954 and died 10 years later). He built everything himself. The main highlight will be the towers, with the tallest standing at a whopping 99.5 feet tall. Those who are lucky enough to visit the area will be treated to beautiful folk artwork, all created by the original artists, including tons and tons of murals.

Address: 1727 E 107th St, Los Angeles, CA 90002

Also Read: Top Tourist Attractions in Los Angeles

41: Museum of the Weird, Austin, Texas

Top 51 Unusual Places to Visit in the USA That Will Amaze You (41)
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The Museum of the Weird advertising gives old-school freakshow vibes; honestly, it isn't too far removed from that. Although thankfully, there are no human exhibits. Not alive ones, at least. This truly is one of the most bizarre attractions in America.

The Museum of the Weird has shrunken heads, preserved odd animal bodies, and a supposed mermaid. Sure, not everything in this museum is quite 'real' (although it seems so), but it is a great trip and isn't too expensive to get in.

Address: 412 E 6th St, Austin, TX 78701

Also Read: Top Tourist Attractions in Austin

42: The Grotto, Portland, Oregon

Top 51 Unusual Places to Visit in the USA That Will Amaze You (42)
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The Grotto, in Portland, is an attraction designed for Christians. It is a 62-acre sanctuary designed for relaxation and prayer. Once you walk in, you can see how people would find it relaxing. There are beautiful views, water, and lots and lots of flowers. There are events throughout the day. While the non-religious (specifically Catholic) are welcome, you should respect the people there, most of whom will be praying.

Address: 8840 NE Skidmore St, Portland, OR 97220

Also Read: Top Tourist Attractions in Portland

43: American Sign Museum, Cincinnati, Ohio

Top 51 Unusual Places to Visit in the USA That Will Amaze You (43)
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Turns out that we Americans can turn pretty much anything into a museum and make it look good, as the American Sign Museum is proof. The American Sign Museum will walk you through the history of signs, from the early wood-build days to the extravagant neon light monstrosities (or, some would call them monstrosities). The museum is incredibly well laid out and has plenty to see. It is like walking through a very modern history.

Address: 1330 Monmouth Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45225

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Also Read: Top Tourist Attractions in Cincinnati

44: Mystery Castle, Phoenix, Arizona

Top 51 Unusual Places to Visit in the USA That Will Amaze You (44)
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The Mystery Castle in Phoenix, Arizona, was built by a father when he believed his daughter was dying. He wanted to give his princess a castle. The castle is incredibly unique in look (it looks very European-inspired), but also in its construction materials.

It was assembled with whatever materials were to hand, including car parts, telephone poles, and more. Much of it was never finished, unfortunately. However, it still has the parts you would typically associate with a castle, including a dungeon.

Address: 800 E Mineral Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85042

45: Casa Bonita, Lakewood, Colorado

Top 51 Unusual Places to Visit in the USA That Will Amaze You (45)
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Casa Bonita is regarded as the 'Greatest Restaurant in the World' (it isn't, but the food is good) and is a much-loved area for Colorado residents. If you've ever seen South Park, you will know this place plays a significant role in many storylines.

In fact, it is so loved by the South Park crew that the creators of South Park now own the restaurant. The interior is stunning, and honestly, if you head to Colorado without taking a trip to Casa Bonita, people will look down on you. It is that loved there.

Address: 6715 W Colfax Ave, Lakewood, CO 80214

46: Pit of Buffalo Bones, Vore, Wyoming

Top 51 Unusual Places to Visit in the USA That Will Amaze You (46)
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Centuries and centuries ago, the Native Americans used to stampede buffalo into this pit. It was deep enough to instantly kill the buffalo, providing ready access to their meat. Of course, many of the bones were left behind, and you can see them hanging around the bottom of the pit. It is said the remains of over 20,000 buffalo remain here (and a few more have already been removed). It is an active archaeological site, but it can still be visited.

Address: Old US Hwy 14, Vore, WY

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47: The Clown Motel, Tonopah, Nevada

Top 51 Unusual Places to Visit in the USA That Will Amaze You (47)
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If you hate clowns, you might want to steer clear of this one of the weird places in America. The Clown Motel is dedicated to them, with each room brightly decorated. Plus, there is a clown gift shop and a clown museum. It's probably not a place that you'll want to roll into after a long, hard day on the road and with a fear of clowns. Still, for a motel, it provides a comfortable night's stay.

Address: 521 N Main St, Tonopah, NV 89049

48: Gun Totem, Providence, Rhode Island

Top 51 Unusual Places to Visit in the USA That Will Amaze You (48)
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The Gun Totem can be found right outside the courthouse. It is a combination of concrete and over 1,000 reclaimed guns that have been encased in that concrete. It was a result of the Pittsburgh gun buy-back program. It only takes a few minutes to look at but will offer a view that will stick with you for the rest of your life.

Address: S Main St, Providence, RI 02903

Also Read: Top Tourist Attractions in Providence

49: World's Largest Peanut, Ashburn, Georgia

Top 51 Unusual Places to Visit in the USA That Will Amaze You (49)
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Unfortunately, not a real peanut. However, that would have made a mighty fine addition to a list of the most unusual places in America. However, let's be honest, a statue of a peanut is probably much odder. This large peanut will only take a few minutes to look at, but it is a good photo opportunity. Plus, it'll remain the world's largest peanut because who will take the time to create something bigger?

Address: Sylvia Drive, Ashburn, GA

50: Octopus Tree of Oregon, Tillamook, Oregon

Top 51 Unusual Places to Visit in the USA That Will Amaze You (50)
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This spruce tree may be one of the more unique spruces in the world. It is about 300 years old and unique in that it has no primary trunk; instead, it has loads of small trunks coming off a 'core.' It is named one of the most popular attractions in Oregon, so it is worth checking out. Plus, you have to go through a beautiful area to get there, so it can't be beaten!

Address: Cape Meares Lighthouse Dr, Tillamook, OR 97141

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51: The Center of the Universe, Tulsa, Oklahoma

Top 51 Unusual Places to Visit in the USA That Will Amaze You (51)
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The Center of the Universe is a rather unique spot. No, it isn't the center of the universe (as much as the residents of Tulsa would like you to believe); instead, it is a small concrete circle. Stand on it and say something. The echo will be incredibly loud, but the best part? For some reason, nobody outside that little circle can hear you. Well, they can, but it will be distorted. Shout whatever you want.

Address: 1 S Boston Ave, Tulsa, OK 74103

Also Read: Top Tourist Attractions in Tulsa

Ready to explore the unique places in America?

The USA is full of unique and unusual places to explore. From natural wonders to hidden gems, every corner of this vast country has something unique to offer. Take the time to research some of the unusual sites in your area and uncover the hidden treasures they have to offer. You never know what kind of adventure awaits.

Other unique places to explore

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Top 51 Unusual Places to Visit in the USA That Will Amaze You (2024)

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