Ripley’s Believe It or Not

St. Augustine, Florida: Creepy but interesting is the best way to describe the collections found at Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum in downtown St. Augustine. Within the walls of the castle is the rare collection consisting of a shrunken head, trophy mask, mummified cat and many more unusual specimens.

The items are part of the personal collection of cartoonist Robert Ripley. His collection was first seen by the public during the Chicago World’s Fair of 1933. Afterwards, his collection traveled the country for fairs throughout the country. Following his death, the first permanent museum opened in St. Augustine in 1950. The St. Augustine museum is the oldest of the Ripley franchise which has now grown to over 30 museums worldwide.

The exhibits are located on three floors of the castle. As you travel room to room, you will see over 800 exhibits on display. A few of the popular ones include a shrunken head, Egyptian Mummified Cat, Pirates, Peel Car, Largest Erector Set, Odd Animals including a two headed rabbit, Odd People like the world’s tallest, largest, skinniest and much more await you at the museum.

The museum is housed in the historic Warden Castle. The castle itself has an extensive history and is just as much of an attraction as the museum. Built in 1887 at the winter residence of William Warden, it was later turned into a hotel in 1941 and then became the Ripley’s museum in 1950.

In addition to the museum, Ripley’s also operates a sightseeing train and Ghost Train Adventure in St. Augustine.

Click on the photo above to view photos from the Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum.

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