7 Unique Museums in the World That You Must Visit

For travelers with a passion for history, art, science, or the plain bizarre, museums are often an essential stop in any new city. But beyond the classic art and history museums, there are countless unique institutions worldwide that showcase extraordinary collections, quirky themes, and sometimes even downright weird exhibits. If you’re a museum enthusiast or just a curious traveler looking to broaden your cultural horizons, here are seven unique museums around the world that should definitely be on your bucket list.

1. Museum of Bad Art (MOBA) - Dedham, Massachusetts, USA

Located in the basement of a theater in Dedham, Massachusetts, the Museum of Bad Art (MOBA) is a celebration of art that didn't quite hit the mark. Founded with the philosophy of appreciating art in all forms, this museum showcases "art too bad to be ignored." MOBA has an eclectic collection of paintings, sculptures, and drawings with humorous curatorial notes that celebrate the beauty in artistic missteps. With rotating exhibits and some pieces becoming iconic in their own right, MOBA is a testament to the idea that art doesn’t have to be perfect to be meaningful—or entertaining.

2. Cancun Underwater Museum - Cancun, Mexico

The Cancun Underwater Museum (MUSA) is an otherworldly experience that combines art with marine conservation. Situated off the coast of Cancun, this museum displays hundreds of life-sized sculptures submerged beneath the ocean's surface. Created by artist Jason deCaires Taylor, each sculpture doubles as an artificial reef, encouraging coral growth and providing habitat for marine life. Visitors can explore the museum by snorkeling, diving, or taking a glass-bottom boat tour, offering a surreal experience of art blending with nature.

3. Sulabh International Museum of Toilets - New Delhi, India

An educational journey through the history of toilets might not be on everyone's travel list, but the Sulabh International Museum of Toilets provides a fascinating and humorous look into sanitation’s past, present, and future. Established by Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak, a pioneer in sanitation reform, the museum showcases a wide range of toilets dating back to 2500 BC, including examples from ancient Roman, Greek, and Medieval eras. Through its exhibits, the museum highlights the role toilets play in public health, sanitation, and cultural development, making it both enlightening and amusing.

4. The Museum of Broken Relationships - Zagreb, Croatia

In the heart of Zagreb, the Museum of Broken Relationships is dedicated to failed relationships and the emotional artifacts they leave behind. This unusual museum displays personal items donated by people from around the world, each accompanied by a short story detailing the role the item played in a broken relationship. The museum’s collection is constantly evolving, and the stories range from humorous to heartbreaking, giving visitors a unique glimpse into the human experience of love and loss.

5. The Dog Collar Museum - Leeds Castle, Kent, England

Leeds Castle in Kent, England, is home to a one-of-a-kind Dog Collar Museum. This small but charming museum displays over 100 historic dog collars dating back to the 15th century, showing how canine fashion and function have evolved. The collars range from elaborate iron designs meant to protect medieval hunting dogs from wolves and bears to more decorative pieces from Victorian times. It’s a fascinating peek into the relationship between humans and their loyal companions throughout history.

6. Icelandic Phallological Museum - Reykjavik, Iceland

If you're looking for something truly unusual, the Icelandic Phallological Museum, or the "Penis Museum," in Reykjavik might fit the bill. This museum claims to have the world's largest collection of phallic specimens, including over 200 penises and penile parts from various animals. From whales to hamsters, the exhibits provide a comprehensive (and sometimes comedic) look at anatomy and species diversity. The museum even has human donations, showcasing its dedication to the topic. It’s certainly one of the more unique museum experiences out there!

7. The Momofuku Ando Instant Ramen Museum - Osaka, Japan

Fans of ramen will love the Momofuku Ando Instant Ramen Museum in Osaka. Dedicated to the inventor of instant noodles, Momofuku Ando, this museum is all about the story of ramen’s rise to global fame. Visitors can learn about the history and production of instant noodles, see noodle packaging from around the world, and even make their own instant noodles at the "My Cup Noodles Factory." It’s a fun, interactive experience for all ages and a delicious tribute to one of the world’s most popular convenience foods.

Final Thoughts

Each of these museums offers something unique, whether it’s a dive into an art form gone wrong, an underwater marvel, or a collection of curious cultural artifacts. While classic museums will always have their place, sometimes it’s these offbeat experiences that leave the most lasting impressions.

If you’re planning your next adventure and looking to add a bit of curiosity to your itinerary, consider one of these unusual museums for an experience you’ll likely never forget.