It's no secret that Rhode Island is an awfully strange place at times. Living in the smallest state is definitely a unique way to live and even just visiting can lead to one-of-a-kind experiences. This list highlights a dozen of the state's strangest places that are so worth checking out if you're up for a little bit of weirdness in your life. Here are 12 weird places to visit in Rhode Island.
1. Green Animals Topiary Garden, Portsmouth
These magical gardens are located in Portsmouth and are operated by the Newport Preservation society. It's easy to guess where the name comes from with over 80 pieces of unique topiary on the lands.
2. Gun Totem, Providence
This 12 foot high structure is made from 1,000 turned in handguns and was designed by artist Boris Baly. This is definitely a unique site.
3. The Fantastic Umbrella Factory, Charlestown
From emus roaming around the property to vintage and local craft shops, the Umbrella Factory is a hidden gem featuring many fun attractions. It's found in the charming small town of Charlestown.
4. Fort Wetherill, Jamestown
This former Coast Guard artillery fort is not for the faint of heart with various dark and eerie tunnels stretching acres the land. The beautiful granite cliffs on the edges of the fort make for a breathtaking view of Narragansett Bay.
5. Fleur-de-Lys Studio, Providence
This eccentric house is eye catching and amazing. It was consistently featured in many H.P. Lovecraft novels and remains a breathtaking site on College Hill in Providence.
6. Old Stone Tower, Newport
There is much speculation surrounding Newport Tower. While most believe it to be the remains of a 17th century windmill, others say it's much older and signifies earlier North American settlers. Either way, it's definitely one-of-a-kind.
7. Big Blue Bug, I-95
This unique attraction might be a drive-by visit, but it's still worth it. The Big Blue Bug has been a Rhode Island icon for decades and can be seen on I-95 through Providence.
8. Great Swamp Fight Monument, South Kingstown
The Great Swamp Fight was an important battle during King Philip's War. It was fought in December of 1675 with a massive granite monument being placed in the early 1900s. It's found along a hiking trail in South Kingstown.
9. Musée Patamécanique, Bristol
This Private Museum is strictly appointment only, but definitely worth the visit if you manage to make it inside. Largely inspired by the concept of a cabinet of curiosities, this is a museum experience you won't soon forget.
10. Seaview Terrace, Newport
This property is so creepy that the exterior was used in the filming of the gothic horror television series, Dark Shadows. The various reports of ghosts residing on this property add to the sense of utter terror.
11. H.P. Lovecraft's Grave, Providence
The now legendary horror fiction writer known as H.P. Lovecraft was a native Rhode Islander and included many major attractions in his novels. His grave at Swan Point Cemetery is found in Providence just miles away from many other sites referenced throughout his work.
12. Belcourt Castle, Newport
This century-old estate is one of Rhode Island's spookiest destinations. If you're feeling brave enough, the house offers tours of the haunted rooms and worldly antiques.
Looking for a few more unique ideas for fun things to do in Rhode Island? Here's another list of one of a kind attractions.
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