The United States’ many man made landmarks provide ample entertainment for any driver. Whether you’re cruising along Route 66 or taking a drive from New York to Miami, you’re bound to find numerous instances of the wonderful and the wacky on your travels, from the world’s largest pancake to the world’s longest sausage. But these attractions don’t have to be simply minor points on your vacation – instead, why not take a multi-stop tour of the US and pay proper tribute to these outstanding features of pop culture!
If you’re hoping to visit some of America’s best “World’s largest” landmarks, you’re sure to be in for a treat. However, planning your route is important so pick out exactly which landmarks you want to visit before embarking on your vacation. If you live on the East Coast, why not visit The Big Duck in Flanders, New York, as a starting point.
Located on Long Island, the Big Duck was originally built in 1931 by a duck farmer in Riverhead, and used as a store in which he sold ducks and duck eggs. It was also used as a gift shop from which travellers could purchase Peking Ducks. The Big Duck measures 15 feet wide, 30 feet long and 20 feet tall, and its eyes are made from Ford Model T tail lights. It is not only a valuable Long Island landmark but is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places. According to the Long Island newspaper, Newsday, “The Big Duck has influenced the world of architecture,” so the building is definitely worth a visit on your multi-stop landmark tour of the US.
If you live near the West Coast, why not begin your journey with a trip to America’s tallest fountain in Fountain Hills, Phoenix, Arizona? Ironically, the fountain is found in the desert – and it shoots eight tons of water at a height of up to 625 feet in the air at 7000 gallons a minute! The fountain is the central attraction in the residential community of Fountain Hills, and was built in 1971 by Robert P. McCulloch. The spout of water rises from a concrete sculpture in the shape of a water lily, located at the centre of an enormous man-made lake. Whether you’re travelling in a large group of friends, or you’re taking your kids on your tour with you, you’ll love the spectacle that the fountain offers!
Or, for a novelty trip that is sure to please all, why not travel to North Pole, Alaska – 1700 miles south of the real North Pole! – and visit the World’s Largest Santa Claus. Measuring more than 48 feet tall and 33 feet wide, this giant fibreglass Kris Kringle is located next to North Pole’s famous Santa Claus House, and is the most popular attraction for many visitors in Alaska. And, with its Christmas-themed streets and candy-cane decorated street lights, North Pole is sure to provide unparalleled festive fun on your vacation – even if you visit in summer!
If you’re planning a multi-stop tour of the best “World’s largest” attractions in the United States, and you’re worried about the cost of extensive travel, rest assured you’ll be able to find hotels that run comprehensive hotel reward schemes, which allow you to collect points and other benefits, including air miles. So you’ll be able to earn rewards while making your multi-stop vacation a success!Andrew Regan is a freelance online journalist who travels extensively.