Typically, a roadside attraction is just that - a roadside attraction. However, there are exceptions to every rule, and in this case, Toad Suck is the exception! Not just one specific sight, Toad Suck is a roadside attraction that includes several photo-worthy sites scattered throughout an unincorporated community of the same name and a nearby town.
Most roadside attractions cause passers-by to do a double take, and that’s certainly the case with Toad Suck.
Signage for the unusually-named community in Perry County is attention-getting, to say the least.
The story behind Toad Suck’s name is as colorful as the name itself.
For the most part, the name is attributed to the steamboat captains and crews that once docked in the town. It’s said that the men would visit the local tavern and "suck on the bottle until they swelled up like toads." And thus, Toad Suck was born.
However, according to a researcher for the U. S. Board on Geological Names, the moniker has more of a literal meaning. Long ago, "suck" was used to describe an animal’s water supply. And so, the name Toad Suck came about because frogs and toads were drawn to the local "suck." Backing up his theory is the fact that the word, "suck," appears in other monikers, such as Suck Creek in Tennessee.
Over the years, the community has become famous for no other reason than its strange moniker.
But the town hasn’t shied away from its unusual name. Instead, it’s capitalized on it!
Countless signs, displaying “Toad Suck,” are plastered throughout Toad Suck as well as in the nearby town of Conway, which holds an annual fest, celebrating the odd name.
Dubbed Toad Suck Daze, the festival has been a favorite since its debut in 1982.
Now, somewhat of a tourist attraction people flock from all over to see Toad Suck and take advantage of its numerous photo-ops.
There are tons of opportunities to pose next to signs with the words "Toad Suck" on them.
While in the community of Toad Suck, make sure to snap a photo at Toad Suck Park.
You’ll also find several businesses with "Toad Suck" signs.
Then, head to Conway, where you’ll find Toad Suck Square.
Located at the corner of W. Oak and Front Streets in Conway, it boasts a huge Toad Suck Daze logo painted in the street at the intersection and a marquee similar to the message board in Times Square in New York.
You can commemorate your time in Toad Suck with more than photos, though.
A few local shop sells Toad Suck souvenirs.
Not surprisingly, toads are Conway's mascot and have been known to make an appearance a time or two.
To learn more about the annual Toad Suck Daze, visit the festival’s website or Facebook page.
So, did you know about Toad Suck? Ever visited or attended its namesake festival? If so, what’d you think? Tell us.
Toad Suck is just one of the wonderfully weird things about the Natural State! Click here to read about the weirdest places you can go in Arkansas.
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