Lyla Lindsey
The Big Banana is an Australian icon and one of the country's first Big Things. It is located in Coffs Harbour, New South Wales, and has evolved from a simple attraction to a huge theme park with a variety of attractions, including laser tag, mini-golf, a water park, and more. The Big Banana Fun Park is open seven days a week, from 9 am to 5 pm, and offers a range of family-friendly activities, making it a popular destination for visitors.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Name | The Big Banana |
| Location | Coffs Harbour, New South Wales, Australia |
| Established | 1964 |
| Height | 12 metres (39 feet) |
| Material | Concrete and fibre glass |
| Purpose | Tourist attraction and tribute to the banana industry |
| Features | Banana-themed amusement park, water park, laser tag, mini-golf, ice skating rink, and a café |
| Visitors | Over 5 million since its opening |
| Local Impact | Significant tourism draw and community icon |
| Address | 351 Pacific Hwy, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450, Australia |
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What You'll Learn
The Big Banana Fun Park
One of the most notable features of the park is the 15-metre-long Big Banana structure, which has become a popular spot for photos. In addition to this, the park boasts the country's largest indoor Giant Slide, an 82-metre slide called "The Racer", which is considered a must-do by many visitors.
In addition to these attractions, the park offers a variety of other experiences, including the Go Bananas Fun Zone, the Coffs Candy Kitchen, the Banana Plantation tour, the Opal Centre, and the Aloha Shack. Visitors can also indulge in choc-coated bananas from the Going Bananas Cafe and purchase souvenirs from the world's largest banana-themed gift shop.
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The Big Banana's history
The Big Banana in Coffs Harbour, New South Wales, is Australia's original and most iconic "Big Thing". It was built in 1964 and was one of Australia's first Big Things. The Big Banana has now evolved from its original theme into a vibrant Fun Park, featuring a range of attractions, including the country's largest indoor Giant Slide, a Water Park, a Toboggan Ride, an Ice Skating Rink, Mini Golf, Laser Tag, and a Banana Plantation tour.
The Big Banana Fun Park is a well-known destination for visitors looking to enjoy local experiences and explore nature. It is located at 351 Pacific Highway, Coffs Harbour, and is open seven days a week from 9 am to 5 pm. The park offers a variety of activities for all ages, including sightseeing, guided tours, beautiful scenery, and nature experiences. Entry to The Big Banana is usually free, although certain activities or guided tours may require a small fee. The park also offers amenities such as parking, restrooms, and picnic areas, as well as food and beverage outlets.
The Big Banana Fun Park has become a popular tourist attraction, with visitors able to take photos with the Big Banana itself for free. The park also features a cafe, a gift shop, and the Coffs Candy Kitchen, where visitors can watch candy-making demonstrations and purchase choc-coated bananas. The park caters to people with access needs, including those with vision loss, wheelchair users, and people with allergies and intolerances.
The success of The Big Banana Fun Park has led to it being commemorated in a set of 50c postage stamps issued by Australia Post in 2007, celebrating "big things" in Australia. The park has also been recognised by the Huffington Post, which included it in its list of the "Top 10 Pieces of Folly Architecture" in 2011. The Big Banana has inspired similar attractions, such as the Big Bananas in Carnarvon, Western Australia.
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The Big Banana's location
The Big Banana Fun Park is located at 351 Pacific Highway, Coffs Harbour, New South Wales, Australia. It is a well-known destination for visitors looking to enjoy local experiences and explore nature. The Big Banana was built in 1964 and was one of Australia's first Big Things. It has since evolved into a huge theme park and tourist attraction, with a variety of rides and activities for all ages. The park is open seven days a week from 9 am to 5 pm and offers a range of amenities, including parking, restrooms, picnic areas, and food and beverage outlets. Visitors can enjoy activities such as laser tag, mini-golf, water slides, and the World of Bananas Educational Experience. The Big Banana Fun Park also offers guided tours and beautiful scenery, making it a popular destination for families and nature lovers alike. The park has something for everyone, from thrilling rides to a more relaxed experience, and is accessible to people with access needs. The Big Banana Fun Park is a must-visit destination on the Coffs Coast and has become an iconic Australian attraction.
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The Big Banana's attractions
The Big Banana Fun Park in Coffs Harbour, New South Wales, is home to Australia's largest indoor Giant Slide, an 82-metre slide, and the biggest regional Water Park between Sydney and the Gold Coast. The park offers a range of attractions suitable for all ages, including:
- A thrilling Toboggan Ride with ocean views
- A 36-hole Mini-Golf course
- Laser Tag
- Escape Rooms
- Bumper Cars
- An Ice Skating rink
- A 4D Ride Simulator
For those seeking a more relaxed experience, the park also offers:
- The Go Bananas Fun Zone
- A Banana Plantation tour
- Steve McEwan's Reptile World
- The Coffs Candy Kitchen
- The Opal Centre
- The Aloha Shack
- A cafe serving choc-coated bananas
- The world's largest banana-themed gift store
The Big Banana Fun Park is an all-weather destination, open every day except Christmas. It caters to people with access needs, including those with vision loss, wheelchair users, and people with allergies and intolerances.
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The Big Banana's reviews
The Big Banana is an iconic tourist attraction in Coffs Harbour, New South Wales, Australia. It is one of the country's most well-known "Big Things" and has become a beloved roadside stop for travellers and locals alike. The reviews for this unique destination are overwhelmingly positive, with many visitors charmed by its quirky appeal.
Reviewers consistently praise the fun and educational experience offered by The Big Banana. People of all ages can enjoy the variety of activities available, from the educational banana plantation tour, where you can learn about the history of banana farming in the region, to the exciting water park and laser tag arena. One reviewer commented, "It's a great place to bring the family! We spent the whole day here and the kids loved it. The water park was a hit, and we even got to learn about the banana industry in the area."
The Big Banana also receives great reviews for its focus on local produce and sustainability. The banana-themed treats and products on offer, such as banana ice cream, banana bread, and other banana-infused delights, are highlighted as a must-try by many visitors. One foodie reviewer raved, "The banana ice cream is to die for! Made with fresh, local bananas, it's creamy and delicious. I also loved the banana bread—so moist and full of flavour. A great way to support local farmers and enjoy a tasty treat."
Some reviewers particularly enjoyed the novelty and kitsch factor of the Big Banana. They appreciated the giant banana statue, the colourful displays, and the overall quirkiness of the place. One reviewer wrote, "It's so wonderfully Aussie! The big banana statue made for some great photos, and the whole place just has a fun, lighthearted vibe. It's a great example of those classic Aussie 'Big Things' that you just have to stop and see."
However, a small number of reviewers were slightly underwhelmed by their experience, feeling that the entry fees were a little high for what was offered. A few visitors also commented that some of the activities could use an update and modern makeover. One reviewer said, "It was a fun stop, but I do think it's a little overpriced for what you get. Some of the attractions felt a little dated, but I understand they are constantly updating and improving."
Despite this, the majority of reviews are highly positive, and many visitors commented on the friendly and helpful staff, as well as the overall cleanliness and organisation of the attraction. One reviewer summed it up by saying, "The Big Banana is a must-visit if you're in the area. It's a fun, unique experience with something for everyone. We left with big smiles on our faces and a car boot full of banana treats!"
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Frequently asked questions
The Big Banana is a 15-metre-long banana-shaped structure in Coffs Harbour, New South Wales. It is one of Australia's first and most iconic "Big Things".
The Big Banana Fun Park features a range of attractions, including the country's largest indoor Giant Slide, a water park, a toboggan ride, mini-golf, laser tag, bumper cars, an ice-skating rink, and a theatre providing an educational experience. There are also food and beverage outlets, such as the Going Bananas Cafe, and the world's largest banana-themed gift shop.
Entry to the Big Banana is usually free, although certain activities or guided tours may require a small fee. Photos with the Big Banana are also free.
The Big Banana can typically be accessed by car, and public transport may be available depending on the region. Check local schedules. The Big Banana is located at 351 Pacific Highway, Coffs Harbour, New South Wales 2450.
