Choose from 290 Fun Things to Do in Canada
ShowingFilter 41-60 of 290 listings.
Athabasca River
The Athabasca River originates from the Columbia Glacier on the Columbia Icefield in Jasper National Park in Alberta, Canada. The Athabasca River is Alberta’s largest undammed river and the second-longest river overall in the province. It travels almost 1,000 miles (1,500 km) northeast across Alberta, and drains into Lake Athabasca in the northeast. The Athabasca runs through the glaciers and snow-covered mountains of Alberta’s Jasper National Park, considered to be one of the most beautiful areas in the Canadian Rocky Mountains. The river is accessible by both road and by rail from all major centers in Alberta and British Columbia. The river offers excellent canoeing, rafting, kayaking, and hiking with all of the usually services and facilities that are usually found in Canada’s national parks. Beautiful waterfalls and trails to explore abound along the river, and it would be an excellent “home base” for a couple of days for any campers wanting to explore more of Jasper National Park.
Practical Info
Jasper National Park is open all year. Though the major roads are always maintained, some road closures may be in effect in certain weather conditions or during the winter. Backpacking, camping, picnicking, mountain biking, cross country skiing, downhill skiing, and ice skating are all activities that can be enjoyed near the Athabasca River in Jasper National Park.
Address: Jasper, Alberta, Canada, Canada
Admission: Jasper National Park entry fee
From $ 56
ByWard Market
Ottawa’s historic food-focused ByWard Market houses hundreds of vendors hawking farm-raised meat, fresh produce, and arts and crafts. Hungry visitors and locals alike flock to this social and shopping hub, where takeout vendors sell ready-to-eat goodies and sit-down eateries offer prime seats for patrons to take in all the market action.
The Basics
ByWard Market has served as a key gathering place and shopping market in Canada’s capital since 1849. Today the historic buildings and open-air marketplace are home to over 260 stands and 600 businesses comprising food stalls, specialty boutiques, eateries, and more. While you can see the market in passing during some sightseeing tours—along with other Ottawa attractions such as the Rideau Canal and Parliament Hill—to experience it at its best, you need to go inside and explore properly. Take a food or wine tour of the city, during which tour guides show you around the market and introduce you to some of the best bites, food purveyors, and local restaurants in the city.
Things to Know Before You Go
- From May through Labor Day (the first Monday of September), ByWard Market Ambassadors are on-hand to provide additional information about the market.
- The market has both indoor and outdoor sections.
- Much of the market and its businesses are accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
ByWard Market encompasses an area of around four blocks, bordered by Rideau Street to the south, Cathcart Street to the north, Cumberland Street to the east, and Sussex Drive to the west. The main brick market building stands between George and York Streets. Numerous local bus routes stop on Rideau Street. On-street parking as well as parking garages are available nearby.
When to Get There
To see the market at its biggest and busiest, go on a summer weekend. It expands during warmer weather, as stalls spill out onto the surrounding streets. Go early to nab the best produce. Opening hours vary from business to business, with most shops opening from early morning to late afternoon, while bars stay open later.
BeaverTails at ByWard Market
Perhaps the most famous snack to be served at ByWard are BeaverTails. This Canadian pastry—which consists of fried dough shaped like a beaver’s tail, topped with cinnamon and sugar—originated here in Ontario and is a much-loved local specialty. Even former US President Barack Obama stopped to buy one during an Ottawa visit in 2009.
Address: 298 Dalhousie Street, Ottawa K1N 1B4, Canada
Hours: Open daily
Admission: Free
From $ 28
Art Gallery of Ontario
A leading Canadian museum, the Art Gallery of Ontario is home of more than 79,000 works of art in its collection, including First Nations and Inuit carvings, noted Canadian works, and European art from Claude Monet, Edgar Degas, Paul Cézanne, Vincent van Gogh, and Pablo Picasso. Toronto-born architect Frank Gehry designed the gallery’s latest renovation.
The Basics
The AGO spans five levels, with galleries dedicated to African art, contemporary art, European art, indigenous and Canadian art, modern art, photography, prints and drawings, and special exhibitions. The museum underwent a large-scale renovation in 2008 by Frank Gehry, the famed American architect who was born in Toronto, and the building itself is a work of art. The Dr. Mariano Elia Hands-On Centre features creative activities for children and families.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Tickets for special exhibitions typically cost extra, but they include regular museum entrance.
- There are two on-site restaurants, caféAGO and AGO Bistro, plus a coffee shop.
- Visitors can purchase souvenirs at the on-site gift shop, shopAGO.
- The museum is wheelchair accessible. A limited supply of wheelchairs and walkers are available to rent and can be reserved in advance.
How to Get There
The AGO is located on Dundas Street between Beverley and McCaul streets, adjacent to Grange Park. To get there by car, take the Gardiner Expressway and exit on Spadina Avenue. Turn right on Dundas Street West. The museum is at the corner of Dundas and Beverley streets. By subway, take the Yonge-University-Spadina line to the St. Patrick stop, a three-block walk from the museum. Or take the Dundas streetcar to McCaul or Beverley streets.
When to Get There
The museum is open every day except Monday. On Wednesday nights from 6 to 9pm, admission to the museum is free, but you should expect longer lines and larger crowds.
Go Down With the Ships
The Thomson Collection of Ship Models, located in the basement of the museum, is a real gem. The models in the collection span 350 years of craftsmanship, including rare examples of 17th and 18th century British dockyard ships. Some, constructed by prisoners of the Napoleonic Wars are made from wood and bone with rigging of silk and human hair.
Address: Baldwin Village, 317 Dundas Street West, Downtown North, Toronto M5T 1G4, Canada
Admission: Varies
From $ 13
FlyOver Canada
This simulated ride takes participants on an exhilarating virtual journey across the country’s most majestic landscapes, from the remote Arctic north to the Rocky Mountains, Niagara Falls, and Canada’s Eastern Seaboard. FlyOver Canada also uses wind, mist, and scents to enhance the sensation of flight.
The Basics
FlyOver Canada is a fun and exhilarating way for Vancouver-based tourists to see more of this expansive country without leaving the city. Tickets can be booked in advance and include access to an immersive preshow. The ride itself surrounds participants with a large spherical screen that displays 3-D vistas of snowcapped mountains, forests, rushing rivers, and glittering cities.
Things to Know Before You Go
- FlyOver Canada is a must for first-time visitors to Canada and for families, who will enjoy the exciting, interactive nature of the ride.
- The ride lasts for just eight minutes, but plan to spend about 30 minutes here to allow for the preshow and the preride briefing.
- The flight simulator ride is relatively gentle and suitable for all ages, providing they are at least 40 inches (102 centimeters) tall.
- Visitors using wheelchairs can transfer to the ride seats independently or with the aid of an assistant, or watch the show from a stationary position on the ride platform.
How to Get There
FlyOver Canada is situated at Canada Place in downtown Vancouver. Ride the SkyTrain to Waterfront Station, and make the 5-minute walk from there.
When to Get There
FlyOver Canada is open from 10am to 9pm daily. Rides take place every 15 to 20 minutes. Save yourself time by purchasing tickets in advance, and then arrive at opening time to get in ahead of the crowds.
What You’ll See at FlyOver Canada
FlyOver Canada showcases the country’s most spectacular terrain. Vistas include dawn in the freezing north near Hudson’s Bay, the floating chunks of white and aquamarine ice of Iceberg Alley in Newfoundland, Toronto’s cityscape at night, the vineyards of Okanagan and the heli-skiers near Bella Coola in British Columbia, kayakers on Quebec’s Rivière-Rouge, and many other epic displays of adventure and raw nature.
Address: 201-999 Canada Place, Vancouver, BC, Canada
From $ 27
Art Gallery of Greater Victoria
A mix of styles come together at the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria, from Asian and Latin American, to contemporary and ethnic artworks.
The gallery exhibits a wide range of sculptures, textiles, prints, paintings and weaving, focusing in particular on Japanese and Canadian works.
An Asian garden surrounds the gallery, underscoring the gallery’s highly prized collection of Asian art inside.
Guided tours, events, classes and educational programs round out the gallery’s cultural calendar.The Art Gallery of Greater Victoria is a few streets east of Victoria Harbour.
Buses run here from downtown, or it’s around a 20-minute stroll from the waterfront.
Address: 1,040 Moss Street, Victoria BC V8V 4P1, Canada
Hours: Open daily, closed Easter Monday, Thanksgiving and Christmas Day
From $ 31
Fortifications of Quebec
Encircling Old Quebec, these historic fortifications are the defense system of the only surviving walled city in North America. Originally developed by the French to protect them from the British, and later by the British to protect them from the Americans, the restored walls are now a National Historic Site.
The Basics
Running for 2.8 miles (4.6 kilometers) around the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Old Quebec, the Fortifications of Quebec, which were built between the 17th and 19th centuries, are hard to miss. You can follow the circuit yourself, admiring the sweeping views of the city and the St. Lawrence River from the walls. Alternatively, go as part of guided walking tours during the summer months, during which tour leaders provide background on the the city’s military past. You can also view the ramparts during hop-on hop-off bus tours, and bike tours of Quebec City.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The fortifications are a must-do for anyone with an interest in military history and defense.
- Wear sturdy walking shoes, as some parts of the fortifications are sloping and uneven.
- Most of the fortifications are not wheelchair-friendly, though the Citadelle of Quebec (La Citadelle) is.
- Consider bringing a picnic to enjoy on the fortifications.
How to Get There
A good place to start your fortifications walk is at St. John Gate (Porte St-Jean) near Place D’Youville. The square is about a 10-minute walk from Château Frontenac. Local buses stop at nearby D’Youville bus terminal.
When to Get There
The best time to explore the fortifications is during summer, when the warm temperatures make for pleasant strolling. Go early in the morning to experience it at its quietest. The fortifications are also a nice place to watch the sunset.
Old Quebec’s Defenses
Though Quebec’s defensive walls are now used more for sightseeing and recreation, evidence of their military purpose still exists. Look out for cannons near the Citadelle of Quebec, which point out to the river as well as to the city itself. At Porte Saint-Louis, take a short detour down Rue Saint-Louis until the intersection with Rue du Corps de Garde, where you can see a rogue cannonball lodged in the trunk of a tree—a vestige from an old battle.
Address: 100 rue St-Louis, Old Upper Town, Quebec City, Canada
Hours: Open daily, May-October
From $ 15
Bata Shoe Museum
The quirky Bata Shoe Museum in downtown Toronto showcases the changing style and function of footwear across four galleries. What started as a personal collection for Sonja Bata in the 1940s is now a museum with more than 20,000 shoes dating from ancient Egypt to modern day, including a selection of celebrity soles. It’s an unusual chance to view world history through the lens of footwear.
The Basics
The Bata Shoe Museum motto is “for every shoe there is a story,” and those stories are told through a semi-permanent exhibition and three changing galleries. Wander the unusual collection for a look at shoes made from human hair, bear fur shoes created for Japanese samurai, and 16-century Italian platform shoes. Prebook tickets for skip-the-line admission and a free audio guide. Enjoy hassle-free transportation with Toronto’s hop-on hop-off bus tour, which stops at the museum.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Save money and time by purchasing your tickets in advance.
- This museum is a must-see for those interested in footwear, history, or quirky collections.
- A guided audio tour is available via smartphone—bring a pair of headphones to enjoy the full experience.
- The museum is wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
The Bata Shoe Museum is located at the southwest corner of Bloor Street West and Saint George. From the Queen Elizabeth Way (QEW), take the Gardiner Expressway to Spadina Avenue. Head north to Bloor Street, turn right and go east to St. George Street. You can also take the subway to St. George Station on the Bloor-Danforth or the Yonge-University lines.
When to Get There
The museum is open daily, with the exception of Christmas Day and Good Friday. Plan to spend one to two hours exploring the galleries. Check the calendar of events for a list of current special exhibitions.
Famous Footwear
The Bata Shoe Museum boasts a handful of celebrity shoes in its collection, including Elton John’s silver platform boots, Elvis Presley’s blue patent loafers, John Lennon’s Beatle boots, Robert Redford’s cowboy boots, and Queen Victoria’s ballroom slippers. The museum also boasts an impressive collection of indigenous and archaeological footwear, providing insight into early civilizations.
Address: 327 Bloor St West, Toronto, ON, Canada
Admission: Varies
From $ 11
Athabasca Falls
Proving that it’s force and not size that matters, Athabasca Falls is a mere 75.5 foot (23 m) tall waterfall in Jasper National Park on the upper Athabasca River just west of the Icefields Parkway. The largest waterfall by volume in Jasper National Park, water cascades over the falls almost constantly, even on cold mornings when river levels are at their lowest.
Thundering through a narrow gorge, Athabasca Falls has both smoothed the rock walls it travels past and potholed them with the sand and rock it carries. It’s easy to admire Athabasca Falls from various viewing platforms and walking trails around the falls. Considered a Class 5 waterfall, Athabasca has a drop of 80 ft (24 m) and a width of 60 ft (18m).
Practical Info
Athabasca Falls is located approximately 18.6 miles (30 km) south of Jasper; park at the Athabasca Falls parking lot on Highway 93A. There are several lookouts and a paved trail that leads to other lookouts, but be sure to stay on the path and inside of the railing as the rocks can be extremely slippery—several people have fallen to their deaths.
Address: Highway 93A, Jasper National Park, Jasper, Alberta, Canada, Canada
Admission: Adults: $9.80; Children: $4.90
From $ 77
Fort Street
From historic architecture to contemporary museums, Victoria if filled with plenty for travelers to do, see and experience. But for visitors looking to comb through halls of rare antiques, explore finds at tiny auction houses and finger through Canadian oddities, there’s no place better than the famous Front Street.
This picturesque street is lined with quiet cafes, Asian restaurants, used bookstores and a well-known chocolate shop. A colorful mural of Emily Carr, located on the side of Island Blue Print and Art Supplies pays homage to the city’s most famous female. And Craigdarroch Castle and the Greater Victoria Art Gallery are both within walking distance from Fort Street.
Practical Info
Fort Street is accessible using public transportation. Both the local pus and the regional rail system have multiple stops along this popular destination.
Address: Fort Street, Victoria, BC, Canada, Canada
From $ 36
BC Place Stadium
For more than three decades, BC Place Stadium has been the premier venue for British Columbia’s athletics. Originally built for the 1986 World’s Fair, it played a major role in the Vancouver’s hosting of the 2010 Winter Olympics. In preparation for the event it was updated with a retractable roof that became the largest of its kind in the world. The large fabric rooftop is supported by cables, transforming the stadium for whichever weather conditions or event is present. Guests can remain covered during inclement weather, or be open to the sky (which is particularly beautiful on clear night.)
BC Place is home to the city’s two major sports teams, as well as the BC Sports Hall of Fame. The stadium is also host to the city’s largest community events. With over 1,000 digital screens and nearly 55,000 stadium seats, it’s one of the top sports arenas in Canada.
Practical Info
BC Place is located near False Creek in southeastern Vancouver, on Pacific Boulevard. The BC Sports Hall of Fame is located at Gate A and is open from 10 am to 5 pm. To get there via public transportation, buses 15 and 17 and False Creek Ferries drop off closest to the stadium and the Skytrain stop is Stadium/Chinatown. Parking is available nearby at varying costs.
Address: 777 Pacific Blvd, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, Canada
Hours: Open daily 10am-5pm
Admission: Free with event; $15 for Hall of Fame
From $ 37
Fort Calgary Historic Park
Visit the spot where Calgary was born at Fort Calgary, and explore the city’s formative years from 1875 to 1914. A wooden fort was built here by the North West Mounted Police in 1875, and today, the legacy of those times is re-created with interactive exhibits, replica barracks, guided tours and an interpretive center.
Dine in the former home of a Canadian Mountie, try on an authentic Mountie uniform and explore the fort’s extensive riverside grounds surrounding the meeting point of the Elbow and Bow rivers.
Practical Info
Fort Calgary takes up 40 acres (16 hectares) on the eastern stretch of central Calgary. It's about a 15-minute walk from downtown.
Address: 750 9th Avenue, Calgary AB T2G 5E1, Canada
Hours: Daily 9am–5pm. Closed Easter, Christmas and New Year
Admission: CA$5–CA$11
From $ 65
Butchart Gardens
Butchart Gardens, established in 1904, treat visitors to an enchanting floral show that changes with the seasons. Covering 55 acres (22 hectares) on Vancouver Island in British Columbia, the botanical space is intricately laid out into separate themed gardens with landscaping that impresses and inspires gardeners and nature lovers alike.
The Basics
Butchart Gardens are a popular spot to visit from Victoria, Vancouver, and even Seattle, either on a gardens tour or combined with a whale-watching cruise, sightseeing tour, or seaplane flight and three-course dinner in the park. As you make your way through the different garden areas—from rose-covered paths to the dramatic Sunken Garden—you can admire blooming bulbs in springtime, head out on the dahlia walk during summer, admire floral displays in gorgeous fall colors, or take in the Japanese-inspired garden in the winter months.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Wear clothing suitable for the outdoors: dress for the weather, and bring an umbrella or hooded jacket in the rainy months.
- Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in the gardens or eat at one of the several onsite restaurants.
- The gardens are wheelchair and stroller accessible.
- You may visit the gardens independently or with a tour guide.
- Though cameras are encouraged, the use of selfie sticks is prohibited.
- WiFi is available at the coffee shop near the visitor center.
How to Get There
Butchart Gardens are 14 miles (23 kilometers) north of Victoria’s Inner Harbour on Vancouver Island, about 30 minutes away by road. Buses run to the gardens from downtown Victoria and the Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal. You can also take a shuttle bus, taxi, or limo from the Fairmont Empress in Victoria to Butchart Gardens.
When to Get There
Butchart Gardens are open every day of the year. During peak season (July through August), the gardens can get quite crowded between 11am and 3pm. Arrive right at 9am when they open, and you’ll be rewarded with thin crowds and beautiful lighting for your photographs. On summer evenings, the gardens are filled with thousands of illuminations, with fireworks displays taking place every Saturday night in July and August (included in your Butchart Gardens admission). In December, the garden’s Waterwheel Square is converted into an outdoor ice-skating rink, complete with Christmas decorations and lights.
Butchart’s Themed Gardens
You can easily spend a full day exploring Butchart’s six themed gardens: the Sunken Garden, the Rose Garden, the Japanese Garden, the Italian Garden, the Concert Lawn Walk, and the Mediterranean Garden. The original Sunken Garden is a must-see, with its deep walls (remnants of the old quarry) cradling beds of annuals, flowering trees, and unique shrubs. Kids will love the hand-carved wooden carousel along the Concert Lawn Walk, just before the rose-laden arches greet visitors on their way into the Rose Garden—be sure to drop a penny in the Wishing Well here. The serene Japanese Garden invites contemplation as you wander along the paths past streams, ponds, and bridges, while the Italian Garden features sculptures and the Frog Fountain, and the small Mediterranean Garden has drought-tolerant plants from areas of the world with climates similar to Victoria’s.
Address: 800 Benvenuto Avenue, Brentwood Bay BC V8M 1J8, Canada
Hours: Varies seasonally
Admission: Varies seasonally
From $ 16
Crescent Street (Rue Crescent)
Crescent Street, situated in the heart of Montreal’s bustling downtown, is the epicenter of the city's nightlife and home of the Grand Prix Festival, a celebration of the annual Formula One race. Lined with row houses, galleries, restaurants, and highly rated nightclubs, the street is a popular destination for visitors and locals alike.
The Basics
Located just steps from the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, Crescent Street is a stop on most hop-on hop-off bus tours, a convenient way to explore without the hassle of navigating. Independent bike rentals offer a more active way to sightsee, while private tours offer the flexibility for visitors to tack a Crescent Street stroll or pub crawl onto a customized itinerary.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Crescent Street bar scene is a must for spontaneous travelers.
- Don’t forget comfortable shoes, as the best way to explore the neighborhood is on foot.
- Street signs, including parking and traffic signs, are written in French.
How to Get There
Crescent Street is easily accessible using Montreal’s comprehensive public transit system. The nearest stops are Sherbrooke and Rue de la Montagne on bus 24, René-Lévesque and de la Montagne on bus 150, and Lucien-L’Allier metro station on the orange 2 line. Alternatively, a BIXI bike share docks is conveniently located on the south end of Crescent Street.
When to Get There
As a hub for Montreal nightlife, Crescent Street is busiest during the evenings and on weekends. Go during the day for a quieter stroll. The street is best known for its annual Grand Prix Festival in June, a Formula One championship celebration known for its race car displays, autograph sessions, and live entertainment.
Crescent Street’s First Pub
While Crescent Street was established in the 1860s, its reputation for nightlife only began in 1967 when the Sir Winston Churchill Pub Complex opened. Today, the Winston Churchill boasts three levels, each with a distinct atmosphere—from a candlelight club lounge to an airy outdoor terrace. With plenty of food and drink options, the pub is often filled with visitors and locals from across the city.
Address: Crescent Street, Montreal, Canada
From $ 26
Cypress Mountain
Attracting skiers and hikers alike, Cypress Mountain is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. The title Cypress Mountain is something of a misnomer; there is no peak by this name. It instead refers to a trio of skiable mountains (Black Mountain, Mt. Strachan, and Hollyburn Mountain) that hosted events at the 2010 Winter Olympics.
The Basics
Because of its proximity to downtown Vancouver, Cypress Mountain is often visited on sightseeing tours. During the summer season, many sightseeing tours of Vancouver or the scenic Vancouver area stop at Barrett’s View lookout, which offers far-reaching vistas. The park is most heavily used in winter, when its downhill runs, snowshoe and cross-country ski trails, and snow-tubing course attract locals and visitors.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Cypress Mountain is a must for outdoorsy and active travelers.
- Snowshoes, skis, snowboards, and cross-country skis can all be rented on the mountain. Poles, boots, helmets, jackets, and pants are also available for rent, but be sure to bring your own goggles and gloves.
- Familiarize yourself with bear safety and mountain safety before embarking on a summer hike.
- Cypress Mountain’s Yew Lake trail is wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
Cypress Mountain is in Cypress Provincial Park on Vancouver’s North Shore, about a 45-minute drive from downtown Vancouver. Car-free travelers or those who don’t want to tackle mountain roads in winter can take seasonal winter shuttle buses from Vancouver to the ski resort area.
When to Get There
In summer, come during the day to fully appreciate the views from the various lookouts. In winter, the resort remains open as late as 10pm, meaning visitors can ski down floodlit runs. The winter season typically lasts from mid-November to mid-April, while hiking is best between June and October.
Hiking on Cypress Mountain
Hikers heading to Cypress Mountain can choose among several trail options. The flat and accessible 1.5-mile (2.4-kilometer) Yew Lake trail leads through meadows to Yew Lake, whose waters are framed by mountain peaks. A more challenging option is the 5-mile (8.2-kilometer) Eagle Bluff trail, which leads to viewpoints overlooking Howe Sound and Vancouver.
Address: 6000 Cypress Bowl Rd, West Vancouver, British Columbia V0N 1G0, Canada
Admission: Varies
From $ 297
Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse National Historic Sites
Perched on a rocky promontory off the southeast coast of Vancouver Island, the red and white tower of the Fisgard Lighthouse is immediately noticeable from the water and makes a popular photo opportunity for visitors cruising the coast from nearby Victoria. The Lighthouse is more than just a navigational landmark, though – Fisgard has been guiding ships into Victoria harbor since 1860, making it Canada's oldest West Coast lighthouse and now an important national historic site.
Looming behind the lighthouse, Fort Rodd Hill is another significant site, dotted with the remains of the 19th and 20th century coastal defenses that once protected Victoria and the neighboring Esquimalt Naval Base. Visitors can explore three artillery batteries, plus the command posts, guardhouses, underground magazines and barracks, where multi-media displays and interactive exhibitions bring the historic site to life.
Practical Info
The Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse National Historic Sites are located along the southeastern coast of Vancouver Island, just west of Victoria. The sites are open daily from 10am-5.30pm (9am-4.30pm in winter) and adult admission is C$4 at the time of writing.
Address: 603 Fort Rodd Hill Rd, Victoria BC, Canada
Hours: Open daily from 10am-5.30pm (9am-4.30pm in winter)
Admission: Adults: C$4
From $ 92
Cabot Trail
Cabot Trail comprises 185 miles (298 kilometers) of cliff-edge roadway weaving around the northern half of Nova Scotia’s Cape Breton Island. It offers epic views of the whale-inhabited waters of the Atlantic and Gulf of St. Lawrence, and access to quaint towns and Cape Breton Highlands National Park.
The Basics
In theory, Cabot Trail can be completed in five hours. In reality, however, most visitors spend several days here, stopping for hikes, whale-watching tours, or to simply soak up the scenery along the route.
Drive yourself around the route or join a tour so you can focus on the views out the window. Multi-day tours typically incorporate the Cabot Trail into a longer itinerary that also includes other parts of Nova Scotia, such as Halifax and Baddeck, and—in some cases—Prince Edward Island. Many multi-day tours incorporate whale-watching boat trips and stops at scenic coastal villages.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Cabot Trail is a must for scenery seekers and nature lovers.
- Travel clockwise to stay on the inside lane, which is further away from scary roadside drop-offs.
- For those comfortable and confident at the wheel, go counterclockwise and take the trail’s outside lane, where there is typically less traffic.
- There are no roads cutting across the center of north Cape Breton Island, so once you start the trail, you either have to finish it or turn back the way you came.
- Watch out for moose on the road; if you encounter one, be prepared to stop and wait for it to move on.
How to Get There
Enter the trail via Route 19 (Ceilidh Trail), or via Exit 7, if you’re going clockwise, or Exit 11 of the Trans-Canada Highway 105, if you’re going counterclockwise. It’s also possible to take the Englishtown Ferry across St. Ann’s Bay and enter the trail via Route 312.
When to Get There
Sightseeing tours and whale-watching tours run between June and October, and it’s the best time to go. It’s also when the weather is mildest. If you plan on doing the trail in one day, set off early so you have ample time to explore.
Cabot Trail Wildlife-Watching
As you make your way along Cabot Trail, be on the lookout for some of the most impressive species known to frequent Cape Breton. Moose commonly wander onto the road, bald eagles can sometimes be spotted in the skies overhead, and all kinds of whales—from pilot to minkes to humpbacks—can be seen journeying near the coast from June to mid-October.
Address: Cabot Trail, Nova Scotia, Canada
From $ 798
Bay of Fundy
Situated on Canada’s east coast, the Bay of Fundy is known for its extreme tides. Twice a day the tide advances and retreats by as much as 52 feet (16 meters), leaving land previously covered by sea exposed and vice versa. The scenic lighthouse-dotted coastline, whale-inhabited waters, and quaint fishing villages add to the bay’s appeal.
The Basics
You can witness the Bay of Fundy’s extreme tides along Nova Scotia’s Fundy Shore at places such as the UNESCO World Heritage–listed Joggins Cliffs, where the erosion of coastal cliffs has revealed 300-million-year-old fossils. Saint John and Moncton, both in New Brunswick, also make good home bases, with nearby tide-viewing sights such as Reversing Falls and the Hopewell Rocks.
Many whale-watching tours take place on the bay, as do rafting excursions on tidal bore rapids—where inflowing rivers meet the outflowing tides, creating waves. Food tours of Nova Scotia and New Brunswick allow visitors to taste fresh Bay of Fundy seafood.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Bay of Fundy is a must for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
- Check tide times before you go; note that times vary for different locations along the bay.
- The intertidal zone (the area that is above water at low tide and under water at high tide) is often muddy, so wear appropriate footwear.
How to Get There
The Bay of Fundy is situated between Nova Scotia and New Brunswick. The nearest international airports are in Saint John, Moncton, Fredericton, and Halifax. Ferries run across the bay, connecting Saint John, New Brunswick with Digby, Nova Scotia.
When to Get There
The best time to visit he Bay of Fundy is from June through October, when boat tours run most frequently. To fully appreciate the extreme nature of the tides, try and visit the same location at peak high tide and again about six hours later, at peak low tide.
Where to See the Ocean Floor
At low tide, the exposed ocean floor is accessible at several locations along the coast, including Joggins, Parrsboro, and Grand-Pré in Nova Scotia and St. Andrews, Alma, Hopewell Rocks, and Dorchester Cape in New Brunswick. If you want to walk on the uncovered ocean floor, plan to arrive about an hour before low tide. That way, you’ll have time to explore before the tide begins to creep back in.
Address: New Brunswick, Canada
From $ 100
Fraser River
The longest river in British Columbia and the 10th longest river in Canada, the Fraser River rises at Fraser Pass near Mount Robson in the Rocky Mountains and flows for 854 miles (1,375 km) into the Strait of Georgia at the city of Vancouver. Known for white sturgeon and the most productive salmon fishery in the world, Fraser River has supported agricultural and community life for hundreds of years.
More recently, Fraser River has become a host to a wide variety of recreational activities as well. Fishing, boating, whitewater rafting and other activities are common throughout the course of the river. In the basin as a whole, visitors can enjoy other backcountry activities such as hiking, camping, backpacking, cycling, birdwatching, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling. As a scenic attraction, the Fraser River commands attention along many public byways including the Trans Canada and Yellowhead highways.
Practical Info
Fraser River is accessible by some of British Columbia’s major highways, as they run parallel to the river. There are many parks and trails that provide recreational access to the river throughout its length. Spring is the best time for activities such as whitewater rafting due to the glacial melt that raises the river’s level, but there are many recreational activities available throughout the year.
Address: Fraser River, Jasper, Alberta, Canada, Canada
From $ 90
Government Street
Running through the heart of Downtown Victoria, Government Street is home to plenty of shopping and local history. Along the Victoria Harbour front, the British Columbia Legislature Buildings and the Fairmont Empress are important historical landmarks, both designed by the untrained British architect Francis Rattenbury. His design for the BC Legislature Buildings, which uses white marble, a massive central dome, and lengthy façade to create an architecturally impressive home for the provincial government, was his first project. This early success led him to be awarded the contract to design the Empress Hotel, which is now one of the oldest hotels in Victoria. Between these two buildings lies the Royal British Columbia Museum, which houses a natural and human history museum and the British Columbia provincial archives.
Heading north from the Empress Hotel, Government Street soon becomes an iconic shopping street. Native artwork, high fashion, and a variety of specialty stores holding everything from handcrafted jewelry to handmade chocolate take up the storefronts. More shopping is found just off Government Street, too, including Trounce Alley, known for its European fashion stores; Bastion Square, where local artisans sell handmade arts and crafts; and Johnson Street, which is a local’s favorite for exclusive design boutiques.
The corner of Government Street and Fisgard runs beneath the Gate of Harmonious Interest and the entrance to Victoria’s Chinatown. Founded in 1858, it’s the oldest Chinatown in Canada and second only to San Francisco in North America.
Practical Info
Government Street runs through Downtown Victoria, between Douglas Street and Dallas Road.
Address: Government Street, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
From $ 48
Fort York
Fort York was constructed in 1793 by the British Army and Canadian militia troops for the defense of York (now Toronto). Today it’s a National Historic Site with Canada’s largest group of original War of 1812 structures. Explore the stone and wood barracks used during the 1813 Battle of York, when the U.S. invaded and destroyed the fort.
The Basics
A 7-acre (3-hectare) walled military fort built by the British Army and Canadian militia troops in the late 1800s, Fort York gives visitors a glimpse into Canadian history. Explore the barracks and battlefield, take a guided tour (on the hour), hear the twice-daily cannon firing, and observe a drill and the flag raising and lowering.
Things to Know Before You Go
- There is an admission fee, with discounts for seniors and children; kids 5 and under enter free.
- Plan to spend about two hours visiting the fort.
- Most of the walking throughout the fort is on an even terrain, but some of the structures involve stairs.
- All walkways are accessible by wheelchairs, but the Stone Magazine and Brick Magazine are not wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
Fort York is located about 1.25 miles (2 kilometers) west of the CN Tower between the Gardiner Expressway and the train lines. It’s a 20- to 30-minute walk from most parts of downtown Toronto. You can take the Bloor Street Subway to the Bathurst Station or the 509 streetcar westbound, exiting at Fleet Street and Fort York Boulevard. Parking is available at the corner of Fleet Street and Strachan Avenue.
When to Get There
Fort York is open daily year-round. From September to June, the fort is busy with school groups. In July and August, visitors are treated to a variety of events designed to bring history to life, including guided tours, special museum exhibits, Fort York Guard demonstrations, and cooking demonstrations and tastings.
War of 1812
During the War of 1812, American troops invaded Canada, then a British colony, and attacked Fort York the Battle of York in 1813. British troops retreated and the Americans occupied the fort for six days, looting and destroying the Government House and Parliament Buildings. Angered, British troops stormed Washington and burned the White House and other buildings the following year.
Address: 250 Fort York Boulevard, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
From $ 129