Discover New Brunswick's Top Attractions
New Brunswick, nestled between Québec, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Maine, offers a surprising array of natural and cultural attractions. From the world's highest tides in the Bay of Fundy to historic cities and outdoor adventures, there's something for every traveler.
Visitors can explore miles of hiking trails, campgrounds, and sea kayaking opportunities, as well as historic homes and museum villages. The province's largest cities include Saint John, Moncton, and the capital, Fredericton, with most attractions located near the scenic coast.
1. Bay of Fundy and Fundy National Park
The Bay of Fundy is renowned for its high tides, dramatic cliffs, sea caves, and rock formations. Natural phenomena like Moncton's tidal bore and Saint John's Reversing Falls are a must-see. Fundy National Park offers year-round wilderness adventures, including hiking, bird watching, and winter skiing. Nearby Alma village boasts beautiful waterfalls and park facilities like campgrounds and a golf course.
Official site: https://www.pc.gc.ca/pn-np/nb/fundy
2. Hopewell Rocks
At Hopewell Rocks, visitors can witness the dramatic difference between high and low tides. Walk among the sea stacks at low tide or kayak around them during high tide with Baymount Outdoor Adventures.
Official site: http://www.thehopewellrocks.ca/
3. The Fundy Trail Parkway
This scenic coastal drive near Saint John offers stunning views of cliffs, beaches, and marine wildlife. Visitors can explore the area via a pedestrian and bicycle trail, visit the interpretive center at Big Salmon River, and cross the 84-meter suspension footbridge.
Official site: http://www.fundytrailparkway.com/
4. Whale Watching from St. Andrews-by-the-Sea
St. Andrews is a prime location for whale watching, with up to 12 species visiting the Bay of Fundy. Various companies offer different whale watching experiences, and the town itself is rich in history and attractions like the Huntsman Marine Science Center and Kingsbrae Garden.
5. Roosevelt Campobello International Park
The summer estate of Franklin D. Roosevelt on Campobello Island is a key attraction, offering insights into the lives of the Roosevelts and the island's natural beauty.
Official site: https://www.rooseveltcampobello.org/
6. Reversing Falls, Skywalk, and Stonehammer Geopark
In Saint John, witness the Reversing Falls, where the Bay of Fundy tides cause the river to flow backward. The Skywalk offers a unique vantage point, and the Stonehammer Geopark delves into the region's geological history.
Official site: https://stonehammergeopark.com/experience/skywalk-saint-john/
7. Fredericton's Garrison District
Explore the historic Garrison District in Fredericton, where you can watch the Changing of the Guard and visit several museums, including the Fredericton Region Museum and the School Days Museum.
8. Kingsbrae Garden
St. Andrews-by-the-Sea is home to Kingsbrae Garden, a botanical wonder with themed gardens, sculptures, and a children's garden.
Official site: www.kingsbraegarden.com
9. Boyce Farmers Market
Fredericton's Boyce Farmers Market is a bustling hub for local produce, crafts, and ready-to-eat foods, making it a perfect Saturday morning destination.
Official site: http://frederictonfarmersmarket.ca/
10. Historic Saint John
Saint John boasts some of Canada's best Victorian architecture and a rich Loyalist history. Explore the city's historic streets and visit the City Market for local flavors and crafts.
11. Grand Manan Island
Grand Manan Island is a birdwatcher's paradise and a base for whale-watching, with a charming fishing community atmosphere.
12. Kings Landing
Kings Landing brings to life the history of rural New Brunswick with interactive exhibits and a living historical village.
Official site: http://kingslanding.nb.ca
13. Explore the St. Martins Sea Caves
The sea caves at St. Martins are a testament to the power of the Fundy tides, offering a unique experience at both high and low tides.
14. Village Historique Acadien
This museum village showcases the lives of Acadian settlers with preserved homes and workshops, complete with costumed interpreters.
Official site: https://villagehistoriqueacadien.com/en
15. Parlee Beach and Kouchibouguac National Park
Enjoy the warm waters and fine sands of Parlee Beach and explore the diverse ecosystems of Kouchibouguac National Park.
Official site: http://www.pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/nb/kouchibouguac
16. Magnetic Hill and Magnetic Hill Zoo
Experience the optical illusion of Magnetic Hill and visit the Magnetic Hill Zoo, the largest in Atlantic Canada.
Official site: https://www.moncton.ca/magnetichillzoo
17. Irving Nature Park
Just outside Saint John, Irving Nature Park offers trails, birdwatching, and scenic views of the Fundy tides.
18. Cape Enrage
At Cape Enrage, visitors can enjoy panoramic views, outdoor activities, and discover ancient fossils on the beach.
Official site: http://www.capeenrage.ca/
Exploring Beyond New Brunswick: After visiting New Brunswick, consider crossing the Confederation Bridge to Prince Edward Island or driving to Nova Scotia for more Atlantic Canada adventures.
