Lucy the Elephant, a prominent roadside attraction in Margate, New Jersey, has been named America’s No. 1 Best Roadside Attraction by USA Today editors and readers for the second consecutive year. This recognition places Lucy ahead of nine other unique cultural landmarks across the United States.
The Save Lucy Committee, a nonprofit organization responsible for operating this historic site, expressed their gratitude: “Thank you so much to everyone who shared information about the contest and took the time to vote,” they stated. “We’re over the moon with excitement and gratitude.”
Constructed in 1881 by a real estate developer as a marketing tool to attract land buyers near Atlantic City, Lucy stands as the nation’s oldest roadside attraction. Visitors initially accessed her via train and climbed 130 steps inside her leg to reach a vantage point on her back, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Over time, Lucy served various purposes including as a restaurant and tavern. By the 1960s, she faced demolition due to disrepair. The Margate Civic Association, which evolved into the Save Lucy Committee, relocated her approximately 100 yards to city-owned land near the beach and initiated restoration efforts. In 1974, Lucy reopened to visitors and was designated a National Historic Landmark two years later during America’s bicentennial celebrations.
The rankings released on May 14 also include attractions such as “Wheat Jesus” billboard in Kansas and Dinosaur Gardens in Minnesota among others.
