Giant Statues & Quirky Stops: The Ultimate Minnesota Roadside Attractions
If you are planning a road trip through Minnesota, don’t forget to add some of the state’s giant statues and quirky stops to your itinerary! No matter which region you’re exploring, you’ll find plenty of fun Minnesota roadside attractions. Stretch your legs, take in the sights, and snap the perfect photo. Read on to discover some of the best pit stops across the North Star State!
1. World’s Largest Paul Bunyan (Akeley, MN)
No Minnesota roadside post is complete without the ultimate lumberjack legend. Many state stops honor Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox. However, Akeley’s Paul Bunyan Statue is extra special. Located in northwest Minnesota, this giant figure sits kneeling on the ground. He invites kids and adults to crawl right into his massive hand for a photo. The town dedicated the statue in 1985 during Paul Bunyan Days. It even includes a handy “Selfie Station” stand for easy pictures. Afterward, walk right behind the statue to visit the Paul Bunyan Historical Museum. It’s a must-see stop on any local road trip!
2. Paul Bunyan & Babe the Blue Ox (Bemidji, MN)
Want to see another iconic Paul Bunyan? Head over to Bemidji to see another version pf the famous lumberjack. Here, he stands 18 feet tall. Better yet, his trusted sidekick Babe the Blue Ox is right by his side. They have stood proud on the shores of Lake Bemidji since 1937. These giant folk-art statues are arguably the most iconic photo spot in the state.
3. World’s Largest Hockey Stick (Eveleth, MN)
Paul Bunyan may be a Minnesota icon, but everyone knows hockey is the state’s true love. For die-hard fans, no road trip is complete without a stop in Eveleth to see the World’s Largest Hockey Stick. Spanning an incredible 110 feet long and weighing in at 10,000 pounds (5 tons), this gigantic structure is paired with a massive 700 pound puck that looks ready for a slap shot! Once you’ve snapped your photo with this record-breaking landmark, head inside the nearby United States Hockey Hall of Fame Museum to dive deep into the history of Hockey.
4. Jolly Green Giant (Blue Earth, MN)
Looming 55 feet over the town of Blue Earth, this friendly green giant is visible right off Interstate 90. Built in 1978 to draw passing highway travelers into town, the statue pays tribute to the area’s pea and corn canning industry that started in 1926 under the name Minnesota Valley Canning Company. Dressed in his signature leaf smock, the Jolly Green Giant stands tall over the landscape reminding everyone to eat their veggies!
5. Moose Statue (Moose Lake, MN)
Moose Lake is known for its crystal-clear waters, agate hunting, and peaceful parks. The town also has another major claim to fame: a giant, beloved moose statue guarding the entrance to town. Located right outside the town’s Tourist Information Center, the Moose Lake moose statue stands roughly nine feet tall. Moose Lake is widely recognized as the Agate Capital of the World. After visiting the moose statue, head into the local parks or gravel spots to look for rocks. You can also plan a trip around the famous annual Moose Lake Agate Days, to hunt for the state’s official gemstone, the Lake Superior agate.
6. Otto the Otter (Fergus Falls, MN)
Tucked into Adams Park overlooking Reservoir Lake, there is a 40-foot-long and 15-foot-tall concrete otter statue. It was built by local high schoolers in 1972 to celebrate the town’s centennial. For the ultimate photo op, stand under Otto’s Chin or pose alongside his tail. He’s friendly, photogenic, and surrounded by a great walking path.
7. World’s Largest Walleye (Rush City, MN)
Continuing the legendary tales of Paul Bunyan, the World’s Largest Walleye stands proudly on display, said to be reeled right out of Rush Lake by the famous lumberjack himself. Crafted in 1982, this massive 40-foot, two-ton sculpture proudly greets travelers heading toward the North Shore, making it an absolute must visit photo op for anglers and road trippers alike!
8. Booming Prairie Chicken (Rosthay, MN)
Located in the “Prairie Chicken Capital of Minnesota,” Rothsay’s World’s Largest Booming Prairie Chicken is one of the state’s most unique roadside attractions. Built in 1976, this colossal sculpture stands 13 feet high, spans 18 feet long, and weighs a staggering 9,000 pounds. Captured mid-mating ritual with bright orange neck sacs fully inflated in its signature “booming” posture, this unforgettable landmark pays tribute to both local wildlife and Minnesota’s rich prairie history.
9. Lake Kabetogama Walleye (Kabetogama, MN)
Located at the gateway to Voyageurs National Park, the Lake Kabetogama Walleye Statue offers a fun twist on Minnesota’s giant fish sculptures. Leaping mid-air with a saddle fitted right onto its back, this 14-foot concrete walleye invites travelers of all ages to climb up. Originally designed in 1949 to welcome anglers and vacationing families to “Kab,”. Taking a picture atop this saddled fish remains an iconic rite of passage for any northern Minnesota road trip!
10. Paul Bunyan’s Chair (Grand Rapids, MN)
Tired of Paul Bunyan–themed roadside attractions yet? If not, head to downtown Grand Rapids to check out Paul Bunyan’s Chair. This oversized Adirondack chair really puts the giant lumberjack’s scale into perspective—and its massive red frame easily fits an entire family for a fun group photo. It’s a quick, charming pit stop where you can kick back, channel your inner Paul Bunyan, and grab a great memory before exploring the rest of town.
11. Big Vic Voyageur Statue (Ranier, MN)
Standing tall along Highway 11 in Ranier, Big Vic is a striking 25-foot statue built to honor local resort owner and logging figure Victor “Big Vic” Davis. Erected as a bold symbol of defiance against the federal government during the creation of Voyageurs National Park, this imposing voyageur figure remains one of the North Country’s most fascinating, lesser-known roadside attractions. Located just a short drive from International Falls and the Canadian border, it’s a quick pit stop that offers an authentic slice of local history.
Hit the Road!
Whether you’re embarking on an epic weekend trip or meandering through central Minnesota lake country, these quirky landmarks make breaking up long drives an adventure in itself. Grab your keys, gas up, and start snapping those selfies!
Are we missing a few of your favorites? Check back soon as we continue adding Minnesota’s best roadside stops! In the meantime, here are a few iconic landmarks that haven’t made the official Well Planned Adventure list yet, but are well worth a visit on your own: Big Ole the Viking in Alexandria, Pelican Pete in Pelican Rapids and Willie the Walleye in Baudette
