Some travelers love traveling to new destinations by plane, while others prefer a peaceful voyage at sea. However, some travelers live for long road trips by automobile, enjoying the smell of burning rubber and seeing nothing but miles of road ahead of them.
When exploring the US by car (or motorcycle), many travelers love to make stops in small towns along the way. Whether they embark on a road trip from Pheonix to Sedona or drive solo along California's Highway 1, travelers can be drawn by the charms of small towns. However, some towns in the US are attractive to tourists simply because of their names, which are unconventional, unique, and quirky.
Therefore, travelers road tripping across the US should check out these towns for their unusual names. However, keep in mind that many of these locations are small towns (while some are now abandoned), so travelers should be mindful and avoid trespassing on private property.
9 Loveland, Colorado
Also known as Colorado's Sweetheart City, couples can explore the charming town of Loveland. First, take a selfie on the Love Lock Sculpture (which overlooks Lake Loveland), then take a peaceful walk around the Benson Sculpture Garden. Tourists can also enjoy a lovely day at the Boyd Lake State Park or learn more about local history at the Loveland Museum. Travelers can explore this cozy town as a scenic day trip from Denver.
8 Santa Claus, Arizona
You'd think a town named Santa Claus would be situated someplace cold. Instead, however, the abandoned village of Santa Claus sits lonely along Route 93 in Arizona's Mojave County. Created in the 1930s, this town was meant to resemble a desert oasis that mirrored the whimsy of Christmas in the North Pole. Instead, its popularity declined less than 40 years later, with the last businesses closing in 1995. Curious travelers who stop by the town of Santa Claus will only find graffiti and a worn-down building of the village's sales office, with a sign that declares, "THIS IS IT!" Eager travelers should avoid crossing the wired fence because the area is home to rattlesnakes.
7 Chloride, Arizona
Just a stone's throw away from Santa Claus village, Chloride is a "living ghost town." Situated just off Route 93, the town was known for mining silver ore. Today, curious travelers can stop by this quiet town to appreciate some local art and visit Chloride's Old Jail and Playhouse, historical sites. This peaceful town is a stark contrast to the flashing lights of Las Vegas (which has many must-do activities for tourists), which is only a short drive away.
6 Accident, Maryland
Many travelers will make jokes about the name of this town, while others will make puns unintentionally (or rather, accidentally). However, Accident is a perfect place to experience all 4 seasons in an Appalachian environment. Maryland's North Main Street runs through this quiet town! Visitors can check out Accident, making sure to stop by the historical Drane House, The Rolling Pin Bakery, the Nona's Pizza.
5 Boring, Oregon
This Oregon town is probably the only town in the world that enjoys calling itself 'Boring.' Oregon's Boring is located in Clackamas County, just outside of Portland. Travelers who're considering moving may want to keep Boring in mind; as they say, it's "An exciting place to call home." Visitors can enjoy a local play at The Nutz-n-Boltz Theater Company or relax with a cup of coffee at Cat's Moon Coffee. Perhaps Boring's most intriguing attraction is their North American Bigfoot Center, a museum dedicated to the elusive Bigfoot.
4 Truth Or Consequences, New Mexico
It may sound like the name of an exciting board game, but Truth Or Consequences is an actual New Mexico town! Sitting along Route 25, this quirky desert town welcomes tourists to explore its history and attractions. Nature enthusiasts can admire the sandy beaches at the Elephant Butte Lake State Park. At the same time, history buffs will enjoy a day visiting the Geronimo Springs Museum. Visitors can even enjoy some locally crafted beer at the Truth Or Consequences Brewing Company or dine at the countless restaurants across the town.
3 Okay, Oklahoma
Situated along the eastern end of Oklahoma's Verdigris River is Okay. This quiet Oklahoma town has been referenced many times as possessing an unusual name. Road trippers can stop by this town on their way to the Sequoyah Bay State Park. There's not too much to see in Okay. Still, it's nearby some historical attractions like the Muskogee War Memorial Park (Home of the USS Batfish) and the Fort Gibson Historic Site.
2 Whynot, North Carolina
This North Carolina town is located in Randolph County and got its name during a debate amongst European settlers. One man suggested naming the town "Why not" so they could go home after hours of bickering. This cozy town is not only known for its unusual name; it's also known for its pottery. Along Highway 705 (also known as the North Carolina Pottery Highway), locals place their pottery works on display for visitors. Nearby Whynot is Seagrove, a town that houses the North Carolina Pottery Center and the Museum of North Carolina Traditional Pottery.
1 Why, Arizona
Why should enthusiastic road trippers and lovers of the unusual visit this small Arizona town? Because it's in close proximity to Southern Arizona's Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument and the Desert Diamond Casino! Why is a pretty small community, but travelers can still enjoy a bite at Granny's Kitchen or camp out under the stars at the local RV park.