Three ND destinations are 'quirky' enough to appear on an alternate visit list
Nov 12, 2024
BISMARCK, ND (KXNET) — Three North Dakota landmark destinations have made a list of places to visit when international travelers don't want to go to conventional locations on a trip.
According to a survey by Barefoot Yachts Indonesia, a luxury yacht company, The North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame in Medora, The World's Largest Buffalo Monument in Jamestown and The Geographical Center of North Dakota in Rugby are the lesser-known places travelers want to see in North Dakota.
The Cowboy Hall of Fame came in at #4 on the list of 120 "quirky" destinations. The buffalo monument came in at #11 and the geographical center monument was voted in at #52.
In addition to uncovering the top quirky landmarks in America, the survey also looked into the motivations and preferences of domestic U.S. travelers when seeking alternative travel experiences.
When it comes to motivation for choosing unconventional travel destinations, the top factor was seeking solitude and tranquility, with 42% of respondents opting for destinations that allow them to escape from crowded tourist hotspots. Another 22% cited a passion for adventure and exploration as their primary motivator, while 20% were drawn to the idea of experiencing something few others have. Meanwhile, 16% of respondents indicated that the opportunity to learn about unique cultures and histories was a key factor in their choice of unconventional destinations.
Below is Barefoot Yachts Indonesia's top 10 list and descriptions, along with the two North Dakota spots outside the top 10:
#1 The Seven Magic Mountains, Las Vegas, Nevada
The top choice among international travelers was this unique art installation which features seven towering stacks of brightly colored boulders set against the desert backdrop. It’s a fun and quirky sight that combines art and nature, making it a popular spot for photos.
#2 The Pyramid Lake, Northeast of Reno, Nevada
In second place, this unique lake is known for its striking blue waters and tufa formations. The quirky shape of the lake and its unique cultural significance to the Paiute Tribe make it an interesting destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
#3 The International UFO Museum and Research Center, Roswell, New Mexico
Third most popular, this quirky museum is dedicated to the famous Roswell UFO incident and features exhibits on extraterrestrial life, conspiracy theories, and the town's UFO culture. It's a must-visit for anyone interested in the mysteries of the universe.
#4 The North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame, Medora, North Dakota
This museum celebrates the rich cowboy culture of North Dakota, featuring quirky exhibits on rodeo history, cowboy legends, and Western art. It's a unique destination for those interested in the state's ranching heritage.
#5 Little Wild Horse Canyon, near Goblin Valley State Park, Utah
This slot canyon offers a unique hiking experience with its narrow, winding passageways and stunning rock formations. As you navigate through the canyon, you'll encounter quirky rock features and colorful walls that create a mesmerizing environment. The hike is family-friendly, and the vibrant, twisting shapes of the canyon walls make it a perfect spot for photography and exploration.
#6 The Old Slave Mart Museum, Charleston, South Carolina
This historic site offers a unique and poignant look at Charleston's role in the slave trade. The museum features quirky exhibits on the history of slavery in the region and aims to educate visitors on this important part of American history.
#7 The Dunes, Indiana Dunes National Park, Indiana
This unique national park features stunning sand dunes along the shores of Lake Michigan. The quirky landscape and diverse ecosystems provide opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and enjoying unusual natural scenery.
#8 The Detroit Historical Museum, Detroit, Michigan
This museum features unique exhibits that showcase the quirky and often overlooked history of Detroit. From the city's rich automotive heritage to its vibrant music scene, the museum offers an engaging experience with a mix of fascinating artifacts and stories.
#9 The Museum of Pop Culture, Seattle, Washington
The Museum of Pop Culture features a unique collection dedicated to pop, including exhibits on music, video games, and science fiction. Its eccentric architecture and diverse exhibits provide a quirky experience for visitors interested in contemporary culture.
#10 The Carlsbad Caverns National Park, Carlsbad, New Mexico
Home to over 119 caves, the park offers a quirky underground experience with stunning rock formations and a massive limestone cavern. The Bat Flight Program, where visitors can watch thousands of bats emerge at sunset, adds an extra layer of uniqueness to the experience.
#11 The World's Largest Buffalo Monument (Jamestown)
This giant cement buffalo stands 26 feet tall and serves as a quirky landmark in Jamestown. It celebrates the state's buffalo heritage and provides a fun photo opportunity for visitors exploring the area.
#52 The Geographical Center of North America (Rugby)
This quirky landmark features a simple monument marking the geographical center of North America. Visitors can take pictures at this unique spot and learn about the significance of Rugby in the geographical landscape.
You can view the complete list of 120 alternative destinations and more survey information here.
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