What was Wall Drug’s famous first draw to get people in the doors? Ice water. Back in 1931. If you’re anywhere near this South Dakota attraction, you’re going to be seeing all kinds of marketing begging you to visit. So what is it? It’s a mall.
Yep, it’s a mall. It started out as a single drugstore but now boasts plenty of different places to shop. It takes in ten million dollars a year, just thanks to sales – there are a couple of other attractions such as the snake pit (yep) and giant roadside sculptures (must be a Dakota thing) that are free for all.
Enchanted? More Like...uh...Boring
The Enchanted Highway, in North Dakota, is thirty-two miles of road lined with giant scrap metal structures. There are towering birds, immense grasshoppers, entire schools of fish, humans that stretch toward the sky, and even a giant metal eye.
If you're driving through North Dakota, your passengers might appreciate something new to look at – because Lord knows North Dakota isn't the most exciting state – but don't mark this spot as something to drive out of your way for. It's pretty telling about North Dakota that this, literally just stuff along the highway, is one of their most famous attractions.
Do You Have Your Tickets? You'd Better
The J. M. Davis Arms and Historical Museum is just that – no advertising tricks here. It's a huge gun museum that includes over fifty thousand artifacts. It also has plenty of historical facts and information. Mostly about or involving guns.
Mr. Davis really liked guns. If you're an aficionado, you might be able to get some kick out of all the items to look at, one of which dates back to the fourteenth century. But if you're firearm-averse, there are plenty of other things to do in Oklahoma. Yeah, we were kind of surprised too.
The Other End of Elvis
You've heard about the famous mansion, Graceland, but now marvel at the humble home of one Elvis Aaron Presley, in Tupelo, Mississippi. Visit and you'll be treated to a museum site that features wonders: a two-room cottage where Elvis was born in 1935 – and was built by his father – a chapel, and an Assembly of God Church where Elvis and his family worshiped.
Elvis wasn't even all that old before the family had to move out. Nothing wrong with being a big Elvis fan and making a stop. Just don't expect too much.
Everything's Bigger in Texas, Including the Disappointments
The Big Texan restaurant in Amarillo, Texas is sure to grab your attention. It's covered in Texan fineries, like flags, steers, bright colors, and advertisements. Taxidermy covers the walls, and the Wild West is alive and well both in the restaurant and the gift shop.
Prices are high, crowds are dense, and the food is mediocre. Their famous steaks have been described as “tough and dry.” Texas is huge, and while it may seem like you're in the middle of nowhere most of the time, there are lots of other attractions that are more worth your time.