Discover Canada's 9 Most Unusual Tourist Landmarks in 2024
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Canada is a land of natural wonders and cultural richness, but it boasts some of the most eccentric and offbeat landmarks imaginable.
Here’s a guide to discovering Canada’s most unbelievably quirky landmarks that promise to add a touch of whimsy and wonder to your travel adventures.
The Big Fiddle: A Symphony in Steel
The Big Fiddle isn’t just a large-scale sculpture; it’s a bold statement about Cape Breton’s deep-rooted musical traditions. Constructed in 2005, it was designed to celebrate the rich history of Cape Breton’s fiddling culture, which has been an integral part of the region’s identity for centuries.
The Legend of Ogopogo
Ogopogo’s legend dates back to the indigenous peoples of the Okanagan Valley, who spoke of a serpentine creature inhabiting the lake. The First Nations’ tales describe Ogopogo as a water spirit or guardian, often depicted as a giant serpent-like being.
The creature’s name is believed to be derived from the Salish word maitake, which translates to lake demon or water monster.
The Big Apple isn’t just a pretty face; it’s a hub of activity and a testament to Canadian creativity. Inside this colossal apple, you’ll find a charming bakery specializing in fresh apple pies and other baked goods, each prepared with locally sourced ingredients. The Big Apple also offers a fascinating glimpse into apple farming history.
Whether you’re an Apple fan or just curious about farming practices, the informative displays provide an engaging and educational experience for all ages.
Jumbo the Elephant
Jumbo the Elephant isn’t just big; he’s also significant in history. Standing proudly in St. Thomas, Ontario, this enormous elephant statue pays homage to one of the most famous circus elephants of the 19th century. Jumbo was a massive African elephant who became an international sensation during their time with P.T. Barnum’s circus.
Tragically, life was cut short in a train accident in 1885, but the legacy lives on through this iconic statue. When you think of elephants, you might picture them roaming the savannah or splashing in waterholes, but in Canada, Jumbo the Elephant offers a different kind of charm.
Ufo Landing Pad
The UFO Landing Pad is a large, circular concrete structure that commands attention with its out-of-this-world design. It features a massive, illuminated landing light and is adorned with alien-themed artwork.
The structure’s bold design and eerie allure make it an eye-catching landmark perfect for a memorable photo op. Whether you’re a true believer or a curious traveler, the Landing Pad offers a unique snapshot of St. Paul’s eccentric charm.
World’s Largest Perogy
Perogies, those delicious dumplings filled with anything from potatoes and cheese to meats and vegetables, are a staple of Canadian comfort food. But imagine taking this beloved dish and scaling it up to a size that’s both awe-inspiring and slightly comical. That’s precisely what happened with the World’s Largest Perogy.
The Big Nickel
The Big Nickel, towering at 30 feet in diameter and weighing over 13,000 pounds, isn’t just a giant coin; it’s an iconic piece of Canadian history. Erected in 1964, this massive replica of a Canadian nickel commemorates the city’s significant role in mining. It’s a striking visual representation of Sudbury’s industrial past and its enduring legacy. Why a giant nickel, you ask?
The coin showcases the nickel ore that has been a cornerstone of Sudbury’s economy, turning the city into a bustling hub of mining activity. It’s more than just a quirky attraction. It celebrates the hard work and dedication that fueled Sudbury’s growth.
The Wawa Goose Monument
In the picturesque town of Wawa, Ontario, there’s a landmark that might make you do a double-take. This is no ordinary monument, and it’s the Wawa Goose Monument, an impressive 27-foot-tall sculpture that has become a beloved symbol of this small Canadian community.
If you’re looking for a unique stop on your travels through Ontario, this quirky giant goose should be on your radar. The Wawa Goose Monument isn’t just a big statue; it’s a tribute to the area’s rich history and the local geography.
The Giant Beaver
Beaverlodge might be a small town, but it’s home to one of the most recognizable statues in Canada. Standing at a whopping 26 feet long and 13 feet high, the Giant Beaver is more than just a monumental sculpture; it’s a tribute to the town’s name and historical connection to the fur trade.
Unveiled in 1996, this larger-than-life beaver was built to celebrate the town’s roots and its significant role in Canada’s beaver fur industry. The Giant Beaver isn’t just big; it’s meticulously crafted.
The World’s Largest Bee
For starters, its sheer size is jaw-dropping. Standing next to it, you’ll feel like you’ve shrunk to the size of a flower. But it’s not just about size; the World’s Largest Bee embodies the spirit of community and creativity. Its creation involved the collaboration of local artisans and volunteers, turning it into a symbol of regional pride.
Located in the small town of Druid, British Columbia, the World’s Largest Bee is an impressive 40-foot-long, 13-foot-tall, and 14-foot-wide marvel made entirely of metal. This buzzing behemoth was erected to celebrate the local honey industry and pay tribute to bees’ vital role in our ecosystem.
