Best Things to Do in Canada

In popular culture, the image of Canada has been somewhat misconstrued. Like a lot of countries it tends to be boiled down to a few features and stereotypes, and despite what some may think, the country doesn’t just consist of Tim Hortons, Mounties, and maple trees. Rather the Great White North offers an incredible variety of unique and enjoyable experiences for travelers to get into (not to mention the country is massive).

It’s a place you should absolutely have on your travel list, and if you do end up making the trip to explore Canada, here are eight of the awesome things you can there.

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1. Spend The Day At Niagara Falls

There is a reason that tourists flock from all over to see Niagara Falls. Not only are the waterfalls absolutely awe-inspiring, there are a ton of fun (and free) things to do in the area. Visitors can bike the Niagara River Recreation Trail, hike Niagara Glen, or stroll the beautiful Botanical Gardens. Depending on the weather, guests will also be treated to an amazing fireworks show at night. And this is all before we even really get to the various ways to explore the actual waterfalls, either by boat or by trail. Throw in luxury accommodations in the area (complete with restaurants and spas), and it’s a vacation unto itself.

2. Explore Old Quebec

If you’re in the area, be sure to spend a day in Old Quebec. You can simply wander the cobblestone streets and find amazing restaurants, quaint boutiques, and historic landmarks, such as the Augustines Monastery and the Morrin Centre. There are actually a few “Old Towns” in Canada worth your tome (Montréal’s is incredible), but this is as good or better than any to prioritize.

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3. Visit Canmore Caves

If you’re up for an adventure, be sure to check out Canmore Caves, near Calgary. Guests can book 40-minute exploration tours at this spectacular site year ’round. That said, Canada’s largest caves also have a few seasonal events. For example, in the spirit of Halloween, visitors can watch the horror movie The Descent in the vast caverns. Seasonal events aside, each tour is $135 per person.

4. Enjoy A Toronto Maple Leafs Game

Hockey and Canada go hand in hand. Thus, you can get a real taste of Canadian culture (and pure fun) with a stop by a Toronto Maple Leafs game at the Scotiabank Arena in Toronto. The home team is typically strong these days, as evidenced by Canada’s online sports betting sites, which widely have the Maple Leafs situated among the NHL’s top contenders for 2019-20. But even if you’re not there for the hockey, it’s a worthwhile experience. You’ll be among enthusiastic locals, and you can always enjoy a beer and some in-house poutine!

5. Stop By The Gopher Hole Museum

This museum is unique to say the least. The Gopher Hole Museum, located in Torrington, Alberta, is dedicated to taxidermied gophers. It’s weird, certainly, but those who enjoy all things kitschy will have a field day. The gophers are dressed in miniature clothes and posed to convey certain scenarios, giving the place a little bit of a fairy tale vibe – which, incidentally, brings us to our next attraction….

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6. Be Mesmerized By The Enchanted Forest

The Enchanted Forest in British Columbia is perfect if you’re traveling with the whole family – though to be clear, adults too will have a fantastic time at the magical attraction. The park boasts numerous statues based on characters from fairy tales, as well as the world’s tallest treehouse. General admission is $12 for adults and $9 for children.

7. Go Whale Watching

Whale watching can make you feel at one with nature like few other things. The most popular spots in Canada for this activity are British Columbia, Nova Scotia, and Newfoundland. Those who go on a Candian whale-watching tour will likely catch sight of belugas, humpbacks, and/or Orcas, and undoubtedly gain a greater appreciation for the powerful and mysterious nature of the oceans.

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8. Ski Whistler

It’s almost a shame to visit Canada and not do any sort of snow sport activity. In particular, skiers (and snowboarders) of all ability levels will have a wonderful time in Whistler, arguably the country’s most famous snow sport destination. Experts can glide down the runs, while beginners can take a lesson or two before heading out on the easier trails. And after spending a day on the slopes, you can relax by the fireplace at the Whistler Blackcomb Resort, perhaps with a hot beverage in hand.

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