Massachusetts: The Paper House
> Location: Rockport
In 1922, after attempting to insulate his summer home with newspapers, mechanical engineer Elis Stenman took his experiment a step further and built nearly his entire house out of them. Other than the floor, ceilings, and frame, everything in the house, including furniture, walls, and doors, is made of newspapers – a total of 100,000 of them.
Michigan: World’s largest tire
> Location: Allen Park
If you’ve flown in or out of the Detroit airport, then it’s likely you’ve seen a huge tire off Interstate 94. Operated as a Ferris wheel – and advertisement for Uniroyal tires – during the 1964-1965 New York World’s Fair, it weighs 12 tons and stands 80 feet tall. It was moved to Allen Park in 1966 to stand next to a Uniroyal corporate building.
Minnesota: Spam Museum
> Location: Austin
The pranksters at the Spam Museum say the edifice “Puts a whole new spin on cubism.” At this museum, you’ll learn everything you ever wanted to know and more about this canned meat delicacy. You can also buy a t-shirt or register as a SPAMbassador.
Mississippi: Devil’s Crossroads
> Location: Corner of highways 61 and 49, Clarksdale
The intersection of highways 61 and 49 in Clarksdale is rumored to be the spot where famous blues musician Robert Johnson sold his soul to the devil in exchange for his guitar prowess. The location is now marked with a pole displaying three huge blue guitars and a sign designating it “The Crossroads.”
Missouri: Nuclear Waste Adventure Trail and Museum
> Location: Weldon Spring
Formerly the site of a factory that made explosives and later a uranium refinery, this artificial hill in Missouri is an entombed hazardous waste site. After 15 years of cleanup and hundreds of millions of dollars spent, the Weldon Spring Site Remedial Action Project Disposal Cell – as it’s called officially – is considered a safe recreational area and is a popular spot for birdwatchers and stargazers.
Sponsored: Tips for Investing
A financial advisor can help you understand the advantages and disadvantages of investment properties. Finding a qualified financial advisor doesn’t have to be hard. SmartAsset’s free tool matches you with up to three financial advisors who serve your area, and you can interview your advisor matches at no cost to decide which one is right for you. If you’re ready to find an advisor who can help you achieve your financial goals, get started now.
Investing in real estate can diversify your portfolio. But expanding your horizons may add additional costs. If you’re an investor looking to minimize expenses, consider checking out online brokerages. They often offer low investment fees, helping you maximize your profit.
