Quirky, unexpected, and full of character, Kokomo is home to larger-than-life stops that are worth a visit. Take a detour, explore these quirky landmarks, and experience a side of Kokomo you won’t find anywhere else!

1. Old Ben – The World’s Largest Steer

At Highland Park, Old Ben still draws attention more than a century after his rise to fame. Born in 1902, this massive steer grew at an astonishing rate, eventually tipping the scales at well over 2 tons at the time of his death in 1910. He toured fairs across Indiana and even earned a spot in “Ripley’s Believe It or Not.” 

2. Giant Sycamore Stump

Estimated to be up to 1,500 years old, the Sycamore Stump once stood along the Wildcat Creek and reached 100 feet tall before storms reduced it to a hollow, 12-foot stump. Seeking to preserve this enormous relic of the county’s pioneer period, crews undertook a carefully orchestrated effort in 1916 to move the stump to Highland Park. It now shares a pavilion with Old Ben, offering another glimpse into the region’s early landscape.

3. KokoMantis

Towering over the intersection of Sycamore and Washington streets in downtown Kokomo, this piece of public art is pretty hard to miss. This 17-foot-tall, 22-foot-long praying mantis sculpture is built from recycled materials like World War II fuel pontoons and traffic light poles. Painted a striking electric green, its towering presence is perfect for humorous Kodak moments.

4. Willie the Whale

A Hoosier landmark since 1964, you can now find Willie the Whale along the Wildcat Creek Walk of Excellence in Foster Park. Visitors can enter his hollow mouth to see photos and learn about his past stops at a miniature golf course, a zoo, and a water park.

5. Haynes Art & Photo Car



Maybe not as strange, but definitely in the Top 5 is the 1894 replica Haynes Art & Photo Car found in downtown Kokomo’s Artist Alley. Built in 2010 by Duane Johnson and Vernon Graves, this sculpture is an art replica of “America’s First Car” invented by former Kokomo resident Elwood Haynes. Hop in the car and snap a pic!