19 Most Lovely Locations To Go to In Canada

Canada is the second-largest nation on the planet with an enormous array of pure wonders, so any try to make an inventory of locations in a rustic recognized for its sheer magnificence will all the time be a tricky ask! Everybody may have their concepts, however from my time exploring this terribly scenic nation, listed here are my favorites…

1. Yellowknife/Northwest Territories

Once you’re executed strolling across the oldest metropolis in North America and ticked the polar bears off your wildlife listing, I like to recommend correctly heading up north in the hunt for the Aurora Borealis, aka the Northern Lights.

As a pure phenomenon, you’re by no means assured to see them, however Yellowknife within the Northwest Territories is a superb place to attempt. Simply keep in mind to wrap up heat! To get one of many best glimpses into such an enormous, sprawling nation, how about going coast to coast, from Atlantic to Pacific?

Few individuals expertise driving throughout the Trans-Canada Freeway or driving the Canadian (a Fifties prepare journeying from Toronto to Vancouver over 3-4 days) in a single journey. Nonetheless, for my part, anybody who does so will keep in mind it for the remainder of their lives! 

• Deal with: Northwest Territories, Canada
• Location Map
• Finest time to go to: from early Sept to mid-April (to see the Nothern Lights).

My favourite highlights…

• Taking a tour of the auroral oval to see the magnificent and breathtaking Northern Lights.
• Exploring the Outdated City on Nice Slave Lake’s waterfront the place I discovered an array of prime eating places and artwork retailers.
• Climbing alongside the Ingraham Path to see Hidden Lake Territorial Park which featured Cameron Falls.

2. The Rockies

Whereas the complete Rockies additionally stretch by means of the USA, in relation to jaw-dropping surroundings, its northern neighbor comes up trumps, whether or not for mountaineering in the summertime or snowboarding within the winter.

Comprising 5 Nationwide Parks (Banff, Glacier, Jasper, Kootenay, and Yoho), this space must be close to the highest of any bucket listing! 

The Rocky Mountaineer is the prepare of alternative for a lot of honeymooners, and it’s straightforward to see why – glass-topped carriages giving superlative views onto glaciers, towering mountain peaks, waterfalls, canyons, and lakes so blue you’ll suppose your eyes have been Photoshopped.

• Location:  Banff Nationwide Park, The Canadian Rockies.
• Location Map
• Finest time to go to: July to August

My highlights…

• Admiring the beautiful views of the encompassing panorama by taking a journey up the Banff Gondola.
• Visiting the attractive Moraine Lake, well-known for being on the again of the Canadian greenback invoice.
• Take a dip within the heat waters of the new springs stuffed with a soothing ambiance.

3. Vancouver Island, Vancouver and the Johnstone Strait

After visiting Vancouver, I made a decision it’s up there with a few of the greatest cities on the planet. I beloved how straightforward on the attention it was, the cool and cosmopolitan vibe, its unbelievable array of bars, eating places, cafes and museums, the pleasant locals and the hanging skylines! 

Subsequent I explored the coast and surfers love the wild, epic waves right here (although with a nickname of “Graveyard of the Pacific” the west coast must be approached with warning), and animal lovers come to identify the attractive orcas within the waters of the Johnstone Strait. 

Vancouver Island is one other must-see in Canada. It’s a famously attractive and tranquil spot with pristine surroundings and pockets of quirky communities.

Should you want one thing extra sedate to all that pleasure, I might advocate enjoyable with one thing quintessentially British (properly, you’re in British Columbia, in any case!) – afternoon tea on the Empress Lodge, Victoria, which is listed as one of the crucial ‘iconic inns on the planet.’ 

My must-do highlights…

• Going kayaking to discover the picturesque lake waters and wildlife.
• Wandering by means of The Butchart Backyard’s vibrant 55 acres of lush flowers and greenery.
• Climbing the Wild Pacific Path which took me across the rugged cliffs and coast of the island.
• Photographing the long-lasting Capilano Suspension Bridge. 
• Going Whale watching –  I feel it is a must-do from Could to October!

4. Lake Louise

Lovely Lake Louise is positioned in the Rockies however deserves a particular point out! 

You’ve seen the images – with water nearly impossibly turquoise (the results of minerals within the rock that move into the lake after glacial erosion) – now it’s time to see the lake for your self and get an image of your self.

I might say this isn’t the place to get away from all of it – and definitely received’t have the ability to get away from hundreds of different vacationers – however some locations are in style for good cause, and for my part, should be visited anyway! 

• Location: Banff Nationwide Park
• Map Location
• Finest time to go to: Summer season

My favorite highlights…

• Capturing an Insta-worthy shot with the well-known electrical blue lake as your backdrop.
• Renting a canoe and spend time on the attractive waters. 
• Discovering the proper hen’s eye view overlooking the lake by way of a mountaineering path.

5. Churchill, Manitoba

To followers of seeing animals of their pure atmosphere, this place is not a secret – it’s marketed because the “Polar Bear Capital of the World”, and it greater than lives as much as its identify (I noticed about 40 of them in in the future on a latest journey – though you may wish to verify your traveler’s insurance coverage earlier than you go it may be a furry expertise!).

Whereas it’s already the premier vacation spot for seeing these stunning white bears, not everybody realises that it’s also a implausible place to see Beluga whales in late summer time.

Add to that the chance, in the event you’re fortunate, to see the Northern Lights within the deep of winter and to see colourful wildflowers in June-August, and it means this tiny city of round 1000 individuals has one thing to supply year-round. 

• Deal with: Manitoba, Canada
• Map Location 
• Finest time to go to: January, February and March (for Northern Mild watching).

My highlights…

• Seeing the Northern Lights, it is a nice location to try to spot them! 
• Stopping by the Churchill Northern Research Middle to study concerning the historical past and ecology of the world.
• Wandering across the fascinating Prince of Wales Fort, which is barely accessible by boat.

6. On the path of the Titanic in Nova Scotia

Regardless of visiting throughout a snowy blizzard, I nonetheless loved my time in Halifax. Partly as a result of I all the time needed to say I’d been to Nova Scotia, but additionally as a result of there’s a wealth of historical past there.

As a result of blanket snow, I couldn’t go to the “Titanic Graveyard”, as lots of the fateful boat’s passengers are buried there. Pier 21, Canada’s equal to the USA’s Ellis Island, was the “Gateway to Canada” for hundreds of immigrants from ocean liners from 1928-1971 and is now considered one of Canada’s most vital museums.

Halifax additionally makes jumping-off level for drives additional afield to Prince Edward Island or Cape Breton.

• Location: Japanese seaboard of North America
• Map Location
• Finest time to go to: Could and September

My must-do highlights…

• Taking a half-day guided tour to study concerning the historic tragedy.
• Exploring the Pier 21 museum to delve into the previous of this fascinating Canadian location.

7. Niagara Falls

Angel Falls could also be larger, and Victoria Falls could also be wider, however Niagara nonetheless holds the crown of the world’s most well-known waterfall.

It offered the backdrop for considered one of Marilyn Monroe’s higher movies, has hosted numerous weddings and honeymooning {couples}, and daredevils from throughout the globe have come to check themselves towards the may of mom nature, both by crossing on a tightrope or throwing themselves over the sting in a barrel.

Fortunately, there are safer methods to benefit from the falls, particularly the Maid of the Mist boat (tip: it’s price letting individuals previous you so that you simply’re on the entrance of the queue if you wish to be sure you’re first into one of many wettest spots on the boat).

Everybody has their very own opinion of which aspect is best (Canadian vs American) however as it’s possible you’ll solely go to as soon as I’d counsel seeing it from each!

• Location: Between Ontario, Canada and New York State, New York
• Map Location
• Finest time to go to: mid-Could to mid-September

My highlights… 

• Hovering by means of the sky on the funWildPlay Zipline, which hits speeds of 40mph.
• Getting a novel view of the majestic falls by driving the Skylon Tower 233 meters up excessive.
• Testing the adrenaline-pumping and award-winning Fallsview Indoor Waterpark!

8. Toronto

Even probably the most dedicated nature seekers will discover themselves in a metropolis in some unspecified time in the future, so embrace all that city life affords in Toronto. To me, it appeared like a smaller, cleaner, tidier model of New York.

The views from the CN Tower (which held the title of the world’s tallest freestanding construction for over 30 years) are as unbelievable as you’d think about, whereas the Royal Ontario Museum is one of the best single abstract of Canada’s cultural life and historical past.

For one thing uncommon, I might counsel testing the Cineforum (the place native eccentric Reg Hartt will primarily present you quick movies and animations in his lounge and perhaps discuss LSD…), whereas the historic Distillery District is alive with cafes, artwork galleries, and idiosyncratic retailers.

And eventually, I might advocate strolling as much as the Gothic Revival stately house Casa Loma – in equal elements fascinating, quirky, and tragic! 

• Location: Ontario
• Map Location
• Finest time to Go to: late April by means of Could and September by means of October

My favourite highlights…

• Wandering round Toronto Island Park, which featured stunning trails, small seashores and some amusement rides.
• Watching a baseball recreation on the Rogers Middle is a must-do exercise.
• Buying some recent native produce from St Lawrence Market, a metropolis landmark.

9. The Bay of Fundy

Virtually as world-famous as another locations on this listing and simply as spectacular, kayakers and canoers come from everywhere in the world to paddle by means of the jaw-dropping surroundings and the planet’s highest tides.

The distinctive geography of the attractive space additionally implies that whale watching right here is a necessary expertise – you may see humpback, fin, proper whales, and even blue whales.

• Location: New Brunswick and Nova Scotia.
• Map Location
• Finest occasions to go to: Spring, Summer season and Fall

My favourite highlights…

• Admiring the spectacular Hopewell Rocks with their uncommon formations created by the Fundy tides.
• Watching the power of the tides in motion from the statement deck, which has a transparent glass-panelled ground.
• Exploring the plush greenery and exquisite waterfalls on the Nationwide Park.

10. Quebec Metropolis

Within the French-speaking province of Quebec, Montreal is a implausible metropolis for a lot of causes little Quebec Metropolis could also be a sufferer of its success when it comes to recognition for my part, it’s nonetheless price visiting!

The world’s most photographed lodge is within the middle of city, North America’s solely Ice Lodge is round half-hour away, and round each nook is a glimpse into one other quaint aspect avenue or romantic cafe, making this 400-year-old metropolis fantastic to discover on foot.

• Location: Québec province
• Map Location
• Finest time to go to: June to September and December to February.

My favourite highlights…

• Strolling throughout the unbelievable suspending bridge above Parc de la Chute-Montmorency.
• Visiting the well-known Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral which is stuffed with breathtaking structure.
• Having enjoyable at implausible Village Vacances Valcartier/Ice Lodge, which boasts the biggest theme park in Canada.

11. Outdated Montreal

Was I in Montreal or Marseilles? Other than numerous billboards promoting poutine, I used to be hard-pressed to inform the distinction. Take a stroll down these stunning boulevards, and also you’ll be introduced with quaint nook cafés, boutiques with fairly home windows, spectacular columns, and church buildings, all of which communicate strongly of Canada’s colonial previous.

You’ll have the ability to discover the quite a few fairly cobbled streets, really feel all cultural, and store ‘til you drop concurrently.

Try the Basilica of Notre Dame earlier than stopping for a cappuccino and taking the load off your weary ft while you people-watch and attempt to get your head round it not being precise France.

• Location: Québec province
• Map Location
• Finest occasions to go to: between April and Could and September to November

My favourite highlights…

• Visiting the Notre Dame Basilica, the oldest Catholic parish church within the metropolis, which is stuffed with spectacular interiors.
• Driving on the La Grande Roue de Montreal for one of the best views overlooking town.
• Testing the exhibitions within the Science Middle.

12. Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, British Columbia

Do you want heights? Take pleasure in sweaty palms? Relish desires of falling? If that’s the case, then we’ve bought what you want! The Capilano Suspension Bridge is considered one of Vancouver’s most visited points of interest.

This 140-meter bridge spans the Capilano River (clearly) and sits over 300 ft above a verdant inexperienced valley. Maintain your breath and strut throughout it. Worry or no worry, you’ll be glad you probably did.

The park sits inside a stupendous scenic park with snowy peaks and pointing pines. Go to on the proper time, and also you’ll be in for a deal with. It doesn’t even must be daylight.

The park is bedecked with lights on many bushes, bridges, and caverns. Have you ever ever seen Avatar? You’ll really feel like you’re in a James Cameron film; don’t flip blue with the chilly.

• Deal with: 3735 Capilano Rd, North Vancouver, BC V7R 4J1
• Map Location
• Finest time to go to: It’s open each day besides Christmas.

My highlights…

• Admiring one of the best views overlooking the rainforest by strolling throughout the adrenaline-pumping bridge.
• Discovering the Treetops Journey, it had wonderful views!
• Strolling the thrilling Cliffwalk positioned on the sting of the granite stone.

13. Whistler

House to one of many largest ski resorts in North America, Whistler is among the many prime vacationer locations in Canada for snowboarding, snowboarding, tobogganing, and ski leaping. Nonetheless, as a summer time individual, you may as well discover mountain biking and mountaineering, as the new climate is ideal.

Whistler receives over two million individuals per 12 months, with its stunning surroundings and breathtaking panoramic views this metropolis was additionally a number of the 2010 Winter Olympics. In case you are having a protracted trip, Vancouver can be an ideal vacation spot, because it’s solely underneath 2 hours from Whistler by automobile.

• Location: north of Vancouver, British Columbia
• Map Location
• Finest time to go to: December to February for excellent snowboarding circumstances. 

My highlights…

• Snowboarding! 
• Hovering by means of the forest on a zipline, the views have been unbelievable!
• Procuring within the village, there’s a nice vary of impartial boutiques.

14. Nahanni Nationwide Park Reserve

Should you’re an everyday reader, you’ll know that we love a UNESCO World Heritage web site! Should you say to most individuals ‘Canada’, that is what they consider. Wild turquoise rivers crash by means of steep-sided granite valleys. Pine bushes dot grassy plains.

And in the event you go to in the summertime, you’ll be introduced with an ocean of colour and wildflowers. This nation is actually wild and exquisite and stays just about untouched. Please keep in mind, go away solely footprints and take solely reminiscences!

• Location: Fort Smith, Unorganized, NT
• Map Location
• Finest time to go to: between June and August

My highlights…

• Paddling by means of the Nahanni River on a kayak which handed unbelievable gorges, waterfalls and pure springs!
• Climbing up the granite rocks for fantastic views of the panorama.
• Take a flightseeing tour!

15. Lunenburg, Nova Scotia

Lunenburg is a correct enigma. You’d get numerous solutions in the event you plonked somebody in the course of city and requested them the place they have been with out telling them anything. The brilliant-colored constructing, of which over 70% are unique, has a slight Scandinavian really feel.

Which is bizarre because it was initially settled by the British over 400 years in the past. Lovely Lunenburg is considered one of solely two cities which can be designated as UNESCO World Heritage websites. Should you go to, you’ll have the ability to bask in virtually each sense. It’s jam-packed with artisanal and infrequently very native fayre.

Eating places, breweries, and even the odd splash of native rum may be considerable. Flip your saturation filter to max (on the digicam, not the rum) and make your pals jealous with images of the beautiful coloured buildings! 

• Location: Nova Scotia
• Map Location
• Finest time to go to: Summer season

My favourite highlights…

• Eating on the fabulous Salt Shaker Deli and Inn which had nice harbour views.
• Taking a visit on the world-renowned racing ship champion, Bluenose II, who was undefeated for 17 years.
• Exploring the charming Outdated City Heritage District stuffed with vibrant buildings and retailers.

16. Cape Spear

Wish to go to Canada? Wish to be the primary individual in a complete continent to see the dawn? Should you answered ‘sure’ to each questions, you will need to go to the beautiful Cape Spear. It’s the most easterly level in the complete continent of North America.

Should you set off swimming from the cape, the following place you’d attain can be The British Isles. Pack a flask of one thing scorching (or perhaps chilly and sparkly) and head off on a stroll.

Other than a tremendous (if chilly) dawn over the Atlantic, you’ll be able to take a look at the Cape Spear lighthouse, which sits atop a rocky promontory. It’s fairly distant however properly well worth the journey! 

• Location: St. John’s, NL A1C 5H2
• Map Location
• Finest time to go to: June to October

My favourite highlights…

• Going for a scenic hike alongside the Blackhead Path path which supplied sensible views throughout the waters.
• Climbing up the steps on the historic lighthouse and listening to the tales of the households who lived there for generations earlier than.
• Wandering alongside the Fairly Harbor fishing village positioned near Cape Spear.

17. Lake Magog

I’ve two phrases for you. Rugged, Magnificence. And also you’ll wish to keep for greater than a day to take all of it in really, and also you received’t wish to be in a rush.

You’ll must be made from robust stuff, particularly in the event you embark on the 4-mile hike to Sunburst Peak, or you’ll be able to wander right down to the lake to chill your ft down.

It’s glacially fed and, in consequence, is crystal clear all 12 months spherical. Breathe in a deep lungful of air concerning the freshest you’ll get on the planet and admire sweeping and wild vistas.

• Location: Estrie area of Quebec.
• Map Location
• Finest time to go to: July to September

My highlights…

• Absorbing the solar rays on the seashore alongside the lake’s shores.
• Discovering the enchanting surroundings throughout Marais de la Rivière aux Cerises Park.
• Going kayaking throughout the crystal-clear waters to seize some Insta-worthy photographs.

18. Abraham Lake

Wish to see what human endeavor and nature appear to be after they work together. Try the very fairly Abraham Lake. Why do I say this? You’d be fully forgiven for considering that Abraham Lake is a pure phenomenon. (Spoiler: it isn’t).

The lake was man-made after the Saskatchewan River was dammed in 1972. Should you’d visited within the 60s, you’d most likely have stood in a grassy valley. However the human endeavor isn’t one of the best bit about Lake Abraham. One thing is occurring underneath the floor, actually.

The lake is gorgeous all 12 months spherical, with milky blue glacial water. Right here’s our recommendation. Go to in winter, deliver your digicam. As a result of deposits of varied flora on the lake mattress, enormous methane fuel bubbles are launched. These are then trapped at numerous layers underneath the frozen floor.

You’ll be introduced with a cathedral of frozen marvel as these bubbles make miles of frozen subsurface columns. All are noticed from your individual personal and distinctive viewing window.

Your greatest guess to keep away from mishaps is to rent a guided tour. Strolling on frozen lakes is cool however harmful in the event you don’t know what you’re doing.

• Location: Western Alberta
• Map Location
• Finest time to go to: early January to mid-February (to see the ice bubbles)

My favourite highlights…

• Taking a scenic drive across the lake to find one of the best views on the a number of lookout factors positioned across the space.
• Reserving a guided rock climb for a memorable expertise.
• Packing a picnic and stopping off for a brief break while admiring the picturesque surroundings.

19. Yoho Nationwide Park

Stand on prime of steep-sided gullies and breathe it in! The beautiful views listed here are to die for. Whether or not you wish to cease for the day and have a picnic or spend just a few weeks strolling to your coronary heart’s content material, the Yoho Nationwide Park has one thing for you.

Driving by means of the attractive park alone is price it, however ideally, you’ll wish to keep and admire all it affords. That is the land that point forgot; in the event you take a guided tour, you’ll have the ability to traverse tracks slicing by means of scree-sided valleys and see if you could find a fossil or two.

It’s actually unattainable to not be impressed by its measurement and scale right here. Each course you flip will take your breath away, I promise! 

• Location: Area, BC V0A 1G0
• Map Location
• Finest time to go to: July to September

My favorite highlights…

• Exploring the beautiful and vibrant Emerald Lake which is surrounded by lush forests.
• Visiting the Pure Bridge and getting an ideal Insta-worthy shot.
• Climbing to the spectacular Wapta Falls, the largest waterfall within the park which stands at 18-meters excessive.