Colorado might not be the first place you think of when it comes to quirkiness, but the Centennial State is surprisingly odd in places. So, if you’re looking for a vacation destination that offers you something a little offbeat, it is undoubtedly one of the first places you should be looking at.
Not convinced? Check out these quirky Colorado attractions:
The UFO Watchtower
If you believe the truth really is out there, then, when you’re next on vacation in Colorado, head down Highway 17 – which is nicknamed the Cosmic Highway by locals- in the direction of the Sand Dunes National Park, and you’ll come across a colossal 10-foot viewing platform connected to a museum. Is it for viewing the stars? No, it’s a bona fide UFO watchtower where not only can you watch the skies for signs of alien life yourself, but you can also read prior accounts of UFO sightings that have been logged within the museum.
The Antique Washing Machine Museum
A little out of Fort Collins there is one of the most unusual museums you will find. Why is it unusual? Because it is dedicated to antique washing machines! You wouldn’t think that this domestic appliance would be interesting enough to have a whole museum dedicated to it, but the residents of Colorado obviously disagree, and actually, if you’re a fan of design, it’s pretty interesting to see the evolution of not only washing machines, but vacuums, fridges and other common household appliances too. The washing machines are obviously the stars of the show, though!
Bishop Castle
Bishop Castle, just south of Pueblo, is notable because it was the vision of one man, Jim Bishop, who took on the task of lovingly building it single-handedly. A work in progress for over four decades, it is filled with delightful grand ballrooms, a dragon sculpture that actually breathes fire, and so much more that you will discover yourself! It is truly off the map, but it is totally worth the visit.
The Museum of the Mountain West
Another Museum, this time in Montrose, where you should totally stay at the Super 8 Montrose by the way, is home to more than half a million different artifacts dating between 1880 and 1930. You can see everything from old railroad memorabilia, to an old-style saloon, and if you rock up on one of the museum’s tributes to Western movies, you can get dressed up, make candles, try your hand at blacksmithing, and a whole host of other fun-filled activities from times gone by.
Junkrassic Park
It might not be as exciting as a trip to Jurassic Park, which unfortunately isn’t real, but Junkrassic Park, which is in the La Junta area, is a truly quirky attraction. It is home to around 80 sculptures, all crafted out of old farm equipment. Celebrities, animals, and a spoof of the Eiffel Tower coined the “Awful Tier” make for a pretty hilarious experience that you won’t want to miss out on if you’re in the area.
Time to get your quirk on in Colorado?
Every state has something crazy to see. I have been to 48 of them.
That’s awesome! I hope to add some more to my list this year!
I only need Alaska and Hawaii. I hope that you have more fun.
Ah I love this!
I love this! I live in Colorado and you’ve given me some new places to visit. I love quirky. Thank you!
Thanks for the compliment! I can’t wait to visit Colorado again 🙂
The San Luis valley is an incredible place….
Good day