There are over 500,000 museums worldwide, and each of them has its own secrets and surprises to uncover. But sometimes, you want something that’s a bit off the beaten path, or a place that offers works that you’ve never interacted with before. With that in mind, here are some of the world’s most unique museums to add to your bucket list.
Mexico – Cancun Underwater Museum of Art
The world’s largest underwater museum is a magical paradise, tucked between Cancun and Isla Mujeres. The museum contains over 500 sculptures, most of which were created by Jason deCaires Taylor, though there are a few pieces by locals as well. The museum is a great destination for divers, which helps preserve the nearby coral reef and its ecosystem. You can take either snorkeling or scuba diving tours.
Holland – Micropia
One of the latest additions to Amsterdam’s Royal Zoo, Micropia features a huge collection of images of microbes – from viruses to vaccines, the museum aims to foster a more positive view of microbes and the role that they play in our world. It’s the only museum of its kind in the world, and it’s perfect for science nerds and art enthusiasts alike.
USA – International Spy Museum
If you’re fascinated by spy movies and tales of espionage, then this is the destination for you. The International Spy Museum aims to give visitors a glimpse into a world that’s usually shrouded in mystery. It hosts the largest collection of espionage-related artifacts in the world, including lipstick pistols used by female KGB agents during the Cold War and the Aston Martin DB5 that was featured in Goldfinger.
United Kingdom – The Dog Collar Museum
Dog lovers, put this one on your bucket list. This quirky little gem is tucked away inside Leeds Castle, and it’s devoted to rare and valuable dog collars from all eras. The exhibition began as a tribute to John Hunt, a historian who collected a wide variety of items with his wife, Gertrude. According to Gertrude, dog collars were their favorite collection.