From fanatical collections to downright strange, but weirdly fascinating shrines, these unusual museums (which you’ll only find in the U-S-of-A) demand a road trip.
Seashore Trolley Museum, Kennebunkport, Maine
The Seashore Trolley Museum is the final resting place of transit vehicles from yesteryear. The folks in Kennebunkport, Maine lay claim to having the largest and oldest collection of mass transit vehicles in the country, so if you happen to be in the area why not check it out and see if it’s true.
Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum, Gatlinburg, Tennessee
What started off as a geeky collection has, more than 25 years later, morphed into a mammoth collection of this simple, if a little underrated everyday item. With examples dating all the way back to 1500, this gigantic whacky collection at the Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum needs to be seen in person to truly be believed.
National Yo-Yo Museum, Chico, California
Yes, apparently yo-yos are still a thing, and not just a forgotten relic of your childhood. Don’t believe us? Then you’d better head to the National Yo-Yo Museum in Chico, Calif. Here you’ll find tons of yo-yo memorabilia, and in October you can catch the annual National Yo-Yo Contest hosted on site.
Museum of Bad Art, Somerville, Massachusetts
Ever wondered where all the awful art goes? Apart from in the bin, the worst offenders could end up gracing the walls of this infamous Massachusetts locale. With a few galleries – one situated in the basement of the Somerville Theater – the Museum of Bad Art houses everything from distorted faces to bizarre compositions. Only the truly awful get to shine here.
Idaho Potato Museum, Blackfoot, Idaho
Probably the only place on earth to have a potato hall of fame (we can’t work that one out either), this Idaho museum is worth a trip purely based on its novelty factor. We’re convinced the Idaho Potato Museum will leave you looking at spuds in a whole new light…
Featured image: © rayb777/Flickr
Written by insider city guide series Hg2 | A Hedonist’s guide to… whose guides cover all the best hotels, restaurants, bars, clubs, sights, shops and spas.
