New Brunswick Bucket List

New Brunswick is a beautiful Maritime Province, made up of natural wonders, gorgeous landscapes, and friendly fishing communities. Nature lovers will rejoice at the numerous opportunities to see various species of wildlife, including whales! From historic museums to some of the richest national parks in Canada, this province is one travelers will not want to miss. Spend some time breathing in the sea air and getting a little dirt on your boots with these 10 must-see spots in New Brunswick!

1. Stroll through Canada’s oldest continuing farmer’s market

The Saint John City Market is touted as “an original experience every time.” Some of the businesses within the market have been operating continuously for over 100 years. Every vendor has something different, and visitors will spend hours milling through this beautiful shopping spot. Many renovations have updated this historic market in recent years, but many traditions remain. One such tradition is the ringing of the Market Bell, which signals the opening and closing of the day’s business.

2. Visit one of Reader Digest’s 7 Best Small Islands in the World

Grand Manan Island packs a number of authentic Canadian experiences into its mighty shores. From rugged cliffs to sprawling shoreline, this island is a natural beauty. Visitors can partake in many exhilarating activities, including whale-watching, sea kayaking, superb hiking trails, cycling, and even birdwatching, including puffins! Local cuisine is something every visitor must sample, including harvested seaweed delicacies. The active fishing communities here are full of friendly people and serene backdrops, so make sure to fit this lovely little island into your itinerary!

3. Be adventurous at Cape Enrage

Looking for more ways to explore the beautiful Bay of Fundy? Visit Cape Enrage! Cape Enrage, with its towering cliffs, offers one of the best views of the bay. Lighthouse fans will love the cape’s light tower, which has been on the spot for over 140 years. Families and adventure travelers alike will love all the great activities at Cape Enrage, like a zip line, rappel wall, and natural rock climbing. Dining while looking over the Bay of Fundy is another once in a lifetime experience for any Canadian traveler. If you’re already visiting the Hopewell Rocks, be sure to stop by Cape Enrage.

4. Walk along the ocean floor at the Hopewell Rocks

One of the top attractions of New Brunswick is the Hopewell Rocks. This season attraction, open from mid-May to mid-October, can be found along the coast of the Bay of Fundy. The site consists of 40-70 foot tall rock formations caused by tidal erosion. The world’s highest tides exist here, and twice a day, the rocks are completed covered in water! Visitors have the rare opportunity to walk on the ocean’s floor at low tide, or visit the park’s two beaches, in addition to numerous walking trails.

5. Witness the Reversing Rapids

The Bay of Fundy has a big impact on New Brunswick, perhaps most literally at the Reversing Rapids. Where the Bay of Fundy collides with the Saint John River, a unique phenomenon occurs. At low tide, the river pours into the bay, and rapids and whirlpools form. As the tide rises, the river’s current is temporarily slowed. Then, as the Bay’s tides continue to climb, the river’s flow is reversed. This unique experience happens every day! See it for yourself for an experience like no other.

6. Defy gravity at Magnetic Hill

Have you ever visited a gravity hill? Magnetic hill, in Moncton, is an example of this optical illusion. The illusion is caused by rising and descending terrain that makes a slight downhill slope appear to be an uphill slope. Cars left in neutral will begin to roll backwards, but appear to be rolling uphill. Want to give it a try? For a fee, drivers can experience Magnetic Hill!

7. Cross the world’s longest covered bridge

For fans of scenic covered bridges, the Hartland Bridge is a must-see. It is the world’s longest covered bridge, stretching across the Saint John River from Hartland to Somerville. It is constructed of seven Howe Truss bridges joined together on six piers. This bridge is legendary for more than just its size, though. In the days of horse-drawn wagons, couples would stop halfway through the bridge and kiss. Today, locals say its good luck to hold one’s breath the entire way while driving.

8. Take a step back in time at the Historic Garrison District

By the Saint John River lies the Historic Garrison District, in Fredericton. This site is as entertaining as it is educational, with a wonderful assortment of historical attractions and reenactments, artists, and musicians. It serves as a hub of culture, craft, and heritage alike. Many festivals are held in this great location, including the Harvest Jazz & Blues Festival in the fall and the Fredericton Craft Beer Festival in the spring.

9. Immerse yourself in the culture of the Acadiens

What do you know of the Acadiens, the first French settlers in North America? Village Historique Acadien is a living history museum that lovingly portrays the lives of Acadiens between 1770 and 1949. With over 40 historical buildings to explore, occupied by costumed interpreters, this unique experience will transport you back in time through their stories and the warmth of their culture. To visit the entire site, be sure to set aside a minimum of four hours. Why not make a day of it? Book a stay at a nearby Best Western hotel and give yourself plenty of time to immerse yourself into history!

10. See 10 million trees from the top of Mount Carleton

If the great outdoors is calling your name, you have to visit Mount Carleton Provincial Park. For the hikers in your group, Mount Carleton offers 11 challenging trails that cut through the woods and mountain peaks. From the top of Mount Carleton, hikers can see 10 million trees! Wildlife lovers will delight in spotting the numerous types of birds and mammals who call this park home. This area is home to more wild animal species than any other part of New Brunswick! With over 17,000 hectares to explore, there’s never been a better reason to get outdoors!