The Midwest’s Quirkiest Attractions That Your Kids Will Love (And So Will You)
Looking for unique family-friendly stops on your Midwest road trip? The heartland is full of quirky, fun attractions that both kids and adults can enjoy. From towering sculptures to unexpected roadside gems, these destinations promise memorable adventures for everyone. Buckle up and explore these must-see spots!
Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox – Bemidji, Minnesota
The iconic giant lumberjack and his trusty blue ox are a must-see in Bemidji. These larger-than-life statues have been luring families to snap fun photos since the 1930s. Kids will love running around the park, while adults can explore the history of Paul Bunyan at the visitors’ center nearby. It’s a perfect pit stop for stretching your legs and grabbing a memorable picture.
Carhenge – Alliance, Nebraska
Imagine Stonehenge, but replace the ancient stones with vintage cars. That’s Carhenge for you! This quirky roadside attraction is fascinating for kids and parents alike. The painted cars stacked in a circle make for a unique photo op, and the surrounding sculptures make this an open-air gallery. Bonus: Admission is free, making it a budget-friendly stop.
The World’s Largest Ball of Twine – Cawker City, Kansas
Yes, it’s exactly what it sounds like—a massive ball of twine weighing over 20,000 pounds! This small-town marvel is quirky, fun, and a little mind-boggling. Kids love the sheer size of it, and adults can appreciate the dedication it took to create (and maintain) this unusual roadside wonder. It’s one of those places you’ll always remember visiting, no matter how quick the stop.
House on the Rock – Spring Green, Wisconsin
This jaw-dropping attraction is part museum, part whimsical experience. It’s filled with crazy collections, including a giant carousel, model ships, and rooms that seem to defy logic. Kids will be amazed at the fantastical displays, while parents will enjoy the sheer creativity of it all. Note: Plan for at least a couple of hours to see everything—it’s much bigger than it looks.
The Jolly Green Giant Statue – Blue Earth, Minnesota
Standing tall at 55 feet, the Jolly Green Giant is a fun, kitschy stop for families. Kids will be in awe of the towering statue, while adults can recall fond memories of the iconic mascot. Don’t forget to check out the nearby gift shop for some quirky souvenirs to commemorate your visit.
The World’s Largest Frying Pan – Brandon, Iowa
Here’s a stop that’s both quirky and Instagram-worthy. The world’s largest frying pan, measuring 9 feet across, will have your kids giggling and your phone full of photos. It’s a quick stop but adds an extra layer of fun to any Midwest road trip. Plus, it’s right off the highway, so there’s no detour necessary.
American Gothic House – Eldon, Iowa
Fans of Grant Wood’s famous painting, American Gothic, can visit the actual house depicted in the artwork. While the history will intrigue adults, the real fun for kids is dressing up in costumes provided at the visitor center to recreate the iconic scene. It’s a fun blend of art, history, and silliness that’s great for all ages.
The Spam Museum – Austin, Minnesota
If you’ve ever wondered about the history of Spam (the kind you eat, not the emails), this museum has you covered. Interactive exhibits, friendly guides, and even a kids’ play area make it a surprisingly fun stop. You might leave with a new appreciation for this canned classic—and maybe a souvenir or two from the gift shop.
World’s Largest Rocking Chair – Casey, Illinois
Casey is known for its big things in a small town theme, and the world’s largest rocking chair is one of its standout attractions. It’s over 56 feet tall and guaranteed to wow the kids. While you’re in town, check out other giant items, like the world’s largest wind chime and mailbox. It’s a quirky family adventure packed into a small-town vibe.
The Mitchell Corn Palace – Mitchell, South Dakota
This one-of-a-kind building is covered in murals made entirely of corn. Yes, corn! The Corn Palace changes its design annually, so there’s always something new to admire. Inside, you’ll find exhibits on the area’s agricultural history and plenty of kid-friendly activities. It’s fun, educational, and totally unique.
Jurustic Park – Marshfield, Wisconsin
This outdoor sculpture park is home to dozens of metal creatures crafted from reclaimed materials. Kids will love the friendly (and not-so-friendly) “monsters,” while adults can enjoy chatting with the artist behind these whimsical creations. It’s a little off the beaten path but well worth the detour.
Dick’s Dinosaur Park – Rapid City, South Dakota
This retro roadside gem features giant dinosaur sculptures perched on a hillside. Though it’s an older attraction, it’s still a hit with families. Kids love exploring the life-sized dinos, and the panoramic views of Rapid City from the park are a bonus for parents. It’s free and perfect for a quick break.
The Kitsch-Inspired Mars Cheese Castle – Kenosha, Wisconsin
Part roadside attraction, part cheese emporium, this quirky castle is a must-stop for anyone traveling through Wisconsin. Kids will be wowed by the castle-shaped building, and parents can stock up on delicious local cheeses and snacks. Grab a bite in the café or pick up a cheesy souvenir—literally!
World’s Largest Catsup Bottle – Collinsville, Illinois
This quirky water tower shaped like a catsup bottle offers a fun photo op for the family. While you can’t go inside, the adjacent museum and gift shop add a little extra charm to the stop. It’s a short but sweet attraction to mix into your Midwest adventure.
Kandiyohi County’s Big Fish – Spicer, Minnesota
This oversized fish sculpture is perfect for kids who love a little whimsy. It’s shaped like a leaping muskie and is a great spot for family photos. If you’re looking for a place to stretch your legs, there’s also a small park nearby with picnic spots and walking trails.
