From charming off-the-beaten-path attractions to quirky museums and unusual natural features, Local Hidden Gems highlights some of the remarkable and unexpected finds that make America a treasure trove. We focus on enchantment, surprise, and joy.

Nestled in the quirky desert roads of Joshua Tree is a museum like no other: the World Famous Crochet Museum.

Rather than being filled with renowned paintings and sculptures typical of art museums, this one showcases a charming collection of crocheted animals, dolls, and various figures inside a small green building – which is actually a former Fotomat kiosk. It might seem like a bizarre roadside stop, but in Joshua Tree, where everything has a unique twist (and we mean that affectionately), it’s only fitting to have an attraction such as the Crochet Museum.

The museum is the brainchild of artist, fashion designer, and musician Shari Elf, who began her crochet collection in the 1990s. Interestingly, she has never learned to crochet or knit herself, though she has taken a handful of lessons, according to the museum’s website.

Despite her limited crocheting abilities, Elf has devoted herself to celebrating these quirky creative pieces. The small green hut is brimming with crocheted items of all shapes, from a fully green Statue of Liberty to a blue and pink slice of cake, along with cuddly teddy bears and Lilo from Disney’s “Lilo & Stitch” sporting her hula outfit.

Similar to other museums, viewing the art is encouraged, but touching is off-limits. Should you wish to take a piece of this whimsical museum home, the Art Queen studio located next door offers a selection of posters, stickers, pins, and of course, crocheted creations for purchase.

Location: 61-855 Highway 62 (access through the path to the left of La Matadora Gallery), Joshua Tree, CA, 92252

For more details:  www.instagram.com/worldfamouscrochetmuseum