7 Fun Things to do in New Brunswick, Canada

Whether you’re planning a day trip, weekend getaway, or staycation in New Brunswick, there’s an endless assortment of exciting adventures and wide-open places just waiting for you to explore in your own backyard. Get outdoors and surround yourself with the natural wonder caused by the highest tides in the world. Discover the rich culture, a vibrant arts scene, and the fresh, flavourful cuisine that’s shaped this beautiful province. You’re never far from new experiences here. We’ve compiled a list of seven fun things to do in New Brunswick during your next Maritime escape.

Located in Saint John, the Reversing Rapids are a naturally occurring oddity of nature, thanks to the rushing waters of the Bay of Fundy colliding with the Saint John River. The Bay of Fundy features the highest tides in the world and are so powerful that they can actually change the course of the rushing waters of the Saint John River and create fascinating rapids and whirlpools. The best way to experience the Reversing Rapids is to arrive at high tide and then return at low tide to see the change. But don’t worry, there are plenty of things to do in Saint John between the highs and lows of the roughly 12.5-hour tide cycle. View this wonder of nature from the lookout at Fallsview Park or get a bird’s-eye-view from Wolastoq Park.

The Saint John City Market is where locals and visitors have gathered since 1785. Home to butchers, bakers, crafters, farmers, fruit peddlers, fishmongers, and more from all around the region, this National Historic Site is the perfect spot to tempt your tastebuds. Lots of vendors are offering take-out food with limited seating available for your family bubble and masks are required indoors. The market is open Monday to Saturday all year round. If you want to check out the history of this vibrant meeting place, there’s an educational self-guided tour where you’ll see everything here has a story.

The Saint John City Market is one of the many farmers’ markets located throughout the Maritimes. Discover more great markets where you can really dig into fresh and local cuisine.

Shediac is well known as the Lobster Capital of the World, so it only makes sense it’s also home of the world’s largest lobster! Weighing a staggering 55 tonnes, this remarkable sculpture is the work of local artist Winston Bronnum. In fact, this sculpture is so large that it includes a staircase and pedestal to allow visitors to get closer and have their picture taken with it. And if the climb up to the world’s largest lobster works up your appetite, stop by the Lobster Deck for fresh lobster plates, lobster rolls, and other delicious meals the entire family will enjoy. This restaurant is open seasonally May through October with both dine-in and take-out options.

One of the best parts about exploring the Maritimes is you’re never far from an opportunity to breathe the salty, fresh air and hang out by the ocean. You’ll have lots of time to play in the sea at Parlee Beach Provincial Park, nestled in the Northumberland Strait and home of the warmest salt water in Canada. Parlee is open seasonally from late May until late September with a supervised beach for swimming, sun-bathing, reading, and relaxing.

If you just can’t get enough of the beach, this park near Shediac has 210 campsites for overnight stays. Set up your tent with your closest family and friends and know you’re always just a short hike away from capturing that perfect beach sunrise or sunset.

Fundy National Park is an adventurer’s paradise with 207 square kilometres to explore. Featuring postcard-like views of the Bay of Fundy and around 38 species of diverse wildlife, Fundy National Park is a place where you can spend the morning walking along the ocean floor and the afternoon uncovering the 25 waterfalls hidden deep within the Acadian forests. Hike trails next to river valleys, kayak along the rugged coastline, and go for a swim in the refreshing waters. If the weather is nice, stop by the nine-hole golf course designed by Stanley Thompson for a quick round!

Moncton is home to one of New Brunswick’s most well-known geographical illusions, Magnetic Hill. When you drive your vehicle to the foot of the hill and put it in neutral, your vehicle will start to roll back up the hill! Yes, you read that correctly! So, how does it work? That mystery is still up for debate, but one thing’s for sure, it’s an experience that you have to see to believe!

Complete your visit to Magnetic Hill Park with a trip to the Magnetic Hill Zoo. This zoo, the largest in Atlantic Canada, is home to 73 different indigenous and exotic species, and over 600 animals total. The zoo is open Thursday through Sunday in April and open daily through the end of the year. Hours vary depending on the season and tickets can be purchased online.

It’s one of the great ways animal lovers can have unforgettable encounters with the creatures that call the Maritimes home.

If you’re eager to explore New Brunswick, there’s no better way to see the sights than by taking a drive along one of the province’s five official Scenic Routes. On the Fundy Coastal Drive, you can make a pit stop at the iconic Hopewell Rocks or the St. Martins Sea Caves, two natural wonders shaped by the tides of the Bay of Fundy. Or enjoy the gentle landscapes of the Saint John River with the River Valley Scenic Drive, and take in a special mix of serene nature with vibrant arts and culture. These routes offer an excellent opportunity to see the entire province while exploring communities, local landmarks, and regions that make every New Brunswick road trip a new adventure.

These suggestions are only a small sample of the adventures awaiting your bubble in New Brunswick. When you’re ready to get out and rediscover the Maritimes, take a ride on Fundy Rose and catch a glimpse of New Brunswick the way it’s meant to be seen, from the water! We can’t wait to share this incredible province with you.