Discover the Insights of Canada: 15 Places to Visit

Canada offers a wealth of breathtaking scenery and intriguing landmarks for tourists to discover. In Canada, there are many locations to visit. The nation is home to stunning natural beauties and thriving cities with a diverse cultural heritage.

The Okanagan Valley, Victoria, The Rocky Mountains, Vancouver,  and Calgary are some of the top tourist destinations in Western Canada and typically top travel itineraries. In Central Canada, the biggest tourist attractions include Niagara Falls, Montreal, Ottawa, and Quebec City Toronto.

For those who journey to eastern Canada’s Atlantic Provinces, Gros Morne National Park’s beauty as well as Halifax and St. John’s, provide their distinctive personalities.

Off the usual road but no less magnificent is Canada’s North, where massive rivers flow out to the Arctic Ocean, providing canoeists with some amazing terrain and allowing them to witness polar bears in the wild.

The distant beauty of locations like Whitehorse, Yellowknife, Great Slave Lake, the towns and cities of Churchill, and the Nahanni National Park can be discovered by tourists. While planning your holiday, get ideas from our list of the greatest tourist sites in Canada.

Places to Travel: In Terms of Canada

1. Niagara Falls

Canada’s most well-known natural landmark, Niagara Falls, welcomes millions of tourists each year.

These enormous falls, which are about an hour’s drive from Toronto and close to the American border, have a 57-meter plunge. From a number of noteworthy locations, you may see the falls at an astonishingly close distance. Among all the tourist destinations in Canada, Niagara Falls is one of the most captivating.

Since a significant number of decades ago, tourists and thrill seekers have been attracted to Niagara Falls and the Niagara Gorge. There were several efforts to jump beyond the falls throughout the middle of the 19th and middle of the 20th centuries, utilizing several kinds of barrels and homemade boats.

Due to this, the nearby town of Niagara Falls saw tightrope walkers and other shows, as well as a carnival-like atmosphere that is still palpable today. Families will delight in taking a trek down Niagara’s Clifton Hill, which opens up to the gorge and waterfall.

A boat ride to the foot of the falls, climbing the Skylon Tower for a breathtaking view, and taking part in the experience of the route behind the Falls to witness the falls from the bottom up are some of the other popular things to do in this region.

The Icy Canada team talked to Martin Wagner, COO of Go Real Travel, about the essential factors to consider when considering a trip to Canada. Here is what he said:

“Honestly, one of my favorite things about Canada is undoubtedly its stunning landscapes, which are nothing like you’ve seen before. The Canadian Rockies, for instance, are breathtaking with their towering snow-capped peaks and deep blue, glacier-fed lakes.

There’s something truly special about trekking to a quiet spot and being surrounded by spectacular vistas in every direction. Canada is a haven for those who adore nature.

With one of the longest ski seasons globally, numerous UNESCO World Heritage sites, and some of the most astounding natural wonders on Earth, it’s no wonder that vacations in Canada are highly favored by many.

And one of the most captivating experiences, in my experience, is exploring the great outdoors. With its scenic coastlines, grand mountains, vast prairies, and charming forests, it’s clear that Canada boasts some truly impressive scenery.

While places like Niagara Falls and the Rocky Mountains are well-known symbols of Canada’s natural beauty, there are plenty of other areas to discover.

The variety of landscapes and cultures across the different territories and provinces is remarkably diverse, with some areas known for their icefields and mountains, and others for top-tier beaches and coastlines.

The great outdoors is a major draw for countless visitors who come to Canada from around the world, offering numerous activities to partake in and endless scenic spots to photograph.”

2. The Rocky Mountains and Banff National Park

The breathtaking Rocky Mountains of Alberta are home to Banff National Park, which has some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the country.

Glaciers, snow-capped slopes, and turquoise lakes are all conveniently available in this spectacular park. Embark on a romantic drive or one of Banff’s greatest treks.

The park’s jewel is Lake Louise, where visitors may simply stroll along the shoreline while the lake’s water which is green will reflect the glaciers and adjacent mountains in their reflections.

Moraine Lake, another stunning alpine lake with more beautiful surroundings, is only a short distance away.

Another must-visit place in Banff is the Icefields Parkway, which is between Lake Louise and Jasper.

The charming tiny town of Banff, which offers a variety of alternatives for lodging, shopping, eating, and entertainment, is located near the park’s southernmost point. The best ski resorts in Canada, Lake Louise Ski Resort and Sunshine Village, are both located in the popular winter sports region of Banff.

3. Toronto CN Tower and Royal Tyrrell Museum in Drumheller

3.1. Toronto CN Tower

One of Canada’s most recognizable structures, the CN Tower, is located in the country’s largest metropolis on the Lake Ontario shore. The skyscraper dominates the skyline at an amazing 553 meters in height.

At the summit, there is superb cuisine at the 360 restaurants, where you may eat and take in the views of the city and lake. Beautiful panoramas of the entire area may be seen from there.

Consider leaving the enclosed space and proceeding onto the metal CN Tower Edgewalk walkway for extra excitement. After being secured by a harness, you’ll be able to stroll around the structure as it rises 116 storeys above the ground.

However, even those who decide against climbing the tower will go and climb the tower pausing to take in the view of the building, which can be seen practically anywhere in the city. The tower is colored and illuminated at night.

3.2. Royal Tyrrell Museum in Drumheller

The Royal Tyrrel is a must-visit dinosaur museum and one of the best in the world. Dinosaurs discovered nearby are shown in amazing exhibits in a top-notch environment. You will be taken back 3.9 billion years to the time when dinosaurs ruled the earth as you explore the 13 galleries.

It will make you feel very little to be standing next to these enormous beings. It’s not all indoors during a visit here. On the museum grounds, be sure to spend some time exploring the informative hiking trails.

4. Old Quebec (Vieux-Quebec) and Old Montreal

Of all the places to travel, Old Quebec and Old Montreal are definite must-visits.

4.1. Old Quebec

Old Quebec is one of Canada’s historical treasures and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The majority of the city’s historic structures are dispersed among the Upper and Lower Town of Quebec.

The Lower Town, along the St. Lawrence River, is where the first settlement took place and is also where the magnificent Fairmont Le Château Frontenac and many other gems can be found.

The Upper Town, situated on rocks that rise 100 metres, contains the Citadel, the Plains of Abraham, Place d’Armes, and the Parque Historique de l’Artillerie. One of Canada’s most well-known historical regions, Old Quebec, has a thriving tourism industry.

Along with the historical locations, additional attractions include the artists on display on Rue du Trésor, intriguing organizations like the Musée de la Civilisation, and distinctive eateries and stores.

4.2. Old Montreal

An excellent spot to go for fantastic shopping and fine dining is Old Montreal, which is dotted with gorgeous old buildings. Even though Montreal is a thriving, contemporary city, you should visit Old Montreal near the riverside to experience the vibe.

The historic Marché Bonsecours in the former town hall, the inside of the stunning Notre-Dame Basilica, the bustling Place Jacques-Cartier, and the 1870s City Hall are just a few of the must-see locations in Old Montreal.

Carly Hill, Operations Manager at Virtual Holiday Party, advised embracing Canada’s multicultural and adventurous spirit. Here is what she had to say:

“I am attracted by the multicultural spirit of the country. While on the same note, I envision immersing myself in the lively energy of Toronto with its global cuisines, I also see myself walking down beautiful cobblestone streets with a distinctly European feel when I think of Quebec City.

This juxtaposition of cultures provides a rare chance to explore Canada’s heritage in a single trip.

Moreover, I always love a bit of adventure. Canada has what it takes, and indeed much more, in the variety of outdoor pursuits. The idea of thrilling white-water rapids on a white-water rafting trip, or perhaps dog-sledding across a snowy expanse, is likely to offer a rush of excitement.

The opportunity to see iconic wildlife such as bears or moose adds a further dimension to the adventurous spirit that takes a person into the Canadian wilderness.”

5. Whistler and Dawson City

5.1. Whistler

Only a two-hour drive from Vancouver lies the well-known ski resort of Whistler Blackcomb and the year-round resort town of Whistler.

Whistler has long been a popular winter sports destination, but it has also developed into a popular summer getaway with year-round activities like golf and mountain biking.

When the village was chosen as one of the Olympic venues for the 2010 Winter Games, it attracted attention on a global scale. The region offers first-rate lodging, eating, and skiing in addition to a wide range of outdoor activities and stunning mountain vistas.

5.2. Dawson City

A visit to Dawson City is a must when in Canada! The community there has done an excellent job of preserving the old structures from the 19th-century gold rush.

For a genuine historical experience, ride a paddle wheeler on the Yukon River which flows right by the city.

6. Parliament Hill in Ottawa and Canadian Museum for Human Rights

6.1. Parliament Hill in Ottawa

Ottawa’s Parliament Hill, which towers over the upper Ottawa River, is made beautiful by the Neo-Gothic-style Parliament buildings that were built in the second part of the 19th century.

The Peace Tower, which separates the Senate and the House of Commons on both sides, is the most noticeable element.

The Canadian Confederation’s 100th anniversary was celebrated in 1966 by lighting the Centennial Flame in front of the Parliament buildings, which are surrounded by a sculpture park.

On the front lawn of the Houses of Parliament throughout the summertime, The Changing of the Guard occurs. Under Parliament Hill, there is a pleasant trail that follows the Ottawa River.

6.2. Canadian Museum for Human Rights

Winnipeg’s newest top tourist attraction, the Canadian Museum for Human Rights, has drawn attention on a local, national, and even worldwide level.

The structure, which was opened in 2014 close to The Forks, has a singular design that is, to put it mildly, eye-catching, with geometry and hues inspired by photographs of Canadian nature.

The museum’s design is also distinctive, and choosing which history to include here caused some controversy. The museum emphasizes individual experiences, captures many viewpoints, and focuses on a variety of themes.

7. National Historic Site on Signal Hill in St. John’s

At the doorway to St. John’s port, the Signal Hill National Historic Site provides views of both the city and the ocean. In 1901, this place received the first transatlantic wireless communication. The present-day during the wars of 1812, the walls were constructed., but they also had a significant impact in the Seven Years’ War with France.

One of the most important places on Signal Hill is the Cabot Tower. For the 400th anniversary of Newfoundland’s discovery, it was constructed in 1897.

The first transatlantic radio telegraphy transmission from Poldhu in England was received by Guglielmo Marconi in 1901 at a distance of 2,700 kilometers, and he is currently recognized for that accomplishment. It is worth visiting.

8. Polar Bears in Churchill and Manitoba, and Rideau Canal

8.1. Polar Bears in Churchill, Manitoba

One of Canada’s most distinctive tourist landmarks is the movement of polar bears from the land to the glacier in Hudson Bay, close to the northern Manitoban settlement of Churchill.

This little town welcomes visitors each fall. For up-close polar bear sightings, visitors are taken on trips in caged-window tundra buggies.

The greatest time to observe bears is in October or November when before going out onto the ice, they are awaiting for the river to freeze.

8.2. Rideau Canal

Optimal for ice skating, the 200 km (124 mi) waterway, which has been in use for 185 years and is made up of canals, rivers, and lakes, connects Ottawa and Kingston via 47 locks. The Rideau Canal is at its finest during the winter months in Ottawa, when the Rideau Canal Skateway, the world’s biggest ice skating rink, is constructed on a portion of the canal.

On the 7.8 kilometers (4.8 miles) of groomed ice, people zip by while stopping for hot chocolate and delicious beavertails (a quintessentially Canadian treat). The Winterlude celebration in February takes it to the next level when locals create enormous ice sculptures.

We interviewed Jess Rodley, Bookings Director of Andorra Escapes, about the most appealing Canadian aspects travelers must embrace. Here is what she said:

“As an avid traveler, outdoor enthusiast, and someone fortunate enough to call Whistler, BC, home for several years while on working-holiday visas, it’s both the natural beauty and adrenaline-inducing activities that are most important to me.

British Columbia’s Sea-to-Sky corridor, Sunshine Coast, and Vancouver Island offer a smorgasbord of opportunities to travelers looking to immerse themselves in the pristine wilderness or get their hearts pumping.

What I find most appealing is that there’s so much to do, regardless of the season.

Skiing, snowboarding, downhill and cross-country mountain biking, hiking, swimming, or chilling beside an alpine lake—come sunshine, snow, or any weather in between, Canada is bursting with options to be active while surrounded by some of the most breathtaking scenery out there.”

9. Vancouver Island

People visit Victoria, the British Columbian province’s capital, for tourism and culture, but if you move farther north into the island’s rocky and lonely sections, you could have some spectacular and unexpected encounters.

Nature lovers may camp in some breathtaking locations and stroll along some of the greatest trails on Vancouver Island. For those wanting more comfort, staying at one of the island’s hotels or resorts is always an option.

The woods of enormous trees, some of which are more than a thousand years old, are among the island’s most spectacular vistas.

The historic trees of Eden Grove, close to Port Renfrew, are within a day’s drive of Victoria.

Moving up the island, you may also visit Tofino or Cathedral Grove to observe even more gigantic trees, both of which are near to Port Alberni.

Tofino which regardless of being small is a wildly popular off-the-beaten-path tourist town is close to the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, which has great hiking trails, some of Canada’s largest trees, endless beaches, top-notch surfing spots, camping areas, and places where you can just unwind and enjoy the peace and quiet of nature.

Tofino is a popular vacation spot all year long, but during storm season, which lasts from November to March, many tourists flock there to take in the impressive waves that come crashing ashore. Others simply want to unwind by a fire at one of Tofino’s quaint lodges while taking in the Pacific Ocean. Some come to surf.

Other locations on the island include Qualicum Beach, Nanaimo, and Parksville, all of which are on the eastern shore and provide views of the Salish Sea. Explore Cape Scott Provincial Park in the island’s extreme north if you want to get away from it all.

10. The Bay of Fundy and Baffin

10.1. The Bay of Fundy

The Bay of Fundy, located in Eastern Canada between New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, is famous for its extraordinary tides. The distance between high and low is the greatest on Earth, with a maximum difference of 19 meters.

Cliffs and rocky outcroppings at Hopewell Cape, Fundy National Park, the Fundy Trail Parkway, and Grand Manan Island are a few of the Bay of Fundy’s most well-known attractions. There are plenty of other ways to enjoy this natural treasure.

10.2. Baffin

Known best for breathtaking landscapes and Inuit art, Baffin Island’s desolate, wild landscape is home to mountains that soar into the clouds and one-third of Nunavut’s people.

It is the fifth-largest island in the world and the largest island in Canada, making it the perfect location for an arctic safari where you may see bears, beluga whales, and narwhals in their natural habitat.

The crown gem of the island is Auyuittuq National Park, which translates to “the place that never melts.” Glaciers, fjords, and precarious cliffs dot the eastern horizon. Hardcore hikers, climbers, and polar bears are all drawn to the area by its allure.

Additionally, Baffin is a center for Inuit art; across the region’s several small settlements, there are workshops for fine carving, printmaking, and weaving.

11. Victoria’s Inner Harbour

In front of the port, this is a terrific spot for wandering, unwinding, shopping, eating, and enjoying street entertainers.

The area’s main point is the former Empress Hotel, one of the most stunning buildings in the city. Kings and queens have resided at The Empress over the years. Today, it serves a classic high tea, which is one of Victoria’s top attractions for visitors.

12. Gros Morne National Park

Despite being farther distant than many of Canada’s most popular national parks, Gros Morne National Park in Newfoundland is definitely worth the trip to experience this breathtaking mountain and fjord landscape.

The park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to spectacular rock formations carved by glacier-fed rivers, tall mountain walls, and waterfalls.

Although there are hiking and paddling paths, boat trips are the most common way for visitors to enjoy the splendor.

The park is open for ski touring in the winter even though it sees much fewer people and has backcountry ski lodges.

13. Vancouver’s Stanley Park and Calgary Stampede

13.1. Stanley Park of Vancouver

Stanley Park is one of Vancouver’s biggest assets and is conveniently situated on the west side of the city area. Huge Douglas fir and red cedar trees line the park’s peninsula, which is encircled by the ocean. A significant walking, running, and path to bike surrounds the park on the seawall, with separate lanes for each stroller and cyclist.

There are various pullouts along the picturesque drive that passes through Stanley Park. The park’s attractions include the picturesque Stanley Park Pavilion, Beaver Lake, and the Rose Garden. There are several totem poles, some of which date back more than 100 years, that are also quite fascinating. In the spring, cherry trees bloom in a magnificent show.

13.2. Calgary Stampede

The Calgary Stampede, which lasts for ten days, is Western Canada’s most eagerly anticipated occasion.

The city of Calgary transforms into a real western town during this week in July, with people who might typically wear suits to work donning jeans and cowboy boots instead.

Daily rodeo competitions that bring competitors from all across North America, thrill rides, entertainment, food, and the evening Grandstand Show can all be found at the Stampede Grounds.

Numerous businesses in the area hold free “Stampede Breakfasts,” which can take place indoors or outdoors and typically feature pancakes. For this festival, a lot of well-known country music artists often visit the city.

14. Valley of the Okanagan

It is claim that the Okanagan Valley is positioned on the hospitable side of the mountains from nearby Alberta. It is undeniably the case that this long valley serves as the playground for Western Canadians in the summer. Large lakes dominate the valley bottom, and you could discover some of British Columbia’s nicest beaches here.

Away from the busy city, canoeing, sailing, and pleasure boating are all common sports with joyful people having a wonderful time.

Farms growing some of Canada’s best fruit, including peaches, pears, cherries, and plums among many others, may be found along the gentle slopes rising from the lakes.

There are several places to stay; Penticton and Kelowna both provide high-quality lodging. The Okanagan is slightly quieter in the winter, but when it snows, people flock to some of British Columbia’s top ski resorts, such as Apex, Big White, Sun Peaks, and Silver Star.

15. Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park

In Canada, the country of Saskatchewan in particular, and Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park, are commonly overlooked. They don’t get as many tourists since they’re so far away, but those who do come here are well rewarded. Open areas, expansive skies, and a profusion of (rare) fauna are typical in this region.

Additionally, there is a general air of calmness.

Learn about frontier life in the late 19th century by visiting the Fort Walsh National Historic Site.

That concludes our list of Canada’s top travel destinations.

But we’re confident that we haven’t included all of Canada’s must-see locations. Perhaps you’ve gone someplace that you feel belongs on our fantastic Canadian bucket list.

Plan your trip to Canada as soon as possible you will cherish the time you spend in Canada for the rest of your life!

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Guest Author: Saket Kumar

Last Updated on July 30, 2024 by Sathi Chakraborty