These 8 Weird Places In Colorado Are As Strange As It Gets
By Annie
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Published April 29, 2023
Colorado is a weird state. Before you begin angrily commenting, know that I am a native (yes, born AND raised here in the Centennial State) and that I mean weird in the best way possible, a la quirky, off-beat, and sometimes whimsical. Still don’t believe it? Then I invite you to check out these 8 weird places in Colorado that are equal parts strange and epic:
1. The Denver Museum of Miniatures, Dolls and Toys (Lakewood)
Denver Museum of Miniatures, Dolls & Toys, 830 Kipling St, Lakewood, CO 80215, USA
The Denver Museum of Miniatures, Dolls and Toys is exactly how it sounds: It's an extensive collection of dolls and toys throughout history! Founded in 1981, the Museum is home to 20,000 items spread throughout 4 fascinating exhibits. Whether you enjoy vintage Star Wars toys, intricate porcelain dolls, or Disney memorabilia, you will find something to love at this unique Colorado attraction.
2. Outlaw and Lawmen Jail Museum (Cripple Creek)
Outlaws & Law Men Jail Museum, 136 W Bennett Ave, Cripple Creek, CO 80813, USA
Cripple Creek has a colorful history starring a cast of unruly Old West characters. To get a glimpse of some of these unsavory folks - and to learn more about the area's rich mining history - visit the
Outlaw and Lawmen Jail Museum
Housed inside the old Teller County Jail, the Museum features displays of old mining equipment plus pictures and artifacts.
3. Cano's Castle (Antonito)
Cano's Castle, State St &, 285 E 10th Ave, Antonito, CO 81120, USA
Let's face it: It doesn't get any stranger than a giant castle constructed of beer cans and other metal scraps, which sums up the one and only
Cano's Castle. Made by Dominic "Cano" Espinoza, Cano's Castle features 4 structures (including a giant metal spider and a UFO-shaped windmill), the most intricate of which is the namesake castle Espinoza dedicated to Jesus. While you cannot enter the castle or onto the property, you can stand on the street and marvel at this one-of-a-kind kingdom. Speaking of castles...
4. Bishop Castle (Rye)
Bishop Castle, 12705 CO-165, Rye, CO 81069, USA
...Colorado is home to another weird and wonderful palace:
Bishop Castle! Built entirely by one man, Bishop Castle is a remarkable structure via its many towers, fire-breathing dragon, and other structural marvels. Unlike Cano's Castle, you can explore Bishop's Castle... for FREE!
5. UFO Watchtower (Center)
UFO Watchtower, CO-17, Center, CO 81125, USA
Do you believe in aliens? If so, the UFO Watchtower is your place (and the people who visit are your people). Located in the San Luis Valley, the
UFO Watchtower offers zero light pollution and a raised platform to gaze at the night sky. (Need we mention there are tons of quirky and downright weird structures around the property?)
6. Colorado Gators Reptile Park (Mosca)
Colorado Gators Reptile Park, 9162 Ln 9 N, Mosca, CO 81146, USA
7. Creede Fork (Creede)
Have you ever thought it would be cool to see a 600-pound, 40-foot-long aluminum fork? (Don't we all?) Your wish is granted via the largest fork in the U.S.!
8. Lee Maxwell Washing Machine Museum (Eaton)
Lee Maxwell Washing Machine Museum, 35901 WCR 31, Eaton, CO 80615, USA
Featuring 1,000 vintage washing machines, the
Lee Maxwell Washing Machine Museum - though quirky - is still surprisingly fascinating, thanks to its knowledgeable owner and in-depth walk through clothes-cleaning history.
For another one of our favorite “weird” places in Colorado, check out The World’s Single-Largest Private Insect Collection Is Located Right Here In Colorado .
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