A Quirky Record-Breaking Attraction
Tucked away in the small town of Alexandria, Indiana, sits an unusual roadside marvel that has been delighting visitors for decades—the World’s largest ball of paint. This quirky attraction isn’t just a piece of static art; it’s an ongoing, hands-on project that continues to grow with each person who visits. Housed inside a humble barn, the ball of paint has become a symbol of creativity, community participation, and sheer persistence.
The story began when Mike Carmichael and his wife, Glenda, decided to preserve a simple baseball by painting it. That first coat, applied in 1977, sparked an idea that would lead to thousands upon thousands of layers of paint over the years. What started as a small personal project has transformed into a record-setting feat recognized by Guinness World Records.
From Baseball to Behemoth
At its core, literally, the ball is still the original baseball. However, decades of paint have turned it into a massive sphere weighing hundreds of pounds and measuring several feet in diameter. Each layer adds not only weight but also history, as every person who visits can contribute their own coat of paint.
How Visitors Participate
One of the most unique aspects of the ball of paint is that it’s interactive. Guests are invited to pick a color, dip their brush, and add a new layer themselves. Each contribution is documented, and visitors can even sign a guest book to mark their participation in the project’s story.
A Barn Full of Color
The ball hangs from the ceiling of the Carmichaels’ barn, supported by a sturdy chain. Surrounding it are shelves of paint cans, brushes, and photos chronicling the ball’s growth over time. Walls are decorated with newspaper clippings, awards, and snapshots of smiling visitors standing proudly next to their fresh coat of paint.
Guinness World Record Holder
The ball of paint officially holds the Guinness World Record for the largest ball of paint, a title it has retained through regular updates and verification. As of the most recent count, it boasts tens of thousands of layers, each representing someone’s personal mark on a shared piece of art.
Why It’s More Than Just Paint
While it might seem like a simple curiosity, the ball of paint has become a community touchstone. Families return year after year to add new layers, and tourists from around the world have made the trek to take part in the tradition. It’s a testament to how something small can grow into something extraordinary when people come together.
A Creative Legacy
Mike and Glenda see the project as a way to connect with people and share in a lighthearted, joyful experience. The ball of paint is a reminder that art doesn’t always have to be serious—it can be fun, collaborative, and a little bit eccentric.
Visiting the Ball of Paint
The attraction is open to visitors by appointment, ensuring that each guest gets the chance to enjoy their time without feeling rushed. This also allows the Carmichaels to personally greet guests, share stories, and guide them through the painting process. For many, meeting the couple is just as memorable as adding a layer to the ball itself.
Tips for Your Visit
If you’re planning a trip to see the ball of paint, it’s best to call ahead and schedule your visit. This ensures that the Carmichaels can set aside time for you and prepare the paint supplies. The experience is completely free, though donations are welcome to help cover the cost of paint and upkeep.
Choosing Your Color
One of the most exciting parts for visitors is picking the paint color. With a rainbow of options available, you can select something bold, subtle, or personally meaningful. Some guests choose to paint with their favorite team’s colors, while others go for bright, eye-catching hues that will stand out—at least until the next coat covers them.
A Fun Stop for All Ages
The ball of paint appeals to visitors of all ages. Kids love the novelty of painting something so unusual, while adults appreciate the quirky charm and world-record status. It’s a rare attraction where everyone can contribute to a shared work of art, no matter their skill level.
Capturing the Moment
Don’t forget your camera—posing next to the giant sphere after adding your coat of paint is a must. Many visitors take before-and-after photos to remember the moment they became part of the ball’s long and colorful history.
Growing Through the Years
Since its first coat of paint in the late 1970s, the ball has been steadily increasing in size. Mike estimates that thousands of gallons of paint have gone into its layers, and there’s no sign of slowing down. Every new visitor adds not just to its mass, but to the collective story it represents.
Community and Media Attention
The ball of paint has been featured in local and national media, from newspapers to TV shows highlighting roadside attractions. This publicity has brought in curious travelers from across the United States and even from other countries, each eager to add their mark to the ever-growing masterpiece.
Why It’s Worth the Detour
In an age of fast-paced entertainment, the ball of paint offers something refreshingly simple—an experience rooted in creativity, participation, and human connection. It’s not about how quickly you can check it off your list, but about taking a moment to be part of something unique and enduring.
A Tradition That Keeps on Rolling
Mike and Glenda have no plans to stop the project anytime soon. As long as people keep showing up, the ball will keep growing, one brushstroke at a time. For them, the joy comes from meeting new people, hearing their stories, and watching the colorful layers pile up year after year.
Planning Your Trip
The World’s largest ball of paint in Alexandria is located in central Indiana, making it an easy stop for travelers exploring the region. Pair your visit with a meal at a local diner or a walk through the town’s historic district to make a full day of it. Just remember to wear clothes you don’t mind getting a bit of paint on—though aprons are provided, a stray splash is always possible.
Whether you’re a fan of quirky roadside attractions, an art enthusiast, or simply looking for a one-of-a-kind travel story to tell, the world’s largest ball of paint is well worth the trip. You’ll leave knowing you’ve added your own layer to a piece of living art that keeps growing, brightening, and bringing joy to all who see it.
