8 Strangest Landmarks in North Dakota

North Dakota, known as the "Peace Garden State," is a treasure trove of unique and offbeat landmarks that make it a standout destination in the Midwest. From intriguing historical sites to peculiar roadside attractions, this state offers a mix of charm and curiosity that leaves visitors with stories to tell. Whether it’s a giant fiberglass cow, an abandoned Cold War-era pyramid, or whimsical sculptures dotting a highway, North Dakota’s quirks beckon travelers to explore. For those seeking something beyond the usual tourist trail, these strange and fascinating landmarks promise an unforgettable journey through the unexpected.

Pyramid of North Dakota

A giant concrete pyramid that may appeal to outsiders is situated in Nekoma within the Great Plains. This odd structure that cost approximately six billion dollars to create is a missile defense system that was once used by the U.S. Army to defend against Soviet enemies during the Cold War in the 1970s. Recognized formally as the Stanley R. Mickelsen Safeguard Complex, the landmark is known for being a tourism marvel due to its missile silo photography and warhead knowledge, but it is mainly a historical and architectural stop that may surprise newcomers in the area.

What makes this pyramid so bizarre is that it was suddenly evacuated and decommissioned after about six months of use. The military then sold it to Hutterite communities in North Dakota, which was then sold again to a data center developer. It is even more unclear if anyone has physically worked inside the building or made changes since then. While visitors cannot go anywhere near the facility, it remains a strange sight to everyone who treks or drives by.

Salem Sue

Towering over the rolling farmland of New Salem, Salem Sue is a massive fiberglass sculpture celebrated as the "World's Largest Holstein Cow." Commissioned in the 1970s for $40,000 and designed by artist Dave Oswald, this 12,000-pound marvel is a proud symbol of the region's deep connection to dairy farming. New Salem, a community with a longstanding history of Holstein cow production, created the sculpture as a tribute to its agricultural heritage and a statement of pride. Visible from miles away, Salem Sue attracts visitors with its commanding presence and picturesque backdrop of North Dakota’s bucolic farmland. The statue invites travelers to stop, admire its scale, and snap a photo while enjoying the peaceful rural charm of the area.

Tommy the Turtle

Tommy the Turtle is a 30-foot-tall roadside attraction in Bottineau that always raises eyebrows. The landmark, located on a cluster of tree-lined streets and stores near a railroad track, has cultural vibrance and unordinary artistic design. This fiberglass structure, which was built in 1978 by an Idaho local, remains featureless and minimalistic to the human eye but has some rather odd features to it when viewed up close, such as nostrils shaped as inverted quotation marks and black slit mouth features. It was once reportedly a "Gateway to the Turtle Mountains," but the area was reduced to nothing during a historic ice age moment. To most visitors, Tommy the Turtle is simply an alien riding the "Largest Snowmobile in the World," a unique sight to see on a North Dakota vacation.

"Fargo" Woodchipper

In Fargo, an iconic woodchipper turned tourist attraction draws crowds with its connection to the cult classic film Fargo. Featured prominently in the 1996 movie, this prop unexpectedly gained fame for its darkly comedic role, transforming it into an unlikely yet beloved symbol of the city. Visitors flock to see this quirky piece of cinema history, taking photos and immersing themselves in the movie's legacy. Adding to the fun, fans can don a replica of the cowboy hat worn in the film, creating memorable photo opportunities. Whether you’re a film buff or just passing through, the "Fargo" Woodchipper offers a unique and entertaining stop, celebrating both Hollywood and local charm.

Enchanted Highway

The Enchanted Highway, located off Interstate 94 near Regent, reels in drivers with its metal animal sculptures. The highway, conceived in 1989, has dozens of wildlife miniatures displayed in various behavioral poses and shapes. Those nearby will be able to check out multiple scrap metal artworks, such as geese, deer, grasshoppers, and even Theodore Roosevelt on a horse! As a landmark that is hard to miss, most visitors around will have no problem seeing a bunch of random but unique farmland inspirations. While it continues to attract many tourists, it is truly a strange sight for any newfound explorer, especially the "Fisherman's Dream" sculpture or those oddly-looking farmer statues.

World's Largest Buffalo

This towering 26-foot-tall structure is an iconic draw for locals and tourists alike. Found in Jamestown, the "World's Largest Buffalo" is a striking tribute to the American Bison, an enduring symbol of the Great Plains. Created in the 1950s, the sculpture weighs an impressive 60 short tons, adding to its awe-inspiring presence. Visible from Interstate 94, the statue has become a popular roadside attraction, rivaling other highway landmarks in fame.

Known today as "Dakota Thunder," the monument is constructed from wire mesh, steel beams, and gunite, combining to form a rugged yet artistic depiction of the mighty bison. Located within Frontier Village, the site offers a charming backdrop for photos while celebrating the natural beauty and history of the Midwest. It’s more than just a sculpture; it’s a testament to the region’s connection to its wildlife heritage, ensuring travelers won’t leave without a story to share.

Chateau de Mores

Just southwest of Medora lies the Chateau de Mores State Historic Site, a landmark that is not only a stagecoach estate but also has some bizarre history behind it. Built in 1883, the estate was formerly used for cattle activities and beef shipping arrangements. However, due to terrible winter conditions, the owner was unable to complete his work, leading to a failure in his operations and goals of creating a lovely cattle-herding landscape.

The landmark itself is part of 18th-century French and Sardinian ancestry and is touted as a famous zone for many outsiders who want to learn more about rural and agricultural packing plants. Visitors from all over visit to take the guided tours, which showcase reproduced carpets, exhibit galleries, and authentic furniture from the 19th century.

Gol Stave Church Replica

The Gol Stave Church Museum in Minot is a stunning replica of a 12th-century structure originally located in Oslo, Norway, and an unmissable highlight of the Scandinavian Heritage Park. This intricately designed landmark showcases the unique architectural style of a traditional Norwegian "stabbur" or storehouse, complete with elaborate carvings and steep, shingled roofs. It serves as a testament to the rich Scandinavian influence that has shaped North Dakota’s culture.

Beyond its striking exterior, the museum's meticulously detailed interior offers a peek into medieval Christian worship practices. Visitors can admire wooden altars, intricate carvings, and medieval-style artifacts that transport them back in time. Surrounded by additional Nordic-inspired attractions like a Finnish sauna, Danish windmills, and Swedish dala horses, the Gol Stave Church Museum provides a comprehensive celebration of Scandinavian heritage.

Conclusion

North Dakota's strange and fascinating landmarks offer a delightful mix of history, creativity, and quirkiness, making the state a truly unique destination. From the massive Salem Sue and the exquisite Gol Stave Church Museum to the eerie Pyramid of North Dakota and the cinematic Fargo Woodchipper, these attractions highlight the state’s ability to surprise and entertain. Each stop tells its own story, blending culture, humor, and curiosity in ways that will leave a lasting impression. Whether you’re drawn to historical oddities or whimsical roadside sculptures, North Dakota promises a journey filled with unexpected discoveries and unforgettable moments.