Roadside attractions are having a big year in 2026. Route 66 turns 100, America turns 250, and classic attractions are getting makeovers and festivals. Here’s how to build an easy, road-trip-friendly loop through 26 stops that are ready for the spotlight.
Key takeaways:
- 2026 is a “super year” for roadside stops. Route 66’s 100th birthday and America’s 250th mean new visitor centers, fresh murals, and special events.
- The “best places to visit in the USA” aren’t just big cities. Roadside giants, folk-art castles, and strange museums tell a different side of the American story.
- Mix quick pull-offs with deeper stops. Some of these are 10-minute photo ops; others need half a day or more. Building the right mix keeps your trip fun, not rushed.
Why you should visit these places
From classic Route 66 pull-offs to “world’s largest” statues and folk-art fever dreams, these 26 stops show off a playful, roadside side of America. They’re easy to plug into almost any drive (car, van, or RV) and most sit just minutes from major highways.
Use this list as a menu: pick a couple near your home base, or string a bunch together into one big loop.
Route 66 and desert oddballs
- Blue Whale of Catoosa – Catoosa, Oklahoma
- The Big Texan Steak Ranch – Amarillo, Texas
- Cadillac Ranch – Amarillo, Texas
- Devil’s Rope Museum – McLean, Texas
- The Thing? – Dragoon, Arizona
- World’s Largest Pistachio – Alamogordo, New Mexico
Great Plains giants and “World’s Largest” stops
- Wall Drug – Wall, South Dakota
- World’s Only Corn Palace – Mitchell, South Dakota
- Carhenge – Alliance, Nebraska
- Giant Concrete Prairie Dog – near Badlands, South Dakota
- World’s Largest Buffalo – Jamestown, North Dakota
- World’s Largest Easel – Goodland, Kansas
- World’s Largest Ball of Twine – Cawker City, Kansas
- Jolly Green Giant – Blue Earth, Minnesota
Wild builds, strange art, and city weirdness
- House on the Rock – Spring Green, Wisconsin
- City Museum – St. Louis, Missouri
- Bishop Castle – Rye, Colorado
- Salvation Mountain – near Niland, California
- Fremont Troll – Seattle, Washington
- World’s Biggest Basket – Newark, Ohio
Coastal icons, gardens, mysteries, and elephants
- World’s Largest Catsup Bottle – Collinsville, Illinois
- The Big Duck – Flanders, New York
- Prada Marfa – near Valentine, Texas
- Longwood Gardens – Kennett Square, Pennsylvania
- Mystery Spot – Santa Cruz, California
- Lucy the Elephant – Margate City, New Jersey
Let’s learn more about each road trip destination.
1–6: Route 66 and desert oddballs
1. Blue Whale of Catoosa – Catoosa, Oklahoma
This bright blue concrete whale has watched over Route 66 travelers since the 1970s. In 2026, it’s leveling up from a quick photo stop to a small park with trails, lights, and more ways to linger by the pond.
- The City of Catoosa has transformed the site into a proper heritage park.
- Thanks to Route 66 Revitalization grants, 2026 visitors will find upgraded restrooms, paved walking paths, and a refreshed gift shop operation.
- Keep an eye out for the “Mushroom Patch”, which is being restored to its former glory for the centennial.
Things to remember
- There may be short closures while construction wraps up before summer 2026.
- This works well as a leg-stretch stop for RVers on I-44 / Route 66. Expect basic parking, not a full RV park, right on site.
- Plan a little extra time if you want to walk the new paths instead of just snapping a fast photo.
2. The Big Texan Steak Ranch – Amarillo, Texas
The Big Texan is a neon-lit “everything is bigger here” complex: steaks, motel, RV park, brewery, and live music all in one stop. In 2026, it becomes a major social hub for Route 66’s big birthday.
- Famous for the 72-oz steak challenge, complete with a stage and live feed.
- Has its own RV park, motel, and beer garden so you can eat, sleep, and stay for the party.
- Hosts the “Big Texan Soiree” as part of the Texas Route 66 Festival in June 2026.
Things to remember
- If you’re in an RV, you can overnight right on site; reserve early for June festival dates.
- Expect crowds and long waits during the steak challenge rush and festival weeks.
- It’s right off I-40, so it’s easy to reach even on a long driving day.
3. Cadillac Ranch – Amarillo, Texas
Ten Cadillacs, nose-down in a field, covered in layers of spray paint. Cadillac Ranch is pure roadside chaos and one of the most famous art stops on the Mother Road.
- Created in 1974 by the art group Ant Farm; the cars share the tilt of the Great Pyramid of Giza.
- Visitors are encouraged to bring spray paint and add their own color.
- Acts as an anchor stop during the Texas Route 66 Festival.
Things to remember
- Parking is on a frontage road and the path can be muddy; watch your shoes.
- There’s no gate or fee, but there are also no restrooms or services at the field.
- Don’t spray the fences, ground, or neighboring property. Keep the paint on the cars.
Pro tips: Don’t just bring one can of spray paint; bring a half-used can to finish off. Also, be prepared for the heavy scent of aerosol in the air. When you leave, do not leave your empty cans on the ground (a major local complaint); throw them into the dumpster.
4. Devil’s Rope Museum – McLean, Texas
Right as you roll into the Texas Panhandle, this low-key museum turns barbed wire into a deep dive on the history of the West. It’s quiet, detailed, and the opposite of flashy.
- Dedicated to “devil’s rope” (barbed wire) and its role in fencing the open range.
- Serves as a de facto welcome center for Old Route 66 through McLean.
- Hosts the annual Barbwire Show & Reunion, a big meet-up for collectors.
Things to remember
- Great “brain break” stop between flashier Amarillo sights.
- Allow 45–60 minutes if you like reading signs and displays.
- Easy parking for larger rigs, but check hours before you roll in.
5. The Thing? – Dragoon, Arizona
For miles along I-10, billboards ask, “What is The Thing?” The answer used to be a dusty shed full of oddities. Now it’s a full indoor museum that leans into aliens, dinosaurs, and one big “mystery” in glass.
- Fully revamped in 2018 into a climate-controlled attraction with story-driven exhibits.
- Builds a playful conspiracy about aliens, dinosaurs, and hidden history.
- Still ends with “The Thing” itself in a display case.
Things to remember
- It’s attached to a modern travel center, so it’s handy for fuel, snacks, and restrooms.
- Expect an admission fee and a walkthrough that takes 45–60 minutes.
- RVs can usually park around the edges of the lot; follow posted signs.
6. World’s Largest Pistachio – Alamogordo, New Mexico
A 30-foot pistachio statue stands guard over a real working orchard and tasting room near White Sands. It’s part photo op, part farm visit, and all about salty snacks.
- Built as a tribute to the farm’s founder; made of concrete and fiberglass.
- Offers low-cost farm tours by tram through the pistachio trees and vines.
- Shop sells nuts, brittle, ice cream, and local treats.
Things to remember
- A great add-on stop if you’re already visiting White Sands National Park.
- Easy pull-in for trailers and RVs, but the lot can be busy mid-day.
- Farm tours are short, perfect for a break between long highway stretches.
7–14: Great Plains giants and “World’s Largest” stops
7. Wall Drug – Wall, South Dakota
Born from a simple “Free Ice Water” sign, Wall Drug is now a full roadside village next to Badlands National Park. Think café, shops, art, and a “backyard” packed with photo sets.
- Sprawls across 76,000 square feet of stores, food, and attractions.
- The Backyard includes giant statues and a roaring T-Rex for family photos.
- Perfect lunch and fuel stop before or after the Badlands.
Things to remember
- Summer can be very busy; plan for lines at peak hours.
- Great place to cool off and reset if you’re camping in or near the Badlands.
- Parking lots can handle big rigs but can feel tight mid-summer; follow staff directions.
8. World’s Only Corn Palace – Mitchell, South Dakota
The Corn Palace is part arena, part roadside showpiece. Every year, its outer walls get new murals made entirely from corn and grains. In 2026, the designs lean into 250 years of U.S. history.
- Exterior murals are stripped and rebuilt each year using naturally colored corn.
- 2026 theme focuses on “250 Years of America,” with historic scenes.
- The building doubles as a local events center for games and concerts.
Things to remember
- If you visit in late summer, you may see crews stapling new corn into place.
- Easy highway detour with big parking areas for buses and RVs.
- Free to admire from outside; check for tours or events inside.
9. Carhenge – Alliance, Nebraska
Stonehenge, but with cars. Carhenge uses gray-painted vintage vehicles to copy the shape and scale of the famous stone circle, set against the wide Nebraska sky.
- Built in 1987 as a memorial, using old American cars.
- Extra art pieces, like the “Ford Seasons,” turn the field into a small sculpture park.
- Maintains a uniform gray color, unlike the graffiti layers at Cadillac Ranch.
Things to remember
- Open year-round and free; expect simple facilities.
- Great sunset stop if you’re boondocking nearby.
- Bring layers. Plains wind can be harsh even in shoulder seasons.
10. Giant Concrete Prairie Dog – near Badlands, South Dakota
This chunky concrete prairie dog marks a real prairie dog town right by Badlands National Park. The statue itself is fun, but the live colony is the real draw.
- 12-foot, 6-ton statue signals the Ranch Store and its prairie dog field.
- You can buy peanuts to feed the wild, but very used-to-humans, prairie dogs.
- Sits strategically on the road to the park to catch visitor traffic.
Things to remember
- Be gentle with the animals; follow all posted rules on feeding.
- Handy snack and restroom break on your way to or from the Badlands.
- Watch pets closely. Prairie dog towns are tempting but not safe for dogs.
11. World’s Largest Buffalo – Jamestown, North Dakota
“Dakota Thunder,” a huge concrete buffalo, looks out over a museum and a live herd that sometimes includes a rare white bison.
- Stands 26 feet tall and anchors the National Buffalo Museum grounds.
- Symbol of bison recovery on the Plains and the town itself.
Things to remember
- Quick photo stop that pairs well with a museum visit.
- Plenty of room for rigs to turn around, but check signs for bus/RV zones.
- Give the live herd lots of space and never walk toward bison.
12. World’s Largest Easel – Goodland, Kansas
An 80-foot steel easel holds a giant Van Gogh “sunflowers” painting above the prairie. It turns the highway itself into an open-air gallery.
- Part of an international “Van Gogh Project” with only a few matching easels worldwide.
- Built to handle strong plains wind with a fiberglass-coated “canvas.”
Things to remember
- Best viewed in daylight; it’s a fast pull-off from I-70.
- Plan 10–20 minutes for photos and a stretch.
- Combine with a fuel or grocery stop in town.
13. World’s Largest Ball of Twine – Cawker City, Kansas
In Cawker City, the ball of sisal twine never stops growing. Locals and visitors keep adding to it at an annual Twine-a-thon.
- Holds the title for largest community-built ball of twine.
- Growth continues every year thanks to town events and visitors.
- Twine-a-thon 2026 lands on the third weekend of August.
Things to remember
- If you want to add twine yourself, aim for mid-August.
- This is a very small town. Services are limited but parking is easy.
- Fun leg-stretch on a long Kansas drive day.
14. Jolly Green Giant – Blue Earth, Minnesota
This 55-foot-tall green figure towers over a welcome park tied to the local canning industry.
- Statue honors the Green Giant brand and local farm history.
- A nearby welcome center and museum add context and memorabilia.
Things to remember
- Expect family photo time; kids love climbing on the base.
- Easy stop from the highway with plenty of parking.
- Check opening hours if you want to see inside the museum.
15–20: Wild builds, strange art, and city weirdness
15. House on the Rock – Spring Green, Wisconsin
House on the Rock feels like stepping into someone’s very intense dream. It’s a maze of dim hallways, strange collections, and a sky-high Infinity Room that hangs out over a bluff.
- Features the Infinity Room, the world’s largest indoor carousel, and a huge sea-monster display.
- 2026 season runs from March through early November, with pre-season ticket sales.
Things to remember
- The “ultimate” tour takes 3+ hours and a lot of walking; not just a quick stop.
- Parking is straightforward, but consider a towed car if your rig is very large; roads in the area are winding.
- The vibe can be intense; plan something outdoors afterward to reset.
16. City Museum – St. Louis, Missouri
City Museum is a giant climbable sculpture made from old factory parts, planes, and more. It feels like a playground for all ages, with tunnels, slides, and a rooftop bus hanging over the edge.
- Located in a former shoe factory, reimagined as a hands-on art maze.
- Adds a big new “Labyrinth” area and new exhibits leading into 2026.
Things to remember
- Wear closed-toe shoes and clothes you don’t mind scuffing.
- City parking garages may be easier for vans than big RVs. Consider parking further out and using transit.
- Plan at least half a day if you have kids or like to explore every corner.
17. Bishop Castle – Rye, Colorado
One man has been stacking stone and steel into a wild, soaring castle in the Colorado woods for decades. It’s dramatic, quirky, and very much “enter at your own risk.”
- Built almost entirely by Jim Bishop over nearly 60 years.
- Iron walkways, towers, and spires offer serious heights and views.
- Free to visit, open most of the time, with a donation box.
Things to remember
- There are no safety rails to modern code; this is not ideal for small kids or anyone with a fear of heights.
- Parking is informal; bigger rigs may want to visit on a weekday when it’s quieter.
- Treat it like an active work site. Watch your step and follow any posted rules.
18. Salvation Mountain – near Niland, California
Salvation Mountain is a bright, hand-painted adobe mound covered in colorful messages and Bible verses at the edge of the desert.
- Built by Leonard Knight as a folk-art tribute, now run by a small non-profit.
- Constant repairs are needed as sun and rain wear down the paint and adobe.
Things to remember
- Respect marked paths; the surface is fragile and cracks easily.
- No camping right at the mountain; nearby Slab City and other desert spots see dispersed camping.
- Bring plenty of water and sun gear; shade is limited.
19. Fremont Troll – Seattle, Washington
Under a bridge in Seattle, the Fremont Troll clutches a real VW Beetle in one stone hand. This playful public sculpture turned a once-troubled spot into a neighborhood hangout.
- Built in the ’90s and now heavily photographed by locals and visitors.
- Local groups maintain the sculpture and nearby park space, especially ahead of 2026 World Cup traffic.
Things to remember
- Street parking is tight; large RVs may want to park elsewhere and rideshare in.
- Expect crowds and people climbing on the troll for photos.
- Noise from the bridge and traffic is constant. This is a quick stop, not a picnic zone.
20. World’s Biggest Basket – Newark, Ohio
The former Longaberger headquarters looks exactly like a giant basket, complete with huge heated handles. The offices are empty now, but the building still stands by the roadside.
- Classic sample of “mimetic architecture”; a building shaped like what it sells.
- Vacant since 2016, with hotel plans stalled.
Things to remember
- You’ll view it from outside only; there are no regular public tours.
- Best as a quick detour on a drive day through Ohio.
- Pull off safely for photos; don’t block driveways or private lots.
21–26: Coastal icons, gardens, mysteries, and elephants
21. World’s Largest Catsup Bottle – Collinsville, Illinois
This tall water tower painted as a catsup bottle rises over town and celebrates mid-century roadside style.
- 170-foot-tall tower built in 1949 as a Brooks Catsup ad and water tank.
- Home to an annual festival and “Catsup Bottle Appreciation Day.”
Things to remember
- You can’t go inside; it’s a drive-by or pull-off photo stop.
- Festival dates around June/July 2026 will be busier; check event plans as you route through Illinois.
- Combine with other Route 66 stops in the state.
22. The Big Duck – Flanders, New York
A white duck-shaped building once used to sell actual ducks now holds a small gift shop and history displays. It’s so important to architecture nerds that it gave “duck buildings” their name.
- Listed as a National Historic Landmark and tied into local 2026 history events.
- Hosts a charming holiday lighting event each year.
Things to remember
- Parking is simple but limited; this is a short stop on a Long Island drive.
- Check opening hours if you want to go inside the shop.
- Pair with nearby beaches or wineries for a fuller day.
23. Prada Marfa – near Valentine, Texas
On a lonely West Texas highway, Prada Marfa looks like a luxury store frozen in time. The door never opens; it’s art, not retail.
- Built in 2005 as a “permanent” land-art piece with real Prada items inside.
- Now actively maintained instead of left to decay, due to its popularity.
Things to remember
- There are no restrooms or services on site; it’s just the building and the desert.
- Sunrise and sunset light are best for photos.
- Roadside pull-off is basic; keep your rig fully off the pavement and watch for traffic.
Current Status: While the structure is maintained, it’s a frequent target for vandalism. You might arrive to find it pristine, or you might find it covered in graffiti before the next cleaning crew arrives. It’s part of the “living art” nature of the site.
24. Longwood Gardens – Kennett Square, Pennsylvania
Longwood is a huge display garden with fountains, glasshouses, and careful seasonal shows. By 2026, a major new expansion called “Longwood Reimagined” will be fully grown-in and ready to explore.
- Adds a new 17-acre area with a floating conservatory and fresh water features.
- Hosts science talks and plant-focused events in early 2026.
Things to remember
- Tickets often sell out on weekends and during fountain shows; reserve ahead.
- The parking lot can get crowded; arriving early helps if you’re driving a larger vehicle.
- Plan at least half a day to explore without feeling rushed.
25. Mystery Spot – Santa Cruz, California
The Mystery Spot is a classic “gravity hill” attraction where tilted rooms and odd angles play tricks on your brain. Guides lean, balls roll “uphill,” and your sense of balance goes a little off.
- Famous among California roadside stops for its “gravitational anomaly.”
- The experience is entirely guided (about 45 minutes), which is part of the charm (the guides are trained to be skeptical, funny, and entertaining).
Things to remember
- Advance online booking is strongly recommended, especially weekends and summer.
- Parking is tight and there’s a fee; big RVs should call ahead or park down the hill if allowed.
- Expect stairs and uneven ground; good shoes help.
26. Lucy the Elephant – Margate City, New Jersey
Lucy is a six-story elephant by the beach and one of the oldest roadside attractions in the country. You can walk inside and climb up for views of the shore.
- Built in 1881; now a National Historic Landmark.
- Recently restored on the outside to be ready for 2026 and beyond.
- Hosts an annual “birthday party” in July with games and treats.
Things to remember
- Tours run on a schedule; check times and consider buying tickets ahead in peak summer.
- Street parking near the beach can be tight for bigger rigs; arrive early or look for nearby lots.
- Combine Lucy with a beach day or boardwalk visit in nearby Atlantic City.
Frequently asked questions
Because many of them are getting upgrades, festivals, or special attention tied to Route 66’s 100th and America’s 250th birthdays. You’ll see fresh murals, new visitor centers, and one-time events that make 2026 feel special.
Yes, expect unprecedented crowds. For iconic stops like the Blue Whale of Catoosa or The Big Texan, aim to arrive before 9:00 AM or after 4:00 PM to avoid the midday tour bus crush.
Yes, since most are right off major highways with simple parking lots or pull-offs. Some, like the Big Texan, even include on-site RV parks. A few urban stops (like City Museum or the Fremont Troll) are easier if you park outside the core and rideshare in.
Some bigger sites, like House on the Rock, City Museum, Longwood Gardens, the Mystery Spot, and Lucy the Elephant, use timed or dated tickets, especially in peak seasons. Check ahead so you’re not stuck at the gate.
You can still be flexible, but 2026 will be busier than a normal year. It’s smart to lock in key stops, must-have campgrounds, and special events, then keep some flex days for surprise roadside finds.
Yes. You can create a long cross-country route that links Route 66 stops, Great Plains “world’s largest” sites, Midwest oddities, and coastal icons into a single multi-week drive.
Plan your 2026 road trip with the Roadtrippers app
Ready to turn this list into a real route? Use the Roadtrippers app to:
- Map a custom path through all 26 places, or just your favorites
- See drive times and fuel stops between roadside attractions
- Spot campgrounds, RV parks, and overnight parking options nearby
- Add notes and photos for each stop so you remember why you picked it
- Share your trip plan with friends or family traveling in their own rigs
Open Roadtrippers, start a new trip called “Best Places to Visit in the USA 2026”, drop in a few of these attractions, and let the app fill in the gaps with parks, diners, and scenic detours. That way, you’ll be pulling over, stepping out, and actually enjoying your 2026 with roadtrips.