Jill's Quirky & Weird Landmarks, Big Things and Overall Roadside Kitsch

El Imperio Discoteque, A Latin Night Club Thats Fiery Hot! Norcross, GA

2011-03-01T18:48:00.003-05:00

El Imperio is so hot, they have a dragon for a mascot...

Thanks to Karla and James for this spicy spotting!

Giant Ice Cream Stand, Orlando, Fl

2011-02-28T19:08:00.000-05:00

Recently, on a road trip to Orlando, my friend Rachel and I came across this giant ice cream stand. Obviously inspired by the iconic Twistee Treats, these guys tripled the size and placed it in a great visual location, where it is scene from quite a far way down the road. Of course, we had to pull over and grab a shot, ah-mazing!

Thanks to Rachel Ezzo for the perfect posing! xoxo

Giant Golf Ball Sculpture, Palm Beach, Fl

2011-02-27T19:12:00.000-05:00

I puked at The World's Largest Peanut in Ashburn, GA

2011-02-25T19:14:00.004-05:00

This giant nut was a HUGE must-see for me, so when I finally had a chance to road trip to South Georgia, I jumped on it. Little did I know that the night before, my super luxurious glasses of pink champagne would put a damper on the next-day early morning drive. But the time with a dear friend and the beautifully crowned peanut monument made the tortured drive worth it. So I sucked it up to pose in front if it, then promptly turned and tossed my salad. Now that's a memory.

Erected in February, 1975, this peanut was designed by A.R. Smith, Jr., and was dedicated to the memory of Nora Lawrence Smith, member of the Georgia Journalism Hall of Fame and co-publisher of the Wiregrass Farmer.

Giant Wizard, Orlando, FL

2011-02-24T17:28:00.000-05:00

If you look closely, you will see my friend, Rachel under the wizard, so you can tell the actual size of this thing. It's insanity!

Giant Red Paper Clip, Marietta, GA

2011-02-22T10:56:00.000-05:00

I was pretty excited to spot this giant paperclip in the backyard of an art gallery in Marietta. I was totally excited to sit on it, but alas, it was made of plumbing pipes painted red.... almost makes me want to build one for myself!

Drakes Motel, Wells, Maine

2010-09-15T19:56:00.001-04:00

I just loved the look of this run-down hotel in Maine.

Check out Gabriel Aldaz's new book: Right Palm Up, Left Palm Down

2010-06-03T17:46:00.004-04:00

Gabriel shares the same passion for fiberglass giants so he wrote a book! Check him out!

http://rightpalmup.com

Bryan College Station, Itasca, TX

2009-11-05T13:12:00.002-05:00

"We went to Bryan College Station this weekend and on the way home we stopped when I saw this big cat. It's the Itasca Wild Cat mascot. I had Uncle Roger stop so I could get a picture for you. I'm keeping my eye out for unique things and carry my camera with me all the time now. Hope you like it. Love you, Aunt Susan"

A sweet thanks to my Aunt Susan who is such a good sport to join in on the fun!

Isaac Poses in Front of his 1st Landmark!! East Granby, CT

2009-11-04T13:00:00.002-05:00

We are breaking him into tradition... quirky landmark photo ops... I didn't realize how posing my first nephew on a fiberglass creature can totally bring this addiction to a whole another level... too excited! I can only hope that he will have the love like I do, so we can visit many together for years to come...

Thank you Mary & Mike, you are the best. I still can't even believe you did this for me...

Marilyn gets Goosed, Savannah, GA

2009-10-05T13:29:00.000-04:00

Wooo, you're getting frisky, Leanne!

Our 10 Year Wedding Anniversary at Rock City, Lookout Mountain, GA

2009-07-04T14:04:00.008-04:00

For our ten-year anniversary, since I am a romantic at heart, all I wanted to do was to enjoy a picnic on Lover's Leap at Rock City. For some reason, Rock City is the epitome of romance on a retro level.

To me, Rock City is THE landmark of all landmarks, with the history of the all-time best advertising around. With so many industry firsts, Rock City has been a place I've wanted to go for some time now, so it was perfect that I got to spend my tenth anniversary there with my true love.

Rock City Gardens’ history as a world-famous tourist attraction dates back to the days of the Great Depression, but its history as a geological marvel of nature reaches back several million years before that.

Historical evidence shows that Native Americans inhabited Lookout Mountain. It was in 1823 that two missionaries, Daniel S. Butrick and William Chamberlain, arrived in the area to minister to the Indians. On August 28, 1823, Reverend Butrick made an entry in his diary describing “a citadel of rocks,” atop the mountain, noting the immense size of the boulders and stating that they were arranged in such a way “as to afford streets and lanes.”

By the time the Civil War reached the slopes of Lookout Mountain, more and more people had discovered what was already being called “the Rock City.” During the famous battle of Lookout Mountain, both a Union officer and a Confederate nurse speculated in separate diary entries that one could see seven states from atop the summit. Rock City remained well known to hikers and geologists throughout the latter portion of the 1800’s, but it would take the dawning of a new century before the fabulous Rock City would reach its full potential.

The man who would eventually make Rock City a household name was, appropriately enough, himself a product of the Tennessee hills. Garnet Carter was born in Sweetwater, Tennessee in 1883. At the age of 11, he and his family took up residence near Chattanooga on Lookout Mountain. A born promoter, Carter had tried and succeeded at a number of business ventures before hitting on the idea of developing a residential neighborhood on the top of Lookout Mountain. Launched in 1924, the new community was to be known as Fairyland, named so because of his wife Frieda’s long-time interest in European folklore. One of the enticing features of Fairyland was to be a golf course, but construction took considerably longer than was planned. In order to appease those who were clamoring to play golf, Carter responded by fashioning what is now recognized to be the nation’s first miniature golf course. Because of its popularity, Carter decided to franchise this miniature golf concept all over the United States; hence, the origins of Tom Thumb Golf.

While Garnet Carter was “putting” around with Tom Thumb Golf, Frieda Carter had begun a project of her own. The 700 acres of Fairyland also encompassed the legendary Rock City, and Frieda set out to develop this property into a rock garden to end all rock gardens. When the Depression hit, Tom Thumb Golf fell to the “rough” and Garnet focused on his other business interests. It appeared to him that Frieda’s endeavor with Rock City had possibilities.

Frieda has taken string and marked a trail that wound its way around the giant rock formations, ending at the giant outcropping known as Lover’s Leap. She also had collected wildflowers and other plants, and had them transplanted along her trail. Frieda’s gardening was supplemented by imported German statues of gnomes and famous fairytale characters, which were stationed at points along the trail. Entrepreneur that he was, Garnet realized his wife had something there that lots of other people might be willing to pay to see. The rest, as they say, is history.

Rock City officially opened as a public attraction on May 21, 1932. It got off to a slow start, because advertising in those days was difficult; especially since Carter’s mountain-top attraction was not located in a place that people would just happen to be passing by and take notice. It was at this point another brilliant idea of Carter’s was born. He enlisted the help of a young sign painter named Clark Byers, who was hired to travel the nation’s highways and offer to paint a farmer’s barns in exchange for letting him paint three simple words: See Rock City. The distinctive black-and-white signs appeared as far north as Michigan and as far west as Texas. The advertising soon began to produce the desired effect and, by the close of the 1930’s, more travelers than ever had seen Rock City Gardens.

Since its beginnings, Rock City has continued to attract an increasing number of tourists from all over the world. Each year, more than half a million people visit the attraction to enjoy the many natural splendors that abound. Over the years, several features have been added to the original attraction, including the popular Fairyland Caverns and Mother Goose Village, the Cornerstone Station, as well as a myriad of shops and restaurants. In addition, annual events such as the Rock City’s Enchanted Garden of Lights during the holiday season bring guests in by the droves. And the gardens Frieda so lovingly planted have also grown through the years to include more than 400 different species of native wildflowers, shrubs, and trees.

As Rock City Gardens moves past the 75th year of operation, it has become a true American icon. Under the able leadership of Bill Chapin, a third-generation descendant of Garnet and Frieda, Rock City’s mission is to “Create Memories Worth Repeating.” With its nostalgic history, as well as its continual expansion for the future, Rock City Gardens has earned its reputation as a world-class destination and promises to be for generations to come.
History from seerockcity.com

SEE ROCK CITY!

Sir Goony's Golf, Chattanooga, TN

2009-07-04T13:13:00.007-04:00

Since miniature golf was basically invented at Rock City, there was no way that we could not play a romantic game of miniature golf in Chattanooga during our anniversary trip.

Sir Goony's has been around since 1960. Eventually with their success at this location, they began locations all over the US starting with Florida. The unique, retro figures were designed by Barbara Magrath who along with her husband Dutch Magrath which set them apart from other mass-produced mini golf courses.

Miniature golf was first patented by Garnet Carter (see Rock City) in 1927 and was originally called Tom Thumb Golf. Garnet Carter built his miniature golf course on Lookout Mountain in Tennessee to draw traffic to the hotel he owned. His wife, Frieda Carter did most of the designing of the course's obstacles which had a fairyland theme since she was a lover of folklore and nursery rhymes.

I love owls! This is the first giant owl I've ever seen!

Oh, they have a muffler man too!!

Really Big Chimes, Americasmart, Atlanta, GA

2009-06-26T08:46:00.002-04:00

Giant Santa, The Christmas Shoppe, Helen, GA

2009-06-25T16:42:00.001-04:00

Been on the lookout for this one... saw it on someone's Flickr and been searching ever since...

Owltown, GA

2009-06-23T16:26:00.003-04:00

On our road trip to Helen, GA, we stopped somewhere in Owltown and enjoyed a great owl-themed thrift store and this strange, strange tourist trap...

Ave Maria Grotto, Cullman, Alabama

2009-06-22T15:39:00.012-04:00

Usually I don't tend to visit religious landmarks, but at the thought of being a giant next to the miniature buildings, I quickly rethought my landmark list and set this as a "must-see". With my mother-in-law and grandmother-in-law in tow, we drove to Alabama with thoughts of godzilla-like strength.

"Ave Maria Grotto, known throughout the world as "Jerusalem in Miniature," is a beautifully landscaped, four-acre park designed to provide a natural setting for the 125 miniature reproductions of some of the most famous historic buildings and shrines of the world. The masterpieces of stone and concrete are the lifetime work of Brother Joseph Zoettl, a Benedictine monk of St. Bernard Abbey. Begun as a hobby, with various materials he could find, and infinite patience and a remarkable sense of symmetry and proportion, Brother Joseph re-created some of the greatest edifices of all time.

The builder of the miniatures at the Ave Maria Grotto was a Benedictine Monk--Brother Joseph Zoettl, O.S.B. Born in Landshut, Bavaria in 1878, he was maimed in an accident that gave him a hunchback, but luckily it did not hurt his ability to bend over and build the miniatures. He came to Saint Bernard Abbey in 1892. After becoming a Brother in the Benedictine Order, he was appointed to the power plant for the Abbey, and while there he developed his hobby of building miniature shrines."

The shrines are built with such meticulous detail and with things all around the house. The grotto is the epitome of recycled art!

Budweiser Clysdale Horse, Blue Ridge, GA

2009-06-21T16:17:00.000-04:00

We were thinking this is smaller than the real deal...

Another Pink Elephant Sighting!, Nashville, TN

2009-05-17T07:35:00.001-04:00

Jill & sister Jill meet pink elephant #3...

Giant Rotating Guitar, Hard Rock Cafe, Nashville, TN

2009-05-16T07:26:00.000-04:00

Giant Rusted Mug, Merrimack County Farm, NH

2009-05-15T19:18:00.002-04:00

Thanks a latte, Mary, for this stellar shot

Five 'world's largest' roadside attractions by CNN

2009-04-30T13:05:00.003-04:00

By Jacque Wilson

(CNN) -- The fiberglass head weighed 600 pounds and resembled Clarabell the Clown from the 1950s "Howdy Doody Show." Bill Ziegler, owner of the Wild Bill's nostalgia store, stumbled across it on an artist's Web site and wondered if it would work for a project

Ziegler recruited the artist to help him attach the giant head to his 33-foot farm silo. By October 2008, the pair had built the world's largest jack-in-the-box.

The jack-in-the-box extends 50 feet in the air, moving up and down approximately once a minute. "They love it," Ziegler said of the tourists who come to his store. He's had visitors from as far away as England -- one couple who saw the story of the jack-in-the-box in a British newspaper decided to stop by.

All across the country, roadside attractions like this one bring surprise and delight to travelers who just have to get a closer look.

"In many parts of the country, you can plan an entire road trip where you visit nothing but 'world's largest' attractions," said Doug Kirby, the publisher of RoadsideAmerica.com.

Kirby's Web site pays homage to odd attractions -- from Ziegler's jack-in-the-box in Middletown, Connecticut, to the world's largest ketchup bottle in Collinsville, Illinois, to the world's largest sundial in Carefree, Arizona.

"Travelers enjoy the noncorporate, somewhat ragged nature of these eclectic attractions," Kirby said. "They're often free, and you can take a great 'wish you were here' photo." See photos of some "world's largest" attractions »

Kirby picked five world's largest attractions from his Web site. In addition to Ziegler's jack-in-the-box, here are his top recommendations for adventurous road trippers:

Ball of twine

Visitors do more than snap a picture at the world's largest ball of twine in Cawker City, Kansas. Linda Clover, self-described keeper of the ball, gives tourists twine to add it to the attraction.
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"People like to be a part of it," Clover said. "It shows that with lots of patience and a lot of people helping out, you can end up with something very big."

Clover ended up in charge of the ball in a roundabout way. Farmer Frank Stoeber started the ball of twine in 1953. When he died, his cousin took over. And when his cousin died, Clover stepped up.

"I know that people like to come and see it. And someone had to take care of it," she said. "My husband used to say that people asked me to do something and I couldn't say no."

Clover keeps twine with her in case an interested tourist gives her a call. The ball measures more than 40 feet across. It contains 7.9 million feet of twine and weighs approximately 19,000 pounds. And every year in August, Cawker City hosts a twine-a-thon event to hold on to the world's largest ball of twine record.

Salem Sue

Salem Sue, dubbed the world's largest cow, is in Salem, North Dakota. She measures 38 feet tall, 50 feet long and is made up of 12,000 pounds of fiberglass.

Scott Schauer, producer of The Real North Dakota project, features Salem Sue on his Web site, which is dedicated to showing tourists the best of North Dakota. As a kid, Schauer used to drive by the cow with his family. He thinks many people pass similar road trip traditions on to their kids, hence their appeal.

"I remember being mesmerized by their monstrous size. No matter how many times I saw them, I always looked forward to seeing them again and again," Schauer said. "As an adult, I still look forward to seeing them. I guess some things don't change with time."

Horseshoe crab

The world's largest horseshoe crab resides in a parking lot at the Freedom Worship Baptist Church in Blanchester, Ohio. Last year, the church's pastor, Jim Rankin, hired Evel Knievel's former bodyguard to jump over the crab on his motorcycle. The publicity stunt attracted nearly 8,000 visitors to the church.

The crab is 68 feet long from its head to its long, spiky tail. "It can have up to 65 people inside," Rankin said.

Peanut

In the 1970s, Ashburn, Georgia, built a monument to the state's No. 1 cash crop.

Standing atop a brick tower along Interstate 75, the world's largest peanut can be seen for miles. The peanut is 33 feet tall with a 10-foot circumference.

The peanut was featured on a Go-Gurt portable yogurt packet as a trivia question, said Shelley Zorn, Ashburn's chamber of commerce president. It also showed up on a Food Network show.

"Hilarious, isn't it?" Zorn said of the public's love affair with the peanut. "I can meet people on a cruise ... and I ask them if they've seen it. Nine out of 10 people have seen that peanut, no matter where they're from."

A legacy

Recognition is the main reason people build the world's largest attractions, Kirby said. His site rates places higher if they surprise his staff or make them laugh. iReport.com: See the "world's largest rocking chair"
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"Towns build giant statues to promote themselves and take pride in local heroes, historic figures or industries," Kirby said. "Businesses commission creation of giants so they stand out from their competition. For individuals, a 'world's largest' something may be a hobby gone out of control. ... Creators fret about their legacy. This 'world's largest' may be how the world remembers them."

That is, until someone builds a bigger one.

Muffler Man, Babe's & Lightning Muffler Service, San Jose, CA

2009-03-30T13:43:00.002-04:00

Another muffler man sighting provided by the fabulous and great Nancy!

Giant Frying Pan Sign, The Original Pancake House, Atlanta, GA

2009-03-29T13:38:00.000-04:00

The Original Pancake House was founded in Portland, Oregon in 1953 by Les Highet and Erma Hueneke. Drawing upon their many years of experience in the culinary field, and their extensive working knowledge of authentic national and ethnic pancake recipes they were able to offer without compromise this unique and original menu which has gained national acclaim. There are 4 locations left in the state of Georgia.

Giant Blueberry Man, Halifax, Canada

2009-03-27T13:23:00.004-04:00

Thanks to my possible long-lost relative Jill Veysey for this rad shot. (Yes, her name is Jill Veysey too! Craaazzzy!)

Huge Shuttlecock, The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, Kansas City, MO

2009-02-16T22:08:00.004-05:00

This shuttlecock was built in 1994 by Oldenburg, my favorite artist, and his wife. It is made of aluminum and fiber-reinforced plastic painted with polyurethane enamel and is one of four 18-foot tall sculptures.

Thanks to Amanda for this awesome addition to my landmark collection! You grabbed a shot of an important one!

World's Largest Office Chair, Anniston, AL

2009-01-04T09:00:00.003-05:00

After a battle with many other states such as Massachusetts and North Carolina, Miller Office Furniture erected this mammoth of a chair in 1981 and made all others bow down in awe. After seeing other chairs fall victim to vandals and major storms, Miller used their resources to build this chair out of ten tons of steel making it 31 feet high and 21 feet across. This chair has served as a perfect advertisement for the company for the past 2 decades while others are still scrambling to make something bigger.

Excitement Level: ****
Importance level: *****

Giant Cup of Coca-Cola, Anniston, AL

2009-01-02T21:47:00.000-05:00

Interesting Signage in Anniston, AL

2009-01-01T21:16:00.009-05:00

Damn Yankees Restaurant

Goal Post BBQ - The player kicks the ball over the goal post and all the way to the building. This is quite the unique sign!

Think Toys - A toy store that looked reeeallly old. It was closed so I could not get more info.

Old McDonald's sign

Art Works Gallery - A nice art deco mural, could be really old, possibly.

Yellow Elephant, Anniston, AL

2008-12-31T21:26:00.003-05:00

This yellow elephant has had a few different jobs in and around Anniston. Currently, he is advertising the Yello Cellular company.

Half a Volkswagen Bus, Mellow Mushroom on Peachtree, Atlanta GA

2008-12-30T08:04:00.001-05:00

Tutlanta

2008-12-29T09:37:00.006-05:00

Known for his association with King Tut, Anubis towers over the passing traffic and looms above, with innocent passerby-ers ignorant of its real morbid reason for existence... being the patron god of embalming.

The following is found from www.daylife.com & Reuters Pictures

"This photo, supplied by the Michael C. Carlos Museum, shows a worker securing the jackal-headed god Anubis, believed to be the guide and protector of the dead in ancient Egypt, to his perch in midtown Atlanta, on Thursday, Oct. 23, 2008. At five tons and 25 feet, Anubis makes an imposing guide and protector for the ancient treasures, as the Atlanta Civic Center prepares for the U.S. premiere of the new "Tutankhamun: The Golden King and the Great Pharaohs" exhbition, which opens on November 15. The exhibit is sponsored by Emory University's Michael C. Carlos Museum."

"A statue of jackal-headed god Anubis, 25 feet (7.6 metres) tall and weighing five tons, believed to be the guide and protector of the dead in ancient Egypt, is erected in the Midway next to the Cotton Bowl, in Dallas, Texas, September 22, 2008. The Dallas Museum of Art is making final preparations for the October 3 premiere of "Tutankhamun and the Golden Age of the Pharaohs," an extensive collection of more than 130 treasures from the tomb of King Tut and other Valley of the Kings tombs."

Giant Muscle Man Sign, Buckhead, Atlanta, GA

2008-12-28T08:00:00.001-05:00

Giant Bison, Ted's Montana Grill, Atlanta, GA

2008-12-27T18:58:00.005-05:00

Ted's Montana Grill is owned by Ted Turner and serves BISON!! I'm not sure what prompts owners to put huge animal landmarks in front of their restaurants of what they are serving, but it seems to work... Here's what the bison thinks of Ted's serving him....

Excitement Level: ****
Importance level: ***

Giant Red Ornaments, Capital City Plaza, Atlanta, GA

2008-12-25T23:45:00.001-05:00

Merry Christmas everyone!!

Super Barack, Metropolis, IL

2008-12-24T20:48:00.003-05:00

Seems like Barack likes to pose in front of quirky landmarks too. Go Barack!

Thanks to http://obama.senate.gov/ for this photo.

Giant Apple, Winchester, VA

2008-12-24T10:52:00.006-05:00

Winchester, VA is the apple capital of the world because of its 12 million bushels harvested every year. To celebrate their primary natural resource, the residents of the town host a Apple Blossom Festival, full of rides, food, fun and a parade. This gigantic apple was the star of a parade float for the first year of the festival. Ever since then, it has hung out in front of this building in the center of town.

An apple a day will keep the doctor away, but this apple could keep the dentist, the optomologist, the chiropractor, the dermatologist....

A super thanks to Missy for taking this tart shot of her family, Erich, Jade, and Dillon. And a thanks to Erich for actually getting his family out there to capture this awesome landmark!

Giant Necco Roll, Necco Factory & Store, Revere, MA

2008-12-23T15:11:00.005-05:00

Since 1847, Americans and people around the world have enjoyed NECCO Wafers.

NECCO’s long-standing success in the candy business is closely related to the enduring popularity of the company’s core product – the NECCO Wafer. A multi-colored, fat-free wafer available in eight flavors, a roll of NECCO Wafers is a candy favorite for all times.

In 1847, a young English immigrant, Oliver Chase, invented the first American candy machine, a lozenge cutter. After initial success selling his new candy, he and his brother, Silas Edwin, founded Chase and Co., which became the pioneer member of the NECCO family.

The original recipe for the NECCO Wafer remains basically unchanged today, and the Wafers are still made in the original eight flavors: orange, lemon, lime, clove, chocolate, cinnamon, licorice, and wintergreen. The ingredients are simply sugar, corn syrup, gelatin, gums, colorings and flavorings.

In 1913, explorer Donald MacMillan took NECCO Wafers on his Arctic explorations, using them for nutrition and as rewards for Eskimo children. In the 1930’s, Admiral Byrd took 2 ½ tons of NECCO Wafers to the South Pole, practically a pound a week for each of his men during their two-year stay in the Antarctic.

The U.S. Government requisitioned a major portion of the production of NECCO Wafers during World War II. The candy doesn’t melt and is practically indestructible during transit, making it perfect for shipping overseas to the troops.

There has been a resurgence in the popularity of NECCO Wafers in recent years as consumer demand for non-fat sweets has increased. In addition, feelings of nostalgia on the part of baby boomers and other age groups have impacted sales of the candy.

Today, NECCO produces approximately four billion wafers on an annual basis. If the Wafers were placed edge to edge, they would go around the world twice. A whole roll takes about 40 minutes to eat. What other candy bar can make that claim?

In addition, creative NECCO Wafer fans have invented various additional uses for Necco Wafers over the years. They have been used as poker chips, for practice before a first communion and as bulls-eyes at target ranges. If only Oliver Chase could have known.

NECCO doesn’t tamper with success and NECCO Wafers just keep rolling along.

Thanks to Necco's website for this awesome and interesting biography.
And many sweet thanks to Mary and Mike for this shot!

Atlanta Cat Show

2008-11-30T13:39:00.004-05:00

I know a cat show isn't a landmark, but it was on my list to-do before I die, so I thought I'd share some video of the poor, confused cat that won. Meow!

World's Largest Egg?, Mentone, IN

2008-10-20T19:46:00.001-04:00

On a less-traveled road in the middle of nowhere sits the contested "world's largest egg". (The other eggs that claim the same title are in Washington and Alberta, Canada.) This Egg is made of concrete, weighs 3,000 pounds, and is about 10 feet high. It was originally constructed in 1946 to advertise the local egg festival. Although it wasn't in the best condition, it was still pretty cool to see. I've seen this in a few books about important landmarks, so I was happy to get a snapshot in front of it. The town seems less than amused, since it was so far off a main highway, I'm sure they don't see the likes of me a lot. I guess I was in "Amish-town" cause I got to see a horse and buggy get-up pass by, which was almost as amusing as the egg itself. Very interesting I would have to say about the time I spent in Mentone. But that's probably because this is my first time in the Midwest and corn fields scare me..

Excitement Level: *****
Importance level: *****

Giant Lobster Claw, Geddy's Restaurant, Bar Harbor, ME

2008-10-20T09:34:00.000-04:00

Thanks to Mary who seems to really dig lobster.

Gross Hot Dog Man, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

2008-10-15T21:29:00.002-04:00

I have been debating on if I wanted to post this since I find it so repulsive. But I guess I will be a good sport and put it up here for others to enjoy. One question though: would ketchup really tempt me to eat myself?? Wrong on so many levels...

Thanks to Isaac Eiland-Hall for asking me to find more info on this, because I found out it is not in Florida, but South Carolina! This edible guy is in front of Mr. G's Ice Cream & Grill.

Thanks to Christopher for being a good sport and doing a pose in front of Mr. Cannibal Weiner.

Big Boy, Somewhere in New Jersey

2008-10-11T21:25:00.001-04:00

Nancy and LeeAnn were lucky enough to find a Big Boy Restaurant that had the old school big boy AND the new 2.0 version...

Boot Car, Los Angeles, CA

2008-10-10T21:23:00.002-04:00

We snapped this photo while we sped by. Very strange, but a very cool idea!

Giant Pink Elephant & Indian Muffler Man, Red River Antique Mall, Cross Plains, TN

2008-09-17T07:08:00.004-04:00

Across the way from a giant fireworks superstore, are these two lonely, neglected fellows. We stopped and gave them some love. Dave, on the other hand, was not as interested... (this is what he gets for telling me he doesn't read my blog)

Giant Bowling Pin, Expo Bowl, Indianapolis, IN

2008-09-16T07:04:00.002-04:00

We didn't even see this from the road. It was only on our pee-break, that we discovered it. How's that for fate? The Quirky Landmark gods are looking out for me...

Giant Garden Shovel, Habig Garden Shop, Indianapolis, IN

2008-09-15T08:57:00.004-04:00

This photo just speaks to me on so many levels. How many times can this photo have the word big in it?? It's just so perfect, it cracks me up.

A Smorgasbord of Weird Crap, PK Distributors, Peru, IN

2008-09-14T10:44:00.007-04:00

I was disappointed that they were closed, but I still jumped over the rope and walked around the outdoor displays. But what a very lucky person, whoever owns this store. I am jealous! My favorite piece they had was the flying pig, I like how much detail was put into it... a little too much detail one would say!

Giant Corn, Wilson Farm Market, Arcadia, IN

2008-09-13T08:38:00.003-04:00

Wilson Farm Market is located halfway between Indianapolis and Kokomo, Indiana on U.S. 31 and prides itself on its sweet corn. I know it's corny, but I like their giant ear of corn a lot.

Nancy's Obsession with Chairs, Somewhere in Indiana

2008-09-12T08:59:00.003-04:00

Dave didn't want to get out of the car for this one, but Nancy did... and even posed in front of it, what a friend!!

Strange Artistic Roofs, somewhere in Indiana

2008-09-10T19:23:00.004-04:00

Someone in this town is veeerrry creative!

This entry is dedicated to Andy.

Cowtown Rodeo, Pilesgrove, NJ

2008-09-09T08:28:00.001-04:00

A three-generation run establishment, Cowtown has been around since 1955 and offers cowboys and cowgirls a serious arena to compete in such competitions as Barrel Racing, Calf Roping, Bronc Riding, and Steer Wrestling... and less serious events such as leg-humping (see photo of Nancy attached to the cowboy's leg) and fiberglass cow-milking (see photo of Nancy again).

The famous 20-foot "Cowboy" has stood in front of Cowtown for over 35 years, greeting passerbys from Route 40. Not much is known about the cowboy's past except his place of birth on the West Coast. The owner has said that his grandfather bought it at an auction in the 70's. Some say he is a muffler man, but his face structure shows that he may have been made of a different mold. He used to have a lariat rope in his hand but people kept on swinging on it, so it was taken down. His cow friend was added later.

Nancy, you are such a moooooover and shaker, thanks for this shot of an important landmark.

Grand Guitar, Bristol, TN

2008-09-08T09:20:00.003-04:00

The Guitar Museum houses a collection of rare and unusual instruments, including guitars, ukuleles, lap steels, resonator guitars, banjos, mandolins, dulcimers, auto harps, and violins. They range from primitive American handmade to exotic instruments from different countries. 70 feet long, three stories tall, the guitar neck inlay and sound hole are windows.

Thanks to LeeAnn for taking part in this landmark finding!

Wilbur the Lobster, Hancock, ME

2008-09-07T11:11:00.002-04:00

This Lobster is 20' long and nicknamed "Wilbur". He resides at Ruth and Wimpy's Kitchen.

A special thanks to Mary for putting her neck out there for this fantastic shot.

Giant Root Beer Barrel, Blueberry Festival, Plymouth, IN

2008-09-06T11:15:00.007-04:00

Here is a shot of Val and I in front of this giant barrel that could probably hold enough root beer to last me a lifetime.

The Blueberry Festival is held once a year and boosts a impressive fair-goer count of 500,000. Among many activities including bluberry pie eating, fireworks and blueberry stomping, they do a hot air balloon launch. Seeing hot air balloons hover over trees is definitely as exciting to me as seeing an over-sized landmark.

Big Rocking Chair, Chard Furniture, Pilesgrove, NJ

2008-09-05T09:00:00.002-04:00

Chard Furniture was founded in 1970 by William Earl Chard and Mary B. Chard. Somewhere along that time, someone decided it would be a good idea to put a giant rocker in front to of the store. I couldn't agree with this idea more!

Nancy and LeeAnn, you are my landmark-spotting heroes!

Leaping Whale, Bar Harbor, ME

2008-09-04T09:58:00.003-04:00

Thanks to Mary for thinking of me when fiberglass whale-watching!

World's Largest Bat, Louisville Slugger Museum, Louisville, KY

2008-09-03T09:35:00.007-04:00

Over six stories high, this gigantic bat is modeled after the model R43, the bat designed to the specifications requested by Babe Ruth in the early 1920's. The bat is 120 feet tall and 9 feet wide. It weighs 68,000 pounds and is made of carbon steel in 1995. The top of the handle pokes out of the horizon of the city scape and is quite the vision to behold. The bat was a landmark I had been looking forward to for quite a while and was even better in person. It was quite breath-taking!!

Inside the museum, you can find the world's largest baseball glove made from compressed stone.

Next to the museum, you can find probably the world's largest broken window from a giant baseball.

Next to the museum, is a penguin-infested building that is a well-known contemporary art hotel. Their bathroom has been voted in the top 10 coolest bathrooms in the US, but I didn't know this until we left and I tried to research why there was red penguins everywhere. Supposedly, the bathroom walls sport one-way mirrors where you can pee in private, but watch people walking by.

Excitement Level: *****
Importance Level: *****

I See What You Mean, Denver, CO

2008-09-02T17:55:00.007-04:00

I See What You Mean, also known as The Blue Bear, spends his days peering in a window on the Colorado Convention Center's 14th Street facade. The sculpture by Denver artist Lawrence Argent was commissioned in 2002 as part of the city's Percent for Art Program and installed in 2005 for only $424,000.

The artist had a model made on a prototyping machine, a printing device that turns digital images into actual objects. The bear was fabricated in California and transported to Denver on four trucks. The bear's impressive measurements include: height, 40 feet; weight, 10,000 pounds; chest, 18 feet; arm span (with paws pulled in), 22 feet, 4 inches. It is made of molded fiberglass, covered by a blue cement-like coating.

A special thanks to Rachel for braving the wrath of the big blue bear and catching this photo-op!

Giant Dragon, Thunder Mountain Fireworks, Caryville, TN

2008-09-01T18:14:00.001-04:00

This life-size lizard was found off an exit on I-75 in Tennessee at a fireworks super store.

Thank you to Nancy and LeeAnn for this fire-breather!

Giant Boot, LL Bean Outlet, Freeport, ME

2008-08-31T18:24:00.004-04:00

L.L. Bean is known for its outdoors-wear and of course, it's Bean Boot. Leave it to them to build this "shrine" to their best-seller.

Thanks to Mary and Mike for grabbing this photo-op. Hope it wasn't like a kick in the ass.

Dinosaur World, Cave City, KY

2008-08-30T18:35:00.004-04:00

After spending the night in Cave City, we were moving on to the next landmark, when right before the highway, we were amazed by a giant orange dino hiding behind the trees. After we got out to see him up close, we noticed that there was a whole park of dinosaurs like a twisted prehistoric Disneyworld. Although it would be terrifying to see a real dino up close, I found myself making out with the Triceratops.

A Life's Dream, Realized... Sleeping in a Wigwam, Cave City, KY

2008-08-29T18:48:00.015-04:00

One of my dreams was to experience sleeping in one of these fiberglass wigwams before they were all torn down. With only 3 remaining in the United States, I knew that I HAD to get to one of these to achieve the ultimate landmark experience. This wigwam village was built in 1937 by Frank A. Redford after buidling his first village close by in Horse City, KY. He got his inspiration from a building shaped like an upside-down ice cream cone-shaped shop and from of course, indian teepees from the Sioux Reservation. Five more were built over time in Alabama, Florida, New Orleans, California, and Arizona and some consider these the first hotel "chain" ever. Of the seven original Wigwam Villages, only three remain: #2 in Cave City, Kentucky, #6 in Holbrook, Arizona. and #7 in Riallto, California.

The layout of the 15 cabin-type teepees create a half-moon shape with a area in the center to encourage community and friendship. The main building sits in the center and is made up of 38 tons of concrete and 13 tons of steel, stands 52 feet high. It originally housed a restaurant and gift shop in the basement, but with the completion of Interstate 65 in the mid-60s, the restaurant was closed and this main building now houses a gift shop upstairs with storage below. Smaller wigwams on either side of the gift shop are public restrooms.

After driving 5 and a half hours to get there, we were very excited when we arrived. I talked my friend Nancy into stopping the night at this village, so she wasn't sure what to expect. As we pulled along the quiet road closer to the motel, we grew quiet with anticipation, and once we could see the giant teepees in the distance, we grew incredibly excited and overjoyed that we were getting this awesome opportunity to revel in this perfectly retro Americana experience.

Pulling up, we saw the main giant teepee with 15 smaller triangular cabins surrounding it. We got to stay in cabin #1, and we wondered how a room with a full bathroom could possibly fit into a teepee comfortably. As we turned the key, we entered the cutest room, with a full size bed, but with mini-furniture perfectly themed for the room. The walls and ceiling had breath-taking angles that only emphasized the wigwam's triangular shape. The bathroom was in the back with fantastic zig-zagged tile that matched the outside of the wigwam. (see video) Sleeping in the wigwam did not feel like camping, but more like a typical mom and pop motel, only mini-sized.

We visited the gift shop the next morning. This main wigwam was full of indian-themed kitsch and memorabilia. Articles and write-ups about this fabulous chain filled the left wall of the gift shop from over the decades. The owner was very friendly and seemed almost immune to overly-stimulated retro landmark enthusiasts. After picking up a mini wigwam and some postcards, we knew our time was almost over at the landmark of the century. Sadly, we got in the car, only to hop out and take a few more photos. We never wanted it to end! This was a dream come true, and now I can say I have truly seen the best landmark ever!

Excitement Level: *****+
Importance level: *****+

Big Horsey, Manchester, TN

2008-08-28T23:52:00.001-04:00

This movable horse stands in front of Interstate Liquor off of Highway 65.

Giant Wooden Horse, Antique Row, New Hampshire

2008-07-30T14:40:00.003-04:00

A special thanks to my Mom for being involved and getting a photo of herself in front of this horse. Thanks Mom!

Giant Chik-Fil-A Cow, Turner Field, Atlanta, GA

2008-07-25T17:24:00.006-04:00

Are you as excited as I am about this??? I had absolutely no clue this gigantic cow would be at the stadium. But as we turned the corner, the enormous cow shadowed the previously mentioned huge Coke bottle. How incredibly exciting to see this massive vision from below.
As we climbed to the top of the stadium to visit this newly installed Chik-Fil-A bovine, I noticed that the arm seemed to be hinged. Could it be that this cow could mooove? Back in our seats, the game started and the tomahawk chop song hummed throughout the stands. I proceeded to chop my hand along with thousands of other people. It was then, that I looked up at me friend in the sky, and saw his hoof, moving in sync with my, and thousands, tomahawk chop. Oh, what a wonderful country we live in...

Excitement Level: *****
Importance Level: ****

World's Tallest Snowman, Bethel, Maine

2008-07-24T17:06:00.001-04:00

My sister and her husband, Mike, vistied Olympia last winter, and I just now got the photos. I am truly jealous; I'm sure that this was quite the odd landmark and a neck breaker, to look up at this big gal. Here are some facts about this giant chunk of snow:

Name: Olympia SnowWoman
Height: 122′1″;
Weight: 13,000,000 lbs. of snow;
5 foot wreaths for eyes;
16 skis for eyelashes;
“Carrot” nose made of muslin, chicken wire & wood frame by the MSAD #44 elementary school children;
5 red auto tires for lips, painted by the Mahoosuc Kids Association;
48 ft. circumference fleece hat made by the Mt. Valley Middle School students;
130 ft. scarf;
6 1/2 ft. Maine-mica snowflake pendant created by Jim Mann of Mt. Mann Jewelers;
30 ft. spruce trees for arms;
3 truck-loader tires for buttons;
2,000 ft. of rope hair!

Thanks to Mary & Mike for these photos!

Giant Ant, Portsmouth, NH

2008-07-23T17:13:00.002-04:00

Portsmouth, for all its indoor arts, has few outdoor public sculptures. Art-Speak, a city-sponsored group decided to do something about that. Each summer they sponsor a fresh collection by local artists. Nathan Walker decided his art would be in a form of a giant ant. Check out his website to see Nathan's blog detailing every step it took to build this massive bug, along with a chance to purchase your very own GIANT ANT t-shirt!

Thanks to Mary for these photos!

Chicken Boy, Los Angeles, CA

2008-07-20T16:54:00.003-04:00

Okay, I know it seems strange to see a giant man with a giant chicken head, but to me, it is quite amusing. Seems it's quite amusing to its owner as well, who saved "Chicken Boy" from the likes of a giant dumpster. Visit Chicken Boy's mom at www.chickenboy.com. CB's mom tells quite a story about her baby and also sells a wide variety of very, very odd merchandise showcasing the wonderful Chicken Boy on many different medias such as knee-high socks, a full length film, and an authentic Chicken Boy velvet painting.
My sister and I were very excited to visit Chicken Boy and to buy some kitsch memorabilia from the CB shop. Unfortunately the store was closed and we were totally bummed. Additionally, the Chicken Boy was hard to photograph or see very well since he was on top of a roof. But, CB was still a site to see with his giant bucket (with chicken in it??), and his huge white feathers. Chicken Boy made quite the impression on us. Maybe it was better the store was closed, we would have bought everything.

Excitement Level: ****
Importance Level: ***

Giant Barbell, Muscle Beach, Venice, CA

2008-06-10T23:05:00.002-04:00

When we were in California, we stayed on Venice Beach just steps away from the famous Muscle Beach. After the closing the original Muscle Beach in Santa Monica, the bodybuilding attention shifted south to the somewhat lesser-known Venice Beach Weight Pen, operated by the Los Angeles Recreation and Parks Department. A small, spartan weight pen was built near Windward in 1952, later replaced by the large current facility during a complete renovation and Muscle Beach Venice redevelopment effort in 1990, which sports a huge concrete barbell on the roof and bleachers for spectators. Today it is an open playground with a gated area that encloses weight lifting equipment and the second area of a giant sand box with gymnastic, rope climbing, and acrobatic bars. Dave Draper, Larry Scott, and Arnold Schwarzenegger used to be regulars, among many famous bodybuilders and actors who have trained there... including David Peirce and Jill Veysey... look at us go!

Excitement Level: *
Importance Level: **

Randy's Donut - The Quintessential LA Landmark

2008-06-09T23:36:00.010-04:00

Randy's Donut is a landmark that I have been wanting to see for a very long time. Part of one of the most recognized quirky landmarks ever, this 22 foot diameter donut is a classic example of visual mid-century architecture, where the shape of the building represents the product sold within. Randy's was built in 1953 as part of the now-defunct Big DoNut chain but at least four other Big Donuts survive (they are Kindle's Donuts in Los Angeles, the Donut King II in Gardena, Dale's Donuts in Compton, and Bellflower Bagels in Bellflower. Each features Robert Graham's donut sculpture). Randy's Donut has appeared in such movies as Earth Girls Are Easy, Mars Attacks!, Into the Night, Coming to America, Problem Child 2, California Girls, Love Letters and has shown up on the Simpsons, Futurama and Family Guy several times. During the '90's, it appeared for several years in the opening montage of the Tonight Show, with the camera zooming through the center of the doughnut and into the moon. It has also appears in music videos for Snoop Dogg, Randy Newman, and Red Hot Chili Peppers.

My sister, Mary, Dave and I visited Randy's Donuts on the way to the airport, and we're excited to see turn the corner to see the giant donut in the horizon. As we waited in line for a taste, the giant donut loomed over us, calling to us, saying EAT ME. Sorry, giant donut, no one could possibly eat a giant donut like you except maybe a giant muffler man...

Excitement Level: ****
Importance Level: *****

Venice Beach, A Quirky Landmark in Itself

2008-06-09T22:53:00.007-04:00

Venice Beach is really weird, but totally up my alley. There's nothing wrong with greased-up men on roller blades wearing american flag thongs. There's nothing wrong with men selling twigs and rocks. There's nothing wrong with a random person telling me that aliens are going to pick me up. And there's absolutely nothing wrong with seeing a two-headed turtle from the local freak-show. No... Venice Beach is perfectly normal. And so am I. So there!

Excitement Level: **
Importance Level: *

Giant Chair, Los Angeles, CA

2008-06-07T22:47:00.005-04:00

This giant metal chair is in front of the Pacific Design Center, where you can buy cutting-edge furniture from new-coming artists.

Excitement Level: *
Importance Level: *

A Glimpse of Hollywood

2008-06-06T17:13:00.010-04:00

Although it is extremely cliche, I do think that the stars and handprints deserve an entry. They are kind of weird. I thought they were pretty serious, but we kept on bumping into celebrities that were merely popular characters (like Kermit the Frog and Godzilla). I think that is pretty quirky. So here we go:

Also, here are a few various photos that we took from the area, that I thought were blog-worthy:

Excitement Level: ***
Importance Level: **

Hollywood Wax Museum, scary or fun?

2008-06-06T14:49:00.008-04:00

Another dream of mine is to visit a wax museum. It's quirkiness always peaked my interest as a child. I always would wonder why would one want to make a celebrity sculpture out of wax? Why make a museum of these figures at all? I guess its just one of those mysteries in life. But of course, it still remained on my "list", and that dream was filled during our trip to LA.

Although, I was a tad more excited than my sister and my husband, I think we were all a little jazzed to see what this house of wax would present once we walked through the entrance. The first half was a horror-montage of famous monsters and villains. Not so scary, kind of lame, but still cool, like a haunted house where nothing jumps out. As we turned the corner to see the celebrity section, it was then that I freaked. Some of the celebrities in normal lighting freaked me out so bad, I felt I could not breath. I don't know what it was, maybe how realistic the eyes were when the faces were not, soooo freaky!

In all, after I got over the initial shock of the eyes, it was fun to see what famous face would be around the next corner and at the end, we all looked at each other like, "that's it? awww..." Overall, the wax museum was worth it cost, and was not a disappointment. I highly suggest adding it to your "list".

Excitement Level: *****
Importance Level: *****

World's Largest Man Statue, Guinness Museum, Hollywood, CA

2008-06-06T14:06:00.006-04:00

The tallest man in medical history for whom there is irrefutable evidence is Robert Pershing Wadlow. He was born at Alton, Illinois, USA, on February 22, 1918, and when he was last measured on June 27, 1940, was found to be 8 ft 11.1 inches tall.

Wadlow died at 1:30 a.m. on July 15, 1940, in a hotel in Manistee, Michigan, as a result of a septic blister on his right ankle caused by a brace, which had been poorly fitted only a week earlier. He was buried in Oakwood Cemetery, Alton, in a coffin measuring 3.28 m (10 ft 9 in) long, 81 cm (32 in) wide and 76 cm (30 in) deep.

Wadlow's shoe size was 37AA and his hands measured 12¾ inches from the wrist to the tip of the middle finger. He wore a size 25 ring. His arm span was 9 ft 5¾ inches and his peak daily food consumption was 8000 calories.

Excitement Level: *
Importance Level: *

Thank you to Guinness World Records for this information on Mr. Wadlow

Giant Marble Elephants, Hollywood & Highland, Hollywood, CA

2008-06-06T13:07:00.007-04:00

Hollywood & Highland is a soaring, multi-story complex with grand stairways, imposing archways and Hollywood theming, including a spectacular Babylon Court, featuring mammoth pillars topped by gigantic marble elephants (reminiscent of D.W. Griffith's classic "Intolerance" set), and a towering archway framing the Hollywood Sign in the distance.

The giant elephants are so huge, I can't even explain it. There really were no good angles to fully show huge massive they are, but we were able to take a few shots on the sizable archway. You can see us waving!

Special note: Yeah, that's writing in the sky. Seems like Tori Spelling and her husband Dean, hired an aerial writer to welcome them home. Not that I know them, but I can read, and that's what it said in the sky. I actually thought aerial writers were just a made-up thing. It was pretty cool to see in real life.

Excitement Level: ***
Importance Level: **

Hollywood Sign, Hollywood, CA

2008-06-06T12:21:00.002-04:00

The Hollywood sign was originally built as a promotional gimmick for a real estate company in 1923, saying HOLLYWOODLAND. Since Hollywood was becoming the mecca for the movie industry and the super-luxurious movie star lifestyle, the Hollywood sign soon became a giant marquee for a city that was constantly in movie-star mode.

During the depression, the movie-star lifestyle soon became less popular, and the sign started to show signs of decay. In 1978, the sign was restored and lost the "land" on the end. Hugh Hefner was a large contributor to the restoration of the sign, along with Alice Cooper and Gene Autry.

Today, on-lookers cannot climb the hills (trust me, I wanted to!), but a good view is seen from Hollywood & Highland.

Excitement Level: ***
Importance Level: ***

Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco, CA

2008-06-05T12:38:00.002-04:00

I know it's not really a super-weird landmark, but it is super-huge and super-famous, so we had to stop and succumb to the fantastic photo-op, so here we are, in front of the Golden Gate Bridge...

Excitement Level: ****
Importance Level: **

It's Not Polite to Point! Hillsborough, CA

2008-06-05T11:00:00.002-04:00

Father Junípero Serra was a Spanish Franciscan friar who founded the mission chain in Alta, California in the 1700's. Serra was beatified by Pope John Paul II on September 25, 1988, this being the first step towards canonization, or promotion to sainthood, in the Catholic Church. When Interstate 280 was built in stages from Daly City to San Jose in the 1960's, it was named the Junipero Serra Freeway. So came the statue of Serra along the freeway in Hillsborough, California. The statue stands on a hill on the northbound side and has a large pointing finger facing the Santa Cruz Mountains and the Pacific.

But enough about history, I can't believe I was able to talk my uncle, cousin and his friend into pointing too. I'm so used to people just rolling their eyes at my landmark-collecting hobby. But this landmark was actually put on my list by my family and I was brought here to bask in the finger-pointing glory. So a super-special shout-out to Warren, Prudy, Charlie and Dale. Thank you for all the fun and for being great sports!

But my REAL question is: didn't anyone tell him that it's not polite to point?

Excitement Level: ****
Importance Level: *

Safety Pin, San Francisco, CA

2008-06-04T14:10:00.005-04:00

This giant safety pin is another landmark that I have been itching to see for a while. Over 21 feet hight, this giant pin also looks like it has fallen from the sky and has fallen in a weird way. Could it had fallen from giant cupid's diaper? Regardless, the pin sits peacefully in a garden at the deYoung Museum in San Francisco, with a multitude of other outdoor sculptures.

Excitement Level: *****
Importance Level: *****

Height Ashbury, San Francisco, CA

2008-06-04T13:58:00.003-04:00

Being in San Francisco, of course we had to visit Height & Ashbury in our aunt's cute red Volkswagen bug.
(If you didn't already know and have totally had your head up your butt for the last 50 years, Height Ashbury is the mecca of hippy-ism and all things peace and love... and quirkiness.)

Shop after shop were filled with t-shirts promoting love and peace, vintage clothing stores, head shops, and tie-dyes galore. We got to see a giant pair of fish-netted legs hanging out of a window, a Height & Ashbury sign come alive with a mustache, and the cutest shop called Kid Robot selling giant smoking bunny stools.

In all Height Ashbury was far out, groovy and way cool!

Excitement Level: **
Importance Level: **

World's Largest Bible? San Francisco, CA

2008-06-04T12:00:00.002-04:00

We drove by this giant church on the way to another landmark. I think it looks like a bible, so here it is, on my blog.

Excitement Level: *
Importance Level: *

Cupid's Span, San Francisco, CA

2008-06-04T11:36:00.002-04:00

This wonderful sculpture is another creation by my favorite artist, Claes Oldenburg and his wife, Coosje van Bruggen. Its taut bowstring and vertical arrow relate to the cables and towers of the Bay Bridge, showing a wonderful interaction with pop art in a natural setting.

I had been looking forward to seeing this giant sculpture, had even dreamed about it. It was definitely an amazing site, surreal and dream-like, like a giant cupid had dropped its bow in the dirt below. Breath-taking! Kudos to the artists!

Excitement Level: *****
Importance Level: *****

Olive You!, San Francisco, CA

2008-06-04T09:34:00.004-04:00

Not sure why this was here, but it's a giant olive, shaped like a heart! Awwww, aren't we cute??

Excitement Level: ****
Importance Level: **

Hand Car Wash, Studio City, CA

2008-06-02T23:27:00.004-04:00

Check out this giant hand, holding a car. We came across this on the way to another landmark. The funniest part are the hand-shaped chairs in the waiting area.

Excitement Level: ***
Importance Level: **

Original Bob's Big Boy, Burbank, CA

2008-06-02T19:42:00.007-04:00

It all began in 1936 when Bob Wian, the owner of a 10-seat diner in Glendale, California, invented an extraordinary double-decker hamburger and the "Big Boy" was born. The sandwich's success inspired Bob to name his diner Bob's Big Boy. When a customer sketched on a napkin a boy in overalls with a curl in his hair, the likeness became the diner's logo and is now one of the world's most recognized and beloved corporate icons. The Big Boy brand is both unique and powerful with worldwide recognition and positive acceptance.

The Big Boy itself began with Bob Wian in Glendale, California. Bob sold his car for $350.00 and opened a small restaurant called Bob’s Pantry. He set into operation a policy that persists today throughout all Big Boy restaurants ... the finest quality food and the best service.

Members of an orchestra playing in the vicinity stopped in the restaurant and asked Bob Wian if he could dream up something different than just a plain hamburger. “Why not,” Wian mused.

As if his hands were guided by an unseen force, he cut a regulation hamburger bun into three slices, and inserted not one but two hamburger patties into place. It was then garnished with a special and very delectable relish he had prepared. Wian handed the innovation to the players and anxiously awaited the decision.

“Wow,” they chorused. “This is it!” and it was. Other customers saw him preparing it and asked for one. They agreed with the musicians. Wian had made a better hamburger.

One day a chubby youngster walked into Wian’s now flourishing restaurant. “He was about six,” Bob recalled, “and rolls of fat protruded where his shirt and pants were designed to meet. I was so amused by the youngster -- jolly, healthy looking and obviously a lover of good things to eat, I called him Big Boy.” So why not name the new hamburger Big Boy? Wian did. That was the birth of the first double-decker hamburger.

This Bob's restaurant was built in 1949 by local residents Scott MacDonald and Ward Albert, and is the oldest remaining BOB'S BIG BOY in America. It was designed by respected architect Wayne McAllister, incorporating the 1940's transitional design of streamline modern style while anticiapting the freeform 50's coffee shop architecture. The towering BOB's sign is an integral part of the building design and its most prominent feature. The restaurant was honored in 1993, receiving the designation as a "STATE POINT OF HISTORICAL INTEREST" by the state of California. The current owner (the MacDonald Family) acquired control of the restaurant in 1993 and began to restore it to its past glory. An exterior patio was added; the tower sign was rehabilitated; the dining room was remodeled; "Car Hop" service was re-introduced on Saturday and Sunday nights; and on Friday nights a classic car show reverberates in the parking lot. Many resources were spent to restore the quality of food, service and hospitality which made BOB's a Southern California tradition.

You may recognize this famous fellow as Dr. Evil's giant escape rocket in Austin Powers. The Big Boy is one of the most recognized icons in the world along with McDonald's and Coca-Cola. It was my lame personal dream to see a Big Boy in person. Although I thought he would be much biggggger, he was still a stout little fella that I instantly fell in love with. Situated outside the front door, the Big Boy stood guard to the retro-luxurious emblem-embedded trash cans and golden plated double doors. Inside, my sister and I were surprised to find a diner; we had thought it would be like a self-serve McDonald's inside. With authentic diner furniture and fantastic chrome lighting, the interior set the mood for giant sodas and yummy burgers. And to my surprise, they had veggie burgers! Yum! I couldn't had asked for anything else, Bob's Big Boy was a dream come true for me.

(Thanks to bigboy.net and bigboy.com for the biographies)

Excitement Level: *****
Importance Level: *****

The Donut Hole, La Puente, CA

2008-06-02T08:29:00.002-04:00

Okay, I have to admit, this landmark was not on my list. But my sister found it online and wanted to go, so I reluctantly agreed, figuring it would at least be a nice drive together. We did get a tad lost, and had to ask for directions. "Hey, do you know where there is a giant drive-through donut?" is not what I really want to ask in East LA, but nonetheless, we did. Finally, when we came upon the sizable double donut drive-thru, we were amazed and extremely excited. I don't know why I wasn't more interested in the first place; this was the quirkiest, largest contraption-perfect for my lifelong landmark search. So after we took a few photos, we decided to try the donuts. We were reluctant since the place had been there since the 50's, and the donut holes (aka: munchkins) were only 15 cents each. So I plunged and bought a few holes, I thought it was worth the price either way. But once that donut hole hit my mouth, I was in total donut delight! I cannot remember ever even liking donuts like this, they were AMAZING!! Warm and soft, tasty with just the right amount of sugar coating, these donuts must be what they serve in heaven. We quickly ate our treats, and of course directly drove back through the Donut Hole to get more! Maybe all that sugar isn't so healthy, but who cares when you get to drive through the Donut Hole twice! Yay!!

Excitement Level: *****
Importance Level: ***

Giant Ballerina Clown, Venice, CA

2008-06-01T23:40:00.002-04:00

I think I will just let the photo do the talking on this one... too strange to explain...

Excitement Level: ****
Importance Level: ***

Binocular Building, Venice, CA

2008-06-01T23:29:00.002-04:00

This beautiful spectacle of quirkiness is another creation by my favorite artist, Claes Oldenburg along with Coosje van Bruggen. Built in 1991, this giant binocular shape is incorporated into a Frank Gehry designed building for the Chait/Day Mojo office building. The interior of the binoculars forms a conference room.

Excitement Level: *****
Importance Level: *****

Get Your Kicks at the End of Route 66!

2008-06-01T23:09:00.003-04:00

My original plan was to drive all of old Route 66 this summer, but due to time constraints and gas prices, my sister and I decided to skip the road and go directly to the trip, Santa Monica Boulevard.

In 1926, the "mother road" was created to promote people to travel to places they have never been and went from Chicago all the way to Los Angeles. In the 50's, the pop culture status of the road blew up and Route 66 represented the glorious, all-American way to travel. For me, Route 66 represents quirky landmarks and oversized fiberglass creations to lure in any innocent tourist. Route 66 was the reason why fiberglass creatures were made; many were born to live on this road. Sadly, in the late 50's, the road became less traveled when high-speed roadways were built all around it. To this day, people that live on the old route still live in a constant Route 66 daze, with memorabilia to last many lifetimes.

Santa Monica Boulevard is the end of Route 66, and it was a very important stop on our list. As I walked straight down the road, it became a boardwalk with a small amusement park, and eventually a pier that stopped at a metal railing with the never-ending ocean beyond. I visualized people reaching the pier. I thought of how excited it must had been after days of traveling. But then I thought of all of the great landmarks along the way, and changed my mind to think that maybe it was bittersweet after all.

Excitement Level: ***
Importance Level: *****

Big Willy, Panama City, FL

2008-05-26T16:43:00.005-04:00

Situated as a front entrance of a beach gift shop in Panama City, Big Willy can swallow you whole!

Tommy Crab, Myrtle Beach, NC

2008-05-20T16:38:00.001-04:00

This restaurant grabs your attention as you drive by with its super-sized orange crab hanging over the entrance. Named “Tommy Crab”, it is 35 feet wide by 25 feet tall, weighs 4.5 tons, and took six men and a huge crane to place it on the building.

Wild Bill's, Lexington, NC

2008-05-12T18:32:00.006-04:00

Yeeeeha! Wild Bill here, stepping in for Jill today. Just wanted to stop by and say come visit me at the I-95 truck stop in Lexington. You may wonder who I am, why I am even here? Well, back in the 60's, I used to be at the first drive-thru in Birmingham, Alabama, called Wagon Ho. Now I beacon to ongoing truck drivers to come and take a break with me. If you're ever in my neck of the woods, stop by for some smokes and a six-pack. Y'all come back now!

Excitement Level: **
Importance Level: *

Poll Results

2008-05-12T17:52:00.002-04:00

Thanks to everyone who voted in my poll. It was a tie between the giant sombrero at South of the Border and the chicken-head muffler man in LA. See below for the entry about South of the Border. The chicken-head muffler man to come sooooon!

Giant Peachoid, Gaffney, SC

2008-05-11T18:21:00.007-04:00

This huge, honking peach is quite the neck-jerker for those flying down interstate 85. Holding one million gallons of water, this 65 foot peach of a water tower was erected in 1981 and put to rest which state is actually the largest producer of peaches. Contrary to popular belief, it is not Georgia.

Excitement Level: ****
Importance Level: *****

Inflatable Imposter Twistee-Treat, Carthage, NC

2008-05-11T12:10:00.003-04:00

Check out this gigantic take on the vintage Twistee-Treat that have become road-trip pop culture. This giant soft-serve, is literally soft on the top, because it is inflatable. Yum!

Excitement Level: ***
Importance Level: *

World's Largest Goddard-Townsend Block Front Chest, High Point, NC

2008-05-10T23:05:00.002-04:00

High Point, NC is a mecca of furniture-makers and has been since the turn of the 20st century. This building was erected in 1926 by the High Point Chamber of Commerce to celebrate the town's money making commodity. The twenty foot tall building served as the local "bureau of information" until 1996, when the building was completely renovated and converted into a 38-foot tall Goddard-Townsend block front chest. It is now up for rent. You can imagine what I was thinking... maybe moving to North Carolina would be worth it, just to live in this huge landmark.

Recently, another dresser was erected in High Point. (see previous entry) To be unique, each dresser monument announces they are the biggest of their type.

Excitement Level: *****
Importance Level: *****

World's Largest Highboy Chest, High Point, NC

2008-05-10T22:56:00.002-04:00

This Highboy chest is 85' high and 40' wide and has been built in front of the Furnitureland South Mart. The material is Dryvit Outsulation, also know as styrofoam.

Excitement Level: *****
Importance Level: *****

World's Largest Duncan Phyfe Chair, Thomasville, NC

2008-05-10T21:59:00.002-04:00

A few miles from the giant dressers, is a giant Duncan Phyfe Chair in Thomasville. Obviously, in another furniture-making town, this chair was built in 1948 and is eighteen feet of steel and concrete, placed on a twelve-foot pedestal.

Excitement Level: ****
Importance Level: ****