If you’re among the many Canadians planning to travel the country this summer, the good news is there’s no shortage of destinations to check out. From the Rocky Mountains to beautiful beaches and everywhere in between, Canada is known for its gorgeous scenery and friendly towns.
Recently, The Current called on Canadians to help curate a list of the best places to visit in the country. More than 50,000 votes later, and the results are in. Here are the Top 10 places to visit in Canada, in alphabetical order, as voted on by Canadians.
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Basin Head Provincial Park, PEI
Many of us think about travelling to Prince Edward Island to see Anne of Green Gables tourist spots or shuck oysters like Carly Fortune’s characters in This Summer Will Be Different. But Basin Head is also a beautiful destination with its Singing Sands, red rock cliffs and dunes. It’s an excellent spot for couples, families, and even nature lovers who want to check out the marine protected area and the fisheries museum. And while you can’t camp directly in the park, there are plenty of camping grounds nearby to check out.
Bonavista, NL
If you’re heading to Newfoundland and Labrador this summer, you’ve probably already got Canada’s oldest city, St. John’s, on your bucket list. And why wouldn’t you, with the array of delicious restaurants, lookout points and friendly people? However, it’s also worth heading across the Atlantic Ocean to Bonavista. The quaint town was built on an open plain, so there are plenty of historic homes and shops. There’s also a ton of wildlife to see, like whales and puffins. You can trek from St. John’s in just under four hours by car, or plan some stops in towns like Dildo or Arnold’s Cove.
Cape Breton Island, NS
If you’re heading to Nova Scotia, be sure to take in the Cabot Trail, the nearly 300-kilometer loop around the tip of Cape Breton Island. The breathtaking views are unparalleled, with mountains and beaches. Cape Breton has a lot of other memorable stops, too, including the fortress at Louisburg, whale watching and Glenora Distillery, home of Canada’s first single-malt whiskey. Plan your visit around local festivals, the whale migration or any other itinerary that floats your boat.
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Amherst to Masstown, NS
Sometimes a road trip is the vacation, so if you’re the type who loves driving around and exploring, Canadians recommend the drive between Amherst and Masstown in Nova Scotia. On the four-hour trek you can check out the Bay of Fundy and various food stops, plus the shores of Minas Basin where colourful tidal pools await. There are also plenty of small shops to check out, including the historic Masstown Market.
Gros Morne National Park, NL
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is another beautiful reason to visit Newfoundland and Labrador this summer, with its Long Range Mountains, waterfalls and Tablelands. At this national park, you can check out fjords formed by glaciers, tectonic plate rock formations and a 17-kilometre loop hike to the park’s highest point. Book a campsite and stay amongst the natural wonders, or grab a day pass and book a guided tour.
Manitoulin Island, ON
Check out the world’s largest freshwater island this summer, where beautiful beaches and a rich Indigenous culture make for a memorable visit. You can walk behind a waterfall, swim in the basin, check out nature at the Eco Park, or head to the Ojibwe Cultural Foundation. The Manitoulin Brewing Company is one of several restaurants available for bites and features live events, or you can book a campsite and cook up your own grub, too.
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Quebec City, QB
There are plenty of beautiful places to visit in La Belle Province, but if you want to experience city life with historical sights, Quebec City is the place to be. The city has preserved much of its original architecture and roads, giving it a European feel. Old Quebec is a UNESCO World Heritage Site (and the only fortified city in Canada), so there are plenty of festivals to check out. It’s also a top foodie destination, close enough to nature to enjoy the outdoors and features an array of stays and tours.
Saint Andrews, NB
People often travel to Moncton when visiting New Brunswick, but head west to the seaside town of Saint Andrews for an abundance of charm. The town is a national historic site and features amazing architecture with more than 140 original buildings. It also boasts several award-winning restaurants, breathtaking water views and wildlife, including whales. Its proximity to the Bay of Fundy is another reason to visit, making Saint Andrews a quaint but essential Canadian destination.
Stratford, ON
Theatre lovers have long waxed poetic about this thespian town, known for its annual Shakespearean Festival. So, of course, the local arts scene is worth checking out. However, there are plenty of other reasons to visit Stratford, including its historic storefronts, gardens and slew of notable dining options. There are also local breweries and distilleries to check out, unique shops and historic buildings that make this destination extra special.
Tofino, BC
Surfing is a big attraction in Tofino, where many water lovers have deemed it one of the best surf spots in the country. But beautiful waters aren’t the only thing this small town is known for. Tofino is surrounded by gorgeous wildlife, including inlets, lakes and rainforests. Sandy beaches are another draw, but so are the hiking trails, hot springs and food options. Stay in town, by the beach or in a cabin, or bring your RV or tent and enjoy the sprawling scenery.
