The 10 Funniest Tourist Attractions in the World
Last Updated on January 23, 2024 by Daniel Williams
If you are looking for some laughs on your next vacation, you might want to check out these hilarious tourist attractions around the world. From a temple of rats to a pyramid tomb of a movie star, these places are sure to make you smile, chuckle, or even burst out laughing.
1. Island of the Dolls, Mexico
Located in the canals of Xochimilco, south of Mexico City, this island is home to hundreds of dolls hanging from trees, fences, and buildings. The dolls were collected by a man named Don Julian Santana, who believed they would appease the spirit of a girl who drowned in the canal. Some visitors claim that the dolls move their eyes or whisper to them. Whether you find this creepy or amusing, it is certainly a unique sight to behold.
2. Temple of Rats, India
In the town of Deshnok, near Bikaner, there is a temple dedicated to Karni Mata, a Hindu goddess of death. The temple is also inhabited by thousands of rats, which are considered sacred and worshipped by the devotees. Visitors are expected to walk barefoot on the marble floor, where the rats scurry around, nibbling on food offerings and drinking milk from bowls. If you are lucky enough to spot a white rat, it is believed to be a manifestation of the goddess herself.
3. Fremont Troll, USA
Under the Aurora Bridge in Seattle, there is a giant concrete troll that looks like it is about to grab a passing car. The troll was sculpted in 1990 by a group of artists, who won a competition to create a public art piece for the area. The troll has become a popular attraction for tourists and locals alike, who like to climb on it, take selfies with it, or dress it up in costumes. The troll also appeared in the movie “10 Things I Hate About You”.
4. BB Afternoon Tea Bus Tour, UK
If you want to enjoy a traditional British afternoon tea while sightseeing in London, you can hop on this double-decker bus that serves tea, cakes, sandwiches, and scones on board. The bus takes you around the city’s famous landmarks, such as Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and Tower Bridge, while you munch on your treats and sip your tea. You can also choose to add some champagne to your tea for a more festive experience.
5. MariCar, Japan
If you are a fan of Mario Kart, you will love this attraction in Tokyo, where you can dress up as your favorite character and drive a go-kart around the city. You can choose from a variety of costumes, such as Mario, Luigi, Peach, Yoshi, or even Pikachu, and blast your own music from a speaker. You will need an international driving license to join this activity, and you will have to follow the traffic rules, but you will have a blast racing with your friends or strangers.
6. Bau House Dog Cafe, South Korea
For dog lovers, this cafe in Seoul is a paradise. You can cuddle, play, and take photos with dozens of adorable dogs of different breeds and sizes, while enjoying a cup of coffee or a snack. The dogs are friendly, well-trained, and eager to interact with the customers. You can also bring your own dog to the cafe, or even adopt one of the dogs if you fall in love with them.
7. Nicolas Cage’s Tomb, USA
In the famous St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 in New Orleans, there is a white, 9-foot-tall pyramid that stands out among the other graves. This is the future tomb of Nicolas Cage, the actor known for his eccentric roles and behavior. Cage bought the plots in 2010 and built the pyramid, which has the Latin phrase “Omnia Ab Uno” (Everything from One) inscribed on it. The phrase was featured in his movie “National Treasure”. No one knows why Cage chose this design or location for his tomb, but there are many theories and rumors, such as hiding money from the IRS, counteracting a voodoo curse, or being connected to the Illuminati.
8. Carhenge, USA
If you can’t make it to Stonehenge in England, you can visit this replica made of cars in Nebraska. Carhenge consists of 38 vintage cars arranged in a circle, with some stacked on top of each other to mimic the original structure. The cars are painted gray and have names such as “The Heel Stone”, “The Slaughter Stone”, and “The Fourd Seasons”. The attraction was created in 1987 by Jim Reinders, who was inspired by his visit to Stonehenge. It is now a popular roadside attraction and a cultural landmark.
9. Avanos Hair Museum, Turkey
In the town of Avanos, in the Cappadocia region of Turkey, there is a museum that displays thousands of locks of hair from women all over the world. The museum is located in a cave under a pottery shop, and was started by a local potter named Chez Galip, who asked his female customers to leave a piece of their hair as a souvenir. The hair is hung on the walls, ceiling, and furniture, along with the names and addresses of the donors. The museum holds a Guinness World Record for the largest collection of hair, and also offers pottery classes and workshops.
10. Gnome Reserve, UK
If you have a thing for gnomes, you will love this place in Devon, England, where you can see over 2,000 gnomes and pixies in their natural habitat. The reserve covers four acres of woodland, gardens, and ponds, where the gnomes are displayed in various scenes and poses. You can also learn about the history and folklore of gnomes, and even dress up as one yourself. The reserve provides gnome hats and fishing rods for visitors to wear and pose with the gnomes. The reserve also has a museum, a gift shop, and a tea room.
