The Big Duck In New York Just Might Be The Strangest Roadside Attraction Yet
By Lea Monroe|Published February 21, 2020
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Lea Monroe
Author
Writer for Only In Your State. Scribbling about all things New York and Buffalo related while also keeping you updated on the latest travel news! Inquiries: Lmonroe@onlyinyourstate.com
Anyone who’s taken the time to travel around our state will tell you that on almost any road trip they’ve ever taken here, they’ve found themselves pulling over at least once along the way to check out a roadside attraction that never even knew existed until that very moment. Oftentimes, the places that we’re pulling over to further investigate are simple little roadside eateries and shops that provide us with a great reason to stretch our legs – just take a look at how eye-catching the Big Moose Deli is out in Hoosick Falls! If you’re ready to stumble upon something even more strange though, then you’re going to find yourself quickly doing a double-take once you discover this massive duck in the town of Flanders. See for yourself.
Situated along the roadside in the town of Flanders, it's a bird, it's a plane - nope, that's just The Big Duck of New York!
No, your eyes aren't playing tricks on you, The Big Duck is a massive roadside attraction here in our state that was built nearby back in 1931, standing at 20-feet tall and even equipped with eyes made out of Ford Model T tail lights.
Brought to life by duck farmer, Martin Maurer, The Big Duck was originally used as a shop to sell Maurer's ducks and duck eggs until the business shut down in the 1980s.
After moving from Riverhead to Flanders and coming under the ownership of Suffolk County, today you can pull over along the roadside to get your own picture with New York's most massive duck.
Highlighting all sorts of duck-related things, visiting The Big Duck in Flanders is a fun yet strange way to explore Long Island’s history with duck farming industry. Did you know that back in the 1930s there were nearly 100 duck farms up and running in this area of New York?
Interested in making your trip to The Big Duck even more special? Well, you can always start planning your holiday trip! For more than 30-years, each Christmas season The Big Duck gets decked out in holiday garland and lights for all to see.
Hours:
Sunday through Friday - 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Saturday - 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.