Check this out! Carhenge, you heard right, is as unique as it sounds and it’s smack dab in the middle of the Midwest. Imagine Stonehenge but made entirely out of cars. Yep, that’s Carhenge!
The Midwest has a knack for quirky roadside attractions, could be because of those long drives between towns or some farming influence, who knows? But hey, these peculiar spots add a little spice to those long road trips.
Carhenge, for example, is all the way in Alliance, Nebraska, towards the western side of the state. Believe it or not, this car-made wonder was a tribute to a local farmer. When he passed away, his family went above and beyond to honor him. They, led by Jim Reinders, built a huge monument reflecting Stonehenge, only, with cars. Despite some grumbles from locals, it’s still standing proud today.
It’s not just a tourist attraction. When they officially opened Carhenge, the Reinders family put on a massive celebration for their dearly departed dad filled with songs, poetry, and even plays. Imagine that!
One of the unique areas in Carhenge is the “Car Art Preserve”. As you could guess from the name, it features an art park made entirely out of car parts. There’s even a competition for the best car-part sculpture, with the winner getting cash and their artwork added to the museum. Who knew a car part could get you a scholarship?
What’s more, if you’re on a long drive and your legs are starving for a stretch, take a walk in the pleasant path around the Car Art Preserve. For the thirsty ones among us, they’ve got soda and, my favorite bit, Carhenge-themed souvenirs from a gift shop hilariously named the “Pit Stop Gift Shop.”
Why is Carhenge an absolute win for any roadside attraction list? Here’s why:
1. It’s ingeniously original.
2. There’s a gift shop that sells shot glasses.
3. It’s totally free of charge.
A little bonus: if you’re headed out of Carhenge, drive 5 minutes down the Highway 87, and you’ll come across another wacky addition for your photo collection before you carry on with your journey.
Getting to Carhenge is easy – drive on Highway 87 until you reach Alliance, Nebraska. Just follow the signboards, you certainly can’t miss it. If you’re looking to check the surprise attraction on the highway, stick to Highway 87 for 2 more miles after leaving Alliance.
Safe to say, the Midwest has a sense of humor when it comes to its roadside attractions, and Carhenge is no exception. It’s a must-see!