Big Rocking Horse Gumeracha
Climb the world's largest rocking horse, feed friendly animals, and explore a charming toy factory in the Adelaide Hills.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Big Rocking Horse Gumeracha
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Climb the world's largest rocking horse, feed friendly animals, and explore a charming toy factory in the Adelaide Hills.
"A fantastic place to visit with stunning views and friendly animals – great for families!"
Bring Cash for Feed
Animal feed bags are popular and best purchased with cash. :moneybag:
Check for Updates
Recent news may impact operations; check before you go. :newspaper:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Big Rocking Horse
Main Attraction
Climb 18 meters inside the world's largest rocking horse for panoramic views of the Adelaide Hills.
Friendly Animal Park
Adjacent to the main attraction
Feed and interact with kangaroos, wallabies, alpacas, and other charming farm animals.
Wooden Toy Factory & Shop
Onsite
Discover beautifully crafted wooden toys and unique souvenirs, perfect for gifts.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to the Big Rocking Horse
Animal Encounters & Activities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Cash for Feed
Animal feed bags are popular and best purchased with cash. :moneybag:
Check for Updates
Recent news may impact operations; check before you go. :newspaper:
Climb for the Views
The 18m climb offers stunning Adelaide Hills vistas. :camerawithflash:
Kid-Friendly Fun
Great for families; kids love feeding the animals. :child:
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Cash for Feed
Animal feed bags are popular and best purchased with cash. :moneybag:
Check for Updates
Recent news may impact operations; check before you go. :newspaper:
Climb for the Views
The 18m climb offers stunning Adelaide Hills vistas. :camerawithflash:
Kid-Friendly Fun
Great for families; kids love feeding the animals. :child:
Toy Factory Treasures
Unique handmade wooden toys make great souvenirs. :gift:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Big Rocking Horse for its iconic status, friendly animals, and family-friendly atmosphere. The climb offers great views, and the toy factory adds a unique charm. While the cafe menu is somewhat limited, the overall experience is highly recommended for a fun day out in the Adelaide Hills.
"The Big Rocking Horse is a fantastic place to visit! The giant rocking horse is iconic, and the view from the top is beautiful. The animal park is lovely, with friendly animals you can feed, making it great for families and kids. The cafe serves good coffee and snacks, though the menu is a bit limited. They also have a gift store where you can buy yourself some nice souvenirs to remember the trip. The staff are welcoming and helpful, and it’s a fun spot to stop and relax. Highly recommend 🥰"
SHERPA YANG DOLMU
"The Rocking Horse is an iconic must see attraction in the Adelaide Hills. It was wonderful to see it again after 17 years. The animal park there is quite good with a mixture of animals and the gift shop is big and full of items including hand made wooden toys. There is also mini golf, cafe and beautiful murals on the outside of the public toilets."
Jason Parry
"Big Rocking Horse, Adelaide – Great Family Spot
We visited today and really enjoyed it! Entry to the Big Rocking Horse is only $2 per person, which is great value. Climbing to the top is fun but a bit hard for older people since it’s all ladders — kids will love it!
There’s a nice café next to the horse with good food at reasonable prices. The animal park beside it costs $7 per person, where you can feed and touch the animals — great fun for children and adults too. Toilets are available and clean.
Overall, a fun, affordable, and family-friendly place to visit!"
ANOOP K V
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Big Rocking Horse is located in Gumeracha, about an hour's drive east of Adelaide. Take the A13 towards the Adelaide Hills and follow signs for Gumeracha. Parking is ample onsite. :car:
Public transport options are limited. It's best to drive or consider a tour that includes the Adelaide Hills region. :bus:
The most scenic route is via the Adelaide Hills, taking roads like the Mount Barker Road or Gorge Road, depending on your starting point. :road:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the grounds is generally free, but there are charges for specific activities like climbing the horse and entering the animal park. Animal feed bags are also an additional cost. :ticket:
Booking in advance is usually not necessary for general entry, but it's always a good idea to check their official website for any special events or booking requirements, especially during peak seasons. :computer:
Opening hours can vary, so it's recommended to check the official Big Rocking Horse website or their social media pages for the most up-to-date information before your visit. :clock:
Yes, you can climb inside the Big Rocking Horse for a fee. It's an iconic experience offering great views from the top. :arrow_up:
Information on discounts for groups, families, or specific times is best found on their official website or by contacting them directly. :moneywithwings:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can climb the giant rocking horse, feed friendly animals in the park, explore the wooden toy factory, enjoy the cafe, and browse the gift shop. :star2:
Absolutely! The animal park is a huge hit with kids, and the overall atmosphere is very family-friendly. Some younger children might be intimidated by the size of the horse initially. :child_care:
You can expect to see kangaroos, wallabies, alpacas, goats, ponies, ducks, and various native birds. :parrot:
Yes, photography is encouraged! The giant horse itself, the animals, and the surrounding Adelaide Hills scenery make for great photo opportunities. :camera:
While not explicitly advertised, Wi-Fi availability might be limited. It's best to download any necessary information or maps beforehand. :iphone:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There's a cafe on-site offering coffee, snacks, and light meals. Some visitors have enjoyed the unique candy floss machine that customizes designs. :coffee:
Picnic areas are often available at attractions like this, but it's best to confirm with the venue directly. Otherwise, the cafe is a convenient option. :sandwich:
Menu options can vary. It's advisable to check the cafe's current offerings or inquire upon arrival for specific dietary needs. :leaf:
Gumeracha and nearby towns like Hahndorf offer a wider range of dining experiences, from local pubs to cafes and restaurants. :forkandknife:
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior of the giant rocking horse, the animal enclosures (especially during feeding times), and the panoramic views from the top of the horse are prime photo locations. :camerawithflash:
Drone usage is typically restricted at tourist attractions to ensure safety and privacy. Always check the venue's policy before flying a drone. :drone:
Getting a photo with the iconic rocking horse in the background is a must. Interacting with the friendly animals also makes for memorable shots. :camera:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+2 The opportunity to climb inside the giant rocking horse offers an exciting adventure, and many children receive a certificate upon completion. The onsite cafe provides convenient options for snacks and light meals, and the toy factory offers a chance to find unique souvenirs. Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid larger crowds and ensure a more relaxed experience for your little ones. 🚗 Day-Trippers from Adelaide
The ample parking makes it easy to access, and the variety of activities ensures there's something for everyone. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The animal park also presents chances for wildlife and interaction shots, especially during feeding times. Capture the vibrant colours of the wooden toys in the factory or the charming details of the cafe. Remember to check any venue policies regarding drone usage if that's part of your photography plans. :camera:Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Big Rocking Horse: A Climb to Remember
+1While the climb is a highlight, it's important to note that the interior can be warm, especially on hot days. It's advisable to wear comfortable clothing and perhaps bring a small water bottle. The experience is generally well-managed, with staff ensuring a smooth flow of visitors. The sheer scale of the horse is often a surprise to first-time visitors, making it a truly iconic South Australian sight.
Animal Encounters and Welfare
+3Recent discussions on Reddit have touched upon animal welfare concerns and a reported feud involving a goat breeder, leading to some negative reviews.
+2Beyond the Horse: Toy Factory and Local Charm
The venue also features a cafe that serves coffee, snacks, and light meals. Some visitors have noted the unique candy floss machine that can create custom designs, adding a fun, nostalgic touch to the experience.
+1 The overall atmosphere is described as having a welcoming, nostalgic charm, making it a pleasant stop for a relaxing day out in the Adelaide Hills. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit