Superhero Souvenirs and Spuds: Uncovering America’s Quirkiest Museums

Everything has a history, no matter how niche or mundane it may seem. This means that almost everything also has its own dedicated museum to preserve and showcase this rich heritage. The roads of America offer plenty of evidence, including the Hall of Heroes Superhero Museum in Indiana devoted entirely to superhero worship. Founder John Osborne explains that comic books date back 80 years, with a corresponding 80-year history packed into their walls alongside decades’ worth of movie memorabilia from popular superhero movies and TV shows. Among the exhibits at this mecca for Marvel Comics fans is Chris Evans’ shield from Captain America: The First Avenger, Nicolas Cage’s custom chopper used in Ghost Rider, and Adam West’s Batman suit worn during publicity appearances. Other highlights include a kid-friendly arcade free with admission as well as around 75,000 comic books – including rare copies such as Wonder Woman #1 from 1942.
The National Museum of Mustard in Wisconsin celebrates the world’s largest collection of mustard jars and memorabilia totalling more than 6,00 items originating not just from all fifty US states but also over seventy countries worldwide. The museum is located at a monastery for barbers that has hosted the World-Wide Mustard Competition as well as their own annual festival marking National Mustard Day held each August the 3rd (2024). Admission to this quirky chronicle of coiffure culture in Middleton, Wisconsin is always free.
The Museum of Barbering & Grooming Arts offers a wealth of insight into New York’s history with barbershops and their artistry as well as education for future generations on the rich legacy that has been forgotten over time. Founder Arthur Rubinoff – a fourth-generation master barber himself – aims to give respect to all barbers while educating visitors about this fascinating industry which dates back centuries, in operation at the Upper East Side location even today.
Idaho’s love affair with potatoes is proudly displayed via their own Idaho Potato Museum located inside a restored railway station near Craters of the Moon National Monument. The museum boasts an impressive collection that includes everything from vintage potato farming equipment to information on the world’s largest vegetable: A Pringles brand 23-inch long, 14.5-inch wide chip produced in 1990 and currently housed at this quirky institution.
Spam fans can learn all about their beloved tinned meat via a visit to Austin, Minnesota’s Spam Museum since the company first started manufacturing it back in 1937. Exhibits cover everything from packaging changes over time through its role during World War II and an internationally renowned section detailing how far-reaching cultural influence this iconic food item has had throughout history. Friendly “Spambassadors” are always available to help guests make the most out of their museum visit with plenty interactive displays tailored specifically for children as well!