Things To Do In Canada: Everything You Need To Know

Toronto in the morning with the Tall CN tower, tall skyscrapers and Lake Ontario

The second-largest country in the world, Canada has diverse landscapes, which range from the Atlantic and Pacific coastlines to the mountain peaks of the Rockies. Things to do in Canada are beyond its attractions to natural and city tourists. Canadian culture is a mosaic of indigenous traditions, French and British influences, and immigrant groups from everywhere on earth. From festivals to cuisines to local customs, this diversity is all reflected in the country. Adventure-seekers can explore mountain hikes and wildlife safaris, while foodies indulge in fresh Atlantic lobster, poutine, or Nanaimo bars.

10 Best Things To Do In Canada

Following are the interesting things to see in Canada and experience the foreign land to its fullest

1. Visit The Banff National Park

Moraine Lake in the Banff National Park with tall mountains covered in snow and greenery

Photo: Tobi 87 / Wikimedia Commons

Banff National Park is one of the most ancient and finest national parks in Canada. This treasure trove of natural wonders is nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies with some of its crystal-clear turquoise lakes, snow-capped peaks, and abundant wildlife. A visit to Lake Louise with its emerald waters framed by rugged mountains is a must-see. You can even rent a canoe for some peaceful paddling or hike to the Plain of Six Glaciers for panoramic views. Moraine Lake, just down the road, offers an even more isolated but equally breathtaking experience, complete with iconic views from the Rockpile Trail and tranquil walking paths along the shore.

Location: Alberta
Timings: 24*7

2. Dispel The Beauty Of Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls from the top with the roads, people watching and surrounded by greenery.

Photo: Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Niagara Falls ranks as one of the world’s great natural wonders, right across the border between Canada and the United States. Its high point is Horseshoe Falls, the biggest and most famous segment. Experience its sheer power via a Maid of the Mist or Hornblower boat tour. You are taken so close to catching waters that the mist soaks you. The Skylon Tower offers an unforgettable view from its observation deck, paired with fine dining in its revolving restaurant. If you’re an adventure seeker, zip-lining above the falls delivers a thrilling experience, gliding 2,200 feet with the roaring water beneath you.

Location: Ontario
Timings: 24*7

3. Promenade Old Quebec Streets

Tall Chateau Frontenac Hotel in Quebec with modern architecture, surrounded by greenery.

Photo: Clément Proust / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Old Quebec, a UNESCO World Heritage City, breathes history, architecture, and charm within cobblestone streets. Among these landmarks stand the iconic Château Frontenac, one of the world’s most photographed hotels, and its view across to the St. Lawrence River. Right next to it stands historic Place Royale, epitomising the city’s colonial French origins, complete with quaint boutiques and artisan shops. There are local specialities like poutine or pastries from quaint cafes such as Paillard or Cochon Dingue. For history buffs, it’s worth visiting the Citadelle of Quebec and walking along the Fortifications of Quebec, the only remaining fortified city wall in North America.

Location: Quebec City, Quebec
Timings: 24*7

4. Viewing Whales In Tadoussac

Whale watching in Tadoussac with people on the boat wearing safety jackets and whale

Photo: Hans Bernhard / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

This is a location where the St. Lawrence and Saguenay rivers meet, and from its location, it has become one of the most exotic sites for whale watching It’s a quaint little village with opportunities to witness belugas, humpbacks, and at times blue whales in their natural habitats. The best experience is guaranteed with booking, especially during the peak summer months. Observation sites such as Pointe-Noire or Cap-de-Bon-Désir also present stunning views of the river and its wildlife, making it one of the interesting things to do in Canada​.

Location: Quebec
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM

5. Glimpse Of The Northern Lights

Vibrant and bright green-coloured northern lights with a wooden cabin surrounded by snow
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Photo: BMacZeroBot / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

The Yukon territory provides some of the best opportunities for viewing the magical Aurora Borealis, also called the Northern Lights. Whitehorse City and its surroundings are in the top-most rank in the list, given the minimal light pollution observed in the region and pristine landscapes. Start by taking a small ride to the distant viewing areas, such as heated cabins or yurts, from where you can comfortably watch lights dance across the sky with hot beverages and snacks at campfires.

Location: Yukon Territory
Timings: September to April

6. Visit The CN Tower

The top floor of the CN tower with modern architecture, glass windows and cloudy weather
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Photo: matthewhenry / Wikimedia Commons

The CN Tower, located in Toronto, is a veritable destination and a must among other popular things to do in Canada. At 553.3 meters tall, this engineering marvel offers a hub of attractions for adventurers, food lovers, and sightseers. The deck is known as the Glass Floor, from where individuals can view directly downward to the hustling city from a height of more than 340 meters to the ground. The Edge Walk allows you to step out to walk around the pod of the tower while securely harnessed, taking in the panoramic views of Toronto for thrill seekers.

Location: Toronto, Ontario
Timings: 9:30 AM – 9 PM

7. Drive Along Cabot Trail

Cabot trail is surrounded by greenery with a sea on the one side and hills on the other side.

Photo: Chensiyuan / Wikimedia Commons

The Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia stretches 185 miles to offer spectacular views and is one of the most thrilling things to do in Canada. Snaking over Cape Breton Island, the trail features breathtaking panoramas that dramatise landscapes of rugged coastlines, highland cliffs, and vast forests overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. These villages filled with lovely fishing history and rich cultural heritage offer you multiple opportunities to stop and hike in the Cape Breton Highlands National Park while driving through.

Location: Nova Scotia
Timings: 24*7

8. Observe Stanley Park

Stanley Park with a lake, people visiting and exploring and the city of Vancouver in view

Photo: Dietmar Rabich / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

With its impressive 1,000 acres, a vast array of activities, and breathtaking natural beauty, Stanley Park in Vancouver is one of the biggest urban oases and a hub for the city’s leisure and cultural life. Visit the park by bike or have a stroll along the Seawall. The 9-kilometre pathway is also the world’s longest uninterrupted waterfront walkway and is graced by Vancouver’s skyline, the North Shore Mountains, and views of the Pacific Ocean. Along the way, be on the lookout for popular attractions such as the Brockton Point Totem Poles. Take a strolling experience through the lush forests in the park, visit the Vancouver Aquarium, or enjoy a moment of quiet reflection at one of the many beaches​.

Location: Vancouver, British Columbia
Timings: 24*7

9. Go To The Butchart Gardens

Butchart gardens with people visiting, different kinds of flowers and covered in greenery

Photo: Bill Wilson / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

On Vancouver Island, the Butchart Gardens is one of the most beautiful spots that a nature lover cannot afford to miss. The five main areas here are the Sunken Garden, the Rose Garden, the Japanese Garden, the Italian Garden, and the exotically tropical Mediterranean Garden. Each has its beauty feature, ensuring that visitors can enjoy wide-ranging plants throughout the year. Apart from concerts and plays, there are seasonal events such as summer fireworks and Christmas lights that make the visit magical.

Location: Brentwood Bay, British Columbia
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM

10. Polar Bears Of Churchill

Two polar bears of Churchill walking with a dried-out grassy landscape and stones

Photo: TravelingOtter / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Known for catching a glimpse of the majestic polar bears in their natural habitat, Churchill, Manitoba, is one of the world’s renowned destinations. Located on the shores of Hudson Bay, Churchill is prime for the fall migration of polar bears onto the ice floes. To see polar bears at their best, take a tundra buggy tour. The tours are specifically set up for close yet safe polar bear observations while maintaining some respectful distance. For an exciting experience, you can take a helicopter tour for a thrilling aerial view of the tundra landscape and the bears.

Location: Manitoba
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM

Beyond the essence of sightseeing, there are many things to do in Canada. Experience great urban sophistication, where dining is matched by diversity. Or find quietness in lesser-known gems. What really makes a country unique is the warmth of its sunsets and also the people whom you meet along the way. Finalise your trip with TripXL and enjoy the Canadian culture.

Cover Photo: Andre Furtado / Pexels

Frequently Asked Questions

It entirely depends on your interests, but summer (June–August) is perfect for hikes and outdoor activities, whereas winter (December–February) is ideal for skiing and the Northern Lights.
Canada can indeed be expensive, but budget-conscious travellers can still find good deals on accommodations, transportation, and meals.
Canada is large, and therefore, the fastest way to get around is flying; alternative methods of travelling between cities include trains, buses, and car rentals.
Popular places include Niagara Falls, Ontario; the Rockies in Alberta; Old Quebec; Banff National Park; and Stanley Park in Vancouver.
Visit famous sites like Niagara Falls, Toronto’s CN Tower, Old Montreal, Banff National Park, Jasper National Park, Stanley Park in Vancouver, Parliament Hill in Ottawa, and the Rideau Canal.

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