Jaunted

Largest Ball of Twine – Cawker City, Kansas

Channel your inner Clark W. Griswold as you make your way across the Midwest, and soon enough you’ll find your way to the world’s largest ball of twine. Surprisingly there’s multiple claims to this title—and even a Wikipedia page dedicated to it; however, we’ll suggest the one over in Cawker City, Kansas. Although, the one in Darwin, Minnesota sounds pretty snazzy as well. Stop by to see the twine in Kansas 24 hours a day, and you can even pick up a free weather forecast for the rest of your trip. If the twine is wet it’s raining, if it’s twine is hot it’s sunny—ha.

South of the Border – Dillon, South Carolina

If you’ve ever read the roadside weather report and it let you know that it would be “Chili today, hot tamale,” then you’ve made your way past South of the Border. Located between the two Carolinas on I-95 the place has been a mandatory pit stop for those heading south for the winter. Neon signs, fireworks, and plenty of kitsch greet visitors from far and wide, and of course there’s Pedro—the place’s stereotypical Mexican mascot. Swing through and grab a bumper sticker, and then promise yourself you’ll never return—until next time.

Paul Bunyan Statue – Portland, Oregon

Most road trip tourist traps don’t exactly register as a national historic place, but the Paul Bunyan statue over in Portland does. That’s not the only place where you can check him out, as he and Babe the Blue Ox are also on display over in Bemidji, Minnesota. Just don’t forget your flannel shirt, as you’ll want to look your best for your Instagram photo.

We realize we’re just scratching the surface here, so be sure to throw your tacky tourist suggestions into the comments below—we’ll take a spin past sooner than later.

[Photos: dlhdmb13, rvaphotodude, and Wikimedia]