If you want to go to some of the best museums in the world, shop at some of the best stores, and eat at some of the most famous restaurants, Illinois is your place. But why be mainstream? If you feel like getting weird and straying from the beaten path, visit these 10 weird Illinois places.
1. Two-Story Outhouse
Located in Gays Mills, this outhouse was actually FUNCTIONAL for years. Who came up with this concept? He should be fired.
2. World's Largest Catsup Bottle
You could just get some ketchup out from your fridge. But why do that when you can head to Collinsville and appreciate ketchup in its larger than life form?
3. Popeye statues
Chester, Illinois was the birthplace to the creator of Popeye, one of the most iconic American cartoons. These statues are across town.
4. Hippie Memorial
The only hippie memorial in America is in Arcola, Illinois--Amish country. This interesting artwork is 62 feet long.
5. Piasa Bird
The Piasa bird is a legend in Alton, born from the diary of Father Marquette, who described seeing a bird as large as a calf, with a tiger's beard, and a face like a man. Nope, no sightings since other than the mural on the bluff near Alton.
6. Gold Pyramid House
Are we in Egypt? Nope - Wadsworth, Illinois. It was originally built as a private residence in the '70s (okay, that explains it). Now, you can visit King Tut's tomb and tour inside the pyramid.
7. Bellevue Place
In Batavia, Bellevue Place was once used as a sanitarium for women. Guess who its most famous patient was? None other than Mary Todd Lincoln.
8. Paul Bunyan Statue
In Atlanta, Illinois, you can find the Paul Bunyan statue. But this Paul Bunyan is unique. Originally designed to be holding an ax, a hotdog was substituted. Why? Because it was originally in front of a restaurant that sold hot dogs.
9. International Museum of Surgical Science
Located in Chicago, this museum has exhibits featuring all kinds of surgical/torture implements. Haha, thank goodness for modern medicine. As much as surgery stinks now, you will appreciate the advances made.
10. Olney
Have you ever seen an albino squirrel? Maybe you've seen one, but this town is FULL of them. Make the drive and bring your camera for when you see these critters scampering about.
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