Road Trip Through NSW to See Australia’s Big Things

Australia’s eastern state of New South Wales is home to many of these big things. From a banana to a prawn, animals to a potato, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing which big thing to visit on a road trip in your Dollar rental car. Lucky for you, we’ll lead you the way with this road trip guide so that you can visit them all. 

Coffs Harbour’s Big Banana 

Coffs Harbour on the New South Wales northern coast makes for the perfect place to embark on your road trip from. This seaside city is brimming with sun swept beaches and rolling tides, as well as—of course—he Big Banana Fun Park. Before you head out to the Big Banana, make sure to check out the popular Jetty Beach. Loved by locals and visitors alike, this parcel of paradise is perfect for a day on the sand or frolicking in the calm water. Families will love this beach, with the Jetty Foreshore Park an additional perk for kids wanting to have a go at the playground. Once you’re ready to see the biggest banana you’ve ever seen, head to the iconic Fun Park. In addition to the bright yellow smile of the banana, the Fun Park is also home to a variety of action-packed activities, from escape rooms to laser tag, a giant slide to mini golf. While you’re staying in Coffs Harbour, if you want to extend your road trip journey a little further, consider a day trip to Australia’s Big Prawn in Ballina, about two hours’ drive north of Coffs Harbour. The Big Prawn is a sight to be seen, standing at 9 metres tall. You won’t want to forget your camera for this one! 

The Hunter Valley’s Big Kookaburra 

Journey south of Coffs Harbour along the coast for 4 hours and you’ll find yourself in the town of Kurri Kurri. Situated in the sunswept region of the Hunter Valley, Kurri Kurri is famously home to the Big Kookaburra. While the average kookaburra that you can spot in the trees can range from 28 to 47 centimetres tall, this ode to the iconic Australian bird stands at almost 5 metres tall. An important figure to the country’s native wildlife, the kookaburra is known for its loud laughing call that sounds almost like a song of the Australian bush. While you’re traveling through Kurri Kurri, make sure to also check out the town’s mural project. This open air gallery is famously the largest outdoor art display on the Australian mainland.  

Robertson’s Big Potato 

Your journey to the big foods of Australia isn’t over just yet. Travel 3 hours south of Kurri Kurri in your Dollar rental car to New South Wales’ Southern Highlands and you’ll discover the town of Roberton/Yarrawa’s iconic Big Potato. While not as glamorous as the other big things, the Big Potato is an important symbol of Robertson’s potato farming history. This quirky attraction fell into disarray over the years, until the time came in 2008, the Year of the Potato, to tidy it up. Now, the Big Potato welcomes visitors from all over and even wears a cheeky smile for the Robertson Show each year. If you’re wanting another dose of Roberton’s history, head to Roberton’s Heritage Railway Station. Immaculately maintained to replicate a train station of yesteryear, there’s even a museum for you to learn all about the train station and town’s rich history. 

Goulburn’s Big Merino 

The final stop on your big thing road trip around NSW is the historic town of Goulburn Big Merino. Famously the world’s largest merino, this giant sheep stands at a massive three-storeys high. Like the Big Potato, the Big Merino was erected in honour of Goulburn’s fine wool industry. Visit the gift shop next door to discover an assortment of gifts and clothing made out of merino wool, which you’ll be able to bring a home with you. As you finish off your big thing road trip, spend some time wandering around Goulburn and taking in the scenery. A historic town that has beautifully maintained its heritage buildings over the course of history, embarking on a self-guided heritage tour of Goulburn is both a brilliant way to enjoy the town’s heritage architecture, as well as top off an incredible trip with a scenic stroll. 

Whether you’re on the hunt for a big fruit or vegetable or you’re keeping a look out for big animals, there are plenty of iconic big things to visit as you travel around New South Wales in your Dollar rental car. From Coffs Harbour to Goulburn, just follow this guide to experience the biggest attractions Australia’s towns and cities have to offer.