Imagine this: You’re cruising down an American highway when suddenly, a six-story elephant looms into view. No, you’re not dreaming—you’ve just encountered one of America’s most iconic giant roadside attractions.
Americans have always had a quirky love for the oversized and outrageous. From towering cowboy boots to enormous milk bottles, these giant roadside attractions transform ordinary road trips into unforgettable adventures packed with oddity, charm, and local pride.
Are you ready for an adventurous journey through the weird and wonderful? We’re about to discover 20 of the most astonishing giant statues found throughout the United States. These statues are not just big – they’re incredibly odd:
- A towering green giant who’s been stopping traffic since 1979
- A massive Jesus statue nicknamed for its football referee pose
- The world’s largest chest of drawers (because why not?)
- A building shaped like an actual basket
Each of these quirky giants has its own story to tell about local pride, artistic vision, or pure American eccentricity. Some pay tribute to local heroes, others celebrate farming accomplishments, and still others exist simply because someone figured, “Why not? Bigger is better.”
So, get ready to hit the road and explore these fascinating sites—each one a tribute to America’s love for all things gigantic!
1. Lucy the Elephant
Standing proud on the Jersey Shore since 1881, Lucy the Elephant is America’s oldest surviving roadside attraction. This six-story elephant-shaped building in Margate City, New Jersey, puts other unusual buildings to shame with its boldness – imagine a 65-foot-tall elephant with a seat on its back and beautifully decorated rooms inside.
Built by real estate developer James Lafferty to attract property buyers, Lucy has served many purposes over the years:
- Summer vacation home
- Tavern
- Private residence
- Tourist information center
Her most remarkable feature, however, is the seat on her back, which serves as an observation deck with stunning views of the Atlantic and beach below. Meanwhile, inside Lucy’s belly, visitors can explore historical exhibits that trace her fascinating journey from Victorian-era marketing gimmick to National Historic Landmark.
This beloved wooden elephant has, over the years, survived fires, hurricanes, and multiple restorations. As a result, thousands now visit to climb her spiral staircase for Instagram-worthy shots or to simply admire this quirky American architectural gem.
2. The World’s Largest Chest of Drawers
High Point, North Carolina features a 38-foot chest of drawers, complete with oversized socks dangling from its drawers. This massive dresser isn’t just an interesting spot for photos; it also represents the city’s rich history in furniture manufacturing.
A Creative Billboard
Constructed in 1926, this enormous dresser was initially built as an innovative advertisement for the High Point Hosiery Mills. In 1996, the structure underwent a significant transformation, increasing in height from 20 feet to its current impressive size.
A Symbol of High Point’s Legacy
This colossal piece, in turn, perfectly reflects High Point’s claim to fame as the “Home Furnishings Capital of the World.” And yes, its drawers are said to hold 818,000 pairs of socks—though, admittedly, reaching the top ones would take one seriously tall ladder.
A Must-See Attraction
Visitors passing through High Point shouldn’t miss 508 North Hamilton Street, where this whimsical roadside attraction stands tall. The design of the bureau features intricate wood grain details, oversized drawer pulls, and two enormous socks playfully peeking out from partially opened drawers—a delightful tribute to the city’s historical ties with both the furniture and hosiery industries.
3. Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox
Standing proudly in Bemidji, Minnesota, Paul Bunyan and his loyal companion Babe the Blue Ox stand tall, welcoming visitors with their larger-than-life presence. These cherished statues have been overlooking Lake Bemidji since 1937, bringing American folklore to life in a magnificent way.
A Grand Display of Size and Strength
Paul stands 18 feet tall, clad in plaid and holding an axe big enough to fell a forest. Beside him, Babe measures in at a staggering 10 feet tall – not too shabby for a mythical ox. The creation of these statues coincided with Bemidji’s centennial celebration, but they have since become much more than just decorations for an anniversary.
Local Legends and National Recognition
According to local legends, Paul has conversations with children passing by, although skeptics might attribute this to the hidden speaker system installed in 1988. These statues, now on the National Register, draw road trippers eager to snap photos with lumberjack legends.
Did you know? Based on his pancake appetite, Paul Bunyan would’ve been around 63 feet tall. While these statues may seem “small” in comparison, they still hold a significant place in mythology.
4. The Big Texan Cowboy
Standing tall against the Amarillo sky, The Big Texan Cowboy cuts an unmistakable figure at 40 feet high. This larger-than-life statue has been welcoming hungry travelers to The Big Texan Steak Ranch since 1960.
The statue embodies pure Texas swagger – from his genuine cowboy boots to his wide-brimmed Stetson hat. His wave and smile reflect Texas hospitality—fitting for a restaurant famed for its 72-ounce steak challenge.
Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, this colossal cowpoke sports:
- A bright yellow shirt that catches the desert sun
- Classic blue jeans with authentic-looking creases
- A red bandana that’s become his signature accessory
- A belt buckle bigger than most dinner plates
Photographers love catching this gentle giant during golden hour, when the setting sun paints him in dramatic shadows. His massive silhouette against the Texas sky creates the perfect backdrop for that quintessential Route 66 road trip photo.
5. Jolly Green Giant
At 55.5 feet tall, the Jolly Green Giant in Blue Earth becomes a massive roadside version of the iconic mascot. This emerald-hued giant has watched over Interstate 90 since 1979, sporting his signature leaf outfit and winning smile.
A Tribute to Green Giant
The statue, for its part, radiates pure Texas swagger—from his authentic cowboy boots to that wide-brimmed Stetson. Moreover, his wave and smile embody true Texas hospitality, making him a fitting mascot for a restaurant famous for its 72-ounce steak challenge.
Visit and Explore
Visitors can climb the stairs to the giant’s feet for prime photo opportunities. The statue’s base features a museum packed with vintage Green Giant memorabilia, from classic TV commercials to original packaging designs.
Fun Facts and Festivals
Fun fact: The statue’s head alone weighs 8,000 pounds – that’s a lot of frozen peas worth of metal! The annual Green Giant Days festival features green foods and a Jolly Green Giant costume contest.
6. Big Butter Jesus (Touchdown Jesus)
Standing tall at 62 feet above a reflecting pool, the King of Kings statue at Solid Rock Church in Monroe, Ohio, has earned two quirky nicknames: “Big Butter Jesus” and “Touchdown Jesus.” This towering Jesus statue, arms outstretched, resembles a referee calling a touchdown.
The Original Statue
The original statue was constructed in 2004 for $250,000. It quickly gained popularity online due to its one-of-a-kind design. Built from wood, styrofoam, and fiberglass, its buttery color earned it the nickname “butter.”
The Lightning Incident
However, nature had different plans for this roadside attraction. In 2010, lightning struck the statue, igniting its flammable components.
The Replacement
Refusing to back down, the church replaced it with a new sculpture called “Lux Mundi,” which cost $750,000. This 52-foot replacement keeps its arms down—perhaps wiser after challenging the heavens once before.
A Landmark for Travelers
Motorists traveling along Interstate 75 cannot overlook this shining symbol of religious devotion and architectural ambition – it has become an unofficial landmark marking the halfway point between Cincinnati and Dayton.
7. Salem Sue the Cow
Standing tall on School Hill in New Salem, North Dakota, is the world’s largest Holstein cow statue – a magnificent 38-foot-tall, 50-foot-long figure known as Salem Sue. This colossal symbol of dairy farming weighs an impressive 12,000 pounds, making her a heavyweight champion among roadside attractions.
A Tribute to the Dairy Industry
Constructed in 1974 at a cost of $40,000 (funded by local dairy farmers), Salem Sue stands as a monumental tribute to the region’s flourishing dairy industry. Perched on a hill, she watches I-94 like a prairie queen, luring road-trippers with her giant stare.
Telling the Story of Agriculture
The giant Holstein statue does more than just grab attention – it also narrates the tale of North Dakota’s agricultural heritage. With a shiny black-and-white coat, this prairie cow proudly flaunts the flair of hardworking dairy folks. Hike up the hill, snap a selfie, and meet the most photogenic bovine on the plains. Additionally, informative plaques located at its base provide insights into the area’s legacy of dairy farming.
Fun fact: The head of Salem Sue is so large that it can accommodate a small car inside!
8. Hiawatha Statue
Standing 52 feet tall against Michigan’s northern sky, the Hiawatha Statue in Ironwood commands attention as one of the most striking Native American monuments in the United States. Made of fiberglass and steel, this giant’s stood tall since 1964—part statue, part guardian of indigenous pride.
The statue depicts the legendary Onondaga leader Hiawatha, known for his role in establishing the Iroquois Confederacy. His outstretched arms welcome visitors in a gesture of peace – a nod to his historical role as a peacemaker among the Five Nations.
Local artists and historians offer guided interpretations at the site, sharing stories of Hiawatha’s influence on Native American diplomacy and governance. The statue’s strategic placement atop a hill allows visitors to appreciate its impressive scale while learning about indigenous traditions that shaped the Great Lakes region.
Fun fact: The statue weighs approximately 16,000 pounds and required specialized engineering to withstand the harsh Upper Peninsula winters.
9. Longaberger Basket Building
Imagine a seven-story office building shaped like a picnic basket, with handles reaching up to the sky. That’s exactly what you’ll find in Newark, Ohio – the Longaberger Basket Building, a quirky example of corporate creativity taken to the extreme.
The Vision Behind the Design
Dave Longaberger, the founder of the Longaberger Company, had a unique vision for his headquarters. He wanted it to resemble the company’s best-selling Medium Market Basket, but on a much larger scale – 160 times larger, to be exact. And so, the idea for the world’s largest basket-shaped building was born.
A Marvel of Architecture
The result of this ambitious project is nothing short of impressive. Spanning an area of 180,000 square feet, this architectural wonder appears as if a giant woven basket has been dropped from above. Every detail has been meticulously crafted to replicate the original design:
- Two massive steel handles weighing 150 tons each, expertly heated and curved
- Thirteen thousand aluminum strips forming the intricate “weave” pattern
- Authentic maple wood finishes for added elegance
- Oversized gold leaf Longaberger tags as distinctive accents
A Landmark Attraction
Completed in 1997 at a cost of $30 million, the Longaberger Basket Building quickly became an attraction for curious visitors and architecture enthusiasts worldwide. Although the Longaberger Company no longer operates from this location, the building itself continues to captivate passersby with its surreal charm.
This one-of-a-kind structure stands as a testament to the belief that sometimes it’s the most outrageous business ideas that leave lasting impressions. Whether you’re an architecture aficionado or simply seeking out peculiar roadside attractions, make sure to include this beloved oddity on your travel itinerary – it promises an unforgettable experience!
10. The World’s Largest Artichoke
Standing tall at 20 feet in Castroville, California, this giant green vegetable statue adds a quirky touch to the town’s agricultural reputation. The massive artichoke sculpture honors Castroville’s title as the “Artichoke Capital of the World,” a distinction they’ve held since the 1920s.
Unveiled in 1963, this unusual produce symbol stands outside the Giant Artichoke Restaurant, where visitors can take Instagram-worthy photos with the oversized vegetable and indulge in a menu featuring artichoke dishes. Fun fact: A young Marilyn Monroe was crowned the first “Artichoke Queen” of Castroville in 1947.
The statue has become the defining landmark of this small farming community, attracting curious road-trippers and food enthusiasts. Its unique spiky leaves and large size make it impossible to overlook – and believe us, you won’t want to miss it. The surrounding area is filled with artichoke fields, providing a fitting backdrop for this grand tribute to California’s beloved thistle.
11. Pecos Bill with Widowmaker
Get ready for an adventure in Bakersfield, California, where the legendary Pecos Bill rides forever on his fierce horse Widowmaker. This larger-than-life statue perfectly captures the spirit of America’s most outrageous cowboy folk hero – you know, the guy who used a rattlesnake as a lasso and actually tamed a tornado.
A Tribute to Western Mythology
Located at Pioneer Village, this bronze sculpture brings to life the incredible stories that shaped Western mythology. Pecos Bill sits confidently on Widowmaker, the untameable horse he supposedly caught with a rattlesnake lasso. The statue’s dynamic pose suggests movement, with Widowmaker’s mane caught in an invisible wind and Bill’s signature ten-gallon hat seemingly defying gravity.
Local Legends and Frontier Storytelling
Local children whisper that on moonlit nights, you might see Bill and Widowmaker racing across the sky, chasing down rogue cyclones. While that’s just another tall tale, this striking monument serves as a perfect tribute to the wild imagination of frontier storytelling and the enduring spirit of the American West.
12. Carhenge
Carhenge is a unique attraction located in Nebraska, created by artist Jim Reinders. It features 39 vintage American cars, painted gray and arranged in a circular formation, resembling the famous Stonehenge monument in England.
A Tribute to Family
Constructed in 1987 as a tribute to Reinders’ father, Carhenge was built using the same measurements as Stonehenge. The cars are positioned upright, with their trunks buried underground, while some vehicles precariously rest on top of others, creating an impressive sight against the expansive Nebraska sky.
Exploring the Installation
The installation showcases classic cars from the 1950s and 1960s, all painted in a uniform gray color to mimic the appearance of stone. Visitors have the opportunity to explore the site up close, discovering hidden details such as a 1962 Cadillac serving as a significant landmark within the sculpture.
A Popular Stop for Travelers
Each year, thousands of curious travelers stop by Carhenge, demonstrating that unconventional attractions can capture people’s imaginations. This one-of-a-kind monument stands as a testament to human creativity and resourcefulness, blending ancient influences with American craftsmanship – all while repurposing discarded vehicles.
13. Oscar the Grouch Trash Can Statue
Located in Philadelphia’s Sesame Place theme park, you’ll find a wonderfully grumpy tribute to everyone’s favorite trash-loving grouch. Standing tall at 15 feet, the Oscar the Grouch statue is a grand representation of the art of being charmingly unpleasant.
A Closer Look at the Statue
This oversized trash can perfectly captures Oscar in his element, with his signature green fur peeking out from his metallic abode. The designers of the statue have meticulously crafted every detail, from his prominent fuzzy eyebrows to his perpetually annoyed expression. It’s no surprise that both kids and adults can’t resist striking a pose with this larger-than-life piece of their childhood.
The Perfect Spot for Photos
The statue has become an ideal backdrop for photos, with visitors often imitating Oscar’s famous scowl. Its weathered metallic finish adds an authentic touch – one might almost expect to hear him grumbling about all the cheerful people stopping by.
Connecting Generations Through Nostalgia
What truly sets this statue apart is its power to connect different generations. Parents who grew up watching Sesame Street now bring their own children to meet the giant version of their beloved grouch, creating new memories while also reliving their own nostalgic ties to this iconic character.
14. The Muffler Men Trio
The Muffler Men Trio represents America’s golden age of roadside advertising. These 20-foot-tall fiberglass giants once lined highways across the country, attracting drivers to auto shops with their larger-than-life presence and quirky appeal.
Each member of this legendary trio has its own unique personality:
- The Classic Muffler Man: Dressed in blue jeans and a checkered shirt, he holds a huge muffler in his hands – a sight that’s become synonymous with vintage Americana
- Paul Bunyan: With a full beard and traditional lumberjack clothing, this version pays tribute to American folklore
- The Cowboy: Wearing western attire, complete with a cowboy hat and boots, he embodies the spirit of the American frontier
These retro giants have found new homes all over the country, from Illinois to California. Some still promote auto parts, while others have been repurposed as attention-grabbing landmarks for restaurants, shops, and tourist attractions.
The craftsmanship behind these fiberglass colossi tells a fascinating story of American ingenuity. Created by International Fiberglass in the 1960s, these statues were built using the same mold but customized with different accessories and outfits – a clever way to mass-produce unique roadside attractions.
15. The Big Duck
Quack your way to Flanders, New York, where a 20-foot-tall, 30-foot-long duck rules the roost. Built in 1931 by duck farmer Martin Maurer, this feathered architectural feat wasn’t just a flight of fancy – it was a brilliant marketing scheme for his Long Island duck farm.
The Big Duck’s glowing red eyes (made from Model T tail lights) have watched nearly a century of visitors waddle by. This concrete and wood-frame waterfowl earned its spot on the National Register of Historic Places in 1987, a testament to its role in duck-shaped architecture – yes, that’s a real architectural term coined because of this very building!
Inside its white ferrocement feathers, The Big Duck once served as a shop selling eggs and duck products. Today, it’s a gift shop and information center, drawing road-trippers eager to snap photos with this quirky piece of Americana.
Fun Fact: The Big Duck moves! It migrated from its original location in Riverhead to Suffolk County and back again, proving even giant concrete ducks need a change of scenery sometimes.
16. Randy’s Donuts Giant Donut
Standing tall at 32 feet above the streets of Inglewood, California, a massive donut grabs attention like a sugary beacon in the night. This isn’t just any donut – it’s the donut, Randy’s iconic rooftop sculpture that’s been stopping traffic since 1954.
The giant pastry has earned its place in pop culture history, stealing scenes in blockbusters like Iron Man 2 and Mars Attacks! While some might call it kitschy, this perfectly proportioned piece of novelty architecture represents the golden age of programmatic design, when buildings weren’t afraid to literally advertise their contents.
Made from steel bars and gunite-covered chicken wire, the donut weighs in at a whopping 1,000 pounds. That’s enough to satisfy even Homer Simpson’s appetite. The shop beneath this colossal confection serves up real donuts 24/7, creating a delicious harmony between form and function.
Randy’s giant donut stands as a testament to LA’s love affair with theatrical architecture. It’s not just a landmark – it’s a reminder that sometimes the sweetest stops on a road trip are the ones that embrace pure, unapologetic whimsy.
17. Giant Pink Elephant with Martini Glass
Imagine a 20-foot-tall pink elephant holding up a martini glass, forever toasting to everyone passing by. No, this isn’t a dream or an illusion – it’s DeForest, Wisconsin’s beloved roadside attraction.
The Story Behind the Giant Pink Elephant
The Giant Pink Elephant stands proudly outside what used to be a local tavern. Its vibrant pink color and permanently raised martini glass playfully reference the saying “seeing pink elephants,” which is an old-fashioned way of describing alcohol-induced hallucinations. This quirky statue was created in the 1960s during the heyday of roadside attractions, and although it has outlasted its original purpose, it has now become a beloved local landmark.
Why You Should Visit
Here are a few reasons why you should consider visiting the Giant Pink Elephant:
- Unique Photo Opportunity: The enormous size and vibrant color of the statue make it an ideal backdrop for memorable photos.
- Nostalgic Americana Experience: The statue represents a bygone era of quirky roadside attractions, allowing you to immerse yourself in nostalgic Americana.
- Convenient Stop on Your Journey: If you’re traveling along Highway 51, this attraction offers a convenient pit stop to stretch your legs and capture some Instagram-worthy shots.
Fun Fact
Did you know that the Giant Pink Elephant was made of fiberglass? Its mischievous grin and playful demeanor are sure to bring smiles to all who encounter it.
Insider Tip
For an extra magical experience, plan your visit during sunset when the pink paint takes on a warm glow.
18. Big Idaho Potato Hotel Statue
Ever dreamed of sleeping inside a giant potato? The Big Idaho Potato Hotel makes that dream come true. This 6-ton, 28-foot-long potato-shaped structure started off as a traveling ambassador for the Idaho Potato Commission, making its way across America on the back of a truck.
Now permanently located in a field just outside Boise, this giant potato has been transformed into a cozy Airbnb getaway. Inside, you’ll find stylish white walls, custom furniture, and millennial-pink accents – definitely not the mushy potato insides you might expect.
The statue-turned-hotel pays tribute to Idaho’s $4 billion potato industry while adding a touch of whimsy to the landscape. Guests can relax in their private potato retreat, which includes power outlets, heating, and air conditioning. A nearby converted grain silo houses a separate bathroom spa retreat.
This unique structure shows how one state’s pride in agriculture can become another traveler’s must-see experience. The Big Idaho Potato Hotel is both an example of creative repurposing and a symbol of America’s fascination with oversized roadside attractions.
19. The Giant Peach (aka Peachoid)
Rising like a colossal fruit from the South Carolina landscape, the Peachoid water tower in Gaffney transforms mundane infrastructure into a deliciously quirky roadside spectacle. This 135-foot-tall peach-shaped marvel holds a million gallons of water while serving up generous portions of small-town charm.
The tower’s distinctive design features a very specific anatomical detail – a leaf-shaped shadow that some locals swear makes the peach look more like… well, let’s just say it sparked quite a few colorful nicknames. This cheeky architectural feature even earned the Peachoid a memorable cameo in Netflix’s “House of Cards.”
Built in 1981, this juicy giant celebrates Cherokee County’s peach-growing prowess. Artists used 50 gallons of paint to create the perfect peachy glow, with specialized tones mixed to capture that just-picked blush. Spotting this fruity behemoth from Interstate 85 feels like stumbling upon a Georgia O’Keeffe painting come to life – if O’Keeffe had worked in municipal water storage.
Fun Fact: The Peachoid’s paint job requires touch-ups every 5-7 years to maintain its fresh-picked appearance, making it perhaps the world’s most high-maintenance fruit.
20. World’s Largest Ketchup Bottle
Standing at 170 feet tall, the World’s Largest Ketchup Bottle is an unforgettable landmark in Collinsville, Illinois. This unique attraction is actually a water tower designed to look like a giant bottle of Brooks ketchup, paying homage to the brand’s historical connection to the area.
A Towering Tribute to Ketchup
Built in 1949, this giant steel-and-concrete bottle mimics the original Brooks ketchup design perfectly. The attention to detail is remarkable, right down to the label specifics. Its impressive size ensures that it can be seen from several miles away, making it a perfect sight for passing motorists.
Preserving History
In 2002, it joined the National Register of Historic Places, earning recognition beyond quirky roadside fame. In 1995, locals saved it from demolition, raising funds to restore this beloved ketchup icon.
Picture-Perfect Moments
Photographers flock to capture the ideal shot of this oversized condiment container, particularly during sunset when its vibrant red-and-white paint scheme illuminates against the darkening sky. There is also a convenient parking area available for visitors who wish to take their own “guess what I discovered!” pictures.
Location: 800 South Morrison Avenue, Collinsville, Illinois
The Call of the Colossal
These 20 larger-than-life landmarks stand as testament to America’s delightfully oddball spirit. From giant elephants to towering ketchup bottles, each statue shares a quirky tale of pride, creativity, and roadside charm.
Pack your camera, plot your route, and get ready to chase down these magnificent monuments of Americana. You’ll find yourself pulling over for photos with Paul Bunyan, gazing up at the Jolly Green Giant, and pondering the artistic merits of a building shaped like a massive basket.
These aren’t just roadside attractions – they’re portals into the heart of small-town America, where bigger really is better and the strange becomes sublime. Each stop promises:
- Unforgettable photo opportunities
- Rich local histories
- Quirky cultural experiences
- Encounters with passionate locals who keep these landmarks alive
The great American road trip isn’t complete without a few detours into the delightfully bizarre. These colossal creations await your visit, ready to spark wonder and maybe even a laugh or two. Hit the road, embrace the weird, and discover why sometimes the best memories come from following that random highway sign pointing to a giant artichoke or an enormous chest of drawers.
Your next road trip adventure through America’s quirkiest corners starts here. Which giant statue will you visit first?
