Sometimes museums toe the line between outrageous, cultural phenomena and whatever will make Insta-worthy posts. Whether you decide to put these on your must-do list or are just stopping by, these museums are sure to be a highlight.
Sure, Iceland has its Vikings and its puffins … but it also has the Icelandic Phallological Museum, commonly called The Penis Museum, to boot. Size certainly does matter here, and visitors are encouraged to compare and contrast six specimens belonging to 17 different kinds of whale, one from a polar bear, 36 specimens from seven kinds of seals and walrus, and more than 100 specimens from land mammals.
The Hair Museum in Avanos, Turkey, a small town in the Cappodocian area, isn’t geared toward the bouffant or feathered bangs, but instead toward the practice of giving a lock of hair to remember one by — an estimated 16,000 women have done so, as a matter of fact. The pottery center and guest house has been open as a Guinness Book of World Records-listed hair museum since 1979; visitors wander to the cave-like room with “specimens,” started with a donation by a friend of the potter, who said she wanted to leave a reminder of her stay.

Museum of Broken Relationships in Zagreb, Croatia. Photo: Rajko Simunovic – Dreamstime.com
Sanitation activist Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak says he started the International Museum of Toilets in Delhi to spotlight his country’s need for better plumbing practices, but most of the headlines have gone toward silver and gold toilet pots used by Roman emperors, a reproduction of one used by King Louis XIV, and an exhibit detailing the evolution of the urinal.
One of the most important factors for inclusion at the Museum of Bad Art is the work or sculpture must not be boring. And there’s plenty of tongue-wagging pieces to discuss at its location at Somerville Theatre in Somerville, Massachusetts, the hipster city adjoining Boston. In fact, getting there is cheeky and a metaphor — it’s on the way to the restrooms in the basement. From landscapes to pet portraits and “noods” (nudes), there’s plenty here that seems like it compiled the best of the best from local yard sales. Who needs popcorn?
The Museum of Broken Relationships was born when its founders … you guessed it, broke up. Olinka Vištica and Dražen Grubišić called it quits in 2006 but were wondering what to do with a token of their time together — a unique wind-up toy. And thus, the museum of heartbreak and angst was born in beautiful Zagreb, Croatia (with another outpost now in Los Angeles). Completely crowdsourced, objets d’art include old cell phones and clothes, of course, but also items as unique as garden gnomes.
Read This Next
5 Family-Friendly Museums in Charleston
Destinations / North America
Aug 22, 2024#WhereverFamily
Insta FeedDestinations / North America
Feb 11, 2025National Civil Rights Museum Announces Acquisition of Collection, Opening of Exhibition
A powerful new exhibit is coming to National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel for family travelers to Memphis. The museum has acquired the archive of Bayard Rustin, a pivotal figure in the Civil Rights Museum and an advocate for non-violence, human rights and equality. To honor the collection, the Speaking Truth to Power: The Life of Bayard Rustin exhibit opens March 28, for eight months, in the State of Tennessee Gallery.
Sponsored Content
Madrid: A Destination for All Ages
However one is traveling, what matters is having fun and creating unforgettable memories. Among many ways to travel, multigenerational trips — on which grandparents, parents and children get to spend quality time together — are gaining popularity. Setting out on this sort of adventure? Madrid has something to offer everyone!
Hotels
Feb 11, 2025Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay Debuts Winter Getaway Experience
Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay Golf Resort, Spa and Marina, a stunning waterfront resort on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, announced a winter getaway experience for family travelers planning some last-minute fun in the cold. With this new promotion, guests can participate in the resort’s top winter experiences.
Destinations / North America
Feb 10, 2025Beverly Hills Offers Attainable Luxury for Families
Family travelers to California’s Southland are often overwhelmed by one major issue: Where to stay? Let’s face it, the options are legion. You can stay near the beach for the quintessential SoCal experience, head to Hollywood for an entertainment-heavy stay or book a room downtown for a trendy experience. While each location has something unique to offer, one beautiful destination is ideally located so you can visit all of these Los Angeles areas while enjoying a life of luxury during your stay.
Sponsored Content
Discover the Magic of East Crete: A Perfect Family Getaway
East Crete is a blend of stunning landscapes, history and charming towns, making it an ideal family destination. Far from the crowds of the west, the region offers pristine beaches, ancient sites and authentic Cretan villages.
Destinations / North America
Feb 10, 2025Frost-Free Winter Outdoor Adventures in Mississippi
Travel with your family to Mississippi for frost-free outdoor adventure. Beat the winter blues by exploring Mississippi’s diverse landscapes in mild spring temperatures.
ShareThis