Best Places to Visit in New Brunswick | Travel Guide (2024) | Things to Do, See & Eat
New Brunswick Travel Guide
Quick overview of New Brunswick with our expert tips and insights. Jump to any section.
Welcome to New Brunswick, Canada! Located on the eastern coast of the country, this charming province offers a diverse range of experiences for travelers. From its stunning natural landscapes to its rich cultural heritage, New Brunswick has something for everyone. Explore the iconic Bay of Fundy, home to the highest tides in the world, where you can witness the dramatic rise and fall of the water levels. Immerse yourself in the vibrant city of Fredericton, the provincial capital, known for its historic architecture and lively arts scene. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the picturesque fishing villages along the Acadian Coast, where you can indulge in fresh seafood and learn about the region's Acadian heritage. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures, cultural immersion, or simply a relaxing getaway, New Brunswick is the perfect destination to satisfy your wanderlust.
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Best Places To Visit in New Brunswick
1. Fredericton: Located in the heart of New Brunswick, Fredericton is the capital city and a must-visit destination. With its charming downtown area, historic sites, and vibrant arts scene, this city offers a perfect blend of culture and natural beauty. Explore the historic Garrison District, home to the Fredericton Region Museum and the Beaverbrook Art Gallery, which houses an impressive collection of Canadian and international artwork. Don't miss a stroll along the picturesque Saint John River, where you can enjoy scenic views and outdoor activities like kayaking or canoeing.
2. Saint John: As the largest city in New Brunswick, Saint John is a bustling port city with a rich maritime history. Explore the historic Uptown area, known for its well-preserved Victorian architecture and vibrant arts scene. Visit the New Brunswick Museum, which showcases the province's natural and cultural heritage, or take a stroll along the Reversing Falls, a natural phenomenon where the tides of the Bay of Fundy collide with the Saint John River. For nature enthusiasts, a visit to the Fundy National Park is a must, offering breathtaking coastal vistas and hiking trails.
3. Moncton: Known as the "Hub City" of New Brunswick, Moncton is a vibrant and multicultural city with plenty to offer. Explore the Magnetic Hill Zoo, home to a diverse range of animals, or visit the Resurgo Place Museum, which tells the story of Moncton's history and culture. Don't miss a visit to Hopewell Rocks, a unique natural attraction where you can witness the dramatic tidal changes and walk on the ocean floor during low tide. Moncton is also famous for its Acadian cuisine, so be sure to indulge in some delicious seafood and traditional dishes.
4. St. Andrews: Located on the picturesque shores of the Bay of Fundy, St. Andrews is a charming coastal town known for its historic charm and natural beauty. Explore the St. Andrews Blockhouse National Historic Site, a well-preserved fortification from the War of 1812, or take a stroll along the St. Andrews Harbour, where you can spot seals and enjoy stunning views of the coastline. For outdoor enthusiasts, a visit to the Kingsbrae Garden is a must, with its beautifully landscaped gardens and a wide variety of plant species.
5. Miramichi: Nestled along the banks of the Miramichi River, this town is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and fishing enthusiasts. Known as the "Salmon Capital of the World," Miramichi offers excellent opportunities for salmon fishing. Explore the French Fort Cove Nature Park, where you can hike through scenic trails, kayak on the river, or simply relax in the peaceful surroundings. Don't miss a visit to the Beaubears Island Interpretive Centre, which tells the story of the region's shipbuilding history and offers guided tours of the island.
6. Bathurst: Situated on the stunning Chaleur Bay, Bathurst is a coastal city known for its beautiful beaches and outdoor recreational activities. Spend a day at Youghall Beach Park, a popular spot for swimming, picnicking, and beachcombing. Explore the Daly Point Nature Reserve, where you can hike through scenic trails and enjoy panoramic views of the bay. For history buffs, a visit to the Bathurst Heritage Museum is a must, showcasing the city's rich cultural heritage and maritime history.
7. Edmundston: Located in the northwestern part of New Brunswick, Edmundston is a bilingual city with a unique blend of Acadian and Anglophone cultures. Explore the Madawaska Historical Museum, which offers a glimpse into the region's history and heritage, or visit the New Brunswick Botanical Garden, home to a wide variety of plant species and beautifully landscaped gardens. For outdoor enthusiasts, a visit to the Sugarloaf Provincial Park is a must, offering hiking trails, skiing slopes, and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
8. Campobello Island: Accessible by ferry from mainland New Brunswick, Campobello Island is a hidden gem known for its natural beauty and historic sites. Visit the Roosevelt Campobello International Park, a unique park that preserves the summer home of former U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Explore the Herring Cove Provincial Park, where you can enjoy scenic coastal views and spot seals and whales. Don't miss a visit to the East Quoddy Lighthouse, a picturesque lighthouse located on the island's eastern tip.
9. Grand Falls: Situated along the Saint John River, Grand Falls is a small town known for its impressive waterfalls and outdoor recreational activities. Visit the Grand Falls Gorge, where you can witness the powerful waterfalls and enjoy scenic views from the suspension bridge. Explore the Zip Zag adventure park, offering thrilling zipline experiences and aerial obstacle courses. For a taste of local culture, attend the Festival des Rendez-vous d'la Baie, a lively celebration of Acadian music, dance, and cuisine.
10. Caraquet: Located on the Acadian Peninsula, Caraquet is a charming coastal town known for its rich Acadian heritage and vibrant cultural scene. Explore the Village Historique Acadien, an open-air museum that recreates a 19th-century Acadian village, complete with historic buildings and costumed interpreters. Visit the Pays de la Sagouine, a cultural park that celebrates Acadian literature and traditions through live performances and interactive exhibits. Don't miss a visit to the Caraquet Bay, where you can enjoy scenic views, go fishing, or take a boat tour to explore the nearby islands.
Hotels Map Of New Brunswick
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Tours And Activities In New Brunswick
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Food & Drinks To Try In New Brunswick
1. Lobster: New Brunswick is known for its fresh and delicious lobster. Whether you try it in a traditional lobster roll or as part of a seafood boil, you won't be disappointed.
2. Poutine: This Canadian classic is a must-try in New Brunswick. It consists of crispy french fries topped with cheese curds and smothered in gravy. It's the ultimate comfort food.
3. Fiddleheads: These unique ferns are a local delicacy in New Brunswick. They have a distinct flavor and are often sauteed or used in salads. Don't miss the chance to try this seasonal treat.
4. Dulse: Dulse is a type of edible seaweed that is harvested along the coast of New Brunswick. It can be eaten dried or rehydrated and has a salty, smoky flavor. It's a popular snack in the region.
5. Wild Blueberries: New Brunswick is known for its wild blueberries, which are smaller and more flavorful than cultivated varieties. You can enjoy them fresh, in baked goods, or even in ice cream.
6. Acadian Cuisine: Acadian cuisine is a unique blend of French, British, and Indigenous influences. Some popular dishes include rappie pie (a potato-based dish), ploye (a type of pancake), and fricot (a hearty chicken stew).
7. Maple Syrup: Canada is famous for its maple syrup, and New Brunswick is no exception. You can visit a local sugar shack to learn about the maple syrup production process and sample some delicious maple treats.
8. Craft Beer: New Brunswick has a thriving craft beer scene, with numerous breweries offering a wide range of styles and flavors. Whether you're a beer enthusiast or just looking to try something new, be sure to sample some local brews.
9. Apple Cider: New Brunswick is home to many apple orchards, and the region produces some excellent apple cider. You can visit a cidery to learn about the cider-making process and enjoy a refreshing glass of this local specialty.
10. Seafood Chowder: With its coastal location, New Brunswick is a seafood lover's paradise. Don't miss the chance to try a hearty bowl of seafood chowder, packed with fresh fish, clams, and other delicious ingredients.
Best Time To Visit New Brunswick
The best time to visit New Brunswick, Canada is during the summer months of June to August. This is when the weather is warm and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 20 to 25 degrees Celsius. It is also the peak tourist season, so you can expect crowded attractions and higher prices for accommodations. However, this is also the ideal time to explore the beautiful coastline, go hiking in the national parks, and participate in outdoor activities such as whale watching and kayaking. If you prefer milder weather and fewer crowds, the shoulder seasons of spring (April to May) and fall (September to October) are also good times to visit. During these times, you can enjoy pleasant temperatures and beautiful fall foliage without the summer crowds. However, it is important to note that winter (December to February) in New Brunswick can be extremely cold and snowy, so it may not be the best time for outdoor activities unless you enjoy winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding.
Flight Calendar For New Brunswick
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Transportation To New Brunswick
There are several transportation options to get to New Brunswick, Canada:
1. By Air: The province has several airports, including the Greater Moncton International Airport, Fredericton International Airport, and Saint John Airport. These airports offer domestic and international flights, making it convenient to fly directly to New Brunswick.
2. By Car: New Brunswick is easily accessible by road. Major highways such as the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 2) and Highway 1 connect the province to neighboring provinces and the United States. If you are coming from a nearby location, driving can be a convenient option.
3. By Bus: Several bus companies, such as Maritime Bus and Acadian Lines, provide transportation services to New Brunswick. They offer routes connecting major cities within the province and also connect to other provinces in Canada.
4. By Train: VIA Rail operates train services in New Brunswick, with stops in cities like Moncton, Fredericton, and Campbellton. This can be a scenic and comfortable way to travel to the province.
5. By Ferry: If you are coming from Prince Edward Island or Nova Scotia, you can take a ferry to New Brunswick. The Confederation Bridge connects Prince Edward Island to New Brunswick, while ferries operate between Digby, Nova Scotia, and Saint John, New Brunswick.
It is recommended to check the schedules and availability of these transportation options before planning your trip to New Brunswick.