13 Delightfully Strange Museums Along The Historic Route 66
Route 66 isn’t just a highway; it’s a journey through America’s heart, filled with quirky surprises around every corner. As you drive through this legendary route, you’ll encounter museums that showcase the strange and the fascinating.
Ever wanted to visit a barbed wire museum or admire a collection of banana-themed art? Well, on Route 66, you can do just that!
Each stop is a reminder that the road less traveled often leads to the most unexpected and delightful experiences.
1. Barbed Wire Museum
It’s not every day you stumble upon a museum dedicated entirely to barbed wire. I found myself in McLean, Texas, and couldn’t resist stepping inside. Barbed wire, while seemingly mundane, has a fascinating history.
This museum showcases an astonishing variety of styles. Who knew there were so many types? The displays are intriguing, and the stories behind them are even better.
If you’re curious about frontiers and ranching, this place is a goldmine of knowledge. Don’t forget to chat with the locals; their tales bring the exhibits to life in a way nothing else can.
2. Banana Museum
How often do you see a museum entirely devoted to bananas? Located in Hesperia, California, this delightful spot is a joy. With over 20,000 banana-related items, it’s a feast for the eyes.
From banana-shaped salt shakers to banana attire, the collection is more extensive than you’d imagine. Each item tells a story, and the curator’s enthusiasm is contagious. You can’t help but smile as you wander through aisles brimming with yellow.
Take a selfie with the giant banana sculpture—it’s a must! And if you’re a banana fan, you’ll feel right at home among fellow enthusiasts.
3. Route 66 Car Museum
Did you ever dream of cruising down Route 66 in a classic car? In Springfield, Missouri, you can step back in time. This museum displays some of the most iconic vehicles ever to grace the highway.
From the elegant to the downright quirky, each car has its own charm. It’s amazing how these beauties have been preserved. My favorite was the 1950s Cadillac, its sleek lines evoking a sense of freedom.
If you’re a car buff, this place will feel like heaven. Even if you’re not, the sheer nostalgia might just win you over.
4. UFO Museum
When it comes to extraterrestrial mysteries, Roswell is the place to be. The UFO Museum immerses you in the unexplained. With accounts of the infamous 1947 UFO incident, you’ll find yourself questioning reality.
The exhibits range from the serious to the playful, and it’s impossible not to be intrigued. I was particularly taken by the eyewitness testimonies and the detailed dioramas. These provide a glimpse into what might have been.
If you’re ever in Roswell, this museum is a must-visit. Prepare to have your beliefs challenged by artifacts and stories that defy explanation.
5. International Towing Museum
Where can you find a museum celebrating the humble tow truck? Chattanooga, Tennessee, proudly hosts this unique collection. It’s fascinating to see the evolution of towing from its early days to high-tech marvels of today.
The restored vintage tow trucks are stunning. I was captivated by the ingenuity and craftsmanship on display. Each exhibit reveals a part of history often overlooked. I left with a newfound respect for these mechanical workhorses.
If you’re nearby, drop in and learn about an industry that’s always ready to lend a hand. It’s educational and surprisingly entertaining.
6. Toilet Seat Art Museum
Are you ready for something truly unexpected? San Antonio’s Toilet Seat Art Museum is a celebration of creativity. Its founder, the late Barney Smith, turned ordinary toilet seats into whimsical masterpieces.
Each one is a canvas, adorned with objects and themes ranging from historical events to family heirlooms. I marveled at the originality and humor infused into each piece.
Though unconventional, the museum delights visitors with its charm. If you’re in the area, make time for this quirky gem. It’s a testament to the power of imagination and the joy of seeing art in the everyday.
7. Devil’s Rope Museum
Where does the name Devil’s Rope come from? It refers to barbed wire, a transformative invention in the American West. The Devil’s Rope Museum in McLean, Texas, dives into this intriguing history.
Exhibits showcase various barbed wire types and their uses. I was fascinated by the stories of pioneers and ranchers who relied on this technology. It’s an essential piece of history wrapped in a seemingly simple object.
The museum captures the spirit of innovation and survival. Visiting here is not just educational but also an exploration of America’s rugged past. A must-see for history enthusiasts.
8. Museum of the Weird
If you’re drawn to the unusual, Austin’s Museum of the Weird is waiting for you. It houses an eclectic mix of oddities, from shrunken heads to mythical creatures. Each exhibit challenges your sense of reality.
The atmosphere is both thrilling and a bit eerie. I found myself captivated by the stories behind these artifacts. They speak of cultures and mysteries that spark the imagination.
It’s a one-of-a-kind experience that leaves you pondering long after you leave. For those with a taste for the bizarre, this museum is an absolute must-visit. Dive into the wondrous world of the weird.
9. Glore Psychiatric Museum
When it comes to exploring the human mind, the Glore Psychiatric Museum offers a profound journey. Located in St. Joseph, Missouri, it chronicles the evolution of mental health care.
Exhibits feature early treatment equipment and patient art. It’s both enlightening and sobering. Walking through the halls, I felt a deep respect for the progress made in understanding mental health. These stories of resilience and innovation are inspiring.
This museum invites reflection on past practices and the importance of empathy in care. It’s a unique exploration of medical history, worth every moment for the insight it provides.
10. Vent Haven Ventriloquist Museum
Are you intrigued by the world of ventriloquism? In Fort Mitchell, Kentucky, Vent Haven awaits. This museum is the only one dedicated to the art of ventriloquism. Its collection of dummies and memorabilia spans decades.
I found it both fascinating and slightly eerie. Each dummy has a story, a personality captured in wood and fabric. The museum honors the performers who brought them to life.
It’s a celebration of a unique art form, reflecting humor and creativity. If ventriloquism piques your interest, a visit here offers a rare glimpse into its storied past. It’s a journey through entertainment history.
11. Spam Museum
Though it might sound peculiar, the Spam Museum in Austin, Minnesota, is a delight. This fun-filled destination celebrates the iconic canned meat. It’s a playful exploration of Spam’s history and cultural impact.
The exhibits are inventive, and the guides are full of energy. I found myself engrossed in Spam’s journey from wartime staple to culinary icon. And yes, there are samples! The museum is a hit with visitors of all ages.
It’s an unlikely stop that’s both informative and entertaining. If you ever wondered about Spam’s legacy, this museum offers the answers in an engaging way.
12. National Museum of Funeral History
This museum in Houston offers a surprising depth into funeral customs. Exploring the National Museum of Funeral History, I discovered a world rich in tradition. Exhibits cover everything from embalming practices to funeral attire.
It’s a respectful tribute to a universal experience. I was moved by the cultural insights and the care taken in preserving these stories. The vintage hearses are particularly intriguing, each with its own story.
Visiting here is an invitation to reflect on life’s journey. Though it deals with somber subjects, the museum is thoughtfully curated. It’s a compelling exploration of history and humanity.
13. Nutcracker Museum
When winter comes, what better place to visit than the Nutcracker Museum in Leavenworth, Washington? It’s a whimsical world full of charm. The collection of nutcrackers is vast, from traditional designs to unique creations.
Each piece tells a story, reflecting artistry and culture. As I wandered, the festive atmosphere was infectious. It’s as if the holiday spirit is alive in every display. This museum is a perfect stop for families and anyone with a love for tradition.
Whether you’re a collector or just curious, the Nutcracker Museum is sure to enchant. It’s a delightful escape into a world of whimsy.