PlanetWare.com

18 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in New Brunswick

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Jul 13, 2022

With natural wonders that include the world's highest tides, some of the best whale-watching anywhere, and the warmest saltwater swimming north of Virginia, New Brunswick may surprise tourists. The province, which borders Québec , Nova Scotia , Prince Edward Island , and the US State of Maine , has other attractions and things to do that will appeal to all interests, budgets, and travel styles.

Miles of hiking trails, campgrounds, and exciting sea kayaking waters attract those who enjoy being outdoors; historic houses and entire museum villages appeal to history lovers; and the abundant natural wonders are favorites with everyone.

The largest cities are Saint John, Moncton, and the provincial capital, Fredericton. Forests cover much of the interior - more than three-quarters of the province - and most of its top attractions are close to the coast. Fredericton sits nearer the center, alongside the St. John River, which flows southeast through beautiful, rich farmland to join the Bay of Fundy in Saint John. Remember that this city's name is Saint John, always spelled out in full; St. John's is the city in Newfoundland.

You'll find plenty of things to do using this handy list of the top tourist attractions in New Brunswick.

1. Bay of Fundy and Fundy National Park

2. hopewell rocks, 3. the fundy trail parkway, 4. whale watching from st. andrews-by-the-sea, 5. roosevelt campobello international park, 6. reversing falls, skywalk, and stonehammer geopark, 7. fredericton's garrison district, 8. kingsbrae garden, 9. boyce farmers market, 10. historic saint john, 11. grand manan island, 12. kings landing, 13. explore the st. martins sea caves, 14. village historique acadien, 15. parlee beach and kouchibouguac national park, 16. magnetic hill and magnetic hill zoo, 17. irving nature park, 18. cape enrage, map of tourist attractions in new brunswick.

Whale tail in the Bay of Fundy

Many of the attractions that make New Brunswick so appealing to tourists are directly related to the Bay of Fundy and its tides. The highest tides in the world, which can measure up to 19 meters (10 fathoms) deep, occur twice daily in this funnel-shaped bay, and over the millennia, these rushing waters have carved a coastline marked by dramatic cliffs , sea caves , and fantastic rock formations .

As they rise and fall each day, the tides create natural phenomena that include Moncton's tidal bore and Saint John's famous Reversing Falls . Along the irregular shore, lighthouses crown the points, and picturesque fishing villages lie snug in its coves. The powerful tides also bring an enormous amount of plankton and fish into the bay, making it prime feeding waters for whales ; as many as 12 species are found here in the summer.

Island in Fundy National Park

The New Brunswick forest meets the tides in Fundy National Park, a stretch of undeveloped coastline roughly midway between Moncton and Saint John . Visitors can enjoy this wilderness year-round. Hiking trails lead along the coast and through the forests, and in the spring and autumn, birders come to see migratory species feeding on the tidal mudflats.

One of the favorite things to do in the winter is ski on the park's 40 kilometers of trails that are groomed for cross-country skiing. Three of the most beautiful waterfalls in New Brunswick are near Alma, a village within the park: Dickson Falls ; Laverty Falls ; and Third Vault Falls , the tallest at 16 meters. Park facilities include campgrounds, swimming, and a golf course.

Official site: https://www.pc.gc.ca/pn-np/nb/fundy

  • Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions on the Bay of Fundy

Hopewell Rocks

The Hopewell Rocks look quite different at high and low tides. When the tide is in, they appear as tree-clad islands, which you can view from a series of platforms connected by stairs. At low tide, they become giant, deeply eroded sea stacks towering above a rocky beach, and you can descend the stairs to the ocean floor to walk among them.

Park rangers are here to answer questions and to be sure the beach is cleared before the tide comes rushing in. Interpretive signs and the visitor center displays explain the formation of these sculptured cliffs and pillars. At high tide, the best way to appreciate these rocks is to kayak among them on a guided kayak excursion with Baymount Outdoor Adventures.

Address: 131 Discovery Road, Hopewell Cape, New Brunswick

Official site: http://www.thehopewellrocks.ca/

The Fundy Trail Parkway

The Fundy Trail Parkway is a scenic coastal drive that lies northeast of Saint John. It starts near St. Martins , once a bustling shipbuilding community, and continues along the coast. It's a slow-paced route, where scenic lookouts and picnic areas provide views of coastal cliffs, isolated beaches, marine wildlife, and a Flowerpot Rock .

A 10-kilometer pedestrian and bicycle trail parallels the drive, and some of the overlooks have trails to secluded cobble-strewn coves. The interpretive center at Big Salmon River has an interesting video and displays that fill in the background on the former logging community here, and old lumbering equipment is displayed at the Heritage Sawmill.

Kids will like the nearby 84-meter (275-foot) suspension footbridge across Big Salmon River. A road also crosses the river, to climb the steep headland and continue along the clifftops and down to a long beach. Parking areas at the lookouts are served on weekends by a shuttle that returns walkers to their cars.

The Fundy Trail Parkway is accessed from the village of St. Martins, where you'll find two covered bridges, sea caves, craft shops, and an outfitter for tours of the Fundy coast. St. Martins and the parkway are an easy day trip from Saint John.

Address: 229 Main Street, St. Martins, New Brunswick

Official site: http://www.fundytrailparkway.com/

Whale Watching from St. Andrews-by-the-Sea

The Bay of Fundy attracts as many as 12 species of whales and other marine animals, who gather here in the summer to have their young and to feed on the abundant krill and fish brought in by the Fundy tides. Minke and Finback wales arrive in the spring, along with Harbour Porpoises, followed by Humpback Whales and White-sided Dolphins in June.

By midsummer more species have returned, including the rare North Atlantic Right Whale . So the season runs from June through October, with the highest concentration in August. The chances of seeing not just a whale, but numerous whales and other wildlife are very high here, and on the way to the best sighting waters you'll enjoy cruising past lighthouses and islands where sea birds nest.

Three different companies in St. Andrews – Island Quest Marine Whale and Wildlife Cruises, Fundy Tide Runners and Jolly Breeze Tall Ship – offer a variety of whale watching experiences that range from zodiacs to a fully rigged sailing ship. Jolly Breeze is, with costumes and on-board activities, is especially popular with younger children. All are located around the main dock off Water Street.

There are a lot more things to do in this pretty town: a replica of a blockhouse from the War of 1812, the Huntsman Marine Science Center, Kingsbrae Garden and streets of lovely historic homes, some of which we floated across the bay from Maine by Loyalists during the American Revolution.

Ministers Island Historic Site accessible only at low tide by causeway, is a 50-room summer home that once belonged to visionary railway builder Sir William Van Horne, who also built the landmark St Andrews hotel, The Algonquin .

Roosevelt Campobello International Park

Campobello Island is accessible mid-June through September via ferries from mainland New Brunswick to Deer Island and on to Campobello, and by bridge year-round from Lubec, Maine. Though part of Canada, it has strong cross-border connections, including the historic Roosevelt summer estate that's the centerpiece of Roosevelt Campobello International Park.

The property's main structure is a 34-room cottage, where the Roosevelts summered with their children from 1905 until 1921. Franklin and his parents had summered on Campobello since he was a child. Many of the furnishings are original to the family, and well-informed guides offer details about the rooms and the Roosevelts during their stays here.

Visitors often remark on the servants' rooms, which are mixed with those of the family on the second floor, and are as large and well-furnished. Even though they had both grown up in aristocratic families, this was something both Eleanor and Franklin felt strongly about.

Along with the Roosevelt Cottage, there are several other summer homes on the extensive grounds overlooking the bay. In one of them, visitors can join the " Eleanor's Tea " program, enjoying tea and cookies while staff members relate lively and personal stories about the former First Lady and her many activities and initiatives.

Pick up the guide to wildflowers and plants in the park, or take a geological walking tour, a self-guided bog tour, or follow trails through the various ecosystems. Near the Roosevelt park, Herring Cove Provincial Park has camping, golf, hiking trails, and beaches, and at the northern tip of the island is East Quoddy Lighthouse .

Address: 459 Route 774, Welshpool, New Brunswick

Official site: https://www.rooseveltcampobello.org/

Reversing Falls

The Bay of Fundy has such an extreme tidal range that sea level is four meters below the river at low tide, but four meters above the river at high tide. The tide rises so fast and so powerfully that it forces water back into the mouth of the St. John River, causing it to flow backward.

As water rushes through the narrow gorge at the head of the harbor, it is forced over a ridge of rock, creating a waterfall that flows upstream. As the tide recedes 12 hours later, the river resumes its natural flow, pushing water over the ridge to create a falls in the downstream direction.

The best views are at Reversing Falls Bridge , where the river narrows through a deep gorge, and at the new Skywalk Saint John , at the end of the bridge. This rooftop observation platform extends more than eight meters beyond the edge of the cliff above the falls, and glass floor panels in the stainless-steel structure provide a clear view of the cliffs, falls, and whirlpools 30 meters below. Video and interactive displays explain the falls and the geology of the cliffs enclosing them.

Another viewpoint for the intense rush of water is at the nearby Fallsview Park , home to the Stonehammer Geopark , the only UNESCO-listed global geopark in North America. Here, you'll discover that there's more to see and do at the Reversing Falls than watch the force of the tides at work.

The walls of the gorge are a good place to see where 1.2-billion-year-old Precambrian marble from South America collided with 500-million-year-old igneous rock from the African plate, and to witness the work of glaciers as they carved the river's path. These and other phenomena are explored at the Stonehammer Geopark, where you can also take a boat ride into the gorge or zipline above the rushing waters.

Address: 200 Bridge Road, Saint John, New Brunswick

Official site: https://stonehammergeopark.com/

Fredericton's Garrison District

A British garrison was stationed at this site alongside the wide St. John River from 1784 to 1869. Today, two blocks of heritage buildings and grassy lawns lie between Queen Street and the river, becoming the center of summer festivals, walking tours, and historical reenactments.

The Changing of the Guard , when guards in period costume perform a drill ceremony to the accompaniment of drums and bagpipes, takes place two or three times daily in July and August. Children can don red uniforms of their own to take part in "A Day in a Soldier's Life" activities, or families can play croquet together on the lawns. The Garrison District is the venue for several festivals, including the internationally known Harvest Jazz & Blues Festival each September.

Along with the garrison's Guard House military office, prisoner cell block, and restored Barracks room, which you can visit, several museums are in the district. The Fredericton Region Museum focuses on area history (its most famous resident is a giant frog), and the School Days Museum shows period classrooms, clothing, and artifacts, such as toys and lunchboxes.

The NB Sports Hall of Fame features sports heroes, and the New Brunswick College of Craft and Design has a gallery showing the works of its talented students and graduates. Just down the main street is New Brunswick's premier art museum, Beaverbrook Art Gallery , with its new wing opened in 2017. A highlight of the new wing is Salvador Dali's monumental painting, Santiago el Grande .

Address: Queen Street, Fredericton, New Brunswick

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Fredericton

Kingsbrae Garden

New Brunswick's premier botanical garden enjoys a climate tempered by the Bay of Fundy to grow more than 50,000 perennials in a series of themed gardens. The floral displays are breathtaking, but beyond the gardens' beauty are the horticultural lessons it teaches about organic and sustainable practices, garden design, and how gardens fit into their landscapes and ecosystems.

As you stroll through the gardens, you'll find a windmill, two beautifully detailed historic playhouses, a cedar maze, peacocks, ponds, an apple orchard, woodland trails, a garden for the senses, a heather garden, and formal terraces. An entire section for children features small playhouses, a castle to climb, rabbits, and an adjacent corral with alpacas and goats.

Works of contemporary sculptors are placed throughout the gardens, and a separate Sculpture Garden showcases dozens more in settings designed for each one. A tea room spreads onto a terrace overlooking the manicured lawns.

Address: 220 King Street, St. Andrews-by-the-Sea, New Brunswick

Official site: www.kingsbraegarden.com

Boyce Farmers Market

Each Saturday morning, a steady stream of Fredericton residents head to Boyce Farmers Market, one of Canada's top 10 community markets, and it's worth some advance trip planning to join them here. Spread over two large market halls and the surrounding outdoor area are more than 250 local farmers, food producers, and craftspeople from along the St. John River region and across New Brunswick.

While locals chat with neighbors and shop for vegetables, meats, dairy products, and breads from several bakeries, tourists find wild blueberry jam; wood crafts; maple syrup; handmade soaps; hand-knit socks and mittens; stylish felted wool hats; pottery; jewelry; and ready-to-eat foods of all kinds, from local cheeses and warm pretzels to samosas and sizzling grilled sausages.

Stand in line for a sit-down breakfast in the market or grab a croissant and coffee and head for one of the picnic tables outside. Look here for bags of dulse, a traditional local seaweed snack.

Address: Brunswick Street, Fredericton, New Brunswick

Official site: http://frederictonfarmersmarket.ca/

Historic Saint John

Prominent among the early settlers of Saint John were supporters of the British Crown, who arrived on two fleets of ships from Massachusetts , families escaping the American Revolution. These and subsequent Loyalists shaped the character of the city, as they did much of southern and central New Brunswick.

Perhaps even more influential in shaping the present appearance of the city's uptown commercial and residential district was the Great Fire of 1877, which completely destroyed more than 21 entire streets. The buildings that rose from the ashes were all in the style of that period, leaving Saint John with some of Canada's best Victorian architecture .

Prince William Street is designated a National Historic Site of Canada for its rare concentration of distinguished buildings designed and decorated in the styles of one period. Farther up the hill are entire blocks of townhouses reminiscent of Boston's Back Bay and Beacon Hill, not surprising, since many of the architects who came to help with the rebuilding were from Boston. You can explore these historic neighborhoods with downloadable maps and apps detailing the Loyalist Trail , the Victorian Stroll , and the Prince William Walk .

One of the few buildings to escape the fire was St. John's Anglican Church , built in 1825 and a National Historic Site. Another spared was the City Market , Canada's oldest continuing farmers' market, completed just the year before. The block-long building houses local vendors, who display fresh produce, seafood, and other edibles, as well as crafts and art.

Fine handcrafts and art are highly valued in Saint John, as you will notice from the number of galleries and studios you'll pass. You can pick up a map of these from the visitors center at Market Square , which is filled with sidewalk cafes and inhabited by the colorful, larger-than-life people sculptured by John Hooper.

  • Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Saint John, New Brunswick

Grand Manan Island

Accessible only by ferry from Blacks Harbour, the island of Grand Manan is a tiny fishing community near the mouth of the Bay of Fundy . A road follows the sea along its 35-kilometer length, with a few side roads leading the 10 kilometers to its precipitous western shore.

Birders come to spot some of the more than 240 species found here, including the Atlantic puffin, and the island is also a popular base for whale-watching and to spot other aquatic animals, including the Atlantic white-sided dolphin, harbor porpoise, and four species of seals. Artists find inspiration in its rugged cliffs, lighthouses, and fishing villages, and you'll find a number of studios and galleries on the island.

Kings Landing

A unique combination of untraditional museum and historical village experience, Kings Landing brings the history of rural New Brunswick to life for all ages. Begin a visit with the series of lively, interactive exhibits that draw from the collection of more than 70,000 artifacts to lure visitors into the past.

Following various themes and including plenty of active experiences (maybe try on period clothes or play a vintage musical instrument), the exhibits set the historical stage for a period that begins with the arrival of the Loyalists from the just-forming United States and ends with the technological advancements of the early 20th century. Here, too, are free workshops where you can learn 19th-century skills and crafts, such as embroidery or rope-making, or perhaps make your own candles.

Once you cross the bridge, you step into a country village of people going about their daily lives. Costumed interpreters may invite you to pitch in and help with household and kitchen tasks or tending gardens, and they always have time to explain what they are doing and how it relates to their lives and work.

Stroll through the village homes and farms, and catch a wagon ride to visit the printer, a blacksmith, and a working sawmill. US visitors may be surprised to learn as much about their own history as they do about Canada's.

Address: 5804 Route 102, Prince William, New Brunswick

Official site: http://kingslanding.nb.ca

Sea caves in St. Martins

Another of the natural wonders created by the powerful Bay of Fundy tides, the sea caves at St. Martins were carved from cliffs of red sandstone layers interspersed with coarse conglomerate stone of a lighter color. The multiple layers form diagonal stripes, showing the upward thrust of the land sometime after the layers were formed, in the Triassic Period, around 250 million years ago.

Repeated assault by the Fundy tides rushing in and out twice daily – with a variation of 38 feet between high and low tides – has carved the soft stone into sea caves that are partially submerged by tides. At low tide, you can walk along the beach (expect to get your feet wet crossing a small stream) and into the caves.

At high tide, you can explore the caves by kayak on a tour with Red Rock Adventure, whose kiosk is in the village of St. Martins, only a mile from the caves.

Village Historique Acadien

This museum village represents the lives of a different group of New Brunswick's settlers, the Acadians, who arrived from France in the 1600s and 1700s. Their French-speaking descendants live in northeastern New Brunswick, along the coast north of Moncton and throughout the region known as the Acadian Peninsula .

Village Historique Acadien represents the lives of Acadians between 1780 and 1949, told through 40 preserved and replicated homes, shops, and workshops. Costumed interpreters demonstrate the household, farm, and craftsmen's skills that were found in villages during those periods. You might arrive at a farmhouse kitchen in time for a few tips on early 19th-century cooking or to taste bread fresh from the oven.

Elsewhere villagers are busy with seasonal tasks: drying fish, carding and spinning wool, cutting hay, forging tools and horse shoes. You can sample Acadian dishes in the restaurant and even stay overnight in an authentic hotel replicating an actual one that was operating in 1907 in nearby Caraquet . Known especially for its seafood, especially oysters (there's an oyster museum in town), Caraquet is a good base for exploring the Acadian Peninsula and beautiful Miscou Island.

Address: 14311 Road 11, Riviere du Nord, New Brunswick

Official site: https://villagehistoriqueacadien.com/en

Kouchibouguac National Park

Fine sands and warm waters that can reach 20 degrees Celsius make the beaches along the Northumberland Strait, north of Moncton, some of the finest on the Atlantic coast. Along with its long white sands and gentle surf, Parlee Beach Provincial Park has a campground and changing facilities, catering to the many families that visit in summer.

The nearby Acadian community of Shediac is known as the lobster capital of the world , and displays its pride with a bus-sized lobster statue near the visitor information center.

Farther north along this same coast, Kouchibouguac National Park includes a variety of ecosystems in addition to its long, wide beaches and sandbars . These, plus tidal lagoons, high sand dunes, and salt marshes stretch along nearly 30 kilometers of shore, and forests extend inland.

These habitats support a variety of plants, including more than 20 orchid species. Birdlife is just as rich, and you'll often see seals on the offshore sandbars. Along with campgrounds, public beaches, and picnic areas, canoe and bike rentals are available, as well as snowshoes and ski equipment in the winter.

Address: 186 Route 117, Kouchibouguac National Park, New Brunswick

Official site: http://www.pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/nb/kouchibouguac

Magnetic Hill

For generations of families visiting Moncton, Magnetic Hill has been a tourist icon, earning it a place in the Canadian Register of Historic Places. Here, a car shifted into neutral with brakes released will mysteriously move uphill. Of course, it doesn't really; it's an optical illusion caused by the surrounding land's gradient. The kids will love it.

They'll also love the Magnetic Hill Zoo, one of the favorite things to do for families. The largest zoo in Atlantic Canada, Magnetic Hill houses about 600 mammals, birds, insects, reptiles, and fish. Especially popular are the big cats: African lions, jaguars, tigers, Amur leopards, cheetahs, and Amur tigers.

Other exotics are monkeys, toucans, flamingoes, zebras, ring-tailed lemurs, gibbons, and western cougars, but just as fascinating is the chance to observe hard-to-spot local wildlife such as red foxes, otters, black bears, and caribou.

Address: 125 Magic Mountain Road, Moncton, New Brunswick

Official site: https://www.moncton.ca/magnetichillzoo

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Moncton

Irving Nature Park

Just outside the center of Saint John, the Irving Nature Park protects 600 acres of salt marsh, forests, mud flats, volcanic rock, and beach along 11 kilometers of shoreline. A boardwalk across the marsh is an excellent vantage point for observing the more than 250 species of birds that nest in the park or pass through in migration, and you can watch harbor seals from a Seal Observation Deck.

Trails through the woods lead to views of the rocky shoreline, which changes constantly with the rise and fall of the Fundy tides. There's an area designed just for children, with a playground and a maze of cedar hedges. The free park has picnic facilities with barbecue grills

Address: Sand Cove Road, Saint John, New Brunswick

Cape Enrage lighthouse

A tiny lighthouse dating to 1838 sits atop rugged cliffs at Cape Enrage, providing a panoramic view over the Bay of Fundy . Though light stations are fairly typical on the Atlantic Coast, Cape Enrage also has an outdoor activity center, where enthusiasts can learn to rappel, zipline, rock climb, and kayak.

On a walk along Barn Marsh Island Beach, safe only at low tide, you can see fossils that have fallen off the 40-meter cliffs that extend for four kilometers behind the beach. The fossils in the layers of sedimentary rock eroding from the cliff are about 320 million years old.

Address: 650 Cape Enrage Road, Waterside, New Brunswick

Official site: http://www.capeenrage.ca/

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

image

Where to Go from New Brunswick: After you have explored the Bay of Fundy and New Brunswick's cities, you'll want to cross over the Confederation Bridge to Prince Edward Island to explore its lively capital of Charlottetown , known as the Birthplace of Canada.

image

More Places to Visit in Atlantic Canada: You can take a ferry from Prince Edward Island to Nova Scotia , or you can drive there from New Brunswick across a narrow isthmus near the Confederation Bridge. You'll find plenty of things to do in Nova Scotia: visit the lovely Annapolis Valley or drive the famed Cabot Trail to explore the beautiful highlands of Cape Breton Island .

instagram logo

More on Canada

Canada Travel Guide

THIS IS NEW BRUNSWICK

The 15+ Best Things to Do in New Brunswick (Updated: 2023)

newbrunswick

December 30, 2022

New Brunswick is a beautiful province located on the east coast of Canada that offers a range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy.

From the stunning natural beauty of the Bay of Fundy and the Appalachian Mountains to the rich history and culture of the region, there is something for everyone in New Brunswick.

Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply relaxing and enjoying the beauty of the area, there are plenty of things to do in New Brunswick.

The Best Things to Do in New Brunswick

Prepare to embark on a captivating journey through New Brunswick, a province brimming with diverse experiences that will leave you awestruck.

From immersing yourself in history and immersing in the natural wonders of the great outdoors to savoring delectable local cuisine and soaking in the vibrant local culture, this post unveils the most extraordinary things to do in the province.

Whether you’re an adventurer, a history buff, a food connoisseur, or a cultural enthusiast, New Brunswick has an array of treasures waiting for you to discover. Join us as we delve into the heart of this enchanting province.

Visit the Hopewell Rocks

new brunswick tourism

A visit to the Hopewell Rocks is an absolute must when in New Brunswick. These captivating rock formations, affectionately known as the “Flowerpots,” grace the shores of the Bay of Fundy, and they are a testament to the province’s natural wonders.

During low tide, the Bay of Fundy boasts the most extreme tidal range in the world, revealing the ocean floor and exposing these remarkable rocks. Visitors have the extraordinary opportunity to venture down onto the ocean floor, where they can stand in awe, dwarfed by the colossal Flowerpots rising majestically from the ground. It’s a surreal experience, one that connects you with the power and beauty of nature in a profound way. You can even go kayaking at Hopewell Rocks for a closer look.

For those eager to delve deeper into the geological marvels of the area, guided tours are available. Expert guides provide captivating insights into the formation of these rocks, their ancient history, and the ecological significance of the Bay of Fundy. It’s a chance to gain a deeper appreciation for the natural forces that have shaped this awe-inspiring landscape over millions of years.

The Hopewell Rocks are a place where time seems to stand still, inviting you to explore, learn, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a geology buff, or simply seeking a serene and breathtaking escape, a visit to the Hopewell Rocks promises an unforgettable experience in New Brunswick.

Explore the Fundy Trail Parkway

bay of fundy view

The Bay of Fundy Coastal Parkway is a picturesque gem that should not be missed on your New Brunswick journey. Meandering along the captivating Bay of Fundy coastline, this scenic parkway invites travelers to immerse themselves in a world of outdoor adventure and natural wonders.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the Bay of Fundy Coastal Parkway is a playground of possibilities. Lace up your hiking boots or hop on your bike to explore the myriad of trails that wind through lush forests, offering stunning vistas of the bay. As you pedal or hike, keep your eyes peeled for the diverse wildlife that calls this area home, from graceful deer to majestic bald eagles.

One of the highlights of this coastal route is the opportunity for awe-inspiring whale watching. The Bay of Fundy is renowned for its rich marine life, and a guided whale-watching excursion promises a front-row seat to witness these gentle giants breaching the surface. It’s a surreal and humbling experience that connects you with the marine wonders of the world.

The Bay of Fundy Coastal Parkway is also a haven for beach lovers, with numerous beautiful beaches scattered along its route. Whether you seek a tranquil spot to soak up the sun or an invigorating swim in the refreshing waters, these beaches offer a serene escape.

In addition to the natural beauty, be sure to discover the hidden waterfalls that cascade down rugged cliffs, creating breathtaking vistas and providing perfect spots for a picnic or a peaceful moment of reflection.

The Bay of Fundy Coastal Parkway is a symphony of natural wonders, beckoning you to explore its trails, watch for whales, and unwind on its sandy shores. As you venture along this coastal gem, you’ll find yourself immersed in the raw beauty of New Brunswick’s coastline, creating cherished memories of your journey along the Bay of Fundy.

Visit the Saint John City Market

new brunswick tourism

Right in the heart of downtown Saint John, the historic market is an absolute must-see for anyone fortunate enough to visit this charming city. Steeped in tradition and brimming with local flair, this vibrant marketplace beckons you to explore its diverse offerings.

This also happens to be one of the best things to do in Saint John .

From locally crafted products and artisanal crafts that showcase the region’s creative spirit to an enticing array of food vendors serving up delectable delights, including the freshest seafood catches and mouthwatering baked goods, a visit to this bustling market is a sensory journey that connects you with the essence of Saint John’s rich culture and culinary heritage.

Take a Trip to the Coastal Town of St. Andrews

boat on a rock in saint andrews

Nestled on the Bay of Fundy, St. Andrews is a charming coastal town with a rich history and a range of activities to enjoy.

Visitors can explore the town’s beautiful beaches, visit the St. Andrews Biological Station, or take a boat tour to see the whales and other marine life in the area.

Check out our post on the best things to do in St. Andrews for a more in-depth guide.

Visit the Fredericton Boyce Farmers Market

downtown fredericton

In the heart of charming Fredericton, this beloved farmers market stands as a vibrant hub that beckons both locals and visitors alike to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of the city’s culture.

With a diverse array of locally-grown, farm-fresh produce, meticulously handcrafted artisan goods, and an enticing array of unique products, it’s a haven for those seeking to connect with the soul of Fredericton’s vibrant community.

The market serves as a culinary mecca, offering a delectable selection of mouthwatering foods that embody the essence of the region’s gastronomic heritage, making it an irresistible destination to savor and celebrate the flavors of Fredericton.

Check out our post on things to do in Fredericton if you’re planning on visiting.

Explore the Fundy National Park

new brunswick tourism

Exploring Fundy National Park is a journey into the heart of natural wonderment and it’s one of the best things to do in New Brunswick you don’t want to miss. Nestled within the Appalachian Mountains, this pristine sanctuary captivates with its lush forests, serene waterfalls, and abundant wildlife.

With a network of hiking trails that wind through breathtaking landscapes, it’s a hiker’s paradise. Whether camping beneath starlit skies, kayaking on tranquil waters, or birdwatching amidst the rustling leaves, every moment spent here is an immersion in the untamed beauty of the great outdoors.

Fundy National Park invites you to disconnect from the everyday and embrace the wild, forging lasting memories amid nature’s exquisite tapestry.

Visit the New Brunswick Museum

A visit to the New Brunswick Museum in Saint John is a captivating journey into the province’s vibrant past and the intricate tapestry of its culture and natural history.

As the largest museum in New Brunswick, it stands as a testament to the province’s rich heritage, housing a diverse array of exhibits that beckon both locals and visitors alike to delve into its treasure trove of knowledge.

Wander through halls that resonate with the echoes of history, where artifacts and stories come to life, tracing the footsteps of early settlers, indigenous peoples, and the maritime traditions that have shaped this unique region.

The museum’s cultural exhibits provide a vivid mosaic of New Brunswick’s diverse communities, artistry, and traditions, while its natural history displays unveil the wonders of the province’s rich ecosystems and biodiversity. A visit here is not just an exploration; it’s an immersion into the very essence of New Brunswick.

Take a Trip to the Moncton TreeGO Adventure Park

For things to do in Moncton , this adventure park offers a range of outdoor activities such as zip lining, climbing, and ropes courses.

When it comes to seeking thrilling outdoor adventures in Moncton, look no further than Moncton TreeGo adventure park . Nestled amidst the picturesque natural beauty of the area, it beckons both thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts alike to embark on an adrenaline-pumping journey.

With an array of heart-pounding activities, from soaring through the treetops on exhilarating zip lines to conquering challenging ropes courses that test your mettle, this park promises an unforgettable experience.

For those with a thirst for heights and adventure, the climbing opportunities here are bound to satisfy your craving for excitement. Whether you’re a novice climber looking for an introductory experience or a seasoned pro seeking new challenges, the climbing options cater to all skill levels, ensuring an exhilarating ascent.

What truly sets this adventure park apart is its ability to seamlessly blend adventure with the serenity of the natural surroundings. As you engage in these pulse-pounding activities, you’ll be treated to breathtaking vistas of the surrounding landscape.

The park offers not just thrills, but a chance to connect with the pristine wilderness, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a balanced mix of excitement and natural beauty.

Visit the Kingsbrae Garden

new brunswick tourism

Nestled in the heart of St. Andrews, the Kingsbrae Garden unfolds as a mesmerizing 27-acre botanical paradise.

Here, a diverse array of plants, colorful flowers, and botanical wonders dance in harmony, creating a symphony of colors and scents that captivate the senses.

As you meander through its carefully curated paths, you’ll find yourself immersed in the artistry of nature.

The Kingsbrae Garden offers more than just visual delight; it’s a sanctuary for relaxation and reflection, a place to unwind amidst the serene natural beauty that graces this charming town.

Explore the Magnetic Hill Zoo

Moncton’s Magnetic Hill Zoo is a delightful haven for wildlife enthusiasts of all ages. With a diverse collection of animals, from majestic lions and tigers to playful bears and inquisitive monkeys, the zoo offers a thrilling opportunity to connect with the animal kingdom.

Beyond the excitement of observing these magnificent creatures up close, it’s also a place of learning and discovery. A visit to the zoo is an educational experience, providing insights into the lives and habitats of the various species that call this zoological wonderland home.

Spend a day at the Magnetic Hill Zoo, and you’ll not only create cherished memories but also develop a deeper appreciation for the rich diversity of our planet’s fauna.

Visit the New Brunswick Sports Hall of Fame

In the heart of Fredericton, the New Brunswick Sports Hall of Fame stands as a testament to the province’s rich sporting legacy. This museum is a treasure trove of history, showcasing exhibits dedicated to some of the most illustrious athletes to emerge from the region.

As you explore the hall’s hallowed halls, you’ll be transported through time, reliving the triumphs and milestones of these sporting legends. It’s not just a place for sports enthusiasts; it’s an opportunity to connect with the indomitable spirit of athleticism and gain a deeper understanding of the profound impact these athletes have had on New Brunswick’s sports heritage.

The New Brunswick Sports Hall of Fame is a place where passion, dedication, and achievement converge, leaving visitors inspired by the resilience and excellence of the province’s sporting heroes.

Visit the Reversing Falls

Saint John’s Reversing Falls is a natural wonder that ranks among the most fascinating attractions in the city.

This geological marvel occurs when the mighty tides of the Bay of Fundy collide with the Saint John River, causing the water to surge both upstream and downstream.

Observing this breathtaking spectacle is a must, and there are multiple ways to do so. Visitors can choose to witness the dramatic tidal changes from an elevated platform above the falls, where the sheer power of nature is palpable.

For a more immersive experience, take a boat tour that ventures closer to the action, allowing you to feel the awe-inspiring forces of the tides up close.

Take a Trip to the Acadian Village

If you’re looking for things to do in Caraquet , the Acadian Village is a living history museum that offers a glimpse into the lives of the Acadian people who settled in the region.

Caraquet’s Acadian Village is a living history museum that transports you back in time to the early days of Acadian settlement in the region. This immersive experience offers a unique glimpse into the lives, traditions, and culture of the Acadian people who made this area their home.

Roam through historic buildings that recreate an authentic Acadian village, where traditional crafts come to life through skilled artisans. Engage in cultural activities that allow you to step into the shoes of those who forged a rich heritage against the backdrop of New Brunswick’s stunning landscapes.

The Acadian Village is not just a museum; it’s a time-traveling adventure that invites you to discover the resilience and vibrant spirit of the Acadian people.

Go Skiing or Snowboarding at Crabbe Mountain

new brunswick tourism

For those seeking winter thrills and the pristine beauty of New Brunswick’s snow-covered landscapes, Crabbe Mountain in Central New Brunswick is the ultimate destination. As the province’s largest ski resort, it offers an array of winter sports activities, including downhill skiing, snowboarding, and cross-country skiing.

Whether you’re a seasoned winter sports enthusiast or a novice looking for fun on the slopes, Crabbe Mountain has something for everyone.

The crisp mountain air, glistening snow, and exhilarating runs make it an ideal place to spend a day enjoying the great outdoors during the winter season.

It’s a chance to embrace the magic of winter and create unforgettable memories in the heart of New Brunswick’s snowy wonderland.

Enjoying What New Brunswick Has to Offer

New Brunswick is a province that beckons travelers with its diverse tapestry of experiences and natural wonders. As we’ve explored the 15+ best things to do in New Brunswick in this updated guide, it’s evident that this Canadian gem offers something for everyone. From the mesmerizing tides of the Bay of Fundy to the rich history and culture of its cities and towns, New Brunswick is a destination that captures the heart and soul of those who venture here.

Whether you’re an adventurer seeking thrills in the great outdoors, a history buff eager to delve into the province’s past, a food connoisseur ready to savor local cuisine, or a cultural enthusiast yearning to immerse in the vibrant local traditions, New Brunswick delivers a wealth of treasures. It’s a place where you can stand in awe of geological wonders, witness the majesty of marine life, and connect with the resilience of Acadian heritage.

New Brunswick invites you to embark on a journey of exploration and discovery, where each experience leaves an indelible mark on your memory. It’s a place where the beauty of nature and the warmth of its communities come together to create unforgettable moments. As you explore the best things to do in New Brunswick, you’ll find yourself enchanted by the province’s charm and captivated by its allure. So, pack your bags, follow your wanderlust, and let New Brunswick’s captivating offerings be your guide to a truly extraordinary adventure.

newbrunswick

Author: newbrunswick

Things to do in shediac | the lobster capital of the world, the hopewell rocks in new brunswick, leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

27 Best Things to do in New Brunswick, Canada

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: April 8, 2023

When looking for the best things to do in New Brunswick, look no further, because this guide has you covered. Home to the world’s highest tides, known for its amazing whale watching excursions, gorgeous rugged coastal scenery, and historic city centres, New Brunswick has everything a traveler could want.

When planning a road trip to the East Coast of Canada this gorgeous province should not be missed. New Brunswickers have a reputation of being friendly and welcoming and we felt the hospitality wherever we went. It’s not only the people that make New Brunswick special, we could not believe the number of amazing attractions scattered throughout the province.

Table of Contents

Things to Do in New Brunswick

There is a lot more to New Brunswick than just the Hopewell Rocks. From the hip city of Saint John to the wonders of the Fundy Trail, there are natural wonders and maritime history to explore making it a top destination in Canada.

Let us take you on a photographic journey through New Brunswick. By the time you finish, we hope you will fall in love with this amazing East Coast province as we did.

1. Hopewell Rocks

The Hopewell Rocks may be the most famous tourist attraction in all of Eastern Canada and it is definitely one fo the best things to do in New Brunswick.

This set of flowerpot rock formations located on the Bay of Fundy is a natural wonder of the world where visitors can walk on the ocean floor for three hours on either side of low tide to witness the immense movement of these legendary waters. We have experienced the high tides of the Bay of Fundy on several adventures, watch our video here.

2. Bay of Fundy

The Bay of Fundy is massive and there are plenty more places to experience it than the Hopewell Rocks. Home to the highest tides in the world, it is an amazing wonder of the world to see it at both high and low tides. The tides move twice daily shifting 100 billion tons of water 15 meters (52 feet) in and out of the bay.

At low tide, visitors can walk for miles exploring the rock formations, sea caves, and arches up close. When visiting New Brunswick, it is up there as the number one thing to do.

3. St. Martins Sea Caves

While the Hopewell Rocks may be the most famous place to experience the Bay of Fundy in New Brunswick, our favourite place to walk on the ocean floor was at the Sea Caves at St. Martins. When the tides are high, the St. Martins sea caves are filled with water and nearly disappear under the sea. But when the tide is low, visitors can walk right into the caves and explore the massive caverns from the inside out.

Make sure to go at both high tide and low tides. The town and the caves take on a completely different view. The St. Martin’s Sea Caves are truly an incredible sight and not to be missed.

4. St. Martins

St. Martins itself is worth spending a day or two to explore. You can book kayak tours to paddle on the Bay of Fundy and explore the sea caves at high tide. Trust me, kayaking the Bay of Fundy is one of the coolest things to do. It is here that you can see the famous fishing boats sitting on the ocean floor at low tide while they wait for high tide to come in.

You really see the power of the tides when spending a full day in St. Martins. Plus it has not one but two historic covered bridges. It is truly a hidden gem of Canada.

  • Check out the Salmon River BnB for an overnight stay in this historic town.

Hot Tip – Split Rock

Split Rock at Duck Pond is a local’s place to experience the Bay of Fundy. This deserted beach leads to a massive sea cliff split in two that you can walk to at low tide. Check it out in this post: 24 Fantastic Things to do in Saint John New Brunswick

5. Historic Covered Bridges

New Brunswick has 58 covered bridges in the province . It can take weeks to see them all, and it is a lot of fun to set out for a day to find them. As we mentioned above, two bridges can be found in Saint Martin located just 45 minutes north of Saint John.

Dating back to the 1800s, the land was once filled with these covered bridges, known as Kissing Bridges. Today, the remaining 58 have been designated heritage buildings. We explored many of the covered bridges of New Brunswick while working with the BBC. Read our BBC StoryWorks at The Bridges and Small Town Gems of New Brunswick

6. World’s Longest Covered Bridge

The star of all the covered bridges of New Brunswick is the World’s longest covered bridge in Hartland. Located 90 minutes north of Fredericton, the Hartland covered bridge dates back to 1901. It was covered in 1021 and holds the record as the longest covered bridge in the world at 391 m (1,282 feet) long.

Spanning the Saint John River, visitors can not only drive across the bridge, there is a walkway along its side as well. The town of Hartland has made a tourist industry around the bridge with souvenir shops, The W.W. Craig Gallery, walking trails, and a golf course.

7. Fundy National Park

The Fundy National Park is a spectacular drive along the coast of the Bay of Fundy. Located between Moncton and Saint John, this is an excellent route to take when driving from one city to another. Read more at Canada’s Most Beautiful National Parks.

It is one of Canada’s smallest national parks, spanning only 12 km along the coast, but there is a lot to see and do. There are hiking trails through the Acadian forest, waterfalls, and high lookouts over the Bay of Fundy. The scenery is spectacular through rolling hills and green forests. It is truly a highlight of traveling through the province. 

We entered Fundy NPfrom the north after spending the night at the Hopewell Rocks. Alma is a great place to make a base to spend a couple of days in the park. There are four campgrounds in the park, but if you want hotels and BnBs, you can get them in this fishing village. There are also restaurants, and kayaking and hiking. And this is another place to see the fishing boats sitting on the ocean floor at low tide.

Check out these rustic pine cottages at Captains Lookout Cottages in Alma for accommodation.

9. Fundy Trail Parkway

We highly recommend visiting the Fundy Trail Parkway. The Alma connector road linking Sussex to Alma is now open! Fundy Trail Parkway now connects the eastern entrance of Fundy National Park to the village of Alma. When we went, we drove in from the south near St. Martins by the Sea and had to turn around when we got to the end but now tourists and locals can drive straight on through.

This 30km stretch of road has some of the most dramatic views in Canada with high sea cliffs, hiking trails, old-growth forests, and secluded beaches. One of the best places to experience the Bay of Fundy at low tide here is at Seely Beach where you can walk for miles along the ocean floor.

10. Fundy Footpath

One of the best things to do in New Brunswick is to hike the famous Fundy Footpath. This challenging multi-day hike has been rated as one of the top 50 hikes in the world. But don’t worry you don’t have to the entire Fundy Footpath, there are plenty of hiking trails in the Fundy Trail Parkway to give you a taste of the outdoors and where you can experience the low tides of New Brunswick.

11. Cape Enrage

Cape Enrage is another wonder of the world located in New Brunswick. Located just south of the Hopewell Rocks, Cape Enrage is a towering cliff looking over the Bay of Fundy. It’s mantlepiece is a lighthouse dating back to 1838.

Adventure at Cape Enrage

If you want to add some excitement to your stop at Cape Enrage, you can rappel down the 43m (142 ft) cliff of Cape Enrage or you can ride the 600-foot long zipline. But you don’t have to do adventures to enjoy the views, there are a restaurant and viewpoints at Cape Enrage. We stopped here for some takeaway coffee before hitting the beach below.

12. Chill out in Saint John

Saint John New Brunswick is probably one of the most underrated cities in Canada. But this city is turning into one of the hippest in the country. With old warehouses being restored and turned into microbrew pubs, chic bistros, and artisan workshops, Saint John is a place to spend a few days exploring.

There are so many things to see and do in Saint John it requires its own post that you can read here . But before you go, here are a few not to miss favorites:

  • Explore Grannan and St. Germain streets for nightlife fine dining and artist shops.
  • Irving Nature Park
  • tour the Imperial Theatre – with Hollywood connections to Louis B. Mayer
  • Watch the sunset at Fort Howe
  • New Brunswick Museum – The New Brunswick Museum is Canada’s oldest continuous museum
  • Take a drive to the Cape Spencer Lighthouse
  • Read more about things to do in Saint John here.

Where to Stay in Saint John

  • The Hilton Saint John is a good central location on the water that is within walking distance to all the downtown attractions. Plus, you can never go wrong with a Hilton. Check out rates and Availability on TripAdvisor / Booking.com
  • Delta Hotels by Marriott is another great location downtown. Just 25 minutes from Saint John Airport in the heart of downtown. The indoor pedway system connects it to  Saint John City Market, Brunswick Square Shopping Complex, City Hall, the Canada Games Aquatic Centre, and Harbour Station. View it on TripAdvisor / Booking.com

13. Reversing Falls

The most famous place in Saint John is the Reversing Falls. Even though it doesn’t seem like much, visiting the Reversing falls are really one of the top things to do in New Brunswick. They truly are a natural phenomenon where the St. John river collides with the Bay of Fundy tides as it recedes. The tides overpower the St. John river reversing the flow twice a day thus creating a bouncing display of reversing waterfalls.

Make sure to go up to the observation deck and restaurant to see the reversing falls rapids from above. We missed this on our first trip to St John and were glad we saw it on our second. We didn’t know what we were missing! If you want to try something cool, visit Saint John Adventures to try a zip line over the reversing falls.

14. Tidal Bore Wave in Moncton

Something similar to the reversing walls of Saint John is the Tidal Bore Wave in Moncton. When the waters of the Bay of Fundy make their way up the Petitcodiac River at low tide it reverses the flow of the river creating a tidal bore rapid in the centre of the river.

15. Magnetic Hill

One of the most unique tourist attractions in New Brunswick is Magnetic Hill located in Moncton. Magnetic Hill is a natural phenomenon where your vehicle will roll uphill when you take your foot off the brake. In fact, Magnetic hill is an optical illusion, (so they say) but trust us, it truly feels as if you are rolling uphill!

There are plenty of things to do around Magnetic hill as it’s become a popular attraction with a vineyard, waterpark, casino, and golf course nearby.

Where to Stay in Moncton

  • Delta Marriott Moncton – Located downtown on the Petitcodiac River Check it out on TripAdvisor / Booking.com
  • Hyatt Place Moncton – Another great location close to Main Street and theatres in the heart of Downtown. See it on TripAdvisor

16. Kouchibouguac National Park

The Fundy National Park and the Hopewell Rocks tend to overshadow the rest of New Brunswick, but there are other amazing places to visit in the province. Kouchibouguac National Park is located on New Brunswick’s Acadian Coast north of Moncton. Pronounced (Coo-Chee-Boo-Goo-Whack)

This 238 square km national park is a gem to visit. With vast marshlands leading out to sand dunes and beaches, Kouchibouguac National Park is a must visit. Kouchibouguac means River of Long Tides in the Mi’kmaq language. Make sure to walk up the top of the high lookout over the bog trail to see the endless views and take a walk along the boardwalk to Kelly’s Beach.

17. Mount Carleton Provincial Park

Another must stop on your New Brunswick itinerary is Mount Carleton Provincial Park. Taking you off the beaten path just a little bit it’s a great way to get out to nature. Located 4 hours north of Moncton and 3 hours north of Fredericton this is truly a place to get out in nature.

Bird watchers will love spying more that 100 species. It is a hiker’s paradise with 11 trails waiting to be explored, and there is even a wheelchair-accessible trail at Williams Falls. But the star attraction here is the night skies. Mount Carleton Provincial Park is a designated dark sky preserve that makes it perfect for star gazing.

18. St. Andrews by the Sea

Visiting St. Andrews by the Sea is one of the most popular places to visit in New Brunswick. Probably because it is located close to the border of Maine, USA. When people enter Canada from Maine this is their first stop. The national historic district has been the heart and soul of the town for more than 200 years with many of the original buildings still standing.

Spend a day or two here at The Algonquin Resort located just outside of St. Andrews to experience the history and culture of the Maritimes. St. Andrews played a large part in the War of 1812 and the St. Andrews blockhouse is a national historic site that served as the Royal artillery. It is also by the sea is a popular spot for whale watching in New Brunswick. It has a lovely downtown with fine dining, luxury accommodation, galleries and boutique shopping.

19. Kingsbrae Garden

One of the star attractions is Kingsbrae Garden is home to 50,000 perennials and rated as one of Canada’s top gardens . There is a sculpture garden, a tea room, ponds, and streams sprawling through different themed gardens spanning 27 acres of the old-growth Acadian forest. You’ll also see some local wildlife as well. Kingsbrawe Garden is considered one of the top

20. Go Whale Watching

One of the main attractions in New Brunswick is definitely having the chance to go whale watching. The East Coast of Canda sees a population of migrating whales through its waters. If you book a tour here you’ll have a good chance of seeing Minke whales, humpback whales, fin whales, and the northern right whale.

21. St. Stephen’s

Not too far from St. Andrew’s is the town of St. Stephen. It is where the border to the US is located and it has built up a bit of a tourist reputation unto itself. St Stephen is home to Canada’s oldest candy company, Ganong Bros. Ltd. It has branded itself as Canada’s chocolate town and you must pick up some chocolatey goodness when you are there. There’s a lovely waterfront walk along the river too.

22. Saint George Gorge

A lesser known place to visit in New Brunswick is the Saint George Gorge. We crossed covered bridges crisscrossing their way to the picturesque Saint George Gorge. There’s a lovely photo stop the mill and waterfall. It is such a popular place for photographs, there is a spot cut out along the bridge for people to duck out of the away from traffic

23. Roosevelt Summer Estate at Roosevelt Campobello International Park

Did you know that American president Franklin Roosevelt spent his summers in New Brunswick? The Roosevelt family owned a plot of land on Campobello Island located between New Brunswick and Maine on the Bay of Funday. It was the summer home to his family and then again for Franklin and Eleanor. Since then, it has been turned into an international Park.

The Roosevelt Campobello International Park is rated as one of the top attractions in New Brunswick. Campobello Island can be reached by bridge from Main and ferry in New Brunswick from the mainland to deer Island and then onward.. This International Park is operated, funded, and administered by both the United States and Canada. Pretty cool eh?

24. Grand Manan Island

Another popular island to visit in New Brunswick is Grand Manan Island. Take a boat tour of the Bay of Fundy in search of puffins, whales, and other migrating seabirds and marine life. It is one of the best places in Canada for bird watching. With sea cliffs plunging into the Bay of Fundy, unspoiled fishing villages and scenic lighthouses, Grand Manan Island is one of the best places to visit in New Brunswick.

25. Village Historique Acadien

Acadian history is strong on the East Coast. Acadians are descendants of the French who settled in the region. When driving from Moncton to the Village, you’ll go through one of the most important Acadian towns of Shediac. It is a good compliment to the Village Historique located another 2 hours north along the Acadian Coast. The Village Historique Acadien houses 40 preserved buildings from the 1600 and 1700s.

26. Shediac

Consider booking a lobster tour in Shediac, the lobster capital of the world. Shediac is located on the Acadian Coast. It’s a good complement to the Village Historique Acadien and is a wonderful stop on an NB trip. It is also home to the world’s largest lobster!

27. Confederation Bridge

Chances are, if you are on a road trip through the East Coast, you’ll be crossing the Confederation Bridge to Prince Edward Island from New Brunswick. Confederation Bridge is an engineering marvel linking PEI to New Brunswick. At 12.9 kilometres in length (8 miles) this is the longest bridge in Canada and holds the distinction of being the longest bridge in the world to span over ice covered water. Even if you don’t cross into Prince Edward Island, it’s worth stopping to take a look at this bridge.

We can’t wait to go back to the East Coast of Canada to see more of New Brunswick. We haven’t even stepped foot in Fredricton yet! We love road side attractions and we want to get up to see the world’s largest ax in Nackawic. That must change soon.

And these are the best things to we did in New Brunswick. Have you been to New Brunswick? What should we add to our next trip?

Read More about Travels in Eastern Canada

  • 24 Fantastic Things to do in Saint John New Brunswick
  • Read our New Brunswick Road Trip – Covered Bridges and Small Towns
  • Things to do in Lunenburg Nova Scotia – Top Activities
  • Things to do in Halifax, Nova Scotia
  • Best Things to do in Nova Scotia – The Ultimate Travel Guide

A big thanks to Tourism New Brunswick f or helping us plan our first trip to New Brunswick and offering superb suggestions. We also want to shout out to Ingrid of Pivotsj.ca who helped us for more unique places in New Brunswick. Without the help of locals, we would never have explored so much of the province.

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

  • Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
  • Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

You May Also Like

20 Best Things To Do in Windsor, Canada in 2024

Glamping in Ontario: 14 Best Luxury Camping Sites To Visit In 2024

The 15 Best Spas in Ontario: Wellness Retreats To Pamper Yourself

About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

Join thousands of others who get our monthly updates!

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

1 thought on “27 Best Things to do in New Brunswick, Canada”

Great information Really looking forward to our first visit to New Brunswick.

We Explore Canada

  • Canadian Culture
  • Cross Canada Travel
  • Indigenous Tourism in Canada
  • Alberta Travel
  • British Columbia
  • Manitoba Travel
  • New Brunswick Travel
  • Newfoundland and Labrador Travel
  • Northwest Territories Travel
  • Nova Scotia Travel
  • Nunavut Travel
  • Ontario Travel
  • Prince Edward Island Travel
  • Quebec Travel
  • Saskatchewan Travel
  • Yukon Travel
  • Contests & Giveaways
  • The We Explore Canada Newsletter
  • We Explore Canada on TikTok
  • Write For Us
  • Sign up for our newsletter

The Best Places To Visit In New Brunswick: Exploring Hidden Gems And Must-See Wonders

Explore the best places to visit in New Brunswick. From charming coastal towns to pristine national parks, our guide unveils the must-visit places for an unforgettable adventure in this beautiful Canadian province.

The best things to do in New Brunswick article showing a whale tail silhouetted by a sunset

Blessed with some of the most amazing landscapes in Canada connected by a scenic network of road trips dotted with idyllic fishing villages and small cities packed with incredible museums and food experiences , New Brunswick is one of Canada’s truly underrated gems.

Bordered by Quebec to the north and Nova Scotia to the east, New Brunswick has one of the highest percentages of forested land of any province in Canada. In fact, a stunning 83% of the province is forested land.

The province may be one of the least populated per capita in the country, but what it lacks in people, New Brunswick more than makes up for in natural beauty. It’s home to the highest tides on the planet and some of the best whale watching anywhere in the world.

Among the list of the best places to visit in New Brunswick, you’ll find a range of attractions that vary from the naturally beautiful to the mind-bending. You’ll discover amazing cities packed with craft breweries and amazing local art and you’ll find quaint towns that look like they have been snatched right out of a romance novel.

So from Miramichi to Moncton , here are the top attractions to explore in New Brunswick this year.

Bay of Fundy

Whale breaching the water in the Bay of Fundy in New Brunswick

New Brunswick’s crowning attraction, the Bay of Fundy is one of Canada’s greatest natural wonders. The Bay of Fundy is a long, narrow channel between Nova Scotia and New Brunswick where a natural bottleneck paired with a shallow sea bed has made it home to the highest tides in the world.

Twice a day, 160 billion tonnes of seawater rush into the Bay of Fundy causing the water to rise and fall up to an astounding 16 metres in height, the height of a five-story building. The massive change in tides has helped to shape the magnificent landscapes along the Bay as well as allowing it to become one of the top places in the world for whale watching.

The powerful tides draw huge amounts of plankton to the Bay of Fundy, creating a feeding fest for 12 unique species of whale.

The Bay of Fundy covers a massive area, but it can be appreciated along the clifftops of Cape Enrage, by walking along the sea floor at Hopewell Rocks Provincial Park , or on the water through kayak tours or whale watching expeditions.

One of the top places to experience the Bay of Fundy is none other than Fundy National Park . This epic New Brunswick natural area borders a large section of the Bay of Fundy. It features coastal hiking and cross-country ski trails as well as many spots to witness the park’s amazing bird migrations in the spring and autumn.

Hopewell Rocks

People walk at low tide through Hopewell Rocks Provincial Park

One of Canada’s most iconic landscapes lies on the Bay of Fundy coastline in Hopewell Rocks Provincial Park. The towering flowerpots (rocks shaped into arches and pillars by the coastal tides) are sandwiched between crashing waves and towering cliffs.

The experience that visitors have at Hopewell Rocks Provincial Park depends upon the time of day that they visit. Those visiting at high tide will experience the highest tides in the world. The waves of the Bay of Fundy lapping at the rich vegetation at the top of these magnificent stone monoliths. Those who visit at low tide will see the Hopewell Rocks in all of their glory, and will even be able to stroll along the muddy ocean shore among scores of Kingfishers searching for shrimp and clams.

Hopewell Rocks Provincial Park has a fantastic interpretive center where you can learn all about the tides, the rock formations, the wildlife across the province, and more fun facts about New Brunswick helping this become one of the top places to visit in NB.

St. Andrews-by-the-Sea

St. Andrews by the Sea, New Brunswick

Whale watching is big business in New Brunswick. Up to 12 unique species of whales gather along the coast of the province during the summer to feed on the clouds of krill and small fish that gather to feed.

Along with Fin Whales, Minke Whales, North Atlantic Right Whales, and Humpback Whales, porpoises, seals, and countless bird species can be found along the shores of St. Andrews-by-the-Sea. This small fishing village on the shores of Passamaquoddy Bay has several companies that run whale-watching tours that offer an excellent chance to see these amazing marine mammals.

You can read all about St. Andrews-by-the-Sea right here .

St. Martins

Aerial view of the Saint Martins Sea Caves in New brunswick

With a population of just 276 residents, St. Martins might not stand out as one of the best places to visit in New Brunswick, that is until you’ve stepped foot inside the town.

Located 45 minutes from Saint John , St. Martins is one of the most gorgeous small towns in Canada. With two historic covered bridges, sea caves that can be explored on foot or by paddle, and a great selection of small restaurants and artisan shops, spending a day in St. Martins is an absolute delight.

The St. Martins sea caves are one of the biggest draws of this small coastal community. At high tides, these mammoth caves are completely filled by the ocean. But at low tide, you can stroll right inside them for a truly unique view of the Bay of Fundy.

Roosevelt Campobello International Park

Causeway on Campobello Island

One of the coolest places to visit in New Brunswick is a small island that’s actually co-managed by the State of Maine in the United States.

The visitors center for Roosevelt Campobello International Park is located just outside Herring Cove Provincial Park. Here you can take a ferry out to Campobello Island where former US President Franklin Roosevelt and First Lady Eleanor spent many of their summers.

The park features a historic home, four lighthouses, and more than 2,800 acres of bogs, forests, and shoreline and is a popular stop on local whale-watching tours.

Fredericton

A man and his sons look out over the St. Johns River in Fredericton, New Brunswick

Stretching along the banks of the Saint John River in the centre of the province lies the capital of New Brunswick, Fredericton.

This laid-back city of 100,000 residents may seem unassuming, but what makes Fredericton one of the top destinations in New Brunswick is more than just its location. This city has a thriving culture packed with arts, food, and one of the best museums in New Brunswick.

Historic downtown Fredericton offers up a mix of historic buildings dating back to the late 18th century when Fredericton was a crucial point for the British army.

The modern designs of the Beaverbrook Art Gallery invite visitors to dip their toes into the world of international and local New Brunswick art. And the St. Mary’s First Nation, which lies on the northeastern banks of the Saint John River is home to one of Fredericton’s best restaurants.

Whether you’re looking to paddle the St. John River, take a science journey through the Science East museum, or join the battle at the Garrison District, there are plenty of things to do in Fredericton for visitors .

Fundy Trail Parkway

Aerial view of the Fundy Trail Parkway in New Brunswick

Winding for 30 km along the coastal shore of the Bay of Fundy between St. Martins and Fundy National Park , the Fundy Trail Parkway is one of the best road trips in Canada.

This scenic drive, northeast of Saint John. The drive winds sharply past scenic lookouts and cliffside picnic areas providing jaw-dropping views of isolated beaches and flowerpot rocks.

While most people drive the Fundy Trail Parkway, there’s also a 10-kilometre pedestrian and cycling trail that parallels a section of the route near Big Salmon River. One of the highlights of hiking and biking the Fundy Trail Parkway is the impressive 84-metre-long suspension bridge that spans Big Salmon River. Those driving, you’ll pass through two historic covered bridges near the town of St. Martins.

Reversing Falls passes under a bridge in Saint John, New Brunswick

The city of Saint John is the only city in New Brunswick that lies on the shores of the Bay of Fundy. This historic hillside city is the oldest incorporated city in Canada and a visit here is one of the top things to do in New Brunswick.

Saint John is packed with great restaurants and some of the best microbreweries in Canada. The second largest city in New Brunswick mixes a historic center with a bohemian vibe where baristas steam art in tasty cappuccinos next to cutting-edge restaurants that are reclaiming a long-neglected waterfront.

The Saint John Market is the oldest continually-running market in Canada and the city’s iconic “Reversing Falls” showcases the power of the Bay of Fundy as the force of the tides reverses the flow of the St. John River twice per day.

You can read our complete guide to Saint John, New Brunswick right here .

Two women relax in a hot tub at USVA Spa Nordic on Magnetic Hill in Moncton

Home to tidal bore surfing and the mysterious Magnetic Hill, Moncton New Brunswick is one of the most popular places to travel in New Brunswick. This city constantly defies expectations.

The city along the Petitcodiac River is home to one of the province’s largest French cultural scenes thanks to its rich Acadian history. The river, which connects directly to the Bay of Fundy, see’s such a surge of water during the switch from low to high tide that the city has garnered an epic reputation among surfers.

Moncton is also home to one of New Brunswick’s most famous attractions, Magnetic Hill . This formerly eerie road that seemed to magically pull cars backward up a hill is now a full-on entertainment complex that includes waterparks, amusement rides, and a scenic wharf village.

You can read about all the things to do in Moncton here .

Cape Enrage

A rainbow in the sky over the Cape Enrage Lighthouse in New Brunswick

Perched atop the rugged Bay of Fundy coastline, Cape Enrage is one of the coolest attractions in New Brunswick.

Offering a blend of natural beauty and thrilling attractions, Cape Enrage, centred by the Cape Enrage Lighthouse, the panoramic views from the clifftop are some of the best in the province and are one of the best places to watch the rise and fall of the Bay of Fundy tides.

For those looking for an adrenaline rush, Cape Enrage offers a wealth of outdoor experiences ranging from rock climbing to ziplining. There are also sea caves and fossil-hunting to round out your visit.

Kouchibouguac National Park

People relax in Parks Canada red chairs at Kouchibouguac National Park

One of the province’s most incredible natural paradises is also one of the most beautiful places to visit in New Brunswick. Situated north of Moncton, are 238 square kilometres of marshland, lagoons, sand dunes, and beaches.

Often overshadowed by Fundy National Park and Hopewell Rocks, Kouchibouguac is one of the province’s must-visit spots for outdoor lovers. The park’s name, which translates to “River of Long Tides” in the Mi’kmaq language is popular among hikers, cyclists, and bird watchers.

Beyond its striking landscapes, Kouchibouguac National Park holds huge importance in the Acadian culture and interpretive programs that help visitors gain a better understanding of both Mi’kmaq and Acadian history and culture.

Saint George Gorge

Not all of the amazing places to go in New Brunswick are well-known. Saint George Gorge is one of the province’s hidden gems.

Carved out over millennia by the white water of the Magaguadavic River, Saint George Gorge features towering rock walls, cascading waterfalls, and lush greenery that you can experience through a collection of gorgeous hiking trails.

The gorge is a peaceful escape for both nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.  A network of bridges crisscrosses the gorge and there’s a lovely photo spot by the park’s historic old mill.

Grand Manan Island

Aerial photo of Swallowtail Lighthouse on Grand Manan Island

One of New Brunswick’s maritime gems is Grand Manan Island in the Bay of Fundy. The largest island in the Bay is famous for its pristine natural beauty and cultural heritage in the fishing and boatbuilding industries. The island boasts a rugged coastline featuring stunning sea cliffs and sandy beaches

Grand Manan is a serene escape where the rhythm of the tides dictates daily life, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking tranquility, breathtaking landscapes, and a deep connection to the sea. It’s one of the best places in Canada for birdwatching. Visitors can see swallows, gulls, and adorable puffins zipping in and around the sea cliffs that plunge into the Bay of Fundy.

A man hands a lobster to a child in Shediac, New Brunswick

The undisputed “Lobster Capital of the World,” the town of Shediac is the perfect stop for foodies checking out the best culinary experiences in New Brunswick .

Shediac is the best place in the province for lobster tours. Whether it’s one on land where you’re tasting the wild range of lobster dishes or on the water where you’re learning all about how lobsters are trapped and farmed.

Beyond all of that, Shediac is also home to one of New Brunswick’s most iconic roadside attractions, a 10-metre long, 81-tonne crustacean considered to be the largest lobster statue in the world.

Are You Ready To Explore New Brunswick For Yourself?

New Brunswick, with its wild forests and jaw-dropping coastlines, is one of the place unforgettable places to visit in Canada . From towering Hopewell Rocks to unforgettable whale watching, these places to visit in New Brunswick will inspire even more travel to the province.

Read some of the fascinating New Brunswick facts before you go so you’ll have an even better understanding of the history, culture, and magic of one of the country’s maritime wonders.

Do you have a favourite attraction or restaurant in Canada? Head over to the  We Explore Canada Facebook Community  and join the conversation! You’ll find an amazing group of people passionate about travel in Canada who love to share their local secrets.

You May Also Like To Read:

Things to do in Moncton, New Brunswick

Kevin Wagar is a founder and editor of We Explore Canada. He has been working in the travel media industry since 2015 when he founded his family travel website Wandering Wagars – Adventure Family Travel . Over the years Kevin has developed a deep love for his home country and aims to showcase the incredible experiences and amazing small businesses found within it.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

  • We Explore Canada Blog
  • Subscribe to our Newsletter

Explore New Brunswick

Restigouche River in the fall

Plan Your Trip to New Brunswick: Best of New Brunswick Tourism

Essential new brunswick.

new brunswick tourism

Trending in the forums

traveling2050

New Brunswick Is Great For

Eat & drink.

new brunswick tourism

Self-guided Tours

new brunswick tourism

Art & history

new brunswick tourism

Ports of Call Tours

new brunswick tourism

  • Bay Of Fundy
  • Campobello Island
  • Grand Manan Island
  • Trout Creek Covered Bridge
  • Saint John River Valley

new brunswick tourism

New Brunswick Tourism - Your Ultimate Guide

A wonderful gift, latest articles.

Saint_John_New_Brunswick_8078634631

ABOUT NEW BRUNSWICK

Embrace the allure of New Brunswick and discover a maritime paradise where uncharted adventures, stunning natural landscapes, and rich cultural experiences await you. As your definitive tourism guide, we invite you to explore this captivating Canadian gem. Nestled between Quebec, Nova Scotia, and the coast of Maine, New Brunswick is a treasure trove of magnificent cliffs, lush forests, gleaming waterways, and the world’s highest tides – a haven for nature lovers.

Uncover the unique appeal of this enchanting region, teeming with New Brunswick tourist attractions that reveal its beauty and cultural diversity. From its sparkling coastline to its vibrant cities, tourism NB offers an irresistible allure, promising a travel experience that is as unforgettable as the land itself.

New Brunswick Complete Travel Guide - Things To Do, Activities & Food

New Brunswick is a ways off to visit, but definitely a place you cannot miss.

Quick Links

Fast facts about new brunswick, new brunswick - accommodations, top sights, things to do & food.

  • Major Cities And Towns That Make Up New Brunswick: Saint John, Edmundston, Bathurst, Fredericton, Moncton.
  • Timezones include: Atlantic Standard Time (AST).
  • Most Populous Cities: Moncton, Fredericton, Saint John, Quispamsis-Rothesay.

Geographic Places of Note

  • Mountains to see: Mount Carleton, Appalachian Mountains, Sugarloaf Mountain, Big Bald Mountain, Chamcook Mountain, Colonels Mountain.
  • Moncton is home to Centennial Park.
  • Notable bodies of water include the Reversing Falls, Miramichi River, Saint John River, Canaan River, Hammond River, Magaguadavic River.
  • New Brunswick is home to the Fundy Trail Parkway.

MOST POPULAR DESTINATIONS IN NEW BRUNSWICK

Accommodations.

Budget-Friendly

Budget-friendly accommodations in New Brunswick are easy to find when looking for affordable places to stay in the state. Those accommodations offer basic amenities and clean rooms that meet the needs of their clients.

  • Days Inn by Wyndham Miramichi NB
  • Auberge De La Baie , Caraquet
  • Coastal Inn Moncton/ Dieppe

Mid-range accommodations are available everywhere in New Brunswick at reasonable rates. They offer the perfect combination of value-for-money and comfort. Moreover, they feature bigger rooms than their budget-friendly counterparts.

  • Residence Inn by Marriott Moncton
  • By The River B&B , Fredericton
  • Best Western Plus, Bathurst Hotel & Suites

High-end accommodations are the most luxurious in New Brunswick and feature large rooms with world-class amenities, including swimming pools, saunas, jacuzzis, and other advanced facilities.

  • The Algonquin Resort St. Andrews by-the-Sea , Autograph Collection
  • Coté's Bed & Breakfast , Grand Falls
  • Hotel Shédiac

New Brunswick Travel Guides

Top sights in new brunswick.

New Brunswick is home to marvellous sights and attractions, including the splendid Fundy National Park Of Canada, magnificent Hopewell Rocks Provincial Park, stunning Kouchibouguac National Park, Roosevelt Campobello International Park, New Brunswick Museum, Fundy Trail Parkway, Parlee Beach, and much more.

  • Parlee Beach is a must-see in New Brunswick
  • The marvelous must-visit attractions in New Brunswick

Things To Do In New Brunswick

There are plenty of activities to undertake in New Brunswick, such as hiking the Fundy Trail Parkway, whale watching from St. Andrews-by-the-Sea, and beholding the beauty of the Kingsbrae botanical garden.

  • The most interesting and amusing things to do in New Brunswick
  • Camping in this New Brunswick national park is a uniquely charming experience

Food To Discover In New Brunswick

Best foods in new brunswick.

New Brunswick is known for its delicious and savory food, such as the Poutine Rapée, Chicken Fricot, and fried clams. The province is also home to the iconic restaurants in the region.

  • Guide to New Brunswick's Acadian French cuisine

The top 10 attractions in New Brunswick

Bay of Fundy

Things to do

The highest tides anywhere are front and center when it comes to New Brunswick attractions, but history, culture and outdoor fun are all part of a truly east coast experience.

Bay of Fundy Rappel - Credit: New Brunswick Department of Tourism and Parks

Bay of Fundy

The Bay of Fundy External Link Title , home to the highest tides in the world, is a true natural wonder. These giant tides, formed by over 100 billion tons of seawater, rise up to 39 feet twice every single day, a phenomenon that has shaped the unique landscape of the coastline and entire region. The gorgeous bay can be explored in any number of ways. Walk the ocean floor at the Hopewell Rocks or rappel down cliffs into the bay at Cape Enrage. Board a boat for a whale-watching excursion and get a great photo with these ocean beasts, or hop on a ferry to three unique islands that sit in the bay, each hosting their own outdoor adventures. There's so much to do in the Bay of Fundy that we had to look at a few highlights in more detail below.

Bay of Fundy, Hopewell Rocks

Hopewell Rocks

Located on the shores of the Bay of Fundy are the famous Hopewell Rocks External Link Title , unique rock formations carved by tidal erosion over thousands of years. Dubbed the 'Flowerpot Rocks' due to their rounded appearance and vegetation-covered tops, these sandstone formations offer a unique reference point for the highest tides in the world. Visit during low tide to walk the ocean floor and look up at the massive rocks towering four storeys above your head. Then, return a few hours later and kayak among the tops of those same rocks, sitting above the waterline. Hopewell Rocks is also a great place to sunbathe on two sandy beaches, explore a network of walking trails, or enjoy a meal with a view of the bay.

Fundy National Park

Fundy National Park

Yes, Fundy National Park External Link Title is home to those same high tides, but there's so much more to see and do. The park is really an outdoor adventurer's paradise. Over 75 miles of walking and hiking trails will bring you through mountains, into valleys and forests, and past waterfalls. Rent a canoe, kayak or just swim in beautiful Bennett Lake before setting up your tent for a night in the park. For more organized outdoor fun, play a round of golf, spend the afternoon on the tennis courts, or take part in one of several annual festivals or celebrations.

Roosevelt Campobello International Park

Roosevelt Campobello International Park

You may not know that former U.S. President Franklin Roosevelt once spent his summers on Campobello Island in New Brunswick. It is his love for and history with the island that is memorialized in the Roosevelt Campobello International Park External Link Title . Here you can also visit the president's summer home, a beautiful 34-room residence, or participate in "Tea with Eleanor," tea, cookies and a conversation with an expert guide on Eleanor Roosevelt's life on Campobello. If you're more into the outdoors, you can take advantage of the park's 2,800 acres of bogs, forests and shores. Participate in the same activities Roosevelt himself enjoyed: sailing, hiking and picnicking, or check out one of the four lighthouses. 

Kingsbrae Garden - Credit: Tourism New Brunswick

Kingsbrae Garden

The 27-acre Kingsbrae Garden External Link Title is a collection of over 50,000 perennials in themed gardens that have earned it a place as one of the top 10 gardens in the country. It takes a tour to really appreciate the magnitude of this collection of flowers and plants, and Kingsbrae offers a "floral carpet ride" through the grounds on a golf cart. Beyond the flowers, you'll want to visit the Dutch windmill and lose yourself in the cedar maze. Check out the sculpture garden, which is expanded every single year. Say hello to alpacas roaming the grounds and marvel at the beauty and color of the peacocks. Play bocce or croquet and then grab lunch from an award-winning chef at the Savour in the Garden restaurant.

Swallowtail Lightstation

Swallowtail Lightstation

It wouldn't be the Atlantic coast without a historic wooden lighthouse standing tall along rocky shores. Swallowtail Lightstation External Link Title is a beacon on Grand Manan Island, and is one of the first things you see as you approach on the ferry. One of the most photographed lighthouses in New Brunswick, Swallowtail was built in 1860 before being restored only a few years ago. An observation area gives you a picturesque view of the lighthouse from a distance, or if you don't mind a steep flight of stairs, you can walk right up to the structure. Visit in the summer to climb to the top of Swallowtail, and pay a visit to the lighthouse museum underneath.

Fredericton Farmers Market

Fredericton Boyce Farmer's Market

The Fredericton Boyce Farmer's Market External Link Title is one of the top community markets in Canada. Over 250 local suppliers bring fresh produce, meats, cheeses, breads, wines and much more to the table, literally. Head to the market Saturday morning and grab everything you need for a picnic lunch. Or, chow down on some ethnic food -- like samosas or Chinese buns -- right on site, and then spend an hour browsing through local art, pottery, jewelry and other unique souvenir options. The Boyce Farmer's Market is open year round, but there's no better time to visit than the fall harvest.

Village Historique Acadien

Village Historique Acadien

It was in the 17th century that French settlers made their home in New Brunswick. The Village Historique Acadien External Link Title makes it feel like just yesterday. History comes alive as you walk among the costumed interpreters and over 40 historic buildings, each with its own story to tell. Marvel at how a family survived the tough Canadian winters in a 10x10 log home, and learn the songs and the dances that got them through. Sink your teeth into a molasses cake at an Acadian table. Do it all, and come away with a real appreciation for the perseverance of the Acadian people.

Mount Carleton Provincial Park

Mount Carleton Provincial Park

More than 42,000 acres of pristine wilderness are yours to enjoy in Mount Carleton Provincial Park External Link Title . Famous for its hiking, the park is home to 11 trails for all skill levels. If you're up for a challenge, try and reach the top of Mount Carleton, which at 2,690 feet above sea level is the highest peak in the Maritimes. The entire area is heavily wooded, and you can literally see 10 million trees from that peak. Go for a swim or camp along the shores of Lake Nictua. Mountain biking, stargazing, wildlife viewing, canoeing, and ice fishing are just a few other activities you can enjoy in Mount Carleton Provincial Park. Have you started packing yet?

Miramichi River

Miramichi River

If you're at all interested in fishing, you need to spend a day on the Miramichi River External Link Title . The waterway is famous for fly-fishing, having one of the largest Atlantic salmon runs on the east coast. But what if you're not particularly interested in landing the big one? Well, you can still hop in a canoe or kayak and explore the river at your own pace, or slow it down even more and lazily float the river in a tube. Learn about the waterway and region in a riverboat, go on a nature walk on the shoreline, or even go bear-watching. There's no shortage of ways to experience Miramichi.

Get inspired

Other articles you might enjoy

Dempster Highway, Yukon

The top fall destinations across Canada

glamping under the night sky

Best camping in Canada – with a twist

Canadian National Historic Sites

Fascinating national historic sites in Canada

Road trip through Jasper National Park

The best road trips in Canada

Tyax Wilderness Resort in Gold Bridge, BC

5 New Year’s resolutions to check off in Canada

The Town of Banff

One national park to visit in every province and territory

James Hotel, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan

Best food in Canada

Sun Yat Sen Gardens in Vancouver's Chinatown

Canada’s unique neighborhoods

new brunswick tourism

Canadian natural wonders not far from the city

Language selection

  • Français fr

Campbellton region benefits from investments in tourism and local businesses

From: Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency

News release

Federal government support will boost tourism, improve community infrastructure and help businesses in the region succeed

March 13, 2024 · Campbellton, New Brunswick · Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)

Canadian communities flourish when they have vibrant small- and medium-sized businesses, welcoming public spaces, and the infrastructure and resources needed to attract visitors. These elements are key to the overall well-being of individuals and families, creating the conditions for communities to thrive and grow.  

Today, René Arseneault, Member of Parliament for Madawaska-Restigouche, announced a total investment of $627,292 through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) for five businesses and organizations in the Campbellton region. This announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency.

This funding will help several organizations improve the community’s tourism offerings and public spaces, and also help a local business purchase new equipment to set the stage for growth. For the full list of projects, please see the backgrounder.

Today’s announcement highlights how the Government of Canada is contributing to Atlantic Canada’s momentum by strengthening our communities, helping businesses take advantage of new opportunities, and setting the stage for a strong, sustainable future.

“Innovative local businesses, resilient tourism, and welcoming public spaces – these are three key ingredients to building thriving communities. Today’s announcement will support good jobs, a strong economy, and will create more exciting opportunities for the people of Campbellton.” -  The Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA
“Investing in projects such as these reflects the Government of Canada’s commitment to build vibrant and sustainable communities. I am pleased that we are supporting the work and efforts of these businesses and associations as they grow the local economy.” - René Arseneault, Member of Parliament for Madawaska-Restigouche

Quick facts

Funding for these projects was provided under ACOA's Business Development Program and Regional Economic Growth through Innovation program.

Vélo Restigouche Cycling Inc. (Phase 1) was previously announced on May 30, 2022.  

Related products

  • Backgrounder

Associated links

  • Business Development Program
  • Regional Economic Growth through Innovation

Connor Burton Press Secretary Office of the Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister Responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency [email protected]

Samantha Michaud Senior Communications Officer Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency [email protected]

Stay connected

Follow ACOA on Facebook , Twitter , LinkedIn and Instagram .

Page details

  • Share full article

Advertisement

Canada Letter

A financial crisis may jeopardize local news in most of atlantic canada.

The main lender for SaltWire, which owns most of the region’s legacy newspapers outside New Brunswick, has moved to dissolve the publisher.

Ian Austen

By Ian Austen

Local news outlets have, of course, been in trouble in Canada and around the world for years. But now a lender has asked a Halifax court to dissolve the two companies that jointly own most of the newspapers in Atlantic Canada outside New Brunswick. And that has opened up the possibility that the region may end up without any legacy news outlets aside from broadcasters.

A web page is displayed on the screen of a laptop, with “SALTWIRE” at the top of the page above news articles under the header “Top stories in Prince Edward Island.”

Much of the trouble with the two companies — which are commonly owned and whose holdings include The Chronicle Herald in Halifax and The Telegram in St. John’s, Newfoundland, as well as The Guardian in Charlottetown — is of their own making. They have either refused to cover, or paid very little, on 40 million Canadian dollars in debts over the past five years; they owe the government just under 5 million dollars in H.S.T.; and they have funded operations using employees’ pension money.

But the move to dissolve the companies, and a corresponding filing they made for creditor protection, come at a time when news outlets large and small are facing yet another major threat to their existence. My colleague David Streitfeld writes that “there are signs that the whole concept of ‘news’ is fading.” While he was writing about the United States, it appears that his findings also apply in Canada.

[ Read: How the Media Industry Keeps Losing the Future ]

Dean Jobb, who teaches in the journalism program at the University of King’s College in Halifax, told me that the situation created by the potential collapse of the two companies, SaltWire Network and The Halifax Herald, might create a local news desert.

“It’s a real shock,” said Mr. Jobb, who worked as a reporter, an editor and a columnist at The Chronicle Herald for 20 years. “It’s not an announcement of cutbacks or layoffs or the closure of one or two papers. It’s potentially the region ending up with very little media surviving in most of its communities.”

The Chronicle Herald traces its origins to 1824 and claims to the oldest independent newspaper still operating in Canada. It’s owned, for now, by Mark Lever, its chief executive, and Sarah Dennis. Ms. Dennis is a director of The Halifax Herald and SaltWire, Mr. Lever’s spouse and the fourth generation of her family to control the Halifax newspaper.

In 2017, when the newspaper was in the midst of a strike that would last almost 19 months, The Chronicle Herald’s parent company purchased — from Transcontinental, a printer based in Montreal — a group of daily and weekly newspapers covering all of Atlantic Canada except New Brunswick. The amalgamated entity was branded as SaltWire.

Instead of paying Transcontinental 10 million Canadian dollars, the purchase price for the deal, it sued the printing company for, in its view, misrepresenting the financial state of the papers. That lawsuit continues. A court earlier this month ordered SaltWire to deposit half a million dollars to ensure that Transcontinental’s legal bills are covered if SaltWire loses.

During the expansion, the companies borrowed 32.7 million Canadian dollars from Fiera, a private lender based in Toronto. In court filings, Fiera said that the companies had been in default on those loans for five years “and have no path or timeline for repayment of the credit facilities notwithstanding the patience of the lenders.”

For now, all of the newspapers and websites can operate as usual as they pursue creditor protection. Fiera is asking the court to force the sale of all of the companies’ holdings to cover the loans.

But Mr. Jobb is among many observers who are concerned that buyers won’t be found for many of the papers or that, if they are sold, the newspapers will become just shells of what they once were. According to court filings, SaltWire lost 4.1 million Canadian dollars in its most recent fiscal year. The Herald had a 24.8 million-dollar loss, which the company attributes to pension obligations.

While private broadcasters have been cutting back on local news throughout Canada, the CBC continues to provide robust local coverage throughout Atlantic Canada. But Mr. Jobb said that was likely to diminish greatly if the Conservatives under Pierre Poilievre come to power in the next election and follow through with Mr. Poilievre’s often repeated promise to eliminate all government funding for the broadcaster’s English language services. The CBC currently receives 1.4 billion Canadian dollars from the government for its operations, English and French.

But even if the worst comes to pass, there might be one positive development. Earlier this week, my colleagues wrote that a handful of start-up media companies are finding success from learning from previous mistakes.

[Read: Sprouts of Hope in a Gloomy Media Landscape ]

While The Halifax Examiner is more a general-interest publication than those start-ups, it may benefit from any vacuum left by the SaltWire financial meltdown.

“Tim Bousquet, the editor there, has done a fantastic job,” Mr. Jobb said. “He’s made it an award-winning news outlet, and it certainly has some reach. Depending on what happens with SaltWire, maybe it will become a more of a go-to for more people.”

Trans Canada

In Travel, Rowan Moore Gerety went to Lytton, British Columbia, the town destroyed by a wildfire in 2021, and found that it ”still looks less like a town than a parking lot with a view,” adding, “People — much less tourists — have been elusive.”

Tourists are traveling to Anupaya Cabin Co., a wilderness retreat on the Ottawa River near Deep River, Ontario. It’s one of five eco-tourism destinations highlighted by Lauren Matison.

Canada’s pledge to give funds to groups that are helping both Israeli and Palestinian victims of sexual violence prompted a rebuke from an Israeli official. Canada is also among the countries that have resumed payments to the U.N. agency known as UNRWA . They had been suspended in wake of accusations from Israel that a dozen of the agency’s employees took part in Hamas-led terrorist attacks on Oct. 7.

A large study in Canada reports that women who were pregnant as teenagers were twice as likely to die before turning 31.

For anyone who lives along the path of next month’s total solar eclipse or who is planning a trip to view it, The Times has created an interactive map showing the likelihood of cloud cover.

Barry Hughson, executive director of the National Ballet of Canada, will assume that role at the American Ballet Theater, one of the largest dance companies in the United States.

In The New York Times Magazine, Phoebe Zerwick writes about what deathbed visions can give the living . Her account includes the experience of a physician from Toronto both with his father and in his medical practice.

In her review, Amy Nicholson writes that “French Girl,” a love triangle farce that largely takes place in Quebec City, has a script that is pushed “dangerously close to parody.”

Tate McRae, a musician from Calgary, is in the discussion as this week’s guests on “Popcast” have a conversation about the history of the Main Pop Girl, the top tier of stars that includes artists like Rihanna.

The Tripped Up column takes on the case of a couple whose trip to Ireland fell apart after a jet bridge at Pearson Airport in Toronto crashed into the engine of an Air Canada plane.

A native of Windsor, Ontario, Ian Austen was educated in Toronto, lives in Ottawa and has reported about Canada for The New York Times for two decades. Follow him on Bluesky at @ianausten.bsky.social

How are we doing? We’re eager to have your thoughts about this newsletter and events in Canada in general. Please send them to [email protected] .

Like this email? Forward it to your friends, and let them know they can sign up here .

Ian Austen reports on Canada for The Times based in Ottawa. He covers politics, culture and the people of Canada and has reported on the country for two decades. He can be reached at [email protected] . More about Ian Austen

#ExploreNB / Tourism New Brunswick logo

  • Bay of Fundy
  • Covered Bridges
  • Hopewell Rocks
  • Lighthouses
  • Explore All Cities & Regions
  • Campbellton
  • Fredericton
  • Moncton & Dieppe
  • Acadian Peninsula
  • Albert County
  • Charlotte County and Fundy Isles
  • Lower Saint John River Valley
  • Upper Saint John River Valley
  • Loyalist Legacy
  • Explore Outdoor Adventures
  • Paddling & Tubing
  • Boating & Sailing
  • Mountain Biking
  • Whale watching
  • Birdwatching
  • Ziplining & Aerial Adventures
  • Zoos and Aquarium
  • Snowmobiling
  • Downhill Skiing & Snowboarding
  • Cross-country Skiing & Snowshoeing
  • Winter Biking and Fat Biking
  • Dog Sledding
  • Explore Arts, Culture & Heritage
  • Art Galleries
  • Film, Theatre and Dance
  • Historic Sites
  • Inspired by NB
  • Music & Performances
  • Zoos and Aquariums
  • Explore Food & Drink
  • Apple Orchards & U-Picks
  • Chefs and Restauranteurs
  • Distilleries
  • Farmers Markets
  • Lobster & Seafood
  • Maple Syrup
  • Wineries and Cideries
  • Festivals & Events
  • Explore All Shopping
  • Made In New Brunswick
  • Plan your Visit
  • Places to Stay
  • Deals & Packages
  • Tourism Listings
  • Scenic drives
  • Exploring By Motorcycle
  • Explore By Bicycle
  • Explore By Electric Vehicle
  • All Road Trips
  • Acadian Shores
  • Appalachian Outpost
  • Ferries & Farms
  • Fundy Coast
  • Hops & Harvest
  • Miramichi River
  • Rides & Welcomes
  • Summer in NB
  • Winter in NB
  • Our Stories
  • The #ExploreNB Street Team

Naturescape: An Immersive Experience

new brunswick tourism

Immerse yourself in a three-storey adventure where every step is a journey through the sights, sounds, and flavours of New Brunswick. From our natural landscapes to vibrant cities, live musical performances and tastes of coastal cuisine, your getaway to the Maritimes starts here. 

👉 Free Admission  📆 March 16, 2024  ⏰ 11 AM – 7 PM  📍 Design Exchange at 234 Bay Street, Toronto 

Visit NaturescapeNB.ca for more information.

Event Information

new brunswick tourism

IMAGES

  1. The Top 10 Attractions in New Brunswick

    new brunswick tourism

  2. Top things to do in New Brunswick, Canada

    new brunswick tourism

  3. 19 Unique Places to Visit in New Brunswick

    new brunswick tourism

  4. New Brunswick Tourism 2021: Best of New Brunswick

    new brunswick tourism

  5. 35 Best Things To Do In New Brunswick

    new brunswick tourism

  6. Fall in Mactaquac Provincial Park // New Brunswick, Canada

    new brunswick tourism

VIDEO

  1. new Brunswick canada

COMMENTS

  1. #ExploreNB / Tourism New Brunswick

    Discover the best of New Brunswick in winter and summer, from snowmobiling and skiing to beaches and festivals. Find events, places to stay, and stories to inspire your next adventure.

  2. Planning Your Trip / #ExploreNB / Tourism New Brunswick

    Find out how to plan your trip to New Brunswick, a province with diverse attractions, activities and experiences. Learn about the Atlantic time zone, sales tax, tips, public holidays and more.

  3. Visiting New Brunswick

    Plan your trip to New Brunswick with official tourism information, travel resources, and trip planning tools. Find accommodations, places to go, things to do, and more on the official Tourism NB website.

  4. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in New Brunswick

    10. Reversing Falls Rapids. In Saint John, New Brunswick, the river of the same name reverses twice daily, with Bay of Fundy's [fundy is of Frenc... 11. Saint John City Market. Open year-round, Monday to Saturday, the Saint John City Market offers a unique shopping experience for locals and visitors alike.

  5. 18 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in New Brunswick

    Grand Manan Island. 12. Kings Landing. 14. Village Historique Acadien. 1. Bay of Fundy and Fundy National Park. Whale tail in the Bay of Fundy. Many of the attractions that make New Brunswick so appealing to tourists are directly related to the Bay of Fundy and its tides.

  6. The 15+ Best Things to Do in New Brunswick (Updated: 2023)

    New Brunswick is a beautiful province located on the east coast of Canada that offers a range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. ... Enjoying What New Brunswick Has to Offer. New Brunswick is a province that beckons travelers with its diverse tapestry of experiences and natural wonders. As we've explored the 15+ best things ...

  7. 27 Best Things to do in New Brunswick, Canada

    16. Kouchibouguac National Park. The Fundy National Park and the Hopewell Rocks tend to overshadow the rest of New Brunswick, but there are other amazing places to visit in the province. Kouchibouguac National Park is located on New Brunswick's Acadian Coast north of Moncton.

  8. The top 10 attractions in New Brunswick

    Kingsbrae Garden. The 27-acre Kingsbrae Garden is a collection of over 50,000 perennials in themed gardens that have earned it a place as one of the top 10 gardens in Canada. It takes a tour to really appreciate the magnitude of this collection of flowers and plants, and Kingsbrae offers a "floral carpet ride" through the grounds on a golf cart ...

  9. The Best Places To Visit In New Brunswick: Exploring Hidden Gems And

    Aerial view of the Fundy Trail Parkway in New Brunswick - Photo credit: New Brunswick Tourism/Nick Hawkins. Winding for 30 km along the coastal shore of the Bay of Fundy between St. Martins and Fundy National Park, the Fundy Trail Parkway is one of the best road trips in Canada. This scenic drive, northeast of Saint John.

  10. Travel to New Brunswick

    In New Brunswick, once-in-a-lifetime adventure awaits. Discover the highest tides in the world, an ocean teeming with marine life, dozens of sandy beaches, and endless opportunities to be immersed in local cultures, cuisine and nightlife. New Brunswick is home to 15 First Nations communities — including the Mi'kmaq and Wolastoqiyik — who ...

  11. New Brunswick 2024: All You Must Know Before You Go

    From the heights of the Bay of Fundy tides to the sandy beaches and warm waters of the Acadian coast, New Brunswick is home to spectacular natural wonders and first-class attractions. The Canadian province is also renowned for its outdoor adventures, natural and recreational parks, pristine rivers, lively cities, picturesque towns and vibrant ...

  12. Homepage

    HERE TO WELCOME YOU. From one end of the province to the other, adventures are waiting for you. No matter where you choose to go, you'll find people ready to welcome you, and unexpected discoveries along the way. Explore our website to see everything New Brunswick has to offer this summer for your #ExploreNB adventures.

  13. New Brunswick Tourism: Discover Your Ultimate Guide

    As your definitive tourism guide, we invite you to explore this captivating Canadian gem. Nestled between Quebec, Nova Scotia, and the coast of Maine, New Brunswick is a treasure trove of magnificent cliffs, lush forests, gleaming waterways, and the world's highest tides - a haven for nature lovers. Uncover the unique appeal of this ...

  14. Tourism

    New Brunswick is the largest of Canada's three Maritime provinces. New Brunswick tourist industry information, tourism marketing, research, statistics , events, news, vacation planning guides, accommodations and tourism services.

  15. New Brunswick Complete Travel Guide

    Discover the best places to stay, see and eat in New Brunswick, Canada's second-smallest province. Explore the Fundy National Park, the Fundy Trail Parkway, the Hopewell Rocks, the Fundy Coast and more with this comprehensive travel guide.

  16. Tourism in New Brunswick

    The number of tourists visiting New Brunswick has remained relatively stable for the years 2006 - 2013, remaining largely within the 2.5 to 3 million visitors range, with a peak of just over 3 million visitors in 2011. In 2012, tourism made up 2.4 percent of the provincial GDP, employing 8.6 percent of the labour force with 30,220 total jobs.

  17. The top 10 attractions in New Brunswick

    Swallowtail Lightstation is a beacon on Grand Manan Island, and is one of the first things you see as you approach on the ferry. One of the most photographed lighthouses in New Brunswick, Swallowtail was built in 1860 before being restored only a few years ago. An observation area gives you a picturesque view of the lighthouse from a distance ...

  18. New Brunswick Travel Guide

    Stunning scenery, vast forests, and world-class attractions characterize New Brunswick. Topping the list is the Bay of Fundy, with the highest tides in the world, marine life that includes several ...

  19. Tourism, Heritage and Culture

    Official New Brunswick Tourism Website. Perched on Canada's east coast along the Atlantic Ocean, New Brunswick is the gateway to the Maritimes and home to some of the most incredible Marine Wonders of the World.

  20. Campbellton region benefits from investments in tourism and local

    March 13, 2024 · Campbellton, New Brunswick · Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) Canadian communities flourish when they have vibrant small- and medium-sized businesses, welcoming public spaces, and the infrastructure and resources needed to attract visitors. These elements are key to the overall well-being of individuals and ...

  21. Advocate says government must change how it manages social programs or

    In his new report How It All Broke, Lamrock examines social program failures across multiple departments and makes 10 recommendations to the Executive Council and Department of Finance and Treasury Board. "Many New Brunswickers rightly wonder why a number of social services are breaking down at once," said Lamrock. "It is not a coincidence.

  22. A Financial Crisis May Jeopardize Local News in ...

    A Financial Crisis May Jeopardize Local News in Most of Atlantic Canada. The main lender for SaltWire, which owns most of the region's legacy newspapers outside New Brunswick, has moved to ...

  23. Fredericton / #ExploreNB / Tourism New Brunswick

    Welcome to New Brunswick's riverside capital. Relax with locals over a craft beer on a lively patio; dive into rich history on display throughout the city; catch a show at the theatre; explore gorgeous parks by land or water. In Fredericton, the urban comes with a delightful side of nature. Built along both sides of the meandering Saint John ...

  24. Naturescape: An Immersive Experience / #ExploreNB / Tourism New Brunswick

    Immerse yourself in a three-storey adventure where every step is a journey through the sights, sounds, and flavours of New Brunswick. From our natural landscapes to vibrant cities, live musical performances and tastes of coastal cuisine, your getaway to the Maritimes starts here. 👉 Free Admission 📆 March 16, 2024 ⏰ 11 AM - 7 PM 📍 Design Exchange at 234 Bay Street, Toronto Visit ...