If you’ve ever dreamed of taking an unforgettable road trip filled with nostalgia, roadside oddities, and perfect photo ops, the giant statues of Route 66 are must-see stops! These oversized figures — from Muffler Men to space cowboys — have been greeting travelers for decades and keep the spirit of the Mother Road alive.

Below, I’ve rounded up some of the coolest giant statues you’ll spot as you cruise this legendary highway.

One of the more unusual and slightly rebellious giants on Route 66 is the Cigar Muffler Man, perched proudly atop Cigars & Stripes BBQ Lounge  6715 Ogden Ave in Berwyn, Illinois. This weathered fiberglass figure stands above the bar’s entrance, holding what appears to be a cigar in his hand — a nod to the lounge’s name and vibe. Unlike the more traditional Muffler Men who often hold tires, flags, or tools, this guy’s cool, laid-back stance makes him one of the more unique and memorable stops along the Illinois stretch of the Mother Road.

The Gemini Giant is one of the most beloved Route 66 icons. Standing over 30 feet tall, this fiberglass astronaut has been watching over travelers since the 1960s. Originally guarding The Launching Pad diner, the statue now stands proudly at South Island Park at 201 Bridge Street. Don’t miss the chance to snap a photo with his green suit and silver rocket — it’s an Instagram classic!

If you’re craving both a sweet treat and a quirky photo op, Carl’s Ice Cream in Normal, Illinois, has you covered—literally—with a giant! The 14-foot-tall figure known as Carl the Giant has been welcoming visitors since 2016 and stands proudly at the 1700West College Avenue location. But the story goes back even further. The site originally served as a Cities Service gas station in the 1930s, later becoming a Mr. Softee in the ’60s. When Carl Garbe took over in 1980, he and his wife Betty turned it into the beloved local ice cream shop we know today—famous for being the only place in the Bloomington/Normal area that makes its own premium hard ice cream. Carl the Giant has become a favorite roadside attraction, making this spot a must-visit for both ice cream lovers and Route 66 adventurers.

Don’t let its size fool you — Atlanta, Illinois is a giant when it comes to roadside attractions! This small town is home to not one, but several towering fiberglass figures, making it a must-stop destination on your Route 66 journey. You’ll find Tall Paul holding his famous hot dog, the new Lumi Giant proudly serving up a slice of pie, and the American Giants Museum showcasing a collection of classic Muffler Men and vintage advertising giants. Atlanta has fully embraced its larger-than-life legacy, and it’s the perfect place to stretch your legs, grab a bite, and snap some unforgettable photos with these towering roadside legends.

Atlanta, Illinois, is home to “Tall Paul,” a legendary Muffler Man with a twist — he’s clutching a giant hot dog! At 19 feet tall, this Paul Bunyon figure stands on Arch Street, right across from the charming Palms Grill Café. He’s been a roadside favorite since the days when big statues were used to attract drivers to local diners and shops.

Not far from Tall Paul is Atlanta’s newest big friend: the Lumi Giant. Unveiled in August 2024 at the Country-Aire Restaurant (608 E South St), this 19-foot waitress holds a delicious-looking pie — a nod to the restaurant’s award-winning desserts. It’s the perfect stop for both a slice of pie and a larger-than-life selfie

While Mortimer Snerd doesn’t hold a tool or hot dog like his Muffler Man cousins, his oversized head, bugged-out eyes, and wide grin have earned him a spot as one of the most recognizable and memorable fiberglass figures in the country. Today, you can find him on display in Atlanta, Illinois, right alongside the town’s other beloved giants and at the American Giants Museum, where he adds a dose of comedy to the collection.

Doesn’t he remind you of someone from you childhood ?  Ah — yes! Now that you mention it, Mortimer Snerd totally has a vibe that’s eerily similar to Alfred E. Neuman, the iconic face of Mad Magazine. That wide, toothy grin, the slightly crossed eyes, and the general “what, me worry?” energy — it’s hard not to make the connection.

If you want to see a whole collection of these roadside titans, the new American Giants Museum in Atlanta, Illinois, is a dream come true. Opened Memorial Day weekend 2024, this outdoor museum showcases Muffler Men of all shapes and sizes — from Vikings and cowboys to the Texaco Big Friend and Snerd the Clown. Find it at Arch & Vine Street and prepare to be wowed.

Want to meet these giants in person? The American Giants Museum, located at the corner of Arch & Vine Streets on historic Route 66 in downtown Atlanta, Illinois, is open Tuesday 1 PM–4 PM, Wednesday–Saturday 10 AM–4 PM, and Sunday 1 PM–4 PM during the April–September season, with Mondays closed  Admission is free, and there’s plenty of free parking available nearby American Giants Museum. For the most current hours, special events, and updates—especially outside the main season—check their official website at AmericanGiantsMuseum.com or contact them directly via phone or email

Springfield is a hot spot for Route 66 giants! The Lauterbach Giant stands proudly at Lauterbach Tire & Auto (1569 Wabash Ave). Originally holding a tire, this Muffler Man now waves a giant American flag and is decked out in patriotic colors. He’s been a local landmark since the 1970s — and a cheerful greeter for anyone driving by.

Nearby, you’ll find Big Ron standing under a massive Route 66 shield at Route 66 Motorheads Bar & Grill. This huge sign — a whopping 32 by 32 feet — was installed in 2024 to celebrate the road’s legacy. It’s located at 600 Toronto Road, right off I-55 Exit 90. Grab a burger, snap some photos, and soak up the retro car memorabilia inside too.

No Route 66 adventure through Illinois is complete without a stop at the wonderfully weird and wildly fun Pink Elephant Antique Mall in Livingston, IL. This place is so much more than an antique store — it’s a full-blown roadside spectacle! The massive pink elephant statue out front is just the beginning. As you explore the property, you’ll spot a giant ice cream cone, a Uniroyal Gal, a Humpty Dumpty, a spaceship, and even a muffler man — all perfect for quirky photo ops and pure retro charm.

Adding a bit of biker flair to the Route 66 giant lineup is the Harley-Davidson Muffler Man in Springfield, Missouri. This towering fiberglass figure proudly sports a black leather vest, sunglasses, jeans, and boots — the classic biker look — and he even holds a custom Harley-Davidson sign. With arms crossed and an unmistakably cool attitude, this modern take on the traditional Muffler Man is a favorite stop for motorcycle enthusiasts and fans of roadside kitsch alike.

You can’t drive Route 66 through Missouri without making a hilarious detour to the one-and-only Uranus — and no, we’re not kidding! One of the most talked-about roadside stops on the Mother Road, Uranus, Missouri, is home to an outrageous collection of photo ops, novelty shops, and offbeat attractions. And standing tall among them is the Maga Mayor, a larger-than-life fiberglass statue of Uranus’ self-proclaimed mayor.

This towering figure, decked out in a red, white, and blue astronaut-style suit, salutes visitors as they enter the Uranus complex. He’s a parody, a character, and a roadside giant all in one — and whether you love him, laugh at him, or scratch your head in confusion, he’s impossible to ignore. The statue is a fan favorite among travelers who appreciate a little weird with their road trip. Located at Uranus Fudge Factory & General Store, 14400 Highway Z Rt. Robert MO

Galena, Kansas may be a small town, but it packs a big punch when it comes to Route 66 charm — especially with its towering Big A Texaco Man watching over the road. This rare and impressive fiberglass figure is one of only a handful of Texaco Big Friends ever made. Created in the 1960s by International Fiberglass, the Big A was designed to promote Texaco service stations and welcome travelers with a wave and a friendly smile.

After decades of disappearance, this giant has been lovingly restored and now stands tall once again in Galena — making it one of the few places in the country where you can see a Texaco Big Friend in person. With his green uniform, Texaco star emblem, and towering height of over 20 feet, he’s a nostalgic tribute to the golden age of gas station service and a standout figure along the Mother Road. Located : Corner of Main Street & Front Street.

Just off Route 66 in Vinita, Oklahoma, the Hi-Way Café offers more than just a great meal — it’s also home to two impressive roadside giants that are must-see photo ops for anyone exploring the Mother Road.

First up is Big Bill, a towering Muffler Man dressed in classic roadside workwear, proudly standing watch over the café. With his friendly smile and welcoming stance, Big Bill is a modern tribute to the original fiberglass figures that once dotted highways across America.

Standing nearby is a striking Indian Chief Muffler Man, complete with a traditional headdress and stately presence. These two giants make the Hi-Way Café one of the most unique roadside attractions along Route 66 in Oklahoma — and one of the few places where you can see two Muffler Men in one stop!

The Hi-Way Café is a beloved Route 66 diner that serves up hearty comfort food and retro charm, making it the perfect place to refuel both your car and yourself. Be sure to snap a photo with both giants and grab a bite while soaking in the nostalgic atmosphere.

And here’s a fun bit of Route 66 news — I believe that the Chef Muffler Man from Springfield will soon be taking up residence here as well, joining Big Bill and the Indian Chief to make this trio of roadside giants even more unforgettable. Stay tuned! Located at : HiWay Cafe 437151 E Hwy 60

One of the newest additions to the Route 66 giant family is Buck Atom, a glittery space cowboy standing tall outside Buck Atom’s Cosmic Curios in Tulsa, Oklahoma. This 21-foot Muffler Man was custom-built in 2019 as a nod to classic roadside kitsch with a cosmic twist. Complete with a silver jetpack and space helmet, Buck Atom is a fan favorite and a symbol of Route 66’s enduring sense of fun and creativity. You’ll find him at 1347 E. 11th Street, right in the heart of Tulsa’s Route 66 corridor. While you’re there, be sure to explore the shop filled with retro souvenirs and cosmic treasures!

Meet Stella Atom, the dazzling Space Cowgirl Uniroyal Gal who brings serious retro-futuristic flair to Route 66 in Tulsa, Oklahoma. She’s the female counterpart to the famous Muffler Men, and she’s not your average roadside statue — Stella is a custom-built Uniroyal Gal, designed by artist Mark Cline and proudly displayed outside Buck Atom’s Cosmic Curios.

Standing tall in her cowgirl boots, hat, and space suit, Stella wields both a lasso and a ray gun, making her part western outlaw, part intergalactic sheriff. She’s the perfect partner to Buck Atom, the space cowboy Muffler Man who’s already a Tulsa Route 66 favorite. Together, they’re one of the most photogenic duos you’ll find along the entire Mother Road.

ust a short drive from Buck Atom and Stella the Space Cowgirl, you’ll find another Route 66 giant standing tall in Tulsa, Oklahoma — Meadow Gold Mack, a Paul Bunyan-style Muffler Man proudly positioned near the famous Meadow Gold neon sign.

Dressed in a red shirt and blue jeans, and sporting that classic lumberjack look, Mack is a traditional Muffler Man who brings vintage Americana vibes to this historic stretch of the Mother Road. He stands at the Tulsa Auto Museum, serving as a tribute not only to the roadside giants of yesteryear but also to the city’s deep connection to Route 66 history.

One of the most striking roadside figures along Route 66 is the Native American Muffler Man standing proudly outside the Indian Trading Post & Art in Calumet, Oklahoma. Originally located at the David Howe Auto dealership along the Mother Road, this statue found a new home in 2010. Dressed in a traditional headdress and standing tall with one hand raised toward the sky, this fiberglass figure is both a powerful tribute and a classic piece of roadside Americana. You’ll find it in the parking lot next to the trading post, where you can also browse Native American art, gifts, and Route 66 memorabilia.

Standing tall and unapologetically patriotic on the outskirts of Amarillo, Texas, the 2nd Amendment Cowboy is a modern Muffler Man-style giant with a bold message and a classic western flair. Dressed in a red shirt, blue jeans, and white cowboy hat, this towering figure waves the American flag and keeps watch over the Texas plains with his signature Old West stance.

You’ll find him right off I-40 and Route 66, near the famous Cadillac Ranch art installation. Originally installed to draw attention to the nearby 2nd Amendment Cowboy Firearms Store, the statue has become a roadside icon in its own right — whether you agree with the message or are just in it for the kitsch and photo op.

Gallup, New Mexico, is home to a classic cowboy-style Muffler Man affectionately known as Dude Man. This towering fiberglass figure stands tall in full Western attire — cowboy boots, hat, belt buckle, and all — bringing a bit of Old West flair to the Mother Road. Positioned near the historic El Rancho Hotel, this roadside cowboy has become a local icon and a fun surprise for travelers heading west on Route 66. Though his original purpose is long forgotten, Dude Man continues to wave to passersby with stoic charm and a photogenic pose that’s made him a favorite stop for road-trippers and retro fans alike.

If you’re a fan of Muffler Men and roadside history, Flagstaff, Arizona is where it all began. Standing tall since 1962, the Lumberjack Muffler Man #1 is believed to be the very first fiberglass giant of its kind — the prototype that launched a roadside revolution.

Created by Bob Prewitt of Prewitt Fiberglass Animals, this towering Paul Bunyan-style figure originally stood in front of the Lumberjack Café (formerly the Paul Bunyan Café) on Milton Road, welcoming hungry travelers along Route 66. He wore plaid, wielded an axe, and became an iconic roadside beacon in the golden age of car travel.

This early Muffler Man was such a cultural staple that he even made a cameo appearance in the 1969 counterculture classic Easy Rider — a cinematic nod to the roadside Americana that shaped the era.

Though the original Lumberjack Café is gone, the statue still stands proudly near Northern Arizona University, continuing to greet visitors and students alike. His legacy as the “first of the giants” makes him a must-see stop for any Route 66 road trip. Located Northern Arizona University Campus, S. Milton Rd  & E Butler Ave .

Nicknamed the “Statue of Liberty of Los Angeles,” Chicken Boy is one of the most unusual and beloved fiberglass giants along Route 66. Originally installed in 1969 on the roof of a local fried chicken restaurant, this unique statue is a customized Muffler Man — with a muscular man’s body and a giant chicken head. When the Chicken Boy restaurant closed in the 1980s and demolition loomed, artist Amy Inouye stepped in to rescue the statue. She lovingly stored it for years until 2007, when she finally gave it a permanent new perch atop a building she owns on historic Route 66 in L.A.

Today, Chicken Boy stands proudly once again, delighting both locals and road-trippers with his quirky charm and larger-than-life personality. He’s not just a statue — he’s a true pop culture icon and a must-see stop on the western end of Route 66.

Hidden among the bustling auto-glass district on Mission Road in Los Angeles, Sergio the Muffler Man quietly stands as one of Route 66’s lesser-known legends. Dating back to the 1960s, this classic fiberglass figure has watched over L.A.’s east side for decades, a stoic sentinel among body shops, repair garages, and muffler businesses.

Unlike some of the flashier roadside giants decked out in space suits or cowboy hats, Sergio keeps things simple — overalls, work boots, and a steely gaze. He may not be as polished as newer figures, but that’s part of his charm. He’s rugged, weathered, and proudly worn by time — just like the stretch of Route 66 he calls home.

While many Muffler Men have been restored, relocated, or repurposed, Sergio remains rooted in his spot on Mission Road, a quiet nod to the era when fiberglass giants ruled the roads and every corner seemed to have a personality.

From cowboys and space gals to lumberjacks and pink elephants, the giants of Route 66 are more than just fiberglass — they’re snapshots of American roadside history, each with its own quirky story and nostalgic charm. Whether you’re planning a full Route 66 road trip or just exploring a few key stretches, these towering figures are sure to bring smiles, spark conversations, and fill your camera roll.

I’ve shared many of my favorites here, but part of the fun is discovering your own — and trust me, there are still a few surprises waiting out there along the way. Be sure to check out the Roadside Attractions section on my website for even more weird and wonderful stops across the USA. And if you see a giant I missed — drop me a note, because this road trip never really ends. Happy travels!

For travelers eager to uncover hidden gems beyond the giants, the Roadside America app is a must-have companion. Packed with over 15,000 quirky attractions—everything from fiberglass giants and gravity hills to atomic cannons and giant chairs—it helps you discover must-see stops along your route or nearby your location .

The app’s “Near Me” feature automatically shows attractions within a 25‑point radius, while the “On Route” function lets you plot pickups targeted to your trip plan It’s free to download (US & Canada), with one region included at $2.99 and full access for $6.99 more; maps, directions, hours, reviews, and even user tips are right at your fingertips. Fans rave, saying it “directed us to a ton [of] cool/weird places” and that “the tips from other travelers are extremely helpful” Whether you’re cruising Route 66 or off-roading through the Midwest, this app ensures you never miss a hidden roadside wonder! Roadside America.

 These roadside giants are more than just kitschy photo ops; they’re living pieces of Route 66’s quirky Americana charm. Each statue has a story, and seeing them up close connects you to a fun chapter of road trip history.

Whether you’re planning your first Mother Road adventure or adding new stops to your Route 66 bucket list, keep your eyes peeled for these friendly fiberglass titans. Happy travels!

If you enjoy learning about these giants and other roadside attractions, be sure to check out the special section dedicated to roadside attractions in the USA right here on my website — it’s the perfect place to plan your next offbeat adventure!