Choose from 290 Fun Things to Do in Canada
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Maligne Lake
With its vivid aquamarine waters and impressive backdrop of jagged, glacier-studded peaks, Maligne Lake has visitors to the Canadian Rockies reaching for their cameras. The glacier-fed lake is the largest in Jasper National Park. Tiny tree-topped Spirit Island stands in the middle of the lake and is the subject of countless postcards.
The Basics
As one of Alberta’s—and indeed Canada’s—most-hyped beauty spots, Maligne Lake is included on many sightseeing tours of the Jasper and Banff regions. Chauffeured sidecar and coach tours generally make stops at natural attractions such as Medicine Lake, Maligne Canyon, and other Rocky Mountain hot spots. Maligne Lake is also often included on the itinerary.
Some half and full-day sightseeing tours incorporate boat cruises on the lake, and guided nature and wildlife-watching walks around the lake. Several backcountry campgrounds, accessible by canoe, are located on the lake’s edge. Canoes can be rented from the Maligne Lake Boathouse.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Moose, grizzly bears, and caribou are known to roam the regions near the lake, making it perfect for wildlife-viewers.
- Maligne Lake is open to paddlers and electric motor boats only.
- Dress in layers as sudden weather changes are common here.
- Part, though not all, of the Mary Schäffer Loop, which winds around the shoreline, is paved and suitable for wheelchair users.
How to Get There
Maligne Lake is at the end of Maligne Lake Road, about 31 miles (50 kilometers) from Jasper. As there is no public transport in the area, the best way for car-free travelers to get here is by organized tour. Driving from Jasper will take about an hour.
When to Get There
The best time to visit Maligne Lake is between late May and early October, when boats and paddlers can go out on the water. Though the north part of the lake can become busy, quieter spots—accessible only on foot or by boat—can always be found to the south. In winter, the frozen lake is peaceful, attracting only a few hardy snowshoers, though road conditions in the park can sometimes make the lake difficult to access.
How to See Spirit Island
In theory, visitors can paddle or kayak to Spirit Island, though it’s about an 8.5-mile (14-kilometer) one-way journey and it can take the best part of a day. Unless you’re a fit, experience kayaker, and have booked a lakeside campsite to stay at, you’re better off doing a Maligne Lake cruise, which will get you out to within view of the island and back in just 90 minutes.
Address: Jasper National Park, Jasper, Alberta, Canada, Canada
Admission: Adults: $9.80; Children: free
From $ 56
Notre Dame Basilica
Notre-Dame Basilica is Montreal’s oldest Catholic church and the venue of Quebec hero Celine Dion’s wedding. The Gothic Revival-style church is one of Canada’s most lavish cathedrals, with stained-glass windows, intricate wood carvings, frescoes, sculptures, and a 7,000-pipe organ all vying for attention beneath a blue ceiling studded with gold stars.
The Basics
Notre-Dame Basilica is a major city attraction featured on hop-on hop-off bus tours and walking tours of Montreal. French and English guided tours are offered daily and are included in the admission price. Tours last 20 or 60 minutes, with the longer guided tour granting access to otherwise out-of-bounds areas in the intricately designed interior, such as the second balcony and part of the crypt. Some tours even allow you to get close to the famous Casavant organ.
Sightseers can also visit independently. After paying admission at the door, take one of the informational leaflets to guide you around the beautiful church.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The basilica is a must-see for architecture fans.
- Dress conservatively to ensure access to the religious site.
- Notre-Dame Basilica is wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
Notre-Dame Basilica is located on Notre-Dame Street West, overlooking the Place d’Armes plaza in Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal). To get there, ride Montreal’s orange metro line to Place d’Armes.
When to Get There
The basilica is open year-round, but occasionally closes for special events such as weddings or funerals. Check ahead of time to make sure it’s open during your visit. Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Chapel (Chapelle Notre-Dame du Sacré-Coeur frequently closes during midday mass and on Saturdays for weddings. For your best chance of viewing it, try visiting in the early morning or late afternoon on a weekday instead.
Seeing Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Chapel (Chapelle Notre-Dame-du-Sacré-Coeur)
Located behind the main altar, the Chapelle Notre-Dame-du-Sacré-Coeur is one of the most eye-catching parts of the church. Rebuilt using traditional methods after the old chapel was destroyed by fire in 1978, it is dominated by a huge 32-panel bronze altarpiece by Quebec sculptor Charles Daudelin.
Address: 110 rue Notre-Dame Ouest, Vieux-Montréal, Montreal H2Y 1T2, Canada
Hours: Open daily: Mon - Fri 9am - 4:30pm, Sat 8am - 4pm, Sun 12:30pm - 4pm
Admission: Adults: C$6, Children (7-17yrs): C$4
From $ 6
Johnston Canyon
Johnston Canyon is one of the most popular day hikes in Banff National Park. It’s a fairly easy hike on man-made trails to reach the canyon’s two waterfalls, making it a great activity for families and people of every fitness level and age. Johnston Creek flows through Johnston Canyon, a deep blue creek that has cut through the limestone rock over centuries on its way to join the Bow River, creating steep canyon walls with waterfalls, pools, and tunnels. The Johnston Canyon hiking trail begins just behind Johnston Canyon Lodge and gets very busy during peak summer hiking hours, with hundreds of hikers following the catwalks and staircases to the canyon’s Lower and Upper Falls. (Try hiking the trail in the very early morning or right before sunset if you’d like to avoid the crowds.) Less than two miles (3km) past the waterfalls are the Ink Pots: several cold, blue-green mineral pools that bubble to the surface in an open meadow beside the creek. During the winter some tour companies offer ice walking tours, and ice-climbing on the falls is also a popular activity.
Practical Info
Johnston Canyon is located on the 1A, about a 30 minute drive from Banff. It is open all year. The campground is usually open from April or May to October, with sites for walk-up campers, vehicles, and RVs. The campground offers showers with hot and cold running water, food lockers, and picnic shelters.
Address: Banff National Park, Banff, Alberta, Canada
Hours: The campground is usually open from April or May to October.
From $ 46
Journey Behind the Falls
Niagara Falls is an incredible sight from land and by boat, but at Journey Behind the Falls visitors who wish to truly experience its massive power can get up close and personal—and wet. Standing on an observation deck behind the falls, where more than one million bathtubs of water thunder over the edge every second, is a truly unforgettable experience of Niagara.
The Basics
At Journey Behind the Falls, visitors descend by elevator to a series of tunnels bored into the rock behind Niagara Falls. The two tunnels, which extend approximately 150 feet (46 meters) behind Horseshoe Falls, lead to views of water cascades right in front of the open cave entrances. The best part is stepping out on the observation deck for a truly different and incredible perspective—you will get very wet, but it’s worth it!
Things to Know Before You Go
- Journey Behind the Falls consists of an observation platform and series of tunnels near the bottom of Horseshoe Falls on the Canadian shore.
- Be prepared for long lines, especially during the popular summer months. The best time to avoid the lines is early in the day.
- Plastic ponchos are provided and are fine for keeping dry in summer. But during cooler months, be sure to bring a raincoat and warm layers.
How to Get There
Journey Behind the Falls is located off Niagara Parkway, directly across from Horseshoe Falls. Enter the tunnels through the Table Rock House, which has visitor information.
When to Get There
Journey Behind the Falls is open year-round. The best time to visit is early in the day. During the summer, there’s also a nighttime fireworks show several times weekly.
Three in One
Niagara Falls is actually composed of three sets of falls: American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and Horseshoe Falls (also known as Canadian Falls). Horseshoe Falls is the cascade behind which Journey Behind the Falls travels. It’s an incredibly popular attraction, whether you’re planning your falls visit from the Ontario (Canada) side or the New York (US) side.
Address: 6650 Niagara Parkway, Niagara Falls L2E 2L5, Canada
Hours: Open daily
Admission: Adults: CA$13.15
From $ 110
Peller Estates Winery
The Peller Estates Winery is one of Niagara-on-the-Lake’s hidden gems with roots that date back to the late 1920s. This iconic destination was started by a Hungarian immigrant who hoped to bring his knowledge of European grapes and wine to North America. The estate is known for its ice wine, Rieslings and Chardonnays, which have been drawing visitors and winning awards for more than 50 years.
Travelers who venture to Peller Estates Winery can opt for one of a number of experiences that cater to wine lovers. From tastings tucked among the vineyards to courses on wine and food pairing. Travelers will find a little bit of everything at this Zagat-rated estate. It’s possible to make a day—or just a short stop—at Peller Estates, but travelers who want to see more of Niagara-on-the-Lakes vineyards can opt for one of the area’s popular wine tours.
Practical Info
Peller Estates Winery and Restaurant is located at 290 John Street East in Niagara-on-the-Lake in Ontario. It is open daily from 10am-9pm.
Travelers driving from Niagara Falls can take River Road/Niagara River Parkway towards Niagara-on-the-Lake and make a left at East and West Line. The entrance for Peller Estates in on the right.
Address: 290 John Street East, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario ON L0S 1J0, Canada
Hours: Daily 10am-9pm
From $ 127
Jean-Talon Market
First opened in 1933, Jean-Talon Market is a local institution. Montrealers come to shop farm-fresh ingredients, from Quebec-reared pork and seafood from the country’s east cost to colorful vegetables, everything from purple carrots to orange cauliflower and strangely shaped gourds—all of which are artfully stacked in sellers’ stalls.
The Basics
Jean-Talon Market offers a top-notch farmers market experience in Montreal. Some Montreal food tours make stops at the market, guiding participants as they sample Quebec-grown crops and artisan goodies. Many food tours combine a visit to Jean-Talon Market with a tour of the surrounding Little Italy neighborhood, as well as the Mile-Ex and Mile End districts, which are known for hip dining, craft beer, and third-wave coffee shops.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Jean-Talon Market is a must for foodies and photographers thanks to its colorful produce displays.
- The market has bathrooms, water fountains, and seating.
- Bring cash as many vendors don’t accept cards. While there is an ATM, lines form during busy periods.
How to Get There
Underground and outdoor parking is available at the market, but unless you plan on buying more than you can carry, it’s best to come by public transit. The nearest metro stations are Jean-Talon (Blue and Orange lines) and De Castelnau (Blue Line), both of which are about five minutes away on foot.
When to Get There
Jean-Talon is open year-round. During winter, walls are erected to protect the covered part of the market from the elements. In warmer months, the walls are removed, and extra open-air stalls are added. On Thursday-Sunday between June and October, the streets around the market are closed to traffic and fill with strollers, shoppers, and buskers.
What to Eat at the Market
Arrive hungry so you can taste a diverse range of Canadian produce at Jean-Talon Market. Start at the produce stalls, where samples of fresh fruit such as mangos, strawberries, and mandarins are often available. Pick up some regional specialties, perhaps native fiddlehead ferns, tourtière (meat pie), cretons (pork spread), or any number of Quebec cheeses. Try La Boite aux Huitres for palate-cleansing oysters or indulge in sweet baked goods at Joe La Croûte bakery.
Address: 7070 Avenue Henri Julien, Montreal QC H2R 1T1, Canada
From $ 60
Peyto Lake
Peyto Lake is blue—really blue. Because of its proximity to nearby glaciers, large amounts of glacier flour flow into the lake each summer, and these suspended flour particles–nothing more than ground rock–saturate the lake and give it its spectacular color. And despite its breathtaking surroundings, located in the heart of the Canadian Rockies in Banff National Park, there are few viewings that rival gazing down at Peyto Lake from the platform just off the Icefield Parkway.
While the five-minute, self-guided interpretive hike to the viewpoint takes in the most spectacular view of the lake, visitors looking for a touch more adventure can hike to the Bow Summit Lookout. This 2.5-hour hike leaves from the highest point on the Icefield Parkway and climbs above the tree line to offer spectacular views of Bow Summit, Observation Peak and Mount Jimmy Simpson. Marmots, picas and ptarmigans are commonly seen along the hike. There are several other spectacular hikes in the nearby area, including Mistaya Canyon and Bow Glacier Falls.
Practical Info
Peyto Lake is located 40 kilometers north of Lake Louise on the Icefield Parkway. It shares a parking area with Bow Summit, which marks both the highest mountain pass in Jasper and Banff National Parks and the second highest paved road in Canada.
Address: Icefield Parkway, Banff, Canada
From $ 84
National Gallery of Canada
Designed by renowned architect Moshe Safdie, Ottawa’s glass-and-granite National Gallery of Canada showcases an exquisite art collection. As well as an extensive display of European and Canadian art including an assortment of indigenous artworks, the museum also houses the reconstructed 19th-century Rideau Street Convent Chapel.
The Basics
The National Gallery of Canada is one of the country’s premier cultural institutions and a hugely popular Ottawa visitor attraction. Bike tours and amphibus tours (over land and water) often take participants past the museum to see Louise Bourgeois’ huge bronze spider sculpture, Maman, which stands outside.
To explore inside the museum, purchase an admission ticket over the phone, online, or at the box office. Opt to explore independently or with the aid of an audio guide. Special talks (including a daily 10-minute docent-led talk on a single artwork), lectures, and family-oriented arts and crafts workshops also take place here.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The National Gallery of Canada is a must-visit for art lovers, and for anyone with an interest in Canadian cultural heritage.
- The National Gallery is entirely accessible to wheelchair users.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be on your feet for much of the visit.
How to Get There
The National Gallery of Canada is located near the intersection of St. Patrick Street and Sussex Drive in Ottawa. Walking, it is fewer than 15 minutes from Parliament Hill and fewer than 10 minutes from ByWard Market. You can also bike there via the Capital Pathway network. Underground parking is available.
When to Get There
The museum is open daily from May through September; October through April, it is closed on Mondays. The National Gallery is busiest during the peak summer tourist months of July and August. Year-round, weekdays are quieter than weekends. On Thursday evenings from 5pm to 8pm, access to the national collection is free.
What to Expect from the Collection
Inside the National Gallery, thousands of pieces from the museum’s 65,000-strong collection are on show, including works by renowned Canadian artists such as the Group of Seven and the Montreal-born, early–20th-century landscape artist James Wilson Morrice. Also strongly represented are influential European artists, such as Marcel Duchamp, the avant-garde French conceptual artist who shook up the art world with his 1917 work Fountain, which consisted simply of an upside-down urinal signed “R. Mutt, 1917.”
Address: 330 Sussex Dr, Ottawa ON K1N 9N4, Canada
Hours: Daily: 10am - 6pm. Thursdays: 10am - 8pm. Closed Mondays October through April
Admission: Adults: $20 Children (11 and under): free
From $ 28
Miles Canyon
At first it’s hard to imagine, but the turquoise water that peacefully flows through Miles Canyon once posed a formidable challenge for gold rush stampeders trying to find gold. A dam now controls the surge of the waves and the water gently laps against the multi-colored cliffs of volcanic rock. The Robert Lowe Suspension Bridge gives you a bird’s eye view of this historic site.
It’s become a serene getaway, but in the past hundreds of boats sank here, hammered by powerful waves, and smashed against the unforgiving cliffs. Eventually a wood railway system was built to bypass the dangerous river crossing.
Practical Info
Miles Canyon is 6 mi (10 km) upstream from Whitehorse and minutes from downtown. It can be reached by branching off the Alaska Highway at kilometer 1467/Mile 912. Cross the suspension bridge and take the path to the right to reach Canyon City, a Klondike Gold Rush ghost town.
Address: Miles Canyon, Whitehorse, Canada
From $ 104
Notre-Dame Street (Rue Notre-Dame)
Running almost the length of the island, Notre-Dame Street (Rue Notre-Dame) is one of Montreal’s most prominent thoroughfares. The most interesting stretches are in Old Montreal (Vieux Montréal), where it’s lined by historic buildings, and in Griffintown, Little Burgundy, and St. Henri, where antique stores, cafés, and restaurants abound.
The Basics
Travelers exploring Old Montreal as part of walking tours will most likely find themselves strolling down Notre-Dame Street at some point. As you amble along, look for well-known historic landmarks, including Notre-Dame Basilica and Montreal City Hall.
Follow Notre-Dame Street into Griffintown, Little Burgundy, and St. Henri. Here, the atmosphere is more neighborhoodlike, and lots of excellent restaurants, cafés, vintage stores, and antique shops can be found.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Notre-Dame Street is a must for first-time visitors, foodies, and antique hunters.
- Wear comfortable shoes as Notre-Dame Street is best explored on foot.
- Tours of Old Montreal often pass along Notre-Dame Street.
How to Get There
If you want to explore Notre-Dame Street in Old Montreal, ride the metro (Orange Line) to Place-d’Armes. Notre-Dame is less than five minutes from the station on foot. For Little Burgundy, ride the metro (Green or Orange line) to Lionel-Groulx and walk down Atwater Avenue until you reach Notre-Dame. Turning left will take you through Little Burgundy and Griffintown, while a right turn will take you to St. Henri.
When to Get There
The street is best explored in summer when you can wander comfortably and stop for snacks and refreshments at outdoor terraces. If you do visit in winter, you’ll find plenty of heated stores, cafés, restaurants, and bars to duck into for warmth.
Historic Landmarks on Notre-Dame Street
Dating to 1672, Notre-Dame is one of Montreal’s oldest streets, and in the city’s historic core it is bordered by notable centuries-old structures. The Château Ramezay, an early 18th-century residence built for the French governors and now a museum, is situated on Notre-Dame, as is the Saint-Sulpice Seminary, which—having been completed in 1687—is Montreal’s oldest building.
Address: Rue Notre-Dame, Montreal, Canada
From $ 19
Kluane National Park
Home to Mount Logan, the highest peak in Canada, snow-capped mountains and stunning glaciers dot the landscape of Kluane. It’s also home to more than 100 species of birds, including the golden and bald eagle.
Covering more than 20,000 square kilometers, nearly 9,000 square miles, the area can be explored by raft, mountain bike or hiking on foot. Horseback riding and fishing are also popular activities. Lake trout, arctic grayling, and sockeye salmon are just a few of the fish species that populate the waters.
Kluane National Park lies within the traditional territories of the Champagne and Aishihik First Nations and Kluane First Nation who have a long history of living and harvesting in the region. The park is a designated World Heritage Site and presents an opportunity to explore rich First Nation history and take in truly stunning scenery.
Practical Info
The administrative and reception center for Kluane National Park and Reserve is located in Haines Junction, 100 mi (160 km) west of Whitehorse along the Alaska Highway. Visitors are able to drive into the park at Kathleen Lake and Tachäl Dhäl (Sheep Mountain) but most access into the park is by foot, raft, or skis. Fees vary throughout the park but overnight camping starts at less than $10.
Address: Haines Junction, Whitehorse YT Y0B 1H0, Canada
From $ 217
Petit-Champlain
At the foot of Cap Diamant in the historic Lower Town (Basse-Ville) of Quebec City, the Petit-Champlain quartier is one of the oldest spots in the city and said to be home to the oldest commercial street in North America; Rue du Petit-Champlain.
In the beginning of Quebec’s history, Petit-Champlain was little more than portside village made up of just a few homes and fur trading posts. Today, after a huge urban restoration project, the quartier is bursting with sidewalk cafes, galleries, restaurants, and boutiques hidden down narrow cobblestone streets. The area is also well-known as an artists’ enclave, and nearly fifty of its stores are run by a local artists’ co-op.
On the side of 102 Rue du Petit-Champlain, look out for a huge trompe-l'œil. Designed by Murale Création, the famous mural shows different stages of Quebec’s history, from the bombardments to the landslides to the people who set down their roots here by the shores of St Lawrence.
Petit-Champlain is also home to the famous Breakneck Stairs that connect Upper and Lower Town. The oldest stairs in the city, they were first built in 1635 and given their terrifying nickname in the mid-19th century. Don’t worry, though. More recent renovations mean they’re not as scary as they sound!
Practical Info
Part of the Vieux Quebec UNESCO World Heritage site, Petit-Champlain sits at the bottom of Breakneck Stairs and the funicular connecting the Upper and Lower Town.
Address: Petit-Champlain, Quebec, Canada
Hours: Daily
From $ 20
Point Pleasant Park
On the southern tip of the Halifax peninsula you’ll find Point Pleasant Park, a large municipal park where visitors of all sorts can find something – well -- pleasant.
History lovers should check out the remarkably preserved 18th century Martello tower known as the Prince of Wales Tower, a 26-foot high heavily armed defense structure used from the early 1800s to protect the city. Other defense batteries can also be found around the area, including the Cambridge Battery.
Several monuments pay tribute to Halifax’s heritage, the largest being the Halifax Monument (or Sailor’s Memorial). This memorial was originally erected in 1969 to pay tribute to the members of the Royal Canadian Navy, the Canadian Merchant Navy, and the Canadian Army who were lost at sea. Since then, the monument has been replaced twice.
In the summer, literary folks can enjoy plays performed by the Shakespeare by the Sea theatre company. There are also many trails for running or walking. You can pack a picnic, sit at a table near the sea, and enjoy the views. You can walk your dog, but park rules demand that he or she be leashed at all times.
History lovers should check out the remarkably preserved 18th century Martello tower known as the Prince of Wales Tower, a 26-foot high heavily armed defense structure used from the early 1800s to protect the city. Other defense batteries can also be found around the area, including the Cambridge Battery.
Several monuments pay tribute to Halifax’s heritage, the largest being the Halifax Monument (or Sailor’s Memorial). This memorial was originally erected in 1969 to pay tribute to the members of the Royal Canadian Navy, the Canadian Merchant Navy, and the Canadian Army who were lost at sea. Since then, the monument has been replaced twice.
In the summer, literary folks can enjoy plays performed by the Shakespeare by the Sea theatre company. There are also many trails for running or walking. You can pack a picnic, sit at a table near the sea, and enjoy the views. You can walk your dog, but park rules demand that he or she be leashed at all times.
Practical Info
The park is located on Point Pleasant Drive and is open from 6 AM to
midnight daily. Parking is available, but parking lot hours change per
season. Consult the park website for more details.
Address: Point Pleasant Road & Tower Road, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
Hours: Open daily 6am - midnight
From $ 70
Jasper SkyTram
The Jasper SkyTram (formerly Jasper Tramway) is the longest—and highest—aerial tramway in Canada. Built in 1964, the Tram begins at 4,279 ft (1,304 m) above sea level and transports guests to 7,472 ft (2,277 m) above sea level in an enclosed tram compartment in seven minutes. The SkyTram rises above Whistlers Mountain and provides expansive views of lakes, six mountain ranges, the town of Jasper and Alberta’s longest river, the Athabasca.
A guide answers questions and points out areas of interest, animal life and history of the area during the Jasper SkyTram tour. After reaching the top, guests can stroll boardwalks to view wildlife. Alpine inhabitants include the whistling hoary marmot, white-tailed ptarmigan, ground squirrels, pikas and the occasional bighorn sheep. There are also hiking trails to the summit of Whistlers Mountain for those wanting more of a challenge.
Practical Info
The Jasper SkyTram is a ten-minute drive from Jasper, Alberta and is open during the spring, summer and fall months, from mid-April through mid-October. Rates start at $32 for adults and $16 for children 6-16. Children five years and younger can ride for free.
Address: Jasper SkyTram, Jasper, Alberta, Canada, Canada
Hours: 9am - 6:30pm, depending on season
Admission: Adults: $35; Youth (6-15): $17.50
From $ 38
Mile End
Situated at the northernmost point of Montreal’s Plateau, Mile End is known for its array of independent shops, cafés, and underground music venues. The vibrant neighborhood, a cultural hub since the 1980s, is teeming with highly-rated restaurants and historical landmarks, from classic bagelries to scenes from the novels of Mordecai Richler.
The Basics
Mile End walking tours are often centered around food, as the neighborhood boasts a diverse range of cuisines and specialties. As a longtime hub for Montreal’s Jewish population, walking tours that highlight Jewish history, culture, and heritage are also popular, and often include stops at decades-old restaurants and Mordecai Richler’s old haunts. Bike tours offer a more active experience and enable you to see more than might be possible on foot.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Mile End is a must-do for foodies, thrifters, and history buffs.
- Don’t forget comfortable shoes, as the best way to explore the neighborhood is on foot.
- Visit popular restaurants after the lunch rush to avoid notoriously long lines.
- Street signs, including parking and traffic signs, are written in French.
How to Get There
Mile End is situated northeast of Mont Royal Park and is easily accessible via Montreal’s comprehensive public transit system. The nearest stops are Saint Laurent and Saint Viateur on bus 55, Avenue du Parc and Fairmount on bus 80, and Laurier metro station on the orange 2 line. Alternatively, a BIXI bike-share dock is located on the southeast corner of Avenue du Parc and Avenue du Mont-Royal Ouest. Metered street parking is available, but often limited.
When to Get There
Mile End is busiest on weekends—especially during brunch. Beat the crowds by heading to restaurants and cafés before 11am. For a quieter experience, stroll through the neighborhood on a weekday morning. In addition to POP Montreal’s International Film Festival each September, Mile End also hosts the annual summer Marché des Possibles, a public market that features live music, art, films, and pop-up restaurants.
Battle of the Bagel
Mile End is home to Montreal’s two legendary bagel shops: St. Viateur and Fairmount, located only a few blocks apart. Montrealers are born and bred to have an unwavering loyalty to one or the other, creating a city-wide bagel debate that has been written about and reported on for decades. Try a fresh bagel at each shop and decide for yourself—both are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Address: Montreal, Quebec, Canada
From $ 18
Peak 2 Peak Gondola
Gliding along the world’s longest unsupported span, Whistler’s Peak 2 Peak Gondola connects two side-by-side mountains—Whistler and Blackcomb—and is the longest and highest continuous lift of its kind. The gondola was built for skiers, snowboarders, hikers, and sightseers alike to travel between the two internationally renowned snow- and sun-sport wonderlands. With incomparable views of the surrounding peaks, you’ll get some of the freshest mountain air and most spectacular vistas in all of British Columbia.
The Basics
The Peak 2 Peak Gondola runs 2.7 miles (4.4 kilometers) at a lofty 1,430 feet (436 meters) between the Roundhouse Lodge on Whistler Mountain and the Rendezvous Restaurant on Blackcomb Mountain. As you fly between the mountain resorts, gaze down through the cabin’s glass floor at the valley below and enjoy 360-degree aerial views all around. From the gondola terminals, you have access to over 200 marked runs, and more than 30 miles (48 kilometers) of alpine walking, hiking, and biking trails.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The gondola ride takes about 11 minutes, with services departing every minute.
- The Peak 2 Peak terminals are accessed from Whistler Village via the Whistler Village Gondola and from the base of Blackcomb (the Upper Village) via the Wizard Express and the Solar Coaster Express.
- Depending on the season, once you reach the mountaintop you can either ski, snowboard, hike, or bike the high alpine terrain.
How to Get There
Whistler is accessible on a day tour from Vancouver via either a short scenic flight or 2-hour drive on the scenic Sea to Sky Highway. The drive from Vancouver is about 70 miles (113 kilometers).
When to Get There
Whistler Blackcomb and the Peak 2 Peak Gondola are open year-round, and activities vary based on the season. There’s snow on the ground about 200 days a year, with November and December being the least crowded ski months. Kids programs and camps are available in the summer, and biking and skiing instruction can be booked upon arrival.
Skiing Whistler Blackcomb
During the winter, the Peak 2 Peak Gondola is free to use with a lift ticket from the Whistler Blackcomb resort. Various lifts connect skiers and snowboarders who want to experience the 200 marked runs—from beginner to advanced—that crisscross over 8,100 acres (3,278 hectares) of terrain on both mountains. The gondola also offers access to a vast area of unmarked and unpatrolled backcountry skiing and riding in Garibaldi Provincial Park.
Address: Roundhouse Lodge, Blackcomb Way, Whistler BC V0N 1B4, Canada
Hours: Open daily
Admission: Adults: CA$55
From $ 83
Maligne Canyon
Carved out of the limestone bedrock by a rushing river, this narrow and steep canyon—which reaches depths of up to 160 feet (50 meters)—is one of the most striking geological features of Jasper National Park. In summer, hikers flock here to follow trails that span the gorge, while in winter, the canyon freezes into an icy wonderland.
The Basics
During summer, Maligne Canyon is a popular hiking spot. Trails lead to footbridges that span the deepest sections of the canyon and offer views of waterfalls, fossils, and rock formations. Many guided summertime tours from Jasper make stops at the canyon, allowing visitors to explore independently or with a guide. Half-day and full-day summer tours often combine Maligne Canyon with other Canadian Rockies highlights, such as Medicine Lake, Maligne Lake, Athabasca Falls, and Miette Hot Springs.
In winter, Maligne Canyon ice-climbing tours and ice walks are scheduled, allowing visitors to tread—usually with waterproof winter boots and ice cleats—along the icy surface of the canyon floor, seeing frozen waterfalls, ice caves, and icicles.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Maligne Canyon is a must for outdoor adventurers and nature lovers.
- Though the hiking trails at Maligne Canyon are not wheelchair accessible, the Maligne Canyon Restaurant and Gift Shop (open May–October) is. An asphalt path near the restaurant leads to an accessible viewpoint.
- The smooth bedrock of the canyon can be slippery, so wear appropriate footwear.
How to Get There
Maligne Canyon is situated in Jasper National Park, in Alberta, Western Canada. From the town of Jasper, follow Yellowhead Highway (Highway 16) north and take the turnoff for Maligne Lake Road. The drive should take 15–20 minutes.
When to Get There
Maligne Canyon is busiest in summer. For a quieter experience, go in the off-season (mid-fall through late spring). In summer, you can avoid throngs of sightseers by hiking as far as the fifth or sixth canyon bridge, where crowds typically dissipate. Alternatively, set off early in the morning before most people arrive.
Hiking Trails at Maligne Canyon
Maligne Canyon is a hiking hot spot, with routes to suit all schedules and fitness levels. From the upper canyon parking lot, follow a short (20- to 40-minute) route that crosses over the first and second bridges. Longer hikes leading through the lower canyon, and to the other bridges, are also possible. Interpretive signs around the canyon explain the geology of the area. If you want to explore the canyon floor, be sure to go with a guide who can ensure conditions are safe.
Address: Jasper National Park, Jasper, Alberta, Canada, Canada
Admission: Varies
From $ 50
Plains of Abraham
Part of Battlefields Park, this grassy expanse was the setting for a major military clash in 1759, which led to the British takeover of New France—a battle that is well-documented in the Plains of Abraham Museum. The park is an outdoor playground for Quebec City residents who come here to stroll, cycle, jog, sled, and cross-country ski.
The Basics
The Plains of Abraham is one of the most important historical sites in Quebec City and also doubles as a popular recreational space. Delve into the region’s history at the Plains of Abraham Museum, which hosts an exhibition detailing the battles fought on this site. The park is dotted with military remnants, including cannons and a British-built Martello tower.
The plains are a common stop on hop-on hop-off bus tours of Quebec City. They can also be seen from above during helicopter tours, which fly over Old Quebec (Vieux Quebec), the St. Lawrence River, and, depending on the selected route, other sights in the region, such as Montmorency Falls.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Plains of Abraham are a must-visit for history buffs.
- Guided tours of the site begin at the Plains of Abraham Museum, which has a gift shop and exhibitions detailing the history of the site.
- The museum is wheelchair accessible and select paved trails around the park are also suitable for wheelchair users.
How to Get There
The Plains of Abraham is situated within Battlefields Park in Quebec City. The most scenic approach is on foot from the Chateau Frontenac hotel: Follow Dufferin Terrace (Terrasse Dufferin) and the Promenade des Gouverneurs riverside boardwalk east to reach the plains.
When to Get There
The best time to come is between July and September, when Battlefields Park hosts many special activities, including guided bus tours, special guided tours by lantern, and an exhibition in the Martello tower. In early October, the park is full of colorful fall foliage, while in winter, it is a magnet for snowshoers and cross-country skiers.
Plains of Abraham Nearby Sights
Bundle a park visit with one or two other nearby attractions. Bordering the park is the Citadel of Quebec, a military fortress that hosts tours and museums. To the north of the park is the National Museum of Fine Arts (Musée National des Beaux-Arts), which contains a permanent collection of more than 38,000 works, including pieces from Quebec art legends such as Jean-Paul Riopelle and Inuit artwork from Nunavik, Nunavut, and the Northwest Territories.
Address: 835 Wilfrid-Laurier Avenue, Quebec City, Canada
From $ 32
Okanagan Valley
British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley is a popular Canadian holiday destination, famous for its warm dry summers, lakeside beaches, vineyards and mountains.
Nicknamed the “Napa Valley of the North,” millions of juicy grapes ripen among the rolling hills around Okanagan Lake, and summertime temperatures are generally hotter than they are in Napa itself. Okanagan’s wine scene is dominated by sweet whites, and the local ice dessert wine is a must-try; it is made using grapes that have frozen on the vine during Canada’s chilly winter nights.
Orchards bursting with juicy peaches, apricots and cherries are also in abundance in Okanagan Valley, as well as plenty of outdoor activities. Popular among watersport aficionados, golfers, mountain bikers and hikers, the valley hosts more than 300,000 people, with the liveliest and largest city being Kelowna. Other popular cities to stay in around the lake are Vernon and Penticton. The backcountry teems with old mining settlements toward the valley’s U.S. border, while the north is dominated by those famous orchards and vineyards. In winter, Okanagan Valley is a popular skiing destination.
Practical Info
Kelowna is one of the fastest-growing cities in Canada and has its own airport with regular flights coming in from Vancouver International Airport. Otherwise, Okanagan Valley is a scenic five-hour drive east of Vancouver.
Address: Okanagan Valley, Kelowna, Banff, Canada
Hours: Daily
From $ 95
Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Church
Built in 1687, in the historic Lower Town of Quebec City, Notre-Dame-des-Victoires is one of the oldest churches in North America. Lying atop the ruins of the city’s first outpost, which was built by the Father of New France, Samuel de Champlain, in 1608, Notre-Dame-des-Victoires dominates Place Royale square. Over the centuries, this Roman Catholic church has seen its fair share of battles between the French and British. And after the Battle of Quebec in 1690, the church was given its Notre Dame moniker in recognition of the Virgin Mary protecting the city from danger. However, Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Church was almost completely destroyed by a later British bombardment during the 1759 Battle of the Plains of Abraham.
Restored in 1816, the church was named a National Historic Site of Canada in 1988 because of its beauty and history. A working church with regular Sunday services, a particularly special time to visit is on January 3. On this feast day of patron St. Genevieve, who is said to protect against famine, the church hands out little buns as blessings.
Practical Info
In Place Royale in Quebec City’s Lower Town, Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Church is open daily to the public from 9:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Address: 32 Rue Sous le Fort, Quebec, Canada
Hours: Daily 9:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.
From $ 15