Salem Sue, the World's Largest Holstein Cow
Standing proud on a hill overlooking Interstate 94, this massive 38-foot-tall fiberglass Holstein cow honors the local dairy industry. Built in 1974, Salem Sue is so large that she can be seen from miles away, offering spectacular panoramic views of the prairie from her base.
- Admission
- Free (donations accepted)
- Hours
- Open 24/7 (daylight hours recommended)
- Duration
- 15-30 minutes
- Parking
- Free parking lot available at the base of the monument
- Access
- The path leading up to the statue's base is paved but very steep; however, the monument is easily visible from the parking lot
Read more
Rising majestically over the rolling hills of North Dakota, Salem Sue is a monumental tribute to the region's dairy farming heritage. Built in 1974 by the local Lions Club, this colossal fiberglass Holstein cow stands 38 feet tall and stretches 50 feet long.
Visitors can drive up a winding road to the base of the hill where Sue stands vigilant. From this elevated vantage point, you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding prairie and get an up-close look at the incredible scale of this roadside icon.
As one of the world's most famous giant animal statues, Salem Sue remains a beloved symbol of rural pride and American roadside culture. A short pathway leads directly to her hooves, making it an easy and memorable photo stop for travelers along Interstate 94.
Ratings
roadside attractionVisitor Tips
- ◆ Take the clearly marked exit off Interstate 94; the route up to the hill is short and easy to find.
- ◆ Bring a wide-angle lens or use panoramic mode to capture the entire statue along with the vast prairie background.
- ◆ Visit during the golden hour at sunrise or sunset for spectacular lighting and dramatic views of the surrounding landscape.
Heads Up
- ◆ The road leading up the hill can be steep and may become slippery during heavy rain or winter weather.
- ◆ The hilltop is highly exposed, so expect strong, gusty winds during your visit.
Common questions
Can you go inside Salem Sue?
No, you cannot go inside the statue, as it is a hollow fiberglass structure with no interior access or public viewing platform.
Can you see Salem Sue from Interstate 94?
Yes, the giant cow statue is highly visible on the hill to the south of I-94 as you drive near the New Salem exit.
Can you drive a large RV up to the statue?
Yes, but the gravel road leading up the hill is steep and the turnaround loop at the top can be tight for very large trailers. Some visitors with large RVs prefer to park at the bottom of the hill and walk up.
More World's Largest Everything
- World's Largest Axe · Nackawic, NB
- World's Largest Peanut Monument · Ashburn, Georgia
- Sweet Willy, the World's Largest Beagle · Cottonwood, ID
- World's Largest Mailbox · Casey, Illinois
- World's Largest Rocking Chair · Casey, Illinois