When you think about the most fascinating places in the US to travel, Washington D.C probably comes to mind at some point during the list. But what about the lesser sung Washington state? While it shares a name with the nation’s capital, it is often overlooked, with only the occasional mention of Seattle, and otherwise ignored completely.

While this slight is understandable (after all, it isn’t the most recognized state in the US), you may be surprised to know that ignoring this little region is quite a mistake, at least for those who like something a little less average in their tourist traps. Attractions in Washington have some of the oddest, unique, and downright creepy niches in the country, and every year it draws more and more of those interested in a little macabre, bizarre  entertainment.

jaketomb

The first of these attractions in Washington is Marsh’s Free Museum. Located in the town of Long Beach, this little museum has been around for years, drawing anyone who happens to find themselves traveling in the area. The name is accurate, as the museum itself is free, giving you the chance to gander at a wide range of strange artifacts, such as Jake, the mummified half man/ half alligator, who is said to have been part of the staff of a local brothel, where he would lead men to the young women waiting eagerly to give them some time, in exchange for some silver. The many odd exhibits here are countered with a vast gift shop, that offers plenty of equally unique trinkets to take home, to commemorate your visit.

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Another place that offers a modern look into the traditional freak show exhibit, is the Ye Olde Curiosity Shop, in Seattle. While not a museum, it is a strange little gift shop. That has some one of a kind items for sale, for anyone who has a very disturbing taste in décor. When you first walk in, you are greeted by the shop’s mascots, a male and female mummy couple, of which originally came from here in the US. While I am not sure how it is they died, Sylvia and Sylvester set a tone for the rest of the visit. From real shrunken heads, to an entire ‘mermaid’ family, to a monkey who’s insides have been turned into a wig, you can be sure to find something interesting to take home here.

The last of the attractions in Washington that have been added to my list of weird place to visit, is the Grave of the Pickled Pioneer. The story goes like this: a man named Dr William Keil wished to lead a team of 250 people within a religious sect he led, known as the Bethelites, to a new home. He had promised his son, William Keil, that he could lead the train, and the nineteen year old eager accepted the responsibility.

But shortly before the wagon train was to depart, he came down with Malaria, and passed away. His father, devastated, but wishing to fulfill his promise, built a lead-lined casket, and filled it with whiskey, placing his son in the center, and sealing it shut. Placing the casket in a black wagon, he put it at the front of the train, and allowed his son to lead, as he had wished. His grave is now in Menlo, and is one of the strangest attractions in Washington, but also one of the lesser known.

If you are looking for a something a little different to spice up your vacation, head to Washington, and check out the many interesting sights, stories, and traditions that make it such an amazing state.

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