When someone says "museum," you might picture halls filled with ancient artifacts or famous paintings. But museums don’t always stick to the expected. All over the globe, there are quirky museums celebrating the odd, the surprising, and even the downright bizarre. These unique spots offer a fresh perspective on art, history, and culture while giving travelers great stories to share. From collections of food-themed exhibits to museums spotlighting everyday objects, these places prove that learning can be as fun as it is unusual. If you’re a travel enthusiast looking to spice up your next trip, these 10 quirky museums are worth adding to your bucket list.

1. Museum of Bad Art (MOBA) - U.S.A.

Art galleries are often filled with masterpieces, but the Museum of Bad Art in Massachusetts flips the script. Now located in Boston, the collection focuses on pieces that are wonderfully awful. From hilariously skewed portraits to questionable landscapes, every piece celebrates failed attempts at creativity. MOBA’s motto is simple yet charming: “Art too bad to be ignored.” It’s a playful reminder that not every painting or sculpture has to be perfect to be appreciated.

2. The Hair Museum - Turkey

The Hair Museum in Cappadocia, Turkey, is one of the oddest attractions you’ll find. Hidden beneath a pottery workshop, this museum began when a single visitor left a lock of her hair as a memento. Over time, thousands of women have contributed, creating a collection of over 16,000 locks of hair displayed on the walls. It’s part art piece and part human history, offering a unique and slightly eerie experience for visitors.

3. The Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum - U.S.A.

If you love tiny, unexpected collectibles, the Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, will delight you. This quirky museum houses over 20,000 pairs of salt and pepper shakers from around the globe, showcasing incredible variety in themes, materials, and designs. From tiny animal figurines to festive holiday sets, this cheerful collection highlights the surprisingly artistic side of seemingly ordinary objects. It’s a fun stop for art enthusiasts and those with an eye for the whimsical.

4. Parasitological Museum - Japan

If creepy-crawlies fascinate you, the Meguro Parasitological Museum in Tokyo might be your new favorite spot. Dedicated entirely to parasites, this museum showcases over 60,000 specimens, from tapeworms to roundworms. While that may sound horrifying, it’s surprisingly educational. Visitors can learn how tiny organisms impact our bodies and health. One highlight? A giant tapeworm that’s over 8 meters (26 feet) long! It’s more fascinating than you’d imagine.

5. Cup Noodles Museum - Japan

Japan knows how to make food fun, and the Cup Noodles Museum in Yokohama proves it. This interactive experience celebrates the history and cultural influence of instant noodles. You can explore exhibits about Momofuku Ando, the inventor of instant ramen, and even design your custom cup noodles. The museum is quirky, tasty, and perfect for foodies or anyone who loves hands-on activities.

6. Sulabh International Museum of Toilets - India

Toilets might not sound like a hot topic, but this museum in New Delhi is surprisingly fascinating. It examines the evolution of sanitation over 4,500 years, with displays featuring antique chamber pots, bizarre urinals, and futuristic toilet designs. It’s not just about the past, though. The museum also highlights modern-day efforts to provide better sanitation in developing countries. Odd? Yes. But also enlightening.

7. Museum of Broken Relationships - Croatia

Located in the beautiful city of Zagreb, this museum explores heartbreak in a way that’s raw, emotional, and oddly comforting. The Museum of Broken Relationships showcases items left behind after breakups, from love letters to everyday trinkets. Each piece tells its own story of love lost, paired with written descriptions from the person who donated it. It’s a powerful reminder of how universal (and quirky) human emotions can be.

8. The Bunny Museum - U.S.A.

For a lighter and fluffier experience, visit the Bunny Museum in Pasadena, California. It holds the Guinness World Record for the largest bunny collection, with over 35,000 rabbit-themed items. From stuffed toys to bunny art and even live rabbits, this museum is a dream come true for animal lovers. The couple who runs it are known for their playful humor and dedication to all things bunny-related.

9. The Dog Collar Museum - U.K.

Housed on the grounds of Leeds Castle in Kent, England, the Dog Collar Museum spotlights centuries of canine history. This museum may sound niche, but it’s surprisingly engaging, with over 100 collars on display that date back to medieval times. Visitors can marvel at decorative Renaissance collars, practical leather versions designed for hunting dogs, and even jewel-encrusted pieces meant for royal pets. It’s a fascinating glimpse into how humans have loved and protected their four-legged friends over the years.

10. Museum of Witchcraft and Magic - U.K.

Over in Cornwall, England, you can step into a world of spells and sorcery. This museum dives into the history of witchcraft in Europe, featuring artifacts ranging from spell books to magical tools. Its exhibits reveal the practices, beliefs, and superstitions of witches from the past and present. Whether you’re a history buff or just curious about magic, it’s an enchanting stop for any traveler.

11. The Paris Sewer Museum - France

Ever wondered what's beneath the charming cobblestone streets of Paris? The Paris Sewer Museum offers a glimpse into the city's underground labyrinth of tunnels, pipes, and history. Located along the Seine, this quirky museum provides insight into the city's intricate sewage system, which dates back to the Middle Ages and still functions today. Visitors can walk through portions of the actual sewers, gaining a firsthand look at the engineering marvels that keep the "City of Light" clean and running smoothly. Along the way, you'll encounter exhibits about sanitation history, engineering innovations, and even surprising cultural tidbits. It’s a strange mix of history, science, and adventure but undeniably fascinating. Just don't forget to take a big breath of fresh air when you step back outside!

These unique museums might get a laugh or a side-eye, but they offer much more than novelty. They celebrate niche cultures, shine a light on little-known histories, and remind us not to take ourselves too seriously. Traveling should be about so much more than visiting landmarks or famous attractions. It’s about the stories and experiences that stick with you. Quirky museums make those moments unforgettable.

Next time you’re planning a trip, consider adding one of these offbeat spots to your itinerary. Because sometimes, the road less traveled leads to the most memorable destinations.