The 8 Strangest Roadside Attractions in Florida

World’s Smallest Police Station

Did you know Florida is home to the world’s smallest police station? You can find this adorable police station, which is virtually a small rectangular box (a phone booth), in the small city of Carrabelle.

So, what’s the history of this unique tourist attraction? This police station came to be on March 10, 1963. The phone existed before, but it was attached to a building with little shelter from the rain. 

Skunk Ape Research Headquarters

Near the Everglades, cryptid lovers can find the Skunk Ape Research Headquarters. Here, visitors can learn about this unique creature and even discover photos and audio recordings of this strange animal.

Not only can you learn more about the Skunk Ape, but you can also camp and explore the gift shop. Also at the Skunk Ape Research Headquarters, there are live animals like snakes.

Betsy the Lobster

Florida is home to multiple large statue roadside attractions, including Betsy the Lobster. Betsy the Lobster stands in Islamorada, Florida, and is 40 feet long and about 30 feet tall. This large statue is detailed and modeled after a spiny lobster. It’s a Caribbean spiny lobster made of fiberglass. The state was completed in 1985.

Islamorada is an interesting place. It’s a village that spans five islands in the Florida Keys.

Goofy Golf

Also on our list of the strangest roadside attractions in Florida is Goofy Golf in Panama City. This mini golf spot is a lot more than just a place to play a game with friends. It’s also filled with vibrant and odd art and statues.

Goofy Golf has been open for over 50 years and is a great place to have some family fun. Lee Koplin created this family business, which opened in 1959. It’s affordable and across from the County Pier.

Coral Castle

Coral Castle is a lot more than just a roadside attraction. Edward Leedskalnin created this unique castle out of oolite limestone around 1920. He spent over 25 years building this strange and beautiful castle. Although named the Coral Castle, it isn’t made of coral. The creator, Leedskalnin, was a very private person. It’s said that no one ever saw him construct the castle. Even his death was quiet. He simply placed a sign on the door saying he was going to the hospital before taking the bus and passing away three days later.

Mermaids of Weeki Wachee

If you’re in Florida, Weeki Wachee State Park is a must-visit. This fun and charming state park has one of the oldest roadside attractions in the state, swimming mermaids! Mermaids have been performing here for decades, since 1947.

The mermaid show at Weeki Wachee is a blast to watch. Depending on the season, a new show is playing, including the mermaid’s version of Hans Christian Andersen’s The Little Mermaid. After catching an incredible live mermaid show, you can also kayak, swim, and enjoy the state park’s water park.

Swampy: World’s Largest Alligator

Also, in Florida, Swampy is the World’s Largest Alligator in Christmas. Technically, Swampy isn’t the world’s largest alligator but the largest alligator-shaped building. The building is 200 feet long and hard to miss. “Swampy” is the entrance to a roadside zoo, Jungle Adventures Park. Not only can you admire this strange roadside attraction, but you can also catch a ride on the Jungle Swamp Cruise and watch the Gator Jamboree Feeding.

Solomon’s Castle

Last but not least is another jaw-dropping castle, Solomon’s Castle. This castle is in Ona, Florida. It’s an aluminum castle tucked away in the Florida woods. Honestly, it’s something you have to see in person to believe. Solomon’s Castle is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 am to 4 pm on select months. Within this castle are gorgeous artworks made by Howard Solomon. Tours are available, and there is also a restaurant in the castle!