Washington State is known for its stunning mountains and world-famous coffee, but venture beyond the usual stops and you’ll find something even more unexpected.
Scattered along its highways are some of the quirkiest, most delightful roadside attractions in the country.
1. Fremont Troll Under The Bridge
Lurking beneath Seattle’s Aurora Bridge, a massive stone giant clutches an actual Volkswagen Beetle in its hand. Created in 1990 by four local artists, this 18-foot concrete sculpture has become a beloved city character. Visitors climb all over the troll for photos, often sitting in his massive hand or posing by his hubcap eye.
2. World’s Largest Egg In Winlock
Rising 12 feet tall on a central pedestal, this massive concrete egg celebrates Winlock’s former status as the “Egg Capital of the World.” Originally built from canvas and papier-mâché in 1923, the current version dates to 1991.
Local egg production has declined, but town pride remains strong. The annual Egg Day Festival in June features parades and egg-related competitions that draw visitors from across the region.
3. Nutty Narrows Bridge For Squirrels
Squirrels in Longview cross the road in style on their very own suspension bridge! Built in 1963 by a local builder worried about squirrels being hit by cars, this tiny marvel spans 60 feet above the street.
The original bridge was replaced in 2011 with an aluminum version. Four additional squirrel bridges have since been added around town, creating what locals proudly call their “squirrel highway system.”
4. Teapot Dome Service Station
Shaped like an actual teapot complete with handle, spout, and dome lid, this 1922 gas station was built as a cheeky protest against the Teapot Dome political scandal that rocked the Harding administration.
No longer pumping gas, the 15-foot-tall teapot has been lovingly restored and relocated to Zillah’s downtown area. Its whimsical design makes it one of America’s most photographed former service stations.
5. Stonehenge Memorial At Maryhill
Perched dramatically on a bluff overlooking the Columbia River stands a full-sized replica of England’s Stonehenge. Unlike its mysterious counterpart, this concrete version was built in 1929 by Sam Hill as America’s first World War I memorial.
Hill mistakenly believed Stonehenge was used for sacrificial purposes and created this monument to remind visitors that war demands the sacrifice of young lives. The stunning location offers breathtaking panoramic views of the gorge.
6. Gravity Hill Near Prosser
Optical illusion or supernatural phenomenon? At this mysterious spot, cars in neutral appear to roll uphill against gravity. Located on a remote country road, visitors place objects on the pavement to witness the strange effect.
Local legends claim it’s caused by spirits of Native American children drawing objects toward their playground. Scientists explain it as a visual illusion where the surrounding landscape creates a false horizon, tricking your perception.
7. Bicycle Tree On Vashon Island
In 1954, a young boy left his bicycle against a tree and never returned. Decades later, the tree grew around the bike, lifting it several feet off the ground where it remains embedded in the trunk.
Now a haunting piece of living art, this mysterious time capsule sparks imagination about the boy’s fate. Hidden down a forest path, finding this rusty relic feels like discovering a secret that the island has kept for generations.
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