Big Nickel
Marvel at the world's largest nickel, a colossal 30-foot coin celebrating Sudbury's mining legacy. Explore Dynamic Earth's interactive exhibits and mi...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Big Nickel
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Marvel at the world's largest nickel, a colossal 30-foot coin celebrating Sudbury's mining legacy. Explore Dynamic Earth's interactive exhibits and mine tours.
"It's big... it's nickley, and it's still really cool after all these years away from Sudbury."
📸 Selfie Central
Strike a pose! Everyone holds the Big Nickel for that classic tourist shot.
⛏️ Mine Tour Adventure
Don't miss the underground mine tour at Dynamic Earth for a real feel of mining history.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The World's Largest Nickel
Big Nickel Road, Sudbury
A colossal 30-foot replica of a Canadian 5-cent coin, celebrating Sudbury's mining heritage. Perfect for iconic photos!
Dynamic Earth Exhibits
Adjacent to the Big Nickel
Explore interactive displays on geology and mining, including a simulated underground mine tour. Educational and fun for all ages.
Pumpkinferno (Seasonal)
Big Nickel Site
During Halloween, the site transforms into a magical display of over 7,000 hand-carved, illuminated pumpkins. A unique seasonal spectacle.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to the Big Nickel
Beyond the Nickel: Dynamic Earth
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Selfie Central
Strike a pose! Everyone holds the Big Nickel for that classic tourist shot.
⛏️ Mine Tour Adventure
Don't miss the underground mine tour at Dynamic Earth for a real feel of mining history.
🛍️ Gift Shop Treasures
The gift shop has a fantastic selection of unique items, you might want to buy the whole place!
🚗 Road Trip Stop
A perfect roadside attraction on any Northern Ontario road trip.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Selfie Central
Strike a pose! Everyone holds the Big Nickel for that classic tourist shot.
⛏️ Mine Tour Adventure
Don't miss the underground mine tour at Dynamic Earth for a real feel of mining history.
🛍️ Gift Shop Treasures
The gift shop has a fantastic selection of unique items, you might want to buy the whole place!
🚗 Road Trip Stop
A perfect roadside attraction on any Northern Ontario road trip.
💡 Educational Insights
Read the signs outside to learn about the area's geology and mining history.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Big Nickel as an iconic and impressive landmark, a must-see for its sheer size and historical significance. The adjacent Dynamic Earth attraction receives high marks for its engaging exhibits and educational underground mine tour, making it a great family destination. While some note that there isn't much else to do beyond the main attractions, the overall experience is considered enjoyable and worthwhile for a photo opportunity and a glimpse into Sudbury's mining heritage.
"It's big... it's nickley, and it's still really cool after all these years away from Sudbury. Make sure you visit the gift shop. I could buy the whole place. :) I loved reading all the educational signs outside about how scientists read the markings and shape of the rocks to determine the geological history of the area."
Jason Baskerville
"It's a good place for pictures and for drone shots. We didn't do the mine tour this time, but we did it a few years back, and it was good. Not much else.to do."
Rob
"Loved the underground tour. The many geological exhibits were very interesting. The hands on lapidairy stone polishing area was fantastic fun. The gift shop is excellent."
Kevin James
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Big Nickel is located on Big Nickel Road in Sudbury, Ontario. It's easily accessible by car and is a prominent landmark visible from a distance. Many visitors include it as a stop on their Ontario road trips.
Yes, there is ample parking available at the Big Nickel and the adjacent Dynamic Earth facility. Parking is generally included with admission to Dynamic Earth.
You can view and take photos with the Big Nickel from the exterior without purchasing admission to Dynamic Earth. However, to access the exhibits and the mine tour, a ticket to Dynamic Earth is required.
While public transport options exist in Sudbury, it's most convenient to reach the Big Nickel by car. Check local transit schedules for specific routes and stops.
Many travelers incorporate the Big Nickel as a key stop on their Northern Ontario road trips, often combining it with other attractions like Science North or the Inco Superstack.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Viewing the Big Nickel from the outside is free. However, to access the Dynamic Earth science center, including its exhibits and the underground mine tour, you will need to purchase tickets.
Operating hours for Dynamic Earth can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Science North website for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.
Admission to the Big Nickel itself is free. Ticket prices for Dynamic Earth vary depending on the package and age group. Check their website for current pricing.
Yes, booking your tickets for Dynamic Earth online in advance is highly recommended, especially if you plan to take the underground mine tour, as spots can fill up quickly.
Yes, the Big Nickel site hosts seasonal events like Pumpkinferno during Halloween, which requires a separate ticket.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Big Nickel is part of the Dynamic Earth attraction, which offers interactive exhibits on mining and geology, an underground mine tour, and educational displays.
Many visitors find the underground mine tour to be a highlight, offering an educational and immersive experience into Sudbury's mining history.
Absolutely! The Big Nickel is an iconic landmark and a popular spot for photos. Many visitors take selfies and drone shots.
The geological exhibits at Dynamic Earth are very interesting, with hands-on areas like stone polishing that are fantastic fun for visitors of all ages.
Yes, Dynamic Earth offers many interactive and hands-on exhibits that are engaging for children, making it a great family destination.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Dynamic Earth typically has a cafe or snack bar offering light refreshments. For more extensive dining, you'll find options in downtown Sudbury.
While outside food might be permitted in designated picnic areas, it's best to check the specific policies of Dynamic Earth regarding outside food and beverages.
Expect typical cafe fare like snacks, drinks, and light meals at Dynamic Earth. It's a good place for a quick bite during your visit.
Yes, there are various restaurants and fast-food options available in Sudbury, particularly as you head towards the downtown area.
Prices at the cafe are generally in line with typical attraction pricing. Bringing your own snacks can be a budget-friendly option.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon often provides softer light for photography. Weekdays also mean fewer people in your shots.
Drone usage is typically regulated. It's essential to check Transport Canada regulations and any specific rules set by Dynamic Earth or the City of Sudbury before flying a drone.
The base of the Big Nickel and the surrounding grounds offer numerous excellent spots for selfies and group photos.
Visitors often capture wide shots of the entire nickel, close-ups of its details, and creative shots like people 'holding' the coin.
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage may require special permits. Always be respectful of other visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚗 Road Trippers
💰 Budget Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of the Big Nickel
Its presence highlights Sudbury's global significance in nickel production. The area's geology is unique, making it one of the richest nickel-producing regions in the world. The Big Nickel serves as a constant reminder of this vital industry and its impact on the region's development and identity.
Today, the Big Nickel is managed by Science North and is a key part of the Dynamic Earth attraction. This integration allows visitors to not only marvel at the giant coin but also delve into the science and history behind mining through interactive exhibits and an underground mine tour, offering a comprehensive understanding of Sudbury's industrial heritage.
Exploring Dynamic Earth: Beyond the Nickel
A major highlight of Dynamic Earth is the underground mine tour. This simulated experience takes you deep beneath the earth's surface, allowing you to feel what it's like to work in a mine. You'll learn about the tools, techniques, and challenges faced by miners, making it a truly educational and memorable part of your visit. The exhibits also feature fascinating geological displays and even a hands-on lapidary area for polishing stones.
Dynamic Earth also plays host to seasonal events, such as the popular Pumpkinferno during the Halloween season. This event transforms the Big Nickel site into a magical wonderland with thousands of illuminated, hand-carved pumpkins, creating a unique festive atmosphere. It's a testament to how the site continues to evolve and offer new experiences for visitors throughout the year.
Photography Tips for the Big Nickel
If you have a drone, the Big Nickel offers a unique aerial perspective. However, always ensure you are aware of and comply with all local drone regulations and any specific rules set by the attraction. For those interested in capturing the surrounding landscape or the intricate details of the coin's design, a wider lens can help showcase its immensity, while a zoom lens can focus on the textures and historical inscriptions.
Remember that the Big Nickel is part of the Dynamic Earth attraction, so you'll find plenty of opportunities for photography there as well, from the interactive exhibits to the simulated mine environment. Be mindful of other visitors and always practice respectful photography, especially if using tripods or specialized equipment.


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