Herkimer, the World's Largest Beetle, Pikes Peak Region Travel Guide

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Colorado Springs' colossal beetle! A quirky roadside attraction and mascot for the May Natural History Museum. A must-see photo op!

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Herkimer, the World's Largest Beetle

A roadside attraction in Colorado Springs, Herkimer is a giant fiberglass replica of a Hercules beetle, standing guard outside the May Natural History Museum. Built in 1949, this colossal insect has been a beloved landmark for decades, drawing visitors to marvel at its impressive size and pose for photos.

A brief summary to Herkimer, the World's Largest Beetle

710 Rock Creek Canyon Rd, Colorado Springs, Rock Creek, Colorado, 80926, US
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Herkimer, the World's Largest Beetle.

Bring your camera! Herkimer is a fantastic photo opportunity, especially for those who love quirky roadside attractions.
Visit the May Natural History Museum to see real Hercules beetles and an impressive collection of insects from around the world.
Stop by the gift shop for a Colorado Springs Monopoly game, which includes the May Museum and Herkimer.

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Getting There

Driving

Herkimer is located at 710 Rock Creek Canyon Rd, just off Highway 115. From Colorado Springs, take Highway 115 south. You'll find Herkimer and the May Natural History Museum at the intersection with Rock Creek Canyon Road. There is a dirt parking lot available, but exercise caution when entering and exiting.

Discover more about Herkimer, the World's Largest Beetle

Herkimer, the World's Largest Beetle, is a quirky and captivating roadside attraction located in Colorado Springs, serving as the unofficial mascot for the May Natural History Museum. This enormous replica of a male West Indian Hercules Beetle (Dynastes Hercules) has been a landmark since 1952. Built in 1949 by John May, the museum's founder, Herkimer stands 10 feet high and 16 feet long, a scale of one-foot equals ¼ inch, making him 48 times larger than a real Hercules beetle.Originally part of a traveling May Tropical Exhibition, Herkimer even spent time in Florida before returning to Colorado Springs, where he has stood for over sixty years at the entrance to Rock Creek Canyon along Highway 115. Over the years, Herkimer has faced vandalism and even the theft of his legs, leading to periods of being behind a fence. However, in 2022, he underwent a major restoration, ensuring he remains a striking sight for years to come.Today, visitors can once again get up close to Herkimer, posing for photos with this unique piece of Americana. While at the May Natural History Museum, be sure to check out the museum's collection of actual Hercules beetles, which can grow up to nine inches long.