Gander Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Gander, Newfoundland and Labrador with this comprehensive travel guide covering the best places to visit, hiking and biking routes, activities, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Gander

Nestled in the heart of central Newfoundland, Gander is a charming town in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada. The town is known for its warm hospitality and stunning natural scenery, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat, or an adventure-filled vacation, Gander has something for everyone. From historic museums and natural attractions to delicious local cuisine and exciting outdoor adventures, this hidden gem offers a unique experience that you won’t find anywhere else.

List of Places to Visit in Gander

Here’s a list of the top places to visit in Gander that you should add to your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • North Atlantic Aviation Museum: Learn about the history of aviation in Newfoundland and Labrador, and relive the story of Gander’s role in the world’s first transatlantic flight.
  • Gander Heritage Memorial Park: A beautiful park filled with monuments and memorials dedicated to those who lost their lives on September 11, 2001.
  • Silent Witnesses Memorial: A moving tribute to the 256 animals who lost their lives in the anti-rabies effort in the 1950s.

Natural Attractions of Gander: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Cobb’s Pond Rotary Park: A tranquil oasis in the heart of Gander, offering beautiful trails, picnic areas, and a serene pond with a resident resident population of ducks.
  • Thomas Howe Demonstration Forest: Explore this 2.5 km loop trail through a diverse forest landscape that showcases the beautiful natural surroundings of Gander.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Gander

Gander is a paradise for hikers and bikers, with a wide range of trails and routes to explore. Here are some of the most popular:

  • Cobb’s Pond Rotary Park Trail: A scenic loop around Cobb’s Pond, with beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Thomas Howe Demonstration Forest Trail: A moderate hike through a diverse forest with different nature trail loops, suitable for all ages.
  • Gulliver’s World Park Trail: A beautiful, scenic trail with a viewpoint that offers panoramic views of Gander and the surrounding hills.

Best Things to Do in Gander: Activities and Tours

Whether you’re looking to relax or get your adrenaline pumping, Gander has something for everyone. Here are some of the best things to do in Gander:

  • Whale Watching Tours: Join a knowledgeable guide and see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
  • Salmon Fishing: Gander River, located just outside of Gander, is a popular spot to cast a line.
  • Boating: Enjoy the serenity of the numerous local lakes and rivers by renting a canoe or kayak, or jump aboard a tour boat for a unique perspective of the region.
  • Theatre: Visit the Joseph and Ethel Burstyn Theatre for performing arts and live events.

Week-Long Itinerary for Gander

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Gander, here’s a suggested itinerary to make the most of your time:

Day 1: Arrive in Gander, explore the town and visit the North Atlantic Aviation Museum Day 2: Go on a whale watching tour and visit the Silent Witnesses Memorial Day 3: Hike through Thomas Howe Demonstration Forest and have a picnic in Cobb’s Pond Rotary Park Day 4: Go salmon fishing on the world-famous Gander River Day 5: Take a scenic flight or helicopter to get panoramic views of the region Day 6: Explore the town’s great food scene, and celebrate the night with theater performances at the Joseph and Ethel Burstyn Theater Day 7: Depart from Gander

Food and Drink Scene of Gander

Gander offers a plethora of delightful dishes and regional drinks that are sure to whet your appetite, such as:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fish and Brewis: A traditional Newfoundland dish served with hardtack biscuits and salt cod.
  • Jiggs Dinner: A classic meal made with boiled vegetables, corned beef, and cabbage.
  • Toutons: A doughnut-like fried bread, typically served with molasses.

Local Beverages

  • Screech Rum: A locally distilled rum that has become a cultural icon in Newfoundland with its signature shot. This rum has a long history and is a must-try when visiting Gander.
  • Iceberg Beer: A unique and light beer brewed with water sourced from ancient icebergs off the coast of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Where to Stay in Gander: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Gander offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels and bed and breakfasts to luxurious hotels. Here are some of the best:

  • Quality Inn: A centrally located hotel that offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities and a fitness center.
  • Albatross Hotel: A family-owned hotel that offers cozy rooms with breathtaking views and an on-site restaurant.
  • Tilt House Bed and Breakfast: A charming bed and breakfast that provides comfortable accommodations with homemade breakfast.

What to Buy in Gander: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Take a little piece of Gander home with you by purchasing some of these local souvenirs and products:

  • Toutons: Purchase a kit with dough, butter, and molasses for making this traditional Newfoundland dish at home.
  • Screech Rum: Bring back a bottle or two of this local rum to enjoy and share with friends and family at home.
  • Birch Bark Art: This unique art form utilizes birch bark to make handcrafted wreaths, baskets, and trinkets.

Local Culture and Customs of Gander

Gander is known for its friendly locals and warm hospitality, so be sure to embrace the local culture and customs when visiting. Here are some tips:

  • Say hello and engage in casual conversations with locals.
  • Don’t be surprised if someone strikes up a conversation with you in the grocery store or cafe.
  • Respect the town’s history and traditions, including memorials and monuments dedicated to September 11th.
  • Be prepared for ever-changing weather conditions

Best Time to Visit Gander

Gander is the perfect destination to visit throughout the year, with each season offering unique experiences. The best time to visit Gander is between June and August when the weather is warm, and the days are longer. However, if you’re interested in viewing the whales, the best time to visit is in June or July.

Do’s and Don’ts of Gander

When visiting Gander, it’s essential to know the do’s and don’ts to make the most of your visit. Here are some tips on what to do and not do:

Do:

  • Embrace the local culture and customs.
  • Respect the town’s memorials.
  • Take advantage of local outdoor adventures or scenic drives through the region.

Don’t:

  • Litter in public areas.
  • Ignore local safety regulations.
  • Bring pets into public areas without consulting the business or accommodation owners

Safety and Health

It’s important to be aware of safety and health when visiting Gander. Here are some tips:

Safety in Gander

Gander is relatively safe, with low crime rates. However, it’s always essential to be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables safe and secure.

Health in Gander

Medical facilities in Gander are equipped to handle most minor and major health issues. It’s always recommended to have complete travel insurance when traveling.

Getting to Gander: Transportation Options and Logistics

Gander is relatively easy to access from other nearby destinations, and it’s well-connected with airlines and bus services.

Airports Near Gander

  • Gander International Airport: The airport is located in the town and offers direct flights from several major cities, including Halifax, Toronto, and St. John’s.

Bus Stations Near Gander

  • Central Transport Gander: The bus station is located within the town and connects to other major Newfoundland and Labrador cities.

Other Options

  • Drive: Gander is easily accessible by car, and scenic drives throughout Newfoundland and Labrador are popular.
  • Ferry: From other maritime provinces in Canada, you can catch a ferry to Newfoundland and Labrador.

How to Get Around in Gander

While getting around Gander on foot is an option, visitors may prefer to rent a car or bike. Explore the towns’ trails, parks, and cultural highlights. Getting around by taxi is also an available option.

Where to Go Next from Gander: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Several promising attractions are only a short drive from Gander that visitors might explore, such as:

  • Terra Nova National Park: Just an hour’s drive from Gander, travelers can enjoy camping, hiking trails, wildlife, and beautiful coastal scenery.
  • Twillingate: This charming fishing village is located on Newfoundland’s northeast coast, and visitors can explore the quaint downtown area, watch icebergs, or go whale watching.

Conclusion

Gander is a remarkable destination that offers something for everyone; from natural adventures to culturally rich experiences, and delicious local cuisine, this town is always welcoming. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or longer, this travel guide will help you plan a memorable and exciting trip to Gander, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada.

Lockheed-Hudson at the North Atlantic Aviation Museum Lockheed-Hudson at the North Atlantic Aviation Museum Gander Golf Club Gander Golf Club