Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum: St. Augustine, Florida
I was visiting the historic town of St. Augustine, Florida when I learned that there was a Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum nearby. I’ve watched the television show countless times and was always fascinated by some of the things people have done or the record-breaking experiences that they have had.
The significant part is, these people were willing to share their bizarre or weird experiences that earned them a spot in Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum. Therefore, my next trip led me to explore this eccentric museum.
Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum is housed in a three-level historic castle with over 800 strange exhibits and artifacts to see! There is a combination of Robert Ripley’s original pieces and newer interactive ones as well.
The big question is, “What types of things will you see at the museum?”
The world’s biggest clam, shrunken human heads and of course a headless chicken. There stands the world’s tallest man, a car part pirate, a giant Ferris wheel are also in this building. Then of course there are original bars, radios, a pirate shooting gallery, a mummified cat and a spinning vortex. There was also a motorcycle made out of bones and a wide assortment of sculptures made from a variety of things.
In addition to the exhibits, bizarre videos were featuring the way of life for some cultures which included hunting, cooking and eating tarantulas wrapped in a banana leaf.
Ripley’s Believe It or Not was founded by Robert Ripley. There is a collection of 30,000 artifacts, 100,000 cartoon panels and 20,000 photographs. The franchise features unusual items and bizarre events that occurred around the world. The museum is a permanent attraction at Castle Warden in St. Augustine, Florida. It opened in 1950, a year after Robert Ripley passed away.
Although it is entertaining to watch the Ripley’s Believe It or Not shows on television, it is more fun to see the exhibits in person. I had a fabulous time at this museum!
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Hey Africah! I used to love watching Ripley’s Believe It Or Not. Didn’t know there was a museum though. Next time I’m in Florida I’ll check it out. Thanks for letting me know.
Haldor