This small province is sandwiched between Bangkok and the sea to the south. The Chao Phraya River runs through its center and empties into the Gulf of Thailand.

World's Largest Crocodile
Because Samutprakarn is a short drive from Bangkok, overnight stays are not necessary to view its few attractions; but two major attractions are well worth visiting. Firstly, Samutprakarn Crocodile Farm and Zoo, a collection of over 60,000 crocs in one park ranging from babies to 20-footers. The largest captive crocodile, an Estuarine/Siamese hybrid answering to the name of "Yai," eats his lunch here! The park layout allows visitors close views of the reptiles in relative safety, but don't be fooled into thinking their placid demeanor makes them cute and harmless; they are neither, so keep your distance.

The Ancient City
The other attraction, not much further along the road is The Ancient City. Touted as the largest open-air museum in the world, this 80-hectare park contains more than 100, scale replicas of the major monuments around Thailand – some of them really big. It is a pleasant environment for a picnic as well, and one can easily spend the whole day here.

Erawan Museum
The elephant shaped museum is made from bronze. The elephant stands on a round pink pedestal decorated with countless little tiles. The design of all three floors represents three worlds according to an ancient belief. The first floor demonstrates various antiques and exhibits the objective of the construction while the second floor shows several elaborate artistic objects with stained glass ceiling illustrating world map and zodiac. The top one, which is the body of the elephant, displays Buddha’s relics and old statues from different periods. Its painted ceiling reflects the cosmos depicting the sun, the moon and groups of stars. Elaborate embellishments are visible around the museum from a lavishly adorned staircase to carved pillars.