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8 Giant Landmarks Across Canada That Showcase the Charm of Small-Town Living

Kimmie Nguyen by Kimmie Nguyen
July 1, 2025
in Canada, Just for Fun
Reading Time: 11 mins read
Three geese soar through a cloudy sky.
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Planning a Canadian road trip this summer? One of the country’s most delightful travel surprises lies in its oversized roadside attractions. From apples and geese to nickels and gophers, these giant landmarks across Canada are iconic. Whether you’re visiting small towns in Canada for a vacation or considering a move, these landmarks give a window into local culture. 

Here’s a look at eight of the most memorable roadside attractions Canada has to offer. 

Jump Ahead

  • The Giant Goose
  • The Big Nickel 
  • The Big Apple 
  • Giant Muskoka Chair 
  • The Giant Gopher
  • The World’s Largest Dinosaur
  • The Great Big Truck
  • The Giant Lobster

The Giant Goose – Wawa, Ontario 

Photo: Lake Superior Circle Tour Adventure Guide

Towering 28 feet above the Trans-Canada Highway, the Giant Goose in Wawa is a symbol of small-town pride.  The giant goose was built in the 1960s to grab the attention of people passing by and encourage them to stop and explore – and it worked! Today, this massive bird is one of the most recognized roadside attractions in Canada.

Wawa, which means “wild goose” in Ojibwe, has strong Indigenous roots and sits near the stunning shores of Lake Superior. Beyond snapping a photo with the Goose, visitors can hike and fish in the area’s many lakes or explore nearby waterfalls. For outdoor lovers, Wawa offers a peaceful slice of northern Ontario wilderness—one that’s increasingly catching the eye of those looking for a quieter lifestyle.

  • Read: Same Size, Better Deal: Canadian Cities That Outshine Their U.S. Counterparts in Affordability

The Big Nickel – Sudbury, Ontario 

Photo: Science North

Standing 30 feet tall and weighing over 13,000 kilograms, the Big Nickel in Sudbury is a massive replica of a 1951 Canadian coin, serving as a shining tribute to the city’s mining legacy. It’s located at Dynamic Earth, a family-friendly science museum where you can go underground and learn about geology and Canada’s mining history.

Sudbury has evolved far beyond its roots in mining. It has now become a thriving regional hub, boasting excellent schools, a robust healthcare sector, and a growing arts scene. Families and professionals alike are discovering its livability and relative affordability compared to larger cities. So, while the Big Nickel is the star of the skyline, Sudbury itself may surprise you with everything else it has to offer.

The Big Apple – Colborne, Ontario 

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A post shared by The Big Apple (@bigapple401)

If you’re driving the 401 between Toronto and Kingston, the Big Apple in Colborne is hard to miss with its giant smiling face. Step inside to explore the on-site bakery, where you can watch fresh pies being made through large glass windows. Be sure to try their signature apple pie, or sample their apple cider donuts and fudge. Kids love the observation deck, petting zoo, and seasonal train rides, while adults might want to check out the wine and cider shop. 

This rural town is surrounded by orchards, wineries, and quiet countryside, making it a draw for anyone dreaming of a slower pace or a charming vacation property. With real estate prices more accessible than in the GTA, it’s a place where cottage-seekers and retirees alike are putting down roots.

Giant Muskoka Chair – Horseshoe Valley, Ontario

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A post shared by Pina Crispo ♥ ChicMamma.ca (@chic_mamma)

Nothing says cottage country quite like the massive red Muskoka chair in Horseshoe Valley. It sits just outside Horseshoe Resort, a year-round destination for skiing, mountain biking, and hiking.

The area around Horseshoe Valley is surrounded by cozy cabins and weekend retreats, drawing families and second-home buyers. Just 90 minutes from Toronto, it’s a top pick for those who want the cottage lifestyle without the long drive. And yes, the giant chair is perfect for that family vacation selfie.

The Giant Gopher – Eston, Saskatchewan

Photo: Your West Central

Out on the open prairies, the small town of Eston delivers with its Giant Gopher, although it was originally known as Richardson’s Ground Squirrel. This towering critter captures the light-hearted charm of prairie life and feels right at home as Eston’s unofficial greeter.

Eston may be tiny, but it’s rich in community pride, surrounded by farmland and prairie skies. For newcomers looking to escape the chaos of urban life or explore affordable living, towns like Eston might be just the one.

  • Read: These Are the Toronto Patios Locals Swear By for Summer Cocktails

The World’s Largest Dinosaur – Drumheller, Alberta

Photo: World’s Largest Dinosaur

Standing 86 feet tall, the World’s Largest Dinosaur in Drumheller towers over the Alberta badlands. Visitors can climb the 106 stairs inside the T-Rex to enjoy the view from its gaping mouth of Red Deer Valley.

Drumheller is known as Canada’s dinosaur capital, home to the Royal Tyrrell Museum and surrounded by fossil-rich landscapes. It’s an unforgettable stop and an affordable place to settle for those seeking community and character.

The Great Big Truck – Sparwood, British Columbia

Photo: On This Spot

In the heart of the Elk Valley, Sparwood proudly displays the Titan 33-19, known as the Great Big Truck. This massive, lime-green mining truck measures over 66 feet long and 22 feet tall, making it one of the largest trucks ever built. Originally used in the local coal mining industry, the Titan now serves as a testament to the region’s rich mining heritage.

Sparwood itself offers a glimpse into a tight-knit community shaped by industry and nature, with nearby trails and outdoor activities for those looking to explore the scenic Elk Valley.

The Giant Lobster – Shediac, New Brunswick

Photo: Tourism New Brunswick

On Canada’s East Coast, the seaside town of Shediac is home to the World’s Largest Lobster, a 35-foot sculpture that celebrates the town’s title as the “Lobster Capital of the World.” It’s a must-snap spot, complete with claws, antennae, and stairs so you can climb on for a photo.

Shediac offers more than seafood. With beautiful beaches, warm saltwater, Acadian culture, and vibrant summer festivals, it’s a popular vacation spot—and a growing hub for second homes and retirees looking for coastal living with character.

Looking Beyond the Big Attractions 

These giant landmarks across Canada serve as gateways into the communities that built them. Each one tells a story and hints at what life might be like. As Canadian cities become more expensive, small towns are gaining new attention. So next time you’re road-tripping, don’t just stop for the photo. Explore the town behind the statue. You might just find your next adventure—or even your next home.

Love exploring Canada’s big roadside icons? You might just fall for the towns they call home. Start your search with Zoocasa today.

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Kimmie Nguyen

Kimmie Nguyen

Kimmie Nguyen is the Data Analyst Assistant at Zoocasa where she plays a pivotal role in intertwining the intricacies of data analysis with the dynamic world of real estate. With a genuine passion for applying scientific insights into the realm of business, Kimmie brings a fresh perspective to the intersection of technology and real estate. Kimmie enjoys uncovering valuable insights in the ever-changing real estate market through the dynamic usage of data trends.

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