Posted in Northern California November 09, 2016 by

7 Bizarre Roadside Attractions In Northern California That Will Make You Do A Double Take

It’s no doubt that Northern California is one of the most beautiful places in the country. Did you know that it also is one of the quirkiest? There are tons of bizarre roadside attractions in this great place, and a drive in any direction is a fun and interesting exploration! From giant toys or fast food sculptures to important museums and monuments, roadside attractions are just one of the many things that make Northern California one of the best places in the county.

We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
1. The Giant Green Olive, the Olive Pit, Corning
Trip Advisor/ mini
North of Sacramento but south of Redding is an amazingly delicious pit stop (pun intended!). The Olive Pit is dedicated to tapenade, oils, and more olive flavors than you could imagine. Visiting the giant green olive sculpture is definitely a must! There's also wine tasting and a scrumptious deli at this spot.
2. Large Junk Art Sculptures, Cassel
Trip Advisor/ Steve Q
You know what they say... one man's trash is another man's treasure. These impressive sculptures were made entirely from junk. It's amazing what creative minds can produce with the means and the materials.
3. Largest grinding stone in the world, Lake Shasta
Flickr/Kevin Simpson
The residents of Lake Shasta must have had some pretty big knives that needed sharpening when they created this grinding stone. It's located just to the side of a gas station and is one of the least apparent of these attractions - blink and you might miss it. Take the time to check it out, however, and you will be glad you did.
4. Shoe Tree, Highway 395 in Lassen County.
Flickr/ Paul Hurtado
This isn't the only tree in the country or even in Northern California with shoes tied up by the laces and hanging from the branches, but it is certainly the most impressive. Located on a remote highway in the middle of nowhere and decorated with a really incredible amount of shoes, this shoe tree is a sight to behold.
5. Giant Coke Cup, Sacramento.
Yelp/ Allie M.
Nothing is more American than Coca-Cola! This cool larger-than-life replica is an amazing opportunity for a photo. It's located at the Coca-Cola bottling plant in Sacramento.
6. Clarke’s Collectibles & Lunchbox Museum, Nice
Yelp/ Rene C.
There's a ton of fun knick-knacks scattered around this Northern Californian museum.
Yelp/ Rene C.
Take a trip down memory lane...
Yelp/ Rene C.
Chances are you might see your favorite lunch box from when you were a kid!

7. The largest yo-yo, Chico.

This amazing Northern California spectacle gained international attention when the Guinness World Records declared this is the largest yo-yo in the world.

What incredible sights and scenes have you witnessed traveling around Northern California. Add your favorite roadside attractions to the list by commenting on our Facebook page.