This Giant Minnesota Roadside Icon Is Now One of America’s Best

Road tripping around Minnesota can be a blast, from the vast change of scenery from one end of the state to the other, to the variety of fun, beautiful, and sometimes odd roadside attractions.

Roadside attractions are a very American thing, and the Midwest is home to some iconic ones, from Wall Drug to this Northern Minnesota attraction that has been posing for photos for generations.

READ MORE: Wisconsin Among The Best States For Surviving A UFO Invasion

USA Today’s “10Best” Competition - Midwest Roadside Icons

USA Today is asking the public to help vote for their ongoing “10Best” series, where 20 or so handpicked nominees battle for the title of the BEST in America, or at the very least, a spot in the Top 10.

Get our free mobile app

Right now, USA Today is looking to find the “Best Roadside Attraction” in America, and Minnesota's nominee comes with a long and iconic history.

The Story Behind Paul and Babe - Minnesota’s Legendary Entry

Built and unveiled in 1937 as part of a Winter Carnival celebration, the Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox statues in Bemidji, Minnesota tower over onlookers as they stand guard on the shore of Lake Bemidji.

This isn’t the first time this Minnesota roadside attraction has earned national attention. In the 1940s, the Eastman Kodak Company named the pair the “second most photographed icon,” just behind Mount Rushmore.

In 1988, the statues were officially recognized for their historical significance when they were added to the National Register of Historic Places. Originally built to attract tourists, they still serve that purpose nearly 90 years later.

Cast Your Vote Now

Help make Paul and Babe number one! You can vote here until Monday, May 5. The Top 10 list will be revealed on Wednesday, May 14.