When it comes to roadside attractions in Texas, one of the most unique of them all has quite an interesting origin story, to boot. The world’s largest working fire hydrant is hiding in downtown Beaumont, boasting Dalmatian spots that beg you to get out and pose for a picture.
Perhaps one of the quirkiest roadside attractions in Texas is the world’s largest working fire hydrant, located in the heart of downtown Beaumont.
Google/Rock Labelle Freedom51
In front of the Fire Museum of Texas on Walnut Street, this iconic, Dalmatian-spotted landmark is a whopping 24 feet tall and can blast 1,500 gallons of water a minute!
Wikimedia Commons/R. Rothenberger
The fire hydrant was donated to the City of Beaumont (which beat out over 300 cities nationwide) by the Walt Disney Company in 1999 as a promotion stunt for the re-release of the animated movie 101 Dalmatians. It was assembled at Disney Land, weighing in at an impressive 4,500 pounds of fiberglass and steel.
Google/David Lobree
If you think the giant hydrant is adorable, just wait until you see all the miniature ones lining the street. Fun fact: this particular pattern of Dalmatian spots is copyrighted by Walt Disney!
Google/Rebecca F
After checking out the fire hydrant (and snapping an obligatory photo), head into the fire museum and embark on a fascinating journey through the history and evolution of firefighting.
Google/Steven Díaz Zalduondo
The museum first opened in 1984, and it remains an incredible attraction for all ages. Downstairs, a collection of antique fire equipment and vehicles is like a portal into the past…
Facebook/The Fire Museum of Texas
…and upstairs, kids have a blast sitting in a special firetruck designed just for them and participating in interactive exhibits that demonstrate key fire home and safety facts.
Facebook/The Fire Museum of Texas
Have you ever seen the world’s largest working fire hydrant in Beaumont? If so, we’d love to hear all about your experience! Tell us in the comments section below. Don’t forget to check out our previous article for a delicious burger restaurant to try while you’re in town.
Google/Rock Labelle Freedom51
Wikimedia Commons/R. Rothenberger
Google/David Lobree
Google/Rebecca F
Google/Steven Díaz Zalduondo
Facebook/The Fire Museum of Texas
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Address: World’s Largest Working Fire Hydrant, 219 Main St, Beaumont, TX 77701, USA
