The mid-west of America continued to surprise us with strange roadside attractions as we crossed into the state of Wisconsin, home of 5.6 million residents, and almost as many strange sights and attractions.

So come along for the Jurnii as we head across state and off-road to discover the best this amazing state has to offer.

1. World’s Largest Badger: Birnamwood, Wisconsin

Once a 40-foot giant, the world’s largest badger is now a mere statue in the ground that is still doing its best to claim this title.

The unsettling stare of the badger still captures the attention of those passing by, causing them to stop and take a happy snap with this once so prominent local figure. Now standing at just the right height for a well-framed photograph, the Birnamwood Badger is a must while in this neck of the woods.

2. National Dairy Shrine: Ft Atkinson, Wisconsin

If there is something Wisconsin does well, its cows! So, it makes sense that somewhere, hidden in a small town, a dairy shrine would make an appearance.

Fort Atkinson’s dairy shrine is not like your typical shrine: there tends to be more of a focus on the state’s dairy history and key figures, rather than the majesty of these highly useful creatures. Instead of paying tribute to the makers of some of the best foods out there (cheese, yoghurt and ice-cream) the museum tends to glorify the people and machinery that are behind it all. Still worth a visit though as it’s sure to moo-ve you.

3. World’s Largest Fiberglass Fish/ National Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame: Hayward, Wisconsin

Fishing lovers flock to this small town, all in search of the world’s largest fish. While they won’t actually be able to catch this fish from the water, they will be able to pose next to its massive structure, made entirely from fiberglass.

Fishing enthusiasts will love the collection of world record collectables including over 300 boat motors and a sizeable array of world-record fish, mounted proudly on the walls of the hall.

4.  Fred Smith’s Concrete Park: Phillips, Wisconsin

Comprised of a jumbled crowd of some 200 concrete figurines, Fred Smith’s masterpiece has managed to live on through the hardest of times.

Beer bottles have been used in excess to construct the garden, while the contents were almost definitely consumed during the process. The result is a clogged landscape that is so weird and wonderful, it’s wacky.

5.  Museum of Historic Torture Devices: Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin

Those interested in an entire museum dedicated to the torture of human beings would have to be pretty wacky to begin with, but a visit to the Museum of Historic Torture Devices in Wisconsin Dells is sure to send you over the edge.

Find out exactly how rats can gnaw out the intestines of a human and the method of crushing a human skull, or experience what it is like to be electrocuted in the fake electric chair that is “suitable for all ages”.

6.  Funeral Home with Perky Animal Dioramas

Sam Sanfillippo pretty much has “wacky” down to a tee, demonstrating his love for his cute and cuddly friends by stuffing them.

While some may see the displays a creepy and slightly disturbing, if you actually take the time to have a decent look you will find a cleverly crafted set-up that has a rather amusing side to it.

This is one you will not want to miss.

7. Ghost Outpost: Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin

While many haunted houses tend to be on the corny and cheesy side, the Ghost Outpost in Wisconsin Dells tries to move past this and create an experience that will truly terrify its visitors; emphasis on the “tries”.

While this particular house is a lot more realistic than many of its predecessors, it still offers the tackiness that one should expect from an attraction of this kind. The thrills begin from the moment you enter the building, the screams and shrieks included in the admission price.

- Chrissy

Visited Wisconsin lately and come across any other strange attractions? Let us know about them in the comments below.

America The Strange, Attractions, Fun, Miscellaneous, trave, travel usa america