1. The Big Blue Bug (Providence)
Also known as “Nibbles Woodaway”, this massive, cartoonish blue termite perched on top of a pest control company building in Providence is hard to miss. At 9 feet tall and 58 feet long, it’s one of the largest roadside creatures you’ll encounter. The Big Blue Bug is a quirky Rhode Island icon and a must-see for anyone passing through the state.
2. The Mystery Hole (Charlestown)
Tucked away in Charlestown, The Mystery Hole is a gravity-defying attraction that’s sure to leave you scratching your head. Here, you can experience strange optical illusions where objects seem to roll uphill, and gravity appears to act unpredictably. It’s an oddball tourist stop that will make you question the laws of physics, or at least give you a laugh.
3. The Industrial National Bank Building’s ‘Giant Typewriter’ (Providence)
In the heart of Providence, the Industrial National Bank Building features a giant typewriter with oversized keys. Standing at the corner of the building, this unusual sight was once part of a corporate logo but has since become a unique landmark in the city. It’s the perfect stop for anyone who appreciates quirky, retro architecture.
4. The World’s Largest Bugle (Cranston)
In the town of Cranston, you’ll find an eye-catching monument: the world’s largest bugle. This oversized musical instrument stands as a tribute to the state’s military and is located near the entrance to the National Guard Armory. Whether you’re into military history or just enjoy a good oversized instrument, this peculiar roadside attraction is worth a stop.
5. The Big Fish (Westerly)
Located in Westerly, this enormous fish sculpture stands proudly in front of a local restaurant. Made from metal and looking like a gigantic fish jumping out of the water, it’s a fun and quirky sight that perfectly represents Rhode Island’s seaside charm. It’s great for photos and offers a playful vibe for travelers heading through the area.
6. The Wizard of Oz Land (Hope Valley)
If you’re a fan of the classic film, The Wizard of Oz Land in Hope Valley is a fun, albeit obscure, stop. Tucked away in a quiet part of the state, this offbeat attraction includes a collection of Wizard of Oz-inspired statues and decor, along with some quirky memorabilia. It’s a whimsical place that seems straight out of Dorothy’s imagination.
7. The Animal Hoods (Providence)
In Providence, you’ll find The Animal Hoods—a series of colorful animal sculptures adorned with hoods. These bizarre, life-sized figures stand on a street corner, offering an abstract and playful piece of public art. Whether you find them charming or creepy, they’re certainly an attention-grabbing sight.
8. The Giant Wooden Cow (Scituate)
This giant, hand-carved wooden cow in Scituate is a quirky roadside oddity that might just stop you in your tracks. Located on a farm stand, it’s an oversized representation of one of Rhode Island’s favorite farm animals, making it a fun stop for animal lovers and those in need of a good photo op.
9. The Old Stone Tower (Smithfield)
The Old Stone Tower in Smithfield is a mysterious, solitary structure that sits on a quiet hill, surrounded by nothing but trees. The origins of this tower are shrouded in mystery, with some claiming it was part of an old estate or a lookout post. Regardless of its origins, it’s an odd and interesting sight, offering a slice of Rhode Island’s quirky history.
10. The Big Rock (Narragansett)
Located near Narragansett, this giant rock formation is quite literally just a big rock—one that is a popular destination for photos and sightseeing. It may seem simple, but its imposing size and coastal location make it an interesting landmark. The rock has even become a popular destination for local folklore and curiosity.
11. The Clingstone House (Jamestown)
Sitting on a small island off Jamestown, The Clingstone House is one of the most unique homes you’ll ever see. Built on a massive rock in the middle of the water, this “House on the Rock” (not to be confused with the one in Wisconsin) is a fascinating architectural wonder. While it’s not open to the public, it’s certainly a sight to behold from afar, adding a sense of mystique to the state’s coastline.
Rhode Island may be the smallest state, but it’s full of quirky roadside attractions that reflect its offbeat charm. Whether you’re a fan of giant sculptures or strange optical illusions, there’s no shortage of oddities waiting to be explored.
SOURCES
[1] https://sillyamerica.com/blog/best-rhode-island-roadside-attractions/
[2] https://www.fiftygrande.com/50-weirdest-roadside-attractions/
[3] https://www.aol.com/america-weirdest-most-wonderful-roadside-142202473.html
[4] https://www.atlasobscura.com/things-to-do/rhode-island
[5] https://www.reddit.com/r/RhodeIsland/comments/xh2nin/weirdest_sitesattractions_in_rhode_island/
