Washington State is full of weird and wonderful surprises just waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re strolling through Seattle or exploring the quieter corners of the state, you’ll stumble upon all kinds of quirky spots that’ll make you do a double-take. Think a massive troll hanging out under a bridge, a gum-covered alleyway that’s oddly charming, and even a tiny bridge made just for squirrels. From funky museums to offbeat roadside attractions, Washington has a way of keeping things interesting!
Kick off your adventure in Seattle with one of the city’s most beloved oddities—The Fremont Troll. Nestled under the Aurora Bridge, this massive concrete sculpture clutching a real Volkswagen Beetle has been a quirky landmark since 1990. Featured in films like 10 Things I Hate About You and the video game Life is Strange, the Troll is a must-see photo op and a testament to Seattle’s playful spirit.
While you’re in town, take a stroll down to The Gum Wall in Post Alley near Pike Place Market. This sticky, colorful art installation has been growing (literally) since the ’90s, with visitors from around the world adding their own chewed contributions. Stretching 50 feet long and towering 15 feet high, it’s one of the “germiest” tourist attractions—but that hasn’t stopped it from becoming a surprisingly romantic (and slightly gross) spot for couples.
If you’re craving even more quirky sights, Ye Olde Curiosity Shop on Pier 54 is packed with bizarre treasures like shrunken heads, mummies, and odd trinkets from around the globe. Founded in 1899 and still owned by the same family, this curiosity-filled shop has drawn big names like Charlie Chaplin and Katharine Hepburn. Just down the road at Pike Place Market, you’ll find another hidden gem—The Giant Shoe Museum. Tucked away inside the market, this quirky attraction features a collection of oversized footwear, including a jaw-dropping size 37 brogue worn by Robert Wadlow, the world’s tallest man. Drop a quarter into the vintage coin machine, peek through the viewing slot, and prepare to be wowed.
For those with a love of pop culture, the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) is an absolute must. Located next to the Space Needle, this futuristic, Frank Gehry-designed building houses fascinating exhibits on everything from sci-fi and horror films to video games and music legends. Be sure to check out IF VI WAS IX, a massive sculpture made from over 500 guitars, and get hands-on with interactive displays celebrating fantasy and rock ‘n’ roll history. But if you’re looking to dig deeper—literally—take the Seattle Underground Tour. This 75-minute guided walking tour takes you beneath Seattle’s streets to explore hidden passageways and storefronts left behind after the Great Fire of 1889. With a perfect mix of history and humor, it’s a fascinating (and slightly eerie) way to experience the city’s past.
Washington’s weirdness isn’t just confined to Seattle. Over in Longview, you’ll find the Nutty Narrows Bridge, a tiny suspension bridge built just for squirrels. Installed in 1963 to help these furry critters cross a busy road safely, the bridge has since become a local landmark and even landed on the National Register of Historic Places. Speaking of quirky landmarks, in the charming Bavarian-style town of Leavenworth, you’ll discover the whimsical Nutcracker Museum. Home to over 7,000 nutcrackers from around the world—ranging from classic wooden soldiers to pop culture icons like Mickey Mouse and even former U.S. presidents—this museum is both fun and fascinating for all ages.
For those looking for something truly unexpected, the Stonehenge Memorial in Maryhill offers a unique twist on a historic icon. This full-scale concrete replica of England’s famed Stonehenge was built between 1918 and 1929 as a World War I memorial, and it provides stunning views of the Columbia River Gorge. It’s an eerily accurate nod to the ancient structure, and the panoramic scenery alone is worth the visit. Finally, history buffs will want to pay a visit to Roslyn’s Old-Time Cemetery. Spanning 15 acres, this historic burial ground tells the story of Roslyn’s coal-mining roots, with over 5,000 graves reflecting the town’s diverse immigrant population. As you wander through the cemetery’s 26 sections, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the generations of people who called this small town home.
