Nostalgia Magazine takes on 'Road Trip America: Offbeat Attractions & Quirky Must-See Stops' to close out the summer

As summer comes to a close, there’s still time for one more road trip! Gather the family, pack your bags, and hit the road for a little slice of Americana. To help you select a dream destination, Reminisce—North America’s top-selling nostalgia magazine—explores some of America’s most unique off-road attractions.

Check out some fun facts on America’s local treasures here:

The Blue Whale of Route 66 (Catoosa, Oklahoma): Lifelong Catoosa resident Hugh Davis built this aquatic oddity in 1972 as an anniversary gift to his wife, Zelta. Before the 80-foot-long structure even got its first coast of paint, curious travelers began stopping to take a swim.

Graceland (Memphis, Tennessee): Walk in the footsteps of rock ‘n’ roll royalty on a guided tour of the King’s 14-acre estate, which includes a final stop in the Meditation Garden where Elvis is buried.

Antique Shell Station (Winston-Salem, North Carolina): In the 1930s, the Quality Oil Co. built eight clamshell-shaped stations. This is the only one still standing, now protected as a state landmark. Come with a full tank – the pumps are now dry – and don’t forget your camera!

Paul Bunyon & Babe the Blue Ox (Bemidji, Minnesota): The duo attracts thousands of visitors a year to the city that calls itself the real birthplace of Paul Bunyon. The 18-foot-tall, 2.5-ton lumberjack and his 5-ton companion were both constructed in 1937.

The Shady Dell (Bisbee, Arizona): Nine vintage aluminum trailers transport guests back to the 1950s at this RV resort. The interiors have been furnished in high midcentury modern style, from leopard carpets and breakfast booths to a hand-carved tiki bar.

Weeki Wachee Springs (Spring Hill, Florida): Mermaids have been putting on shows since 1947 in this crystalline natural spring, where the water’s a consistent 72 degrees.

The UFO Museum & Research Center (Roswell, New Mexico): In July 1947, a crash landing put Roswell on the map. UFO or no? The debate continues here, where the curious flock for answers. Do your own research at the museum, then buy an inflatable alien in the gift shop.

The World’s Largest Ball of Twine (Cawker City, Kansas): The world’s largest ball of sisal twine is more than 50 years old and still growing. Frank Stoeber got the ball rolling in 1953. Now the attraction weighs 9 tons, with close to 8 million feet of twine. Stop by to add more!

To check out even more wacky highway sideshows, check out the full article here: http://www.reminisce.com/1950s/road-trip-america-offbeat-attractions/.