Welcome to New Brunswick – a gem on Canada’s east coast known for its wild coastal beauty, historical charm, and vibrant communities. From the towering tides of the Bay of Fundy to charming seaside towns like St. Andrews by-the-Sea, New Brunswick offers unforgettable experiences for every traveler. Let’s dive into this journey through the highlights of New Brunswick, covering its must-see attractions, cozy places to stay, and the best ways to get around
Top Tourist Attractions
1. Bay of Fundy The Bay of Fundy is famous for having the highest tides in the world. Visitors can witness this natural phenomenon at places like:
- Hopewell Rocks: Marvel at the unique flowerpot rock formations, shaped by the dramatic tides. You can explore the area at low tide and walk among the rocks, or take a guided tour.
- Fundy National Park: Offers hiking trails, waterfalls, and breathtaking views of the Bay of Fundy. The park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts with activities like hiking, kayaking, and birdwatching.
2. Magnetic Hill Located near Moncton, Magnetic Hill is a popular optical illusion where downhill slopes appear to be uphill. It’s a fun and quirky spot for visitors looking to experience something unusual.
3. Kings Landing Historical Settlement Step back in time at Kings Landing, a living history museum near Fredericton. This re-created 19th-century village offers interactive exhibits and demonstrations of traditional crafts, daily life, and historical reenactments.
4. Fundy Trail Parkway This scenic drive along the Bay of Fundy coastline features stunning viewpoints, hiking trails, and picturesque waterfalls. Highlights include the dramatic cliffs of the Cape Enrage area and the beautiful Bennett Brook Falls.
5. Fredericton’s Historic Sites Fredericton, the provincial capital, is home to several historic sites, including:
- The New Brunswick Legislative Building: An impressive structure with guided tours available.
- Old Government House: A historic home offering insights into the province’s political history.
6. St. Andrews by-the-Sea This charming seaside town is known for its beautiful historic architecture, the Algonquin Resort, and the lovely Kingsbrae Garden. It’s a great spot for whale watching and exploring the local maritime culture.
Accommodations
1. The Algonquin Resort, St. Andrews by-the-Sea This luxurious resort combines classic charm with modern amenities. Set in a historic building, the Algonquin offers stunning ocean views, a golf course, and a relaxing spa.
2. Fundy National Park’s Camping Facilities For nature lovers, Fundy National Park offers a range of camping options, including serviced and non-serviced sites. It’s an ideal choice for those looking to stay close to the park’s hiking trails and natural beauty.
3. Chaleur Bay Hotel, Bathurst Located in Bathurst, this hotel offers comfortable accommodations with easy access to the Chaleur Bay area. It’s a great base for exploring northern New Brunswick.
4. The Beaverbrook Art Gallery Inn, Fredericton Adjacent to the Beaverbrook Art Gallery, this boutique inn offers elegant accommodations with access to the gallery’s impressive art collection.
5. The Westin Hotel, Moncton A modern hotel located in the heart of Moncton, The Westin provides upscale amenities, including an indoor pool, fitness center, and convenient access to local attractions.
Transportation
1. By Car Driving is the most flexible way to explore New Brunswick. Major highways connect key destinations, and rental cars are readily available. The province’s scenic routes offer beautiful drives through its varied landscapes.
2. Public Transit New Brunswick has limited public transit options. The Maritime Bus service connects major cities and towns, including Moncton, Fredericton, and Saint John. For local travel, buses and taxis are available in larger cities.
3. Rail Travel While New Brunswick no longer has passenger rail service, VIA Rail offers routes through neighboring provinces, with connections available to New Brunswick via bus or car rental.
4. Taxis and Ride-Sharing Taxi services operate in major cities and towns, and ride-sharing apps like Uber are available in urban areas such as Moncton and Fredericton.
5. Bicycle Rentals For a more leisurely exploration, consider renting a bicycle. Some cities, like Fredericton, have bike rental services and dedicated trails for a pleasant ride through the city and surrounding areas.
Final Thoughts on Visiting New Brunswick
New Brunswick combines the beauty of nature with rich history and friendly communities. Whether you’re exploring the Bay of Fundy’s majestic tides, delving into Fredericton’s historic past, or soaking in the charm of St. Andrews, this province offers something for everyone. With a variety of accommodations and transportation options, planning your New Brunswick adventure is easier than ever. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable journey through Canada’s picturesque east coast