12 Bizarre Roadside Attractions In Florida That Are Fascinatingly Weird
The Sunshine State has a long history as a tourist destination, and thanks to that distinction, there are also many weird roadside attractions in Florida. This is probably because we’ve had so much time to create some of the weirdest attention-seeking landmarks and offbeat attractions in Florida. From awesome photo opportunities to day-trip-worthy adventures, you’ll want to add these weird Florida attractions to your must-visit list. Check out these weird attractions in Florida that are sure to make any road trip special.
1. Swampy, World's Largest Alligator, Christmas
Where else would you expect to find the world's largest alligator? This 200-foot alligator welcomes visitors to Jungle Adventures, a park full of gators and other exotic animals, in the tiny town of Christmas.
2. Skunk Ape Research Headquarters, Ochopee
This attraction started as the office of Jack Shealy's Trail Lakes campground, until his brother, Dave, took up the search for an elusive Florida version of Bigfoot called the Skunk Ape. Fun exhibits and a petting zoo make this a must-see even for the non-believers.
Address: 40904 Tamiami Trail E, Ochopee, FL 34141
Address: 40904 Tamiami Trail E, Ochopee, FL 34141
3. Spook Hill, Lake Wales
Legend has it that a giant gator used to torment the Native Americans on this land, until a huge battle took it down. Since then, strange things have happened at Spook Hill, and if you park your car at the bottom of the hill, it will supposedly roll up the hill.
4. Coral Castle, Homestead
Coral Castle is another castle in Florida built by a single man. In this case, a lovelorn Latvian, Edward Leedskalnin, sourced every stone himself, and built his own complex complete with stone chairs, tables, throne, a tub, and his own home, where he lived and gave tours until he died. This is a definite must-see if you're ever near the southern tip of Florida.
Address: 28655 S Dixie Hwy, Homestead, FL 33033
Address: 28655 S Dixie Hwy, Homestead, FL 33033
5. World's Smallest Post Office, Ochopee
This farm shed was turned into an emergency post office when the official one burned down in 1953, and the town just kept it that way. It's not even big enough for a bathroom, but you can buy novelty postcards from the post office and have them sent for you at the same time.
6. Monkey Island, Homosassa
Monkey Island came into being when a man developing what would later become Homosassa Wildlife State Park needed a place to keep his misbehaving monkeys where guests could watch them from a safe distance. The tiny place is still attracting curious visitors today.
7. World's Smallest Police Station, Carrabelle
Back in the day, this small town was so small it didn't even have a police station. Officers would park near the center of town and receive calls through a phone booth. Thus, it became the world's smallest police station. These days, phone booths are pretty obsolete, but the town has held on to this monument and the original phone booth, which can be seen in City Hall.
Address: 102 Ave A N, Carrabelle, FL 32322
Address: 102 Ave A N, Carrabelle, FL 32322
8. Weeki Wachee Springs State Park
Mermaid performers have been captivating audiences in Weeki Wachee Springs since 1947. Visitors can also enjoy its water park and boat rides.
Address: 6131 Commercial Way, Spring Hill, FL 34606
Address: 6131 Commercial Way, Spring Hill, FL 34606
9. Monument of States, Kissimmee
This 50-foot tower in downtown Kissimmee proudly displays a rock from every state in the continental U.S. It was created during WWII as a quirky yet patriotic symbol of the unity of the states.
Address: 6300 E Monument Ave, Kissimmee, FL 34741
Address: 6300 E Monument Ave, Kissimmee, FL 34741
10. Betsy the Lobster, Islamorada
This roadside sculpture welcomes visitors to the Rain Barrel Artisan Village in Islamorada. The 35-foot-long crustacean is possibly the largest lobster in the world.
Address: 86700 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036
Address: 86700 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036
11. Solomon's Castle, Ona
Artist Howard Solomon wasn't great in school, but he knew he was meant to work with his hands. He built this entire aluminum covered castle by himself as a home for his family and his art, and it's become a classic Florida roadside attraction. Like you would expect a castle to be, they're old school, so bring cash not cards.
Address: 4533 Solomon Rd, Ona, FL 33865
Address: 4533 Solomon Rd, Ona, FL 33865
12. Goofy Golf, Panama City
This golf course is perfect for anyone who loves kitschy vintage fun. Goofy Golf's creative owner built everything from giant monkeys to monsters and aliens, and they have remained mostly unchanged since their creation in 1959. It's lots of fun for the whole family.
Address: 12206 Front Beach Rd, Panama City Beach, FL 32407
Address: 12206 Front Beach Rd, Panama City Beach, FL 32407
Have you seen all of these weird roadside attractions in Florida? While you’re cruising around looking for all the offbeat attractions in Florida, you’re likely to get hungry, so be sure to check out these 14 Awesomely Weird Florida Restaurants.
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