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Best Things to Do in Canada

Iconic Attractions & Hidden Gem Travel Experiences

Canada

Land-wise, it's one of the world's largest countries, but most of Canada's population lives within a fairly short distance north of the U.S. border. Here you'll find world-class cities like Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver, all beautiful and diverse. Whether you want an adventure in the Rockies or a historic jaunt through quaint maritime towns you're sure to find your ideal slice of Canada.

Top Canada Experiences

Taking a helicopter ride to beautiful Vancouver Island.

Joining a small group tour to see the spectacular Niagara Falls up close.

Visiting the beautiful Banff National Park to see wildlife and breathtaking scenery.

During the winter, you can ice skate in the largest naturally frozen skating rink in the world, The Rideau Canal in Ottawa.

Sampling the best seafood in North America, including oysters, salmon, Pacific cod, and hake, at one of Vancouver’s many seafood restaurants.

Visiting the Anne of Green Gables house on Prince Edward Island

Whale watching along Canada's picturesque coastlines

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Things to do in Canada - Expert’s guide

Covid-19 Update

The US-Canada border closures have been extended through November 21st.

At this time, Canada is not open to travelers visiting for tourism. 

Read more about Countries Reopening for Tourism »


1. Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls in Canada

As an internationally recognized series of waterfalls, Niagara Falls is a beautiful collection of cascades that both the United States and Canada contain parts of. Connected by the Rainbow Bridge, both countries allow visitors to access the falls.

However, Canada boasts possession of the largest cascade, Horseshoe Falls. Impressive by itself or as part of the larger natural attraction, Horseshoe Falls can be viewed from the Skylon Tower overlook or felt up-close by visitors who take the elevator to the lower levels of the falls. Guided tours of Niagara Falls often include an exploration of the area behind the water, which can prove just as impressive (and loud) as the traditional view.

2. Canadian Museum for Human Rights

Officially opened in 2014, the Canadian Museum for Human Rights is an important cultural landmark for both Canadian residents and international travelers. Located in Winnipeg, Manitoba, it is hard to miss given its prominent location within the city and unorthodox architectural design.

Specifically built with an emphasis on showcasing as many parts of the world as possible, the Museum for Human Rights is one of a kind and will leave visitors thoughtful and encouraged about the future.

The subject matter and location of exhibits often change, which means that no two trips through the museum will be the same. Guided tours of the museum are available year-round, except for Mondays and federal holidays when it is closed.

3. Banff National Park

Banff National Park, bright blue Moraine Lake

As a sprawling landmark that is well-known for picturesque Rocky Mountains peaks encircling glacial lakes, Banff National Park is protected for good reason. Located in Alberta, Canada, Banff National Park is a highly popular vacation destination and a haven for adventure enthusiasts.

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Banff National Park is well-patrolled by rangers and guided tours are a very useful way to navigate the hot springs, cave systems, and open ranges that are scattered throughout. With nearby Banff Town being a great place to pick up souvenirs and last-minute camping supplies, travelers will find it hard not to stop along some of the 1,500 kilometers of accessible hiking trails.

With different seasons comes the availability of skiing, dog-sledding, scuba diving, and various other methods of exploration. Travelers are cautioned to book guided tours in advance, as the park tends to fill up quickly during peak summer and winter months!

4. CN Tower

CN Tower in Toronto Canada

While the acronym for it is short, the building is not. Standing at an impressive 533.3 meters, the CN (Canadian National) Tower is the perfect way to see all of Toronto. Complete with the 360 Restaurant that sits atop the structure, the CN Tower allows travelers to look out on one of Canada’s largest cities from a bird’s eye view.

The panoramic windows which line the LookOut level provide great photo opportunities and are accessible to travelers of all accommodations. For those looking to test the heights even further, travelers have the option to experience the “Edge Walk” along one side of the tower. As it is open 9 am-10:30 pm every day, the CN Towers is a great way to see the city in its entirety, whether it is day or night. 

5. Old Quebec

Old Quebec in Canada

Although the entire city of Quebec is not to be missed while in Canada, its Lower and Upper Town sections are especially iconic in their own ways. With unique, 17th-century architecture dominating its streets and skyline, every building seems to have a story about its place in Canada’s history.

A 400-year old monastery, the iconic Chateau Frontenac hotel, and Place Royale (one of the first trading-posts in Canada) are just some of the long-standing historical landmarks in the district. For travelers looking for authentic food experiences, guided city food tours are available.

Making a stop at Old Quebec’s 400-year old tavern is a must, as their famous half-cider, half-stout beer combination has been around since it opened! International visitors looking to further explore the food culture that Old Quebec is well-known for may also tour the Marché du Vieux Port for samples and other small souvenirs.  

6. Parliament Hill

Also known as just, “The Hill,” Parliament Hill is the birthplace of Canadian politics. Considered a national historic site, its grounds are well-kept and guarded by the Canadian National Guard. Weather permitting, travelers are able to witness the changing of the guard, which is impressively cohesive.

With a guided tour of the building, travelers are able to watch live debates in the House of Commons and the Senate. In the East Block, travelers can see accurate exhibits of 19th-century political proceedings, which are confined within the historic architecture that makes up that specific side of the building.

For those who wish to see as much of Parliament Hill as possible, it is important to plan guided tours in advance as not all parts of the building are open throughout the year. Similarly, special events for national holidays often take place on The Hill, which travelers may consider planning their visit around.

7. Churchill, Manitoba

Polar bears sighting in Churchill, Manitoba, Canada

In one of the furthest north points of Manitoba lies the small city of Churchill. What it lacks in size, it makes up for in the variety of peculiar outdoor activities that it offers travelers.

While guided tours of the surrounding landscape by foot and dog-sled are available, some travelers opt to take their experience one step further. From the safety and comfort of a protected vehicle, travelers can observe the numerous polar bear families that live in the surrounding area. This tour option allows for amazing photo opportunities that are supported by tour guide descriptions of polar bear lifestyles and conservation efforts.

For travelers looking to find more passive interactions with nature, Churchill, Manitoba is also a popular travel destination for groups of beluga whales during their migration. At night, the city glows - not from electricity - but rather the stunning Northern Lights display that occurs overhead. 

8. Bay of Fundy

Bay of Fundy in Canada

The border between the United States and Canada is an expansive 8,891 kilometers. Near the easternmost point of it is one of the Seven Wonders of North America, Bay of Fundy. It is known particularly for hosting the highest tides on Earth, most of which reach 16 meters high.

This natural phenomenon has led to the creation of “flowerpot” rock formations, which stand on dry land or are surrounded by rushing water depending on the time of day. Over the years, these rocks have not only revealed a rich color gradient, but also many dinosaur fossils.

Not only is the Bay of Fundy a popular way for travelers to spend a day, but it is also a migration destination for sandpipers in July. Throughout the year, travelers can take guided whale-watching tours, as families of them tend to frequent the Bay during their migration seasons. 

9. Gros Morne National Park

Beautiful overlook in Gros Morne National Park in Canada

As another UNESCO World Heritage Site that Canada hosts, Gros Morne National Park is a hiker’s delight. With countless hiking trails that lead along a fjord, to the peak of Gros Morne mountain (16-kilometers to the top), through a small fishing village, and various other locations, the park offers many ways to challenge oneself or relax.

With rare access to an exposed portion of the Earth’s mantle and a picturesque lighthouse at Lobster Cove, travelers in Gros Morne National Park will find their time well-spent. While the main aspects of the park can be explored in a day, travelers are encouraged to take a guided tour of the landscape.

Boat tours are also available, although those require earlier planning to ensure space during peak travel seasons. Similarly, it is important to note that Gros Morne’s summit is only open from July through November.

10. Drumheller Badlands

Rock formations of Drumheller Badlands in Canada

Don’t let the name scare you away from planning a trip through Canada’s Drumheller Badlands. While walking between sites and museums in the Drumheller Badlands is nearly impossible given its sheer size, guided tours of the park often provide comfortable transportation. The Dinosaur Trail, aptly named for the numerous fossils that have been uncovered in the area, runs directly through the park and allows for chances to stop at the locations that make it so popular.

Horsethief Canyon is an amazing location for a hike and a picnic, especially during the summer months. Hoodoos Trail may appeal to more adventurous travelers, as it is steeper and the various “fairy chimney” rocks make for unique hiking trails. Travelers are cautioned to enter this trail with a guide, as the pathways can become confusing.

The Rosedale Suspension Bridge is an easy way to take in the views of the park from above, as it spans 117 meters across the Red Deer River. No matter how you choose to experience the Drumheller Badlands, they are not to be missed while in Canada!

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Canada Tours Reviews & Ratings

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Heinrich Max Pfenninger
·
2023-12-06
Written on
Meine Buchung konnte zielführend platziert werdenn!
Meine Buchung konnte zielführend platziert werden
LuAnne
·
2023-12-02
Written on
Confidence with ACIS
I have been traveling with ACIS for almost 20 years, and I have yet to be disappointed! From the planning stages to the actual travel abroad, the ACIS team is attentive, knowledgeable and helpful. Traveling with them, I know that the entire experience, from excursions to food to hotels, will be top-notch. I love that there are always little surprises along the way, too….some little cultural experience or bonus stop that adds to an already amazing itinerary. I have traveled once with a different company, and that experience proved that you get what you pay for! With ACIS, I can rest assured that my group will walk away from the trip feeling happy with their investment.
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Wilfried Sommen
·
2023-11-22
Written on
Wij zijn zeer tevreden
Wij zijn zeer tevreden over de efficiente en snelle regelingen met LE BOAT.
Sean
·
2023-11-16
Written on
ACIS has been my go to.
ACIS has been my go to for leading educational tours through Europe. I went in 1989 as a student and led my last trip in 2022. They have always had the highest standards and will jump to fix anything unpleasant that comes up unexpectedly. Their guides are experienced and fun, the hotels are good and the food is great.

But the best part is knowing just how helpful everyone in support roles can be. Planning is stressful and ACIS tries hard to alleviate as much ad possible.
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Vanessa Tandy
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2023-11-14
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Self-drive cruise with Le Boat
I was very impressed with the efficient and helpful service. I had asked for numerous quotes and all were done without hesitation and the agent was very friendly and knowledgeable. Thank you.
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Anthony
·
2023-11-14
Written on
All Good except for having to write 10…
All Good except for having to write 10 characters

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