7 Strangest Landmarks in Illinois

Illinois is known for its rich history, awe-inspiring natural features, and bustling cities like Chicago, but it is also home to some of the most unusual landmarks in the United States. From a true-to-life giant statue to a distinctively-disguised water tower, these sites offer intriguing glimpses into the weird and wonderful side of the state. Whether you are a lover of quirky roadside attractions or a seeker of the perfect photo op, these seven strange landmarks will not disappoint. Read on for a closer look at these fascinating and offbeat spots that make Illinois stand out.

Leaning Tower of Niles

Modeled after the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa in Italy, the Leaning Tower of Niles is an unexpected sight in suburban Chicago. Standing at 94 feet tall, this replica tilts at a noticeable angle, making it one of the most photographed landmarks in the area. Built in the 1930s as a water tower, the Leaning Tower of Niles serves as a tribute to the original. Travelers visiting the tower can also explore the surrounding grounds, which feature a small park and the nearby Niles Park District's facilities, including the beautiful butterfly garden at Oak Park.

World’s Largest Rocking Chair

Located in the town of Casey, the World’s Largest Rocking Chair is an eye-catching roadside attraction that draws visitors from across the country. At 56 feet tall and weighing 23 tons, this massive wooden chair is impossible to miss. It is part of a series of "world’s largest" items scattered throughout Casey, including the largest wind chime, golf tee, and truck key, that are all the brainchild of local resident Jim Bolin. Stop at the Casey Welcome Center at Central and Main Streets to get your bearings on all the giant attractions in town, then spend some time exploring the antique shops and local eateries in the historic downtown area.

Kaskaskia Dragon

https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/vandalia-illinois-usa-2015-kaskaskia-dragon-1639400644 (ONLY IMAGE)Kaskaskia Dragon, a 35-foot-long metal monster, and Americana tourist attraction. Editorial credit: EWY Media via Shutterstock

The Kaskaskia Dragon in Vandalia is an unusual and captivating roadside attraction. Roughly 35 feet in length and standing about 20 feet tall, this quirky metal sculpture sits at the entrance to a local RV park and breathes fire when you feed it a “dragon token” (available at local stores). Its colorful and mythical design makes it an ideal stop for visitors looking for a unique photo opportunity. Travelers should also explore nearby attractions like the Vandalia State House, a historic site where the Illinois legislature met in the 1830s, and the Fayette County Historical Museum, offering insight into the region’s past.

Fabyan Windmill

The Fabyan Windmill in Batavia is an authentic Dutch-style windmill built in the 1850s and later purchased by the locally-prominent Fabyan family. Originally used for grinding grain, the windmill stands as a testament to early American agricultural technology and the influence of German and Dutch settlers in Illinois. Today, it is open to the public, offering tours that provide a glimpse into its past and the Fabyan family's role in Batavia. Additional attractions in the area include the scenic Fabyan Forest Preserve, with its beautiful gardens and Japanese garden, and the Batavia Depot Museum, which highlights the town’s railroad history.

Robert Wadlow Statue

The Robert Wadlow Statue in Alton towers over visitors at nearly 9 feet tall, yet it is amazingly a life-size statue! It honors Robert Wadlow, the tallest man in recorded history, who stood at 8 feet, 11.1 inches. Born in 1918, Alton’s “Gentle Giant” became a global sensation due to his extraordinary height, which resulted from a rare condition. Though Wadlow died more than 80 years ago, at the age of just 22, the statue continues to draw visitors from around the world. Nearby, you can explore the Alton Museum of History and Art, the scenic Alton Riverfront Park, and the National Great Rivers Museum, enriching any trip to the area.

Pink Elephant

The Pink Elephant, located in Livingston and visible from Interstate 55, is a strange and colorful roadside attraction that has been turning heads for decades. The giant pink elephant sculpture serves as a perfect promotional tool for the Pink Elephant Antique Store, which also has an ice cream shop shaped like an ice cream cone, a 1950s-style diner, and numerous other unique attractions. Livingston is only about 30 miles away from Alton, making for a quirky landmark double feature, as well as roughly 40 miles from the sights and sounds of downtown St. Louis, Missouri.

Cloud Gate Sculpture

The 66-foot long, 110 ton Cloud Gate Sculpture, better known as "The Bean" because of its distinctive shape, has rapidly become one of Chicago's most iconic landmarks. Designed by artist Anish Kapoor and completed in 2006, this polished stainless steel sculpture reflects the city’s skyline, creating a captivating visual experience for visitors. Its unique shape invites people to interact with the artwork, offering stunning photo opportunities. Located in Millennium Park, the sculpture is part of a larger cultural space, which also features the Jay Pritzker Pavilion and the Crown Fountain. Nearby, travelers can explore the Art Institute of Chicago, Grant Park, and the Magnificent Mile, making it a must-visit area for tourists.

Conclusion

Illinois offers a wealth of unique landmarks for those looking to explore the quirky side of the state. From an authentic Dutch windmill to a giant reflective bean, each of these seven landmarks provides a fascinating experience for visitors. These offbeat attractions allow travelers to step away from typical tourist spots and discover the lesser-known and truly bizarre corners of the state. Whether you are passing through or planning a dedicated road trip, these landmarks promise to leave you with unforgettable memories of your time in Illinois.