Canada is known for its natural beauty and wilderness, two things that make it one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. The country’s vast wilderness offers hikers, campers, and outdoor enthusiasts a chance to see some of the most beautiful places on earth. From urban cities with architecture that can only be found in North America to small rural hamlets, you will find something that interests you no matter where you look. That being said, Canada has more than just nature to offer visitors. From our museums and historic landmarks to top-rated attractions that are ideal for families and couples looking for a romantic getaway, this article will take you through everything you need to know about Canada’s top tourist attractions.
1. Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls are arguably the most well-known natural sight in all of Canada and get millions of tourists each year. These huge waterfalls have a drop of around 57 meters and are situated a little over an hour’s drive from Toronto, along the border with the United States. From a number of strategic vantage points, it is possible to get an astonishingly close view of the waterfall.
Since well over a century ago, Niagara Falls and the Niagara Gorge have been popular destinations for tourists as well as daredevils. Between the middle of the 19th century and the middle of the 20th century, there were a great number of people who tried to go over the falls in a variety of homemade boats and barrels. This, in addition to tightrope walkers and other shows, was a contributing factor in the surrounding town of Niagara Falls creating an ambiance reminiscent of a carnival, which can be found even to this day.
Walks down Niagara’s spectacular Clifton Hill, which leads to the gorge and falls, are great activities for families to participate in. Other popular things to do here include taking a boat to the bottom of the falls, ascending the Skylon Tower for a breathtaking aerial perspective, and going on the Journey Behind the Falls adventure to get a view of the falls from the foot of the waterfalls.
2. Banff National Park & the Rocky Mountains
Some of the most breathtaking landscape in all of Canada can be seen in Banff National Park, which is located in the province of Alberta and is at the very center of the mighty Rocky Mountains. This breathtaking park gives easy access to a variety of natural wonders, including glaciers, turquoise lakes, and snow-capped hills. Drive through beautiful scenery or embark on one of the many challenging hikes that Banff has to offer.
Lake Louise is the crowning glory of the park; its emerald-colored waters beautifully reflect the green of the surrounding mountains and glaciers, and visitors may easily stroll around the lake’s shoreline. Another stunning alpine lake, Moraine Lake, can be found a short distance away and is surrounded by scenery that is just marginally more striking.
An additional one of Banff’s most popular tourist destinations, the Icefields Parkway is a breathtaking journey that goes all the way from Lake Louise to Jasper. The charming town of Banff sits at the southernmost tip of the park and offers visitors a wide variety of alternatives for places to stay, places to shop and eat, and activities to partake in after dark.
In addition to being a significant center for winter sports, Banff is also the location of two of the most popular ski resorts in all of Canada: Lake Louise Ski Resort and Sunshine Village.
3. Toronto’s CN Tower
One of the most recognizable symbols of Canada, the CN Tower can be found in the heart of Canada’s most populous metropolis, right on the beaches of Lake Ontario. The tower’s height of 553 meters makes it impossible to miss it when looking at the skyline.
At the very top, there is a restaurant that rotates 360 degrees, where you can indulge in five-star cuisine while taking in panoramic views of the surrounding area, including the lake and the city. Both the LookOut and the Glass Floor provide breathtaking views that extend out over the entirety of the location. Stepping outside of the enclosed area onto the metal walkway that is part of the CN Tower Edgewalk is an option for those looking for an extra dose of excitement. After being secured in a harness, you will have the opportunity to stroll around the building at a height of 116 storeys, which is equivalent to 356 meters (1,168 feet) above the earth.
However, even individuals who have made the decision not to walk up the tower will find that they cannot help but stop and stare at the construction, as it is visible from virtually every location within the city. When night falls, the tower is illuminated in a variety of hues.
4. Old Quebec (Vieux-Quebec)
One of the most historically significant areas in Canada, Old Quebec is recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. The most historically significant structures in Quebec City can be found in this neighborhood, which spans both the Upper and Lower Towns. Along the banks of the Saint Lawrence River, the Lower Town is the location of the first settlement in Quebec City. It is also the location of the magnificent Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac, in addition to a great number of other gems. The Citadel, the Plains of Abraham, the Place d’Armes, and the Parque Historique de l’Artillerie are all located in the Upper Town, which is perched on cliffs that are over one hundred meters high.
Old Quebec is one of the most visited historical places in all of Canada and has a thriving tourism industry as a result. In addition to the historical landmarks, other points of interest include artists showcasing their paintings along the Rue du Trésor, noteworthy museums like as the Musée de la Civilisation, and one-of-a-kind stores and restaurants.
5. Whistler
Both the world-famous ski resort of Whistler Blackcomb and the popular resort destination of Whistler, which is open throughout the year, are located within a two-hour drive of Vancouver. Despite the fact that Whistler has always been known as an important location for winter sports, it has also developed into a popular summer destination thanks to the presence of golf courses, mountain biking trails, and a lively town atmosphere regardless of the time of year that you choose to visit.
The village came to the attention of people all over the world in 2010, when it was chosen to host one of the venues for the 2010 Winter Olympics. In addition to a wide variety of activities for outdoor leisure and stunning mountain scenery, the region is known for its world-class skiing, hotels, and culinary establishments.
6. Ottawa’s Parliament Hill
The Neo-Gothic style Parliament buildings in Ottawa were constructed during the latter half of the 19th century and stand proudly atop Ottawa’s Parliament Hill, which is perched high above the Ottawa River. The Peace Tower, which separates the House of Commons and the Senate on either side, is the most noticeable aspect of this structure. Behind the Parliament buildings is a sculpture park, and in front of the buildings is the Centennial Flame, which was ignited in 1966 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Canadian Confederation.
If the weather permits it, the Changing of the Guard ceremony is held outside on the front lawn of the Houses of Parliament during the summer months. A beautiful path that follows the Ottawa River may be found just below Parliament Hill.
7. St. John’s Signal Hill National Historic Site
The Signal Hill National Historic Site is located near the mouth of St. John’s harbor, with sweeping views of both the city and the water. It was at this location in 1901 that the very first wireless signal to be received from across the Atlantic Ocean. Despite the fact that the current fortifications were constructed during the battles of 1812, it also played a key role in the war with France that lasted seven years.
The Cabot Tower is an important landmark that may be found on Signal Hill. It was constructed in the year 1897 as a way to commemorate the 400th anniversary of the discovery of Newfoundland. In addition to this, it is now a memorial to Guglielmo Marconi’s reception of the first transatlantic radio telegraphy signal in this location in the year 1901. This signal was sent from Poldhu in England and traveled a distance of 2,700 kilometers.
There are historical displays inside the tower that cover the history of both Signal Hill and the field of communications (with a special section on Marconi). You will be able to take in breathtaking vistas of the city and the coast, all the way out to Cape Spear, which is the farthest eastern point on the continent of North America.
8. Old Montreal
The charming and historic district of Old Montreal is home to some of the city’s best boutiques and restaurants of the highest caliber. Old Montreal, which is located close to the water and is part of the larger metropolis of Montreal, is where you should go if you want to feel the city’s history and culture.
The interior of the stunning Notre-Dame Basilica, the lively Place Jacques-Cartier, and the City Hall from the 1870s are some of the must-see places in Old Montreal. Other must-see places in Old Montreal include Rue Bonsecours and the landmark Marché Bonsecours, which is located in the old town hall building.
9. Polar Bears of Churchill, Manitoba
The migration of polar bears from land to ice in Hudson Bay, close to the town of Churchill in Northern Manitoba, is one of the most interesting and unusual tourist attractions in Canada. These magnificent animals make their way from land to ice in the bay after spending the winter on land.
Every year in the autumn, the doors of this little community are opened to visitors. Tundra buggies fitted with caged windows send tourists out onto the tundra for up-close encounters with polar bears as part of certain tours. The best months for watching are October and November, when the bears are in the process of waiting for the water to freeze before moving out onto the ice.
10. Vancouver Island
Even though the boat voyage from the mainland to Vancouver Island takes less than two hours, the island may as well be on another planet. The majority of tourists visiting British Columbia go to Victoria, the province’s capital city, for sightseeing and cultural activities. However, if you travel farther north into the island’s wild and desolate landscapes, you will find some surprising and amazing experiences.
Those who have a passion for the outdoors may find some of the most scenic camping spots on Vancouver Island and some of the greatest hiking paths on the island. Those who are interested in staying in a more luxurious environment always have the option of checking into a lodge or resort on the island.
The old-growth forests on this island are home to some of the world’s oldest and largest trees, with some specimens clocking in at more than a millennium. Ancient trees can be seen in Eden Grove, which is located close to the town of Port Renfrew and is reachable in a day trip from Victoria. You may also take a stroll in Cathedral Grove, which is located not too far from the town of Port Alberni, or drive all the way out to Tofino to see even more enormous trees if you are traveling up island.
As you approach Tofino on British Columbia’s wild west coast, you’ll see a breathtaking panorama of sandy coves and dramatic rocky coastlines as you get closer to the town. Around this tiny but incredibly popular off-the-beaten-path tourist town, you can find incredible hiking trails, some of the largest trees in Canada, endless beaches, great surfing spots, camping, and places where you can simply soak up nature in peace in the nearby Pacific Rim National Park Reserve.
Tofino is a destination that can be visited at any time of the year; however, during the storm season, which runs from November to March, the town sees an influx of tourists who come to admire the enormous waves that crash onto the coast. Some tourists come to Tofino to surf, while others come simply to curl up next to a fire in one of the town’s lovely resorts while gazing out over the Pacific Ocean.
Other places to visit on Vancouver Island include Nanaimo, Parksville, and Qualicum Beach, all of which are located on the island’s eastern shore and offer views of the Salish Sea. You may get away from it all by traveling to the very top of the island and exploring Cape Scott Provincial Park. This park is located in the very north of the island.
11. Bay of Fundy
The Bay of Fundy is renowned for having extraordinary tides, and it may be found in Eastern Canada between the provinces of New Brunswick and Nova Scotia. The difference between the highest point and the lowest point is the greatest in all of the world, reaching a maximum of 19 meters (10 fathoms).
The cliffs and rock formations at Hopewell Cape, Fundy National Park, the Fundy Trail Parkway, and Grand Manan Island are some of the most popular locations and sights along the Bay of Fundy. While there are many ways to appreciate this natural wonder, one of the most popular is to drive along the Fundy Trail Parkway.
12. Victoria’s Inner Harbour
Victoria and its Inner Harbour are two of the few communities in Canada that have developed their waterfront areas to such a stunning degree as Victoria has. Against the backdrop of the port, this is a fantastic area for taking a leisurely stroll, relaxing, shopping, dining, and watching street performers all at the same time.
The ancient Empress Hotel, widely considered to be one of the most beautiful structures in the city, serves as the focal point of this neighborhood. The Empress has played host to kings and queens over the course of its history and, to this day, it continues to offer a classic high tea, which is one of the highlights for many tourists who travel to Victoria. Even while the port area is popular throughout the year, you’ll find that it bursts with activity during the summer months.
13. Gros Morne National Park
In comparison to many of Canada’s most visited national parks, Gros Morne National Park in Newfoundland is more inaccessible; yet, it is well worth the effort to explore this stunning mountainous and fjordic scenery. The glacier-fed streams have sculpted out a number of remarkable rock formations in this park, which has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Other features of the area include waterfalls.
Even though there are hiking trails and options for kayaking, the majority of visitors choose to take a boat excursion to see the beauty of the area. The park sees a fraction of the number of visitors during the winter months, but it remains open for cross-country skiing and features several backcountry ski lodges.
14. Vancouver’s Stanley Park
Stanley Park, which spans an area of 405 hectares and is situated to the west of the central business district, is often regarded as one of the city’s most valuable assets. Huge red cedar and Douglas fir trees may be seen within the park, which is located on a peninsula and is bounded on three sides by the ocean. The seawall that surrounds the park features a large walking, running, and riding trail that is separated into lanes specifically for pedestrians and cyclists respectively. Beautiful vistas of the city and the surrounding mountains may be had from the seawall. A picturesque road that includes Stanley Park and its many pullouts also winds through the park.
The park is home to a number of attractions, including the Vancouver Aquarium, the picturesque Beaver Lake, as well as the Stanley Park Pavilion and Rose Garden. There are also a great number of totem poles, some of which were erected more than a century ago, which are of particular importance. The cherry trees put on a spectacular show of blooming each spring when the weather warms up.
15. Calgary Stampede
The Calgary Stampede is an annual event that takes place in Calgary, Alberta, and lasts for ten days. It is one of the most anticipated events in Western Canada, and many locals and tourists schedule their vacations around it. People in Calgary who would normally wear suits to work during this week in July instead dress in jeans and cowboy boots to celebrate the city’s transformation into an authentic western town for the duration of this week.
The Stampede Grounds are home to exciting attractions, games, and activities like the nightly Grandstand Show as well as daily rodeo competitions that attract people from all over North America. Free “Stampede Breakfasts” are served at a variety of indoor and outdoor places throughout the city by a variety of businesses. These “Stampede Breakfasts” typically include pancakes. This festival also attracts a large number of well-known country music musicians each year, many of whom travel to the location.
16. Canadian Museum for Human Rights
The Canadian Museum for Human Rights is the city of Winnipeg’s newest and most significant attraction, and it has captured the interest of people from all over the world. The structure, which first opened its doors in 2014 next to The Forks, features a one-of-a-kind architecture that is, to say the least, eye-catching. Its geometry and colors are based on images of the Canadian countryside.
In addition to being one of a kind, the museum was founded on an idea that sparked heated debate when it came time to choose which historical periods would be highlighted. The museum has an emphasis on personal narratives, presents material from a variety of points of view, and explores a wide range of topics.
17. The Okanagan Valley
People who live in Penticton and Kelowna like to say that the Okanagan Valley is on the warm side of the mountains from neighboring Alberta. This is true; this long valley is a great place for Western Canadians to spend the summer.
On the valley floor, there are a lot of big lakes, and some of the best beaches in British Columbia are here. Offshore from the busy cities, people like to go canoeing, sailing, and pleasure boating. On sunny summer days, the lakes are full of happy, laughing people having a good time.
Along the gentle slopes that go up from the lakes, you’ll find farms that grow some of the best fruit in Canada, like cherries, peaches, pears, and plums. There are many places to stay, and both Penticton and Kelowna have good places to stay.
The Okanagan isn’t as busy in the winter, but when it snows, people head to Big White, Apex, Silver Star, or Sun Peaks, which are some of the best ski resorts in British Columbia.
18. Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park
When people think of places to visit in Canada, the province of Saskatchewan and Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park in particular are not always at the top of their list. Because of their remote location, there are fewer visitors, but those who do make the effort to get here are richly rewarded for their efforts.
In this part of the world, you can expect to find that wide-open areas, enormous skies, plentiful (and unique) species, and a sense of peace and quiet as the usual. You can go for a lengthy trek through the grasslands, rent a canoe and paddle one of the many lakes, or if you happen to be here during the winter, you can put on your downhill skis and do a few runs at one of the local slopes.
Visit the Fort Walsh National Historic Site to gain some knowledge of the history of the frontier and to find out how people lived in this area in the late 19th century.
19. Royal Tyrrell Museum in Drumheller
The Royal Tyrrel is unquestionably one of the best dinosaur museums in the entire world and should not be missed. Incredible reconstructions of dinosaurs discovered in the area are exhibited in an outstanding manner inside a setting of world-class caliber. You will be transported back in time 3.9 billion years, to the period when dinosaurs walked the earth, as you make your way through the thirteen galleries here. Standing next to these giants will give you a very real sense of how insignificant you really are.
A visit here isn’t all indoors. Make it a point to check out the informative hiking trails that are located on the museum grounds and set aside some time to do so.
20. Dawson City
Dawson City, which was the epicenter of the gold rush that occurred in the 19th century, now finds its riches in the pockets of pleased tourists who come to the city to get a glimpse of what life was like during those wild times. The historical architecture of the era has been preserved very well thanks to the town’s hard work and dedication. In point of fact, the central business district of Dawson has been designated as a National Historic Site under the name Dawson Historical Complex.
The Yukon River passes through the middle of the city, and if you want to get an authentic feel for the city’s history, you can travel down the river on a paddlewheeler.
