Museums are often associated with art, history, and science, but some collections defy categorization and offer a glimpse into worlds that are offbeat, quirky, or downright bizarre. From a Corvette sinkhole to a vibrator museum, these unusual museums are attracting curious visitors from near and far.
The National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, Kentucky, made headlines in 2014 when a sinkhole opened up and swallowed eight rare cars in its collection. While the hole has been filled in, the museum has kept some of the damaged vehicles on display as a reminder of the incident. According to museum spokesperson Katie Frassinelli, the sinkhole has actually boosted attendance and interest in the museum.
In Zagreb, Croatia, the Museum of Broken Relationships showcases personal mementos of failed relationships, donated by people from around the world. From love letters to wedding dresses, the items tell stories of heartbreak and hope, and offer a poignant and relatable experience for visitors.
The International Cryptozoology Museum in Portland, Maine, explores the science and folklore of elusive and mysterious creatures, such as Bigfoot and the Loch Ness Monster. With a collection of artifacts, exhibits, and interactive displays, the museum challenges visitors to think critically about the boundaries between fact and fiction.
The Good Vibrations Antique Vibrator Museum in San Francisco offers a unique perspective on the history of sexuality and pleasure. The museum's collection of approximately 100 vibrators, dating from the late 1800s to the 1970s, shows the evolution of these devices from medical tools to sexual aids.
Finally, the Atomic Museum in Las Vegas, Nevada, offers a sobering and fascinating look at the history and impact of nuclear testing and research in the United States. From bomb casings to radiation detectors, the museum's collection offers a window into a time when the world was on the brink of nuclear war.
These unusual museums are just a few examples of the diverse and surprising ways that museums can educate, entertain, and inspire visitors. As Frassinelli notes, "We like to say that we're not just a museum about cars, but a museum about people and their passions."