Choose from 290 Fun Things to Do in Canada
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Banff Lake Louise
The turquoise jewel of the Canadian Rockies, Lake Louise sits nestled between glaciers, beckoning visitors with its mirror-like waters, serene setting, and plethora of summer and winter activities, from hiking to snowshoeing. The mountain resort town of Banff is just down the Trans-Canada Highway from Lake Louise.
The Basics
Lake Louise is the name of both the lake and hamlet inside Banff National Park, each located about 6 miles (10 kilometers) apart. Part of the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks UNESCO World Heritage Site, the area is near Jasper National Park and glacial attractions like Athabasca Glacier, the Columbia Icefield, and the Glacier Skywalk. You might spend the majority of your time at Lake Louise, or take a tour from Banff that covers Kootenay National Park, Marble Canyon, and the lake. Hiking, mountain biking, and kayaking are popular summertime pursuits, while Lake Louise Ski Resort provides wintertime recreation and some winter tours include snowshoe treks. To see nearby sites without transportation hassles, take a hop-on hop-off bus through Banff, with stops running from Banff townsite to Lake Louise.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The elevation of Lake Louise is 5,740 feet (1,750 meters), while Banff is at 4,540 feet (1,384 meters); drink plenty of water to stay hydrated at the high altitudes.
- Some short trails in the area provide wheelchair accessibility, such as the Banff Legacy Trail and Bow Riverside Trail.
- The area’s public shuttles are not wheelchair accessible.
- A Park Pass is required to enter Banff National Park and to travel on the scenic parkways such as the Icefields Parkway; this requirement is covered in most tours.
How to Get There
Lake Louise is 35 miles (57 kilometers) northwest of Banff, which is 79 miles (127 kilometers) west of Calgary, Alberta’s largest city and home to Calgary International Airport. The Rocky Mountaineer has regularly scheduled train service with a stop in Banff. Once in Banff, the hop-on hop-off bus tour provides transportation around Banff National Park, including to Lake Louise.
When to Get There
Banff and Lake Louise are year-round destinations, so plan your visit according to the experiences that interest you. Warm-weather activities like hiking generally run from June to mid-October with July and August being the warmest months. The larch trees around Lake Louise turn yellow and orange in late September or early October. Winter activities like skiing and snowshoeing run from December through April.
Visiting the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
In addition to natural splendor, Lake Louise boasts a man-made icon, as well—the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. Dating back to 1911, the luxury hotel has hosted Hollywood stars and European royalty and is worth a visit for afternoon tea, a fondue dinner, a spa treatment, or a drink with a view of the turquoise lake.
Address: Trans-Canada Highway, Lake Louise T0L 1E0, Canada
Admission: Free
From $ 46
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
Annapolis Valley
Running along the south shore of the Bay of Fundy, Nova Scotia’s fertile Annapolis Valley produces some of Canada’s finest fruit and vegetables. Apple orchards and vineyards carpet the verdant valley, U-pick farms and farmers markets abound, and several historic sites recount the history of early Acadian settlers.
The Basics
With its pretty rural landscapes and dramatic coastline, the Annapolis Valley is a popular option among hikers, cyclists, sea kayakers, and wildlife enthusiasts; you can spot whales in the adjacent Bay of Fundy. Many tours of the Annapolis Valley focus on the culinary scene, offering the chance to taste local Canadian wines at Annapolis Valley wineries, chow down on fresh Bay of Fundy seafood, and sample delicious local products, from fresh produce to condiments.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Annapolis Valley is a must for food and wine lovers.
- Rain is common in the Annapolis Valley, even in summer, so come prepared with waterproof gear.
- Some wineries in the region, such as Luckett Vineyards, and several attractions, such as the Grand Pré National Historic Site, are wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
Annapolis Bay is situated north of Halifax in Nova Scotia. Fly into Halifax Airport and drive north, or take the ferry from Saint John, New Brunswick to Digby, Nova Scotia. Driving gives visitors the most flexibility, but with so many wineries in the region, you may be better off going as part of an organized tour so you can indulge in tastings.
When to Get There
May through October is the best time to visit Annapolis Valley, as temperatures are mild and pleasant. The valley is at its most picturesque in May, when the apple orchards blossom. The fall harvest, meanwhile, is a good time to pick fruit at local farms.
Historic Sites in the Valley
In addition to being a foodie hotspot, the Annapolis Valley also has several historic attractions that recall the area’s colonial past. The Grand Pré National Historic Site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, remembers the expulsion of the Acadians (early French settlers) by the British; the Port Royal National Historic Site and the Fort Anne National Historic Site look back at early Acadian settlements in the region.
Address: Canada
From $ 123
Bonsecours Market
Built in the 1840s, this neoclassical silver-domed building has served as a farmers market, theater, and for a brief stint as Montreal's city hall. It was threatened with demolition before being converted into the current market complex, which contains cafes, restaurants, galleries, and shops selling Quebec-made crafts and design items.
The Basics
A National Historic Site in the heart of Old Montreal (Vieux-Montreal), Bonsecours Market is commonly visited by travelers exploring on foot. Wander around the shops at your leisure, admiring high-quality products ranging from kitchenware to handmade jewelry. Galleries inside the market display works from First Nations and Quebec artists.
Many walking tours of Old Montreal include time at the market. Guides can provide additional information on the history of the market, which has witnessed many periods of political turbulence.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Bonsecours Market is a must for architecture enthusiasts and shoppers looking to pick up quality local goods.
- Several restaurants and cafes can be found within the market.
- Bonsecours Market is partially though not fully wheelchair accessible, and some of the surrounding cobbled streets may prove challenging.
How to Get There
Bonsecours Market is in Old Montreal next to the Old Port (Vieux-Port). The nearest metro station is Champ-de-Mars (Orange Line), which is less than 10 minutes away on foot.
When to Get There
The indoor Bonsecours Market is open year-round. In winter, it provides a warm shelter from the freezing city streets, while in the hot summer, it serves as a cooling refuge. The market is typically busier during summer, when more tourists are in town.
What to See Nearby
Bonsecours Market is in Old Montreal, a district known for its atmospheric cobbled streets and historic architecture, some of which date back to the early days of New France. While you're in the area, be sure to take a stroll down Rue Saint-Paul, on which the market is located. This cobbled stretch is one of the city's prettiest thoroughfares. Other worthwhile attractions within easy walking distance of the market include the 18th-century Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel and Ramezay Castle (Chateau Ramezay), the 18th-century residence of French governors, which now serves as a history museum displaying historic art, furniture, and other items.
Address: 350 rue St-Paul Est, Vieux Montreal, Montreal, Canada
Admission: Varies
From $ 15
Basilique-Cathedrale Notre-Dame de Quebec
The oldest Christian parish north of Mexico, the grandiose Basilique-Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Québec started life as a much more modest church in 1647 but was damaged and rebuilt several times—most recently in the 1920s following a devastating fire. The basilica is a must-see for anyone with an interest in architecture, art, and history.
The Basics
The cathedral is a common stop during walking tours and history-focused sightseeing tours of UNESCO-listed Old Quebec, the historic heart of French Canada. During summer, it’s possible to take guided tours of the basilica crypt—where important figures, including François de Laval, the first bishop of New France—are interred.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Services in the church are conducted in French.
- The cathedral is wheelchair accessible.
- Panels providing information are placed throughout the church.
How to Get There
The Basilique-Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Québec is located on Rue de Buade in Old Quebec. It’s less than five minutes from the Quebec Funicular. From the Gare du Palais train station, it’s around 10 minutes away on foot. Alternatively, ride the 11 bus from Gare Palais to the de Buade stop.
When to Get There
Most visitors come to Quebec City during summer, when the port is open to cruise ships. During these times, the cathedral can become pretty crowded. Arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowds. The cathedral is at its quietest and most peaceful on weekdays in winter.
Treasures of the Cathedral
The cathedral’s interior is lavish. The ceiling is painted like a sky complete with clouds and gold-leaf decoration, while vividly colored stained glass windows let in a soft light. While most of its important artworks and artifacts were destroyed by the devastating 1922 fire, a chancel lamp that gifted by Louis XIV, somehow survived and can still be seen on display here.
Address: 20 rue de Buade, Latin Quarter, Quebec City, Canada
From $ 24
Banff National Park
Banff National Park is one of two parks protecting Alberta’s Rocky Mountains bordering British Columbia; the other park is Jasper.
You’ll see some of the most astounding landscapes on the planet in Banff National Park: snowcapped mountains, huge river valleys, alpine forests, ludicrously blue lakes and charming mountain hamlets.
Covering 6,641 square km (2,564 square miles), Banff was the first national park to be declared in Canada, focusing on the area’s famous thermal hot springs.
Most visitors come to Banff National Park for the legendary skiing, spectacular views and peerless rock climbing and hiking. The park has information centers in Banff, Lake Louise and Upper Hot Springs.
Practical Info
Banff National Park is crossed by the Icefields Parkway (Highway 93), linking Lake Louise in the south with Jasper in the north.
Hire a car to come here, take an organized tour, catch a bus from Calgary or ride the sightseeing train between Banff and Vancouver.
Address: Icefields Parkway, Banff T1L 1K2, Canada
Admission: CA$9.80
From $ 45
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
Bloedel Floral Conservatory
Atop a hill in Queen Elizabeth Park, the Bloedel Floral Conservatory—or simply Bloedel Conservatory—overlooks downtown Vancouver and the North Shore Mountains. The domed structure is divided into three climatic zones: tropical, subtropical, and desert. It houses plants and free-flying birds with eye-catching plumage.
The Basics
Purchase tickets for the Bloedel Conservatory in advance and explore the site independently, wandering at your preferred pace. Among the many different species growing here, you’ll find succulents, cacti, banyans, and colorful orchids. Look out for the free-flying birds that inhabit the conservatory, which range from rainbow-colored Gouldian finches to chatty African parrots.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Bloedel Conservatory is an ideal rainy- or cold-day destination for families.
- Pick up a bird-watching checklist from the front desk to help you identify the various species you see.
- The conservatory is wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
The Bloedel Conservatory is in Queen Elizabeth Park, less than 15 minutes’ drive from downtown Vancouver. To get there using public transit, take the SkyTrain (Canada Line) to King Edward Station. From there, it’s 15–20 minutes to the conservatory on foot. Alternatively, ride bus 15 to Cambie Street/West 33rd Avenue.
When to Get There
Though it’s open year-round, the Bloedel Conservatory is a particularly welcome place to while away a cold or wet winter’s day, as the interior is warm and balmy. Weekend afternoons are the busiest time, so come early in the morning or midweek.
What Else to See at Queen Elizabeth Park
While you’re at the conservatory, it’s worth setting aside some time to explore surrounding Queen Elizabeth Park. On warm days, children love splashing around in the jets of the Dancing Waters fountain outside the conservatory, while older visitors will enjoy browsing the artists’ offerings at Painters’ Corner. A stroll around the park may also lead you to the quarry garden, the rose garden, or one of several public artworks, including the bronze sculpture Knife Edge Two Piece by the renowned English sculptor Henry Moore.
Address: 4600 Cambie St., Vancouver, BC, Canada
Admission: Varies
From $ 5
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
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
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
Bird Kingdom Niagara Falls
Housed in a former Niagara Falls corset factory, Bird Kingdom houses hundreds of brightly plumed feathered fliers. Inside the multilevel rainforest—said to be the world’s largest free-flying indoor aviary—exotic birds perch on jungle foliage and soar overhead. Other residents include bats, snakes, tortoises, iguanas, and bearded dragons.
The Basics
This indoor aviary, located within a vast 50,000-square-foot (4,645-square-meter) complex, makes for a great family day out. Tickets grant you access to all exhibits within the facility, including the main aviary, the small bird aviary, a rare 19th-century teak Javanese house, and the Night Jungle, where artificial lighting lets you witness nocturnal rainforest creatures at their most active. You can interact with reptiles and birds at the Animal Encounters exhibit, as well as give nectar (included with admission) to colorful parrots during the feedings that take place several times daily at Lorikeet Landing.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Bird Kingdom is ideal for bird enthusiasts and families.
- Allow around one to two hours to properly explore Bird Kingdom.
- Bird-watching enthusiasts may want to bring binoculars to get a closer look.
- Most of Bird Kingdom, except for the Javanese House, is accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
The best way to get to Bird Kingdom is to drive. From Toronto, take Queen Elizabeth Way West to the Highway 420 exit. Paid parking is available at the corner of Hiram and River Roads. Bird Kingdom is less than a 5-minute walk from Rainbow Bridge, an official border crossing point between the US and Canada. If you’re coming from the US, allow extra time to cross the border.
When to Get There
Bird Kingdom is busiest from June through August, during Niagara Falls’ peak visitor season. Come just after opening to experience the aviary at its quietest.
Spectacular Species at the Bird Kingdom
Among the many birds in the Bird Kingdom aviaries are several rare and unusual species. Look for the double yellow-headed Amazon, an eye-catching parrot species with a bright green body and a yellow head; the hyacinth macaw, distinguished by its bright cobalt blue feathers; the African gray parrot, a famously talkative breed; and the surprisingly beautiful blue-crowned pigeon.
Address: 5651 River Road, Downtown, Niagara Falls L2E 7M7, Canada
Hours: Open daily, hours change seasonally.
Admission: Adults: CA$17.95
From $ 16
Boldt Castle
Built in the early 20th century in the middle of Heart Island, Boldt Castle is one of the main tourist attractions of the Thousand Islands in the Saint Lawrence River.
George Boldt began building the 120-room castle in 1900 for his wife, and when she died four years later all work on the building stopped. It was left empty and open to the elements for more than 70 years. The castle was purchased in 1977 and has been restored as a local attraction. The first floor of the castle is meant to show how the Boldt family would have decorated it, had they ever moved in.
The castle itself sits in the middle of Heart Island, but there are other buildings that make up the estate – including a castle-like “power house” with a small stone bridge and a tower building at the water's edge that was originally designed to be an entertainment area for guests.
Practical Info
Visitors get to Heart Island by boat (if you own a boat, you can dock there for free) from either the U.S. or Canada, and some of the grounds and buildings are open to the public. Entry to these areas is $8.50 for adults and $6 for children ages 6-12. The castle is open for self-guided tours from mid-May through mid-October; the open hours vary by month, but it's typically open between 10-11am and closes between 5-7:30pm.
Address: Alexandria Bay, New York, USA
Hours: Vary by season
Admission: Adults: $8.50; Children: $6 (ages 6-12)
From $ 204
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
Banff Gondola
The Banff Gondola promises gasp-worthy views of the Canadian Rockies. After an 8-minute ride to Sulphur Mountain’s 7,500-foot (2,286-meter) summit, visitors arrive at a complex with several viewing areas, interactive exhibits, and restaurants. Also here are hiking trailheads and access to an elevated boardwalk leading to Sanson’s Peak.
The Basics
The Banff Gondola is the quickest and easiest way to get to the top of a Rocky Mountain peak.
You can purchase tickets in advance, choosing between morning, midday, and evening departures. Journey up via the glass-enclosed, 4-person gondola, then explore the summit at your leisure, enjoying the lofty vantage point of the 360-degree deck, walking the 0.66-mile (1-kilometer) Sulphur Mountain Boardwalk to the Sulphur Mountain Cosmic Ray Station, following the South East Ridge Trail to the mountain’s true summit, and browsing the hands-on exhibits at the Above Banff interpretive center. On select winter nights, stargazing sessions are held at the summit’s station. Adventurous visitors can hike 3.4 miles (5.5 kilometers) of strenuous trail and switchbacks up Sulphur Mountain to the gondola’s upper terminal and take a one-way gondola ride down. You also can visit the summit as part of a broader sightseeing tour that includes other Banff National Park highlights such as Tunnel Mountain Drive, Two Jack Viewpoint, and Lake Minnewanka.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Visitors who hike one way and ride the gondola the other way still have to pay for a round-trip ticket.
- It can be cold at the summit station, even in summer, so bring extra layers.
- The Banff Gondola is accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
The Banff Gondola lower terminal is located about 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) south of Banff town center. To get there, take the Route 1 Roam bus from Banff town, which leaves around every 40 minutes. Driving from Banff via Mountain Avenue takes around 10 minutes; parking is available at the lower terminal.
When to Get There
The Banff Gondola is busiest on summer weekends, so if you’re visiting then, arrive early in the day. During the winter months, the snowy vistas are magical and the summit is generally very peaceful. Summer is prime hiking season in this part of Canada; trails can be slippery in spring and fall, and icy in winter. The gondola closes for around two weeks every January to allow for maintenance work.
What You Can See From the Top
Upon arrival at the top of Sulphur Mountain, you are treated to astonishing views encompassing six different mountain ranges. Directly below is the town of Banff itself, the Bow River, and the Banff Upper Hot Springs. Often you can spot shaggy bighorn sheep grazing on the slopes.
Address: Mountain Avenue, Banff AB T1L 1B2, Canada
Hours: Hours vary by season
Admission: CA$62
From $ 34
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
Algonquin Provincial Park
Established in 1893, Algonquin is the oldest provincial park in Canada. Spreading across 2,955 square miles (7,650 square kilometers), this vast wilderness encompasses maple-carpeted hills, thick pine forest, and thousands upon thousands of lakes. The abundant wildlife here includes black bears, moose, and packs of Algonquin wolves.
The Basics
Though Algonquin presents many opportunities for day trips, including hikes along trailheads just off Highway 60, you’ll need several days to explore more remote parts of the park’s interior. The park offers countless opportunities for swimming, wildlife-viewing, fishing, stargazing, and relaxing in nature.
Much of the interior is accessible only via the vast Algonquin Park canoe routes network, which can be explored as part of multi-day tours. Visitors can get an introduction to wilderness camping on guided multi-day canoe trips that include canoe rentals, meals, permits, and equipment. For a more comfortable park tour option, choose a multi-day adventure tour that includes accommodation in a lodge or forest cabin.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Algonquin Provincial Park is a must for wildlife lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
- For information and tips, stop by the Algonquin Visitor Centre, situated along Highway 60.
- Algonquin Provincial Park has wheelchair-accessible campgrounds, trails (Spruce Bog Boardwalk Trail and Fire Tower Trail), and visitor facilities, including the Algonquin Visitor Centre and Algonquin Logging Museum.
How to Get There
Algonquin Provincial Park is situated between Georgian Bay and the Ottawa River in central Ontario, about 185 miles (300 kilometers) north of Toronto. The park is accessible via Highway 60, which cuts through part of the southern section.
When to Get There
Algonquin offers different activities in different seasons. Spring is good for birding, lake trout fishing, and moose watching; mid-September to mid-October is best for fall colors; and winter offers snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and dog-sledding opportunities. Watch out for black flies and mosquitoes, which are out in full force between late May and late June.
Algonquin Park Wildlife
Algonquin Provincial Park is known for its abundance of wildlife. While black bears, white-tailed deer, and moose are all commonly spotted, the most famous inhabitants of the park are the Algonquin wolves. About 35 wolf packs are believed to roam the park, and public wolf howls are held at the park every August. During these events, naturalist staff intimate the calls of wolves, encouraging them to respond. Those camping in Algonquin are bound to hear the distinctive call of the loon, which is most vocal during May and June.
Address: Ontario 60, Ontario, Canada
From $ 416
Albert Gilles Copper Art Museum
Run by the wife and family of the late, great coppersmith, Albert Gilles, the Albert Gilles Copper Art Museum showcases artwork by both Gilles and his family. Part of the economusee network of Canada, this small museum allows visitors to make their own copper memento, and groups with reservations will get to see live copper work demos. In the museum store, you’ll also find artworks and jewelry for sale.
Albert Gilles was born in Paris in 1895, where an aunt taught him the craft of copper embossing. Crossing the Atlantic in the 1930s to make a new life in Quebec, Gilles quickly established a name for himself as a master coppersmith and created work for everyone from Walt Disney to Pope XII. Perhaps his most famous work is the copper doors he created for Ste-Anne-de-Beaupré basilica, 22 miles outside Quebec City. This famous cathedral receives up to half a million pilgrims a year, and in Quebec City itself you can spot Albert Gilles’ designs on the copper roof of the iconic Château Frontenac hotel.
Practical Info
A 20-minute drive from Quebec City in the Château-Richer on 7450 Boulevard Sainte-Anne, entrance to the Albert Gilles Copper Art Museum is free. The museum is open daily from 8:30am-5pm between May and October, and from 9am-4pm from November to April.
Address: 7450 Boulevard Sainte-Anne Château-Richer, Quebec City, Canada
Hours: 8:30am-5pm daily between May and October; 9am-4pm daily from November to April
From $ 44
Blomidon Estate Winery
What better way to enjoy the fine Nova Scotia wines than on a scenic 10-hectare vineyard in the Annapolis region? Blessed with a micro-climate that permits grape growing, the Blomidon Estate Winery is located on the bucolic shore of the Minas Basin has won numerous national and international awards over the years. Many of the blocks were planted in 1986 –including established Baco Noir, L’Acadie Blanc, Seyval Blanc and Chardonnay, with newer plantings of Riesling, New York Muscat- giving Blomidon some of the oldest vines in the province. Their 100% Nova Scotia production includes crisp whites, strong reds, sweet rosés, sparkling wines (crémants and Prosecco-style sparkling) and delicate ice wines produced in the utmost Canadian tradition. The vineyard provides the perfect backdrop for a relaxed picnic or an expert tasting, and is one of the most picturesque pieces of land in the province.
Practical Info
The Blomidon Estate Winery is located an hour and a half (107 kilometers/66 miles) north of Halifax. It can be reached by car via route 101, 358 and 221. The winery is open between Mondays and Saturdays from 10am to 5pm and on Sundays from 12AM to 5PM. Vineyard tours are available daily during the summer months and cost $5 per person.
Address: 10318 NS-221, Canning B0P 1H0, Canada
Hours: Mon-Sat 10am-5pm; Sun 12-5pm
Admission: $5 per person
From $ 123
Atwater Market
Housed inside a 1930s building topped with an art deco clock tower, Atwater Market (Marché Atwater) is one of the city’s top foodie hot spots. Food sellers hawk local artisanal produce including Canadian ice wine, maple syrup, Quebec cheeses, charcuterie, fresh-from-the-oven pastries, and all kinds of farm-grown fruit and vegetables.
The Basics
Together with Jean-Talon Market in Little Italy, Atwater Market is among Montreal’s most popular markets. Visitors can explore the site independently, enjoying samples of the various gourmet goodies for sale then sitting down for some people-watching. Organized bike tours of Montreal often make stops at Atwater Market, as well as riding by other waterfront sites such as the Old Port and the Lachine Canal.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Atwater Market is a must-see for foodies.
- The market is partially wheelchair-accessible.
- Bring a reusable shopping bag and cash, as not all vendors accept foreign cards.
How to Get There
Atwater Market is located in Little Burgundy (Petite Bourgogne), near the Lachine Canal. Ride the green or orange metro line to Lionel-Groulx; the market is just a 5-minute walk from there. Alternatively, grab a bicycle from Montreal’s BIXI bike-share system and follow the canalside cycle path to the market.
When to Get There
Open daily, Atwater Market is at its biggest and best in summer, when additional vendors set up shop in the exterior sections of the market. During the warmer months, buskers often perform in the surrounding streets. Arrive early and enjoy breakfast courtesy of a local bakery, and watch as the crowds begin to stream in.
What to Eat at Atwater Market
No matter what time of the year you visit, you’ll find tasty treats on offer at Atwater. The Poissonnerie du Marché Atwater is the place to go for fish fresh from the waters off Canada’s east coast. Boucherie de Tours sells pork, poultry, beef, and game, and Fromagerie Hamel serves up cheeses from throughout Quebec. Maple products are also commonly sold at the market, with everything from maple taffy and maple butter to the classic syrup on offer, while Première Moisson promises bread, cakes, and pastries.
Address: 138 Atwater Avenue, Montreal QC H4C 2G3, Canada
From $ 66