Top Roadside Attraction in Every Midwest State You Need to Visit
The Midwest is full of surprises, and its quirky roadside attractions are no exception.
From giant sculptures to gravity-defying spots, these one-of-a-kind destinations add a dose of fun and whimsy to any road trip.
Whether you're chasing nostalgia, snapping a memorable photo, or just taking a break from the highway, these Midwest gems are well worth the detour.
Here’s a must-visit roadside attraction for every Midwest state.
Illinois: The World’s Largest Catsup Bottle
📍 Collinsville
Standing at a whopping 170 feet tall, this water tower shaped like a bottle of ketchup (or catsup) is a beloved Illinois landmark. Built in 1949, it’s a tribute to the area’s rich tomato-packing history.
Indiana: The World’s Largest Ball of Paint
📍 Alexandria
What started as a simple baseball covered in paint has transformed into a massive, colorful ball with over 25,000 layers. Visitors can even add their own layer of paint, making it a true community masterpiece.
Iowa: The American Gothic House
📍 Eldon
Art lovers will recognize this iconic house from Grant Wood’s famous painting American Gothic. Snap a photo with a pitchfork in front of this historic site and visit the nearby museum for a deep dive into its story.
Kansas: The World’s Largest Ball of Twine
📍 Cawker City
This legendary ball of twine is a Midwest must-see. Started in 1953, it has grown to over 8 million feet of twine—and counting! Visitors are even encouraged to add their own piece to this ever-expanding attraction.
Michigan: The Mystery Spot
📍 St. Ignace
Prepare to have your mind blown at this peculiar site where the laws of physics seem to bend. Tilted rooms and optical illusions create an experience that’s as puzzling as it is entertaining.
Minnesota: Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox
📍 Bemidji
This iconic duo stands tall as a tribute to Minnesota’s lumberjack folklore. Paul and Babe have been welcoming visitors since 1937 and make for an unforgettable photo op.
Missouri: The World’s Largest Rocking Chair
📍 Fanning
Sitting along historic Route 66, this 42-foot-tall rocking chair is a massive nod to Missouri’s love for roadside charm. While you can’t climb into it, it’s still an impressive sight to behold.
Nebraska: Carhenge
📍 Alliance
Ever wonder what Stonehenge would look like if it were made of cars? Carhenge answers that question with a whimsical display of vintage automobiles arranged in a circle, mimicking the famous monument.
North Dakota: The World’s Largest Buffalo
📍 Jamestown
This 26-foot-tall bison statue is a towering tribute to the state’s rich wildlife history. While you’re there, visit the nearby Frontier Village to dive deeper into North Dakota’s past.
Ohio: The Longaberger Basket Building
📍 Newark
This seven-story office building shaped like a picnic basket is one of the most unique pieces of architecture in the Midwest. It’s a charming tribute to the company’s basket-making legacy.
South Dakota: The Corn Palace
📍 Mitchell
Each year, this one-of-a-kind building is adorned with murals made entirely of corn and grains. The designs change annually, making it a new experience every time you visit.
Wisconsin: The House on the Rock
📍 Spring Green
Part museum, part fantasyland, this sprawling attraction is filled with bizarre collections, including a massive carousel and rooms that feel like something out of a dream. It’s an unforgettable destination for anyone passing through Wisconsin.