The Best Things to Do in Canada
September in Saskatchewan brings shorter days and crisp autumn air that signal the start of the dramatically beautiful fall colour season. With so many varied landscapes including aspen parklands, boreal forest, prairie coulees and some one-of-a-kind oddities such as the Cypress Hills, there are almost unlimited places to enjoy the best displays. To help narrow the choices, here are eight areas that stand out as our all-time favourites.
[Read more…] about 8 Places to Find the Best Fall Colours in Saskatchewan
With more kilometres of roads than any other province, Saskatchewan excels as a place for backroad adventures. When we take the road less travelled, the journey becomes every bit as important as the destination. We discover hidden secrets missed by those rushing along the Trans Canada Highway. Plus we never have to contend with heavy traffic. Here are three of our favourite routes that reveal little-known gems in southern Saskatchewan.
[Read more…] about 3 of the Best Off-the-Beaten-Path Road Trips in Saskatchewan
Only one area in Canada is a true desert – the southern end of the Okanagan Valley near Osoyoos, BC. While many parts of the country have arid terrain, even vast expanses of sand dunes which seem desert-like, they have considerably more moisture than deserts. Osoyoos is different, and we get a hint of that as we pass the highway sign outside town proclaiming “Canada’s Warmest Welcome”. Here we find the country’s warmest annual temperature, the warmest freshwater lake, and most significantly – Canada’s lowest annual precipitation.
[Read more…] about The Osoyoos Desert | Exploring Canada’s Only Desert
Located along beautiful Okanagan Lake, surrounded by desert and wineries, Kelowna is easily one of British Columbia’s tourism jewels. It’s the third-largest metropolitan area in British Columbia, behind only Vancouver and Victoria, and is one of the most popular summer destinations in the province. It’s also one of the warmest destinations in Canada, so whether you’re looking to get some sun, go boating, hit up a golf course, visit wineries, or even visit in the winter for some awesome skiing, Kelowna is a great place to explore.
However, another great feature of Kelowna and the Okanagan Valley is that it’s home to many other great communities, such as Vernon, Peachland, Summerland, and Penticton. Plus, it’s right in the middle of the drive between Calgary and Vancouver, making it a great place to visit during an epic Canada road trip.
[Read more…] about 25 of the Best Things to Do in Kelowna
Ontario is one of the biggest and most populated provinces in Canada and is home to some amazing cities, attractions, and nature. Ranging from the massive cosmopolitan city of Toronto to the scenic landscapes of Algonquin Provincial Park, there are so many things to do in Ontario. From kayaking next to loons to experiencing Canada Day on Parliament Hill, Ontario is definitely one of the most popular provinces to visit in Canada.
Some of the wonderful attractions in Ontario included taking a helicopter tour over Niagara Falls, visiting world-class museums in Toronto, enjoying the thrill of some of the world’s best roller coasters at Canada’s Wonderland, canoeing some of Canada’s best lakes and rivers, and visiting some of Canada’s top wineries, just to name a few.
Whether you’re visiting in the summer or in the winter, looking to do one of the many Ontario road trips, or looking for the best activities and attractions for your next trip to Ontario, we’ve got you covered in this extensive guide to the best things to do in Ontario.
[Read more…] about The ULTIMATE Guide to the Best Things to Do in Ontario
Lethbridge is a small city that’s very close to my heart. Not only is Lethbridge home to the University of Lethbridge, which I attended many years ago, but it’s also where my wife and I met. I met a lot of good friends in Lethbridge as well and lived with my best friend for a semester. I’ve since been back on many occasions, experiencing new things to feature in this travel guide.
While Lethbridge doesn’t hold the same star power as places like Calgary, Banff, and Jasper, it’s certainly a beautiful city and home to a variety of fun things to do. It’s also a great base for other things to do in Alberta and is unique thanks to its desert-like climate, coulees, and cactus.
[Read more…] about These are the Best Things to Do in Lethbridge
Saskatchewan is tailor-made for camping, allowing us to go to places that may not have other accommodation options. In addition to provincial, national, and regional parks, there are numerous campgrounds in communities throughout the province. When we head into the north, the possibilities for wilderness camping are practically endless.
These are 15 places that we like, representing a cross-section of Saskatchewan’s varied landscapes and regions. We chose them not so much for campground amenities but for their amazing locations, some off-the-beaten-path. Most are easy to get to, but a few are meant for those looking for more adventure.
[Read more…] about Best Places to Go Camping in SaskatchewanIf you like visiting ancient sites, Newfoundland’s Mistaken Point UNESCO World Heritage Site is about as ancient as it gets. Here we can get in touch with creatures that lived over 560 million years ago, long before the dinosaurs and even before the formation of the Atlantic Ocean.
Amid the rugged cliffs lining the southern tip of the Avalon Peninsula lie the world’s oldest and largest assemblages of fossils. Not just any old fossils but those representing a watershed period in life on Earth. After three billion years of evolution dominated by micro-organisms, we see large complex multi-cellular organisms begin to appear. It’s been described as the dawn of life.
A trip to Mistaken Point provides a fascinating journey back in time. But it’s also a lot more than looking at fossils, with a unique landscape that differs from most of Newfoundland, wildly beautiful and rugged coastlines, and remarkable wildlife encounters.
[Read more…] about Exploring Newfoundland’s Mistaken Point UNESCO World Heritage Site
Alberta is a special place. It has the Canadian Rockies to the west, the prairies to the south, the boreal forest to the north, and the spectacular badlands somewhat in the middle. Located just 1.5 hours northeast of Calgary, Drumheller is one of the most scenic places in the province and one of the top places in the world for Dinosaur enthusiasts.
About 75 million years ago, Drumheller was a hotspot for Dinosaurs. Despite its dry-looking landscapes today, it was once home to an inland lake with a tropical climate and lush vegetation. In 1884, the future of modern Drumheller began, thanks to a discovery by geologist J. B. Tyrrell, who stumbled upon dinosaur bones while searching for coal.
Along with Calgary, Banff, and the Canadian Rockies, Drumheller is one of Alberta’s top things to do. Whether you’re an adult or a kid, Drumheller is bound to satisfy your Dinosaur crush, with epic badland scenery and the best Dinosaur museum in the world.
If you happen to make it to this incredible place, here are some ideas for what to do, where to stay, and how to get around.
[Read more…] about The Ultimate Guide to the Best Things to Do in Drumheller
Waterton Lakes may be the smallest of Canada’s Rocky Mountain National Parks, but it pulls more than its weight when it comes to amazing landscapes, wildlife, and biodiversity. It is home to half of the plant species found in Alberta, including several rarities, and it has more plant species than anywhere in the Canadian Rockies. Wildlife runs the gamut from black and grizzly bears to elk, wolves, coyotes, cougars, bighorn sheep, and more. We have been especially impressed with the number of bear sightings on our visits here.
Unlike other Rocky Mountain parks, Waterton does not have foothills transitioning from prairies to mountains. This unique landscape brings high biodiversity with a mingling of grassland and alpine environments.
Top things to do range from scenic drives to a wealth of hiking and biking trails, wildlife viewing, historic sites, and just soaking up the awesome scenery. A bonus is that Waterton tends to be less crowded and busier than other mountain parks.
[Read more…] about Exploring the Best Things to Do in Waterton Lakes National Park
Nestled along the northern banks of the Ottawa River, Quebec’s Outaouais region makes for some of the best road trips from Ottawa. After all, it’s only a 20 minute drive from the Ottawa International airport.
Seamlessly blending nature, history, and vibrant city life, this captivating region offers the perfect mix of outdoor adventures, rich French-Canadian culture, and lively urban energy. From exploring the stunning Gatineau Park with its lush forests and hiking trails to wandering through the heritage-filled streets of Gatineau and experiencing the region’s renowned museums, Outaouais is a playground for adventurers, history buffs, and culture seekers alike.
Whether you’re relaxing at North America’s largest spa, sampling local artisanal treats, or enjoying the scenic beauty of the changing seasons, this article will help you see why this is one of the best road trips from Ottawa.
[Read more…] about Outaouais: The Best Road Trips from Ottawa(This is a sponsored article from Silk & Snow.)
Have you ever been to a mid to high-end hotel and had the best sleep of your life? Some of these hotels have mastered the game regarding high-quality mattresses and bedding, creating the most comfortable space for a wonderful sleep. You would think this would be the goal of all hotels, but quite often it’s not. When we find the good ones, however, it makes us realize how important a mattress is and that we should probably up our mattress game at home, both in terms of comfort and style.
This is where the Silk & Snow mattress comes into play. We did all sorts of research trying to find the best bed-in-a-box mattresses in Canada. Gone are the days when you needed to visit a store and get them to deliver a massive king-sized mattress to your house, squeezing it through the many doors and up the stairs. Nowadays, you can get a mattress delivered in a box, allowing you to easily bring it up to your room and assemble it on your own.
There are so many companies offering mattresses like this but after much research, we decided to reach out and try the Organic Mattress by Silk & Snow. Not only did we read an overwhelming amount of positive reviews, but they also sell high-quality furniture to pair with the mattress, making it a one-stop shop for creating a beautiful bedroom.
[Read more…] about Silk & Snow Mattress – Finding High-End Comfort at HomeWhen it comes to uniquely beautiful places in Canada, Ontario’s 1000 Islands are near the top of the list. Dotted with thousands of islands, this chunk of the St. Lawrence River between the United States and Canada is full of scenic views, history, and fun attractions such as helicopter rides, boat tours, and more.
There are also plenty of towns and even cities that can be found along the 1000 Islands region, but few compare to the town of Gananoque, which is known as the gateway to the Thousand Islands. This charming town is the perfect spot for those wanting to explore the region as it is home to many hotels and guesthouses, cozy shops, local restaurants, and art galleries.
So whether you’re looking for the best things to do in Gananoque or the neighbouring Thousand Islands, we’ve got you covered.
[Read more…] about Things to Do in Gananoque, OntarioFrom outdoor adventure to all-inclusive forest resorts, this is your guide to one of the best road trips from Montreal.
Montreal is one of the most beautiful Canadian cities to visit. But sometimes it’s nice to get out of the hustle and bustle and explore the countryside, smaller towns, and natural beauty that make Quebec such a top destination. One of the best places to bask in the beauty of Quebec is the Lanaudiere-Mauricie region, which can be reached within two hours of Montreal and offers loads of beautiful resorts, unique accommodations, and more.
[Read more…] about Best Road Trips from Montreal | Lanaudière-MauricieLooking for the best things to do in Laval, Quebec? You’ve come to the right place!
Laval is a great destination for anyone looking for a blend of urban excitement and natural rural beauty. Just a stone’s throw from Montreal, this vibrant city has something for everyone, whether you’re an adventure-seeker, foodie, or nature lover. Imagine spending the morning exploring high-tech interactive exhibits at the Cosmodome, the only space museum in Canada, and then kayaking down the serene Mille Îles River by afternoon. With its colourful festivals, endless shopping options, and rich cultural scene, Laval offers an experience that’s both laid-back and full of surprises.
From the lush beauty of Centre de la Nature—a sprawling green oasis perfect for a picnic or a leisurely bike ride—to the family-friendly fun at iFly or Ferme Marineau, Laval has activities that keep visitors coming back. Whether you’re interested in catching a live show, dining on world-class cuisine, or just soaking up the local charm, Laval is the hidden gem that deserves a spot on your travel bucket list.
We just got back from spending three nights in Laval during Autumn and it was a great place to bring the family. We visited a pumpkin farm, participated in an outdoor escape room, and so much more.
[Read more…] about 12 Great Things to Do in LavalPeterborough and the Kawarthas are the ultimate getaway for anyone looking to experience the best of Ontario’s natural beauty, culture, and adventure!
This region offers a perfect mix of outdoor fun, history, and indoor attractions, with its stunning lakes, scenic trails, lush forests, amazing living history museums, and one of the top museums in the country, making it a great place to explore for anyone.
We’ve been to Peterborough a couple of times now and can’t wait to go back. Whether you’re paddling through the Trent-Severn Waterway, diving into Indigenous culture at Petroglyphs Provincial Park, or learning about Canada’s history at the Canadian Canoe Museum, Peterborough and the Kawarthas offer endless opportunities for relaxation and discovery.
It’s also less than a 2-hour drive from Toronto, making it a convenient place to explore on its own, during the Canadian Canoe Route Road Trip, or as you travel to Ottawa. So, get out your bucket list and choose from this list of the best things to do in Peterborough.
[Read more…] about Things to Do in Peterborough and the Kawarthas
Sudbury might be known for its nickel mines and stunning landscapes, but its food scene? That’s a hidden gem just waiting to be devoured! Whether you’re a fan of comfort food classics, exotic international flavours, or innovative gourmet dishes, Sudbury’s restaurant scene is a deliciously diverse mix of local flair and global influence.
We just got back from spending a week in Sudbury, which gave us the chance to try out many restaurants for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. From cozy cafés with delicious coffee to upscale eateries offering fresh farm-to-table fare, we were really surprised by the array of dining venues in the city. We also noticed that there are so many Italian restaurants in Sudbury. On a per capita basis, it has to be one of the top cities for Italian food, whether that be delicious ravioli, mouth-watering pizza, or a tasty slice of tiramisu.
Whatever your craving, enjoy this list of the best restaurants in Sudbury!
[Read more…] about Best Restaurants in Sudbury – Discover Sudbury’s Culinary Gems
If you’re looking for things to do in Sudbury, you’ve come to the right place.
Located 400 kilometres north of Toronto and officially known as Greater Sudbury, this city of lakes has a population of approximately 170,000 people and was traditionally known as a mining town, including the Canadian Copper company, which was founded in 1886, and has since merged to become the Nickel Company of Canada. The city still has 10 mines, and as you may have guessed, many of the town’s attractions are related to mining, such as the impressive Science North, Dynamic Earth, and the famous Big Nickel.
However, it’s not just mining. Sudbury has more than 330 lakes, a variety of parks, and nature reserves, and is a city with some great restaurants and interesting activities. It has become a very popular place to visit in Northern Ontario.
We’ve now been there twice and even brought our 1-year-old twin girls, who also had a blast. Whether you’re combining it as part of an Ontario road trip or just visiting the city on its own, these are the top 19 things to do in Sudbury!
[Read more…] about 19 of the Best Things to Do in SudburyCampobello is one of Canada’s most unusual islands. Located at the western end of the Bay of Fundy, it is part of New Brunswick but with strong ties to the United States as it was the site of President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s summer home. This has made the island a popular attraction for both Canadians and Americans.
From the Canadian side, it can be quite a fun adventure to visit the island as you’ll need to take two ferries. However, the island is just one kilometre away from Lubec, Maine in the United States, and from there you can drive to the island over a bridge.
Whichever way you enter, this is a really unique place to explore, which is why we’ve created this travel guide about the best things to do in Campobello Island, New Brunswick.
[Read more…] about The Best Things to Do on Campobello Island, New BrunswickFredericton, New Brunswick is one of Canada’s most pleasant and easy-going capital cities. With a population of around 70,000, it’s big enough to have every amenity while avoiding the congestion and problems of many larger centres. It also helps to have a beautiful setting along the Saint John River, also known as the Wolastoq.
The city’s rich history dates back centuries from early Indigenous inhabitants to the fur trade era, French Acadians fleeing the British, United Empire Loyalists fleeing the American Revolution, playing a role in the Canadian Confederation, and becoming the site of Canada’s first English-speaking university, to name only a few notable episodes.
Part of what makes the city so appealing is that you can walk almost everywhere, with a compact downtown and a vast network of trails. A highlight is the Bill Thorpe Walking Bridge, a former railway bridge that crosses the wide river. It’s a wonderful link making it possible to enjoy both sides of the river on foot or bicycle without having to deal with traffic.
[Read more…] about Best Things to Do in Fredericton, New Brunswick
Get ready to rev your engines and embark on an unforgettable adventure through the breathtaking landscapes of Whistler, BC! Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or just looking to explore the great outdoors in a fun and unique way, enjoying one of the best ATV tours in Whistler is the perfect blend of excitement and natural beauty. Picture yourself zooming along rugged trails, splashing through mountain streams, and climbing to new heights for panoramic views that will leave you in awe. With a variety of trails suited for all skill levels, these ATV tours in Whistler promise heart-pounding thrills and the chance to immerse yourself in the stunning wilderness of British Columbia.
[Read more…] about These are the Best ATV Tours in Whistler
From boreal forests to vast prairies and high mountain peaks, Alberta is an incredible province to explore. Born and raised in Alberta, I certainly feel that I know Alberta better than most. I’ve been to each major city and almost every small town in the province, giving me great insight into the province that I call home.
Although Alberta is one of only two provinces that are landlocked, Alberta is about as diverse as it gets. From looking at Dinosaur skeletons in the badlands and hiking some of the tallest mountain peaks in the country to splashing around in North America’s largest indoor waterpark and driving one of the world’s most scenic highways, Alberta is an incredible place to explore.
Whether you’re planning to explore the cities, the mountains, or everything in between, we’ve got you covered in this comprehensive travel guide to the wonderful province of Alberta.
[Read more…] about 82 of the Best Things To Do in AlbertaWelcome to the wild and wondrous whale-watching world in Victoria, BC!
Imagine yourself aboard a boat, the salty sea breeze tousling your hair, and the anticipation of spotting one of nature’s most majestic creatures building with every passing wave. With its pristine waters and stunning coastal landscapes, Victoria is a whale watcher’s paradise. From the heart-pounding excitement of seeing a humpback breach to the serene beauty of orcas gliding gracefully through the waves, every trip is an unforgettable adventure.
Buckle up (or rather, hold onto your hats) as we dive into the best whale-watching experiences that Victoria, BC, has to offer! Whether you’re a seasoned marine enthusiast or a curious first-timer, get ready for a splash of excitement and awe-inspiring encounters with the giants of the deep.
[Read more…] about Whale Watching Victoria
The Cypress Hills take you by surprise, revealing one of Canada’s most pleasant landscapes with its unique blend of grasslands, forests, and highlands. Unlike the surrounding plains, the upper reaches of the hills remained untouched by glaciers during the last Ice Age, leaving some of the highest land in Canada between the Rockies and Labrador.
While in the prairies, the Cypress Hills also have a lot in common with the northern forest and foothills of the Rockies, with a cooler climate and thick stands of white spruce and lodgepole pine. This combination of habitats makes for outstanding wildflower displays with species more common to the foothills growing next to grassland flowers. Of special note is the high number of wild orchids, with showy blooms such as the Calypso Orchid or the delicate Round-leaved Orchid.
[Read more…] about Exploring Cypress Hills SaskatchewanWhen it comes to luxury hotels in Halifax, Muir is the only option. It’s the only 5-star hotel in the city, which is great because Muir is one of those hotels that adds to your travel experience. From its exceptional, thoughtful design and world-class amenities to its prime location and exquisite dining, staying at Muir is an experience in and of itself.
We had been wanting to stay at Muir since we first took a tour of the hotel during a travel conference a couple of years ago. Located right on the waterfront in the Queen’s Marque District, you won’t find a better location to stay in the city.
Welcoming guests to a refined, distinctly Nova Scotian hospitality experience, Muir has put so much thought into its design, which is something we wish other hotels would follow. Pulling from the strong Scottish heritage of the province as well as its Maritime history, the hotel’s interior resembles that of a beautiful ship. Although you won’t find the hotel moving along the rugged coast like the ships that inspired it, you will find unprecedented waterfront views and ocean access.
[Read more…] about Muir Hotel: Luxury Hotels in Halifax that Truly Inspire
Canada’s first national park, which also happens to be one of the first national parks in the world, is also the country’s busiest and most popular. A “fairytale” mountain town surrounded by towering mountain peaks, there are lots of incredible things to do in Banff, Alberta. Living just over an hour away in Calgary, we’ve been to Banff well over 100 times and never get tired of visiting this beautiful slice of alpine paradise.
Attracting approximately 3-4 million visitors each and every year, it’s no secret that this is a bustling tourist town. But that’s okay. With that comes a variety of hotels, activities, bars, restaurants, and, of course, plenty of souvenir shops as well. If you’re looking for things to do in Banff, you’re in the right place.
[Read more…] about The BEST Things To Do in Banff, Alberta
Last Updated: June 25, 2024
Located almost perfectly in the middle of Canada and home to many world-class attractions, there are lots of fun things to do in Winnipeg.
Back in 2015, we actually lived in Winnipeg for six months. This was such a great way to truly explore the city and its surroundings, and it really made us fall in love with the city. Winnipeg has a thriving culture, some of the coolest attractions in the country, lots of natural beauty, and loads of delicious dining options.
Some of its star attractions include the Canadian Museum for Human Rights, the Forks Market, the Assiniboine Park Zoo, the Winnipeg Art Gallery, the Royal Winnipeg Ballet, the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, and the Winnipeg Jets. There are also lots of things to do around Winnipeg, such as relaxing on one of the top lake beaches in North America or learning about Canada’s history at the Lower Fort Garry National Historic Site.
Whether you’re a local or someone looking to visit the city, this Winnipeg travel guide will help you discover the best things to do in Winnipeg, Manitoba!
[Read more…] about 25 of the Best Things To Do in Winnipeg
Wanna go camping in Lake Superior?
The north shore of Lake Superior ranks among Canada’s great driving routes. Travelling the Trans Canada Highway between Thunder Bay and Sault Ste. Marie gives us access to a treasure trove of stunning landscapes, wild rivers, waterfalls, canoe routes, history, and hiking trails galore. Many key areas are preserved in parks, including a variety of Ontario Provincial Parks and the beautiful Pukaskwa National Park as well.
If ever a route was tailor-made for camping, this would be it. Park campgrounds allow us to stay in the midst of the best that nature has to offer, where we can look out our tent door next to the beach and watch the sun setting over the world’s largest lake.
These are some of our favourite parks for camping in Superior Lake.
[Read more…] about The Best Parks for Camping in Lake SuperiorIf you’re looking for the best cafes in Montreal, make sure you bookmark this page.
Montreal is my favourite city in Canada. It has the perfect blend of history, culture, and affordability. There are so many interesting neighbourhoods with amazing restaurants and independent stores. Plus, Montreal’s coffee scene is one of the best in the world.
My wife and I are coffee lovers and spend a lot of time in cafes, so I’m guessing we’ve tried more than 40 of the best-rated cafes in the city.
Unfortunately, many of the commonly recommended cafes online don’t serve quality third-wave coffee. Most ‘best cafes in Montreal” articles share the popular cafes instead of the best cafes. All the cafes I recommend on this list have high-quality third-wave coffee and espresso, which means you can’t go wrong by choosing any of them.
[Read more…] about Best Cafes in Montreal with Great Third Wave Coffee