Things to Do in Your Area

Canada is a vast and diverse country, stretching from the Atlantic to the Pacific, and from the Arctic Circle down to the United States border. With such an expansive landmass, the provinces and territories of Canada offer a wide variety of activities that range from exploring the rugged wilderness to immersing oneself in vibrant city life. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, thrill-seeker, or cultural enthusiast, there is something for everyone in Canada’s provinces and territories. Below is a guide to some of the best things to do in each region.

Alberta: Adventure and Nature in the Canadian Rockies

Alberta is home to some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the world, including the iconic Rocky Mountains. The province offers outdoor adventures, vibrant cities, and a rich cultural heritage.

Banff National Park

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-see destination in Alberta. With its crystal-clear lakes, snow-capped mountains, and diverse wildlife, Banff National Park is perfect for hiking, skiing, and photography. Popular activities include visiting Lake Louise, hiking to the Plain of Six Glaciers, or taking the Banff Gondola for panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

Jasper National Park

Another gem in the Canadian Rockies, Jasper is renowned for its stargazing opportunities. As a dark-sky preserve, it offers one of the clearest views of the night sky in North America. Visitors can enjoy a range of outdoor activities like hiking, canoeing on the Athabasca River, and wildlife watching.

Calgary Stampede

Known as the “Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth,” the Calgary Stampede is a 10-day event every July celebrating Western heritage with rodeo events, concerts, and festivals. It’s an exhilarating experience for anyone interested in Canadian cowboy culture.

Edmonton

Alberta's capital is famous for its extensive network of parks, museums, and the West Edmonton Mall, the largest shopping mall in North America. The city offers a mix of urban experiences and outdoor escapes, including the beautiful Elk Island National Park, just outside the city.

British Columbia: Nature, Culture, and Outdoor Exploration

British Columbia (BC) is a province known for its diverse ecosystems, from rugged coastal landscapes to lush rainforests and mountains. Outdoor enthusiasts and culture seekers alike can find something to enjoy in this vibrant province.

Vancouver

A cosmopolitan city surrounded by natural beauty, Vancouver offers hiking in nearby mountains, cycling along the Seawall, and exploring Stanley Park’s urban rainforest. The city’s diverse culinary scene, vibrant arts culture, and proximity to Whistler make it a top destination.

Whistler

This world-renowned resort town is a hub for skiing and snowboarding in the winter, while in the summer, it becomes a mecca for mountain biking, hiking, and golfing. The Whistler Blackcomb ski slopes are some of the largest and most varied in North America.

Victoria

Located on Vancouver Island, Victoria boasts historic architecture, stunning gardens, and vibrant culture. Visit Butchart Gardens, a 55-acre botanical garden, or explore the Royal BC Museum. The Inner Harbour offers a picturesque waterfront, perfect for a stroll or a boat tour.

Great Bear Rainforest

For nature lovers, a trip to the Great Bear Rainforest on BC’s central coast is an unforgettable experience. It’s one of the most pristine rainforests in the world, home to unique wildlife, including the rare white Kermode (spirit) bear. Guided eco-tours allow you to explore this untouched wilderness.

Manitoba: Rich History and Natural Beauty

Manitoba is a province steeped in history, with thriving arts scenes, rich Indigenous culture, and breathtaking wilderness. From prairie vistas to boreal forests, there are endless opportunities to explore.

The Forks

In Winnipeg, The Forks is a historic site where the Red and Assiniboine Rivers meet. It’s a hub for local food, shopping, and cultural events. The area is home to the Canadian Museum for Human Rights, a cutting-edge institution focusing on global human rights issues.

Riding Mountain National Park

This park, located in central Manitoba, is known for its rich wildlife, including black bears, moose, and wolves. Hiking, canoeing, and fishing are popular activities, and the park's scenic vistas provide great opportunities for photography.

Churchill

Known as the “Polar Bear Capital of the World,” Churchill offers a rare chance to see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. In addition to polar bears, Churchill is also a fantastic spot for beluga whale watching and viewing the northern lights in winter.

New Brunswick: Coastal Beauty and Maritime Charm

New Brunswick offers a blend of natural beauty, fascinating history, and coastal charm. Its mix of outdoor adventures and historical landmarks makes it an attractive destination for tourists.

Bay of Fundy

The Bay of Fundy is famous for having the highest tides in the world. Visitors can explore the dramatic cliffs of Hopewell Rocks, where they can walk on the ocean floor during low tide, or take a boat tour to witness the power of the tides. The Fundy Trail Parkway offers scenic views along the coast.

Kingsbrae Garden

In the town of St. Andrews Kingsbrae Garden is a 27-acre garden showcasing over 50,000 plants. It’s a perfect spot for leisurely walks, picnics, and birdwatching.

Fundy National Park

Another highlight of New Brunswick, this park offers extensive hiking trails, including the famous Fundy Footpath, and opportunities for camping, kayaking, and wildlife watching. It’s a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.

Newfoundland and Labrador: The Land of Icebergs and History

Newfoundland and Labrador offer a unique combination of stunning natural landscapes, fascinating history, and vibrant culture. From icebergs off the coast to the rich maritime heritage, there's plenty to discover.

St. John’s

The provincial capital is one of the oldest cities in North America, known for its colorful row houses and rich history. Visit Signal Hill, where Marconi received the first transatlantic wireless signal, or explore the iconic Cape Spear, the easternmost point in North America.

Gros Morne National Park

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a stunning landscape of mountains, fjords, and coastal cliffs. It’s ideal for hiking, with trails like the Gros Morne Mountain hike offering breathtaking views of the surrounding terrain.

Iceberg Alley

In the spring and early summer, the waters off Newfoundland and Labrador’s coast are filled with floating icebergs. A boat tour or a scenic drive along Iceberg Alley is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

L'Anse aux Meadows

For history buffs, L'Anse aux Meadows is an important archaeological site where Norse explorers first landed in North America over 1,000 years ago. The site is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers visitors the chance to learn about Viking history.

Nova Scotia: Maritime Heritage and Coastal Adventures

Nova Scotia is a province known for its maritime culture, stunning coastline, and rich history. It’s a destination that offers a perfect blend of cultural exploration, outdoor activities, and coastal beauty.

Cape Breton Island

A stunning island with rugged coastlines, rolling hills, and historic sites. The Cabot Trail offers one of the most scenic drives in the world, winding through the Cape Breton Highlands and offering breathtaking views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence.

Halifax

Nova Scotia’s capital, Halifax, is a vibrant, youthful city known for its historic waterfront, museums, and lively music scene. The Halifax Citadel National Historic Site offers a glimpse into the city’s military history, while the Halifax Public Gardens provide a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city.

Peggy's Cove

This iconic fishing village is famous for its picturesque lighthouse, which stands as one of the most photographed sites in Canada. Visitors can explore the rocky coastline and experience the quaint charm of the village.

Kejimkujik National Park

A great place to experience Nova Scotia’s wilderness, Kejimkujik is known for its canoe routes, hiking trails, and ancient Mi'kmaq petroglyphs. It's a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and offers a range of outdoor activities, including swimming, fishing, and stargazing.

Ontario: Big Cities and Natural Wonders

Ontario is Canada’s most populous province, known for its vibrant cities, iconic landmarks, and vast natural beauty.

Niagara Falls

One of the most famous natural attractions in the world, Niagara Falls is a must-visit. You can experience the falls up close on a boat tour, take in the views from the Skylon Tower, or explore the surrounding area’s wine country and parks.

Toronto

Canada’s largest city offers a wealth of cultural attractions, including the Royal Ontario Museum, the Art Gallery of Ontario, and the CN Tower. Visitors can also explore the eclectic neighborhoods, such as Kensington Market, or take a ferry to the Toronto Islands for a peaceful escape.

Algonquin Provincial Park

For nature lovers, Algonquin Provincial Park is a beautiful wilderness area offering canoeing, hiking, and wildlife watching. It’s one of Ontario’s most famous parks, and its lakes and forests are a perfect place to relax and reconnect with nature.

Ottawa

The nation’s capital is home to many of Canada’s most significant landmarks, including Parliament Hill, the Rideau Canal, and the National Gallery of Canada. Ottawa is a city steeped in history and culture, and it offers a great mix of outdoor activities and urban experiences.

Prince Edward Island: Charming Countryside and Coastal Beauty

Prince Edward Island (PEI) is known for its lush landscapes, stunning beaches, and rich cultural history. It's a province that offers a more relaxed pace, making it ideal for those who want to explore charming small towns, coastal beauty, and iconic literary landmarks.

Green Gables

One of PEI's most famous attractions is the Green Gables house, made famous by the book Anne of Green Gables by Lucy Maud Montgomery. Located in Cavendish, visitors can tour the house, wander through the beautiful grounds, and explore the surrounding areas that inspired Montgomery’s beloved story.

Prince Edward Island National Park

With its stunning coastline, red sand beaches, and nature trails, this national park is perfect for outdoor lovers. Visitors can walk or bike along the Confederation Trail, explore the dunes and salt marshes, or take in the peaceful beauty of the island’s secluded coves.

Charlottetown

The capital city of PEI is a charming place to visit, with its Victorian architecture, beautiful waterfront, and historic significance. It’s known as the birthplace of the Canadian Confederation, and you can visit the Confederation Centre of the Arts to learn about the history and culture of the island.

Basin Head Provincial Park

Famous for its "singing sands," Basin Head is a beautiful beach where the sand makes a unique sound when you walk on it. It’s a great spot for swimming, picnicking, and enjoying the warm summer weather.

Quebec: A Blend of Old-World Charm and Modern Culture

Quebec is known for its French heritage, vibrant arts scene, and unique mix of European charm and North American influences. From the old city of Quebec to the cosmopolitan streets of Montreal, there’s much to see and do in this culturally rich province.

Quebec City

The historic district of Old Quebec is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its cobblestone streets, centuries-old architecture, and charming European feel. Key attractions include the iconic Château Frontenac, the Plains of Abraham, and the beautiful Montmorency Falls, which are even more spectacular when they freeze in the winter.

Montreal

A dynamic city known for its arts, food, and festivals, Montreal is the cultural hub of Quebec. Explore the historic Old Montreal, visit the beautiful Mount Royal Park, and experience the city’s incredible food scene, from poutine to French pastries. The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts and the Biodome offer excellent cultural experiences, and the city’s numerous festivals, such as the Montreal International Jazz Festival, are some of the best in the world.

La Mauricie National Park

Located between Montreal and Quebec City, La Mauricie National Park offers a natural retreat with its dense forests, lakes, and scenic hiking trails. The park is perfect for kayaking, canoeing, and camping, and it provides a tranquil escape from the city bustle.

Gaspé Peninsula

This stunning region of Quebec is known for its dramatic cliffs, picturesque fishing villages, and the famous Percé Rock. The Gaspé Coast offers excellent hiking, bird watching, and seafood experiences, making it a great destination for nature lovers.

Saskatchewan: Wide-Open Spaces and Natural Wonders

Saskatchewan is known for its wide-open prairies, boreal forests, and stunning natural beauty. The province offers unique experiences that allow visitors to explore its vast landscapes and outdoor attractions.

Prince Albert National Park

This park, located in the heart of Saskatchewan, offers diverse ecosystems, including forests, lakes, and wetlands. Visitors can explore the park’s hiking trails, enjoy canoeing or kayaking on Waskesiu Lake, and spot wildlife like black bears, moose, and bison.

Saskatoon

Known as the “Paris of the Prairies,” Saskatoon is a vibrant city with a thriving arts scene, beautiful parks, and a strong cultural heritage. Explore the Meewasin Valley Trail along the South Saskatchewan River or visit the Saskatchewan Railway Museum to learn about the province's transportation history.

Grasslands National Park

This is one of Canada’s hidden gems, offering a glimpse of the prairie landscapes that once covered much of the country. The park is home to unique flora and fauna, including bison and prairie dogs. It’s a great place for hiking, stargazing, and exploring the vast, peaceful wilderness.

Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park

This park, which straddles the border between Saskatchewan and Alberta, is one of the highest points in Canada’s prairies. It’s a great location for hiking, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing, and offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.

Yukon: Wilderness Adventures and Midnight Sun

The Yukon is a vast and wild territory, known for its rugged landscapes, rich history, and opportunities for outdoor adventures. Visitors come for the chance to explore the wilderness, spot wildlife, and experience the magic of the northern lights.

Whitehorse

The capital city of Yukon, Whitehorse is a charming town with a mix of modern amenities and historical sites. Visit the MacBride Museum of Yukon History, explore the SS Klondike, a historic paddlewheeler, or relax by the Miles Canyon. In the summer, take advantage of the long daylight hours for hiking and wildlife watching.

Kluane National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kluane National Park is home to the tallest mountain in Canada, Mount Logan. The park is ideal for hiking, wildlife watching, and exploring its glaciers, rivers, and valleys. It’s also a great place to see the northern lights in winter.

Northern Lights Viewing

The Yukon is one of the best places in the world to see the Aurora Borealis. Winter visitors can experience this natural light show in the clear, dark skies of the territory, often right from Whitehorse or the surrounding areas.

Carcross Desert

Known as the world’s smallest desert, Carcross Desert is a fascinating place to explore. It’s located in a unique environment where sand dunes meet the surrounding forest, offering a dramatic contrast in the landscape.

Northwest Territories: Remote Beauty and Indigenous Culture

The Northwest Territories are known for their remote beauty, pristine wilderness, and rich Indigenous culture. From the Nahanni National Park to the vibrant city of Yellowknife, this territory offers adventures for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience.

Yellowknife

The capital of the Northwest Territories, Yellowknife is known for its stunning northern lights and opportunities to learn about the culture of the Dene and other Indigenous groups. Visit the Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre to learn more about the region’s history or take a boat tour of Great Slave Lake.

Nahanni National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Nahanni is one of the most remote and beautiful national parks in Canada. Known for its dramatic canyons, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife, it offers some of the best wilderness experiences in the world. It’s a prime destination for rafting, hiking, and wildlife photography.

Aurora Viewing

Like the Yukon, the Northwest Territories offer spectacular opportunities for northern lights viewing. The long winter nights, clear skies, and remote locations provide an unforgettable backdrop for this natural phenomenon.

Great Slave Lake

One of the largest freshwater lakes in North America, Great Slave Lake offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and ice fishing in the winter. Visitors can also take part in cultural experiences, such as dog sledding and snowmobiling.

Nunavut: The Far North and the Arctic

Nunavut is Canada’s northernmost territory, known for its vast, untouched landscapes, unique Inuit culture, and breathtaking Arctic beauty. Visiting Nunavut is a journey to one of the most remote regions on Earth.

Iqaluit

The capital of Nunavut, Iqaluit is a small but lively city that offers a window into Inuit culture. Explore the Nunatta Sunakkutaangit Museum to learn about the history of the Inuit people, or take part in a traditional Inuit cultural experience such as throat singing or carving.

Auyuittuq National Park

Located on Baffin Island, Auyuittuq National Park is known for its dramatic fjords, glaciers, and rugged peaks. It’s a paradise for mountaineers, hikers, and adventurers, offering a glimpse of the raw beauty of the Arctic.

Arctic Wildlife

Nunavut is home to a range of Arctic wildlife, including polar bears, seals, and migratory birds. Wildlife tours in the region offer the chance to see these animals in their natural habitat, particularly in the summer months when the ice melts and the wildlife is more active.

Polar Bear Viewing

For those seeking the ultimate Arctic experience, a polar bear viewing tour in Nunavut is an unforgettable experience. Visitors can learn about the conservation efforts to protect these magnificent creatures while observing them in their natural, untamed environment.