Illinois is home to a quirky collection of roadside oddities. Whether you’re zipping down Route 66 or cruising a backroad, these unique stops will turn your trip into a true adventure:
1. World’s Largest Catsup Bottle
Collinsville, IL
A 170-foot-tall water tower shaped like a Brooks Catsup bottle—this nostalgic structure stands as a monument to mid-century advertising and is a must for photo ops.
2. Henry’s Rabbit Ranch
Staunton, IL
A bizarre animal sanctuary-meets-Route 66 museum, featuring live bunnies, VW Rabbits (cars), and assorted Americana. It’s the definition of roadside weirdness.
3. Leaning Tower of Niles
Niles, IL
A half-size replica of the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Originally a water tower, this accidental icon leans proudly just outside Chicago.
4. Casey’s “World’s Largest” Collection
Casey, IL
Casey is famous for gigantic things—wind chime, mailbox, rocking chair, pitchfork, golf tee, and more—all dotted throughout this tiny town’s downtown area.
5. Pink Elephant Antique Mall & Statue
Livingston, IL
Outside this huge antique mall, you’ll spot a massive pink elephant statue holding a martini glass. It’s kitsch at its finest and impossible to miss.
6. The Gemini Giant
Wilmington, IL
This 28-foot-tall space-age “Muffler Man” stands guard outside the Launching Pad Drive-In, wearing a helmet and holding a rocket—an epic Route 66 classic.
7. Two-Story Outhouse
Gays, IL
Why settle for one level? This rare double-decker outhouse is a conversation starter and one of only a few around the country.
8. Paul Bunyan Hotdog Statue
Atlanta, IL
A massive Paul Bunyan “Muffler Man” holding a giant hot dog in both pride and mystery. One of several oversized folk statues on Route 66.
9. Kaskaskia Dragon
Vandalia, IL
Feed this large metal dragon a coin and it’ll blast fire from its mouth, surprising passers-by and children alike.
10. Leaning Tower of Pisa (Replica), Niles, IL
Not just a visual mimic—the replica leans for real and offers a quirky roadside photo spot in suburban Chicagoland.
These stops range from the nostalgic to the truly eccentric, offering thrills, big laughs, and head-scratching moments you’ll only find in Illinois. Don’t forget your camera!
Sources
[1] https://chicago.binnews.com/content/2025-04-04-odd-illinois-spot-crowned-weirdest-roadside-attraction-in-the-state/
[2] https://www.travelingcheesehead.com/roadside-attractions-in-illinois/
[3] https://www.atlasobscura.com/things-to-do/illinois/roadside-attractions
[4] https://wdsd.iheart.com/content/2022-07-15-this-is-the-weirdest-roadside-attraction-in-illinois/
[5] https://www.reddit.com/r/illinois/comments/xe51l2/weirdest_illinois_sitesattractions/
