Easily overlooked in favor of the wineries that dot the region, this blast from the past is equally worth the visit.

This observatory comes complete with three separate telescopes and a dedicated community of amateur and expert astronomers.

This tree was warped centuries ago to serve as a botanical wayfaring tool.

Moving, mind-blowing metal sculpture work of an outsider artist.

Locals often dress this effigy of Traverse City's founder in festive outfits.

Though its branches are painted bright colors by generations of locals, the tree is said to be a haunted portal to hell.

This enchanting forest trail leads to ethereal abodes and a giant bird's nest.

With over 5,000 champions, the Hall of Fame continues to draw amateur eaters.

This historic Illinois "Muffler Man" has been converted from axe-touting lumberjack to rocket-wielding space ace.

This enormous fish commemorates the unplanned release of brown trout into a Michigan river.

The only Bahá'í house of worship in North America and one of only a handful worldwide.

House built with over 60,000 glass bottles.

Half-sized replica of the Leaning Tower of Pisa built to honor Galileo.

This botanical garden outside Chicago boasts an array of more than 300 varieties of lilacs.

Recognized the world over as the home of the McCallisters in the 1990 movie "Home Alone."

Arguably the best example of an authentic Dutch windmill in the United States, rivaling its counterparts in the Netherlands.

This elaborate Hindu temple is located in a Chicago suburb, but looks like it was transported directly from India.

The restored ferry is now a dockside museum and a unique bed and breakfast.

A onetime gangsters' hideaway where you can dine on steaks, fine wines, and cigars just like they once did.

A warning to the weak-kneed: This narrow bridge does its swinging eight stories high.

A half-mile long and three stories high, this bridge over the Des Moines River Valley mimics a descent into a mine shaft.

Home of St. Urho, the fictional patron saint of Finland.

Elaborate drama imparts an appreciation for 19th century hardships.

Summer in the "Turtle Racing Capital of the World" means rousing weekly reptile races.