American Roadside

Well, I'm almost all set on my little summer vacation — it's not a road trip with quirky attractions, but a vacation nonetheless. I've always been drawn to the kitsch of American roadsides, so while I'm on a plane Wednesday morning, I'll be daydreaming about all of these little spots. Check them out after the jump.



Well, apparently there are a lot of Paul Bunyans in Michigan. This particular one, in Ossineke, has really odd proportions. Love it. Babe (ten feet) was built first in 1938 and Paul (25 feet) came later in 1953. This old photo is rad — but apparently the statues were moved and repainted around 2006. Map.


I'm not going to lie. I think that The Donut Hole in La Puenta, CA, is one of the best concepts ever. I mean, heck. You drive through a donut to pick up donuts. Pinch me, I'm dreamin'! Map.


I actually went to Prehistoric Forest back when Geoff and I were still dating. His family lived up near Marblehead, OH, and we had heard that it was their final day open and bolted over. If you're a fan of Chris Farley, you may remember this from Tommy Boy. Sadly, though, the park has closed and all of the weird, misshapen dinos are up for sale.

Images via Flickr [1] [2]

When I was growing up, my a parents used to take us on long road trips. Two of my older brothers are golfers and we couldn't resist the urge of a mini golf course. I still love these things now and it's easily my dream First Date Spot. (Alright, men, who's ready to quote Happy Gilmore with me for an hour or so?). Find some here.

Image via Flickr

I have a soft spot for vintage motel and diner signs. I follow a lot of vintage hunters, artists, and sign makers who are constantly posting spots on Instagram — both current and closed. I take a lot of inspiration from the color ways and type. These babes are scattered all over the place and I always seem to stumble across them in Philly and Chicago.

What are your favorite kitschy spots?