If you’re ready for an adventure in the breathtaking Northwest region but aren’t sure where to go, visiting a roadside oddity can make for a quirky, yet memorable trip – and if you bring a camera, you’ll be able to capture some crazy, one-of-a-kind photos. Here are 7 of the most popular attractions in the area worth adding to your next route.
1. Yard Bird in Chehalis, Washington
This newly restored structure next to the Yard Birds Mall has been repeatedly ranked Number One as the Best Roadside Attraction in 2015 by Evening Magazine, and you’ll see why after you visit the jaw-dropping 30-foot tall and 60-foot long bird on the west side of the shopping center.
2. Mary Lou’s Milk Bottle in Spokane, Washington
This infamous eatery in Eastern Washington boasts architecture that will not only make you stop and look twice, but also a mouthwatering menu including burgers and shakes that leaves diners impressed enough to write outstanding reviews online – and come back for more!
3. World’s Largest Frying Pan in Long Beach, Washington
Though it may not scramble your eggs, this giant attraction in southwestern Washington has opportunity for some awesome photos! If you’re standing right beside it, the size comparison is insane. Despite its name and gigantic dimensions at 14-feet tall and 9-feet 6-inches wide, it doesn’t actually hold the record for the largest pan in the entire world, but it’s still a beloved roadside gem to visit in the Northwest. You can find it on the north side of 5th St. SE in Long Beach, just east of Hwy 103/Pacific Ave.
4. West Coast Game Park Safari in Bandon, Oregon
Their Facebook reviews say it all – this place near the coast is an absolute must-visit for animal lovers and adventurers alike. While you’re traveling around the 21-acre safari park, you may be able to spot snow leopards, lions, Bengal tigers, emu, and/or even cougars!
5. House Of Mystery “The Oregon Vortex” in Gold Hill, Oregon
Since 1930, this peculiar place has completely bewildered visitors in the heart of Gold Hill. According to their website, it’s an authentic place of naturally occurring visual and perceptual phenomena that can even be captured on film. The spot is also famous for its “height change”, as the height of two people can change depending on where they’re standing.
Many believe it’s because of a distorted background causing some sort of optical illusion. While this may seem valid, it’s also been noted that some visitors have claimed that when they brought horses or any other animals to the mysterious vortex, they would instantly reverse and try to get away!
6. Miner’s Hat in Kellogg, Idaho
This adorably designed circular building is capped with a large miner’s helmet and an old-fashioned headlamp. Built in 1939 next to Highway 10, it was a popular spot for miners to grab a beer and some tasty food. Since 1991, it’s operated as Miner’s Hat Realty, and is worth a drive by if you get the chance.
7. Spud Drive-In Theater – “World’s Largest Potato” in Driggs, Idaho
TIME Magazine has named this attraction as one of their Top 50 American Roadside Attractions, and there’s no better place for it than at this old-school drive-in theater that still shows some great flicks. It’s not a real potato, of course…just a blob of concrete on the back of an awesome 1946 Chevy truck!
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