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Crazy Roadside Attractions: Texas Edition

Philippe Kyprianou

— 2 min read
Crazy Roadside Attractions: Texas Edition
According to the Texas state constitution, the Lone Star State could have been divided into five different states. It’s so big, GothRider Magazine gave it its own scenic rides post. Today, we highlight some of the craziest roadside attractions deep in the heart of Texas. Dr. Pepper Museum, Waco That sweet elixir of life was originally sold as a brain tonic in Waco, Texas. Now you can visit the museum, which is in the original bottling facility and old drug store. See exhibits about the history of Dr. Pepper, diet soda, and continuous looping old commercials. Grab some original Dr. Pepper made with real sugar, known as Dublin Dr. Pepper, in the gift shop. Cadillac Ranch, Amarillo What could be crazier than old Cadillacs upright in the ground, painted by hippies? This is one of America’s most infamous roadside attraction. In 1974, a local billionaire wanted a Route 66 attraction that would baffle visitors. So he hired some artsy hippies to paint a bunch of classic cars. While it’s technically not allowed, many people bring their own spray paint to leave a mark. It’s a Mecca for American roadtrippers, so be sure to stop if you’re headed to Palo Duro Canyon for a ride. Sam Houston Statue, Huntsville At 67 feet tall, Sam Houston is the largest statue of an American (and Texan) hero. Houston led the infamous slaughter against Santa Anna for Texan Independence. He then became the Republic of Texas’ first president. After the state joined the U.S., he was a state governor and served as a U.S. Senator. He’s a treasure, and his statue is a must-stop along I-45. While you’re in Huntsville, you can also visit the prison museum and see the notorious Old Sparky electric chair. World’s Largest Cowboy Boots, San Antonio It wouldn’t be a trip to Texas without seeing some giant cowboy boots. San Antonio is just a fun city with plenty to do, but you can’t miss the photo op of the World’s Largest Cowboy Boots. It doesn’t get more Texan than that. They are 40 feet tall and 30 feet long. They stand outside of the North Star Mall. Museum of the Weird, Austin It doesn’t get weirder than a museum dedicated to weirdness in a city proud to be weird. The shop started as a curio shop, but gained success by charging admission to see the oddities. There is a mummy and shrunken heads, and two two-headed calfs. Yes, that’s right. Two dual headed baby cows. The owner leaves in some of the fake oddities just to keep people wondering. There are also legends of cursed artifacts and a haunting.  

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