Ripley’s Believe It or Not! in Blackpool is a museum of oddities and curiosities that promises an intriguing experience for visitors. Located near Pleasure Beach, this attraction is part of the global chain founded by Robert Ripley, who travelled the world collecting unusual artefacts, strange stories and rare exhibits. The Blackpool venue, one of several Ripley’s museums worldwide, offers a blend of entertainment and education through its eclectic collection of oddities.
The origins of Ripley’s Believe It or Not! date back to the early 20th century when Robert Ripley, an American cartoonist, adventurer and amateur anthropologist, began showcasing his discoveries in a newspaper column. His work quickly gained popularity, leading to the creation of radio shows, books and eventually the first Ripley’s Odditorium, which opened in 1933 for the Chicago World’s Fair.
The Blackpool branch of Ripley’s Believe It or Not! opened its doors in the late 20th century, bringing Ripley’s unique vision to the British public. The attraction has since become a staple of Blackpool’s tourism scene, offering a different kind of museum experience. It reflects a fascination with the unusual and the bizarre, catering to visitors who are interested in the stranger aspects of history, science and human achievement.
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What to see at Ripley’s Believe It or Not!
Ripley’s Believe It or Not! houses over 300 exhibits spread across multiple themed galleries. Each gallery features a variety of displays, ranging from the bizarre and the unusual to the outright shocking. Visitors can explore artefacts from around the world, including shrunken heads, rare animal skeletons and peculiar artworks made from unexpected materials.
One of the main attractions is the collection of interactive exhibits that encourage visitors to engage with the displays. These may include optical illusions, brain teasers, and hands-on experiments that challenge perceptions and encourage curiosity. The museum also features a section dedicated to Robert Ripley’s life and his adventures, providing context for the exhibits and explaining how they were collected.
The Blackpool location also showcases some exhibits unique to the UK, such as a model of the world’s tallest man and a replica of the famous Tower Bridge made entirely of matchsticks. Another notable exhibit is the Mirror Maze.
Visiting Ripley’s Believe It or Not!
Ripley’s Believe It or Not! is located near Blackpool Pleasure Beach.
The attraction is typically open daily, with extended hours during peak tourist seasons such as summer and school holidays.
Although attempts are made to accommodate visitors with disabilities, its location inside a historic building means that only the ground floor is wheelchair accessible.
Visitor facilities include a gift shop offering a range of souvenirs related to the exhibits, including books, toys, and novelty items.
Allow 1–2 hours for your visit, although some visitors report that they have been able to see the entire attraction in under half an hour.
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