8 Bizarre Roadside Attractions In Oregon That Are Fascinatingly Weird
Driving through Oregon, you may come across some pretty bizarre roadside attractions. From life-sized dinosaur sculptures to fake ghost towns, you almost never know what oddity will appear on the horizon next. If you’re craving a dose of the unusual, these eight odd roadside attractions in Oregon are sure to catch your eye:
8. Paul Bunyan statue, Portland
This famous, 31-foot Paul Bunyan statue is located on North Interstate and North Denver avenues in Portland and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It was built to celebrate the state's centennial, and it has continued to draw visitors since its unveiling in 1959.
7. Prehistoric Gardens, Highway 101
Longing to go back to a simpler time? Located on the beautiful Highway 101, this charming roadside attraction features 23 incredible, life-sized dinosaur sculptures. The whole family will enjoy this unusual local landscape.
6. Short Bridge Ghost Town, Highway 20
Driving along Highway 20, you'll come across the tiny ghost town of Short Bridge. Upon closer inspection, however, you can see that the little town is fake; it's only a very ornate facade. Nonetheless, this charming and old-timey attraction continues to draw interest.
5. Enchanted Forest, off Interstate 5
This unique, fairytale-themed amusement park is absolutely enchanting. It's located just off the I-5 near Salem and is a must for visitors and locals alike. This fairytale destination has entertained visitors since 1971.
4. Caveman sculpture, Grants Pass
Driving through Grants Pass, you'll be greeted by this awesome, 17-foot-tall caveman sculpture. It was first unveiled in 1971, and it has since become a source of local pride.
3. Petersen Rock Garden
This amazing rock garden and museum features incredible handmade miniatures of famous monuments, castles, bridges, and more - and it's listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Located just outside of Redmond just off US 97. Though only 4 acres in size, you'll fall in love with this impressive landscape.
2. Oregon Vortex and House of Mystery, Gold Hill
The Oregon Vortex and House of Mystery is a bafflling place where you'll witness strange phenomena like balls rolling uphill, brooms balancing on their handles, and more. Located in Gold Hill just off the I-5, this house of optical illusions is incredible for visitors young and old.
1. Peace Candle of the World, Highway 30.
This incredible 50-foot candle is located on Highway 30 in Scappoose. Formerly a silo, this huge structure was filled with candle wax and renovated into an enormous candle promoting world peace. Believe it or not, this statue was designed using actual wax, and it originally had a wick. Nowadays, of course, it just features a flame-shaped light.
Oregon is full of quirky, unusual attractions. Have you visited any of these offbeat places? Share your thoughts on these roadside attractions in Oregon with us in the comments!
Longing for more local adventure? Check out these 7 incredibly strange places in Oregon.
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