This blog post was updated on May 30, 2023.

The Met. The Louvre. The Smithsonian. Sure, wonderful museums that attract millions of tourists every year. But maybe you’re looking for something different? A truly quirky museum that can surprise with unexpected collections? Well, you’ve come to the right place, because we have curated a list of some of the most unusual museums throughout the world! 

Lawnmower Museum — Southport, U.K.

Located in Southport, England, just north of Liverpool, the British Lawnmower Museum is one of the world’s leading authorities in antique gardening machinery and lawnmower equipment. Conceived by racing champion Brian Radam, this atypical museum is the place to go if you want to check lawnmowers owned by Prince Charles, Princess Diane, or Brian May among other celebrities!

French Fry Museum — Bruges, Belgium

Americans might refer to them as French fries, but it’s the Belgians who really know how to make fantastic frites! Yep, there’s a museum in Belgium dedicated to the humble fried potato. Housed in the Saaihalle and considered “one of the most beautiful buildings” in the medieval city of Bruges, the Frietmuseum shares with the world the fascinating history of “the potato and fries and the different condiments with which they are habitually served.” (Pro Tip: The Belgians prefer mayonnaise.) 

International Toilet Museum — New Delhi

Seriously. A visit to the Sulabh International Toilet Museum is a chance to view a “rare collection of facts, pictures and objects detailing the historic evolution of toilets” from 2500 BCE to the present day. Although the humble toilet may seem mundane and even unmentionable for most, it’s hard to imagine a world without toilets. And you can totally realize that at this location in India, while admiring this fun and fascinating compilation of facts about water closets and how humankind barely managed to live decent lives without them. 

International Towing Museum — Chattanooga

Probably one of the most unexpected museums ever, The International Towing and Recovery Hall of Fame and Museum, built in 1986, has been recognizing individuals who have made substantial contributions to the “towing and recovery industry” since its founding. Created to honor the roots of this profession, the museum even has a memorial “Wall of the Fallen” in tribute to towing professionals who died in the line of service.

Ventriloquism Museum — Fort Mitchell, Kentucky

An interesting museum located in Fort Mitchell, the Vent Haven Museum is dedicated to the noble art of ventriloquism. It features over 900 dummies, puppets, photos, scripts, and other items that document the history of this fascinating profession. The museum is open from the first of May until the end of September. During the winter months it’s closed due to renovations and other necessary upkeep. It’s operated on an appointment-only basis and typically requires at least a 48-hour notice. Visitors can join guided tours that last anywhere from 45 to 90 minutes.

Clown Hall of Fame — Baraboo, Wisconsin

The International Clown Hall of Fame and Research Center is an exciting and adventurous living museum that was created to both preserve the history and help the advancement of the culture embraced by these lovable artists. The museum features live clowns to interact with, as well as costumes, photos, and other items commemorating many clowns throughout the years. It’s open year round, except for summer months, although you will need an appointment first to explore this fascinating destination.

Underwater Museum of Art —Cancún

The Underwater Museum of Art is one of the most popular destinations for those visiting the Caribbean paradise that is Cancún. The exciting art exhibit features over 500 underwater sculptures in two separate underwater galleries. Located at two to four meters underwater, The Punta Nizuc exhibit is home to 33 sculptures. The Punta Sur Isla Mujeres exhibit is home to 473 sculptures and is located in waters that are eight to ten meters deep, so scuba diving is required. Both exhibits can also be viewed via glass bottom boat tours which usually run all year round. Keep in mind that some scuba diving experience and certifications are required to make the most out of these tours.

You may also like: 10 Quirky International Museums You Should Visit

Cup Noodles Museum — Yokohama, Japan

The Cup Noodles Museum is one of Japan’s most unusual interactive museums. Birthplace of the original Chicken Ramen Noodles, the museum allows visitors to prepare their own noodles, custom design their own packaging, and sample products that are usually only available in selected geographical areas. Prepare to learn everything you need to know about the history of this delicious dish and how it became a global success. The museum is open daily, except Tuesdays and holidays. Admission is free, although some exhibits do require a fee.

Fluorescent Light Museum — Amsterdam

We’re sure that you when you booked those cheap flights to Amsterdam you didn’t know that you’d be visiting a quirky art destination devoted to florescent lights. But here we are! The Electric Ladyland Phosphorescence Museum allows visitors to become part of the art exhibit. The site features a large collection of florescent minerals and includes live demonstrations. The exhibit is open Wednesdays through Saturdays from 2 pm to 6 pm, and it requires an appointment.

Did we leave your favorite quirky museum off our list? Tell us about it in the comments below!