Fremont Troll, Seattle (must see)

When you reach the dark, shadowy space where the Aurora Bridge meets the ground look to the left. Here lurks the Fremont Troll, an 18-foot-tall steel and concrete figure busily munching on a Volkswagen Beetle with a California license plate, as if it has grabbed the vehicle from the bridge above.

Trolls in Scandinavian folklore are unsightly dwarfs or giants that live in caves, in forests or under bridges while preying on human flesh, and the one here was actually based on the Norwegian folktale, 'Three Billy Goats Gruff'. Reportedly, it does a good job of scaring off passing billy goats, as well as skateboarders and drug dealers.

The troll made his appearance in 1991, commissioned by the Fremont Arts Council. Visitors and nonprofits are encouraged to clamber over the sculpture for free and to attempt to remove the hubcap eye or – why not? - pull on the beard. It's not something you see or do everyday!

Why You Should Visit:
To see a fun and hip sculpture that totally fits Fremont's/Seattle's artsy vibe.