Philadelphia, PA—This list of Pennsylvania's strangest roadside attractions includes Windber's Trolley Graveyard, Mister Ed's Elephant Museum & Candy Emporium, Bilger's Rocks, and Decker's Chapel. While visiting these places, remember to take a moment to take in the unique scenery of this state! Read on to discover more.
5 Weird PA Roadside Attractions You Must See to Believe
Pennsylvania is packed with history, but beyond the Liberty Bell and Gettysburg, there's a wonderfully weird side to the Keystone State. Dotted along its highways and backroads are quirky, strange, and fascinating stops that make any road trip unforgettable.
Forget the usual tourist traps. If you're looking for a unique adventure, add these five essential Pennsylvania roadside attractions to your itinerary.
1. Windber Trolley Graveyard: An Urban Explorer's Dream
For anyone fascinated by urban decay and "ruin photography," the Windber Trolley Graveyard is a legendary stop. Tucked away on a rural track, this isn't a museum but a working scrapyard where dozens of vintage trolley and subway cars have been left to rust.
It's a hauntingly beautiful scene, with the colorful, decaying hulks creating a post-apocalyptic landscape. Be aware that this is private property and a working business, so always be respectful if you plan to visit and photograph this unique location.
Location: Windber, PA, 15963
2. Mister Ed's Elephant Museum & Candy Emporium
A true gem of quirky Americana, Mister Ed's Elephant Museum & Candy Emporium is a must-visit. What began as a personal collection has grown into a "museum" showcasing over 10,000 elephant-themed items, from tiny figurines to vintage circus toys and political memorabilia.
The best parts?
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The museum is free to enter.
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The "Candy Emporium" is a massive, old-school candy store with homemade fudge, retro sweets, and nuts.
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The whimsical grounds are filled with elephant statues, a fish pond, and even an elephant-shaped garden shed.
Location: 6019 Chambersburg Rd, Orrtanna, PA 17353
3. Bilger's Rocks: A Natural Maze of 300-Million-Year-Old Boulders
Move over, man-made attractions—this one is all-natural. Bilger's Rocks is a stunning 20-acre park featuring a massive formation of 300-million-year-old sandstone boulders.
These giants create a natural maze of "rooms," narrow passageways, and small caves that are a blast for families and hikers to explore. On a hot day, the temperature is noticeably cooler as you walk between the giant rocks. The park is well-maintained with trails, restrooms, and picnic tables, making it the perfect spot for an afternoon adventure.
Location: 1921 Bilgers Rocks Rd, Grampian, PA 16838
4. Decker's Chapel: The "Smallest Church in America"
Blink and you might miss it. Measuring a tiny 12 by 18 feet, Decker's Chapel is famously one of the smallest churches in America.
This beautiful stone chapel was built in 1856 by Michael Decker as an act of faith after he recovered from a serious injury. Today, it stands as a peaceful and incredibly picturesque stop. You can park, peek inside the well-preserved interior, and appreciate this tiny, quiet monument of devotion.
Location: Million Dollar Hwy, St Marys, PA 15857
5. The Haines Shoe House: A Fairytale Home You Can Tour
It's exactly what it sounds like: a house shaped like a giant work boot. The Haines Shoe House is one of Pennsylvania's most iconic and beloved roadside attractions, located just off the Lincoln Highway.
Built in 1949 by shoe salesman Mahlon Haines as a massive, bizarre advertisement, the 25-foot-high boot is now open for public tours. You can explore the surprisingly spacious interior, learn its quirky history, and grab some local ice cream. Don't miss the matching shoe-shaped doghouse out back!
Location: 197 Shoe House Rd, York, PA 17406
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