It’s common to see signs everywhere we go. The uninspired welcome board at the entrance of a restaurant, the classic ‘no smoking’ sign, or the black and white ones that say ‘park here’. But if you look around carefully, the world is full of silly signs that are anything but boring.
And the r/signs subreddit is proof of that. This light-hearted online community shares some of the most entertaining signs out there. Below, we’ve compiled our favorite bizarre and witty signage from them. Keep scrolling to check out some eye-catching signs, and don’t forget to upvote the ones that make you smile.
#1 Found In Abandoned Car
Image credits: reddit.com
#2 Hm
Image credits: AnemicIron
#3 He Sleeps With His Legs In The Air
Image credits: Conscious_Valuable90
You will find signs not just in public spaces but also in businesses and even on roadways. While these signs provide us with all the details in a very unappealing way, it’s intriguing to see creative signs like these ones.
When you visit a park and need information about trails or picnic areas, all you need to do is look for a sign board indicating the name and distance of the spot. Similarly, they also point out the rules for activities such as swimming and fishing.
#4 Artist Unknown
Image credits: Tosscraft
#5
Image credits: GryphonSK
#6 Kidnapped Employees
Image credits: Callabuddy
For visitors and residents alike, being able to find clear directions and accurate opening and closing times is important. Regardless of their familiarity with the area, people might be able to navigate public spaces comfortably thanks to wayfinding signage.
These signs help tourists orient themselves, and locals might just discover new areas. In order to improve accessibility, signage can also include features like Braille and tactile elements to ensure that everyone can understand the information provided.
#7 Sorry
Image credits: ChrisMMatthews
#8 Good Neighborhood
Image credits: lostproton
#9 Notice
Image credits: beef_curtainss
A blog by the Merson Group, who are known for place branding and digital signage, points out the significance of signage being consistent and clear. They mention that popular points of interest, such as historical monuments, should be precisely signposted.
For instance, there should be interesting signs alongside heritage buildings sharing details about the site. According to them, signage can be integrated to pay homage to a city’s past.
#10 Must Read
Image credits: SanRafaelDriverDad
#11
Image credits: RedditRocks2021
#12 Barber Shop Sign Tells It Like It Is
Image credits: micasa_es_miproblema
In the retail space, unique messages on sign boards help attract walk-in customers. People can also know about sales, discounts, and deals that a shop offers. For instance, when you visit a mall, you see a sign on a store that says, “Warning: trying on clothes may lead to unexpected purchases.” Reading such ingenious signs may instantly put a smile on your face.
#13 That’s One Way To Look At It
Image credits: Diogenes_Prime
#14 Man Down Ahead
Image credits: carrythenine
#15 They Don’t Like Americans Very Much
Image credits: lostproton
Attractive signs not only help brands create a lasting impression but also encourage shoppers to visit their store. When designed properly, they help people get an idea of what to expect from your shop.
For small businesses, signs help create awareness by letting customers know what products and services you offer.
#16 What…
Image credits: kkatiesanders
#17 Figured It Fit Here
Image credits: goblinoidfleshbag
#18 Long Yellow Things
Image credits: PerCuriam1
On the other hand, signs that are badly designed turn customers away. They are either confusing or just plain ugly. To begin with, they might have poor fonts, making it nearly impossible for people to read them. The color combinations could also spoil the way signs turn out. Imagine using a white font on a white background.
The worst ones are the signs that lack crucial information. If you are looking at a bookstore’s sign, you would want to see their opening hours. Signs that don’t reflect the company’s overall visual branding don’t leave a good impression.
#19 Perfect Instead Of “Beware Of Dog”
Image credits: oneislandgirl
#20 Deadend
Image credits: reddit.com
#21 Understatement?
Image credits: arcticbronco
Businesses can use different types of signs to make their establishment stand out. It’s all about getting creative these days. Imagine that you are passing by a restaurant that has illuminated signs: the ones that use lighting elements such as LEDs or neon tubes. They will not only attract attention during the day, but they will also increase visibility during the night. Some billboards also have illuminated signs.
Another unique selling point could be pylon signs. You can usually find these tall displays near roadways or highways. They include names and logos and are often used to advertise shopping centers or new attractions in town.
#22 Guess We Go Naked
Image credits: thatlady729
#23 My Local DQ
Image credits: reddit.com
#24 The Ultimate Six Word Story
Image credits: hechima_tawashi
Restaurants, cafes, and bars can also use outdoor signage to attract more customers. They can use puns and make vibrant drawings on sidewalk signs using chalkboards. Imagine you are having a stressful day and you suddenly see a sign that reads, ‘Our cafe is a latte fun—come sip, relax, and enjoy!’. Chances are, you might go in to unwind and have a cup of cappuccino. Owners should make sure to place the signage where it is visible to as many passersby as possible.
While we are used to seeing signs that convey important messages, provide directions, and ensure safety, there are also these unique ones that are either very clever or just bizarre or hilarious. When advertising and sales teams put effort into creating quirky signs, they often stand out.
Many brands even use their logos on sign boards. For instance, the iconic golden arches are the primary signage for McDonald’s restaurants all over the world.
#25 Oh Oh
Image credits: piselyl
#26 Sign Local To Me
Image credits: pompousjunk
#27 Upstanding Citizens
Image credits: Juedequilles
Not all signs are meant to serve a purpose. Many of these weird signs defy logic and common sense. But they surely make you smile. Whether it’s a genuine mistake or a carefully drafted sign, these posts remind you how a little creativity goes a long way.
Which one of these signs do you want to see in person? Tell us about hilarious sign boards in your neighborhood!
#28 Always Good Advice
Image credits: SelfAwareComment
#29 This Is In The Drive Through At My Local Dairy Queen
Image credits: FadedRainbow134
#30 Efficient Business
Image credits: CONCACAFKING
#31 Absolutely No Parking
Image credits: irblrb84
#32 What Kind Of Store?
Image credits: beef_curtainss
#33 Hes An Optimist
Image credits: Devistator16
#34 Found In Utah
Image credits: Professional_Fall874
#35 Finally Found A Place I Can Share This
Image credits: fluffymellowsinc
#36 Alright
Image credits: NoodniXL
#37 Don’t Leave Your Children Here… Or You Will Wish You Hadn’t!
Image credits: MarkSH2904
#38 True
Image credits: keith2301
#39 Found This In A Toilet In Japan
Image credits: lu_c_fur
#40 Don’t Think I’ll Be Going There Anytime Soon
Image credits: reddit.com
#41 Should I Really Get My Medicine At The Harmacy ?
Image credits: toceto_mk
#42 No Shirt, No Shoes Allowed In Store
Image credits: vavavoomva
#43 Found At Target. I Can’t Seem To Think Of A Single Instance Where This Sign Would Be Needed
Image credits: Magician-Slothful
#44 Shouldn’t This Sign Be In Spanish?
Image credits: InevitableRhubarb232
#45 Do Not Enter… But… Green Means Go?
Image credits: RonaldFKNSwanson
#46 I Became What I Wanted To Destroy
Image credits: oofinsmorcht
#47 Beware Of Children
Image credits: zpb52
#48 I Wonder What They Do?
Image credits: Zealousideal-Data180
#49 Should I Touch The Lamps?
Image credits: LiminalMask
#50 Someone Doesn’t Like Shellfish
Image credits: keith2301
#51 Don’t Miss This One Time Offer!
Image credits: reddit.com
#52 Best Sign I Have Ever Seen In A Public Restroom
Image credits: ProfessionalDue1048
#53 Why Is This Here?
Image credits: JuliusSneezerthe1st
#54 Sign In The Town I Grew Up In
Image credits: Dambergw
#55 Fartville
Image credits: spaghetti0223
#56 If Found Fake Money
Image credits: Simiram
#57
Image credits: Lavidakus