Discovering Canada’s 20 Famous Places

Canada is one of the most beautiful countries located in the north of North America. Being the second-largest country in the world, it commands most of North America.

Find out about urban life or breathtaking stunning scenery in Canada. Everything is here, from landscape to history to culinary.

Canada, the second-largest country in the world, offers a wealth of breathtaking scenery and intriguing landmarks for tourists to discover. The nation is home to stunning natural beauties and thriving cities with a diverse cultural heritage.

Famous Places In Canada

Canada has more than 100 beautiful and famous places all over the country, which are a must-visit. So let us begin exploring them, starting with these top 20 famous places in Canada.

1. Niagara Falls

How can we describe Niagara Falls as a beautiful, eye-catching view of a collection of 3 waterfalls at the same location with a never-seen mass of water and the world’s highest flow rate?

Located in Ontario, Niagara Falls is the foremost fascinating thing about Canada. Since 1880, these famous places have been known as the “HONEYMOON CAPITAL OF THE WORLD” because of their romantic atmosphere, famous places, and amazing views.

Photo by Jam Norasett from Shutterstock

Moreover, it is also a fun destination for all age groups, with winery visits, water park outings, and boat tours around the falls.

Niagara Falls is also used to generate electricity using hydropower source techniques. It produces one-fourth of the electricity for New York, Ontario, America, and Canada and is also one of the most famous places in Canada.

2. Whistler

Whistler Mountain | Whistler, BC (Canada)

Whistler is situated north of Vancouver, British Columbia, on the Fitzsimmons range of Coast Mountain range in BC, Canada. It was originally named London Mountain because of the frequent fog in some lower areas.

Whistler, among the largest ski resorts in North America, is among Canada’s most famous places to visit in winter.

Here, you can enjoy amazing and thrilling sports like skiing, snowshoeing, and tobogganing in snowland. Whistler, since the 90s, is consistently credited as one of the top resorts and famous places in North America by major ski magazines, as it has a ski-able area of 4,757 acres.

It is also known for sighting many bears and all other amazing facts about Snowland. Thus, due to its beauty and sporty impacts, it is one of Canada’s most famous places to visit.

3. Quebec City

Quebec City | Real 8K

Quebec is very much known for its French influence all around the world. It is located on the Saint Lawrence River, Canada’s French-speaking Quebec province. It is also one of the most beautiful, famous places, romantic and appealing cities to visit with your partner if magic, romance, and elegance are what tickles you.

This ancient world city was founded in 1608 and is fortified by city walls designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985, making it the most famous place in history in Canada.

Quebec is also where the most amazing, mouth-watering, and one of the most famous Canadian dishes, Poutine, was invented. Which is a dish made of french fries, amazing gravy, and some cheese curds.

Quebec’s very own Winter Carnival Festival is known as “Carnaval,” the largest winter festival in the world. Quebec also has the credits of having famous places like the very first brewery in Canada, known as “La Brasseries du Roi,” which means “the kings brewery,” which was started by Jean-Talon in 1668.

There are also many waterfalls in the city and their version of Shepard’s Pie, also known as “Pate chinois” and much more.

4. St. John’s

St. John’s city is the capital of the province of Newfoundland and Labrador and also the capital of commercial, financial, educational, and cultural centers for these provinces and one of the most famous places.

There could be innumerable things on your to-do list during your visit to St. John’s. It is a fabulous city with a long, amazing history and one of the best places to visit in Summer. St. John’s has the most colorful and bright waterfronts, making it look captivating and out of the pattern.

The houses at St. John’s were all painted with different colors so the ships could see them through the fog. It is also known for the sporting event of The Royal St. John’s Regatta, which takes place on the first Wednesday of August every year.

Along with this, it is also known as a transatlantic flight. The Grand Concourse is a walkway network boasting 125 kilometers linking several lakes, ponds, rivers, parks, and green spaces around the city to the nearby communities of Mount Pearl and Paradise.

Moreover, it is also famous for its boat rides, hiking Signal Hill and much more.

5. Tofino

TOFINO - Epic adventures in Tofino, Vancouver Island, Canada

Tofino is located on Vancouver Island, a small community famous for its beauty and culture. Tofino’s beaches border a historical temperate rainforest.

The eye-catching scene of Tofino is its 16 kilometres of long, flat, and amazingly vast beach with its unending tides, making it one of the most famous places in Canada for surfing.

Other than these various other events like Storm Watch in Winter, the most spectacular view at the late fall of Winter when huge waves and warmer ocean temperatures reach up to the height of 6 meters, making everyone well known for the power of the great ocean of Tofino between November and February ending.

Tofino is also famous for its Whale watching, which is the most favorite wildlife viewing event of many people who loves wildlife.

In the city’s water bodies, you can notice regular sightings of the grey whale, occasional visits of the great orcas, and in the Summer, the humpback whales pay their visit to Tofino. The Tofino is also famous for its variety of desserts.

The wondrous Chocolate Tofino at 1180A Pacific Highway is a must-try for many food lovers. At Tofino, you can also experience kayaking around the Clayoquot sound, bear watching tour, a walk through the botanical gardens, and sightseeing at the great Radar Hills.

The Icy Canada team talked to Michael Jan, a Travel Consultant at  BUKAHOLIDAY, about the compelling aspects of Canada’s landmarks that captivate travelers. Here is what he said:

Michael Jan - Featured
Michael Jan

“The unique blend of landscapes, including lush forests, pristine lakes, and rugged coastlines, showcases the country’s natural splendor, drawing in visitors from around the globe. 

These destinations contribute significantly to Canada’s identity by embodying its rich natural heritage and serving as symbols of national pride.

They represent the spirit of exploration and appreciation for the environment, reflecting Canada’s commitment to preserving its natural treasures for future generations.”

6. Churchill

Canada: Welcome to Churchill, the polar bear territory!

Churchill, named after John Churchill probably a town located on the bay of Hudson and north of Manitoba, Canada. The city is also known as one of the famous places as the “polar bear capital of the world” due to the large number of polar bears that shift to the shore from the inland during autumn, which no doubt also helps Canada’s tourism industry.

Churchill is known for the oldest mason symbol, which can be seen at Fort Prince of Wales near Churchill river. The town has a very well-known Rocket Testing Site built in 1945 by the Canadian army, which is also a center for researching and studying aurora on long-distance communications.

Along with the polar bears, it is the Beluga Capital of the World because more than 3000 belugas swim into the Churchill River in summer. In Churchill, along with belugas and bears, birds contribute everything to make it a more beautiful place.

During spring and fall, over 250+ species of bird nests, and many of them pass through the area of Churchill on account of the annual migration.

The most fascinating and weird fact about Churchill is that there are no roads leading to this beautiful place and the most famous places! Yes, willing people must find their way here by a 1700 km train ride of 2 days or a 3-hour flight.

7. Old Montreal

Spectacular Views Old Montreal / Vieux Montréal

Old Montreal, discovered by the French settlers in 1642 as Fort Ville-Marie, is a historic neighborhood in the municipality of Montreal in the province of Quebec, Canada.

This district is home to the cultural and art showcase of the 17th century and also a fantastic district with markets, historical landmarks, museums, and much more, which makes it one of the most famous places in Canada.

Starting with the Place d’Armes, the ancient public square at the centre of Old Montreal is a well-known place to enjoy talented performers and admirable architecture lining the square.

The oldest street of Old Montreal, Saint Paul street, is also unique and parallel to the Old Port Waterfront, brought to Old Montreal in 1672.

With the public square and the ancient street, there are many other pieces of architecture in Old Montreal, namely Pointe- a-Callier, a historical and archaeological award-winning museum discovered around the 1990s.

Then there is a building known as Chateau Ramezay’s first historical monument in Quebec, a National Historic Site of Canada, and a well-loved museum.

8. Banff National Park

2012 - Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada

Banff National Park, located to the west of Calgary in Alberta, Canada, is 2,564 square miles of amazing and appealing beauty of alpine lakes, its snow-covered peaks, eye-soothing waterfalls, and a great package of adventure for all adventure lovers and one of the most famous places.

Banff National Park was originally a reserve around the Sulphur mountain hot springs which is now a fantastic place with one thousand miles of hiking trails.

This huge place consists of an artificial lake named Minnewanka, the biggest lake made in the 1900s to bring water close to the town where you can dive and carry out boat tours.

Speaking of the lake, Lake Louis is the highest permanent settlement in Canada and the most photographed lake in the world, and home to Fairmont Chateau.

Johnston Canyon is the busiest hike in the Banff National Park. Banff National Park is the Second largest Canadian National Park and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984.

It is also a shelter to seven other National Historic Sites, namely Skoki Lodge, Cave and Busen, Cosmic Ray Station, Abbot Pass Hut, Howse Pass, Fairmont Banff Spring Hotel, Banff Park Museum, and Sanson Park, which makes it one of the most famous places in Canada.

9. Butchart Gardens

4K HDR Video – Beautiful Flower Garden in Canada, The Butchart Gardens

Located on Vancouver Island, close to Victoria, Butchart gardens are home to various flowers, shrubs, and trees. Butchart Gardens are the National Historic site of Canada declared so in 2004, receiving nearly a million visitors every year.

These beautiful gardens are still maintained and owned by their founding families, currently by Robin-Lee Clarke, the great-granddaughter of the founding couple.

Butchart Gardens were an inspiration for Epcot in Walt Disney Resort in Florida. This is a perfect and beautiful place for wedding ceremonies.

The gardens have packages among which the couples can choose the type of ceremony they admire the most by then. Butchart Gardens are a group of Six gardens, namely the Rose Garden, Sunken Garden, Japanese Garden, Italian Garden, and Mediterranean Garden, which serve you a full day exploring these grounds.

The nights are also exciting at this group of gardens as the garden’s lawns are home to concerts for the local talent during the Summer. Also, jazz bands, modern folk music, and ballet performances can be enjoyed at this place.

10. Okanagan Valley

OKANAGAN AWESOME AERIAL 2

Okanagan Valley is situated in the Canadian province of British Columbia, stated by the Okanagan Lake and Okanagan river basin. Like the other famous places in Canada known for their great locations and breathtaking sites, Okanagan is also famous and visited by tourists for its extraordinary beauty, nature, and landscapes.

One such place is the O’Keefe Ranch, which tells everyone about ranching in British Columbia, with small to large ancient buildings that you can explore.

The O’Keefe family house and St. Anne’s church are well-known wedding locations.  Okanagan is also one of the famous places for the Starlight Drive-in theatre, and it is nostalgic enough to take you down memory lane of the prior generations. People are also fond of other places, including the Davidson Orchards Country Village, a must-go place with family.

The Shuswap river tubing, the Caravan Theatre, Mabel Lake, Echo Lake, hiking the Myra Canyon Mountain Park, and the most amazing journey of tasting the Okanagan Valley wine.

11. Gros Morne National Park

GROS MORNE NATIONAL PARK - NEWFOUNDLAND | DRONE FOOTAGE

Gros Morne National Park, located at Rocky harbour in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, is the second-largest National Park in Atlantic Canada, also known as a world heritage site declared by UNESCO.

It is one of the famous places in Canada, famous for many sights and scenarios.

  • Tablelands for hiking in the Southern area
  • Visiting Western Brook Pond to adore the ancient cliffs
  • The mountains of Morne are known for their height and beauty
  • And the beautiful dusk at the lighthouse named Lobster Cove Head

On the other side resides Kayaking the Trout river to Bonne bay, witnessing the heart-melting views of the Lookout Hills trails starting from Discovery centre and going to Bonne bay, the Tablelands. Then there are the lookout hills, be part of the Geocaching hiking challenge, and ice skating valley of Burridge’s Gulch.

12. CN Tower, Toronto

CN Tower Toronto, Canada - a visit to the top

Located in Downtown Toronto, Ontario, Canada, which is widely known as one of the seven wonders of the modern world, one of the most famous places is, in reality, the tallest structure in the western hemisphere.

There is much to know about this skyscraper. Let us know that the observation level is made of glass which can stand the weight of 35 moose; yes, it is true and possible.

There exists a time capsule since the time it was built which is placed on the wall of the building’s LookOut level, consisting of Canadian coins, a letter from children and Pierre Trudeau( Prime minister of Canada at that time), and three local newspapers. This capsule is planned to be opened in 2076.

When the atmosphere is not in a mood to create havoc, and there is a clear, shiny day out is the time when you can observe Niagara Falls and the New York state from the CN Tower.

You might be shocked to know that this biggest lightning rod is struck by lightning-like 75 o 80 times in a year and can be even more, but still, it is safe to visit in the storm as well as any atmosphere because long copper wires draw the lightning electricity.

Along with all the glory and charm of the tower, it also keeps changing its colour regularly and sometimes as per the occasion and festival.

We interviewed Jess Rodley, Bookings Director at Andorra Escapes, on the true beauty of Canada’s natural environments that attract travelers. Here is what she had to say:

Jess Rodley - Featured
Jess Rodley

“Having lived in Whistler, British Columbia, I can attest to the true beauty of Canada’s natural environments—there’s no denying that it is some of the most pristine, breathtaking scenery in the world.

The diversity of those environments is a compelling drawcard, allowing travelers to explore everything from great mountains and vivid green forests to coastal beaches and arctic tundras, all within the same trip.

Yet, one thing that I believe truly draws in travelers, particularly those from densely populated cities or urban areas, is the sheer magnitude of some of Canada’s most iconic natural wonders.

While it is the natural beauty that attracts visitors in the first place, it’s the awe-inspiring vastness that entices them to stay.

Speaking from experience, I take on a different perspective and sense of self when completely engulfed by massive mountain ranges and the environment. When no human infrastructure is within sight, the sense of freedom and oneness with the environment is invigorating.

As for how these destinations contribute to Canada’s identity as a country, I think the great outdoors is fundamental to the Canadian identity.

The pride and care they have for their natural environment seems to be a core value, with a love of the wilderness deeply ingrained in Canadian culture.

The preservation of indigenous heritage and conservation efforts further indicate the importance of these natural wonders, and the greater environment, within Canada.”

13. Lake Louise

10 Tips for Lake Louise | Survival Guide

Almost everyone on this planet must have seen the beauty and charm of this amazing place on their phones, laptops, and personal computers in the form of pictures. This lake is 100 times better and more beautiful than it appears in photographs.

This lake area provides residence to various spectacular wildlife like moose, bears, cougars, and elks, a common sighting in this area.

The town of this all-year freezing lake is not at all at the lake, but it is located at a distance of 5 kilometres from the lake. It is Canada’s highest community, formed of about 1731 meters, and has the highest ratio of grizzle bears to humans, which is completely shocking and also one of the most famous places.

This lake owns Canada’s most liked ski resort and other famous places like many of the luxurious hotels. This and everything else is why Lake Louise is one of the most famous places in Canada.

14. Bay of Fundy

The Bay of Fundy is situated between Nova Scotia and New Brunswick.  With its enormous powers, this bay can reverse the flow of many rivers that empty them in the bay. This phenomenon is called a tidal bore. The Bay of Fundy is also famous for its highest tides, known as spring tides.

The Bay of Fundy has Fundy’s Old Sow Whirlpool, the largest in the western hemisphere and the second largest in the world.

The upper Bay of Fundy provides residence to the mud shrimp due to the mudflats exposed by low tides and trough these mudflats. You can also witness the migrating sandpipers between July and October every year.

Fifteen kilometres along the cliff at Joggins declared a world heritage site by UNESCO in 2008, the powerful tides of Fundy had discovered the richest and most ancient carboniferous fossils, including ancient forests and Earth’s first reptiles.

15. The Yukon

Exploring the Yukon Territory, Canada & Alaska

The Yukon is located north of British Columbia and is one of the three northern Canadian territories, three times the size of England. Yukon was named so because of the Locheux word ‘Yuk-un-ah,’ which means ‘great river.’

Yukon has a shoreline of 430 kilometres, and its official flower is fireweed.  Weather is always beautiful in the Yukon, which is dry, and during Summer, low humidity and less rough winters.

The great Arctic circle crosses through the Yukon and is also famous for Gold Rush.

16. Yoho National Park

Yoho National Park 2017 (British Columbia, Canada)

Yoho National Park is situated in the southeastern region of British Columbia.  What and where to visit Yoho National Park depends on the season you get there.

Places worth visiting here include auspicious fields, canoeing the Emerald lake because of the emerald colour of the lake and witnessing the northern lights, O’Hara lake, kicking horse river, the great Wapta falls, and much more.

Famous places like  Takakkaw falls are a must-visit of the Yoho national park. The Burgess Shale, one of the most important fossils, belongs to the Yoho National Park.

Along with this, the fascinating thing about Yoho National Park is its natural beauty and scenery and one of Canada’s most famous places.

17. Hornby Island

HORNBY & DENMAN | VANCOUVER ISLAND 4K DRONE

Hornby Island is located near the Comox Valley in British Columbia. This beautiful piece is beyond words in the context of its beauty and charm and is one of the most famous places in Canada.

Many famous places make this island beautiful, like the Joe king park, which is a membership club hosting varied events and activities takes place, Sound bathing, Mountain biking on some of the best mountain trails, Wedding and events, Music concerts, an astronomical observatory to observe some of the beautiful island stars.

Diving and Snorkeling are also very much practised on this island to visit massive sea lions.  The Natural History Centre at Hornby island gives a wide description of the animals, plants, and geology and are famous places.

You can also have some Hornby island ocean adventure, a boat charter company that provides you with luxurious and professional boats along with fishing, sightseeing, and cruises to the surrounding area of the island.

Moreover, kayaking is also praised in this region and the beacon of peace Sun Door Yoga.

Billy Litmer, Founder of Honest Eco Tours, discussed the main reasons to travel to Canada. Here is what he said:

Billy Litmer - Featured
Billy Litmer

“One of the main reasons to travel to Canada is its unmatched natural beauty. The majestic Rocky Mountains and stunning lakes in Alberta, along with the scenic vistas of Cape Breton, make Canada’s landscapes truly breathtaking.

The country is also filled with numerous national parks, each providing a distinct and awe-inspiring experience.

Whether you’re trekking through the untouched wilderness of Banff National Park, discovering the rugged charm of Gros Morne National Park, or paddling on the vibrant turquoise waters of Lake Louise, you are enveloped by the splendor of nature.

Beyond its mountains and national parks, Canada boasts beautiful coastlines.

From the wild shores of Newfoundland to the idyllic beaches of Prince Edward Island, there’s a wealth of scenes to enjoy along both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.

And of course, there’s Niagara Falls—one of our favorite spots—a natural spectacle that draws millions of visitors every year. Whether you’re viewing the falls from an observation deck or feeling the spray on a boat tour, the force and beauty of Niagara Falls are unforgettable.

I believe that if you’re a person who loves adventure, Canada is an ideal place to visit. With its vast wilderness, craggy mountains, and pristine lakes, the country offers limitless possibilities for outdoor activities.

Whether it’s hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, or skiing, Canada has an adventure to offer everyone.”

18. Cape Breton

EXPLORE CAPE BRETON ISLAND

Cape Breton is an island on the Atlantic coast of North America and is a part of the province of Nova Scotia, Canada, which has some of the most beautiful coastal scenery and famous places. It is a blend of Acadian French and Celtic cultures contributing to the island’s heritage.

Starting with the Cabot trails, a 300-kilometre scenic drive offers year-round sports, skiing, kayaking, and horse riding. The Fortress of Louisbourg, Canada’s historical reconstruction recreated from ruins and living history room surrounded by a wall of towers and bastions encompassing nearly 40 buildings.

The highland national park is famous for hiking, giving you a glimpse of amazing wildlife like moose, beaver, deer, wild cats, eagles, and many more.

Cape Breton also has other amazing places like Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site, Cape Breton’s Miners’ Museum, Highland Village, Les Trois Pignons, a fishing village well known for many other arts, and the lighthouse of Isle Madame, which contributes to one of the famous places in Canada.

19. Perce Rock

The Percé Rock Gaspé Coast Quebec Canada 2019

Perce Rock is situated in Quebec, Canada, and is one of the most famous places in Canada. It is a monolith rising from the sea which has captured people’s attention for a long time. It appears as a ship under sail and is Quebec’s historical and geological icon.

This piece is a massive rocky cliff made of limestone and shale. Sir William Edmond Logan mapped it for the first time in 1844. The rock has about 150 fossilized species of flora and fauna.

On its southern end, a natural arch forms on the surface, creating a passage and one of the world’s largest natural arches. It is a major tourist attraction site and one of the famous places as a migratory bird sanctuary. Researchers have stated that it was a part of the mainland.

20. Mingan Monoliths

Archipel de Mingan | Mingan Archipelago

Mingan Monoliths were created 450 million years ago by natural phenomena. Mingan Island is a group of 40 consecutive islands explored by nature lovers.

It is one of the most famous places in Canada. The centre of attraction is the beautiful and rocky limestone monoliths rising from the sea. Some of them are dry, and some are covered with vegetation.

It attracts many tourists from July to September and is also one of the most famous places in Canada.

Suggested Read: Guide To Fundy National Park: Seven Best Things To Do

Conclusion

So, this was all about the 20 famous places to visit in Canada. When in Canada, do not miss out on any of them. Explore and enjoy.

It may not contain the golden gate bridge, eiffel tower or the things like world’s highest observation deck, but Canada house its own incredible locations; world famous landmarks, national parks like jasper national park, Waterton lakes national park, central park, and international peace park, and other notable and top tourist attractions locations like  polar bear capital.

Guest Author: Saket Kumar

Last Updated on by Sathi Chakraborty

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