Canada is famous for its vast landscapes, scenic highways, and epic road trips—but it’s the unexpected stops along the way that often leave the biggest impression. From quirky roadside attractions to breathtaking natural wonders, these detours offer travelers a chance to stretch their legs and discover something unforgettable. Whether you’re heading coast to coast or exploring one province at a time, these 27 roadside stops are well worth the extra few minutes off the main route.
The Giant Nickel – Sudbury, Ontario
In Sudbury, Ontario, a massive nine-meter tall replica of a 1951 Canadian nickel towers over visitors. Known as the Giant Nickel, this roadside stop is part of Dynamic Earth, a science museum dedicated to mining. It’s not only an impressive photo opportunity but a tribute to the city’s rich history in nickel mining. The surrounding exhibits make it a worthy educational detour.
Hope Slide – Hope, British Columbia
The Hope Slide is a hauntingly beautiful reminder of nature’s force. This colossal landslide in 1965 displaced an entire mountainside. Today, a viewpoint and plaques tell the story, offering a powerful reflection spot. The surrounding mountainous scenery adds to the drama. It’s not your typical roadside attraction, but its history and solemn quiet make it an unforgettable stop.
The Gopher Hole Museum – Torrington, Alberta
Quirky and utterly charming, the Gopher Hole Museum features stuffed gophers posed in tiny, handcrafted dioramas acting out scenes of human life. From barbers to firefighters, each gopher has a personality. It’s offbeat and might even raise eyebrows, but the creativity and community effort behind it make this museum a light-hearted, fun roadside gem.
Magnetic Hill – Moncton, New Brunswick
This optical illusion confounds visitors to this day. Drive to the base of Magnetic Hill, put your car in neutral, and watch as it appears to roll uphill. The phenomenon is due to the surrounding landscape’s layout tricking the eye. There’s also a nearby zoo and water park, so it’s a great stop for families traveling through the Maritimes.
The Enchanted Forest – Revelstoke, British Columbia
A magical break from highway driving, the Enchanted Forest is nestled between towering trees with whimsical fairy tale displays. Over 350 handcrafted figurines and fairytale structures make it a delight for children and adults alike. Visitors can climb the tallest treehouse in British Columbia and paddle through beaver ponds for an immersive, storybook-like adventure.
The UFO Landing Pad – St. Paul, Alberta
In 1967, the town of St. Paul built the world’s first UFO landing pad as a symbol of international peace. It’s become a local curiosity and now includes an adjacent UFO interpretive center. Whether you’re a believer or not, it’s a fun, strange pit stop that showcases the creativity and optimism of small-town Canada.
Wawa Goose – Wawa, Ontario
The iconic Wawa Goose stands tall at the entrance of Wawa, welcoming travelers along the Trans-Canada Highway. This oversized bird has become a symbol of local pride. The statue’s location also offers a scenic overlook and a rest stop, ideal for a travel break and a chance to snap one of Canada’s most well-known roadside photos.
The Bottle Houses – Prince Edward Island
In Cap-Egmont, PEI, artist Édouard Arsenault constructed three structures using over 25,000 recycled glass bottles. These colorful buildings catch and reflect sunlight in beautiful ways. The gardens surrounding the houses are equally picturesque. This eco-friendly attraction is not just visually captivating but also a testament to creative reuse and the island’s artistic soul.
The Moose Statue – Dryden, Ontario
Max the Moose stands tall over the community of Dryden, a beloved and much-photographed landmark. Towering over passing vehicles, Max serves as a fun roadside character and a nod to the region’s abundant wildlife. Stop here for a quick stretch and a photo with one of Canada’s largest roadside animals.
Little Manitou Lake – Watrous, Saskatchewan
Nicknamed the “Dead Sea of Canada,” Little Manitou Lake has mineral-rich waters that allow you to float effortlessly. Just off Highway 365, this natural wonder offers a spa-like experience for weary travelers. There are beach areas, spa services, and charming nearby accommodations, making it more than just a quick stop, it’s a rejuvenating destination.
Murals of Chemainus – Chemainus, British Columbia
Art meets history in this quaint Vancouver Island town, where over 40 large-scale murals decorate buildings and alleyways. Each painting tells part of the town’s story, celebrating Indigenous heritage, pioneers, and coastal life. Chemainus makes for a scenic and educational detour, especially for those who enjoy open-air galleries and local charm.
The World’s Largest Dinosaur – Drumheller, Alberta
Standing at a jaw-dropping 26 meters tall, this Tyrannosaurus rex statue is climbable, yes, you can walk up inside it! Overlooking the badlands, the dinosaur offers a unique view from its gaping mouth. Located in the dinosaur capital of Canada, it’s a thrilling stop that sets the tone for exploring the fossil-rich region.
The Big Fiddle – Sydney, Nova Scotia
Located at the Sydney waterfront, this five-story tall violin celebrates Cape Breton’s Celtic music heritage. It’s not just for show—the fiddle occasionally plays traditional tunes from speakers. It’s a cultural landmark and great for photos, particularly with the harbor as a backdrop. Whether or not you’re into music, its grandeur is hard to ignore.
Screaming Heads – Burk’s Falls, Ontario
Artist Peter Camani’s surreal sculptures rise from fields and forests in this massive outdoor art installation. Dozens of giant concrete heads, hands, and castles sprawl across his property, creating a gothic fantasyland. It’s eerie, beautiful, and totally unique—a perfect roadside mystery to wander through and ponder.
Watson Lake Sign Post Forest – Watson Lake, Yukon
A global collection of over 90,000 signs creates a surreal forest of messages left by travelers. It began in 1942 with a homesick soldier and has since grown into one of the Yukon’s most famous attractions. Bring your own sign to add to the collection and be part of a decades-long tradition.
Marble Canyon – Kootenay National Park, British Columbia
Easily accessible from the roadside, Marble Canyon offers turquoise glacial waters slicing through limestone cliffs. A network of footbridges gives breathtaking views of waterfalls and narrow chasms. It’s a quick yet spectacular hike perfect for breaking up a long drive through the Rockies.
The Big Potato – O’Leary, Prince Edward Island
In the heart of potato country, this oversized spud marks the Canadian Potato Museum. Beyond its humorous appearance, the museum provides insight into the island’s most famous crop and agricultural heritage. Stop for a selfie, then stay for the surprisingly fascinating exhibits (and maybe some potato-based snacks).
Old Quebec – Quebec City, Quebec
Though not exactly a secret roadside spot, detouring into Old Quebec from the highway is always worth it. Cobblestone streets, historic stone buildings, and vibrant cafés make this UNESCO World Heritage site feel like stepping into a European village. Even a couple of hours here can be deeply enriching.
The Singing Sands – Basin Head, Prince Edward Island
At Basin Head, the sand literally sings beneath your feet due to its high silica content. The effect is more of a squeak than a song, but it’s an unforgettable sensory experience. The beach is beautiful and family-friendly, making this detour both whimsical and relaxing.
The Big Apple – Colborne, Ontario
One of Ontario’s most beloved roadside attractions, the Big Apple is exactly what it sounds like, a gigantic apple you can actually go inside. There’s also a bakery, petting zoo, and mini-golf course, making it a family-friendly pit stop. Don’t leave without trying the fresh apple pie, it’s locally legendary.
Spotted Lake – Osoyoos, British Columbia
This saline lake forms large, colorful spots in the summer due to mineral evaporation. The result is an otherworldly landscape that’s sacred to the Syilx First Nation. While the lake is fenced off for protection, a viewpoint offers stunning photos and educational plaques share its significance and science.
Jellybean Row – St. John’s, Newfoundland
These vibrantly colored row houses on the steep hills of St. John’s are iconic. A short detour into the city gives travelers a chance to enjoy Newfoundland’s charm and snap colorful street shots. Paired with friendly locals and fresh sea air, it’s one of Canada’s most photogenic roadside stops.
Tunnels of Moose Jaw – Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan
Go underground and explore theatrical tours telling the story of Prohibition-era bootlegging and early Chinese immigrants in Moose Jaw’s historic tunnels. These immersive experiences combine history with storytelling, creating a unique and informative detour that adds depth to a road trip through the prairies.
The Viking Village – L’Anse aux Meadows, Newfoundland
Though remote, this UNESCO World Heritage site is where Norse explorers landed over 1,000 years ago. A living history museum lets visitors step into recreated Viking structures. The wild northern coast and deep history make this an enriching, off-the-beaten-path stop.
Pisew Falls – Northern Manitoba
Far from the main highways, Pisew Falls roars through boreal forest in a thundering spectacle. A boardwalk takes visitors right to the edge for dramatic views. Its remoteness is part of the charm, those who make the detour are rewarded with a raw, natural wonder few others get to see.
The Desert in Canada – Osoyoos, British Columbia
It surprises many to learn Canada has a desert, but Osoyoos features arid landscapes and unique plant species. Visit the Osoyoos Desert Centre for a boardwalk stroll and ecological education. The landscape stands in stark contrast to the mountains and forests most associate with Canada, making it a fascinating diversion.
22 Times Canadian Ingenuity Left the U.S. in the Dust
When people think of innovation, they often picture Silicon Valley. However, Canada has a history of innovation, too. Whether it’s redefining sports, revolutionizing medicine, or just showing America up at its own game, Canadian inventors, thinkers, and dreamers have had their fair share of mic-drop moments. Here are 22 times Canadian ingenuity left the U.S. in the dust.
22 Times Canadian Ingenuity Left the U.S. in the Dust
