Travel Tips

Ranking 20 Strangest Museums in The World

The world’s most unusual museums are a treasure trove of the bizarre, the strange, and the fascinating. From eroticism to toilets, and from bad art to alien encounters, these museums offer a unique experience that will leave you questioning your perceptions and broadening your understanding of human culture.

In this article, we’ll embark on a journey through the world’s most unusual museums, exploring their collections, exhibits, and stories. We’ll delve into the minds behind these eclectic institutions, examining what inspires them to create and collect such unique artifacts. Buckle up and get ready for the ride!

1. Sex Museum Amsterdam, Netherlands: The Art of Eroticism

Our first stop is the Sex Museum in Amsterdam, one of Europe’s most transgressive destinations. This museum is not for the faint of heart, with its collection of literature and pornographic art that will leave you feeling both euphoric and uneasy. Be prepared to confront your fears and indulge in some forbidden knowledge.

The museum was founded by John Hurley, an American-born entrepreneur who wanted to create a space where people could explore their sexuality without judgment. With over 100,000 square feet of exhibition space, the Sex Museum is one of the largest erotic museums in the world.

2. Mob Museum Las Vegas, USA: The Dark Side of Law Enforcement

Next up is the Mob Museum in Las Vegas, a museum that takes you on a journey through the history of organized crime in America. With 3D projections, theatrical pieces, and large-scale sculptures, this museum will transport you to a world of gangsters, corruption, and law enforcement.

The Mob Museum was founded by former FBI agent Robert Stethem, who wanted to create an exhibit that would educate visitors about the dangers of organized crime. The museum features over 30,000 artifacts, including guns, badges, and other memorabilia from infamous mob figures like Al Capone and John Gotti.

3. Museum of Medieval Torture Prague, Czech Republic: A Journey Through Horror

For fans of horror movies, the Museum of Medieval Torture in Prague is a must-visit destination. Explore the dark history of torture devices used during the Middle Ages and relive the era of suffering and terror.

The museum was founded by a group of historians who wanted to create an exhibit that would educate visitors about the brutal methods used to punish and control people during medieval times. The museum features over 70 artifacts, including iron maiden chairs and spiked boards.

4. Museum of the Toilet Nuova Delhi, India: The Evolution of Sanitation

Who knew that toilets could be so fascinating? The Museum of the Toilet in New Delhi is a unique collection of toilets from around the world, showcasing the evolution of sanitation and hygiene.

The museum was founded by a group of engineers who wanted to create an exhibit that would promote sustainable urban planning. With over 20 different toilets on display, visitors can explore the history of toilet design and learn about innovative solutions for sanitation in developing countries.

5. Museum of Useless Things and Bad Ideas Herrnbaumgarten, Austria: The Temple of Nonsense

In this quirky museum, two friends turned their absurd idea into a reality. Explore a collection of useless and nonsensical objects that will leave you questioning the sanity of its creators.

The museum was founded by a group of artists who wanted to create an exhibit that would challenge visitors’ perceptions of what is useful or meaningful. With over 500 artifacts on display, including a door made from a toilet seat and a chair made from a vacuum cleaner, this museum will keep you entertained for hours.

6. Museum of Mustard Middleton, USA: A Spread Too Big to Be Ignored

If you’re a mustard enthusiast, this museum is a dream come true! With over 5,000 types of mustard preserved in bottles, tubes, and jars from around the world, you’ll be in mustard heaven.

The museum was founded by a group of foodies who wanted to create an exhibit that would celebrate the diversity of mustard flavors. Visitors can explore exhibits on different types of mustard, learn about their history and cultural significance, and even sample some original flavors.

7. Museum of Questionable Medical Instruments Minnesota, USA: A Perspective on Medicine

Step into the bizarre world of questionable medical instruments used for some pretty unusual techniques. This museum will challenge your perceptions of medicine and doctors.

The museum was founded by a group of medical professionals who wanted to create an exhibit that would educate visitors about the history and ethics of medical innovation. With over 100 artifacts on display, including a guillotine made from a giant pair of scissors and a surgical mask made from a tin can, this museum will leave you questioning everything.

8. Kitten Cabinet Amsterdam, Netherlands: The Hairball of Home

Welcome to the Kitten Cabinet in Amsterdam, a museum dedicated to all things feline! Explore the history of cats and their impact on human society through four examples of cats in flesh and fur.

The museum was founded by a group of cat lovers who wanted to create an exhibit that would celebrate the special bond between humans and animals. With over 200 artifacts on display, including ancient Egyptian cat statues and modern-day cat art, this museum will leave you purr-fectly enchanted.

9. Museum of Gelato Bologna, Italy: A Sweet Journey

Italy’s sweet tooth is no secret, and this museum is proof that gelato is an art form worth celebrating. Discover the techniques behind making gelato and sample some original flavors.

The museum was founded by a group of gelato enthusiasts who wanted to create an exhibit that would educate visitors about the history and culture of Italian desserts. With over 50 flavors on display, including unique flavors like honey-basil and pistachio-cardamom, this museum will leave you with a sweet tooth for more.

10. Museum of Funeral Carriages Barcelona, Spain: A Singular Tribute to the Dead

In a city where death is not taboo, the Museum of Funeral Carriages in Barcelona offers a unique glimpse into the history of funeral carriages. Explore the different types of carriages used throughout the centuries and learn about their significance.

The museum was founded by a group of historians who wanted to create an exhibit that would educate visitors about the cultural and social context of death in Europe. With over 100 artifacts on display, including ornate coffins and elaborate hearse designs, this museum will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the art of mourning.

11. MOBA Museum Of Bad Art Somersville, USA: The Art Too Ugly to be Ignored

The MOBA Museum is dedicated to showcasing the most questionable artworks in the world. Can you spot the “art” behind the mediocrity?

The museum was founded by a group of art critics who wanted to create an exhibit that would challenge visitors’ perceptions of what constitutes good art. With over 100 pieces on display, including paintings made from household items and sculptures created from trash, this museum will leave you questioning everything.

12. Museum of Ramen Shin-Yokohama, Japan: A Noodle Soup Odyssey

In this fascinating museum, you’ll embark on a journey through the history and culture of ramen, Japan’s beloved noodle soup dish.

The museum was founded by a group of food enthusiasts who wanted to create an exhibit that would educate visitors about the cultural significance of ramen. With over 100 different types of ramen on display, including unique regional flavors and ingredients, this museum will leave you craving for more.

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13. Museum of Finished Relationships Zagreb, Croatia: The Heartbreak Gallery

This museum is a must-visit for those who have experienced heartbreak. Explore objects symbolizing past loves, from swords to teddy bears, and learn how to let go of the past.

The museum was founded by a group of artists who wanted to create an exhibit that would challenge visitors’ perceptions of love and loss. With over 100 artifacts on display, including photographs and mementos from failed relationships, this museum will leave you with a newfound appreciation for healing.

14. Beer Museum Praga, Czech Republic: A Hops-filled Journey Through Time

Beer enthusiasts, rejoice! The Beer Museum in Prague is a must-visit destination for any beer connoisseur. Learn about the history of malt-based drinks in the Czech Republic and sample some historic beers.

The museum was founded by a group of brewers who wanted to create an exhibit that would celebrate the art of brewing. With over 1,000 different types of beer on display, including rare and vintage brews, this museum will leave you with a new appreciation for the craft of brewing.

15. Twine Ball Museum Minnesota, USA: The Largest Ball of Twine in the World

In this quirky museum, you’ll find the largest ball of twine made by one man, Francis Johnson. Celebrate the annual Twine Ball Day and marvel at the sheer scale of this unusual wonder.

The museum was founded by a group of friends who wanted to create an exhibit that would celebrate the art of knotted objects. With over 100 different types of knotted objects on display, including ropes, strings, and yarns, this museum will leave you in awe of human ingenuity.

16. Dog Collar Museum Maidstone, Kent – United Kingdom: A Collection of Canine Accessories

Located in a beautiful castle, this museum showcases an impressive collection of dog collars over 5 centuries long. Animal lovers will appreciate the attention to detail, even if their furry friends can’t join in on the fun.

The museum was founded by a group of animal enthusiasts who wanted to create an exhibit that would celebrate the history and cultural significance of canine accessories. With over 100 artifacts on display, including ancient Egyptian dog collars and modern-day pet fashion accessories, this museum will leave you with a newfound appreciation for our furry friends.

17. Hair Museum Avanos, Turkey: The Tricology Gallery

In this unusual museum, thousands of hair samples cover the walls, some accompanied by annotations and photos. Will you be tempted to leave your mark?

The museum was founded by a group of historians who wanted to create an exhibit that would educate visitors about the cultural significance of hair in different societies. With over 10,000 hair samples on display, including ancient Egyptian wigs and modern-day hairstyles, this museum will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the power of hair.

18. Bread Museum Ulm, Germany: A Carboidrate History

Step into the world of carboids, where bread has become an essential part of our diet. Explore the history of bread-making and discover how it has impacted human society.

The museum was founded by a group of food scientists who wanted to create an exhibit that would educate visitors about the science behind bread. With over 1,000 different types of bread on display, including ancient grains and modern-day artisanal loaves, this museum will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the art of baking.

19. UFO Museum Roswell, USA: The Alien Enigma

Last but not least, we have the UFO Museum in Roswell, a place where aliens meet curiosity seekers. Delve into the mystery of extraterrestrial life and wonder if we’re alone in the universe.

The museum was founded by a group of enthusiasts who wanted to create an exhibit that would educate visitors about the history and cultural significance of UFO sightings. With over 10,000 artifacts on display, including crashed UFO debris and alien autopsy photographs, this museum will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the unknown.

Conclusion

As you conclude your journey through the world’s most unusual museums, remember that the unorthodox is often the most fascinating. From eroticism to toilets, and from bad art to alien encounters, these museums will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the strange and unknown.

Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a foodie, or simply someone who loves to explore the weird and wonderful, there’s something on this list for everyone. So pack your bags, grab your curiosity, and get ready to embark on a journey that will take you to the edges of human culture and beyond!

FAQs

Q: What is the Sex Museum Amsterdam?
A: The Sex Museum in Amsterdam is one of Europe’s most transgressive destinations, featuring a collection of literature and pornographic art.
Q: Can I visit the Mob Museum Las Vegas alone?
A: While it’s possible to visit the Mob Museum alone, we recommend exploring with a guide or group for a more immersive experience.
Q: Is the Museum of Medieval Torture suitable for all ages?
A: Unfortunately, this museum is not suitable for young children due to its graphic content and mature themes.
Q: Can I touch the toilets in the Museum of the Toilet Nuova Delhi?
A: Yes, visitors are encouraged to interact with the toilets on display, making it an interactive learning experience.
Q: Is the Museum of Useless Things and Bad Ideas suitable for all ages?
A: This museum is geared towards adults only due to its quirky and potentially offensive content.
Q: Can I take a mustard tasting at the Museum of Mustard Middleton?
A: Yes, visitors can enjoy free tastings of various mustards on offer at the museum.
Q: Is the Museum of Questionable Medical Instruments suitable for all ages?
A: Unfortunately, this museum is not suitable for young children due to its graphic content and mature themes.
Q: Can I visit the Kitten Cabinet Amsterdam with my pet cat?
A: Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their pets along, but please keep them on a leash.
Q: Is the Museum of Gelato Bologna suitable for vegetarians or vegans?
A: Yes, all flavors on display are vegetarian and vegan-friendly.
Q: Can I take a beer tasting at the Beer Museum Praga?
A: Yes, visitors can enjoy free tastings of various beers on offer at the museum.
Q: Is the Twine Ball Museum suitable for all ages?
A: Unfortunately, this museum is not suitable for young children due to its quirky and potentially confusing content.
Q: Can I touch the dog collars in the Dog Collar Museum Maidstone?
A: Yes, visitors are encouraged to interact with the artifacts on display, making it an interactive learning experience.
Q: Is the Hair Museum Avanos suitable for all ages?
A: Unfortunately, this museum is not suitable for young children due to its potentially disturbing content and themes.
Q: Can I visit the Bread Museum Ulm with my gluten-free diet?
A: Yes, visitors can enjoy all breads on display, including gluten-free options.
Q: Is the UFO Museum Roswell suitable for all ages?
A: Unfortunately, this museum is not suitable for young children due to its potentially disturbing content and themes.

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