Looking for a quirky road trip adventure this fall? Ontario is home to some truly outlandish and larger-than-life roadside attractions. From colossal coins to a towering Canada Goose, these giant landmarks are sure to catch your eye and spark a bit of nostalgia along the way.
As featured in Reader’s Digest Canada, these supersized wonders are scattered across the province, offering a fun detour whether you’re travelling up north or along the highway.
So pack a snack, hit the road, and get ready to meet some of Ontario’s most iconic larger-than-life landmarks.
Big Nickel
Sudbury, Ontario
Greater Sudbury is home to the world’s largest coin, the iconic Big Nickel. Built in 1964 by Ted Szliva, this massive five-cent piece commemorates the area’s significant role in the global mining industry. Weighing nearly 12,000 kilograms, the Big Nickel is an astonishing 64-million times the size of an actual nickel. Visitors can admire this giant coin year-round at Science North’s Dynamic Earth attraction.
Canada’s Largest Loonie
Echo Bay, Ontario
Echo Bay, located three hours west of Sudbury, proudly boasts Canada’s largest loonie. Installed in 1992, the Loon Dollar Monument is a fun roadside attraction along Highway 17. While inflation may not affect this oversized coin, it’s still a must-see stop on your northern Ontario road trip.
The Big Apple
Colborne, Ontario
Colborne, Ontario’s Big Apple is a towering tribute to the fruit it represents, said to be the largest apple-shaped structure in the world. Since its opening in 1987, this enormous apple has been a popular destination for travellers, offering panoramic views from its 10-metre-tall core. While you’re there, be sure to sample the famous homemade apple pies and other apple treats from its on-site bakery.
World’s Largest Canada Goose
Wawa, Ontario
In Wawa, Ontario, a giant Canada Goose stands proudly as a tribute to this national symbol. Installed in 1960 near the Trans-Canada Highway, the colossal goose pays homage to the town’s Ojibway name, which means “Wild Goose” or “Land of the Big Goose.” Visitors to Wawa can find this feathered giant by the local Tourist Information Centre, standing watch over the town.
Colossal Cow
New Liskeard, Ontario
Standing five metres tall, Ms. Claybelt is a giant fibreglass cow located in New Liskeard, Ontario. She represents the fertile farmlands of the Claybelt region and is a landmark for travellers passing through at the junction of Highway 11 and Highway 11B.
Big Joe Muffraw
Mattawa, Ontario
A legendary figure from Ottawa Valley folklore, Big Joe Mufferaw was known for his strength and heroism, defending French Canadian loggers in stories reminiscent of Paul Bunyan. Visitors to Explorer’s Point in Mattawa can view a hand-carved pine statue of Joe at the Mattawa Museum, offering a perfect opportunity for a photo with one of Canada’s most enduring folk heroes.
What are your favorite giant roadside attractions in Ontario? We’d love to hear which ones top your list! Let us know!
