Choose from 290 Fun Things to Do in Canada
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Toronto Harbor
The Toronto Harbour comprises of a few areas. Running east to west from Jarvis, just south of Queens Quay to lower- Spadina along and south of of Queens Quay is the downtown Harbourfront area. The focal point of the Harbour also known as The Harbourfront is where the Harbourfront Centre, Power Plant art gallery and Queens Quay Terminal are located. At Bay and Queens Quay, the walkway to the ferries ($7 per adult each way) to access the Toronto Islands.
The Harbourfront has transformed over the years due to the proliferation of condo developments and a new population that never existed. It is now become more of a destination due to its revitalization. You can picnic, rent a boat or take a tour over to the Toronto Islands or simply walk along the boardwalk. Key spots to picnic other than the islands are on the man-made beaches, mainly Sugar Beach (named after the Redpath Sugar Factory nearby) and the HtO Park, on Queens Quay near Rees Street, known for their pink and yellow umbrellas, respectively. You can get your picnic supplies at supermarkets Loblaws (at Jarvis St.) or at Sobeys (at York St.). Alternative dining options are plenty due to the number of sprawling patios with a lakefront view including The Watermark and the newly opened Amsterdam Brewery. Toronto’s food truck scene has also made wave for vendors to open in the newly opened Ontario and Canada Squares (appropriately opened on Canada Day, 2013).
There are plenty of photo opportunities and landmarks including the “Light Showers” waterfall installation at the Sherbourne Common urban park; the eco-friendly building housing the media company, Corus; the Simcoe wavedeck; the installations at Canada and Ontario Square; and the Toronto Music Garden, inspired by cellist Yo Yo Ma, where you can watch free concerts.
The Harbourfront has transformed over the years due to the proliferation of condo developments and a new population that never existed. It is now become more of a destination due to its revitalization. You can picnic, rent a boat or take a tour over to the Toronto Islands or simply walk along the boardwalk. Key spots to picnic other than the islands are on the man-made beaches, mainly Sugar Beach (named after the Redpath Sugar Factory nearby) and the HtO Park, on Queens Quay near Rees Street, known for their pink and yellow umbrellas, respectively. You can get your picnic supplies at supermarkets Loblaws (at Jarvis St.) or at Sobeys (at York St.). Alternative dining options are plenty due to the number of sprawling patios with a lakefront view including The Watermark and the newly opened Amsterdam Brewery. Toronto’s food truck scene has also made wave for vendors to open in the newly opened Ontario and Canada Squares (appropriately opened on Canada Day, 2013).
There are plenty of photo opportunities and landmarks including the “Light Showers” waterfall installation at the Sherbourne Common urban park; the eco-friendly building housing the media company, Corus; the Simcoe wavedeck; the installations at Canada and Ontario Square; and the Toronto Music Garden, inspired by cellist Yo Yo Ma, where you can watch free concerts.
Practical Info
Due to the revitalization of Queens Quay to be completed by 2015, construction from York to Spadina has affected streetcar service from Union Station. It is best to walk from Union Station over to Bay or York and south to Queens Quay if you are going to the central part of Harbourfront. The Harbourfront is best explored by foot or on bike; there are a number of Bixi bike stations available in the area and throughout downtown.
Address: Queens Quay at York St., Toronto, ON, Canada
Hours: Open 24 Hours
From $ 16
Toronto Islands
Though Toronto’s high-rise skyline is in sight, the Toronto Islands—a chain of islands scattered off the shore of Lake Ontario—feel a world away. The islands, once a narrow peninsula, were cut off from the mainland by violent storms, and now their sandy coastlines and verdant parklands serve as a peaceful escape for the city-weary.
The Basics
The three most visited destinations in the Toronto Islands are Centre Island, Ward’s Island, and Hanlan’s Point, which together make up Toronto Island Park. Centre Island features an old-timey amusement park called Centreville, which encompasses a reconstructed turn-of-the-20th-century Main Street, a petting farm, and quaint rides including an antique carousel. Hanlan’s Point is known for its sandy beach—a portion of which is clothing optional—and barbecue-friendly fire pits. Ward’s Island, the easternmost tip of Centre Island, also has an attractive beach. The islands are car-free, so most visitors explore on foot or by bike. Rent a canoe, kayak, or paddleboat to get out on the water. To escape the crowds and reach off-the-beaten path locales, try a stand-up paddleboarding tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Toronto Islands are a must-see for families and beach lovers.
- Bring sunscreen and a hat if you plan on spending time on the beach.
- Rent a bike to travel between the main islands, which are connected by paths.
- Ferries to the island are accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
The Toronto Islands are accessible only by boat. City-run ferries depart from the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal, located at the end of Bay Street on Queen’s Quay, and connect with Centre Island, Ward’s Island, and Hanlan’s Point during spring, summer, and fall. During winter, only the Ward’s Island ferry route operates. Private water taxis also go to the islands.
When to Get There
On hot summer weekends, the Toronto Islands are often thronged. Get there early to stake out a good spot on the beach. Hanlan’s Point and Ward’s Island are usually quieter than Centre Island. Stick around until sunset to see the city skyline light up.
Best Swimming Spots on the Toronto Islands
Swimming is one of the most popular activities on the Toronto Islands, as the waters are calm and offer a great way to cool off from the sweltering summer heat. Centre Island Beach is a common choice for families who want to be near the attractions of Centreville. Quieter options include Hanlan’s Point Beach, half of which is a designated nudist beach; Ward’s Island Beach; and Gibraltar Point Beach, home to a supposedly haunted old lighthouse.
Address: Harbourfront, Toronto, Canada
Admission: Ferry rides: C$7.71 round trip for adults
From $ 19
Alexander Falls
Located in the Callaghan Valley, the 141-foot Alexander Falls make for a beautiful day trip destination from Whistler Village. Just be sure to bring a picnic, as it's a favorite lunch spot for locals and visitors alike. Picnic tables are surrounded by thick forest, and the crashing waterfall adds atmosphere to this wilderness setting that makes it easy to forget it's only 30 minutes back to the hustle of a major tourist resort.
Alexander Falls is only minutes from Whistler Olympic Park and its cross-country ski trails, built for the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics, which are open throughout the winter. In the summer, the trails double as walking paths and bike trails. Hiking trails that lead further into Callaghan Valley Provincial Park offer access to more pristine nature, while campsites at Callaghan and Madeley Lake provide a beautiful"“ and absolutely free"“place to spend the night.
The Callaghan Valley access road is one of the best places to spot wildlife in the Whistler area, too, including both black and grizzly bears.
Practical Info
Alexander Falls is located 30 minutes south of Whistler Village and just minutes from Whistler Olympic Park, where the 2010 Winter Olympic ski jumping and cross-country skiing events took place.
Address: Whistler, BC, Canada
From $ 160
Shannon Falls
To call Shannon Falls spectacular is an understatement. The falls plunge 1,100 feet (335 meters), making it the third tallest in British Columbia, and it’s right on the edge of the Sea to Sky Highway. It’s also just a stone’s throw from Howe Sound, too, making this small Provincial Park one of the most popular stops along the Sea to Sky Highway between Vancouver and Whistler.
Cover those camera lenses while exploring the base of the waterfalls, especially in the spring and fall when water levels are at their highest, as mist from the waterfalls almost always soaks the boardwalk trail that winds through old growth forest beneath the falls.
The newest attraction at Shannon Falls is the Sea to Sky Gondola, which carries visitors high above the valley floor for stunning views. For more adventurous visitors, Shannon Falls is also the trailhead for a challenging 6.2-mile (10-km round-trip hike to the top of the Stawamus Chief. Expect to see plenty of avid climbers, too, as the Chief (as it’s known locally) is one of Canada’s premier rock climbing areas. From the summit, the views of Squamish, Howe Sounds and the surrounding coastal mountains are absolutely stunning, and it's also possible to see the summits of Mt Habrich and Mt Sky Pilot, which are the sources of Shannon Falls.
Practical Info
Shannon Falls Provincial Park is located on the east side of the Sea to Sky Highway, 44 miles (70 km) north of Vancouver.
Address: Britannia Beach, BC V0N 1J0, Canada
From $ 83
Canada's Sports Hall of Fame
Much more than a static collection of sports memorabilia, Canada's Sports Hall of Fame honors the country's most remarkable athletes with an electric 40,000 square foot space that echoes with the roar of fans. Tucked into one of the buildings that hosted the 1988 Winter Olympic Games, interactive exhibits educate visitors about the rules and challenges of more obscure sports and offer the chance to throw pitches for clocked speed, shadow box with Lennox Lewis, attempt a wheelchair race or balance on skis on a virtual downhill slope.
There are sections dedicated to swimming and rowing, car racing, golfing and, of course, hockey, spread throughout 12 galleries. Over 1,000 culturally significant sports artifacts"”including the shoe that amputee Terry Fox wore at the start of his epic cross-country cancer awareness run"”are also on display. Each year new Hall of Fame honorees are inducted at a prestigious ceremony and featured, along with details of the more than 600 current members, in the Locker Room Gallery.
Practical Info
The center is located at 169 Canada Olympic Rd. S.W. in Calgary. It is open from 10am-5pm daily in July and August and from Tuesday through Sunday the rest of the year. Admission is $12 for adults and $8 for kids age 4-18, with discounts for seniors and groups.
Address: 169 Canada Olympic Rd. S.W., Calgary, Alberta, Canada
Hours: July-August 10am-5pm daily; Tues-Sun the rest of the year
Admission: Adults: $12; Children: $8
From $ 10
Callaghan Valley
Full of ancient forest and surrounded by Pacific Coastal mountains 56 miles (90 km) north of Vancouver, Callaghan Valley is real BC backcountry. In summer, the valley is home to backpackers and hikers looking for a wilderness experience, while in winter, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing is popular, with over 45 miles (70 km) of cross-country trails and six miles (10 km) of snowshoe trails to explore.
Home to the 2010 Winter Olympics' Nordic events, the wall of mountains that surrounds the valley creates a unique climate that sees some of the deepest snowfall in the whole of Canada. The ski season is often 150 days long, running right into mid-April.
In spring and summer, Callaghan Valley is all wildflower meadows and wetlands, where you can go lakeside camping, canoeing, boating, fishing and hiking. The 6,590-acre (2,667-hectare) park is also prime wildlife-spotting territory. Look out for bobcats and squirrels, black-tailed deer and moose, black and grizzly bears.
Practical Info
Forty-four miles (70 km) north of Vancouver and 12 miles (20 km) south of Whistler on Highway 99, Callaghan Valley is best reached by car, shuttle or taxi ($40 one way ) from Whistler, which is the closest town to the valley.
Address: British Columbia V0N 1B1, Canada
From $ 160
Calgary Stampede
Billing itself as the greatest outdoor show on earth, you can expect something special at the Calgary Stampede. And with everything you've come to love about rodeos, state fairs, grandstands, concerts and carousels, something special is what you get. Every year since 1923, this ten day event annually attracts more than a million people who come to see what happens when you offer the biggest payouts to rodeo contestants and marry it with chuckwagon races, blacksmithing competitions, midway, markets, dancing, singing, and a heavy native people's participation. It's an event of grand scale that kicks off with an opening parade featuring dozens of marching bands, over 150 floats, clowns, dancers, politicians and business leaders. It's extravagant, beautiful, dusty, and it smells like funnel cake and horses "“ in short, it's the defining event of Calgary, and they wouldn't have it any other way.
Practical Info:
The Calgary Stampede takes place around the second week in July at 1410 Olympic Way SE, Calgary, AB T2G 2W1, Canada.
Address: 1410 Olympic Way SE, Calgary AB T2G 2W1, Canada
Admission: General: $16; Children and Seniors: $8
From $ 33
Crowfoot Glacier
The Crowfoot Glacier, named for its three glacier toes that once formed a very visual representation of the black bird's foot, has retreated so much since early explorers discovered and named it that it has actually lost an entire digit. Despite its lost toe, the Crowfoot Glacier viewpoint on the Icefield Parkway is still spectacular, especially for northbound travelers due to its position as the first of many up-close viewpoints along the drive.
Opposite this spot is the Helen Lake trailhead. This popular hike is strenuous, but the reward is in the stunning mountain scenery, as the trail crosses a series of alpine meadows covered in summertime wildflowers as it climbs toward Helen Lake. The best views of the Crowfoot Glacier are found further up the trail, but only hikers willing to tackle the steep Helen Lake Headwall will have unobstructed views of the Wapta Icefield, which lies beyond the Continental Divide.
Practical Info
Both the Crowfoot Glacier viewpoint and the Helen Lake Trailhead are found 22 miles (35 km) north of Lake Louise on the Icefield Parkway. The Helen Lake trail is 7.5 miles (12 km), and most hikers require four to five hours to complete the trek.
Address: Icefield Parkway, Banff, Canada
From $ 202
Toronto Eaton Centre
Known as a landmark as well as one of Canada’s most well-known retail centres--with over 200 shops-- it’s hard to miss the Eaton Centre in the heart of Toronto’s downtown core, stretching over two city blocks. Named after the now-defunct Eaton’s department store chain led by Timothy Eaton, the retailer filed for bankruptcy in 1999; Sears acquired all assets, though the Centre still retains its name.
Architecturally, the Centre is known for its flock of Canadian geese, designed by artist Michael Snow, suspended from the centre of a glass-galleria. During the holiday season, a massive Christmas Tree towers in the centre of the mall -- the swarovski crystal decorations have been popular with visitors and shutterbugs.
The mall has 7 different restaurants and a modern food court --renovated in 2011--appealing to all tastes. The mall is still undergoing renovations near the Queen entrance yet the Centre remains one of Toronto’s biggest tourist attractions, drawing 50 million visitors a year.
Architecturally, the Centre is known for its flock of Canadian geese, designed by artist Michael Snow, suspended from the centre of a glass-galleria. During the holiday season, a massive Christmas Tree towers in the centre of the mall -- the swarovski crystal decorations have been popular with visitors and shutterbugs.
The mall has 7 different restaurants and a modern food court --renovated in 2011--appealing to all tastes. The mall is still undergoing renovations near the Queen entrance yet the Centre remains one of Toronto’s biggest tourist attractions, drawing 50 million visitors a year.
Practical Info
There are two main entrances to the mall, both at Yonge: the Queen Street entrance from the South (Subway stop: Queen) and the Dundas Street entrance from the North (Subway stop: Dundas). If you are walking, you can enter near the middle of the mall at Shuter and Yonge. The main food court is at the Dundas entrance; across the street is Dundas Square (for entertainment) and a movie theatre/restaurants, located on the north-east side of Yonge & Dundas. There are also more shops in the vicinity of Yonge and Dundas, including The World’s Biggest Bookstore (now Indigo) on Edward Street. The Bay department store is across the street from the mall on Queen Street. Steps west from the Queen street side is City Hall and Nathan Phillips Square. Also nearby are entertainment venues, Massey Hall and Elgin/Winter Garden Theatre. Mall hours are extended during the winter holiday season.
Address: 220 Yonge St, Toronto, ON, Canada
Hours: Mon-Fri: 10am-9pm; Sat 9:30am-7pm; Sun: 11am-6pm
From $ 33
Underground City
Montreal’s Underground City (Montréal Souterrain) is a vast indoor complex that extends across a large portion of Downtown Montreal. Subterranean tunnels connect malls, hotels, cinemas, theaters, offices, museums, banks, universities, and metro stations, serving as a warm refuge during the city’s brutal winters.
The Basics
With some 20 miles (33 kilometers) of tunnels, 190 access points, and thousands of shops, the Underground City can be something of a maze, especially to the uninitiated. To avoid getting lost, consider joining a guided tour. Tours of the complex show off highlights of the underground realm, which features everything from shopping malls to public artworks and even a segment of the Berlin Wall.
Some tours split their time between the Underground City and the ground-level attractions of Downtown Montreal, stopping at landmarks such as Christ Church Cathedral and the monument-dotted Dorchester Square.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Underground City is a must for visitors who want to shop, eat, or simply escape the frigid winter temperatures.
- Find Underground City maps at Montreal metro stations.
- Many of the major complexes, malls, and attractions in the Underground City are wheelchair-accessible with street-level access and elevators, though some of the tunnels and metro stations are not.
How to Get There
Access points to the Underground City can be found throughout Downtown Montreal. Easy-to-find entrances include malls such as the Eaton Centre, Les Cours Mont-Royal, and Complexe Desjardins. The underground complex is also connected to metro stations, including Atwater, Peel, McGill, Place des Arts, Berri UQAM, Bonaventure, Square-Victoria, and Place d’Armes. Entrances to the Underground City are marked RÉSO.
When to Get There
With heating and air-conditioning keeping temperatures in the tunnels pleasant, the best time to visit is during extreme weather—whether that be humid summer days or the freezing chill of winter.
What to See in the Underground City
For shopping, head to the Eaton Centre and Complexe Desjardins, where you’ll find high-street chains, independent stores, cafés, restaurants, and fast-food outlets. For something a little more cultural, browse the exhibits at the Montreal Museum of Contemporary Art (Musée d'Art Contemporain) or head to the Palais des Congrès de Montréal, which hosts numerous conventions and events every year, including Montreal Comiccon. For a bird’s-eye view of the city, ascend to the 607-foot-high (185-meter-high) observation deck at Place Ville Marie.
Address: 800 Rue de la Gauchetière O, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
From $ 19
Tunnel Mountain Drive
Banff’s Buffalo Street transforms into the picturesque Tunnel Mountain Drive at Surprise Corner. It provides a view most visitors know before they’ve even seen it, as the area looks out on Banff’s most famous landmark, the historic Banff Springs Hotel, which has been featured in countless photos. The rest of the driving loop is equally beautiful with panoramic views of Bow Valley as it winds through pristine fir and pine forests. Even though Tunnel Mountain Drive is on the edge of Banff’s town limits, it’s common to see both elk and deer along the route. It’s also possible (especially in the spring and fall) to spot a black or grizzly bear in the area.
Whether jumping out of the car to explore Banff’s hoodoos (impressive geological formations) or to climb to the summit of Tunnel Mountain, the immense beauty of the Canadian Rockies is never far away. It’s even possible to spend the night in the mountain wilderness while remaining within walking distance of downtown. Hotels, cabin rentals, a youth hostel and several campgrounds lie along Tunnel Mountain Drive and most are only a little over a mile from town.
Practical Info
Beginning on Banff’s Main Street, Tunnel Mountain Drive is a three-mile, easy-to-follow scenic drive.
Address: Tunnel Mountain Drive, Banff, Canada
Hours: Daily
From $ 109
Biodome de Montreal
The Americas are home to four ecosystems, and at the Biodome de Montreal you'll be able to walk through them all (well, replicas of them at least). Visitors will be guided by naturalists through the biodome, traveling through the tropical rainforest, Laurentian maple forest, Gulf of St. Lawrence and Sub-Antarctic Islands, and observing over 4,800 animals representing 230 species and about 750 plants. Interestingly, these exhibits are housed in what was once the cycling stadium used in the 1976 Summer Olympics. Essentially, the experience is similar to visiting a zoo but delivers more of an immersive experience that makes you feel like you're really in the wild.
While there is much to learn about as well as flora and fauna to see in these four ecosystems, there are a few highlights of a visit to the Biodome de Montreal. You'll see king penguins in the Sub-Antarctic Islands, adorable puffins in the Labrador Coast, beautiful lynx of the Laurentian Maple Forest, and about 20 fish species in the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Probably the most interesting eco-system in terms of animals is the Tropical Rainforest, where you'll find monkeys, parrots, capybaras, two-toed sloths, anacondas, yacare caimans and many others. Along with seeing wildlife, you'll learn about environmental issues impacting these ecosystems.
You also have the option to visit their Botanical Gardens, featuring 75 hectares (185 acres) with 10 greenhouses and 35 themed gardens. Some of these include the Chinese Garden, First Nations Garden, Japanese Garden, Alpine Garden, and Courtyard of the Senses.
Practical Info
The Biodome de Montreal is located at 4777 Pierre-De Coubertin Avenue. Hours of operation are Tuesday through Sunday, 9am to 5pm (closed December 24 and 25). Admission is $18.75 for adults, $17.50 for seniors 65 and older, $14.00 for students 18+ with ID, $9.50 for students 5 to 17, and $52.50 for families. Discounts available to Quebec residents.
Address: 4777 Avenue Pierre-de Coubertin, Montreal QC H1V 3N7, Canada
From $ 88
Athabasca Glacier
Part of the vast Columbia Icefield that straddles the border between Alberta's Banff and Jasper National Parks, the Athabasca Glacier"”a huge swath of moving ice"”is one of the most accessible and awe-inspiring glaciers in North America. Like most glaciers, Athabasca is shrinking, though the slowly moving ice mass is still impressively large: It covers an area of about 2.3 square miles (six square kilometers) and measures up to 980 feet (300 meters) at its thickest point.
The Basics
Most visitors begin their Athabasca explorations at the Icefield Centre, where interpretive displays and a Parks Canada kiosk provide information on the glacier. Across from the center is the 2.2-mile (3.6-kilometer) Forefield Trail, which crosses over a boulder-scattered area once covered by the glacial ice, and the 1.1-mile (1.8-kilometer) Toe of the Athabasca Glacier Trail, which leads right to the glacier's edge. To venture farther out on the 10,000-year-old glacier, join a tour on the Ice Explorer, a purpose-built all-terrain vehicle. Or opt for a hiking tour led by alpine guides. Organized day trips depart from Jasper and Banff, and most incorporate other Canadian Rockies highlights, such as Lake Louise, the Glacier Skywalk, and Crowfoot Glacier.
Things to Know Before You Go
- It can be cold and windy near the glacier, so wear warm layers.
- Pay heed to warning tape, which is designed to keep visitors away from dangerous crevasses.
- Bring an empty bottle or cup to fill up with fresh, glacial water.
- The Icefield Centre is accessible to wheelchair users, and the Ice Explorer fleet includes vehicles equipped to carry wheelchairs.
How to Get There
The Athabasca Glacier is located along Icefields Parkway, a scenic 143-mile (230-kilometer) highway connecting Jasper with Lake Louise. The Icefield Centre is about 64 miles (103 kilometers) from Jasper and 53 miles (185 kilometers) from Banff. If driving, be aware that only one gas station operates on the parkway, and is open only during the summer season.
When to Get There
Glacier tours are weather-dependent and usually run from around mid-April to mid-October. Avoid the winter months, when the Icefield Centre is closed and conditions can sometimes render the Icefields Parkway impassable. Go before lunchtime or after 3pm to avoid peak visiting hours.
The Columbia Icefield
The Athabasca Glacier is just one of eight major glaciers that make up the 125-square-mile (325-square-kilometer) Columbia Icefield, one of the biggest masses of snow and ice south of the Arctic Circle. The glacier lies on the Continental Divide, with all of its meltwater eventually ending up in one of three places: the Arctic Ocean, the Pacific Ocean, or the Atlantic Ocean.
Address: Icefields Parkway, Banff T1W 1J2, Canada
From $ 202
Spiral Tunnels
An outstanding feat of engineering, the Spiral Tunnels in Yoho National Park were the ingenious early–20th-century solution to climbing or descending the impossibly steep 4.5-percent grade to cross Kicking Horse Pass by rail. Watch long freight trains cross themselves as they travel the tunnels in different directions at the same time.
The Basics
It may take some patience, but you’ll be rewarded by the fascinating sight of freight trains (and the occasional passenger train) carving a figure eight through the mountains. It appears as though three trains are on the rails as parts of the train enter and exit the tunnels, giving the illusion they are moving separately.
See this fascinating example of brilliant railway engineering from either of two viewpoints—an upper and a lower—on a Banff National Park group day tour from Banff or Calgary, or as part of a self-driven tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Train enthusiasts and history buffs won’t want to miss seeing the Spiral Tunnels in action.
- Freight trains don’t follow a schedule, so be patient and be prepared to wait a bit to train-spot.
- The lower viewpoint has a commemorative monument, information plaques, and restrooms. The upper viewpoint has no amenities.
- Both viewpoints are accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
How to Get There
The Lower Spiral Tunnel viewpoint is located on the Trans-Canada Highway (Hwy 1), 4.6 miles (7.4 kilometers) east of Field, British Columbia and 52 miles (84 kilometers) west of Banff, Alberta. There is also a pull-off viewpoint (of the Upper Spiral) on Yoho Valley Road, on the way to Takakkaw Falls from Field.
When to Get There
The lower tunnel viewpoint is open from mid-May until mid-October; the upper viewpoint (and access via Yoho Valley Road) is open from mid-June to mid-October. During the warmer months, trains run fairly frequently—up to every 15 minutes on some days—although they don’t follow a schedule.
CP Rail and the Big Hill
After the first rail attempt over Kicking Horse Pass ended in derailment and the tragic deaths of three railway workers in 1884, Canadian Pacific Railway devised the Big Hill solution. A series of switches allowed runaway trains a safe place to divert onto spur lines, not descending the grade until the train was under control. The introduction of the Spiral Tunnels in 1909 brought the grade to a much safer and more manageable 2 percent.
Address: Spiral Tunnels, Banff, Canada
From $ 141
Capital Observatory (Observatoire de la Capitale)
Towering over Parliament Hill at the 31st floor of the city's highest skyscraper, Capital Observatory is Quebec City's premier and uppermost viewpoint. Having welcomed over a million visitors since it first opened its doors in 1998, it offers breathtaking panoramas 221 meters over sea level of not only Quebec City itself but also the mighty St. Lawrence River, Island of Orleans, Appalachian Foothills and the Laurentians. A special exhibit named Horizons takes visitors on a discovery experience presenting four perspectives of Quebec City filled with cool facts and stories about the local history centered around four main themes: politics, history, culture, and society.
Practical Info
Capital Observatory is located on rue de la Chevrotière in Quebec City, Canada. It can easily be reached by car via Grande Allee and there is ample underground parking inside the building; alternatively, it can also be reached via public transit (buses 1a and 11 at stop Grande Allee Est / du General-De Montcalm or a dozen other lines at stop C. Parlementaire Rene-Levesque Est / Jean Jacques-Bertrand). It is open every day from 10am to 5 pm. Entry costs $14 per adult, $11 per student/+65 year olds. It is free of charge for children under the age of 12.
Address: 1037 De La Chevrotière, Quebec City, Quebec G1R 5E9, Canada
Hours: Every day from 10am to 5pm
Admission: Adults: $14; Students/65+: $11; Under 12: Free
From $ 32
Skylon Tower
Perched on the Canadian side of Niagara Falls, the lofty Skylon Tower is famous for its bird’s-eye views. Boasting a panoramic observation platform, ambient dining, movies, shopping, and activities for the whole family, this 775-foot (236-meter) tower offers an entire day’s worth of entertainment.
The Basics
Begin your experience with a ride in one of the tower’s glass elevators, and speed up to the outer observation deck to take in the views. Head inside to dine in style at the upscale Revolving Dining Room restaurant or grab a bite at the family-friendly Summit Suite Buffet dining room. You can also catch the Legends of Niagara Falls 4D movie, peruse the shopping concourse, or stop by the Family Fun Center for games, rides, and fast food. Combine your visit with a ride on the famed Maid of the Mist boat to get up close and personal with the thundering Niagara Falls, or take a half-day tour to also see attractions such as the Floral Clock, Whirlpool Rapids, and Goat Island. For a special treat, take a helicopter tour of Niagara Falls that includes lunch at Skylon Tower afterwards.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Bring a camera to capture Skylon Tower’s stunning views.
- If you plan to visit from the US, you’ll need your passport to cross the US–Canada border.
- The observation deck is free for diners at both of the tower's restaurants.
- Reserve your restaurant table ahead of time to ensure that space is available.
- The open-air observation deck is not wheelchair accessible; discounted tickets are available for wheelchair and scooter users.
How to Get There
Skylon Tower is located on Robinson Street, roughly two minutes by road from the city center of Niagara Falls, Ontario. Bus transportation is available in the city. The nearest airport is Buffalo Niagara International Airport, 45 minutes away by road.
When to Get There
Because Skylon Tower is an indoor attraction, it’s a popular place to visit at any time of year. Summer is busiest time to visit; make sure to book in advance if you plan to visit in June, July, or August. Nighttime visitors can see Niagara Falls illuminated with colored lights, while those who arrive on summer nights can see fireworks shows light up the sky several times per week.
Views from the Skylon Tower Observation Deck
The Skylon Tower observation deck offers a panoramic view of both Canada and the US. Visitors can gaze out over mighty Niagara Falls, the Great Gorge, Niagara’s wine country, Toronto, and Buffalo, New York. City skylines, thundering waterfalls, and country vistas await those who ride to the top.
Address: 5200 Robinson St, Niagara Falls, ON L2G 2A3, Canada
Hours: Daily 9am - 10pm
From $ 11
Toronto Financial District
Toronto’s Financial District has been the heart of Canada's finance industry since a mass relocation of global bank headquarters from Montreal in the 1960s. Situated in historic Old Toronto, the area hosts an impressively dense collection of skyscrapers and architectural gems, from First Canadian Place to Scotia Plaza.
The Basics
One of Toronto’s busiest neighborhoods, the Financial District is a stop on most hop-on hop-off bus tours, a convenient way for visitors to explore without the hassle of navigating on their own. Others opt for private tours, including a walk through Downtown and Old Toronto in the day’s customized itinerary. A private guide provides context about historic landmarks that visitors often miss when exploring alone, from the Flatiron Building to the Fairmont Hotel.
What to Know Before You Go
- As home to three of Canada’s tallest skyscrapers and a variety of historic 19th-century buildings, Financial District is a must-visit for architecture buffs.
- Don’t forget comfortable shoes, as the area’s best explored on foot.
- There’s a 3-hour time limit for parking in the area unless otherwise specified.
How to Get There
Situated in the heart of Old Town Toronto, the Financial District is easily accessible using the city’s comprehensive public transit system. Take the metro’s 1 line or street car 509 to Union Station, or take bus 6 or streetcar 504 to Bay Street and King Street. Alternatively, the area has a number of bike-share docks, which can be easily located on the Bike Share Toronto website.
When to Get There
As a major hub for banks, law firms, and insurance companies, the Financial District is buzzing during weekday business hours. For a quiet visit, explore in the evenings or on weekends. Summer farmers markets are held at various locations in the Financial District, including Scotia Plaza, Brookfield Place, and Royal Bank Plaza. In addition, a range of restaurants in the area offer prix-fixe menus during Summerlicious restaurant week every July.
PATH
Toronto’s PATH holds the title of the largest underground shopping network in the world. At 4 million square feet (371,600 square meters), PATH connects public transit stops, shopping centers, and office buildings in the core of Downtown Toronto. A visit to the Financial District offers an opportunity to explore the tunnels, which are lined with shops and cafes hidden beneath the city.
Address: Toronto Financial District, Toronto, Canada
From $ 65
Sidney
Sidney, British Columbia, is often called Sidney-by-the-Sea, and it’s an appropriate name. The town is flanked by Haro Strait, which flows directly into the greater Salish Sea. Most of the town’s attractions are either on the water itself or related to it.
Bird watching, whale watching, kayaking and scuba diving are all popular throughout the entire region. The town is also the gateway community to the Gulf Islands National Park Reserve. This small park reserve protects a representative sample of the Strait of Georgia Lowlands, considered one of the most ecologically at risk natural regions in southern Canada.
The Shaw Ocean Discovery Centre, a not-for-profit aquarium and marine education complex focusing on the Salish Sea ecosystem, is located near the Sidney Pier, while both the Shoal Harbour Migratory Bird Sanctuary and Sidney Channel Important Bird Area are located nearby. Sidney is also the only Canadian port of call for the Washington State ferry system. Ferries run to and from Anacortes and the San Juan Islands.
Practical Info
Sidney is located on the Saanich Peninsula, 25 minutes north of Victoria, BC, along Highway 17. It is the closest town to the Victoria Airport and the BC Ferries terminal at Swartz Bay that services the Gulf Islands and the British Columbia Mainland.
Address: Sidney, British Columbia, Canada
From $ 185
Callaghan Lake Provincial Park
British Columbia's Callaghan Valley is a noted backcountry recreation area, so much so that it was home to the 2010 Winter Olympics for biathlon, cross-country skiing, ski jumping, and Nordic skiing. Though the provincial park is famous mainly for winter sports (the average annual snowpack can yield up to 150 days of skiing), the area is just as gorgeous in the summertime. Callaghan Lake is one of the most beautiful and convenient places to camp near Whistler, and the relatively undisturbed wilderness and rugged mountain terrain provide a stunning backdrop to outdoor adventures at any time of the year. Hanging valleys, talus slopes, and waterfalls are just some of the natural sights the park has to offer.
Canoeing, fishing, boating, and hunting go hand-in-hand with rustic lakeside camping and hiking around the numerous wetlands and small lakes found throughout the park (especially in the southern and eastern areas). The main camping area at Callaghan Lake is quite nice, but for a really spectacular place to pitch your tent, try checking out one of the little islands in the lake that can only be accessed by canoe or boat. Boat launches, campfires, picnic areas, toilets, and vehicle-accessible camping are all available at the park.
Practical Info
The park is easily accessed in summer from Highway 99, 43 miles (70 km) north of Vancouver or 12 miles (20 km) south of Whistler. Turn north off the highway onto the paved Callaghan Valley Road for 5 miles (8 km), then turn left following a rough, gravel Forest Service road (Callaghan FSR 01) for another 5 miles (8 km). High-clearance vehicles are recommended. The Forest Service road is not plowed in winter and instead becomes a groomed cross-country ski trail. The closest community, town or city is Whistler, approximately 12 miles (20 km) away. There are no garbage facilities, so always pack out what you pack in.
Address: Whistler, British Columbia, Canada
From $ 160
Champ-de-Mars
A rare pocket of green in a built-up part of downtown Montreal, Champ-de-Mars served as a military parade ground and city parking lot before it was converted into a park in the 1980s. During the conversion, workers unearthed remains from Montreal's old fortifications, and parts of the restored city walls were incorporated into the site.
The Basics
While many travelers explore the park independently, viewing the restored city walls and unwinding on the grassy lawns, guided walking tours of Old Montreal (Vieux-Montreal) offer greater historical insight. These tours typically bring participants to Champ-de-Mars, as well as other key sights in the vicinity such as Notre-Dame Basilica, Place Jacques-Cartier, and Bonsecours Market.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Champ-de-Mars is an ideal place to take a break from sightseeing, with benches allowing visitors to rest their legs.
- Bring along a picnic to enjoy on the grass.
- The Champ-de-Mars metro station is wheelchair accessible, as is the park itself, though snow and slush can hamper access in winter.
How to Get There
Champ-de-Mars is situated in Old Montreal, about a 5-minute walk from the Old Port of Montreal. Take the Orange Line metro to the Champ-de-Mars stop.
When to Get There
The best time to visit is summer, when the park's green lawn makes an inviting place to sit down and relax. For much of winter and early spring (usually between December and April), the park is covered in snow.
What to See Nearby
Champ-de-Mars is near several well-known city attractions. Important municipal institutions including Montreal City Hall and the Palais de Justice courthouse border the park. Just a short stroll away, you'll find Place Jacques-Cartier, a historic city square bordered by bistros and cafes and a common stomping ground for street performers and caricature drawers. Ramezay Castle (Chateau Ramezay), the 18th-century home of French governors and now a history museum, is also within easy walking distance of the park.
Address: Champ-de-Mars, Montreal, Canada
From $ 20