Ontario is home to a collection of quirky and memorable roadside attractions that offer more than just a quick photo op—they create unique pit stops for travelers and road-trippers alike. Whether you’re heading north toward Lake Superior or cruising through small towns in southern Ontario, these oversized monuments add character and charm to the journey.
One of the most iconic is the Big Apple in Colborne, a cheerful giant red apple that greets visitors just off Highway 401. The roadside stop is famous for its fresh-baked pies, apple cider, tarts, maple treats, nostalgic candies like Fun Dip, and a bustling summer food truck scene.
Further north, the Wawa Goose stands proudly at the junction of the Trans-Canada Highway and Highway 101. The eight-metre-tall monument overlooks Lake Superior and welcomes travelers to the town of Wawa, whose name means “wild goose” in Ojibway. It’s among the most photographed landmarks on the Lake Superior Circle Tour.
In Sudbury, the Big Nickel pays tribute to Ontario’s rich mining history. Built in 1964, the massive 13,000-kg replica of a 1951 Canadian five-cent coin sits on display at Science North. At more than 64 million times the size of an actual nickel, it’s a must-see for selfie enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
East of Sault Ste. Marie, Echo Bay is home to the Loon Dollar Monument, which honours artist Robert Ralph Carmichael, designer of the Canadian loonie. The monument, built in 1992, features picnic areas and serves as a quiet place to reflect on a piece of national currency history.
The Giant Toonie Monument in Campbellford offers a similar tribute to the $2 coin, designed by wildlife artist Brent Townsend. Built in 2001 and measuring over eight metres high, the monument features a polar bear on an ice floe and marks Campbellford as the official “Home of the Two Dollar Coin.”
In the Niagara Region, the Allanburg Giant—a towering figure wearing a bright pink shirt—is hard to miss from Highway 406. Formerly known as Mr. Furnace, this cheerful colossus adds a splash of roadside whimsy near Thorold.
Travelers heading north of Thunder Bay can visit the World’s Largest Snowman in Beardmore. Standing more than 10 metres tall, this frosty figure swaps out accessories based on the season—wielding a fishing rod in summer or a curling broom in winter—while always wearing sunglasses and a signature top hat.
In southwestern Ontario, Jumbo the Elephant stands as a solemn yet majestic tribute to one of history’s most beloved circus elephants. The statue was erected in St. Thomas in 1985, 100 years after Jumbo’s tragic death when he was struck by a train.
And finally, in the town of Moonbeam, east of Kapuskasing, visitors will find the Moonbeam Flying Saucer—a monument to both Northern Lights folklore and extraterrestrial curiosity. Located at the town’s visitor centre, the flying saucer celebrates local history and otherworldly imagination. Moonbeam also offers 34 kilometres of trails, access to Remi Lake, and seasonal activities like fishing, skiing, and snowmobiling.
While this isn’t an exhaustive list, it highlights just how rich and diverse Ontario’s roadside culture can be. From colossal coins to giant apples and snowmen, each monument offers a snapshot of local pride and playful storytelling.