New York State is a treasure trove of quirky, offbeat roadside attractions that make any road trip memorable. Here are ten of the strangest—and most delightful—stops worth taking a break for as you travel through the Empire State:
1. Painted Pig Rock (Adirondacks)
A roadside rock in Speculator, painted to resemble a pig’s face, has become a beloved local landmark. Enhanced by residents in the 1950s and saved from destruction by protestors, it’s a must-see for fans of roadside whimsy.
2. Nipper Dog (Albany)
At 28 feet tall, this steel and fiberglass canine sits atop a warehouse, immortalizing the real-life dog who became the face of RCA and other audio recording companies. Nipper is a quirky Albany icon and a photo op you can’t miss.
3. Giant Garden Gnome (Kerhonkson, Catskills)
Standing over 13 feet tall, “Gnome Chomsky” was once the world’s largest concrete gnome. Now settled at Kelder’s Farm, this jolly figure is a quirky roadside highlight in the Catskills.
4. World’s Smallest Church (Oneida, Central NY)
The Cross Island Chapel is just 28 square feet and sits on a tiny man-made island, accessible only by rowboat. It’s been called the world’s smallest church and has even hosted weddings for couples seeking something truly unique.
5. “Scary Lucy” Statue (Celoron, Chautauqua-Allegheny)
The infamous “Scary Lucy” statue, depicting Lucille Ball with a rather unsettling expression, became a viral sensation. Though replaced by a friendlier version, the original still stands in Lucille Ball Memorial Park, drawing fans of the bizarre.
6. World’s Largest Pancake Griddle (Penn Yan, Finger Lakes)
Created for a buckwheat festival in 1987, this enormous griddle hangs on the side of the Birkett Mills building and commemorates a record-breaking pancake event. It’s a fun, floury slice of local history1.
7. Shark Girl (Buffalo, Greater Niagara)
This whimsical half-girl, half-shark fiberglass statue has become a beloved selfie spot at Buffalo’s Canalside. Created by artist Casey Riordan Millard, Shark Girl is a symbol of the city’s creative spirit.
8. Balanced Rock (North Salem, Hudson Valley)
A 60-ton granite boulder mysteriously perched atop smaller stones, Balanced Rock has puzzled visitors and geologists alike. Some believe it was left by glaciers, others think it’s an ancient ceremonial site.
9. The Jell-O Gallery Museum (Le Roy)
Dedicated to the history of America’s favorite wobbly dessert, this museum features vintage ads, Jell-O art, and interactive exhibits. It’s one of the state’s most oddball museums and a delight for fans of kitsch.
10. World’s Largest Kaleidoscope (Mount Tremper)
Step inside this converted grain silo to experience the world’s largest kaleidoscope, a psychedelic visual treat for all ages. It’s a dazzling and unexpected stop in the Catskills.
These attractions, ranging from giant gnomes to mysterious rocks and tiny chapels, showcase New York’s playful, eccentric side. Make sure to snap a photo—these are the stops you’ll be talking about long after your road trip ends.
Sources
[1] https://www.iloveny.com/blog/post/unique-roadside-attractions-in-new-york-state/
[2] https://daytrippingroc.com/quirky-rochester-area-roadside-attractions/
[3] https://lite987.com/what-this-is-the-most-oddball-roadside-attraction-in-new-york/
[4] https://cnynews.com/new-york-roadside-oddities/
[5] https://bigfrog104.com/13-weird-roadside-attractions-you-can-visit-in-new-york/