New Brunswick may be known for its natural beauty, parks and beaches, but a visit to the cities found across the province is a must for anyone. Shop for French-inspired goods in Moncton and Dieppe, two of the great urban centres, or watch world-class performances at Casino New Brunswick and Capitol Theatre. Family holidays in these cities are a blast thanks to Magnetic Hill Zoo and Magic Mountain Water Park. The provincial capital, Fredericton, is best known for the Beaverbrook Art Gallery, the Historic Garrison District and activities along the Saint John River, which flows through the city. Culinary delights await at the City Market in the port city of Saint John, while history and culture meet at the New Brunswick Museum and the Saint John Arts Centre. Take a look at our New Brunswick & Maine self drive tour which takes in a number of these cities.
Saint John, Canada’s oldest incorporated city, is also the only city on the beautiful Bay of Fundy. There is simply no other place in the Maritimes where the urban charms of a vibrant, historic city nestle up against the grand, natural allure of this world-famous bay.
The delightful port architecture makes a perfect backdrop to stroll along Market Square, watching the cruise ships dock at the harbour and taking in the fine restaurants, galleries and shops along the way. View the famous Reversing Rapids as the tides of the Bay of Fundy actually force the waters at the mouth of the St. John River to reverse its flow.
There’s so much to learn at the New Brunswick Museum that features the Hall of Great Whales and 3 floors of fascinating galleries. Don’t miss the Saint John City Market, the oldest continuing farmers’ market in North America, with its rafters that resemble the inverted hull of a ship. Find the perfect blend of the great outdoors so close to city life at the Irving Nature Park with its 11 km (7 mi.) of trails. Or make a day of it at Rockwood Park, one of the geosites within the Stonehammer Geopark, the only UNESCO-supported global geopark in North America. The children will love spending a day at Cherry Brook Zoo, and everyone will find enjoyment watching one of the many productions at Imperial Theatre!
Many of New Brunswick’s top tourist destinations are within an easy commute from the city. Don’t miss the culinary delights at Moncton’s World Wine & Food Expo. Along with the urban nightlife, take in the live performances at The Capitol Theatre, one of the few fully restored vaudeville theatres in Canada.
The city of Moncton is just a drive away from idyllic beaches and magnificent natural wonders. It’s the only Atlantic city where you can take day trips to the Fundy and Acadian coasts and still be back in time for a fine dining experience!
A bilingual city, Moncton is home a diverse cultural community. Visit the Musée acadien de l’Université de Moncton to learn more about the resilient past of the Acadian people. Family-friendly, Moncton is also wild, wet and wonderful - thrill to the slides and other rides at Magic Mountain Water Park. We dare you to figure out how your car rolls uphill at the extraordinary Magnetic Hill that also boasts the award-winning Magnetic Hill Zoo.
The River is just the begining
Situated along the world-famous salmon fishing river, the city of Miramichi offers cultural experiences that allow you to discover the heritage of the region and its people. If you’ve ever tangled with the mighty Atlantic salmon, you know the fish tales are true. The ghost stories, lumberjack legends and other local folklore we leave to your imagination. The art of storytelling is ingrained in the roots of Miramichi. The city is also known for its variety of popular festivals like Canada’s Irish Festival on the Miramichi and Miramichi Folksong Festival. Experience a traditional powwow in one of the neighbouring First Nations communities and be prepared to be captivated by the genuine hospitality.
Get a real feel for the shipbuilding roots of the mighty Miramichi River at Ritchie Wharf Park where you can enjoy the boardwalk, entertainment, restaurants, artists’ gallery and boat charters on site. Children will enjoy the adventure playground and splash pad. Then visit Boishébert and Beaubears Island Shipbuilding National Historic Site ofCanada with costumed guides to learn about the Acadians who took refuge there and the shipbuilding of centuries past. On Middle Island you will hear the story of Irish immigrants and the hardships they endured.
Learn about salmon conservation at Canada’s oldest fish hatchery. Visit French Fort Cove Nature Park but don’t be afraid of spooks on the Headless Nun Tour.
