Choose from 290 Fun Things to Do in Canada
ShowingFilter 121-140 of 290 listings.
Rideau Canal
Built between 1826 and 1832 to offer secure passage for British ships from Montreal, the Rideau Canal—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—is an engineering masterpiece. It extends for 126 miles (202 kilometers) between Ottawa and Kingston. Ottawa’s most visited stretch lures boaters, cyclists, and strollers in summer, and ice skaters in winter.
The Basics
Ottawa visitors will almost certainly encounter the Rideau Canal at some point during their trip, as the waterway cuts right through the heart of Canada’s capital city and is visible from Parliament Hill. Bike tours of the city often follow the Rideau Canal Pathways, which extend along both sides of the canal, and many walking tours include a visit to the canal’s edge. You can also embark on Rideau Canal sightseeing cruises, or join a kayak or canoe excursion. In winter, rent skates and glide around the vast, well-maintained Rideau Canal Skateway, formed by a cordoned-off part of the canal.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Bike and boat tours on the canal run from May through October.
- If you’re going in winter, bundle up, as temperatures frequently drop below freezing.
- Fishing is allowed on some parts of the waterway, including Dow’s Lake. An Ontario fishing permit and outdoors card are required.
How to Get There
If you’re staying in downtown Ottawa, the best way to reach the canal is on foot. From Ottawa’s main train station, ride the 61 bus. Alternatively, a taxi from the station will take 15 to 20 minutes.
When to Get There
Ottawa’s peak visiting periods are January, February, and June to August. Even during its busiest times, the canal rarely feels crowded. If you want to see it at its most peaceful, go early in the morning.
Rideau Canal Skateway
Every winter, a 4.8-mile (7.8-kilometer) stretch of the frozen Rideau Canal transforms into an open-air ice-skating rink. Designated the world’s largest naturally frozen skate rink by the Guinness World Records, the hugely popular Rideau Canal Skateway attracts an average of 20,000 visitors per day. The skating season’s length and dates vary according to weather conditions, but typically the rink is open from January to the end of February or early March. You can rent skates from canal-side huts, some of which also sell hot chocolate, hot apple cider, and BeaverTails, a fried-dough pastry topped with cinnamon and sugar.
Address: Rideau Canal, Ottawa K1N 8S7, Canada
Admission: Free
From $ 18
Niagara Falls, Ontario
Grand and powerful Niagara Falls is actually composed of three sets of falls: American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and Horseshoe Falls (also known as Canadian Falls). Combined these cascades have the highest flow rate of any waterfall in the world—more than a million bathtubs of water plummet over the edge every second. The falls straddle the border of Canada and the United States, and while they’re wildly impressive from both sides, here’s how to have a Niagara adventure from the Canadian side.
The Basics
You can’t get closer to, or have better views of, Niagara Falls than you can on a boat ride. Daytime, evening, nighttime, and fireworks cruises all enable you to hear and feel the power of the falls up close. Hornblower Niagara is the most popular cruise option on the Canadian side. A Maid of the Mist tour, one of the area’s oldest attractions, runs from the US side only, but some guided tours from the Canadian side offer cross-border transportation to the boat’s departure point. Another way to experience the falls is through the Journey Behind the Falls, where you walk through 130-year-old tunnels onto an observation deck behind Horseshoe Falls. You can also see the falls from the Skylon Tower, a 520-foot (160-meter) observation tower featuring sweeping vistas of Niagara Falls plus an arcade and a revolving restaurant. For even loftier views, some sightseeing tours include the unforgettable experience of flying over the falls in a small plane or helicopter.
Things to Know Before You Go
- If you visit the falls on a boat tour, prepare to get wet from the mist—which, of course, is part of the thrill of the ride!
- If your Canada-based tour includes a Maid of the Mist ride, which departs from the US, be sure you have appropriate documentation to enter both countries. Opting for a small-group or a private tour can make the experience feel more personal; though a large-group bus tour is a more economical way to visit.
- Every night after dark, the falls are illuminated by a spectacular light show. A Niagara Falls night cruise is a great way to see it.
How to Get There
You can reach Niagara Falls from Toronto by bus, train, or car. Once you’re there, you can get around the town of Niagara Falls by shuttle bus. Drivers can find plentiful parking in the area’s lots.
When to Get There
Summer is prime time for Niagara Falls visits, as it’s the best season for boat tours, which generally run from April through November. There’s also a Niagara Falls fireworks show several times weekly during the summer months. In winter there’s still plenty to see and do at the falls, including snowshoeing and ice climbing.
Things to Do Nearby
If you have extra time during your visit to Niagara Falls, Eastern Ontario is a burgeoning wine region well worth exploring on a wine tour during the balmier months. Food tours are also popular ways to sample the region’s fresh and distinctive offerings. Other activities outside of a Niagara Falls tour include Clifton Hill (a massive entertainment promenade), Bird Kingdom, Marineland, and the Aquarium of Niagara (in New York).
Address: Niagara Falls, Canada
Hours: Open daily
Admission: Free
From $ 10
New City Hall
New City Hall, which replaced Old City Hall in 1965 to accommodate a rapidly growing city, is the current seat of Toronto’s municipal government. Designed by Finnish architect Viljo Revell, winner of the city’s international competition, City Hall is comprised of two curved towers as well as Nathan Phillips Square, Canada’s largest public square.
The Basics
Located in the heart of Downtown Toronto on Queen Street West, New City Hall is a stop on most private tours, which typically include nearby attractions such as Kensington Market, the University of Toronto, and the Bell Lightbox Theater. Private tours eliminate the stress of navigating and offer the flexibility to customize the itinerary. The City of Toronto’s website also offers a self-guided tour, which provides little-known facts about City Hall’s highlights, from a mosaic made of nails in the main entrance to a hidden time capsule.
Helicopter tours provide rare birds’-eye views of Toronto landmarks, including Lake Ontario, the CN Tower, and New City Hall. From above, New City Hall has been said to resemble a giant unblinking eye, giving it its nickname “The Eye of Government.”
Things to Know Before You Go
- New City Hall is a must for history and architecture buffs.
- The two entrances for the underground parking lot are on Bay Street and Queen streets.
- New City Hall is wheelchair accessible.
- Bathrooms are located in the East Hall basement.
How to Get There
New City Hall’s central downtown location makes it easily accessible using Toronto’s public transit system. The nearest transit stops are Queen metro station, Queen Street and Bay Street on streetcar 501, and Dundas Street and Chestnut Street on bus 505. In addition to bike racks on both the east and west sides of City Hall, a dock for Toronto’s bike share program is located on Bay Street.
When to Get There
Nathan Phillips Square, located in front of City Hall, is a public space used for a range of events, including farmers’ markets, movie screenings, and winter ice skating. A full calendar is available on the City of Toronto’s website. In addition, City Hall’s 27th-floor observation deck is open once a year during Doors Open Toronto. City Hall is open to the public from 8:30am to 4:30pm, Monday to Friday.
Rooftop Views
City Hall’s podium green roof is the largest publicly accessible green roof in Canada, and one of Toronto’s hidden gems. Opened to the public in 2009, the roof offers a quiet respite from the bustle of city life, with benches, walkways, and terraces that offer rare views of downtown. In addition to providing a quiet public space, the roof saves the city money and energy by insulating City Hall and improving the surrounding air quality.
Address: 100 Queen Street West, Toronto, Ontario M5H 2N2, Canada
From $ 65
Queen's Quay Terminal
Queen’s Quay Terminal is a residential, entertainment, and shopping center on the harborfront of Toronto, Ontario. Built as a warehouse facility in the 1920s, the terminal was revitalized in the 1980s as a multipurpose complex featuring upscale shops and restaurants. The lakeside setting offers views of the Toronto Islands.
The Basics
Toronto harbor boat tours and cruises typically pass by Queen’s Quay Terminal, offering views of its Art Deco exterior. Guides onboard provide facts and anecdotes about terminal’s history.
Walking tours of Downtown Toronto and the Harbourfront often include a stop at Queen’s Quay Terminal, with other stops typically ranging from the CN Tower to the Distillery District. Other visitors opt for private tours, which allow the flexibility to add Queen’s Quay to your customized itinerary.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Queen’s Quay Terminal is a must for history buffs and shoppers.
- A variety of food options are available, from takeaway pizza to sit-down dim sum.
- The terminal is wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
Located on the Toronto Harbourfront, Queen’s Quay Terminal is easily accessible using public transit. Streetcars 510 and 509 stop directly in front of the terminal; or, take a 7-minute walk from Union Station on the metro’s 1 line. Toronto Island ferries dock at Jack Layton Ferry Terminal, which is a 5-minute walk from Queen’s Quay Terminal.
When to Get There
Queen’s Quay Terminal is open year-round, but it’s busiest from May to September. Crowds swell when there’s something going on at the adjacent Harbourfront Centre, which hosts events throughout the summer, from a vegetarian food market to an African arts festival.
Waterfront Trail
Lake Ontario’s Waterfront Trail is a series of interconnected paths used for walking, running, and biking that extend from Niagara-on-the-Lake to Brockville. The trail passes directly in front of Queen’s Quay Terminal, where you can board ferries to the Toronto Islands. After your Queen’s Quay Terminal visit, take advantage of the Bike Share Toronto dock, across the street, and explore the trail, which offers panoramic waterfront views.
Address: 207 Queens Quay West, Toronto, Ontario M5J 1A7, Canada
From $ 55
Kensington Market
Eclectic, diverse, and graffiti-slathered, the Kensington Market neighborhood is one of Toronto’s most distinctive enclaves. The district is packed with produce vendors, food sellers, vintage clothes shops, bric-a-brac boutiques, buskers, cafés, and restaurants, and attracts a steady stream of bohemian types.
The Basics
Kensington Market is Toronto at its vibrant, multicultural best. While the neighborhood can be explored independently, going with a tour guide can be helpful. Not only can they point out the best spots for cheap eats, but they can also elaborate on the history and evolution of one of the most fascinating parts of Canada’s largest city. Toronto food tours, which also often cover spots in neighboring Chinatown and Little Italy, frequently visit the market.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Kensington Market is a must for foodies, bargain-hunters, and people-watchers.
- Bring cash. While many vendors accept credit cards, not all do, and there is often an extra charge for purchases under a certain amount.
- Try your hand at haggling. Not all vendors’ prices are fixed.
How to Get There
With limited parking and heavy traffic, driving is not advised. The best way to get here is by public transit. Take the Spadina or Bathurst streetcar to College Street, or the College or Dundas streetcar to Spadina Avenue. Both will put you just a short stroll from the market.
When to Get There
In the summer, on the last Sunday of the month, Kensington Market goes car-free, and pedestrians rule the roads, making it a particularly nice time to wander around on foot. The market is pretty much always busy, but never more so than on weekends. If you want a little extra elbow room while you browse, go midweek. Expect a reduced level of street activity in winter.
Navigating Kensington Market
For vintage shopping, browse the secondhand stores occupying the brightly painted Victorian buildings along Kensington Avenue, between Dundas Street West and Baldwin Street. Augusta Avenue, between Dundas and College streets, is the market’s bustling main strip. Turn off here onto side streets, such as Nassau Street, to find some hideaway cafés in which to rest and recoup.
Address: Bordered by Spadina Avenue, Dundas Street, Augusta Avenue, and College Street, Toronto, Canada
Admission: Free
From $ 28
Kitsilano Beach
Known locally as Kits Beach, this broad stretch of sand is a popular summer hangout and brims with joggers, tanners, and families. Views of downtown Vancouver skyscrapers, the Burrard Inlet, and the North Shore Mountains are a big draw, as is Kitsilano Pool, a huge heated outdoor saltwater pool that spans 451 feet (137 meters) in length.
The Basics
Kitsilano is one of Vancouver’s most beloved beaches and is a must-see for anyone looking to experience the city’s urban beach culture. It is often visited as part of city highlights tours, as well as on kayaking tours and cruises around the Burrard Inlet and False Creek.
Visitors will find a wide range of things to do at the beach. Play tennis, volleyball, or basketball on outdoor courts; bring the kids to the playground; or go swimming in the saltwater pool, which has a dedicated children’s area for younger swimmers.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Kitsilano Beach is a must for families and sun worshippers.
- Lifeguards are on duty from late May to early September.
- Public restrooms can be found at the beach.
- Mobi-Mats provide access to the beach for wheelchair users. Water wheelchairs can be reserved in advance.
How to Get There
Kitsilano Beach is situated in the Kitsilano neighborhood, about a 10-minute drive southwest of downtown Vancouver. Take the ferry from Granville Island to Vanier Park, and stroll for 5–10 minutes along the waterfront path. Alternatively, ride bus 2, 4, or 7 from downtown Vancouver.
When to Get There
As expected, Kitsilano Beach is busiest in summer. It’s a picturesque place to watch the sunset, though if you want to experience it at its most tranquil, come for an early morning winter walk.
Vancouver’s Best Beaches
Kitsilano Beach is one of several stretches of sand situated within the city limits of Vancouver. Beach lovers can also visit Second Beach in Stanley Park, which also has an outdoor pool, or English Bay Beach, another summer hot spot where crowds gather to play volleyball, throw a Frisbee, and socialize. For a more off-the-beaten-track option, try clothing-optional Wreck Beach, near the University of British Columbia campus.
Address: 1499 Arbutus St (at Cornwall Ave), Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
From $ 37
Niagara SkyWheel
Opened in 2006, this towering Ferris wheel carries passengers up to a height of 175 feet (53 meters), far above the hubbub and neon lights of bustling Clifton Hill. From the enclosed, climate-controlled gondolas, passengers can see for miles in every direction and admire the grandeur of Horseshoe and American falls.
The Basics
One of the largest observation wheels in Canada, the Niagara SkyWheel is perfectly placed for those who want to see the magnificent Niagara Falls from a whole new angle. Visitors can prepurchase an admission ticket for the SkyWheel and take the ride at a time of their choosing.
Alternatively, opt for a sightseeing pass that includes not only a ride on the SkyWheel but also access to five other Clifton Hill attractions, including a miniature golf course, Movieland Wax Museum of the Stars, and other rides and interactive experiences. Travelers who take part in organized Niagara Falls day trips from Toronto or Brampton may opt to ride the SkyWheel during free time on the tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Bring your camera to take photos of Niagara Falls.
- Each gondola can accommodate six to eight people.
- The ride lasts for about 10 minutes.
- The SkyWheel gondolas are equipped with heating and air conditioning.
- Two gondolas in the Niagara SkyWheel are accessible to wheelchair users via a portable ramp.
How to Get There
The Niagara SkyWheel is located at the southern section of Clifton Hill, on the Ontario side of the falls. To get there, ride the WEGO red, blue, or green line buses to the Clifton Hill/Hornblower Niagara Cruises stop. Drivers can park at the Clifton Hill Niagara Falls parking lot.
When to Get There
The Niagara SkyWheel runs year-round. Wait until nightfall to see the falls illuminated. During summer, visitors can also see the Niagara Falls Fireworks from the gondolas. The fireworks start at 10pm, but lines are common at this time, so it’s worth arriving at the SkyWheel early.
Niagara Falls Viewpoints
The Niagara SkyWheel is just one of several attractions in town that offer bird’s-eye views of the falls. Visitors can also venture up to the 775-foot (236-meter) observation deck of the Skylon Tower in Niagara Falls, Ontario. From here, vistas extend across the mighty falls, the Great Gorge, and the Niagara wine region. It’s also possible to take helicopter and flightseeing tours over the falls to view one of the world’s most impressive natural wonders.
Address: 4946 Clifton Hill, Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada
Admission: Varies
From $ 10
Ravine Vineyard Estate Winery
The unique and organic 34-acre family-owned winery is over 100 years old and is located in the warmest sub-area of the Niagara region. It has been passed down from one generation to the next since David Jackson Lowrey, the current owner’s great grandfather, purchased the property in 1867. The Ravine vintages mostly consist of Chardonnay-based wines, as it is the top growing grape in the region. They also produce award-winning ice wines.
The estate is also home to the 200-year-old Loyalist Georgian Wm. Woodruff House, one of the most architecturally significant ancestral homes of Canada. There is also an organic restaurant with seasonal menus sourced at the on-site farm, where the Lowrey family grows their own produce and raises their own livestock.
Practical Info
Ravine Vineyard Estate Winery is located in St. Davids in Ontario, Canada. It is located 10 kilometers from Niagara Falls and can be reached in just 15 minutes via Queen Elizabeth Way and York Road. It is open daily from 10am to 6pm, aside from December 25-26 and January 1. Tours are offered daily at both 12pm and 4pm. There is a special 60-minute Chardonnay Tour offered at 3pm on Saturdays and Sundays for $10 per person including tastings.
Address: St. Davids, Ontario L0S 1P0, Canada
Hours: Wine store: Open daily from 10am to 6pm, aside from December 25-26 and January 1. Winery tours and tastings: Tours are offered daily at both 12pm and 4pm
Admission: Tours cost $10 per person including tastings.
From $ 127
Niagara Parks Butterfly Conservatory
More than 2,000 butterflies representing about 45 different species flutter freely around this climate-controlled conservatory, occasionally landing on passersby. The glass-enclosed greenhouse, which is planted with lush vegetation and crisscrossed by paths, is part of Niagara Falls Botanical Gardens.
The Basics
Niagara Parks Butterfly Conservatory is often visited as part of day tours to the Niagara region. It is commonly combined with other Niagara Falls attractions, such as Hornblower or Maid of the Mist cruises, Niagara's Fury (a 4-D show telling the story of the falls), an airplane tour over the falls, or even a visit to a Niagara winery.
Visits to the conservatory begin with a video presentation. After this, visitors embark on a self-guided tour of the conservatory, during which you can observe the butterflies perch on flowers, eat at fruit-filled feeding stations, and depending on your timing, see butterflies emerging from their chrysalises.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Niagara Parks Butterfly Conservatory is a must for nature-lovers and families.
- It is the perfect alternative attraction for visitors who have already seen the falls.
- The Niagara Parks Butterfly Conservatory is wheelchair-friendly.
- Wear layers. The conservatory is heated so you’ll want to take off warmer, outer garments.
How to Get There
The Niagara Parks Butterfly Conservatory is located within the Botanical Gardens on the Ontario side of the falls, less than 4 miles (6 kilometers) from the Whirlpool Aero Car. The WEGO green bus line travels along Niagara Parkway and stops at the conservatory.
When to Get There
The Butterfly Conservatory is open year-round. It is perhaps best in colder months, when the toasty tropical interior temperature makes a welcome contrast to Canada’s freezing winter weather.
Exploring Niagara Falls
After the Niagara Parks Butterfly Conservatory, you may want to stroll around the 99-acre (40-hectare) Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens to get some fresh air. Here, you’ll find landscaped gardens planted with herbs, vegetables, plants, flowers, and a rose garden with more than 2,400 blooms. Also nearby is the Stanley Thompson-designed Whirlpool Golf Course. South of that sits the Whirlpool Aero Car, a vintage gondola that travels out over the swirling rapids of the Niagara River.
Address: 2565 Niagara Parkway, Niagara Falls, Canada
Hours: Open daily
From $ 260
Reversing Falls
Saint John’s Reversing Falls are a natural phenomenon caused by the tides of Canada’s Bay of Fundy, which can differ in height by an astonishing 50 feet (15 meters) at certain times of the year. The huge incoming tides force back the flow of Saint John River, creating white-water-tinged whirlpools, waves, and rapids, before reversing in the opposite direction.
The Basics
The Reversing Falls, aka Reversing Rapids, can be seen from the riverside Fallsview Park. Visitors can also view the falls from a zipline suspended below the busy Reversing Falls Bridge. Reversing Falls Rapids Tourist Centre screens a 13-minute film explaining the phenomenon; it also has a rooftop viewing platform and Skywalk, with transparent viewing panels underfoot.
Guided shore excursions and organized tours around New Brunswick commonly stop at Reversing Falls, as well as at other local points of interest, such as the historic fishing village of St. Martins, the fertile Kingston Peninsula, and New Brunswick wineries, and other attractions in Saint John, like Saint John’s Old City Market. Multiday tours of The Maritimes sometimes stop at Reversing Falls, too.
Things to Know Before You Go
- It’s best to see the falls during at least two of the three tidal stages (low, slack, and high) so you can appreciate the changes. The visitor center displays tidal times.
- The Skywalk Saint John is wheelchair accessible.
- An on-site restaurant allows you can eat with views over the falls and while away the hours between the tides.
How to Get There
The best way to get to Reversing Falls, located on Bridge Road in Saint John, is by car or organized tour. If you’re driving from Saint John, head west along Chelsea Drive. The journey takes less than 10 minutes, and you’ll find the visitor center on the far side of Reversing Falls Bridge.
When to Get There
The best time to visit is dependent on the tides. In between tidal extremes, Reversing Falls Rapids are calm and still. Time your visit to coincide with high or low tide during full and harvest moons; this is when tides are at their most extreme. The Skywalk and restaurants are open year-round. Ziplining takes place daily throughout July and August, and on select dates in June, September, and October.
Wildlife-Viewing from the Skywalk
Despite the falls’ urban setting, there is still plenty of wildlife to be seen. During rising tide, harbor seals can often be spotted hunting the fish that have been pushed upriver, while birdlife, including cormorants and gulls, often circle the skies above the rapids.
Address: Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada
From $ 84
Rideau Hall
Rideau Hall is the residence of the Governor General of Canada, and because of the country’s status as a member of the Commonwealth, is also where the monarch stays when visiting Ottawa. Rideau Hall was built in 1838 by the lumber baron Thomas MacKay and eventually became the official residence for the Canadian head of state in 1867. Most of the 175 rooms in the federal heritage building are used for state business, formal ceremonies and functions, with only a small space being dedicated to living quarters.
The grounds are just as historical as the stately mansion and represent Canada’s character and cultural diversity to the core. During the summer months the hourly changing of guard ceremony can be observed at the main gate. A characteristically colorful totem pole with a thunderbird gracing the top and a fisherman holding a salmon stands in the garden as a gift from the Kwakwaka´wakw people in the Pacific Northwest. The estate also houses an Inukshuk, an impressive Inuit stone marker originating in the Arctic, that is supposed to guide travellers and mark important spots. It is the work of Kananginak Pootoogook, a well-known Inuk sculptor from Nunavut, and was added in 1997. Among the beautiful gardens made up of flowerbeds, rose gardens and lawns, over 10,000 trees can be found, many of which have been planted by foreign dignitaries. Try to find the Red Oak planted by Jacqueline Kennedy, Nelson Mandela’s Sugar Maple or the Canadian Hemlock chosen by William and Kate to symbolize their love and marriage. If you visit in winter, make sure to not forget your skates, as an outdoor skating rink is accessible to the public on weekends.
Practical Info
Rideau Hall is located just outside of downtown Ottawa and if you plan to get there by public transport, take bus number 9 to Government House. If you are arriving by car, you will find parking available along the streets of the surrounding neighborhood. The state rooms can be visited on free 45 minute tours, some of which need reservations ahead of time. The grounds are open daily from 8am to one hour before sunset and the visitor center is staffed from May to October.
Address: 1 Sussex Drive, Ottawa, Canada
From $ 84
Niagara-on-the-Lake
Known as one of Ontario’s most beautiful towns, Niagara-on-the-Lake is an ideal destination for wine lovers and anyone looking for a slow-paced, scenic vacation. Located just over the US–Canadian border on the shores of Lake Ontario, this picturesque spot is an easy weekend getaway or day trip from Buffalo in New York, Toronto, or Niagara Falls.
The Basics
Niagara-on-the-Lake is famous for its wine, art, and music culture. The town is home to dozens of wineries, ranging from small boutiques to large estates, each with its own personality. Visitors can sample the area’s wide variety of world-class wines on a small-group wine tasting tour, enjoy a gourmet meal at one of the area’s restaurants, or opt for a private food and wine-tasting excursion with an expert tour guide. A bike tour of the area is a good option for travelers who want to get some exercise, take in the surroundings, and sample local wine along the way. Fans of the performing arts can visit one of the town’s many theaters, such as the Shaw Festival Theatre, Court House Theatre, and Royal George Theatre, while art aficionados can stop by galleries including the Angie Strauss Gallery and the Romance Collection Gallery. For an overview of Niagara highlights, take a day trip from Toronto and visit Niagara-on-the-Lake along with popular attractions such as Whirlpool Rapids, Queenston Heights, and the historic Fort George. It’s also possible to combine a visit with a ride aboard the Hornblower Niagara cruise ship for amazing views of all three falls.
Things to Know Before you Go
- The Niagara-on-the-Lake Chamber of Commerce Welcome Center is located on Queen Street, two blocks from the waterfront.
- Limited parking is available in the town’s Heritage District; drivers with handicap permits may use any municipal parking space without a fee, except in dedicated 15-minute and “no parking” zones.
- Book a guided wine-tasting tour with included transport to avoid worrying about drinking and driving.
How to Get There
Niagara-on-the-Lake lies on the southwest shore of Lake Ontario in Canada, roughly 30 minutes from Niagara Falls via the Niagara Parkway. If you’re flying in, Buffalo-Niagara International Airport is about 45 minutes away and offers shuttle service for a fee. Many full-day tours from Niagara and Toronto offer hotel pick-up.
When to Get There
While Niagara-on-the-Lake is beautiful at all times of year, the best time to visit is during late spring, summer, and early fall. Summer is the busiest season, while autumn visitors can admire vivid fall foliage and see wineries in action during the grape harvest.
Niagara-on-the-Lake Festivals
Niagara-on-the-Lake hosts numerous festivals throughout the year. In summer, Music Niagara puts on over 30 piano, jazz, and opera acts around town, while the Peach Festival celebrates the sweet local fruit. Wine festivals include the New Vintage Festival in June, the Niagara Wine Festival in September, the Icewine Festival in January, and the Days of Chocolate and Wine Festival in February. From April through November, the Shaw Festival delights audiences with performances of works by George Bernard Shaw and other playwrights from his time.
Address: Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON, Canada
From $ 60
Place Royale
The passing of centuries has had little impact on this cobbled 17th-century plaza, which has been at the center of Quebec City life since Samuel de Champlain founded the city in 1608. The Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Church, the oldest stone church in North America, still stands here, and the Fresque des Québécois mural can be seen nearby.
The Basics
With its cobbled surfaces and centuries-old stone-brick buildings, Place Royale’s film-set good looks make it one of Canada’s most charming squares. Almost all sightseeing tours of Old Quebec, whether done by foot or by bike, include Place Royale on their itinerary, alongside other historical city landmarks, such Place d’Armes, Chateau Frontenac, and the Plains of Abraham. Hop-on hop-off sightseeing buses also stop near the square.
Things to Know Before You Go
- As the birthplace of New France, Place Royale is a must-see for history-buffs.
- The ground at Place Royale is cobbled and uneven and is best suited to able-bodied travelers.
- Allow some time to explore the boutiques dotting the square.
- Bring a camera as the square makes for a picturesque backdrop.
How to Get There
Place Royale is located in Quebec’s Lower Town (Basse-Ville) and is just a short walk from Quebec City Ferry Terminal. To get there from the Gare du Palais train station, ride the number 1 or 11 buses.
When to Get There
Place Royale is located within Old Quebec, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From May through October, many tourists descend on this part of the city, often from cruise ships, and the square can get busy. If you want to photograph the square without the crowds, get there early in the day.
The Mural
North of the square just off Notre-Dame Street (Rue Notre-Dame) sits the large Fresque des Québécois mural, which covers the entire side of a 5-story building. The mural references the history of Quebec City, with some 30 notable figures included in it, among them former political leaders, artists, and writers.
Address: 27 rue Notre-Dame, Old Lower Town, Quebec City, Canada
From $ 15
Quetico Provincial Park
Quetico Provincial Park is famous for its rugged landscapes and exceptional canoeing opportunities. With over 20 miles (35 kilometers) of hiking trails and 1.1 million acres (460,000 hectares) of open space, the wilderness park appeals to both leisurely walkers and experienced hikers in addition to those interested in bird watching, cycling, fishing and swimming. There are also a range of winter sports available in the colder months. Travelers can utilize the camping facilities that range from backcountry options to car camping and roofed accommodation.
Practical Info
Quetico Provincial Park is located right at the border of Ontario and the United States in Atikokan. It can be reached by car from Thunder Bay via ON-130 and the Trans-Canada Highway 1. The main gate and information center is right next to Camp 111 Road. Daily entry fees for vehicles are $11.25.
Address: 108 Saturn Avenue, Atikokan, Ontario P0T 1C0, Canada
Admission: $11.25
From $ 37
Medicine Lake
When is a lake not a lake? When it’s a river. Medicine Lake is a geologic anomaly: though it looks like a long—4.3 mi (7 km)—and relatively shallow lake, it’s actually an area of the Maligne River. During times of glacial melt during the summer, the water backs up and forms the “lake” until it can slowly drain underground again through a series of sinkholes.
Aboriginal people called the lake Medicine Lake because of its incredible disappearing trick, but visitors these days are inspired by the opportunities for wildlife viewing of large mammals like bear, deer, moose and caribou. Fly-fishing is another popular pastime due to the proliferations of trout, but be prepared: Medicine Lake disappears in the fall and winter months, becoming a mudflat.
Practical Info
Medicine Lake is located approximately 12 mi (20 km) southeast of the town of Jasper, Alberta. Entry into Jasper National Park is $9.80 for adults, $8.30 for seniors and $4.90 for youth ages 6 -16. Jasper National Park and Medicine Lake are open year round, but adverse weather conditions may cause temporary closures of some roads.
Address: Jasper National Park, Jasper, Alberta, Canada
Admission: Adults: $9.80; Children: $4.90
From $ 56
Ripley's Aquarium Of Canada
In downtown Toronto, Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada houses approximately 16,000 water-bound species from across the world. The displays are arranged by region, and visitors can explore the tropical Rainbow Reef, check out the Dangerous Lagoon shark tank, and learn more about the marine life found in the waters around Canada.
The Basics
Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada houses both marine and freshwater species. It’s organized into nine galleries, each focused on a different type of marine habitat. The walk-through shark tank is one of the most popular, along with the jellyfish gallery where visitors can see the alien-like creatures in all their glory. For a close encounter, head to the Discovery Center, where you can interact with horseshoe crabs and board the research submarine for views of the shark tank.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Ripley’s aquarium is ideal for families with children.
- Save time by booking skip-the-line tickets in advance. Note that admission is reduced after 7pm.
- There are a café and souvenir shop on-site.
- The aquarium is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
How to Get There
The aquarium is located at 288 Bremner Boulevard, close to the CN Tower and Rogers Centre in downtown Toronto. It’s walking distance from many major downtown locations, and there is paid parking nearby. The closest subway stations are Union and St. Andrews; the nearest streetcar stop is John Street.
When to Get There
The aquarium is open 9am to 11pm, with occasional early closures (check online for the current schedule), 365 days a year. The aquarium is busiest early- to mid-afternoon, so plan your visit outside of these times for a quieter experience.
Visit the CN Tower
When the CN Tower was built in 1976, it was the tallest freestanding structure in the world. Although other buildings have dwarfed it since, a trip to the top is a classic Toronto activity and offers panoramic views of the city and Lake Ontario. Ride to the top in a glass-fronted elevator and test your nerve by walking over the clear glass floor with all of Toronto beneath you.
Address: 288 Bremner Boulevard, Toronto, Ontario M5V 3L9, Canada
Admission: Varies
From $ 19
Lake Ontario
Lake Ontario, the 14th-largest lake in the world but the smallest of the five Great Lakes, is divided in half by the U.S.-Canadian border. Its shores are home to two popular Canadian destinations: Toronto and Niagara-on-the-Lake. Known for its islands, beaches, wildlife, and waterfront trails, this beautiful body of water offers something for everyone.
The Basics
Most Lake Ontario tours depart from Toronto, Canada’s largest city. Boat tours, which range from dinner cruises to a spin around the Toronto Islands, offer shoreline views and often include the inside perspective of a guide. Helicopter and air taxi tours provide rare birds’-eye views of the lake and its surroundings.
Niagara-on-the-Lake tours frequently depart from Toronto, and often include a visit to Niagara Falls and wine tastings at the region’s legendary vineyards. These tours typically offer convenient round-trip transport from Toronto hotels.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Toronto’s waterfront path is shared by cyclists and pedestrians, so stay alert.
- Boat tours and cruises typically run from May through September, and lifeguards are on duty at Toronto city beaches from June to September.
- Popular swimming spots include Cherry Beach, Hanlan’s Point, and Ward Island.
How to Get There
As Canada’s largest city, Toronto is easily reachable by car, bus, Amtrak, or VIA Rail. Toronto’s lakeshore is accessible using the city’s comprehensive system of metros, buses, and streetcars. Day trips to Niagara-on-the-Lake are also popular, either by car or on tours that typically include round-trip transport from Toronto.
When to Get There
Lake Ontario is best visited in summer, as winter weather prohibits most water-based activities. To enjoy swimming, kayaking, boating, and waterfront sightseeing, visit from May to September.
An Island Escape
Just off the shore of Toronto lies Toronto Island Park, a tranquil escape from the city. The park is comprised of three main islands—Centre Island, Ward’s Island, and Hanlan’s Point—which offer beaches, picnic areas, and plenty of activities, from swimming to stand-up paddle-boarding. The islands are reachable by a 15-minute boat or ferry ride.
Address: Toronto, Ontario, Canada
From $ 95
Outremont
Often regarded as one of the fanciest and most expensive areas in Montreal, Outremont has only recently started to be on the tourist map. Understandably so – with its elegant avenues and stately manors, it’s no wonder more and more visitors are drawn to it. The name Outremont actually comes from a pun with the French wording for ‘over the mountain,’ seeing as most Montrealers resided south of the Mount Royal at the time. The three main thoroughfares are Bernard Avenue, Van Horne Avenue, and Laurier Avenue, which are filled with upscale shops, trendy cafés and chic French bistros that even locals consider a treat. The district also includes Mount-Royal cemetery (resting place of many major Canadian figures), which is popular with runners thanks to its giant leafy trees and soothing atmosphere.
While Outremont is a predominantly French-speaking neighborhood, it holds a lot more than just wine bars. Twenty percent of Outremont’s population is part of the Hasidic Jewish community; there are, therefore, several kosher bakeries and restaurants, as well as synagogues and Yiddish-run businesses in the area. It was the home of famed author Mordecai Richler.
Practical Info
Outremont is located in central Montreal just north of the Mont-Royal, delimited by Jean-Talon Ouest Avenue, Hutchison Avenue, and Pratt Avenue. It can be accessed in a number of ways: on foot from Mile End, by bus (lines 160, 368, 80 and 129), my metro (blue line, stop Outremont); it is also accessible by car, but parking can be complicated in the area with many metered and reserved zones.
Address: Montreal, Canada
From $ 73
Reif Estate Winery
Ewald Reif founded this classic Niagara-on-the-Lake estate in 1977 and the popular winery known for sweet ice wine and bold Cabs opened to the public just five years later. Since then, locals and travelers have been gathering to sip glasses of red and white inside its historic coach house. The Reif Estate’s wines have also received dozens of national and international awards.
Travelers who want to sample the flavors of Reif Estate have a number of options to choose from, but perhaps one of the best experiences is the Annual Harvest BBQ that blends food, drink and fun with the Niagara Wine Festival kick off each September. Tastings are available daily, including a sensory wine option, that includes blind taste testing and optional chocolate pairings. Group options are available for larger parties, too.
Visitors can tour the vineyards on their own, or take a comprehensive tour of multiple estates by bus or bike. Foodies can opt for wine pairings and gourmet meals alongside Niagara-on-the-Lake’s famous wines.
Practical Info
Reif Estates is located at 15608 Niagara Parkway. Wine tastings are available daily from 10am-6pm between April and October and from 10am-5 pm. November through March.
Address: 15608 Niagara Pkwy, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario ON L0S 1J0, Canada
Hours: April-Oct daily 10am-6pm; Nov-Mar daily 10am-5pm
From $ 116
Place d'Armes
Place d’Armes, meaning parade square, is a major public venue in Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal). The picturesque plaza is bordered by some of Montreal’s most notable architectural landmarks, including the 17th-century Saint-Sulpice Seminary, the Gothic Revival-style Notre-Dame Basilica, and the art deco Aldred Building.
The Basics
Many Montreal walking, biking, and sightseeing coach tours come to Place d’Armes so visitors can see the historic structures that surround the square. Most walking tours of Old Montreal follow routes that incorporate Place d’Armes and other historic attractions in the area, such as the Old Port, Place Jacques-Cartier, Ramezay Castle (Chateau Ramezay), and Bonsecours Market.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Place d’Armes is a must-visit for architecture fans, with many landmark buildings from different eras lining the square.
- Bring a camera: The square offers some of the finest views of Montreal’s Notre-Dame Basilica.
- Wheelchair users can access the square via the Place-d’Armes Metro station. The square’s main attraction, Notre-Dame Basilica, is also wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
To get to Place d’Armes, take the Metro Orange Line to the Place-d’Armes station. The square is just a 5-minute walk from the waterfront Old Port.
When to Get There
Visit in summer or fall, when it’s warm enough to linger and take some time to admire the surrounding sights. The square is also appealing at night when the facade of the basilica is strategically lit, highlighting its exterior architectural features. On select nights, the basilica hosts an interior light show, which use lighting design and sound to showcase the beauty of the basilica’s artwork and interior decoration.
Place d’Armes Architecture
Next to the basilica is the Saint-Sulpice Seminary. Built in 1687 by Catholic Sulpicians, Saint-Sulpice Seminary is the second-oldest building in Montreal. On another side of the square sits the red sandstone 8-story New York Life Insurance Building—built in the late 1880s and considered to be Montreal’s first skyscraper—and the Aldred Building, a 23-story 1931 art deco gem that bears a strong resemblance to the Empire State Building in New York.
Address: Montréal, QC H2Y, Canada
From $ 19