The Atlantic province of Canada known as New Brunswick is a place of dramatic scenery, amazing outdoor recreation, and plenty of cultural events to keep any traveler entertained. It’s also filled with friendly locals, delicious seafood, and the highest tides in the world. There are many different ways to explore this unique region, depending on whether you make up your own route or take advantage of the experiences of a knowledgeable local guide. Either way, here are some of the best ways to spend your vacation in New Brunswick.
Reversing Falls
What Is It?: One of the top tourist attractions and an epic natural phenomenon in New Brunswick is Reversing Falls. The local tides cause the flow of the Saint John River to be forced back and reverse in the opposite direction, which is truly a sight to see for yourself.
Why Do It?: From Fallsview Park, you can see the falls during multiple tidal stages to see impressive whitewater pools, rapids, and waves.
Good to Know: Guided tour routes often include a stop to see Reversing Falls, along with local wineries and the historic fishing village of St. Martins. Consider having a meal at the restaurant at the falls for incredible views.
Saint John City Market
What Is It?: Saint John City Market is the oldest continuously operating farmer’s market in the country and a beloved tradition since 1876. The market spans a city block and is a great place to sample local foods, grab a coffee, and pick up souvenirs made by local artisans.
Why Do It?: There’s something for everyone at the Saint John City Market, which is an essential sightseeing stop for first-time visitors.
Good to Know: You can incorporate a visit to Saint John City Market as part of a larger tour experience, such as a food-themed tour, city walking tour, or private guided tour of the market. Saturday is a particularly busy day at the market with even more merchants in the vendor lineup.
Kouchibouguac National Park
What Is It?: Kouchibouguac National Park is on the Acadian coast of New Brunswick and offers ocean beaches, salt marshes, and lush forests. It offers dark skies for star-watching, winter recreation in the snow, and sandy beaches with warm waters in the summer.
Why Do It?: This national park is a year-round destination and an affordable one.
Good to Know: Meet up at the wigwam at Callanders Beach to learn about historical traditions and folklore from a Mi’gmaq First Nations interpreter. Bilingual and English-only programs are available.
Bay of Fundy
What Is It?: The Bay of Fundy is an iconic stretch of coastline that is home to dramatic rock formations, beaches, and even zip lining opportunities. Approximately 100 billion tons of water flow in and out of the Bay of Fundy twice per day.
Why Do It?: This is where you can experience the highest tides in the world. When the tide is high, you can kayak by the coast. Then when the tide is low, you can walk through the area to see the rock formations up close.
Good to Know: Hopewell Rocks is a perfect area for walking, kayaking, or sunbathing depending on the tide situation at the time. There is also much more to do in Fundy National Park, such as hiking through the mountains and camp overnight in a tent.
Kings Landing
What Is It?: Kings Landing is open from June through November and offers activities, workshops, and a museum to learn about rural life in New Brunswick during the 19th century. There are opportunities here to experience blacksmithing, milking cows, gardening, and much more.
Why Do It?: Kings Landing is an essential place to visit for the day for families and anyone who enjoys history.
Good to Know: To learn about specific aspects of the historic village, consider joining a guided tour. You can see a lot more of the site if you hop on one of the free horse and carriage rides to get around.
Roosevelt Campobello International Park
What Is It?: The former U.S. president Franklin Roosevelt used to spend his summers on Campobello Island right here in New Brunswick, which is why there’s an international park here to commemorate his summer home. This beautiful residence can be explored on a tour with a guide.
Why Do It?: Not only is it interesting to learn about American/Canadian history while you’re in this part of New Brunswick, but you can also check out the lighthouses and enjoy outdoor recreation opportunities.
Good to Know: This international park is home to around 2,800 acres of forests, shores, and other natural landscapes to explore once you’ve toured the historic home.
Moncton and the Beach Towns
What Is It?: Moncton is known as Atlantic Canada’s “entertainment capital” and offers nightlife, family fun, dining, and shopping. Meanwhile, New Brunswick offers some quaint beach towns and popular beaches, such as Parlee Beach and Alma Beach.
Why Do It?: Seaside resort towns are charming and laid-back, offering you excellent opportunities to slow down your pace of travel and enjoy the local culture.
Good to Know: Beach towns are also great places to try the local seafood and enjoy some delicious lobster, chowder, or fried clams. It’s also fun to do a tourist scavenger hunt to get to know Moncton better and discover new things about this destination.
Miramichi River Recreation
What Is It?: Another great way to get outside and enjoy the nature of New Brunswick is to spend some time on the Miramichi River. This is a big fly fishing destination known for its Atlantic salmon.
Why Do It?: The river is easily accessible in New Brunswick for personal recreation and guided experiences. It’s also a beautiful place to spend a warm summer day.
Good to Know: If you’re not into fishing, you can also experience the river life on the Miramichi by renting a canoe or kayak, floating down the river in a tube, or taking a scenic ride on a riverboat tour.
