New Brunswick Travel Guide

Explore the beauty of Atlantic Canada with our comprehensive guide to New Brunswick. Discover the best places to visit, stay, eat, and explore in this stunning province.


Introduction to New Brunswick

New Brunswick is a province in Atlantic Canada, located in the eastern part of Canada. With pristine natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture, New Brunswick is one of the most popular travel destinations in Canada. This comprehensive guide will help you explore the best of this stunning province, including places to visit, outdoor adventures, local culture, and more.

List of Places to Visit in New Brunswick

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

New Brunswick boasts a rich history, and there are several museums and historical places that you can visit to learn more about the province’s past. Here are some of the must-visit places:

  • New Brunswick Museum
  • Fort Beausejour National Historic Site
  • Kings Landing Historical Settlement
  • Village Historique Acadien
  • The Loyalist House Museum

Natural Attractions of New Brunswick: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

If you are a nature lover, New Brunswick has much to offer. From stunning beaches to lush forests, there are several natural wonders that you can explore in the province. Here are some of the must-visit natural attractions:

  • Fundy National Park
  • Hopewell Rocks
  • Kouchibouguac National Park
  • Bay of Fundy
  • Mount Carleton Provincial Park

Hiking/Biking Routes of New Brunswick

New Brunswick has some of the best hiking and biking routes in Canada. Here are some of the top trails that you can explore in the province:

  • Fundy Trail Parkway
  • Sugarloaf Provincial Park Trails
  • Dobson Trail
  • Nepisiguit Mi’gmaq Trail
  • Sackville Waterfowl Park Trail

Best Things to Do in New Brunswick: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking and biking, there are several other activities and tours that you can enjoy in New Brunswick. Here are some of the top things to do in the province:

  • Whale Watching
  • Salmon Fishing
  • Kayaking in the Bay of Fundy
  • Saint John Reverse Falls Jet Boat Tour
  • St. Martins Sea Caves and Beach Tour

Week-Long Itinerary for New Brunswick

If you are planning to spend a week in New Brunswick, here’s a sample itinerary that you can follow:

Day 1: Saint John

  • Visit the reverses falls
  • Explore the New Brunswick Museum
  • Take a walking tour of the city

Day 2: Fundy National Park

  • Hike the Fundy Trail Parkway
  • Visit the Hopewell Rocks

Day 3: Kouchibouguac National Park

  • Kayak in the Bay of Fundy
  • Explore the sand dunes

Day 4: Moncton

  • Visit the Magnetic Hill
  • Check out the Moncton Zoo

Day 5: Fredericton

  • Visit the Kings Landing Historical Settlement
  • Explore downtown Fredericton

Day 6: Saint Andrews

  • Whale watching tour
  • Visit the Huntsman Marine Science Center

Day 7: St. Martins

  • Visit the St. Martins Sea Caves and Beach
  • Enjoy a seafood lunch

Food and Drink Scene of New Brunswick

Must-Try Dishes

New Brunswick offers a unique culinary scene that is influenced by the province’s history and culture. Here are some of the must-try dishes:

  • Poutine Râpée
  • Fiddleheads
  • Lobster Rolls
  • Rappie Pie
  • Seafood Chowder

Local Beverages

New Brunswick is known for its craft beer and wine. Here are some of the top local beverages that you can enjoy in the province:

  • Picaroons Traditional Ales
  • Moosehead Breweries
  • Saint John Ale House
  • Magnetic Hill Winery
  • Winegarden Estate

Where to Stay in New Brunswick: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

New Brunswick offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxurious hotels to cozy guesthouses. Here are some of the best places to stay in the province:

  • Delta Hotels by Marriott Saint John
  • Algonquin Resort St. Andrews by-the-Sea, Autograph Collection
  • Château Saint John Hotel & Suites
  • Hilton Saint John
  • Auberge de la Vallée

What to Buy in New Brunswick: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

New Brunswick has several unique local products that you can bring home as souvenirs. Here are some of the top things to buy in the province:

  • Maple syrup
  • Fiddlehead pickles
  • Handmade crafts
  • Lobster-themed souvenirs
  • Local wine and beer

Local Culture and Customs of New Brunswick

New Brunswick is home to a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in the province’s art, music, and traditions. Here are some of the things that you should know about the local culture and customs:

  • The province has a strong Acadian and Indigenous culture.
  • Music is an important part of the province’s culture, with many festivals and events featuring traditional music.
  • The province celebrates many cultural events, including the Acadian Day and the Saint John Exhibition.
  • The locals are friendly and welcoming, and appreciate visitors who take the time to learn about their culture.

Best Time to Visit New Brunswick

The best time to visit New Brunswick is from May to October, when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its best. The fall season, in particular, is a great time to visit, as the foliage is stunning and the crowds are smaller.

Do’s and Don’ts of New Brunswick

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Take time to explore the natural beauty of the province.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.
  • Learn some French phrases, especially if you are traveling to the Acadian regions.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the environment.
  • Disrespect the locals or their traditions.
  • Assume that everyone speaks English.

Safety and Health

Safety in New Brunswick

New Brunswick is a safe destination for travelers, with a low crime rate and friendly locals. However, it’s important to take standard safety precautions, such as locking your car and avoiding unsafe areas at night.

Health in New Brunswick

The healthcare system in New Brunswick is of high quality, and visitors can access emergency medical services if needed. It’s important to have travel insurance, especially if you plan to engage in adventure activities or sports.

Getting to New Brunswick: Transportation Options and Logistics

New Brunswick is well-connected to other parts of Canada and the US, with several transportation options available.

Airports Near New Brunswick

  • Fredericton International Airport
  • Greater Moncton Roméo LeBlanc International Airport
  • Saint John Airport

Bus Stations Near New Brunswick

  • Maritime Bus

Other Options

  • Train: VIA Rail operates service between Montreal and Halifax, with stops in Fredericton and Moncton.
  • Car: New Brunswick is easily accessible by car.

How to Get Around in New Brunswick

The best way to explore New Brunswick is by car, as it offers greater flexibility and allows you to explore remote locations. Alternatively, you can use public transportation, such as buses or trains, to get around.

Where to Go Next from New Brunswick: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have more time to explore, there are several nearby destinations and excursions that you can consider:

  • Prince Edward Island
  • Nova Scotia
  • Quebec

Conclusion

New Brunswick is a stunning province that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you are a nature lover or a culture enthusiast, there is something for everyone in this province. Use this comprehensive guide to plan your trip and make the most of your time in New Brunswick.

The New Brunswick Legislative Building in Fredricton. The New Brunswick Legislative Building in Fredricton. View of the Appalachian Mountains from Mount Carleton Provincial Park View of the Appalachian Mountains from Mount Carleton Provincial Park The Hopewell Rocks on the Bay of Fundy The Hopewell Rocks on the Bay of Fundy Hartland Covered Bridge Hartland Covered Bridge


    Acadian Coast
    Bay of Fundy
    Miramichi River Valley
    Saint John River Valley
    Southeastern New Brunswick