2017 is Canada’s 150th birthday so what better way is there to celebrate than to travel the country and share the best things to do? I’ve put together this list of my favourite things I did growing up in Canada and those that are still on my bucket list.
Canada is a seriously amazing country with so much to explore that this list could go on forever but I’ve kept it simple and included places and things to do from coast to coast.
1. Spend Canada Day in the Capital
There is no better place in the country to spend Canada Day than in the capital! 2017 will be the ultimate year to visit on July 1st as the celebrations are going to be bigger than ever as Canada rings in its 150th birthday! There are events all week around Canada’s big day.
2. EdgeWalk on the CN Tower in Toronto
Calling all thrill seekers and daredevils! Get yourself into a harness and try the EdgeWalk along the CN Tower. Walk the full circle of the tower 356 metres above the ground!
Read More: The Best Places to Stay in Toronto
3. Visit Iceberg Alley in Newfoundland
Iceberg Alley is considered one of the best places in the world to witness the sheer size of icebergs. Set out on a boat, in a kayak or walk along the coastline to see 10,000-year-old glaciers in colours ranging from snow-white to aquamarine.
4. Discover nature in Vancouver
Get outdoors in the city and discover the parks and natural attractions that Vancouver has to offer. Walk across the Capilano suspension bridge 137 metres above the river amongst trees that are 100’s of years old. Stroll through Stanley Park or one of the many gardens in the city. Or take a hike up Grouse Mountain.
READ MORE: A Mini Guide to Vancouver in a Weekend
5. Watch the Northern Lights
The Northern Lights, or aurora borealis, can be seen from a number of spots in Canada such as the territories in the north, the Rocky Mountains or Newfoundland. These are not to be missed and can be so strong that I’ve even spotted some of the green colours in Ottawa!
6. Hit the slopes in Whistler
Whistler Blackcomb is a skier’s dream destination with big mountains, terrain parks, and over 200 trails. Whether you’re a beginner or advanced skier or boarder, Whistler is the place you’ll want to be.
7. Take in the views on a hike in Banff
Banff National Park is the birthplace of Canada’s National Parks. It’s the oldest, established in 1885 and offers some of the best hiking trails in the country. Not to mention skiing and boarding in the winter and stunning lakes such as Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. And this year Canada’s national parks are free because of Canada 150th!
READ MORE: My Biggest Mistakes in Banff
8. Skate on the Rideau Canal
Every winter the Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, turns into the world’s longest skating rink. Don’t miss the opportunity to taste a Canadian treat, a beaver tail, as you skate along the Rideau Canal Skateway in the centre of Ottawa.
9. Explore Niagara’s Wine Region
Niagara-on-the-Lake is home to the most famous wine region in the country. Ontario is the biggest exporter of icewine in the world, valued at $17.1 million. It’s here that you’ll get to taste the sweet wine and local favourites.
READ MORE: Niagara Falls for All Ages
10. Step back in time in Quebec City
Take a visit to Old Quebec, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Quebec City. Charming buildings filled with shops, cafes, restaurants and bars fill the cobblestone streets. Churches and the incredible Chateau Frontenac can also be found inside the fortified city walls, the only walls remaining in North America.
READ MORE: 5 Reasons to Visit Quebec City
11. See Montreal’s vibrant street art
Montreal is packed with history and plenty of art. The colourful pieces pop in the winter and add to the city’s edgy feel. There is even an annual street art festival called Mural Festival.
READ MORE: Why You Should Visit Montreal (And Why I Underrated It)
12. Witness the power of the Niagara Falls
The Niagara Falls span the border of Canada and the US, creating a powerful spectacle for audiences on the Canadian side. You can see the American Falls and the Canadian Horseshoefalls which are 57 metres high with the equivalent of about a million bathtubs full of water falling over the edge every minute.
READ MORE: Niagara Falls for All Ages
13. Attend the Calgary Stampede
Every year in July one of the world’s biggest rodeos is held in Calgary, Alberta. The 10-day event features stage shows, a parade, midway, concerts, agricultural competitions, First Nations exhibitions and more. Some refer to it as “The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth.”
14. Visit Peggy’s Cove in Nova Scotia
Peggy’s Cove is a small community in Nova Scotia along the eastern shore that is known for the Peggy’s Point Lighthouse. It is one, if not the most famous lighthouse in all of Canada. This town is classic eastern Canada and will show you what a good plate of seafood tastes like!
15. Sample Goodies at St. Lawrence Market
Take a peak and try samples at the 120 vendors, artisans, and merchants at the St. Lawrence Market in Toronto. The market has been operating since 1803 and is filled with freshly cut meat, seafood, healthy sweets or those packed with sugar and so much more. It was named the number one food market in the world by National Geographic.
Read More: 2 Days in Toronto
Whether you’re an adventure junkie, a foodie, art lover, or wino, you’ll always find something for you in Canada. So what are you waiting for? Explore Canada during the best year to!