If you’ve ever pulled over for a photo op of a Muffler Man or detoured to get a glimpse of the world’s largest steer, then you must plan a visit to Casey, Illinois. Fair warning: You won’t get away with just a quick stop in Casey. You’ll want to spend several hours there, maybe even all day. You see, Casey is home to the world’s largest wind chime, rocking chair, mailbox, and nine more sculptures that have made it into the Guinness Book of World Records.

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But that’s not all…

Besides the 12 “world’s largest” attractions, the small East Central Illinois town along the National Road boasts 17 more oversized items: a 32-foot long yard stick, birdcage, pencil, and mouse trap, to name a few. And they continue to add more.

How “Big Things Small Town” started

Local businessman Jim Bolin came up with the idea of the giant wind chime as a way to attract people off of nearby Interstate 70 to the small town of Casey. According to Guinness World Records, the wind chime measures 42 feet, and the five metal tubes suspend 49 feet from the ground.

After finishing the windchime, Jim continued to add sculptures, mostly made from recycled materials from his family’s pipeline and tank maintenance business.

Several “Big Things” are interactive

What makes the Casey experience even more fun is the interactive attractions. Pull the rope on the wind chime to make it work. Step into the birdcage and swing on the perch. Climb the stairs into the giant mailbox. Or get “trapped in Casey” in the giant mousetrap.

If you visit Casey, Illinois

• Most of the giant attractions are within walking distance in Casey’s downtown area. Free parking is plentiful in lots and along the streets. The outdoor attractions are accessible 24/7. Some are inside shops, however, so can be viewed only during business hours.
• You’ll need a car (or rent a golf cart) to view the few attractions located away from the downtown area.
• To be sure you don’t miss any of the attractions, you can check them off this list as you see them.

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