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Stretching from Boston, Massachusetts, to Seattle, Washington, U.S. Interstate 90 is one of the great cross-country thoroughfares –and one of the longest, at 3,021 miles. Every day, millions of vehicles make their way along I-90, cutting down the time it takes between major cities along the route like Buffalo, Cleveland (where I live!), Chicago, Missoula, and Spokane.
If you’re planning a road trip in the northern part of the U.S., you’ll probably find yourself on I-90 at some point, and there are some pretty long, straight, and frankly boring sections. What better way to break up the drive than with a few roadside attractions?
In this post, you’ll learn some of the best roadside attractions along I-90, traversed by everything from semi-trucks to motorcycles every day. I’ve organized the list from west to east, as that’s the way that I-90 is marked (I’ve always thought it funny that all interstates “start” in the west!). From historic sights to funky pitstops, there are plenty of interesting things to see along I-90 no matter which direction you’re driving. Let’s hit the road!
In this post, I promote travel to destinations that are the traditional lands of the Očhéthi Šakówiŋ, Yankton, Tséstho’e (Cheyenne),Mnicoujou, and Apsáalooke (Crow)peoples. With respect, I make a formal land acknowledgment, extending my appreciation and respect to the past and present people of these lands. To learn more about the peoples who call these lands home, I invite you to exploreNative Land.
This post was originally written in December 2021 and was updated most recently in September 2024.
Table of Contents
Roadside Attractions Along I-90 (Map)
Before going into detail about each spot I recommend stopping along I-90, I thought it might be helpful to have a map. If you click the map above, you can use it in conjunction with the list below to plan your perfect road trip stops; on the map, I often use the name of a town where the attraction is located to map it –following the route north to south on the map matches the numbers listed below.
1. Twede’s Cafe
Nestled in the charming town of North Bend, Washington, Twede’s Cafe is a quick stop after leaving Seattle – but it’s also a must-stop for fans of the iconic TV show Twin Peaks. This cozy diner, with its rustic ambiance and friendly staff, serves up delicious, hearty meals and is famous for its “damn fine coffee” and cherry pie–it inspired and has since been inspired by the show, so it’s a pilgrimage spot for Lynchian fans.
Even if you’re not a fan of the cult classic, the cafe’s nostalgic decor and scenic surroundings make it an ideal spot to take a break from the road and enjoy the quirky charm of the Pacific Northwest. And yes, the cherry pie is that good.
2. Cataldo Mission
The Cataldo Mission, also known as the Mission of the Sacred Heart, is Idaho’s oldest standing building. Located near Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, this historic site offers a glimpse into the early missionary work and Native American history of the region.
The visitor center is great and presents a balanced perspective on this portion of Idaho’s history, from both the Catholic/white/Euro-American side and the Native American side. The beautifully preserved mission and its serene grounds are good for a stop to get out and do a little walking on a road trip.
3. Oasis Bordello Museum
You know those places that are a hidden gem? Oasis Bordello Museum is just that. Located in Wallace, Idaho, the museum is a perfect snapshot of history.
This unique museum was once an operational bordello and has been preserved to look exactly as it did when it closed in the late 1980s. You can explore the rooms, touch everything, open drawers, and listen to stories about all the ladies in Wallace. It’s a quirky and intriguing stop that offers a rare peek into a bygone era –but an important chapter – in the history of the American West.
4. Garnet Ghost Town
For a taste of Montana’s wild history, Garnet Ghost Town is an essential stop. I love a good ghost town, and have gone far enough to get my car stuck in a ditch in one (in Nevada, not Montana) and had to hike out to meet the tow truck… but that’s a story for another day!
Unlike so many abandoned towns, Garnet really has that authentic and original sense about it – meaning it’s not loaded with reconstructions or reproductions but peppered with 150-year-old structures in their original locations. You can wander through the deserted buildings, visit the visitor center for historical insights, and imagine the bustling community that once thrived here. It’s a great opportunity that offers a fascinating look at life during the gold rush in this part of the country.
5. The Mint Bar
Driving and drinking don’t go together. But if you’re driving through Sheridan, Wyoming, you can’t miss the chance to stop by the Mint Bar. We’re talking about an authentic small-town western bar that’s 116 years old!
The Mint Bar was opened in 1907 and quickly became one of the most famous speakeasies in downtown Sheridan after Prohibition took place in 1919. The decor is astounding. The old animal mounts, woodwork, and slabs of local brands are really cool and the neon sign outside really sets the stage. Plan an overnight in Sheridan and you can enjoy the full experience while still driving responsibly.
6. Deadwood
Inspiration for the show of the same name, Deadwood, South Dakota, is another of the roadside attractions along I-90, brimming with history.
Located less than 180 miles from Buffalo, Deadwood is a lovely gold rush town with a rich Wild West past. While it’s been many years since its heydays (1876 to 1879), it still retains its old town charm. There are plenty of historical sites around Deadwood. You can see the place where Jack McCall shot Wild Bill Hickok dead from behind during a poker game.
There’s also a cemetery where plenty of famous Deadwood residents rest. Many people love checking out Calamity’s Jane grave, the legendary American frontierswoman who wasn’t scared of leading the life she wanted.
7. Ta’Tanka: Story of the Bison
Rebellious cowboys take much of the spotlight when it comes to Deadwood’s history. However, there were other equally essential participants in its history: the Lakota people and the American bison.
Ta’Tanka is a roadside stop that provides an opportunity to learn more about the American bison, its sacred role in Lakota people’s lives, and how they came close to extinction. The centerpiece of the Ta’Tanka is a bronze sculpture featuring fourteen bison and three Lakota horseback riders chasing them. It’s a good experience to hear a less-told version of American history, but one that’s equally important and essential to learn lessons from.
8. Dinosaur Park
While there have been lots of historical sights I’ve mentioned so far, there are also lots of quirky roadside stops along I-90 too.
Located in Rapid City, South Dakota, Dinosaur Park is a small attraction sitting on a sandstone ridge overlooking the city. It comprises seven dinosaur sculptures and a short trail.
The park is one of the most popular I-90 roadside attractions for families, and you’ll see lots of children climbing up the dinosaurs and taking pictures of them. Dinosaur Park is free and also pet-friendly. On top of the hill, you’ll find a lovely gift shop and some of the best views of Rapid City, South Dakota.
9. Chapel in the Hills
Right on the outskirts of Rapid City is Chapel in the Hills, a location that transports you to a different world.
Built in 1969, this architectural gem is a replica of Borgund Stavkirke in Laerdal, Norway. The chapel’s design was a popular church building style during medieval times in north-western Europe. The whole landscape seems taken from a fairytale, with the stunning chapel in the center, the towering trees by its sides, and roaming animals all around. It’s a lovely spot to stroll around and let your mind wander before hitting up the road again.
10. Badlands National Park
Are you a national parks traveler too? Mr. V and I planned our whole honeymoon road trip to visit national parks on the route we took – and Badlands was one of those spots. It’s definitely more than a “roadside attraction,” but well worth the time while traveling along I-90… after all, when else are you going to be back in this part of the country?
Just a short detour off I-90, Badlands National Park is known for its stunning erosion-created scenery. The striking geological formation creates an otherworldly lunar landscape. It’s worth driving through, at the very least. You can take in the scenery from the comfort of your RV, or you can take the time to stop at various viewing points. If you have the time to go inside the park, there are several hikes you can take and experience firsthand the geological wonders.
Sold? Check out my guide to visiting Badlands to plan your time in the park.
11. Wall Drug Store
Wall Drug Store is, to say the least, a very unique store. A must-stop in South Dakota, this is more than just a drugstore. This sprawling complex features a restaurant, gift shop, and various quirky attractions, including a giant jackalope and a T-Rex. The whole experience is hokey Americana.
Known for its free ice water and famous donuts, Wall Drug is a fun and eclectic stop that promises a bit of everything – from shopping and dining to photo ops and entertainment.
12. Minuteman Missile National Historic Site
When I was a kid, I was interested in the Civil War; as an adult, I find the Cold War more fascinating. Maybe it’s the recency of the events, or the pseudo magical science of nuclear physics… in any case, Cold War “enthusiasts” (I use the term only to suggest we find it interesting, not that we’re enthusiastic about it happening!) will want to make Minuteman Missile National Historic Site as a must-stop roadside attraction along I-90.
This place is the only remaining nuclear missile field and contains the Delta-09 missile silo, one of 150 silos spread across western South Dakota. The historic site offers an insightful tour to visit the control center and the silo with the unarmed missile placed inside. The tours are by appointment, so prepare to allow a bit of extra time. It’s still worth it for this rare bit of Cold War history!
13. 1880 Town
All aboard! Next stop? Further back in history: 1880 (Town), to be exact.
A cultural center, 1880 Town invites you to travel back in time and experience life in the Old West. It’s a wonderful experience if you love history. The village has more than 30 buildings from the 1880s to 1920s, brimming with relics and artifacts. There are tons of fun activities to participate in and enjoy. During peak season, you can rent costumes for the whole family and take an Old West photo as a souvenir. You can also visit the Casey Tibbs Museum to learn more about the 9-time World Champion Rodeo Cowboy.
14. Dignity Statue
Dignity of Earth and Sky is a sculpture located on a bluff between exits 263 and 265 on Interstate 90 near Chamberlain. It’s an impressive work of art. The statue stands around 50 feet tall, and it can be seen from I-90 as you’re driving by.
However, I recommend that you make a quick stop to swing by and see it in greater detail. The artist did a phenomenal job creating this stainless steel statue, which is a tribute to the Native Americans of the Great Plains. This stop also has a rest area. Restrooms and picnic areas are available for those wanting to take a longer break from driving.
15. The World’s Only Corn Palace
Not to be corny, but the world’s only Corn Palace is definitely one of the most unique roadside attractions along I-90.
When I say unique, I mean it – it’s the only “corn palace” in the U.S. and the world, as the name suggests.
The Mitchell Corn Palace started in 1892 to showcase the area’s agricultural potential. Today, it still celebrates South Dakota’s agriculture, the backbone of its economic activity. With 500,000 people visiting each year, the Corn Palace has grown in popularity over the years. It’s also a pretty fun stop to appreciate corn art. Every year, local artists design murals with plants and seeds local farmers grow to create the artwork.
16. Sioux Empire Medical Museum
I know, learning about the history of medicine doesn’t seem like a fun stop for a road trip. But believe me, the Sioux Empire Medical Museum is a hidden gem.
It is located in the basem*nt of the Sanford Hospital complex in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. The museum is jam-packed with hidden treasures from the past inside and out. Tools, uniforms, and treatments are all outlined – the mannequins with uniforms are a bit scary. I promise you’ll be fascinated by how time and technology have changed over the years –and you’ll be thankful you did not live 100 years ago. Oh, and the museum is free!
17. Jolly Green Giant Statue
Standing tall at 55 feet, the Jolly Green Giant Statue in Blue Earth is an iconic and cheerful landmark. The Green Giant is a great photo op but there is also the Green Giant Museum, which delves into the history of this beloved advertising figure.
Little ones will love the musical playground – talk about a particularly welcome and melodic break from driving.
18. SPAM Museum
Photos courtesy of Mitchell Laurren-Ring & peachsmack via Flickr
The SPAM Museum in Austin, Minnesota, celebrates the history and cultural impact of the world-famous canned meat. Don’t hate –it’s delicious when cooked properly! (My preferred method is with eggs for breakfast, a particularly Hawaiian way to do it.
It is a kitschy place that is well done, interesting and informative. The company was innovative with its cans and recipes. You can try samples of various SPAM meats while learning about their history and manufacturing methods. It’s a delightful stop for food enthusiasts and curious travelers alike, offering a unique slice of Americana.
19. FAST Fiberglass Mold Graveyard
Fans of the unique and weird, don’t miss the chance to discover the quirky and artistic side of Wisconsin at the FAST Fiberglass Mold Graveyard in Sparta. This outdoor collection of large fiberglass molds includes everything from dinosaurs to giant ice cream cones.
It’s an offbeat stop where you can stretch your legs, wander among these oversized sculptures, and appreciate the craftsmanship and creativity behind them.
20. Pink Elephant
The Pink Elephant in DeForest, Wisconsin, is unmissable. This larger-than-life statue stands proudly outside a local gas station, inviting travelers to stop for a photo and a bit of fun. The pink pachyderm not only is it a marvel in its own right, but it has a rich deep history as well; I won’t spoil it, so plan ahead to stop here, get fuel, and learn more.
21. Indiana Dunes National Park
Say what you will about it after visiting –Indiana Dunes National Park is a national park, and thus that makes it worth stopping for an overnight if you have the time and want to experience what makes this park unique in the National Park Service system.
I took a weekend trip to Indiana Dunes in early 2024, and while it doesn’t stand up to the national parks of the American West when it comes to natural beauty, it does have some particularly unique sights: towering, slow-moving dunes, historic homes, and bird sanctuaries among them. Check out my guide to visiting the park, and at least consider making a stop to hike the Dune Succession Trail since it shows off the best of the area.
22. Birthplace of Superman
Welcome to my city! Among many cultural things Cleveland lays claim to, “The Land” proudly celebrates its connection to the Man of Steel with the Birthplace of Superman. This site honors the creators, Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster, who conceived the iconic superhero in their Cleveland home.
You can explore exhibits and memorabilia related to Superman’s origins and enjoy the local pride in this legendary character. It’s a must-stop for comic book fans and history enthusiasts.
23. Cross Island Chapel
Your last stop is Cross Island Chapel, in Oneida, New York. Known as the World’s Smallest Church, the Cross Island Chapel offers a peaceful retreat before reaching the end of the road – or at least the end of I-90 – in Boston
Situated on a tiny island in the middle of a pond, this charming chapel is accessible by a small bridge. It’s a peaceful and picturesque spot, perfect for one last break from the road or a special photo opportunity.
Do you know of any other roadside attractions along I-90 worth stopping for –or do have other questions about these ones? Let me know in the comments below!
