11 Things That Are 20 feet (ft) Long or Big

11 Things That Are 20 feet (ft) Long or Big

Grasping measurements can be challenging, particularly when trying to visualize a length such as 20 feet. In this article, we'll clarify what 20 feet actually represents, how to measure it correctly, and what it feels like to walk that distance.

Additionally, we'll look at 11 real-world examples—from limousines to dragon boats—to assist you in picturing this length in familiar contexts.

How Long Are 20 Feet?

Twenty feet (20 ft) is a surprisingly universal measurement that pops up in many everyday contexts. In numerical terms, 20 feet equals 240 inches or about 6.1 meters. In metric terms, 20 ft converts to approximately 609.6 centimeters or 0.006096 kilometers. 

Whether you're comparing it to a human's height, figuring out how long is 20 feet visually, or planning a project at home, this measurement offers a solid benchmark.

How to Measure 20 Feet Accurately

Measuring 20 feet accurately can be straightforward with a tape measure that shows feet and inches. If you don’t have a tape measure, you can use a regular 12-inch ruler and measure its length 20 times, or divide the distance into smaller parts.

To ensure accuracy, double-check your measurement by confirming that the markings align properly with the intended distance.

How Long is 20 Feet to Walk?

Walking 20 feet may seem like a short distance, but it provides a useful way to visualize space. Typically, a person takes about 8 to 10 steps to cover this distance, which is approximately 6.67 yards. If you're curious about what 20 feet looks like in your living room or office, just count your steps. 

When a person walks at a pace of 3 miles per hour (4.8 km per hour), they cover 20 feet in about 4.6 seconds.

1. Limousines

Limousines Size


Picture a sleek, elongated limousine smoothly cruising down the street. Many limousines typically measure around 18 feet in length, only 2 feet short, making them an ideal reference point for visualizing this measurement. When you think of something that is 20 ft long, a limousine is often one of the first examples that comes to mind—it's a classic representation of that length.

In addition to their stylish appearance, limousines provide a concrete way to understand scale. If you've ever wondered how long 20 feet is compared to a person, visualizing a limousine can help make that abstract measurement feel more tangible and relatable.

2. Half Tyrannosaurus Rex (T. rex)

T. rex and Human Length/Height Comparison

Dinosaurs have always fascinated us, and the formidable T. rex is no exception. Estimates indicate that a full T-Rex could reach lengths of up to 40 feet (12 meters) long, so half of that massive creature would be about exactly 20 feet. This striking comparison answers the question of how long twenty ft is in a fun and memorable way.

This analogy not only piques interest in natural history but also offers a creative method to visualize 20 feet. It helps clarify questions like how big 20 feet is to an animal and allows you to appreciate the impressive size of these ancient giants.

3. 2 Long Surfboard

Surfboard Length

Surfers frequently use long surfboards that can reach nearly 9 feet in length. So, 2 surfboards make around 18 feet, close to our target length. Imagine a surfboard cutting through the waves—the length not only enhances stability but also serves as a clear visual reference for understanding how long 20 feet really is.

The next time you visit the beach, try comparing the two surfboards to your own stride. It might even lead you to think about how long 20 feet is in meters as you mentally convert measurements, giving you a better sense of this considerable distance along the shore.

4. Four Park Benches

Park Benches Size

Park benches are a familiar sight in urban areas, and their uniform size makes them useful for measuring distances. When you line up four standard park benches end-to-end, you’ll cover approximately 20 feet. Each bench measures about 5 feet (60 inches) in length which provides an easy way to visualize what 20 feet looks like in everyday life.

This practical tip is perfect for anyone interested in understanding the length of twenty feet visually. The next time you visit a park, take a moment to observe the benches as a natural reference—an effortless method to grasp the measurement without needing any special tools.

5. 1/3 of a Hot Air Balloon (Diameter)

Hot Air Balloon Diameter

Hot air balloons are impressive, often having diameters of about 55 feet. If you consider one-third of that diameter, you arrive at a length of roughly 18 to 20 feet. This unique perspective provides an interesting way to visualize how long 20 feet is in a different context.

This creative analogy helps answer questions about how long 20 feet is when compared to larger objects. It also offers a fresh viewpoint, showing that even airborne objects can help us understand measurements on the ground.

6. Ladders

Extension Ladders Size

Many extension ladders used in construction or home improvement projects are typically around 16 feet long, and about 4 feet short but the great 20 feet comparison. Visualizing a ladder of this height helps clarify the vertical distance it covers. This is particularly useful when you want to understand how high 20 ft is or need to know the length when working on tasks that require reaching up high.

Ladders serve not only as practical tools but also as excellent examples of what 20 feet looks like in real life, connecting abstract measurements to tangible experiences.

7. A Giraffe

Giraffe Length

Giraffes are nature’s skyscrapers, reaching impressive heights of up to 18 ft (5.5 m). Standing next to one gives a clear sense of how tall 20 feet really is compared to a human. Their long necks and legs are not only a marvel of evolution but also serve as a recognizable reference point.

For anyone wondering about the height of 20 feet in nature, a giraffe provides a striking visual that is both educational and awe-inspiring.

8. 1/3 Giant Squid Tentacle Length

Giant squids are enveloped in mystery, with tentacles that can stretch up to an incredible 60 feet. One-third of that length is approximately 20 feet, offering a vivid illustration of how long twenty feet are in a marine context.

This fascinating comparison not only sparks curiosity about the deep sea but also helps answer questions about how long 20 feet is in relation to everyday objects. It creatively merges the fantastical with the tangible, providing a fresh perspective on 20-foot measurements.

9. The Flagpoles

Flagpoles Length and Flag Dimension

Flagpoles are typically tall and noticeable, with many standing around 20 feet high that support a flag size of up to 4 ft x 6 ft. Their vertical presence makes them an excellent reference for visualizing how high 20 feet (ft) is in outdoor environments. If you ever find yourself wondering how far 20 feet is when looking up, a flagpole gives a straightforward answer.

This common object serves as a practical benchmark for those curious about how far 20 feet is or who simply need a quick reference for outdoor measurements.

10. Fire Truck

Fire Truck Length

Fire trucks are built for both efficiency and visibility, and many models come in at about 25 feet to 100 feet long. If you look at the 25-foot-long firetruck then just trim the 5 feet, then you close to 20 ft. These vehicles not only illustrate what an object of that size looks like but also provide a striking visual reference when considering how long 20 feet is in real life.

Watching a fire truck in action can clarify several questions—whether it’s about the length of 20 feet or how far that distance is from your viewpoint—making it a memorable example of a 20-foot object.

11. Half Dragon Boat

Fire Truck Length

Dragon boats are long and streamlined, often reaching about 38 feet in length. If you were to split one in half, you'd have a perfect representation of something that measures 19 feet only one feet short. This comparison not only visually demonstrates the length of 20 feet but also offers a unique perspective for sports enthusiasts and boating fans.

If you've ever compared various types of watercraft, you might find yourself wondering how far 20 meters is in feet when stepping aboard. The half-dragon boat serves as an innovative way to grasp the concept of 20 feet in both length and context, connecting recreational design with practical measurement.

Conclusion

From limousines and 2 long surfboards to the towering stature of giraffes, these 11 examples give a clear, real-world perspective on what 20 feet truly looks like. Whether you're converting measurements (like how long is 20 feet in centimeters, inches, or meters), figuring out how far 20 feet is by counting your steps, or simply comparing everyday objects, you now have a toolkit to understand this measurement.

The next time you need to visualize or measure 20 feet—whether you're curious about how high 20 feet looks, wondering how long twenty feet is on a ruler, or even considering how long it takes to fall that distance—keep these relatable examples and practical tips in mind. Step outside, find a familiar landmark, and watch as 20 ft comes to life right before your eyes!