New Brunswick Attractions: Explore, Experience, Enjoy
New Brunswick attractions offer a diverse and delightful experience for all types of travelers. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast looking for thrilling adventures, a wanderer drawn to charming seaside towns, an angler in pursuit of the ultimate fishing spot, or a history buff intrigued by the fascinating story of chocolate, there's something for everyone in this picturesque east coast province. From the natural beauty of its landscapes to the rich cultural experiences, New Brunswick is a destination that truly has it all.
Adventure and Recreation
ATVs are a fantastic way to see New Brunswick.
For those seeking more adventurous experiences in NB, here's a list of New Brunswick attractions tailored to thrill-seekers and adventure enthusiasts.
1. Mountain Biking at Rockwood Park
In addition to zip-lining and rock climbing Canada's largest urban park is a fantastic spot for cyclists. Rockwood Park offers a variety of multi-use trails suited for mountain biking enthusiasts of all skill levels, from wide gravel paths for casual rides to challenging single-track trails with roots and rocks. The trails are well-marked, with "you are here" maps at main intersections, and updated maps available at the Interpretation Centre.
2. Miramichi River Tubing
Experience the thrill of the Miramichi RIver with Gallans Miramichi River Tubing for one to three hours. This New Brunswick attraction offers a unique way to enjoy the river's natural beauty, ideal for those looking for excitement amidst scenic surroundings. Tubes are rented on a first come first serve basis. No booking required.
3. Power Sport Equipment Rentals
Besides renting out snowmobile and Sea Doos, Out Fer' A Rip curates epic adventures in New Brunswick, catering to both the daredevil traveler, craving a taste of adrenaline on their journey, and the local explorer seeking heart-pounding thrills, whether off-road or on the water.
4. Fundy Footpath Hike
The Fundy Footpath is a challenging, long-distance hiking trail located along New Brunswick's Bay of Fundy coast in Canada. Spanning approximately 41 kilometres, it offers hikers stunning views of the Bay of Fundy, dense forests, and rugged terrain. New Brunswick attractions like the Fundy Foot Path adventurous hikers worldwide, the path is known for its tidal phenomena, diverse ecosystems, and requires several days to complete.
5. Whale Watching
Set sail for the ultimate whale watching experience with Cruisin' with the Whales on the 45 ft. M/V Bub's Bounty, designed specifically for whale watching. Certified for open sea adventures, this vessel guarantees the highest whale sighting rates in St. Andrews. Enjoy plush seating both inside and out, stunning 360° views from two large decks, and onboard washroom facilities. Whale watch9ing cruises are ideal for all age groups.
6. Zip Line over the Bay of Fundy
Discover the adventure of a lifetime at Cape Enrage. Soar across a 183-metre (600ft) zip line, offering a breathtaking view of the world-renowned Bay of Fundy. Open daily, the zip line welcomes walk-ins, yet reservations are strongly advised to ensure your spot. Perfect for individuals or large groups.
7. Mountain Biking at Sugarloaf Provincial Park
New Brunswick attractions like Sugar Loaf Park in Campbellton, NB, offers a diverse range of trails for riders of all skill levels, featuring challenging ascents, thrilling descents, and scenic views. The park's well-maintained paths meander through lush forests and open meadows, providing a unique outdoor adventure. Whether you're seeking a leisurely ride or an adrenaline-fueled journey, Sugar Loaf Park caters to every mountain biking enthusiast.
8. Popple Depot
Popple Depot, in Northumberland County, New Brunswick, is a charming gateway to Canada's untouched wilderness, especially near Mount Carleton Provincial Park. Covering 29,322 hectares, it offers diverse landscapes and a retreat from city life. The area's rugged terrain and rich biodiversity make it a hub for outdoor adventures, including canoeing on the Nepisiguit River, wildlife viewing, fishing, and exploring cultural heritage.
9. Irving Nature Park
Irving Nature Park, located in Saint John, NB, is a 600-acre outdoor haven, and escape from city life. This park offers a diverse ecosystem, including forests, wetlands, and beaches, ideal for bird watching, hiking, and enjoying scenic vistas of the Bay of Fundy. Designed for conservation and public enjoyment, this New Brunswick attraction provides educational programs and designated areas for picnics and barbecues, making a destination for both locals and tourists.
10. Midland Ice Caves Trail
The Midland Ice Caves in Springfield Parish, New Brunswick, offer a mesmerizing hiking experience leading to stunning ice formations within a forested area. These caves, created by the freezing of waterfalls during winter, are accessible via a trail that presents a beautiful, yet rugged terrain. The natural ice sculptures are a popular destination for adventurers and nature enthusiasts.
Cultural Attractions
The Saint John City Market is North America's longest continuously running market.
New Brunswick is celebrated for its distinct cultural attractions. Noteworthy sites feature the Chocolate Museum, historic gems such as the Beaverbrook Art Gallery, and the dynamic Saint John Arts Centre.
1. Beaverbrook Gallery
The Beaverbrook Art Gallery in Fredericton, New Brunswick, is a prominent public art museum. Founded in 1959 by Lord Beaverbrook, it offers an expansive collection showcasing Canadian and international artists. A cultural hub for art lovers and researchers alike, the gallery is known for its engaging exhibitions, educational programs, and its commitment to preserving and presenting significant artistic achievements.
2. New Brunswick Museum
TEMPORARILY CLOSED - The New Brunswick Museum, located in Saint John, New Brunswick, is the oldest continuously operating museum in Canada, founded in 1842. It showcases natural science specimens, art, and cultural artifacts that reflect New Brunswick's heritage and environment. The museum offers educational programs and exhibits ranging from regional geology and the biodiversity of the Bay of Fundy to local and national history.
3. Saint John City Market
The Saint John City Market in Saint John, New Brunswick is the oldest continuously operated farmer's market in North America, dating back to 1876. Housed in a historic building with a distinctive roof resembling an inverted ship's hull, the market offers a vibrant mix of local produce, crafts, and eateries, reflecting the rich cultural heritage and maritime history of the region. It's one of those New Brunswick attractions that's not to be missed.
4. Capitol Theatre
A key cultural and entertainment landmark in downtown Moncton, the Capitol Theatre is a beautifully restored 1920s-era vaudeville house that now serves as a premier venue for performing arts. This New Brunswick attraction features a richly decorated interior, a seating capacity of 800, and hosts a variety of performances, including plays, concerts, and dance shows.
5. Saint John Arts Centre
The Saint John Arts Centre serves as a dynamic cultural hub in the city of Saint John. It offers a wide array of programs including art exhibitions, educational workshops, and cultural events. Housed in a historic building, the center supports local and regional artists, fostering community engagement and appreciation for the arts in various forms.
6. Struts Gallery
Located in Sackville, NB, Struts Gallery is a contemporary artist-run centre dedicated to presenting local, regional, and national contemporary art. Founded in 1982, the gallery provides support for artistic production, presentation, and promotion, offering exhibition spaces, workshops, and residency programs. Struts Gallery emphasizes experimental and innovative practices, fostering a vibrant community engagement with the arts.
7. Charlotte Street Arts Centre
The Charlotte Street Arts Centre in Fredericton, New Brunswick, is a buzzing cultural attraction, offering a space for artists and the community to engage with the arts. Located in a historic building, the centre provides studios, galleries, and venues for a variety of artistic disciplines, fostering creativity, education, and collaboration among participants of all ages and backgrounds.
8. Village Historique Acadien
The Village Historique Acadien, located 50 km east of Bathurst in New Brunswick, is an open-air museum that recreates the life of the Acadians from the 17th to the 20th century. The village showcases authentic buildings, demonstrations of historical farming techniques, and crafts, providing a deep dive into the rich cultural heritage and resilience of the Acadian people.
9. Fredericton Playhouse
A cultural hub, contributing significantly to the city's artistic landscape, the Fredericton Playhouse Theatre is a lively performing arts venue in New Brunswick. It hosts a diverse array of performances, including theatre productions, concerts, dance, and comedy shows. The playhouse is known for its intimate setting, fostering a close connection between performers and audiences.
10. Kingsbrae Garden
Kingsbrae Garden is a sprawling, 27-acre horticultural masterpiece in Saint Andrews, New Brunswick. Renowned for its diverse plant species, themed gardens, and captivating sculptures, this is one of those New Brunswick attractions that serves as a serene retreat for nature lovers and gardening enthusiasts. Overlooking the picturesque Passamaquoddy Bay, the garden offers educational programs, art exhibitions, and a habitat for local wildlife, making it a jewel of Canadian natural beauty.
Historical Sites
The Loyalist House in Saint John offers a glimpse into the life of early Canadian settlers.
In New Brunswick, visitors can explore a variety of historical attractions, each offering a unique insight into the province's rich and varied past.
1. Kings Landing
Kings Landing is a living history museum in Prince William, NB. It recreates the 19th century life through restored homes and buildings, interpreters dressed in period costumes, and various hands-on activities. The settlement showcases the social, cultural, and technological changes of the time, providing visitors with an immersive educational experience in rural Canadian history.
2. Metepenagiag Heritage Park
Metepenagiag Heritage Park in Red Bank, New Brunswick, celebrates the rich cultural heritage of the local Mi'kmaq people. Established to protect two of the oldest Native settlements in North America, including the Augustine Mound and Oxbow sites, the park offers educational programs, archaeological exhibits, and immersive cultural experiences in a stunning natural setting.
3. King's Square
King's Square is a historic public square located in the heart of Saint John, NB. It is surrounded by important landmarks, including the Saint John City Market and the Loyalist Burial Ground. The square features an old bandstand, statues, and memorials, serving as a key gathering place for community events, celebrations, and remembrance ceremonies.
4. Fredericton Legislative Assembly Building
The Fredericton Legislative Assembly Building in Fredericton, New Brunswick, serves as the seat of the Legislative Assembly of New Brunswick. This historic structure, an architectural hallmark of the province's governance, is also a testament to Canada's rich political heritage. Notable for its striking facade and the role it plays in provincial legislation, the legislative building is a focal point of political and cultural significance in the region.
5. Carleton Martello Tower
TEMPORARILY CLOSED - Carleton Martello Tower in Saint John, New Brunswick, is a historical fortification built during the War of 1812 to protect against American invasion. Part of a larger network of Martello towers across the British Empire, it has served various military roles through World War II. Today, it's a National Historic Site, offering visitors insights into Canada's military history and panoramic views of the city and harbour.
6. Boishébert and Beaubears Island Shipbuilding National Historic Sites
Located in Miramichi, New Brunswick, the Boishébert and Beaubears Island Shipbuilding National Historic Sites commemorate the region's diverse history, including Acadian refuge, First Nations' resilience, and shipbuilding prowess. Boishébert served as a sanctuary for Acadians avoiding deportation (1755-1763), and Beaubears Island emerged as a vital shipbuilding hub in the 19th century, reflecting significant economic and cultural transformations in Canada's Maritime provinces.
7. Loyalist House
The Loyalist House in Saint John, New Brunswick, is an historic Georgian residence built in 1817 for the Merritt family, who were United Empire Loyalists. It stands as one of the city's oldest surviving buildings, offering visitors a glimpse into the life and times of early Canadian settlers and the Loyalist era's impact on the region's development.
8. Ministers Island
Ministers Island, located near St. Andrews by-the-Sea, is a captivating New Brunswick attraction accessible by driving across the ocean floor at low tide. It was the summer home of Sir William Van Horne, a pivotal figure in the development of Canada's railways. The island boasts the magnificent Covenhoven estate, ancient Indigenous sites, scenic walking trails, and diverse wildlife, blending rich cultural history with natural beauty.
9. Queens County Court House
The Queens County Court House in Gagetown, New Brunswick, is an historic building that symbolizes the province's rich legal and administrative history. Built in 1836, it is one of the oldest public buildings in New Brunswick, showcasing classical architecture. This courthouse has served as a central point for judicial and civic affairs in Queens County, reflecting the community's development over centuries.
10. Hartland Covered Bridge
Recognized as a National and Provincial Historic Site, the Hartland Covered Bridge epitomizes Canadian ingenuity and community spirit. Built in 1901 to enable year-round crossing of the Saint John River in Hartland, NB, it fostered vital social and economic connections in the province. Symbolizing the transition from isolation to interconnectedness, its historical significance lies in its role in regional development and as a testament to pioneering transportation infrastructure.
Natural Attractions
St. Martin's Sea Caves are a natural phenomenon, and work of art caused by the rhythm of the ocean.
New Brunswick is known for its picturesque landscapes and natural attractions. Here's a list of 10 must-visit natural attractions in the New Brunswick.
1. Bay of Fundy Tides
The Bay of Fundy, located between New Brunswick and Nova Scotia in Canada, is renowned for having some of the highest tides in the world, with water levels reaching up to 16 meters (52 feet). This natural wonder attracts tourists for its unique coastal landscapes, rich biodiversity, and phenomena such as tidal bores and whirlpools.
2. Old Sow Whirlpool
The Old Sow Whirlpool, the Western Hemisphere's largest tidal whirlpool, is best viewed from Deer Island, New Brunswick. Swirling in the Bay of Fundy, this natural phenomenon is notable for the deep, sow-like sounds it emits. Its activity peaks during flood tides, offering a spectacular display from this specific vantage point.
3. St. Martins Sea Caves
New Brunswick's St. Martins Sea Caves are natural wonders formed by the relentless tides of the Bay of Fundy. These accessible caves offer visitors a unique glimpse into the power of nature, with the opportunity to explore them during low tide. The picturesque setting, along with the village's charming atmosphere, makes it a popular New Brunswick attraction.
4. Kouchibouguac National Park
Kouchibouguac National Park in northern NB offers a diverse landscape of salt marshes, peat bogs, and forests. Renowned for its rich biodiversity and cultural history, the park provides recreational activities such as kayaking, biking, and camping. It's a sanctuary for endangered species like the piping plover, embodying a blend of natural beauty and conservation efforts.
5. Mount Carleton Provincial Park
Mount Carleton Provincial Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering rugged landscapes with over 17,000 hectares of Acadian forests. Home to Mount Carleton, the highest peak in the Maritime Provinces, the park features diverse wildlife, extensive hiking trails, and opportunities for camping, fishing, and canoeing, making it a prime destination for nature lovers and adventurers.
6. Grand Manan Island
Grand Manan Island is a rugged, picturesque island located in the Bay of Fundy, off the coast of New Brunswick. Famous for its breathtaking cliffs, diverse marine life, including whales and puffins, and charming fishing villages, it's a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The island offers a tranquil escape with activities like hiking, bird watching, and sea kayaking.
7. Reversing Falls Rapids
The Reversing Falls are a natural phenomenon located in Saint John. One of many unique New Brunswick attractions, the Reversing Falls occurs where the Saint John River meets the Bay of Fundy, causing a series of powerful rapids and whirlpools. The direction of the flow reverses with the changing tides, creating a rare spectacle that draws visitors from around the world.
8. Parlee Beach Provincial Park
Parlee Beach Provincial Park, located in Shediac, New Brunswick, is renowned for its warm saltwater beaches—among the warmest north of Virginia. It attracts visitors with its fine sand, quality facilities, and lively summer atmosphere, offering swimming, volleyball, and a campground. The park also hosts events, making it a popular destination for families and beach enthusiasts.
9. Miscou Island
Miscou Island is located in the Gulf of St. Lawrence, at the northeastern tip of New Brunswick. Known for its stunning peat bogs, picturesque lighthouses, and beautiful sandy beaches, the island is a serene destination for nature lovers and bird watchers. Each fall, it becomes a vibrant spectacle with its peat bogs turning a fiery red, drawing visitors for its unique natural beauty.
10. Moncton Tidal Bore
The Moncton Tidal Bore is a natural phenomenon occurring along the Petitcodiac River in New Brunswick, where incoming tides from the Bay of Fundy reverse the river flow twice daily. This unique tidal bore in New Brunswick creates a visible wave that attracts spectators and surfers alike, showcasing the powerful interplay between the moon's gravitational pull and the Earth's water bodies.
Offbeat Attractions
Watch the seals from Irving Nature Park's seal observation tower.
Travelers can discover a range of unusual attractions unique things to do in New Brunswick, each providing a unique and memorable experience in this diverse and scenic Canadian province.
Magnetic Hill
Magnetic Hill is a fascinating optical illusion in Moncton, NB where the landscape creates the illusion of objects rolling uphill against gravity. Visitors are amazed as vehicles placed in neutral appear to be drawn upwards. This phenomenon is caused by the layout of the surrounding land, which distorts the perception of what's uphill and what's downhill. It's one of those New Brunswick attractions that's not to be missed.
2. The Giant Lobster
The Giant Lobster in Shediac, New Brunswick, is a monumental sculpture celebrating the region's reputation as the Lobster Capital of the World. Standing at 11 meters in length, this iconic crustacean is a popular tourist attraction, offering a unique photo opportunity and honouring the local lobster fishing industry which is a crucial part of Shediac's economy and cultural heritage.
3. World’s Largest Axe
The world's largest axe is located in Nackawic, New Brunswick. Standing at about 15 meters tall, this monumental axe represents the region's historical significance in the logging industry. Its stainless steel blade reflects the strength and endurance of the community's forestry workers, making it not just an impressive landmark but a tribute to the area's logging heritage.
4. Potato World
Located in Florenceville-Bristol, NB, Potato World is a museum dedicated to the potato. This New Brunswick attraction offers a comprehensive look at the significance of the potato in the region, showcasing its history, cultivation, and economic impact. The museum features interactive exhibits, historical artifacts, and educational displays, making it a unique destination for visitors interested in agriculture and the potato industry.
5. The Chocolate Museum
The Chocolate Museum in St. Stephen, New Brunswick offers visitors a journey through the history and making of chocolate. This interactive museum features exhibits on chocolate production, historical artifacts, and the story of Ganong Bros., Canada's oldest candy company. Guests can enjoy chocolate-making demonstrations, tastings, and a gift shop filled with treats.
6. New Brunswick Railway Museum
The New Brunswick Railway Museum, located in Hillsborough, New Brunswick, is an homage to Canada's railway heritage. Set in an historic railway station, it showcases an impressive collection of railway relics, photographs, and rolling stock. Visitors can explore vintage train cars, a model railway, and learn about the railway's pivotal role in Canadian history and development.
7. Pabineau Falls
Pabineau Falls is a picturesque natural attraction in the Pabineau First Nation area near Bathurst, NB. These waterfalls on the Nepisiguit River offer stunning views of cascading waters amidst a serene forest setting. Accessible by a short hike, Pabineau Falls is a popular spot for photography, picnicking, and enjoying the peaceful harmony of nature.
8. The Algonquin Golf Course
The Algonquin Golf Course in St. Stephen, New Brunswick, is rumoured to be haunted by the ghost of a former groundskeeper. Legend has it that this spectral figure, one of the creepier New Brunswick attactions, is often seen tending to the grounds, continuing his duties beyond death. Witnesses report sightings of an ethereal figure moving across the greens and fairways, sometimes accompanied by strange, unexplained sounds.
9. Campobello Island
Campobello Island in New Brunswick is an famous for its stunning landscapes, the Roosevelt Campobello International Park, and its rich maritime heritage. Straddling the Canada-U.S. border, it offers historical insights at Franklin D. Roosevelt's summer home, raw coastal beauty, diverse wildlife, and outdoor adventures. A symbol of Canadian-American friendship, it's a serene retreat showcasing Atlantic Canada's natural and cultural treasures.
10. Irving Nature Park’s Seal Observation Tower
Irving Nature Park's Seal Observation Tower is a unique vantage point in Saint John, New Brunswick, offering visitors unparalleled views of the Bay of Fundy. Designed for wildlife enthusiasts, New Brunswick attactions like this observation tower allows for the spotting of harbour seals and various bird species, providing a serene and educational experience amidst the park's natural beauty.
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