Bucket-List Road Trips With Quirky Stops Along the Way
Road trips are a classic adventure that allows us to explore the open road and create memories with our loved ones. But what makes a road trip truly unforgettable? The answer lies in the unexpected and unique stops along the way. Sure, you can hit all the major landmarks and popular tourist spots, but what about those charming and quirky gems that you stumble upon by chance? In this article, we’ll take you on a journey to some of the best bucket-list road trips with quirky stops along the way. Pack your bags, buckle up, and let’s hit the road!
The Great Ocean Road, Australia
Located in the state of Victoria, Australia’s Great Ocean Road is a picturesque coastal drive that stretches for 243 kilometers. This iconic road trip is not only known for its stunning ocean views and lush rainforests, but it also offers some of the most unique and quirky stops.
The Big Things
As you make your way along the Great Ocean Road, make sure to keep an eye out for the ‘Big Things’ – giant statues of random objects that are scattered along the route. Some of the most notable Big Things include a giant koala, a giant crayfish, and even a giant corkscrew. These quirky structures are not only great for photo ops, but they also add a touch of fun and humor to your road trip.
The Twelve Apostles
No trip along the Great Ocean Road is complete without a stop at the iconic Twelve Apostles. These limestone stacks rise majestically from the Southern Ocean, creating a magnificent sight that will leave you in awe. While here, be sure to take a helicopter tour for a bird’s-eye view of this natural wonder and its surrounding coastline.
The Great Australian Sausage Roll Competition
If you’re a foodie, then you won’t want to miss the annual Great Australian Sausage Roll Competition, held in the town of Port Fairy. This quirky event sees amateur and professional bakers compete to see who can make the best sausage roll. Who knows – you might just find your new favorite snack along the way!
The Pacific Coast Highway, USA
Stretching for 1,000 kilometers along California’s picturesque coastline, the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is one of America’s most sought-after road trips. And with its breathtaking views and diverse range of quirky stops, it’s not hard to see why.
The Madonna Inn
Located on the PCH in San Luis Obispo, the Madonna Inn is a must-see for any road tripper. This one-of-a-kind hotel boasts themed rooms, a pink dining room, and a bathroom covered in glittering rocks. It’s the perfect place to take a break, stretch your legs, and explore the delightful and eccentric design of this iconic landmark.
The Mystery Spot
A trip along the PCH wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the Mystery Spot in Santa Cruz. This curious roadside attraction claims to have a strange magnetic force that can mess with gravity, making things appear to roll uphill. Whether it’s a real natural phenomenon or just a clever illusion, it’s definitely worth checking out for a unique and quirky experience.
Bixby Creek Bridge
While there are many stunning bridges along the PCH, the Bixby Creek Bridge is undoubtedly the most photogenic of them all. This iconic bridge, often featured in movies and TV shows, offers breathtaking views of the coastline and is a perfect spot for a Instagram-worthy snap.
The Grand Loop, USA
If you’re looking for a road trip with a little bit of everything – stunning landscapes, wildlife sightings, and quirky stops – then the Grand Loop is the route for you. This 1,300-mile road trip takes you through three of the USA’s most iconic national parks – Yellowstone, Grand Teton, and Glacier. But it’s the unexpected quirky stops that truly make this trip unforgettable.
The Enchanted Highway
Tucked away in the rolling hills of North Dakota, you’ll find the Enchanted Highway – a 32-mile stretch of road dotted with several larger-than-life metal sculptures, including a giant grasshopper and a giant tin family. This off-the-beaten-path attraction is a definite must-see for anyone traveling on the Grand Loop.
Wall Drug Store
As you make your way through the small town of Wall, South Dakota, you’ll come across Wall Drug Store – a quirky, kitschy store that’s hard to miss. This roadside stop offers everything from souvenirs and homemade fudge to a petting zoo and a life-size T-Rex. It’s a fun and quirky place to take a break and stretch your legs before continuing on your road trip.
Jackalope Capital of the World
Located in Douglas, Wyoming, the Jackalope Capital of the World is a fun and quirky stop along the Grand Loop. Here, you’ll find a giant statue of a jackalope – a mythical creature that’s half-jackrabbit and half-antelope. This unique attraction is a must-see for anyone looking to add a little bit of whimsy to their road trip.
Bucket-list road trips don’t have to be just about the destination – it’s the journey and the stops along the way that make them truly memorable. So next time you plan a road trip, be sure to add some quirky and unexpected stops to your itinerary. You never know what fun and unique experiences you might discover – making your trip one for the books.
