Things To Do in Atlantic Canada
Welcome to the Maritimes, home of rich culture, a vibrant arts scene and a ton of fun activities. From cycling to family friendly festivals and events, water sports to extreme activities you’ll find something fun for everyone here. Watch for whales and seals, visit a national park, or motor around the regional drives to take in the scenery. Whether you’re into action packed holidays or relaxed vacations you’ll be happy you chose Atlantic Canada.
Motoring Around
Bring your own ride up or rent one and tour around the winding drives surrounded by sea, rolling green hills and rugged coastline of Atlantic Canada. Let Vineland Classic Motorcycle Tours show you the way around, or check out the local provincial route guides to motor your way around. The air is fresh and the summer weather is ideal for motorcycling here.
Get Back to Nature
Atlantic Canada prides itself in its pristine natural setting. With more parks than you could ever imagine and so many wonderful ways of experiencing them it’s up to you how you want to go about it. Hike, dive, climb or camp. From high mountain ranges to fossil covered beaches to waterfalls and boardwalk trails through natural reserves you’ll be sure to find that picture perfect moment you’ve always dreamed of. Hike the Cabot Trail in the Cape Breton Highlands National Park in Nova Scotia, visit the cultural site which inspired Lucy Maud Montgomery’s famous bestselling novel Anne of Green Gables in Prince Edward Island National Park, go mountain biking in Atlantic Canada’s only lift accessed biking mountain at Sugarloaf Mountain in New Brunswick or go freshwater diving at Newfoundland’s Fathom Five National Marine Park. Visit Parks Canada for guides and more information on all the fun outdoor activities.
Watch Wildlife
Whale watch from the comfort of a large fishing boat or get right up close in a zodiac in the famous Bay of Fundy to see over 15 species of whales and dolphins. Explore endless stretches of sandy beach perfect for beachcombing, picnics and birdwatching. Seals, fish, whales, crustaceans and other marine life share the coastal Atlantic waters while numerous bird species fly overhead during some point in their annual migration. Be sure to bring your camera, and be ready to snap a quick shot as that tail comes up for a splash!
Extreme Fun
While the Maritimes may seem like an easy breezy place, don’t be fooled. Lurking high in the mountains or along ocean coastlines are a host of extreme activities waiting to give you the ultimate adrenaline rush. From downhill mountain biking at Sugarloaf Mountain in New Brunswick to kiteboarding in Prince Edward Island you’ll find something on land or sea to please your need for extreme. Try parasailing, windsurfing, mountain climbing, caving or rapelling. Get in with the surfers in Nova Scotia. Halifax is becoming a destination for surfing, but make sure you rent a thick, warm wetsuit! Keep your eyes open and you’ll find that perfect crazy activity you can brag to all your friends back home about.
Tell Tall Fishing Tales
Your friends might not believe you but when you show them that picture of you and a huge lobster or Atlantic Salmon they’ll be wowed for sure. Deep sea fishing is not only a favourite pastime in the Maritimes it’s also a way of life and living for many people here. There are many guided fishing charters to take you out aboard a cozy fishing vessel to hunt for dinner. Many will even clean and package your catch for you, so you can have all the fun and none of the mess.
Music, Dancing, Arts and Culture
Atlantic Canada has a unique culture rich in history and full of fun loving people who know how to have a great time, all the time! From musical festivals like the localized theKiwanis Music Festival in Newfoundland, the Cavendish Beach Music Festival in PEI, the Miramichi Rock ‘N’ Roll Festival in New Brunswisk and the crazy Evolve music festival in Nova Scotia you’ll find something to suit your tastes. Dance the evening away, or check out any of the great theatre festivals and events held all over Atlantic Canada, such as the Anne of Green Gables theatrical productions by the Confederation Centre of the Arts in PEI.
And if cultural and food festivals are your thing, you’ve definitely come to the right place. We literally celebrate everything. From wine and fresh seafood, to lobster, blueberries, fiddleheads and much, much more you’ll find a great food festival where you can try the best of Atlantic Canadian goods. As far as culture you must check out a local ceilidh, a traditional Celtic gathering involving dancing and social mingling. Whenever you visit be sure to check the local listings to catch a fun event and see what the Maritimes are really made of.
So Much to See!
From natural attractions in the Bay of Fundy to historic lighthouses, museums, cultural sites and more there are tons of great places to check out when you’re in Atlantic Canada. Take the family out for a day of golf, amusement park fun or a whale watching tour. See magnificent natural landscapes, breathtaking parks, manmade wonders and oddities you can’t help but wonder about. See what attractions are awaiting you in Atlantic Canada.
It’s only possible to hit on the tip of the iceberg. Atlantic Canada, or the Maritimes, is full of fun adventurous activities, pristine wilderness and incredible scenery. Come here for a weekend and stay for a week, there are so many things to do you’ll have a list of choices specific for your own interests. Experience the old, the new and the progressive as you visit the wonders of Atlantic Canada. We have accommodations ranging from cottages and hotels, to Historic Inns and elegant Bed and Breakfasts to add that extra special touch to your trip.
