Here are 11 of the weirdest roadside attractions in Louisiana that are definitely worth stopping for:
1. Bonnie and Clyde Gas Station – Gibsland
This rundown gas station marks the site where law enforcement confronted Bonnie and Clyde in 1934. A plaque commemorates the spot where the call announcing their deaths was made, giving it deep historical intrigue.
2. Chauvin Sculpture Garden – Chauvin
A colorful outdoor art gallery featuring eccentric sculptures made from found objects that create a surreal and whimsical experience for visitors.
3. Madonna Chapel: World’s Smallest Church – Plaquemine
This tiny chapel is beautifully crafted and holds the claim to be the world’s smallest church, making it an odd yet charming roadside sight.
4. Rayne Frog Festival – Rayne
Known as the Frog Capital of the World, Rayne hosts a quirky festival celebrating the amphibians with frog statues, parades, and fun frog-themed events.
5. Giant Dalmatian Sculpture – Shreveport
A 19-foot tall Dalmatian covered in glowing spots that flash and change colors, created as a symbol of the arts community and best seen at night.
6. 50-Foot Wooden Alligator “Saint” – LaPlace
Greeting visitors at the LaPlace Visitor Center, this massive wooden alligator is the mascot for an annual bonfire tradition guiding Papa Noel (Santa Claus).
7. Fisherman’s Castle – Irish Bayou, New Orleans
A mysterious medieval-style castle built on private land that has survived multiple hurricanes, with an unknown purpose or occupant but remarkable architecture.
8. Abita Mystery House – Abita Springs
A bizarre museum filled with strange artworks, quirky creatures, and odd antiques including a flying saucer and freakish sculptures, perfect for lovers of the strange and unexpected.
9. Museum of Death – New Orleans
Not your average roadside stop, this museum showcases graphic history and exhibits on serial killers, death rituals, and other macabre subjects for an unsettling but fascinating visit.
10. Bonnie and Clyde Ambush Museum – Gibsland
A small museum dedicated to the infamous criminal couple, featuring artifacts from the ambush, including Bonnie’s red hat and replica tombstones.
11. The Singing Oak – New Orleans City Park
An artistic oak tree adorned with painted wind chimes that create a melodic sound when the wind blows, blending natural beauty with local creativity.
These quirky and eerie roadside attractions showcase Louisiana’s rich history, unique culture, and love of the unusual.
Sources
(https://pelicanstateofmind.com/louisiana-love/10-roadside-attractions-louisiana/)
(https://wyldfm.iheart.com/content/2022-07-26-this-is-the-weirdest-roadside-attraction-in-louisiana/)
(https://in.hotels.com/go/usa/weird-quirky-things-to-do-louisiana)
(https://www.fiftygrande.com/50-weirdest-roadside-attractions/)
(https://www.atlasobscura.com/things-to-do/louisiana)
