Top 13 Big Roadside Attractions in Ontario: Mandatory Stops

There is an undeniable, nostalgic magic to the classic Canadian road trip. Beyond the sprawling provincial parks and the shimmering shorelines of the Great Lakes, Ontario hides a whimsical subculture that turns a simple drive into a legendary quest: the search for oversized monuments. Seeking out big roadside attractions in Ontario has become a quintessential pastime for locals and tourists alike, turning long stretches of asphalt into a scavenger hunt for the colossal and the quirky.

These monuments are more than just concrete and steel; they are vibrant symbols of local pride, historical milestones, and the ultimate "I was there" photo opportunity.

Whether you are navigating the rugged Trans-Canada Highway in the north or cruising the scenic corridors of the south, the roadside attractions Ontario offers provide a much-needed break from the driver's seat. In this comprehensive guide, we have curated the 13 most iconic, unusual, and photogenic giant statues that make an Ontario road trip truly unforgettable.

The Best Big Roadside Attractions in Ontario

From the nickel mines of the north to the apple orchards of the east, here is a detailed breakdown of the province’s most famous giants.

1. The Big Nickel (Sudbury)

Standing atop a rocky ridge overlooking the city, the Big Nickel is the undisputed king of big roadside attractions in Ontario. This 30-foot-tall (9-metre) stainless steel replica of a 1951 Canadian five-cent piece commemorates Sudbury’s storied history as a world leader in nickel production. It was originally built in 1964 as a Centennial project and has since become a global icon for the region.

Why it’s unique: It is officially the world’s largest coin, weighing in at a staggering 13,000 kilograms. The coin sits on the grounds of Dynamic Earth, an immersive science centre where visitors can actually descend into the depths of the earth to tour a real nickel mine. The monument features King George VI on the obverse and the iconic Canadian beaver on the reverse. For photographers, the "Nickel" offers a fantastic vantage point of the Sudbury skyline and the famous Vale Superstack. It is a mandatory stop for history buffs, families, and anyone exploring the Near North.

2. The Big Apple (Colborne)

If you have ever driven along Highway 401 between Toronto and Kingston, you have undoubtedly seen "Mr. Applehead" peering over the treeline. The Big Apple in Colborne is a 35-foot-tall, hollow structure that doubles as an observation deck, offering panoramic views of the surrounding Northumberland County orchards. It is the world's largest apple-shaped building and serves as the centerpiece of a massive roadside activity hub.

What visitors can expect: This is much more than a simple photo-op. The Big Apple features a full-scale bakery where you can watch staff prepare over 2,000 apple pies daily through large glass windows. The site also includes a cidery, a petting zoo, mini-golf, and a smokehouse restaurant. It is the gold standard for roadside stops Ontario travelers frequent, making it the perfect destination for families and hungry road trippers who need a high-energy break.

3. The Wawa Goose (Wawa)

Perched majestically at the junction of Highway 17 and Highway 101, the Wawa Goose is a legendary symbol of the northern wilderness. "Wawa" is the Ojibwe word for "Wild Goose," and this 28-foot-tall steel monument was originally conceived in 1960 to lure travelers off the newly completed Trans-Canada Highway and into the downtown core. The current version, unveiled in 2017, is a gleaming, rust-resistant replacement that captures the goose in a permanent state of flight.

Why it’s unique: It is one of the most photographed landmarks in North America, representing the rugged spirit of the Boreal forest. The nearby Wawa Tourist Information Centre provides a wealth of information about the area's mining and fur-trading history. It’s an essential stop for nature lovers and long-haul travelers looking to capture the essence of Northern Ontario’s vast landscape.

4. Husky the Muskie (Kenora)

In the beautiful lakeside city of Kenora, you will encounter Husky the Muskie, a towering 40-foot-tall (12-metre) replica of a Muskellunge fish. Located in McLeod Park on the northern shores of Lake of the Woods, Husky has been a local icon since 1967. He was originally built as a Canadian Centennial project with a powerful environmental message: "Husky the Muskie says: Prevent Water Pollution."

What to expect: The statue is incredibly detailed, featuring shimmering scales and lifelike fins that make it look as though the fish is leaping directly out of the water. The surrounding park offers beautiful boardwalks and views of the MS Kenora cruise ship. For photographers, the best shots are taken at sunset when the light reflects off the water and the statue’s glossy finish. It is a dream stop for fishing enthusiasts and anyone exploring the spectacular Sunset Country.

5. The Giant Toonie (Campbellford)

While Sudbury claims the nickel, the charming town of Campbellford boasts the Giant Toonie. Standing 27 feet tall in Old Mill Park along the banks of the Trent River, this monument commemorates the design of the Canadian two-dollar coin. The connection is deeply personal for the town: the artist who designed the original polar bear image for the coin, Brent Townsend, was a resident of the area.

Why it’s unique: Built in 2001 with the cooperation of the Royal Canadian Mint, the Giant Toonie is a gleaming tribute to Canadian currency and artistic achievement. The park itself is an idyllic place for a picnic, and you are just a short walk away from the famous Dooher’s Bakery, often voted the best bakery in Canada. It is a high-value stop for coin collectors, art fans, and foodies alike.

6. Jumbo the Elephant (St. Thomas)

In St. Thomas, you can find a life-sized, 38-ton statue of Jumbo, who was once the world’s most famous circus elephant. The monument commemorates the tragic 1885 accident involving a locomotive that ended Jumbo's life in this very town while he was touring with the Barnum & Bailey Circus. Standing nearly 4 meters high at the shoulder, the statue is a somber yet impressive tribute.

What visitors can expect: The monument is remarkably detailed, capturing the massive scale of the real Jumbo. Located near the Elgin County Railway Museum, the site allows visitors to learn about the deep connection between the circus and the golden age of rail travel. It is a must-visit for history buffs and fans of the unusual who want to explore a unique piece of Victorian-era lore.

7. The Giant Loon (Echo Bay)

Located just east of Sault Ste. Marie in the township of Macdonald, Meredith, and Aberdeen Additional, the Giant Loon is a beautiful artistic tribute. It honors the late Robert-Ralph Carmichael, a local resident and artist who created the iconic loon design found on the Canadian one-dollar coin (the Loonie).

Best for: This is a quieter, more contemplative stop compared to the bustling highway hubs. The loon is hand-painted and sits within a peaceful park dedicated to Carmichael's legacy. It is situated right along the Great Lakes Waterfront Trail, making it an ideal leg-stretch for cyclists and birdwatchers who want to spot real loons in the nearby Echo Bay wetlands.

8. The Big Canoe (Peterborough)

Peterborough is internationally recognized as a hub for paddling culture, so it only makes sense that the city features a massive tribute to the canoe. While the "Big Canoe" is a title often given to the oversized display pieces at the Canadian Canoe Museum, the museum as a whole is the attraction. They recently moved to a stunning new lakefront campus that houses the world's largest collection of paddled watercraft.

What to expect: A world-class facility where the history of the canoe—from Indigenous birchbark origins to modern fiberglass designs—is explored in depth. The architecture of the building itself is a modern marvel. It is best for culture seekers, outdoor enthusiasts, and families looking for an educational yet visually stunning stop in the Kawarthas.

9. Giant Muskoka Chair (Gravenhurst)

Nothing defines an Ontario summer quite like an Adirondack chair. At the Woodmill of Muskoka in Gravenhurst, you will find a massive version of this cottage staple. This oversized chair is so large that adults look like toddlers when sitting in it, making it one of the most fun quirky attractions Ontario offers for a quick photo-op.

Why it’s unique: It perfectly captures the "cottage country" aesthetic. Located right off Highway 11, it is an easy stop for anyone heading into the heart of Muskoka. The Woodmill itself creates beautiful handcrafted furniture, so you can browse for a normal-sized chair for your own backyard after taking your "giant" photo.

10. Big Joe Mufferaw (Mattawa)

Standing guard outside the Mattawa Museum, Big Joe Mufferaw is a towering hand-carved pine statue of the legendary French-Canadian lumberjack. Joe Mufferaw (based on the real-life Joseph Montferrand) was a folk hero of the Ottawa Valley, famously celebrated in songs by Stompin' Tom Connors.

What to expect: The statue is a masterclass in woodcarving, depicting Joe with his signature boots and determined expression. The museum is located at the confluence of the Mattawa and Ottawa Rivers, providing a stunning natural backdrop. It is a fantastic stop for those interested in Canadian folklore and the rugged history of the timber industry.

11. The Mammoth Cheese (Perth)

In the historic town of Perth, you can visit a replica of the Mammoth Cheese, a legendary 22,000-pound block of cheddar that was produced for the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair. The original cheese was so large it had to be transported on a reinforced railway car and became a global sensation.

Why it’s unique: While the original cheese was eventually eaten (it took years!), the concrete replica keeps this strange piece of agricultural history alive. Located near the old train station and the Perth Museum, this stop is perfect for fans of historical oddities and anyone who appreciates a good "cheesy" story from Ontario's past.

12. Winnie the Pooh Statue (White River)

A little-known fact for many international travelers is that the "real" Winnie the Pooh was a black bear cub from Ontario. In White River, a charming statue of Pooh sitting in a tree commemorates the cub purchased here in 1914 by Lt. Harry Colebourn. The cub was named "Winnie" after Harry’s hometown of Winnipeg before eventually moving to the London Zoo, where he inspired A.A. Milne’s stories.

What visitors can expect: A heartwarming monument that connects a global Disney icon to a small town in Northern Ontario. The park features a small museum and plaques detailing the history of the bear and the soldier. It is an absolute must for families and Disney fans traveling along the Lake Superior Circle Tour.

13. Max the Moose (Dryden)

Last but certainly not least is Max the Moose, an 18-foot-tall (5.5-metre) statue that has been greeting travelers in Dryden since 1962. Max is a beloved mascot for the city and a symbol of the vast, wild forests that surround it. He is one of the oldest and most enduring big roadside attractions in Ontario.

What to expect: A classic, no-frills roadside photo-op. Max is located in a well-maintained park with plenty of space for kids to run around. He represents the transition into the deep west of Northern Ontario, serving as a friendly guardian for those heading toward the Manitoba border.

Regional Breakdown: Planning Your Route

To see these unique things to see in Ontario efficiently, it is best to group them by region.

Region	Primary Attractions	Best For
Northern Ontario	Big Nickel, Wawa Goose, Husky the Muskie, Max the Moose	Long-distance explorers and nature lovers.
Eastern Ontario	The Big Apple, Giant Toonie, Mammoth Cheese	Foodies and history buffs looking for day trips.
Southern/Central	Jumbo the Elephant, Giant Muskoka Chair, Big Canoe	Families and weekend warriors from the GTA.

Tips for Visiting Roadside Attractions in Ontario

• Check the Weather: Northern Ontario weather can be unpredictable. Even in the summer, mornings can be chilly. If you are visiting the Wawa Goose or Husky the Muskie, bring a light jacket.

• Photography Lighting: Most of these statues are best photographed during the "golden hour" (just after sunrise or before sunset). Avoid high noon to prevent harsh shadows on the statues' faces.

• Support Local: Many of these attractions are located on the property of small businesses or near local museums. Be sure to stop in and buy a coffee or a souvenir to support the communities that maintain these landmarks.

• Sustainable Travel: Please respect the parks and private properties where these statues are located. Stick to marked paths and ensure you leave no trace behind.

Final Thoughts

Ontario’s giants are more than just highway markers; they are the heart and soul of the province's small-town charm. Whether you are chasing the world's largest coin in Sudbury or snacking on a pie at The Big Apple, these big roadside attractions in Ontario offer a sense of wonder that you simply won't find on a standard vacation itinerary. They remind us that the best part of any trip is the unexpected discoveries we make along the way.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most famous roadside attractions in Ontario?

The Big Nickel (Sudbury), The Big Apple (Colborne), and the Wawa Goose are generally considered the "Big Three" iconic stops.

Are these roadside attractions free to visit?

The vast majority of them are located in public parks and are completely free. Attractions on private property (like The Big Apple) are free to view, though there are costs for additional activities.

Where is the best place to find quirky attractions in Ontario?

Northern Ontario has the highest concentration of giant animal and coin statues, while Eastern Ontario is famous for its food-related monuments.

Are roadside attractions open year-round?

While you can see the statues 365 days a year, the visitor centers and shops attached to them often have seasonal hours, typically closing or reducing hours during the winter months.

Is it worth driving to Kenora just for Husky the Muskie?

While Husky is impressive, Kenora itself is a world-class destination for boating, hiking, and fishing, making the trip well worth the effort for outdoor enthusiasts.