Choose from 290 Fun Things to Do in Canada
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Covehead Lighthouse
Perched on a grassy hilltop above sweeping red sands, Covehead Harbor Lighthouse is one of the most photographed spots on Prince Edward Island (PEI). While this lighthouse is one of the island’s shortest at just 27 feet tall (8.2 meters tall), its charming white and red-trimmed exterior and panoramic coastal views make it one of the most popular.
The Basics
Although it’s not possible to enter the lighthouse, Covehead’s photo-worthy setting still offers sweeping views along the coast of Prince Edward Island National Park. Stop by on a scenic coastal drive or visit on a guided tour from Charlottetown, which allows you to experience PEI’s coastal scenery, see and learn about historical lighthouses, and sample wine at a local vineyard.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Covehead Harbor Lighthouse is a must-see for photographers and first-time visitors to PEI.
- Bring your camera (or smartphone) to capture shots of the structure and its surrounds.
- Dress in layers, as the coastal area can be cool and windy.
- Prince Edward Island National Park entrance fees apply.
How to Get There
Covehead Harbor Lighthouse is located in Prince Edward Island National Park, on the north coast of PEI. Public transportation is limited in the area, so it’s a good idea to arrive by car or visit on a guided tour.
When to Get There
Summer through early fall is the best time to visit Covehead Harbor Lighthouse, as winters in this area can be very cold and snowy. Late afternoon (the “golden hour”) and sunset are the best times to photograph the lighthouse.
The Lighthouses of Prince Edward Island
It might be just 139 miles (224 kilometers) long, but the dramatically sculpted coastline of Prince Edward Island is dotted with dozens of lighthouses that cast a dazzling light show over the seafront after dusk. West Point Lighthouse is one of the island’s tallest at 68 feet tall (20.6 meters tall) and houses a museum, inn, restaurant, and craft shop. On the other side of the island, the East Point Lighthouse faces the Gulf of St. Lawrence and the Northumberland Strait. Other notable structures include the Victoria Range Light, the Wood Islands Lighthouse, the Cape Bear Lighthouse, and the Point Prim Lighthouse.
Address: Prince Edward Island National Park, Prince Edward Island, Canada
Admission: Varies
From $ 78
CN Tower
For many visitors to Toronto, this needle-like telecommunications tower—often seen from the airplane window—is their first glimpse of the city. When it was erected in 1976, the CN Tower was the world’s tallest freestanding structure. Though it no longer holds that title, it is still the tallest tower in Canada, and the spectacular views from its observation decks are second to none.
The Basics
At 1,815 feet (553 meters), the CN Tower is hard to miss, and almost every sightseeing tour of the Toronto includes at least a look at this iconic structure. To get a real sense of its soaring height, it’s best to go inside. Regular entry, which you can combine with a guided walking tour or harbor cruise, gives you access to the vertigo-triggering Glass Floor at 1,122 feet (342 meters) and the 1,136-foot (436-meter) LookOut Level deck via high-speed, glass-walled elevators. You can go to the even higher SkyPod platform at 1,465 feet (447 meters), though you need a separate ticket. For the ultimate thrill, try the EdgeWalk, a hands-free walk around the ledge of the tower’s main pod. Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada is located on the ground floor. For a novel perspective of the tower, take a helicopter tour over Toronto’s skyline.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Wear a jacket or outer layer as it can be cold on the Outdoor SkyTerrace, located on the same level as the world-famous Glass Floor.
- Access to the observation level is free to those who dine in the tower’s revolving restaurant.
- The Glass Floor, LookOut Level, and the first level of the SkyPod are all accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
CN Tower is located beside the Rogers Centre in downtown Toronto. The visitors’ entrance is on Bremner Boulevard. Take the subway (line 1 Yonge-University) to Union Station and walk west along Front Street. It’s a five- to 10-minute walk from the station.
When to Get There
Summer weekends are peak visiting days. Most people come between 11am and 5pm—go in early morning or late evening to avoid the crowds. After sunset, you can witness the tower’s eight-minute light show, which takes place on the hour.
What the CN Tower Actually Does
More than just a show-stopping architectural icon and tourist attraction, the CN Tower serves a practical purpose as a telecommunications tower. Prior to its construction, the increasingly tall Toronto skyline was making it difficult to transmit radio and television signals. Though the tower may appear spindly, it is in fact very sturdy. It is covered with thick reinforced concrete, weighs 130,000 tons (117,910 metric tonnes), and is designed to withstand harsh weather conditions.
Address: 301 Front Street West, Downtown South, Toronto M5V 2T6, Canada
Hours: Open daily 9am - 11pm
Admission: Adults: CA$36.00
From $ 16
Brockton Point
Brockton Point is the easternmost peninsula of Vancouver’s Stanley Park and is best known for the good views it offers of the downtown area with its skyscrapers, and the Burrard Inlet ranging from North Vancouver and the Lions Gate Bridge to Coal Harbour. Since there are also several important shipping lanes passing through the inlet, Brockton Point is a favorite among ship spotters for watching big freight vessels heading to and from the port with goods piled high.
The peninsula encompasses several of the park’s well-known landmarks, such as the 9 O’Clock Gun, an old naval cannon that fires a shot every evening at nine; a colorful totem pole display, British Columbia’s most-visited tourist attraction; and a century-old lighthouse. The Brockton Point Lighthouse features a prominent red and white tower, which was built in 1914 after numerous shipwrecks on the treacherous shores of Stanley Park and, in more recent years, has become a favorite among photographers. It is supported by delicate arches, underneath which visitors can stroll through on the shoreline pathway.
The peninsula encompasses several of the park’s well-known landmarks, such as the 9 O’Clock Gun, an old naval cannon that fires a shot every evening at nine; a colorful totem pole display, British Columbia’s most-visited tourist attraction; and a century-old lighthouse. The Brockton Point Lighthouse features a prominent red and white tower, which was built in 1914 after numerous shipwrecks on the treacherous shores of Stanley Park and, in more recent years, has become a favorite among photographers. It is supported by delicate arches, underneath which visitors can stroll through on the shoreline pathway.
Practical Info
Brockton Point within Stanley Park is located in the West End neighborhood and can be reached with bus number 19, which makes stops at Stanley Park Drive and Stanley Park Loop. Apart from hop-on hop-off trolleys and horse-drawn carriages in summer, there is no transit service available within the park, and visitors usually walk or bike the short distances.
Address: Canada
From $ 30
Algonquin Provincial Park
Established in 1893, Algonquin is the oldest provincial park in Canada. Spreading across 2,955 square miles (7,650 square kilometers), this vast wilderness encompasses maple-carpeted hills, thick pine forest, and thousands upon thousands of lakes. The abundant wildlife here includes black bears, moose, and packs of Algonquin wolves.
The Basics
Though Algonquin presents many opportunities for day trips, including hikes along trailheads just off Highway 60, you’ll need several days to explore more remote parts of the park’s interior. The park offers countless opportunities for swimming, wildlife-viewing, fishing, stargazing, and relaxing in nature.
Much of the interior is accessible only via the vast Algonquin Park canoe routes network, which can be explored as part of multi-day tours. Visitors can get an introduction to wilderness camping on guided multi-day canoe trips that include canoe rentals, meals, permits, and equipment. For a more comfortable park tour option, choose a multi-day adventure tour that includes accommodation in a lodge or forest cabin.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Algonquin Provincial Park is a must for wildlife lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
- For information and tips, stop by the Algonquin Visitor Centre, situated along Highway 60.
- Algonquin Provincial Park has wheelchair-accessible campgrounds, trails (Spruce Bog Boardwalk Trail and Fire Tower Trail), and visitor facilities, including the Algonquin Visitor Centre and Algonquin Logging Museum.
How to Get There
Algonquin Provincial Park is situated between Georgian Bay and the Ottawa River in central Ontario, about 185 miles (300 kilometers) north of Toronto. The park is accessible via Highway 60, which cuts through part of the southern section.
When to Get There
Algonquin offers different activities in different seasons. Spring is good for birding, lake trout fishing, and moose watching; mid-September to mid-October is best for fall colors; and winter offers snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and dog-sledding opportunities. Watch out for black flies and mosquitoes, which are out in full force between late May and late June.
Algonquin Park Wildlife
Algonquin Provincial Park is known for its abundance of wildlife. While black bears, white-tailed deer, and moose are all commonly spotted, the most famous inhabitants of the park are the Algonquin wolves. About 35 wolf packs are believed to roam the park, and public wolf howls are held at the park every August. During these events, naturalist staff intimate the calls of wolves, encouraging them to respond. Those camping in Algonquin are bound to hear the distinctive call of the loon, which is most vocal during May and June.
Address: Ontario 60, Ontario, Canada
From $ 416
Bow Falls
The Bow Falls are located on the Bow River in Alberta's Banff National Park, within walking distance of the Banff Springs Hotel. The short, wide, cascading falls make for a popular sightseeing stop, likely because of how accessible the natural destination is—the falls can be easily enjoyed by people of all abilities and all ages. Trails for pedestrians and cyclists wind along the south shore of the Bow River and its rapids, with the walking trail climbing up to the clifftop where the falls begin (bicycles aren’t allowed at the top).
The viewing areas at Bow Falls offer vistas of the river and the falls themselves, while a cement promenade located at the base of the cascade has a few benches to sit on, though most people sit on the ledge of the promenade and enjoy the views from there. At the far end of the promenade is a small, sandy beach where rafting and kayak tours often begin.
Practical Info
To get to the trails that lead to the falls by car from Banff, drive to Main Street (Banff Avenue) and then cross over the Bow River Bridge. Turn left at the lights and look for parking. The trail sign for the Bow Falls Trail will be on the left. To drive all the way to the falls, turn left onto Glen Avenue after the bridge then continue on Bow Falls Drive and turn left into the parking lot. The clifftop section at the top of the falls is closed during the winter months.
Address: Bow River Ave., Banff, Alberta T0L, Canada
From $ 57
Boldt Castle
Built in the early 20th century in the middle of Heart Island, Boldt Castle is one of the main tourist attractions of the Thousand Islands in the Saint Lawrence River.
George Boldt began building the 120-room castle in 1900 for his wife, and when she died four years later all work on the building stopped. It was left empty and open to the elements for more than 70 years. The castle was purchased in 1977 and has been restored as a local attraction. The first floor of the castle is meant to show how the Boldt family would have decorated it, had they ever moved in.
The castle itself sits in the middle of Heart Island, but there are other buildings that make up the estate – including a castle-like “power house” with a small stone bridge and a tower building at the water's edge that was originally designed to be an entertainment area for guests.
Practical Info
Visitors get to Heart Island by boat (if you own a boat, you can dock there for free) from either the U.S. or Canada, and some of the grounds and buildings are open to the public. Entry to these areas is $8.50 for adults and $6 for children ages 6-12. The castle is open for self-guided tours from mid-May through mid-October; the open hours vary by month, but it's typically open between 10-11am and closes between 5-7:30pm.
Address: Alexandria Bay, New York, USA
Hours: Vary by season
Admission: Adults: $8.50; Children: $6 (ages 6-12)
From $ 204
Blomidon Estate Winery
What better way to enjoy the fine Nova Scotia wines than on a scenic 10-hectare vineyard in the Annapolis region? Blessed with a micro-climate that permits grape growing, the Blomidon Estate Winery is located on the bucolic shore of the Minas Basin has won numerous national and international awards over the years. Many of the blocks were planted in 1986 –including established Baco Noir, L’Acadie Blanc, Seyval Blanc and Chardonnay, with newer plantings of Riesling, New York Muscat- giving Blomidon some of the oldest vines in the province. Their 100% Nova Scotia production includes crisp whites, strong reds, sweet rosés, sparkling wines (crémants and Prosecco-style sparkling) and delicate ice wines produced in the utmost Canadian tradition. The vineyard provides the perfect backdrop for a relaxed picnic or an expert tasting, and is one of the most picturesque pieces of land in the province.
Practical Info
The Blomidon Estate Winery is located an hour and a half (107 kilometers/66 miles) north of Halifax. It can be reached by car via route 101, 358 and 221. The winery is open between Mondays and Saturdays from 10am to 5pm and on Sundays from 12AM to 5PM. Vineyard tours are available daily during the summer months and cost $5 per person.
Address: 10318 NS-221, Canning B0P 1H0, Canada
Hours: Mon-Sat 10am-5pm; Sun 12-5pm
Admission: $5 per person
From $ 123
Church & State Wines
To its owners, the name Church and State Wines represents a balance between the varied elements required to produce the highest quality wines. The name suggests a balance between change – each year’s distinct vintage – and tradition – aging wines in French oak barrels.
Church and State Wines puts plenty of focus on its grapes. Its owner’s belief is the best grapes are only produced on the best land, but also requires unwavering attention to detail throughout the planting, growing, and harvesting processes. The best land is also subject to the right grape varietal, so Church and State Wines has two British Columbia locations: Oliver-Osoyoos and Victoria. The former includes 70 acres of Vineyards BC’s dominant wine region, while the latter houses 11 acres of vineyards on the Saanich Peninsula, just minutes from downtown Victoria.
Their mindfulness is paying dividends, too, as they’ve now been awarded Canada’s best red wine on three occasions.
Practical Info
Church and State Wines’ Victoria winery is located at 1445 Benvenuto Ave. It’s tasting bar is open Friday-Sunday, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Address: 1445 Benvenuto Ave., Central Saanich, British Columbia, Canada
Hours: Tasting bar is open Friday-Sunday, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
From $ 185
Albert Gilles Copper Art Museum
Run by the wife and family of the late, great coppersmith, Albert Gilles, the Albert Gilles Copper Art Museum showcases artwork by both Gilles and his family. Part of the economusee network of Canada, this small museum allows visitors to make their own copper memento, and groups with reservations will get to see live copper work demos. In the museum store, you’ll also find artworks and jewelry for sale.
Albert Gilles was born in Paris in 1895, where an aunt taught him the craft of copper embossing. Crossing the Atlantic in the 1930s to make a new life in Quebec, Gilles quickly established a name for himself as a master coppersmith and created work for everyone from Walt Disney to Pope XII. Perhaps his most famous work is the copper doors he created for Ste-Anne-de-Beaupré basilica, 22 miles outside Quebec City. This famous cathedral receives up to half a million pilgrims a year, and in Quebec City itself you can spot Albert Gilles’ designs on the copper roof of the iconic Château Frontenac hotel.
Practical Info
A 20-minute drive from Quebec City in the Château-Richer on 7450 Boulevard Sainte-Anne, entrance to the Albert Gilles Copper Art Museum is free. The museum is open daily from 8:30am-5pm between May and October, and from 9am-4pm from November to April.
Address: 7450 Boulevard Sainte-Anne Château-Richer, Quebec City, Canada
Hours: 8:30am-5pm daily between May and October; 9am-4pm daily from November to April
From $ 44
Citadel of Quebec (Citadelle de Quebec)
The huge star-shaped Citadel of Quebec (La Citadelle de Quebec) is the largest military fortress in North America still occupied by troops. Begun by the French in the 1750s, the fortress was completed by the British in the mid-19th century, but never actually saw any action. Today, Canada’s French-speaking Royal 22nd Regiment (Royal 22e Régiment) is based here.
The Basics
Sightseeing and hop-on hop-off bus tours of Quebec City often visit the Citadel of Quebec, with guides providing commentary about its history and current role as a base for Canadian forces. Purchase a ticket to explore the National Historic Site and access the Royal 22nd Regiment Museum (Musée Royal 22e Régiment), where weapons, uniforms, and other military artifacts are displayed. French- and English-language guided tours of the complex take place at least every hour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Citadel of Quebec is a must for anyone with an interest in military history.
- A good portion of the tour takes place outdoors, so wear weather-appropriate clothing.
- The citadel is wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
The fort is set atop Cape Diamond (Cap Diamant), which overlooks the St. Lawrence River. Reach the citadel by car via Côte de la Citadelle (limited parking is available at the site). It’s about a 30-minute walk from Gare du Palais train station and a 20-minute walk from Chateau Frontenac. RTC buses (3 and 11) stop next to Côte de la Citadelle.
When to Get There
Summer is the best time to visit: Tours are more frequent, the weather is warmer, and troops can be seen performing special ceremonies. Changing of the Guard ceremonies take place daily at 10am from June 24 through Labour Day in early September, while Beating of the Retreat ceremonies run at 5pm on Wednesdays in July and August. Nighttime tours by lantern take place from June to October.
Regimental Ceremonies at the Citadel
The Changing of the Guard marks the handover between the previous sentries on duty and the batch of troops taking over for them. Officers inspect the troops, with the military band providing music and the well-behaved mascot, Batisse the goat, also taking part. Meanwhile, the Beating of the Retreat marks the end of the day and sees guards assemble on the parade square to fire rifles. Troops wear bearskin hats and red regimental coats during both ceremonies.
Address: 201 Côte de la Citadelle, Old Upper Town, Quebec City, Canada
From $ 15
British Columbia Legislature Buildings
Built overlooking Victoria’s Inner Harbor, the British Columbia Legislature Buildings form an impressive architectural and historical landmark within a few steps of downtown.
When the provincial legislature outgrew its former home, the provincial government hosted an architectural competition to build the new legislative buildings. Francis Rattenbury, a then 25-year-old recent arrival from England, won with his three-building neo-baroque style plans, but construction didn’t go without its woes; the project soared beyond its original budget, but the new British Columbia Parliament Buildings did open their doors in 1898.
The white marble, massive central dome, and lengthy façade combined to make an innovative and impressive monument for what, at the time, was a relatively young Canadian province. The building remains equally impressive, today, and a few new landmarks exist on its property. A statue of Queen Victoria stands on the front yard, while a figure of George Vancouver sits atop the central dome. There is also a statue of a soldier to commemorate the province’s fallen heroes from WWI, WWII, and the Korean War.
Practical Info
The British Columbia Legislature Buildings are located at 501 Belleville St in Victoria, B.C. Throughout the summer; they are open daily from 9am to 5pm. Throughout the winter, the buildings are closed on weekends.
Address: 501 Belleville St., Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
Hours: Summer daily 9am-5pm; winter M-F
From $ 48
Brandywine Falls
Brandywine Falls is a spectacular 216-foot waterfall located just a short hop off the Sea-to-Sky Highway between Squamish and Whistler. The falls are also surrounded by Brandywine Falls Provincial Park, which has tripled in size in the past decade.
Measuring 216 feet, the waterfall is nearly 30 percent taller than Niagara Falls, albeit with a fraction of the water volume. A half-mile (1-km) walking trail leads from the parking lot to a viewpoint, and it’s worth venturing a few minutes further down the trail, too, as a second viewpoint offers panoramic views across Daisy Lake.
Both the Lava Lake and Sea-to-Sky trails offer short hiking and mountain biking opportunities within the park. The steeper Swim Lake Trail, which starts just before the railway crossing, doesn’t actually lead to a good swimming hole, as Swim Lake doesn't have a dock or beach. However, the trail is worth exploring because it provides the best opportunity to spot the rare – and endangered – red-legged frog.
Practical Info
Brandywine Falls Provincial Park is open year round, although deep snow makes access difficult in winter. It is located 10.5 miles (17 km) south of Whistler and 25 miles (40 km) north of Squamish on the Sea-to-Sky Highway (Highway 99).
Address: Brandywine Falls Provincial Park, BC, Canada
From $ 104
Bow Lake
Bow Lake in the Canadian Rockies is one of the smaller lakes in Banff National Park. It is the source of the Bow River and lies along part of the Great Continental Divide, which creates the border between Alberta and British Columbia. As with all of the lakes lining the Icefields Parkway in Banff National Park and Jasper National Park, Bow Lake boasts spectacularly colored water and top-notch mountain scenery. One of the most interesting features of these Rocky Mountain Lakes is their differences in color. Some are green, some are bright blue, and sometimes (after a major rain) some of them are brownish. The lake’s colors might even change with the weather. As you continue north along the Icefields Parkway, you will have several different views of the bright-blue waters of Bow Lake, as it lies quite close to the highway. The lake is a great place for a picnic and a stroll, and is especially beautiful at sunrise when the sun shines off of the water and Crowfoot Mountain.
Practical Info
Bow Lake is part of the Icefields Parkway and is at an elevation of 6,300 feet (1,920 meters above sea level). The lake offers impressive vistas of Wapta Icefield, Bow Glacier, Mt Thompson, and Crowfoot Glacier/Crowfoot Mountain. There is a basic picnicking area with plenty of parking, tables, fire boxes, and public restrooms.
Address: Alberta Highway 93, Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada
From $ 130
Bird Kingdom Niagara Falls
Housed in a former Niagara Falls corset factory, Bird Kingdom houses hundreds of brightly plumed feathered fliers. Inside the multilevel rainforest—said to be the world’s largest free-flying indoor aviary—exotic birds perch on jungle foliage and soar overhead. Other residents include bats, snakes, tortoises, iguanas, and bearded dragons.
The Basics
This indoor aviary, located within a vast 50,000-square-foot (4,645-square-meter) complex, makes for a great family day out. Tickets grant you access to all exhibits within the facility, including the main aviary, the small bird aviary, a rare 19th-century teak Javanese house, and the Night Jungle, where artificial lighting lets you witness nocturnal rainforest creatures at their most active. You can interact with reptiles and birds at the Animal Encounters exhibit, as well as give nectar (included with admission) to colorful parrots during the feedings that take place several times daily at Lorikeet Landing.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Bird Kingdom is ideal for bird enthusiasts and families.
- Allow around one to two hours to properly explore Bird Kingdom.
- Bird-watching enthusiasts may want to bring binoculars to get a closer look.
- Most of Bird Kingdom, except for the Javanese House, is accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
The best way to get to Bird Kingdom is to drive. From Toronto, take Queen Elizabeth Way West to the Highway 420 exit. Paid parking is available at the corner of Hiram and River Roads. Bird Kingdom is less than a 5-minute walk from Rainbow Bridge, an official border crossing point between the US and Canada. If you’re coming from the US, allow extra time to cross the border.
When to Get There
Bird Kingdom is busiest from June through August, during Niagara Falls’ peak visitor season. Come just after opening to experience the aviary at its quietest.
Spectacular Species at the Bird Kingdom
Among the many birds in the Bird Kingdom aviaries are several rare and unusual species. Look for the double yellow-headed Amazon, an eye-catching parrot species with a bright green body and a yellow head; the hyacinth macaw, distinguished by its bright cobalt blue feathers; the African gray parrot, a famously talkative breed; and the surprisingly beautiful blue-crowned pigeon.
Address: 5651 River Road, Downtown, Niagara Falls L2E 7M7, Canada
Hours: Open daily, hours change seasonally.
Admission: Adults: CA$17.95
From $ 16
Bowen Island
Calm and free from crowds, this forested island off Vancouver serves as a retreat from the stresses of the city. With hiking trails, kayak-friendly coastline, and sheltered bays, the island offers plenty of opportunities for fun in the fresh air, while a smattering of small villages showcase its vibrant art, craft, and food scenes.
The Basics
Just a 20-minute boat ride from Vancouver, Bowen Island is an ideal day trip. Jet Ski tours of Howe Sound depart from Granville Island and skirt around the scenic coast of Bowen Island, as well as other neighboring islands such as Anvil Island. Some Jet Ski tours make a dinner stop at Bowen Island, allowing participants to disembark and dine at one of Bowen Island’s local restaurants.
While the island is served by a ferry, visitors looking for a little more freedom and flexibility may want to rent a private speedboat instead. Once on the island, while away the hours lounging on sandy beaches, hiking, kayaking, paddleboarding, or swimming.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Bowen Island is an easy day-trip option for visitors based in Vancouver.
- Most boats dock at Snug Cove on the east coast, where you’ll find restaurants, cafés, art galleries, and a weekend market in summer.
- Private speedboat rentals usually include a boat license, safety briefing, and instructions.
How to Get There
Regular ferry service to Bowen Island departs from Horseshoe Bay terminal. To get to the ferry terminal, ride bus 250 or 257 from downtown Vancouver, a journey of between 40 and 50 minutes. The ferry journey itself takes another 20 minutes or so. For a quicker option, take a water taxi or pilot your own private speedboat from Granville Island.
When to Get There
Bowen Island is best in summer, when warm weather allows for outdoor activities. The summer season also offers more festivals and events, including outdoor climbing sessions and open-air yoga classes.
Wildlife-Watching near Bowen Island
The boat trip over to Bowen Island takes passengers through the heart of Howe Sound, where a host of wildlife species thrive. As you cruise across from the mainland, look out for harbor seals, which can often be seen at Palm Rocks, and bald eagles. Whales, including humpbacks, have been spotted in the waters of Horseshoe Bay. Bowen Island is free from bears and cougars, though deer do roam freely.
Address: Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
From $ 41
Bloedel Floral Conservatory
Atop a hill in Queen Elizabeth Park, the Bloedel Floral Conservatory—or simply Bloedel Conservatory—overlooks downtown Vancouver and the North Shore Mountains. The domed structure is divided into three climatic zones: tropical, subtropical, and desert. It houses plants and free-flying birds with eye-catching plumage.
The Basics
Purchase tickets for the Bloedel Conservatory in advance and explore the site independently, wandering at your preferred pace. Among the many different species growing here, you’ll find succulents, cacti, banyans, and colorful orchids. Look out for the free-flying birds that inhabit the conservatory, which range from rainbow-colored Gouldian finches to chatty African parrots.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Bloedel Conservatory is an ideal rainy- or cold-day destination for families.
- Pick up a bird-watching checklist from the front desk to help you identify the various species you see.
- The conservatory is wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
The Bloedel Conservatory is in Queen Elizabeth Park, less than 15 minutes’ drive from downtown Vancouver. To get there using public transit, take the SkyTrain (Canada Line) to King Edward Station. From there, it’s 15–20 minutes to the conservatory on foot. Alternatively, ride bus 15 to Cambie Street/West 33rd Avenue.
When to Get There
Though it’s open year-round, the Bloedel Conservatory is a particularly welcome place to while away a cold or wet winter’s day, as the interior is warm and balmy. Weekend afternoons are the busiest time, so come early in the morning or midweek.
What Else to See at Queen Elizabeth Park
While you’re at the conservatory, it’s worth setting aside some time to explore surrounding Queen Elizabeth Park. On warm days, children love splashing around in the jets of the Dancing Waters fountain outside the conservatory, while older visitors will enjoy browsing the artists’ offerings at Painters’ Corner. A stroll around the park may also lead you to the quarry garden, the rose garden, or one of several public artworks, including the bronze sculpture Knife Edge Two Piece by the renowned English sculptor Henry Moore.
Address: 4600 Cambie St., Vancouver, BC, Canada
Admission: Varies
From $ 5
Clifton Hill
Clifton Hill is a neon-heavy, Vegas-like strip filled with a concentrated cluster of family-friendly attractions and entertainment options. Ripley’s Believe It or Not!, the 175-foot (53-meter) Niagara SkyWheel, Guinness World Records Museum, Louis Tussaud’s Waxworks, and several haunted houses are among its prominent points of interest.
The Basics
The bustling promenade of Clifton Hill is one of Niagara Falls most attraction-packed thoroughfares. Many visitors to the falls will find themselves here at some point, whether en route to a Hornblower Cruise or to visit one of the many other attractions based here.
Visitors can pre-purchase tickets for Ripley's Believe It or Not! Museum and for the Niagara SkyWheel, which offers a bird’s-eye view of the Horseshoe and American falls, Niagara River, and Niagara Parks. If you plan on visiting a few of the major attractions here, consider opting for a multi-attraction Clifton Hill pass, which will get you access to the Niagara SkyWheel, Movieland Wax Museum of Stars, the Wild West Coaster ride, the Zombie Attack experience, the Ghost Blasters Dark Ride, and either Wizards’ Golf or Dinosaur Adventure Golf.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Clifton Hill is a must-do for families and thrill-seekers.
- Lots of restaurants, bars, and cafés are located along the strip.
- Some of Clifton Hill’s attractions, including the Niagara SkyWheel, Wild West Coaster, and Wizards Golf, are wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
Clifton Hall is located in Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada, connecting River Road on Niagara Parkway to the intersection of Victoria Avenue. To get there, ride the WEGO red, blue, or green line buses to the Clifton Hill/Hornblower Niagara Cruises stop.
When to Get There
Clifton Hill is fun to visit in any season, with attractions, like the Niagara SkyWheel, Fallsview Indoor Waterpark, and the Fun House, open throughout the year. Summers are when Clifton Hill is liveliest and arguably most atmospheric, though in winter, the Winter Festival of Lights helps ensure it’s never dull. Visit Clifton Hill early in the morning, while other sightseers are just waking up, to avoid the biggest crowds.
How to View the Niagara Illuminations from Clifton Hill
To get the most out of your Clifton Hill experience, wait until night to go up the SkyWheel. Once it’s dark, you’ll be able to see the Falls Illumination, during which Niagara Falls is lit up with twinkling LED lights. During the summer months, you may even get to see the Niagara Falls Fireworks spectacle from the pod of the Ferris wheel, which rises 175 feet (53 meters).
Address: 4960 Clifton Hill, Niagara Falls L2G 3N4, Canada
Admission: Free
From $ 8
Annapolis Valley
Running along the south shore of the Bay of Fundy, Nova Scotia’s fertile Annapolis Valley produces some of Canada’s finest fruit and vegetables. Apple orchards and vineyards carpet the verdant valley, U-pick farms and farmers markets abound, and several historic sites recount the history of early Acadian settlers.
The Basics
With its pretty rural landscapes and dramatic coastline, the Annapolis Valley is a popular option among hikers, cyclists, sea kayakers, and wildlife enthusiasts; you can spot whales in the adjacent Bay of Fundy. Many tours of the Annapolis Valley focus on the culinary scene, offering the chance to taste local Canadian wines at Annapolis Valley wineries, chow down on fresh Bay of Fundy seafood, and sample delicious local products, from fresh produce to condiments.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Annapolis Valley is a must for food and wine lovers.
- Rain is common in the Annapolis Valley, even in summer, so come prepared with waterproof gear.
- Some wineries in the region, such as Luckett Vineyards, and several attractions, such as the Grand Pré National Historic Site, are wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
Annapolis Bay is situated north of Halifax in Nova Scotia. Fly into Halifax Airport and drive north, or take the ferry from Saint John, New Brunswick to Digby, Nova Scotia. Driving gives visitors the most flexibility, but with so many wineries in the region, you may be better off going as part of an organized tour so you can indulge in tastings.
When to Get There
May through October is the best time to visit Annapolis Valley, as temperatures are mild and pleasant. The valley is at its most picturesque in May, when the apple orchards blossom. The fall harvest, meanwhile, is a good time to pick fruit at local farms.
Historic Sites in the Valley
In addition to being a foodie hotspot, the Annapolis Valley also has several historic attractions that recall the area’s colonial past. The Grand Pré National Historic Site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, remembers the expulsion of the Acadians (early French settlers) by the British; the Port Royal National Historic Site and the Fort Anne National Historic Site look back at early Acadian settlements in the region.
Address: Canada
From $ 123
Bonsecours Market
Built in the 1840s, this neoclassical silver-domed building has served as a farmers market, theater, and for a brief stint as Montreal's city hall. It was threatened with demolition before being converted into the current market complex, which contains cafes, restaurants, galleries, and shops selling Quebec-made crafts and design items.
The Basics
A National Historic Site in the heart of Old Montreal (Vieux-Montreal), Bonsecours Market is commonly visited by travelers exploring on foot. Wander around the shops at your leisure, admiring high-quality products ranging from kitchenware to handmade jewelry. Galleries inside the market display works from First Nations and Quebec artists.
Many walking tours of Old Montreal include time at the market. Guides can provide additional information on the history of the market, which has witnessed many periods of political turbulence.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Bonsecours Market is a must for architecture enthusiasts and shoppers looking to pick up quality local goods.
- Several restaurants and cafes can be found within the market.
- Bonsecours Market is partially though not fully wheelchair accessible, and some of the surrounding cobbled streets may prove challenging.
How to Get There
Bonsecours Market is in Old Montreal next to the Old Port (Vieux-Port). The nearest metro station is Champ-de-Mars (Orange Line), which is less than 10 minutes away on foot.
When to Get There
The indoor Bonsecours Market is open year-round. In winter, it provides a warm shelter from the freezing city streets, while in the hot summer, it serves as a cooling refuge. The market is typically busier during summer, when more tourists are in town.
What to See Nearby
Bonsecours Market is in Old Montreal, a district known for its atmospheric cobbled streets and historic architecture, some of which date back to the early days of New France. While you're in the area, be sure to take a stroll down Rue Saint-Paul, on which the market is located. This cobbled stretch is one of the city's prettiest thoroughfares. Other worthwhile attractions within easy walking distance of the market include the 18th-century Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel and Ramezay Castle (Chateau Ramezay), the 18th-century residence of French governors, which now serves as a history museum displaying historic art, furniture, and other items.
Address: 350 rue St-Paul Est, Vieux Montreal, Montreal, Canada
Admission: Varies
From $ 15
Cleveland Dam
Built in 1954, the Cleveland Dam was constructed for a number of important reasons. Unlike many other dams though, this one is not used for hydroelectricity. Instead, the original purpose of the dam was to hold back water entering into Burrard Inlet, which used to come in at a heavy pace carrying with it a hearty amount of silt and rocks, as well as a heavy current. Cleveland Dam was also constructed to protect a means of fresh drinking water for the lower mainland of Vancouver. In fact, the lake above Cleveland Dam provides the lower mainland with a whopping 40% of its fresh drinking water.
These days, Cleveland Dam makes up a part of North Vancouver that has quickly become a popular tourism destination and in the area around the dam, there are a number of parks and hiking paths. The dam itself sits in a protected park called Capilano River Regional Park, which also encompasses Capilano Lake, the body of water that the 300-foot spillway of the dam encloses. In the area, visitors can also find attractions such as the Capilano Suspension Bridge, Lynn Canyon Park, and Grouse Mountain.
Practical Info
Cleveland Dam is located in North Vancouver and if you’re heading there by car from the downtown area, is best reached via Stanley Park, the Lion's Gate Bridge and Capilano Road. You can also reach the Dam via public transport by catching bus No. 426 toward Highland. The journey takes about 45 minutes and busses leave around every 30 minutes.
Address: North Vancouver, BC, Canada
From $ 121