45

Things to do in Canada

One of the best group activities to do in Canada is go rafting in Banff. No matter if you are a beginner or a seasoned rafter, you can always go white water rafting in Banff. The Class III and Class II rapids and picturesque float sections here in Banff make it suitable for you to enjoy white water rafting like never before.

The rafters will likely be motivated by the 24 kilometers rafting stretch and 28 rapids that make Banff the perfect destination for rafting. While you enjoy rafting here with your gang, you will not only feel the unfathomable adrenaline rush, but will also soak in the virgin natural beauty of this place.

Location: Alberta, Canada

One of the most famous things to do in Canada is pay a visit to the magnificent Niagara Falls. While you are at the waterfall, marvel at the crystal clear water cascading from a massive altitude of around 188 feet above sea level. Hear the roar of the water falling at a whopping speed of around 20 to 30 mph.

You can either view the waterfall standing on the observation decks or take a boat and explore the falls up close. If you have time, you can also take a stroll through the lush Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens.

Location: Ontario, Canada

One of the most offbeat things to do in Canada is take an exploration tour of the mystic Old Quebec. You can enjoy a delightful food tour in the city, sampling a variety of cuisines and coming across new people. You can also visit the iconic landmarks of this place, including The Citadelle, Musee du Fort, Chateau Frontenac, Augustine's Monastery, Musee des Ursulines, Palace Royale, and Morrin Centre.

You can also enjoy shopping for pasta, jams, oils, maple syrup, and Quebec wines. Keeping the best for the last, you may end your tour with a romantic ferry ride across the St Lawrence River.

Location: Quebec City, Canada

One of the most favorite activities to do in Canada for all travelers is northern lights hunting in the city of Whitehorse, which is considered to be the perfect destination for enjoying a breathtaking northern lights show. You can get the best view of the aurora borealis during the initial weeks of the winter season, between 10 PM and 3 AM, when the sky is clear, dark, and moonless.

You are also recommended to head towards the outskirts of the city of Whitehorse, far from the obstructing city lights,

Location: Yukon, Canada

One of the best adventure things to do in Canada is enjoy skiing in Whistler, which is counted among the top ski destinations of the world. Here, you will get the opportunity to choose from more than 200 marked runs, spread across a terrain of 8,171 acres.

The cool atmosphere and the powdery snow will combine to offer you an unforgettable skiing experience here in Whistler. After your skiing session, you can also enjoy some well-chilled beer at one of the cafes, featuring a casual and relaxed atmosphere.

Location: Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

It is a big sin to leave Canada without meeting the cute Polar Bears. To see the polar bears up close, you need to visit Churchill. On your polar bear safari in Churchill, you will be able to see these fascinating bears scraping the ground and walking slowly with curious eyes.

It is not surprising to see a polar bear coming up to your Tundra Buggy and peeping into the windows, standing on the hind legs. You can also click some great pictures of the animals as you enjoy your safari ride across their habitat.

Location: Manitoba, Canada

One of the most off-centric activities to do in Canada is taking an exploration tour of the dagger-shaped archipelago of Haida Gwaii, which is a conglomeration of a total of 450 islands. One of the main attractions of this huge archipelago is the breathtaking Gwaii Haanas National Park.

This island also protects cedar and spruce forests and has bountiful wildlife including bears and bald eagles. The marine-protected water is home to sea lions, sea otters, orcas, and whales. Another prime attraction of this place is the UNESCO World Heritage site of SGang Gwaay, which shelters intricately carved age-old poles.

Location: British Columbia, Canada

One of the most couple-friendly things to do in Canada is to spend a romantic night at Hôtel De Glace In Québec. While you are here, take time to admire the architecture of this hotel, which is made using 40,000 tons of snow and 500 tons of ice.

You can also check out the Grand Hall, the big slide, the ice bar, and the chapel and stay in one of the themed suites. Enjoy some signature cocktails served in an ice glass, which will add to your unique experience at this hotel.

Location: 2280 Boulevard Valcartier, Saint-Gabriel-de-Valcartier, QC G0A 4S0, Canada

If you are a culture lover, one of the most recommended activities to do in Canada for you is go enjoy the best jazz festival of the world, the Montreal Jazz Festival. The very popular Festival International de Jazz de Montréal entered the Guinness World Record back in 2004 as the biggest jazz festival of the world.

You will be lured by the grandeur of this festival, which features more than 3,000 renowned artists from over 30 countries. You can enjoy spectacular live outdoor performances and concerts, dancing to the energetic rhythm of this boisterous festival.

Location: Montreal, Quebec, Canada

One of the most romantic things to do in Canada is to take your beloved on a cruise ride through the picturesque Rideau Canal of Ontario. Cruising across the Rideau Canal is an amazing experience as this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a conglomeration of serene lakes, pictorial rivers, and 45 locks.

As you cruise across the canal, you can soak in the mesmerizing water panorama and feel the fresh cool breeze kiss your face and make you fall in love all over again. You can also enjoy the awe-inspiring sunset and relish good food and drinks on the water.

Location: Ontario, Canada

If you love nature and wine then one of the best activities to do in Canada is to head to the picturesque Okanagan Valley to get a taste of both. You can take a walk through this verdant valley and soak in the breathtaking sunset views, as you sample some great wines.

There are hundreds of famous wineries in this valley that let you taste premium whiskeys, gin, and the finest Canadian wines and learn about the process of their production. If you are a non-drinker, you can relish flavourful pumpkin pie and moreish apple juice.

Location: British Columbia, Canada

One of the most family-friendly things to do in Canada is visiting the famous Cape Breton Highlands National Park. While you are here, you can spend time exploring the bountiful flora and fauna of this place and soak in the breathtaking views of the picturesque mountains and serene ocean.

You can also trek the one-third part of the stunning Cabot Trail that lies within this park. You can also engage in a myriad of other adrenaline-fueled activities available in the Cape Breton Highlands National Park including swimming, cycling, and fishing.

Location: Ingonish, Nova Scotia, Canada

Taking an exploration tour of the 50 meters deep Maligne Canyon in the Jasper National Park, is one of the most suggested activities to do in Canada for adventure enthusiasts and backpackers. You can explore this fascinating landmark by traversing through a total of six bridges.

Perched at an elevation of over 50 meters, the second bridge happens to be the loftiest point in this entire canyon. The third bridge lets you enjoy photography and soak in the views of a cascading waterfall. The Maligne Canyon offers the adrenaline seekers a myriad of thrilling activities, including trekking, boat riding, nature walks, and wildlife spotting.

Location: Jasper, AB T0E 1E0, Canada

If you are a literature buff and have always fantasized about the 1908 kid’s novel of Anne of Green Gables by Lucy Maud Montgomery, then paying a visit to this majestic heritage building will surely be one of the most exciting things to do in Canada for you.

While you are at the well-kept Green Gables House, marvel at this spectacular landmark, which formed an inspiration for the imaginary Cuthbert farm in the novel. You can tour the interior of this building and check out the lush and peaceful area around this property.

Location: Prince Edward Island, Gulf of St. Lawrence, Canada

If you want to enjoy a day out filled with a host of interesting activities to do in Canada, head to the very popular Prince Edward Island National Park. Here, you can spend your time enjoying sunbathing and swimming on the various supervised beaches. You can also take a hiking tour or go cycling through the well-marked trails.

You can even check out the rare 10,000 years old archaeological findings and rich flora and fauna. In the evening, you can also enjoy camping with your friends at the PEI National Park.

Location: Dalvay by the Sea, PE C0A 1P0, Canada

One of the most sought after things to do in Canada among avid trekkers is go hiking through the 75 kilometers long West Coast trail. This trial will take you through a breathtaking indegenous forest and picturesque white sand beaches.

This challenging trail will require you to pass through difficult terrains with mud pools, cable cars, bridges, and ladders. On your hiking tour, you can spot tidal pools, colourful flora, cougars, black bears, and umpteen varieties of marine animals like grey whales and seals.

Location: Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

One of the most thrilling activities to do in Canada is to try the EdgeWalk at the stunning CN Tower, which is considered to be the highest circular hands-free walkway in the world. Walking on a 1.5 meters broad ledge, at an altitude of around 1168 feet above the sea level will surely give you an unfathomable adrenaline rush.

With elastic suspensions tied to the body of the participants, doing the Edgewalk is one of the best things to do in Canada for adventure lovers of all age groups.

Location: 290 Bremner Blvd, Toronto, ON M5V 3L9, Canada

Timing: Thursday to Monday - 10 AM to 6 PM; Closed on Tuesday and Wednesday

One of the most mind-boggling things to do in Canada is taking a walk over the stunning Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. While walking over this 450 feet long wobbly bridge, you can learn about the nature, history, and culture of this place.

You will also be able to soak in the spectacular views of the picturesque Capilano River and breathtaking rainforest vegetation, while walking through this series of platforms, bridges, and stairs. You can also find interactive exhibits here, showcasing the significance of conserving water.

Location: 3735 Capilano Rd, North Vancouver, BC V7R 4J1, Canada

Timing: 10 AM to 6 PM

One of the most-loved activities to do in Canada during the summer season is zip lining at Cypress Hills. You will zoom through the dense pine plantations of Cypress Hills at an altitude of around 20 to 45 feet above sea level, with the help of a zip line. Your entire body will be harnessed to the zip line and you will also be given a climbing helmet, which will make this activity totally safe for you.

Location: 3 Pine Ave, Maple Creek, SK S0N 1N0, Canada

No matter if you are a seasoned surfer or a mere beginner, surfing in the renowned the surf capital of Canada, Tofino totally remains as one of the top things to do in Canada for everyone. Once you are at this gorgeous coastal town, you will realize that the incredible waves and the cool coastal breeze make it a perfect surfing destination. You will get a host of stunning surfing destinations to choose from in Tofino, including Cox Bay,  Chesterman Beach, and Long Beach.

Location: Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada

One of the most intriguing things to do in Canada is exploring the mystic sea caves in St, Martins. Upon reaching the village of St. Martins, you will learn that the sea caves are the result of the continuously changing tidal cycle of the Bay of Fundy, which is considered to have the world’s highest tides.

Since the high tides submerge these caves completely under the crystal clear bay waters, you can walk through the red caves during the low tides when the landscape becomes more scenic and vibrant.

Location: Bay of Fundy, Saint John County, New Brunswick, Canada

If you are a wind enthusiast, one of the most suggested things to do in Canada for you is go kitesurfing at the Magdalen Islands. While you are here, you will realize that the vast sandy beaches and the steady strong winds make this archipelago an unarguably perfect kitesurfing destination in the country. If you are a beginner, you will find many flat and shallow lagoons to practice kitesurfing.

Location: Magdalen Islands, St. Lawrence, Quebec, Canada

If you want to view the best icebergs, you need to head to Newfoundland without a second thought. You will love to float through the iceberg alley and its massive size will leave you amazed. The water here is so clear that you can drink them straight away while you float through the alley.

You can also spot various types of enormous iceberg chunks flowing along the iceberg alley, including Tabular icebergs, Blocky icebergs, Wedged icebergs, Dry rock icebergs, and Dome icebergs.

Pay a visit to the brilliantly architectured Parliament of Canada, which is a renowned national government center. Take sufficient time to marvel in awe at the stunning Gothic Revival style architectural design of this majestic building.

You can check out the three important buildings - the East Block, the West Block, & the Centre Block - of this structure, which stands overlooking the picturesque River Ottawa. When you go out to the open grounds surrounding the main building, you can witness the beautiful statues of the renowned political personalities of the country.

Location: 111 Wellington St, Ottawa, ON K1A 0A9, Canada

Timing: 9 AM to 5 PM

One of the best things to do in Canada for adventure enthusiasts is enjoy spotting the fascinating Grizzly Bears at the Amazon of the North, the Great Bear Rainforest. In order to encounter the bears here, you need to be patient and utilize your sound tracking skills.

You can also soak in the 1,000 years old cedars, stunning glacier-cut fjords, verdant moss-clad mountains, and serene dark waters, while you are in search of the cute Grizzly Bears. You can also spot coastal gray wolves, Sitka deer, mountain goats, and cougars in the Great Bear Rainforest.

Location: Kitimat-Stikine C (Part 2), BC, Canada

One of the most sought after things to do in Canada for leisure seekers is to go unwind and relax at the breathtaking Stanley Park, which is considered to be the largest and oldest urban park in Vancouver. While you are chilling in the laid-back environment of this park, you can soak in the mesmerizing views of the majestic mountains, lush trees, mystic trails, and rich wildlife. You can also ride the miniature train and see the Vancouver Aquarium.

Location: Vancouver, BC V6G 1Z4, Canada

Timing: 9 AM to 5 PM

If you are a shopaholic, one of the unarguably best things to do in Canada for you is taking a shopping spree at the bustling Saint John City Market, which is considered to be the oldest farmer’s market of the country. On your visit to this market, you can shop your heart out for handmade local crafts, coffee, and fresh seafood, blueberries, baked items, maple syrup, fruits, wine, and cheese

Location: 47 Charlotte St, Saint John, NB E2L 2H8, Canada

Timing: 7.30 AM to 6 PM, Closed on Sunday

One of the most kids-friendly things to do in Canada is to pay a visit to the much famed Royal Tyrrell Museum. On your visit to this place, spend some generous amount of time marveling at the 40 dinosaur skeletons mounted here and the 130,000 fossils preserved in this museum.

You can witness the specimens of Albertosaurus, Tyrannosaurus rex, Triceratops, and Stegosaurus. The Royal Tyrrell Museum will also let you learn the 3.9 billion years old history of the planet.

Location: 1500 N Dinosaur Trail, Drumheller, AB T0J 0Y0, Canada

Price: $19 for adults, $14 for senior citizens, $10 for children, free for infants below 6 years

Timing: 9 AM to 9 PM

Pay a visit to the picturesque Emerald Lake, lying in the famous Yoho National Park, in the Canadian Rockies. Soak in the panoramic views of the breathtaking forested banks and the majestic President Range. You can take a serene walk through the 3.2 miles easy walking trail surrounding the lake. While you can enjoy backcountry skiing, cross country skiing, and snowshoeing during the winters, you can go canoeing on the lake during the summers.

Location: Yoho National Park, British Columbia, Canada

Timings: May to June - 10 AM to 5 PM, July to August - 9 AM to 7 PM, September: 10 AM to 5 PM

If you want some peaceful time away from the hustle and bustle of the chaotic city, head to the Butchart Gardens, which was declared as a  National Historic Site of Canada back in 2004. You can stroll through the themed gardens, soaking in the stunning fountains and exotic plants.

You can take casual walks and click some great pictures in the popular gardens here, including the Japanese Garden, the Rose Garden, the Sunken Garden, the Mediterranean Garden, and the Italian Garden.

Location: 800 Benvenuto Ave, Brentwood Bay, BC V8M 1J8, Canada

Price: $3.50 + tax for adults, $2.50 + tax for youth, $1 + tax for children

Timing: 9 AM to 4 PM

One of the most spiritual things to do in Canada is to seek blessings at the world-famous Notre Dame Basilica Cathedral. While you are at this cathedral, take sufficient time to admire its Neoclassical architectural design. You can also soak in the intricate detailing and gorgeous artistry of the interior part of the Notre Dame Basilica Cathedral.

Location: 16 Rue De Buade, Québec, QC G1R 4A1, Canada

Price: Free

Timing: Monday to Friday - 8 AM to 4:30 PM, Saturday - 8 AM to 4 PM, Sunday - 12:30 PM to 4 PM

If you are seeking a perfect vacation in Canada, you can never miss out on visiting the picturesque Cavendish Beach. A visit to this beach offers you the chance to engage in a myriad of thrilling water activities, including deep-sea fishing, kiteboarding, swimming, and kayaking.

You can also unwind on the pristine shore with your sweetheart and soak in the breathtaking sunset views or camp by the sea under the starry night sky. You can also take a shopping spree and buy clothing, artworks, and potteries.

Location: Prince Edward Island, Canada

It is a sin to leave Canada without trying the iconic Bagel of Montreal. You will be amazed by the supreme taste of these lean hand rolled delicacies sweetened with honey and baked to perfection in an old wood-fired oven. These skinny bagels are made of flour, oil, malt, sugar, and eggs and have a small hole in the middle.

They are crunchy on the outside and perfectly chewy on the inside. Some of the top picks for bagels in Montreal city include Fairmount Bagel Bakery, R.E.A.L Bagel Decarie, Ville Emard Bagels, Hinnawi Bros Bagel & Café, and Bagel Etc.

Location: Montréal, Québec, Canada

No couple can ever think of winding up a trip to Canada without visiting the much famed Corkstown bridge to place a love lock. Head to this iconic 70 meters long footbridge with your beloved, tie a lock to its railing and toss the key into the river flowing below. It is always a good idea for the couples to have their initials engraved on the locks.

Location: Corktown Footbridge, Ottawa, ON, Canada

Head to the breathtaking Elk Island National Park in Alberta to spot the fascinating wild bison. On your visit to this national park, you can encounter more than 750 bison, belonging to different species. You will find wood bison in the southern part and the plains bison in the northern side of the national park. It is advisable for the visitors to plan their tour to the Elk Island National Park at dusk or in the early morning to increase their chances of spotting wild bison.

Location: Elk Island National Park, Alberta, Canada

If you are looking for good entertainment in Canada, head to one of the amazing theatres in Toronto and buy the tickets for an impressive play or show. You will be having a myriad of options at your disposal, as the city of Toronto brims with many commercial and non-profit theatres.

Some of the best theatres you can pick include Buddies In Bad Times Theatre, Aki Studio Theatre, Young Peoples’ Theatre,  Lower Ossington Theatre, and Royal Alexandra Theatre. From standup comedy shows to musical performances, you can enjoy all kinds of entertainment at these theatres.

Location: Ontario, Canada

Pay a visit to the thinly populated Uranium city, which is often referred to as ‘ghost town’. You can spend time witnessing the many dilapidated buildings and admiring the varied topography with rugged cliffs and majestic hills. You can also take a serene walk along the edge of the photogenic Athabasca Lake. You can even interact with the natives of the city and try to learn about the erstwhile Uranium mine that once operated here.

Location: Saskatchewan, Canada

Take a walk through the largest museum of Canada, the Royal Ontario Museum and explore the rich culture, art, and nature showcased by it. You can witness an extensive collection of more than 12 million brilliant artworks, beautiful cultural objects, and impressive specimens of natural history exhibited in this magnificent museum.

You can also check out the 40 galleries, special exhibitions, South Asian art, age-old Egyptian treasures, minerals and gems, and the dinosaur collections.

Location: 100 Queens Park, Toronto, ON M5S 2C6, Canada

Price: CAD 17

Timing: 10 AM to 5.30 PM

Pay a visit to the quaint Old Port of Montreal, which stretches to around 1.2 miles along the picturesque St. Lawrence River. Soak in the rustic atmosphere this port, which once served as an important trading post for the French fur traders. You can spend your time at the Old Port by visiting the top attractions of this place, such as the Montreal Clock Tower, the Montreal Science Centre, and the Lachine Canal.

You can also enjoy riding on the Grande roue de Montréal Ferris Wheel, which is considered to be the tallest ferris wheel of the country.

Location: Montreal, Quebec, Canada

Pay a visit to the historic site of the Montmorency Falls Park, which is famed for its mighty cascading waterfall. Marvel in awe at this gigantic waterfall, cascading from an approximate elevation of around 83 meters above sea level. You can choose to ride a cable car to the top of the Montmorency Falls to get an uninterrupted scenic view of this ever-charming waterfall.

You can also cross over the picturesque plunge pool on a 300 meters zipline. Other activities that you can enjoy at the Montmorency Falls Park include nature walks, culinary opportunities, and guided tours.

Location: 2490 Avenue Royale, Quebec City, Quebec G1C 1S1, Canada

Timing: 9 AM to 6 PM