Discover the quirky side of Phoenix with these offbeat attractions! From bizarre museums filled with oddities to vintage soda shops serving up nostalgia by the sip, this guide reveals the city’s hidden gems that promise a fun twist on your Arizona adventure.
Tovrea Castle at Carraro Heights
Nicknamed the “Wedding Cake Castle” for its unique design, Tovrea Castle has been drawing in visitors for nearly a century. Tour the iconic 5,000-square-foot structure surrounded by meticulously groomed cactus gardens and Sonoran Desert flora. Start with a tram ride through the garden trails, then head inside for a guided tour of this architectural gem. Admire the original collection of Art Deco fixtures, furniture, and other artifacts. Book early—tours fill up fast!
Elvis Memorial Chapel at Superstition Mountain
Dive into Hollywood history at the Elvis Memorial Chapel, a legendary prop from Elvis Presley’s 1969 Western Charro!—his only non-singing role. Since surviving two fires and being donated to the Superstition Mountain Museum, the quirky chapel is now a popular wedding location. Stop by to admire its nostalgic charm and pay homage to the King in this one-of-a-kind setting surrounded by epic mountain views.
The Big Tin Cotton Gin
Overlooking San Tan Valley, the Big Tin Cotton Gin is a 1930s relic that’s become an eclectic landmark for its massive size and industrial atmosphere. Though it no longer processes cotton, the 15,000-square-foot indoor/outdoor property has been transformed into a lively venue for craft fairs, festivals, and weddings. Wander through rustic spaces filled with old farm equipment, including a giant cotton picker.
The Phoenix Bat Cave
Feeling brave? Make your way to the Phoenix Bat Cave just before dusk. Every night between May and October, thousands of Mexican Free-Tailed bats emerge from a storm drain on the northern end of the Arizona Canal Trail. As many as 20,000 bats soar through the sky on the hunt for insects during this incredible phenomenon. Stand quietly, respect their space, and don’t be surprised if they fly right past you!
MacAlpine’s Diner & Soda Fountain
Travel back to the 1950s at MacAlpine’s, one of the few original soda fountains left in the country. Over the years, legends like Wayne Newton and Frank Lloyd Wright have famously enjoyed this slice of Phoenix history. Immerse yourself in classic diner decor, vintage jukebox tunes, and mid-century memorabilia. Order a burger and an ice cream soda, then browse the antique store attached to the diner to shop for retro treasures.
Rosson House Museum
The historic Rosson House is an 1895 Victorian mansion in Heritage Square that’s been carefully restored to reflect the lives of early Phoenix residents. Explore the ornate architecture and original furnishings on a one-hour guided tour. Step into decorated bedrooms, parlors, and even an old-fashioned doctor’s office to see what life was like in turn-of-the-century Phoenix. From baby dolls and china sets to historically accurate medical tools, no stone is left unturned.
Curious Nature
Curious Nature is Phoenix’s most unusual emporium, offering an ever-changing collection of all these strange and peculiar. Check out framed butterflies and jewelry made with encased scorpions. Browse occult items like antique Ouija boards and tarot cards. Discover animal specimens like alligator skulls and preserved sheep hearts. Whether you’re hunting for exotic plants, rare gemstones, or something spookier, this shop has every kind of oddity a collector could dream of.
Pollack Tempe Cinemas
Don’t be fooled by the unassuming exterior or strip mall location—this discount theater is home to a trove of old-school memorabilia and life-sized wax statues of icons like Batman, Darth Vader, and John Travolta. Between the vintage movie posters, arcade games, and retro snack bar, Pollack Tempe Cinemas is a true throwback to old Hollywood. Come watch the latest flicks at discounted rates, or embrace the nostalgic vibes with a showing of a cult classic.
