150 Awesome Things to See, Do and Taste in Canada

This year Canada is celebrating its 150th birthday, so I thought it is only fitting to put together a list of 150 awesome things to do in this country.

I definitely haven’t seen all of Canada and there is way more to discover, so I’ve asked other travel bloggers to share a few of their favourite experiences and recommendations from across the country.

Think of this as part bucket list.

There are so many incredible things to do in this country, that surprisingly I had to leave some things off the list! Let me know in the comments if I missed your favourite adventure. Without further ado, here are 150 awesome things to see, do and taste in Canada:

British Columbia | Alberta | Saskatchewan | Manitoba | Ontario | Quebec | New Brunswick | Nova Scotia | Prince Edward Island | Newfoundland and Labrador | Nunavut | North West Territories | Yukon Territories

Across Canada

Canada is…sitting around a bonfire at a provincial park, ketchup chips in hand, marshmallows on sticks, and hearing the music waft over from a neighbouring camper (who, being Canadian, has it at a modest and respectful volume). They’re playing the Tragically Hip and suddenly you realize you are linked to all these strangers around you, not by language or religion or hockey team but by your lukewarm feelings about camping and the need to embrace it once a year for that warming gulp of impossible-to-define Canadian-ism. – Vanessa, Turnipseed Travel

Walk to Trans-Canada Trail: The ultimate way to see Canada is on your own two feet and you can with the Trans-Canada Trail which connects 15,000 communities along 24,000 km upon its completion. At the time of writing it is 93% done with a goal of finishing in 2017.

Road trip it: Being that Canada is the second largest country in the world, it is an epic country to drive through! And with every province and territory offering breathtaking scenery, a road trip may be the best way to explore! – Kevin, Wandering Wagars

It’s all about the hockey: When in Canada, go to an ice hockey game. Having been “invented” on the frozen lakes and ponds of the North, ice hockey plays a central role in Canada’s culture. – Peter, Where Is Your Toothbrush

The wildlife is unmatched: Seeing whales, orcas, porpoises, bald eagles, and other animals in the same hour on a wildlife tour. If they can all get along, so can humans! – Charles, McCool Travel

Maple syrup: If there is one thing that is synonymous with Canada, that is maple syrup. Primarily produced in the Maple Belt (Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Nova Scotia), this sweet treat can be found on dining tables all across the country.

Did you know? Canada produces about 71% of the world’s pure maple syrup (91% of it from Quebec). Each barrel is valued approximately at $1300 leading to an elaborate $18 million maple syrup heist in 2012.

See the Auroras: While Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, may be been dubbed the Aurora capital of North America, you can actually see nature’s light show from a variety of places in Canada. You best chance of success is to head away from the city lights on a clear night between fall and spring.  

Have a Caesar: Similar to a Bloody Mary. a Caesar is commonly made with vodka, Clamato juice, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and is served with a celery salt rimmed glass. However, it’s the garnish that makes this drink stand out. Typically it comes with a celery stalk and lime, but in recent years, the garnishes have gotten more elaborate as restaurants try to one-up one another – sometimes the drink even comes with a meal!

Stay up and see the midnight sun: With parts of the northern territories north of the Arctic Circle, the sun remains in the sky in the summer months, not setting. It’s the perfect excuse to get outside and continue exploring.

See the RCMP: Canadian Mounties perform the musical ride at events across the country every summer. It’s equine poetry in motion! – Cindy, Travel Bliss Now

See all the roadside attractions: I believe a road trip is the best way to see Canada. If you fly from one big city to another you miss some of the quirky sites small towns in Canada has. Some of my favourite cheesy roadside attractions that I’ve been to so far include the world’s largest pysanka (Ukrainian Easter Egg) in Vegreville, Alberta, the world’s largest Canadian goose in Wawa, Ontario and the world’s largest tomahawk in the aptly named Cut Knife, Saskatchewan. – Alouise, Take Me To the World

British Columbia

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Visit the Sunshine Coast: Move over city life, the coast is in town. Everyone visits Vancouver, locals live on the Sunshine Coast, BC. Check out boats and beers at Gibsons, yoga and beach in Roberts Creek, paddle boarding at Sechelt Inlet, the rapids of Skookumchuck narrows and lake swimming pretty much everywhere! – Gemma, Two Scots Abroad

See history at Barkerville Historic Town and Park: Head back to 1862 at Barkerville, an open-air museum depicting what life was like in the gold rush town at the height of its popularity. You can pan for gold, explore over 100 of its heritage buildings, take a town tour or experience a variety show.

Experiences Kelowna: British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley is one of our favourite places in Canada. It’s not only one of the world’s premiere wine regions, with 172 licensed world class wineries, but there are amazing fruit orchards in every direction. The beautiful valley stretches over 200 kilometres with stunning mountains, deep, clear lakes and swaths of pine forests, all of it anchored by the bustling lake city of Kelowna. You can spend the day at wineries like Kelowna’s Mission Hill, enjoying their gorgeous views and architecture, at one of the valley’s many beaches in summer or enjoy some world class skiing in winter. – Micki, The Barefoot Nomad

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Climbing the Grouse Grind: Visiting the Grouse Grind in Vancouver is a must. I’m not a seasoned hiker but it’s wonderful to walk through a natural woodland. Be sure to take plenty of water and take your time as it is a long walk. Hopefully, your view from the top will be spectacular. Unfortunately, mine was not as it was too cloudy! – Helen, Bristolian Backpacker

Flying on a seaplane into Victoria’s Inner Harbour – amazing! – Charles, McCool Travel

Hit the slopes in Whistler: Used as the backdrop for the 2010 Olympic games, hit the slopes in Whistler where a lift ticket gives you access to two mountains with over 200 marked runs, 8,171 acres of terrain, 16 alpine bowls and three glaciers.

Surf in Tofino: Hailed for its 35 kilometres of sandy beach, consistent year round temperatures and fantastic surfing conditions, Tofino is Canada’s surfing capital. Head there in the winter for the best surf, but you can catch a break any time of the year.

Hike the West Coast Trail: Dubbed the hike of a lifetime, the West Coast Trail takes you through 75 kilometres of rugged terrain as you navigate through deep gullies and steep slopes along the west coast of Vancouver Island. Widely considered one of the most gruelling treks in North America, the isolated trail follows ancient paths and paddling routes that were used for trade and travel by the First Nations.

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Sip a beer on Granville Island: In Vancouver, there are tons of breweries that you can visit to try some of the local craft beer styles. One of our favourites is on Granville Island, which is also just a really fun place to hang out. You can get there by ferry from downtown Vancouver. – Laura, Savored Journeys

Eat sushi: Vancouver’s food scene is ever evolving with new restaurants popping up to tantalize your taste buds, however, one thing remains consistent: it’s love for sushi! From budget friendly options like Sushi Itoga in the West End to mid-range options like Shiro on Cambie St. to more expensive options like sister restaurants Miku and Minami, you can plan a whole trip just on sushi.

Travel to Asia: One of my favourite things to do in summer near Vancouver, BC, is the Richmond Night Market. It’s a huge Asian-themed market with many different foods to try, like huge plates of grilled squid, steamed buns, and mango with sticky rice. – Laura, Savored Journeys

Enjoy a craft beer: Vancouver, particularly the eastern part of the city, has the largest concentration of craft breweries in Canada. Breweries such as Parallel 49, Brassneck, Bomber, Storm, & Doan’s are helping make Vancouver a must-visit destination for beer lovers. – Jonathan, Everybody Hates a Tourist

Drink your way around the Okanagan: If you like traveling for wine, the Okanagan Valley in southern British Columbia, just above the center of Washington State, has some really great wineries. The wine valley stretches along Okanagan Lake from Penticton to Kelowna. There are dozens of wineries bunched together that you can stop at for a tasting or for a wine-paired lunch. – Laura, Savored Journeys

Nanaimo bars: When in Nanaimo, you gotta eat a Nanaimo bar. This sweet treat consists of a crumb-based layer, a custard buttercream before being covered with melted chocolate. There’s even a Nanaimo Bar Trail that you can follow when you’re in the city. Can’t make it to Nanaimo? You can find these bars in bakeries around B.C. as well.

British Columbia | Alberta | Saskatchewan | Manitoba | Ontario | Quebec | New Brunswick | Nova Scotia | Prince Edward Island | Newfoundland and Labrador | Nunavut | North West Territories | Yukon Territories

Alberta

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Banff National Park: One of the most beautiful places on earth. Not only are you surrounded by the Canadian Rocky Mountains, there are dozens of pristine lakes all around, including two of the most popular: Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. – Laura, Savored Journeys

The Icefields Parkway is a wildlife paradise: While driving the Icefields Parkway between Banff and Jasper in Alberta, my husband and I have seen black bears, grizzly bears, bighorn sheep, elk and caribou. Further up past Jasper we have also seen mountain goats, moose, porcupines, bald eagles and wolves. – Cherri, Bucket List Travel Club

Follow the Dinosaur Trail – Millions of years ago, Alberta was teeming with dinosaurs. You can learn all about them and see some weird landscapes on the province’s dinosaur trail – Cindy, Travel Bliss Now

The Alberta Badlands: The Alberta Badlands is a unique geological area in the province. It’s rich with paleontological discoveries that you can see at the world famous Royal Tyrrell Museum. The small town of Drumheller has the world’s largest dinosaur (statue). There’s the ghost town of Wayne Alberta where you can visit a real wild west saloon. In the nearby hamlet of Rosebud you can see some amazing professional theatre shows. – Alouise, Take Me To the World

Head Smashed in Buffalo Jump: This well-preserved buffalo jump and UNESCO World Heritage Site is a testament to the ingenuity of the aboriginal peoples who called this area home. They understood the land and buffalo behaviour and were able to hunt by chasing the buffalo over the cliffs here.

Edmonton International Fringe Festival: Being from Edmonton this is my favourite local festival. The Edmonton International Fringe Festival is the biggest fringe festival in North America and there’s always a show at the fringe for everyone. Just go to the fringe grounds at Old Strathcona, grabbing a green onion cake (local street food you’ll find at festivals here), and watching some of the outdoor buskers makes for a great way to spend an August day. – Alouise, Take Me To the World

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Soar over majestic Rocky Mountain peaks and glaciers in a helicopter. So beautiful, it will leave you speechless. – Cindy, Travel Bliss Now

In Canada, you can stay in a palace overlooking an amazing lake…or at least you can get pretty close! The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise is one of the most romantic places we’ve ever stayed, with views to die for. For the most epic Canadian honeymoon, choose one of their lake view suites. Even if you don’t stay at the hotel, Lake Louise is definitely worth a visit. – Amy & Nathan, Two Drifters

Hiking to Little Beehive from Lake Louise, Banff: The crunch of the snow was audible underfoot as we set off up the hill from Lake Louise, leaving the tourists behind at the water’s edge. We wound our way up the track, the turquoise water of the lake below began to peek through the pine trees, revealing itself on the occasional open bend. We kept climbing past the famous Lake Agnes Tea House all the way to the top of Little Beehive where all of Lake Louise opened up below. We were perfectly alone. As the snow began to fall again, we jogged back down to the tea house where we cradled cups of hot chocolate and took in the magic around us. – Skye, The Fit Traveller

Attend the Calgary Stampede: Spanning 10 days, the world’s largest rodeo and western fair is held every year in July in Calgary. Bringing over a million visitors from all around the world, the event features a variety of rodeo events, musical performances, a midway, shopping and food.

The Gopher Hole Museum in Torrington, Alberta: Faced with skyrocketing unemployment, Torrington’s town council debated on how to drive tourists to their small community, and the result is marvellous — albeit a tad macabre. Forty-four dioramas of dead gophers engaged in everyday activities around town line the small museum’s walls, and it’s well worth the $2 entry fee. – Raymond, Man on the Lam

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Christmas in November: Get in the holiday spirit a month in advance at Christmas in November. Get cooking tips from world renowned Canadian chefs, taste delicious holiday foods and get crafty with decorations. The whole festival is set against the beautiful backdrop of the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge.

Eat your way around the Calgary Stampede: Even if you’re not a fan of the rest of the event, going to the stampede just for the food is more than worth it. Try out the latest crazy food options like deep fried Jell-O, funnel cake poutine, deep fried pork belly, and unicorn themed everything.

Alberta beef: you can’t visit Alberta without tasting Alberta raised beef!

British Columbia | Alberta | Saskatchewan | Manitoba | Ontario | Quebec | New Brunswick | Nova Scotia | Prince Edward Island | Newfoundland and Labrador | Nunavut | North West Territories | Yukon Territories

Saskatchewan

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Embrace a military tradition: Watch the Sunset Retreat Ceremony where RCMP cadets march in unison and perform drills while dressed in the iconic uniform. And while you’re there visit the RCMP Heritage Centre which brings to life the history of the RCMP through interactive displays and exhibits.

See Moose Jaw: Despite having family here I only visited this strangely named for the first time a few years ago. Moose Jaw is about 75km west of Regina (the capital of Saskatchewan) and is definitely worth a visit. Aside from a giant moose statue, this city has a lot to see and do. There’s a great local craft and arts scene. You can relax at The Temple Gardens Mineral Spa, and check out the history of the area at The Tunnels of Moose Jaw and at The Sukanen Ship Pioneer Village and Museum. – Alouise, Take Me To the World

Visit the most northerly sand dunes in the world: The Athabasca Sand Dunes, stretching 100 kilometres along the southern shores of Lake Athabasca, is home to towering dunes estimated to be over 8000 years old. Access is only via float plane and going on a guided tour is recommended.

Get lost in Big Muddy Valley: Experience the wild wild west of Canada. The northern end of the Outlaw Trail, see why legendary outlaws like Dutch Henry and the Sundance Kid came here to disappear among the sandstone ravines and cacti. Also, look out for the Aboriginal stone effigies.

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Go underground: Explore the limestone crevices at Creighton. Formed by a sea that once covered this area what remains today are miles of crevices to explore.

Walk among the crooked bush: Like something out of the Game of Thrones, a walk down the Crooked Bush of Hafford is not for the easily spooked. These aspen trees have twisted and bent upon itself lending it a particularly eerie feeling.

Paddle around Prince Albert National Park: With its numerous lakes and waterways, you can paddle around this national park. Whether you like to canoe, kayak or stand-up paddleboard, there is lots of beauty to take in.

Taste This

Saskatoon berries – A berry that lends its name to the area, you can find Saskatoon berries in desserts, jams, sauces and other snack foods.

Ukrainian food – With a large Ukrainian population, get your fill of tasty cabbage rolls, perogies and homemade sausage.

British Columbia | Alberta | Saskatchewan | Manitoba | Ontario | Quebec | New Brunswick | Nova Scotia | Prince Edward Island | Newfoundland and Labrador | Nunavut | North West Territories | Yukon Territories

Manitoba

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Polar bears in Churchill: Located on the shores of Hudson Bay in northern Manitoba, Churchill is the self-proclaimed “Polar Bear Capital Of The World” thanks to polar winds that turn the shallow water into ice early in the season. Natural Habitat’s Tundra Lodge is the perfect place to watch the hungry polar bears, who come to these shores to wait for ice to form so they can go out in search favourite favourite food: Ringed seals. –Bret & Mary, Green Global Travel

Snake viewing in Narcisse: Not for those with ophidiophobia, the Narcisse Snake Dens allows visitors to observe garter snakes wake up from hibernation in the spring to mate and then later return to hibernate in the fall.

The colour changing lake in the Lowlands: Manitoba’s Little Limestone Lake changes colours depending on the temperature due to its concentration of calcium carbonate due to the limestone deposits found underground. Its colour can range from a dull blue-grey to a brilliantly bright blue throughout the day.

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Paddle through the Caddy Lake Tunnels: These man-made tunnels, formed when the railways were being built to allow for the natural flow of water, connects Caddy Lake to North Cross Lake and South Cross Lake. From the lake, you have access to private campsites and plenty of wildlife viewing options.

Visit the Canadian Museum of Human Rights: Explore this museum in Winnipeg dedicated to human rights in Canada as well as around the world. Set in a beautiful building, the exhibits leave you feeling thoughtful and hopeful for the future.

Eat This

Fine dining on ice: Enjoy a meal celebrating local food at Raw:Almond, a pop-up restaurant located where the frozen Assiniboine and Red Rivers meet in Winnipeg.

Enjoy a Fat Boy: This burger is no ordinary burger. The patty is topped off with chili, quartered dill pickle, onions, mustard and lots of mayonnaise. It’s tall and a mess, but it’s also delicious.

British Columbia | Alberta | Saskatchewan | Manitoba | Ontario | Quebec | New Brunswick | Nova Scotia | Prince Edward Island | Newfoundland and Labrador | Nunavut | North West Territories | Yukon Territories

Ontario

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Friday Night Jazz at Toronto’s Aquarium: On the second Friday of every month, the Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada in downtown Toronto presents an evening of live jazz to accompany you while you browse the fish tanks. The music is piped through the whole space and drinks are available from cash bars. – Marie-France, Big Travel Nut

Niagara Falls: Straddling the Canadian and US borders the horseshoe-shaped Canadian Falls are awe inspiring and the power and noise of the majestic Falls have to be experienced to be believed. We were mesmerised by the stunning panorama and the force of the turquoise water plummeting over the edge of the Falls. – Elaine & David, The Whole World is a Playground

Parliament Hill: A visit to Parliament Hill is a must when in Canada’s capital region. Take a free guided tour and discover the history and art of Canada’s Parliament and don’t miss out on going to the top of the Peace Tower for a great view of the city. In the summer months you can watch a sound and light show projected on the building every evening.

The Museum of Television: I love the MZTV (Museum of Television) museum in downtown Toronto, which is all about the history of TV’s (not the programs). Bear in mind it’s only open from 2-5pm Tuesday-Friday, but offers a guided tour starting at 4 pm. – Chris, One Weird Globe

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Hiking Bruce Peninsula National Park: One of the many things I love about Canada is hiking Ontario’s Bruce Peninsula National Park. It’s full of amazing natural wonders, like the famous Grotto – a sea cave with crystal clear waters, epic views over Georgian Bay from cliff tops, and one of Canada’s best hiking trails – the Bruce Trail. – Stephanie, The World As I See It

Skate on the world’s largest skating rink: Don your skates and hit the ice on the Rideau Canal in Ottawa. Every year as the air gets crisp and the water freezes over, the Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, opens up to skaters. Running a length of 7.8 kilometres, the Rideau Canal Skateway stretches from downtown Ottawa to Dows Lake.

Chasing Waterfalls in Ontario’s Grey County: One of the things I love about Canada is its wealth of wild, untamed natural beauty. And Ontario is home to a ton of waterfalls. And my favourite place to go chasing waterfalls is in Grey County. There are small but mighty ones like Hoggs Falls and large stunning, cascading beauties like Inglis Falls. – Stephanie, The World As I See It

See Hamilton, no not the musical, but the city: Hamilton, Ontario is home to many beautiful (and walkable) neighbourhoods. One, in particular, is Locke Street – a concrete promenade full of boutique shops, delicious eateries and local services. From gelato treats to craft beer to a café for dogs – it’s a great place to support local business! So when you make your way to Hamilton, make sure you Walk the Locke! – Samantha, Expat and the City

Experience the most Southern point of Canada: At Point Pelee National Park you can stand south of the US border in Windsor, Ontario – Celesta

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Taste of the Danforth: Eat souvlaki on a stick, dance to traditional Greek folk music and mingle with 1.65 million food fans at Taste of the Danforth, Canada’s largest street party. For 25 years, in early August this annual celebration of Greek taste and culture has been taking place on Danforth Avenue in Toronto’s Greektown – Michele, A Taste for Travel

Explore the St. Lawrence neighbourhood in downtown Toronto! Try some fantastic food at the St. Lawrence market, which is one of the best food markets in the world! Pick up some Portuguese egg tarts and visit many historical landmarks within the area, such as the famous Gooderham Flatiron building pictured above. – Nancy, enSquaredAired

SOMA Chocolate Maker in the Distillery District, Toronto: While you’re wandering around the largest collection of Victorian industrial architecture in North America, make a pit stop at SOMA to buy delicious chocolate treats, and breathe in the “chocolate air”. With lucky timing, you may be able to watch them make the chocolate. – Marie-France, Big Travel Nut

The vineyards of Prince Edward County: Look no further for a truly flavourful experience! Prince Edward County, approx. 2-3 hours east of Toronto, brings farm-to-fork culinary goodness coupled with delightfully local wineries and breweries. Tour the vineyards, grab a pint of local ale, or follow the art trail supporting local artisans. You never know, you just may find that original painting you always wanted! Truly a foodie’s paradise, head to the County this Canada 150 year. It is home to the first vegan winery, the one and only organic winery in North America, and a yearly cheese festival promising the perfect accompaniments to all the local wine you are about to consume. – Janine, Fill My Passport

British Columbia | Alberta | Saskatchewan | Manitoba | Ontario | Quebec | New Brunswick | Nova Scotia | Prince Edward Island | Newfoundland and Labrador | Nunavut | North West Territories | Yukon Territories

Quebec

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See a show: Attending Cirque du Soleil in its birthplace, with narrative in French and customers speaking French (so this USA family had no idea what anyone was saying). – Charles, McCool Travel

Soak in a spa: Sink into bliss at an outdoor Nordic-style spa, where a circuit of saunas, steam baths, outdoor Jacuzzis and icy waterfall pools are meant to relax, renew and revive. A favourite in Quebec, but increasingly popular right across Canada, these outdoor spas are often located in spectacular natural settings. One of the best is the eco-friendly La Source Spa in Rawdon, Quebec. Surrounded by forest and the rocky walls of Mont Pontbriand, it’s just an hour’s drive from Montreal. – Carol, Wandering Carol

The way Basilique Notre Dame in Montreal lights up at night! – Jonathan, The Royal Tour

See one of the largest natural arches in the world: At the tip of the Gaspe Peninsula in the province of Quebec sits the beautiful town of Perce. The town is home to Perce Rock, and measuring 438 metres long (1545 feet) by 88 metres high (288 feet) it is one of the largest natural arches in the world! – Kevin, Wander Wagars

Carnaval de Québec: There’s no better place to celebrate Canada’s longest season than at the Québec Winter Carnival. Rub shoulders with the legendary snowman Bonhomme, race down an icy toboggan run, then raise a glass to French Canadian culture with a sweet alcoholic drink known as caribou. Cheers to winter! Rhonda, Travel Yes Please

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Get chilly: It’s not in any country that you can walk into a hotel made of ice, casually lean at ice bar counter and get a cocktail served in an ice glass. In Quebec, Canada, you can do just that! Hôtel de Glace in Quebec offers this unique experience during winter months. You can stay overnight in one of the rooms or simply take a tour around the hotel while sipping on your delicious drink. – Yulia, The Foodie Miles

Get down: Going underground Montreal – wow! – Charles, McCool Travel

Bike Montreal: Montreal is one of the most bikeable cities I’ve ever been to, and there’s nothing more fun than renting a Bixi bike and cycling all around town! – Allison, Eternal Arrival

Camping in Mont Tremblant, Quebec, Canada: One of our most memorable experiences in Canada was camping in Mont Tremblant National Park, Quebec. Located about 80 miles Northwest of Montreal, the park makes for an easy weekend excursion from the city and spoils its visitors with pristine mountain scenery, rivers rushing through thick forests and a plethora of activities for the outdoor enthusiast. Stepping out of our tent, with just the sound of the birds and the soft bite of the morning air on our faces, we felt a million miles away from civilization and one with the gorgeous Canadian outdoor: it was an unforgettable moment! – Marta, Learning Escapes

Sleep in history: I love the way Quebec City has such special places to stay while you’re exploring the beautiful UNESCO World Heritage old town. I’ll never forget staying in Le Monastere des Augustines, which is built on the site of the continent’s first hospital north of Mexico and is focused on holistic healing and health, and also loved my time at the first “francoresponsible” hotel in America the Hôtel Château Laurier Québec. And of course, no trip to Quebec City is complete without visiting the most photographed hotel in the world, the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac. – Amanda, Adventures All Around

Taste This

Poutine: a Canadian’s answer to a late night out on a town. Crispy fries, squeaky cheese curds and topped off with a healthy ladle or two of gravy, this is comfort food at its best.

Three words: smoked meat sandwiches. Schwartz’s Deli in Montreal has some of the most amazing smoked meat sandwiches you could ever ask for — and this is coming from a former New Yorker who loves a good Jewish deli. – Allison, Eternal Arrival

A drink at the ice hotel: One of the coolest–if not the coolest–things to do in Canada is chill at the Ice Hotel. You can really cool off with a cocktail at the bar or warm up a bit with a dip in the hot tub.  –  Carole, Berkeley and Beyond

A Quebecois twist on a meat pie: The tourtière hails from the province of Quebec. Usually made with pork and mixed with other meats in a double crust, its name comes from the dish that it is cooked in.

The markets in Montreal are amazing: Marché Jean-Talon and the Atwater both have fantastic produce, local cheeses, and delicious prepared food options. – Allison, Eternal Arrival

Visit a sugar shack: Canada is maple-licious! Visit a sugar shack in the spring time to enjoy maple syrup on crêpes and pancakes and sticky maple taffy. – Cindy, Travel Bliss Now

British Columbia | Alberta | Saskatchewan | Manitoba | Ontario | Quebec | New Brunswick | Nova Scotia | Prince Edward Island | Newfoundland and Labrador | Nunavut | North West Territories | Yukon Territories

New Brunswick

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See the reversing rapids: What happens when the Bay of Fundy and Saint John River meet? You have the unique phenomenon of the reversing rapids. As the tide rises and falls, the flow of the river changes with it.

Hopewell Rocks – Located on the shores of the Bay of Fundy at Hopewell Cape, visitors can walk through the unique formations created as a result of erosion over thousands of years. Home of some of the world’s highest tides, you can kayak through those same formations.

See the season’s changing colours: The fall colours are guaranteed to be Instagram-worthy in much of Canada, but check them out in New Brunswick, a province known as “east of ordinary” – Cindy, Travel Bloss Now

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Cross the longest covered bridge in the world: This 390-meter bridge hails back to 1901. Today the Hartland Covered Bridge is a National and Provincial Historic Site.

Hike, bike or drive the Fundy Trail Parkway: Enjoy over 20 lookouts and observation areas as you make your way through the UNESCO-designated Fundy Biosphere Reserve.

Did you know? New Brunswick is the only officially bilingual province? Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms specifically recognizes that English and French are the official languages of New Brunswick.

Taste This

Be sweet on Ganong: Canada’s oldest independently owned candy company can be found in St. Stephen. Taste old fashioned chocolate varieties that have been made for over half a century at the Ganong Chocolatier Shop and pick up a couple bars of their longest lasting chocolate bar, the Pal-o-Mine as a souvenir.

Taste history at Saint John City Market: Canada’s oldest continuing farmer’s market dates back to 1785. The market takes up a city block and you can pick up everything you need for a picnic. While there, stop at Solcum & Ferris to taste their famous Dulse – a salty dried seaweed.

Try the other poutine: While most people equate poutine with the fries variety found in Quebec, there’s another type of poutine that can be found in Acadia: poutine râpée. Also made from potato, poutine râpée are boiled dumplings of grated potatoes with a salt pork filling.

British Columbia | Alberta | Saskatchewan | Manitoba | Ontario | Quebec | New Brunswick | Nova Scotia | Prince Edward Island | Newfoundland and Labrador | Nunavut | North West Territories | Yukon Territories

Nova Scotia

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See the Bluenose II: The Bluenose was a sailing schooner that no one could beat in a race. It’s featured on the Canadian dime and you can see the Bluenose II in Lunenberg, Nova Scotia. – Cindy, Travel Bliss Now

Explore Lunenberg: The best surviving planned British colonial town in North America, Lunenberg is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander along its waterfront, check out the brightly coloured buildings and explore the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic.

Experience history at Fortress of Louisbourg:– Step back into the 1700s and get a glimpse into one of North America’s busiest seaports of its time. Founded by the French in 1713, today this one-quarter reconstruction of the French town allows visitors to see what life was like.

Follow the light at Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse: See one of the most photographed lighthouses in Nova Scotia. When you arrive you’ll see why: the red and white lighthouse sits overlooking a large bay commanding attention from every direction.

See the fossils at Joggins Fossil Centre: This UNESCO World Heritage Site gives you access to 15 kilometres of fossils depicting life during the “Coal Age.”

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Drive the Cabot Trail – This 298 km road takes you along the coast of Cape Breton Island giving you beautiful views ocoastlinet line and access to many of the island’s attractions. While you’re there, be sure to walk the Skyline Trail as well.

Kayak the world’s highest tides – Go kayaking at Cape Chignecto Provincial Park with Nova Shores home to the world’s highest tides

Taste This

Lobster: – “If you haven’t eaten Nova Scotia lobster in Nova Scotia, then you haven’t really eaten lobster.” a bold proclamation from Tourism Nova Scotia, but it’s true. Their Lobster Road Trip will have you covered all across the province.

The Halifax Donair: – This is no regular donair. The donair served up in Halifax has a base of beef and is topped off with a sweet donair sauce made from evaporated milk, vinegar, garlic powder and sugar. The love for this dish is so strong, it became Halifax’s official food.

Blueberries: – Nova Scotia is blueberry crazy. From its Wild Blueberry Harvest Festival in central Nova Scotia to the blueberry grunt – a Nova Scotian dessert of stewed blueberries with sweet dumplings – it’s clear the love for these delicious berries is strong. Oxford, Nova Scotia has even been named the “Wild Blueberry Capital of Canada”.

British Columbia | Alberta | Saskatchewan | Manitoba | Ontario | Quebec | New Brunswick | Nova Scotia | Prince Edward Island | Newfoundland and Labrador | Nunavut | North West Territories | Yukon Territories

Prince Edward Island

Canada’s smallest province is famous for its lobster suppers, red sand beaches and Anne of Green Gables. – Cindy, Travel Bliss Now

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Live Anne of Green Gables: This beloved children’s classic comes to life on Prince Edward Island at the Green Gables National Historic Site. See the places and people that author Lucy Maud Montgomery was inspired by and imagine yourself in Avonlea.

Explore the “Birthplace of Canada”: In Charlottetown, visit the Province House where leaders met at the Charlottetown Conference which laid the foundation for Canadian Confederation.

Enjoy traditional Celtic music – Embrace the province’s Celtic culture by taking attending a ceilidhs (Celtic for musical gathering). Throughout the summer you can spot music festivals featuring Celtic music.

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Go lobster fishing: Hop on a boat with Top Notch Charters and haul in your own lobster. Learn about what life is like on the water, have you hand at steering the boat and learn all about lobster in PEI.

Drive across the Confederation Bridge – To get to Prince Edward Island, you can drive across the engineering marvel that is the Confederation bridge. This curved, 12.9 km long bridge that connects New Brunswick to PEI and is the longest bridge in the world that crosses ice-covered water.

Walk or bike the Confederation Trail – With 435 km of trail to explore, this trail extends the length of PEI taking you through small villages and large cities.

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Mussels – Did you know PEI produces 80% of the mussels in Canada? The ocean climate and tidal patterns makes them consistently tasty and they’re considered to be some of the best in the world.

Sit down to a New Glasgow Lobster Supper – This island tradition will have you donning a bib, tucking into a lobster (or other entree) of your choice, and making new friends at your long table. All meals come with your choice of appetizer, salad and dessert, including their famous “mile-high” lemon meringue pie.

Enjoy an ice cream at Cows Creamery – It’s the smell of the waffle cones that hit you first. Then you see all the punny cow themed clothing and accessories. The ice cream is rich and delicious, handmade slowly from an old fashioned recipe. While you can find Cows Creamery in select cities across Canada (and even one in Beijing), it’s had its beginnings on the Cavendish Boardwalk in PEI.

Potatoes – When you’ve had enough seafood, turn towards the province’s potatoes. PEI’s unique red, iron-rich soil is the perfect environment to grow potatoes.

British Columbia | Alberta | Saskatchewan | Manitoba | Ontario | Quebec | New Brunswick | Nova Scotia | Prince Edward Island | Newfoundland and Labrador | Nunavut | North West Territories | Yukon Territories

Newfoundland and Labrador

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See the ‘bergs at Iceberg Alley: Each year along the North and East Coast of Newfoundland, thousands of icebergs flow along the shores. Many of them are visible from shore, some even parking right off the coast, making this area known as Iceberg Alley. – Kevin, Wander Wagars

Fogo Island: Off the shores of Newfoundland and Labrador, Fogo Island is its largest island. Slow down and enjoy the pace of its various fishing villages, check out the brightly coloured houses, and tour the Fogo Island Gallery responsible for bringing new life to the struggling island community.

L’Anse aux Meadows: This UNESCO World Heritage site is a Viking settlement on the northernmost tip of Newfoundland dating backing to the year 1000. The site provides evidence that contact was made by Europeans prior to Columbus’ voyage.

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Stand at the easternmost spot in the Western hemisphere: At Cape Spear, the entirety of the western hemisphere is behind you as you face towards the open ocean. Nearby is the Cape Spear Lighthouse, the oldest surviving one in the province, there since the mid-1800s.

Walk the Skerwink Trail: This 5.3-kilometre trail takes you along the coast and waters giving you views of sea stacks, sea caves and arches, icebergs, and bald eagles. In June and July, you can even spot humpbacks in the water.

Hike the East Coast Trail: Running along the East Coast of Newfoundland, this 540-kilometre hiking trail starts in St. John’s and runs south to Cappahayden. Along the way, you’ll pass through abandoned settlements, two active archaeological dig sites, a 50-metre suspension bridge, beautiful views and wildlife to match.

Taste This

Fish ‘n Brewis – This meal came out of a need to have food last over long fishing voyages and consists of salt cod and hardtack – a hard, dry bread. Both are soaked overnight in water before being boiled separately and served together typically with scrunchions – fried pieces of salted pork fat.

Chips, Dressing and Gravy: This fries dish uses dressing (aka the things you would stuff your turkey with in these parts) – a mixture of breadcrumbs, butter, onion and summer savoury – before being drenched in gravy. It’s like Thanksgiving meets poutine.

Jiggs Dinner: Deriving its name from a cartoon strip where the main character named Jiggs enjoyed a similar meal, a Jiggs Dinner is a boiled meal of salt beef, potatoes, turnips, pease pudding, carrots, and cabbage typically served with a roast.

Pineapple Crush: This particular flavour of Crush soft drink hails from this part of the country. While you can find it elsewhere in speciality shops, it’s a drink of choice for many.

British Columbia | Alberta | Saskatchewan | Manitoba | Ontario | Quebec | New Brunswick | Nova Scotia | Prince Edward Island | Newfoundland and Labrador | Nunavut | North West Territories | Yukon Territories

Nunavut

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See narwhals in Pond Inlet: The hamlet of Pond Inlet is famous for the large pods of narwhals that pass through its waters. These unicorns of the sea live year-round in the Arctic, but summer is the best time for viewing expeditions as they move closer to the shore.

Inuksuk National Historic Site of Canada: See over 100 inuksuit standing tall at the Inuksuk National Historic Site of Canada located on Foxe Peninsula on Baffin Island. The Inuksuit, some as tall as 6 to 7 feet, were built by indigenous people and are an expression of the ingenuity and artistry of the Inuit

Watch beluga whales in Cunningham Inlet: Every summer, thousands of beluga whales head to Cunningham Inlet to raise their young, molt their skin and play in the water, making it one of the best places in the world to watch beluga whales in the wild.

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Cross the Akshayuk Pass in Auyuittuq National Park: The 97-kilometre mountain pass was a traditional Inuit travel corridor that today, welcomes hikers and skiers drawn to the challenging terrain of Auyuittuq National Park. For those with less time or without the desire for a multi-day hike, day hikes to the Arctic Circle are also possible from Pangnirtung. Remember to register and attend a mandatory orientation session before entering the park.

Go ice fishing: The waters of Nunavut are full of fish from Arctic char to lake trout. For the Inuit, fishing has always been a way of getting food.

Stand at the edge of a floe: Stand at the edge of these massive pieces of ice floating on the surface of the ocean and see the sea spread out before you.

Taste This

Bannock: this unleavened bread dough is cooked slowly in a frying pan, baked or boiled which allows for easy transport for long journeys.

Country food: Approximately 85% of the Nunavut’s population is of Inuit descent so much of their food culture derives from their culture. Country food means anything that comes from the land including caribou, musk ox, seal, whale, seafood, Arctic hare, Arctic char and ptarmigan. Country food is typically served frozen and/or raw and dipped in a variety of sauces.

Foraged wild plants: Wild plants like wildflowers, mosses, lichens and berries are picked in the summer months to compliment the typically protein heavy diet.

British Columbia | Alberta | Saskatchewan | Manitoba | Ontario | Quebec | New Brunswick | Nova Scotia | Prince Edward Island | Newfoundland and Labrador | Nunavut | North West Territories | Yukon Territories

Northwest Territories

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Visit Yellowknife: Located on the shores of the Great Slave Lake, Yellowknife is the provincial capital. Stop at the Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre to learn about the arts, culture, industry and history of the territory.

See the bison: One of Canada’s biggest herd of free-roaming bison lives in Wood Buffalo National Park. The park is also the nesting habitat for endangered whooping cranes and home to the world’s largest beaver dam.

SnowKing Winter Festival: Held annually in March, the SnowKing Winter Festival features a large castle turn stage built from snow. The festival aims to celebrate the arts and music of the north in a unique winter environment.

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Explore Nahanni National Park Reserve – From the 96 meters tall Virginia Falls to the spectacular views from Ram Plateau, Nahanni National Park Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is full of adventure. Running along the Nahanni River, the park is filled with deep canyons, huge waterfalls, hot springs and a cave system.

Did you know? The Virginia Falls in Nahanni National Park Reserve is twice the high of Niagara Falls.

Sail the Northwest Passage: Follow in the footsteps of explorers and sailing the Northwest Passage with Adventure Canada. Spot icebergs and wildlife like polar bears and narwhals, go hiking in the tundra and learn about the Arctic’s history and Inuit culture.

Taste This

Wildcat Cafe: This iconic eatery in Yellowknife is where “the world comes to dine.” Set in a rustic log cabin representative of the mining camp style of early Yellowknife, the restaurant was first opened in 1937.

Fish of the Arctic: The waters and lakes of the Northwest Territories are cold and clear allowing access to fish like arctic char, arctic grayling, great northern pike, lake trout, pickerel and lake whitefish

Birch syrup: Darker and with a more intense flavour than maple syrup, birch syrup is harvested from birch trees. You can use it in the same fashion as maple syrup as a topper for pancakes or waffles or for sauces for fish or meats.

British Columbia | Alberta | Saskatchewan | Manitoba | Ontario | Quebec | New Brunswick | Nova Scotia | Prince Edward Island | Newfoundland and Labrador | Nunavut | North West Territories | Yukon Territories

Yukon

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Visit Whitehorse: If you enjoy a good hike in vast, remote and untouched forests, Whitehorse is a great place to use as a base. It’s the most north-western stop on the Greyhound bus service and on the journey up from Vancouver there’s plenty of wildlife spotting to be done. Grizzly bears, brown bears, black bears, bison, moose, you name it. And how about a free over-night stay at the parking lot of the local Walmart complimentary with any purchase? – Victor, Victor’s Travels

Check out the world’s tiniest desert: Stop by Carcross where at the bottom of a glacial lake, sandy dunes of less than a square mile welcome you.

Explore Dawson City: The centre of the Klondike Gold Rush, today Dawson City is full of history and homage to its past. Walk through the wooden boardwalk or try your hand at one of Canada’s first gambling halls or take in a Vaudeville Show at the Palace Grand.

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Soak in the pools at Takhini Hot Springs: 30 minutes from Whitehorse, soak in the mineral waters of the Takhini Hot Springs. The springs are open late so you can relax in the waters under the twinkling lights of stars.

Hike the Chilkoot Trail: See what it was like to be on the hunt for gold as you hike the Chilkoot Trail – a major access route during the gold rush. This challenging 53 km trail takes you from Dyea, Alaska o Bennett, B.C., passing through the Coast Mountains and was the route gold seekers took during the gold rush.

Did you know? During the gold rush, gold seekers heading to Dawson City were required to bring goods over the pass. The list included 400 pounds of flour, 100 pounds of beans and 100 pounds of sugar. The average man took about 40 trips and at least 3 months to haul his ton of supplies to Bennett, B.C.

Taste This

Sourtoe Cocktail: Have you ever wanted to kiss a preserved toe? You can at the Sourdough Saloon where a dehydrated toe is dropped in your drink. All you need to do is remember this mantra: “you can drink it fast, you can drink it slow, but your lips have gotta touch the toe.”

Morel mushrooms: There’s a new kind of gold rush in the Yukon these days. These prized types of mushrooms can be commonly found in areas a year following a forest fire.

Berries: Cranberries are commonly found across the Yukon Territory. Other berries that can be spotted are cloudberries (aka bakeapples in some parts of Canada) and soapberries. All of these are used in baked goods, jams and desserts.

So there you have it. What did I miss? Let me know in the comments!

P.S. 25 Things You Didn’t Know About Canada & 9 Reasons Why I Love Canada and Why You Should Too

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