CREDIT: TRAVEL.USNEWS.COM
From the cosmopolitan streets of Toronto to the mountain peaks of the Canadian Rockies, our neighbor to the north features a diverse set of vacation destinations. Deciding which one is perfect for your next getaway can be dNestled amid the foothills of the Canadian Rockies, this tiny mountain town in Alberta appeals to both nature enthusiasts and luxury seekers.
Banff
Vancouver, Canada
A trip to Vancouver is all about embracing the outdoors. Vancouverites spend their days skiing on Grouse Mountain, swimming at Kitsilano Beach and strolling through sprawling Stanley Park. Plus, this British Columbia city offers plenty of cultural attractions, including museums and outdoor markets (Granville Island is a must-see). If you’re not afraid of heights, head about 5 miles north of the city center to the Capilano Suspension Bridge, which is positioned 230 feet above the Capilano River.
Jasper National Park
As the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies, Jasper is ripe for exploration. When you’re not hiking through Maligne Canyon, whitewater rafting down the Athabasca River or snapping photos of Spirit Island, you can enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the beautiful scenery from the Jasper SkyTram. Keep your eyes peeled for the 53 species of mammals that call this Alberta park home, including black bears, elk and bighorn sheep.
Montreal
Montreal is a city of juxtaposition: Skyscrapers rub elbows with Old Montreal’s 17th-century architecture while the familiar sounds of English intermingle with the foreign buzz of French. Visit Old Montreal to get a taste of Europe (think: beautiful architecture and cobblestone streets), then head to modern attractions, such as the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts. If you’re visiting during the warmer months, don’t miss out on the Montreal Botanical Garden or panoramic views of the city from atop Mount Royal Park.
Quebec City
A trip to Europe may not be in your budget, but a visit to Quebec City could be. This Canadian city charms its visitors with its picturesque centuries-old buildings that make up Old Québec – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Meanwhile, the aromas of freshly baked bread and brewing espresso fill the cobblestone streets of the Quartier Petit-Champlain with the essence of Paris. Once you’ve gotten your fill of the city, take a trip to Montmorency Falls Park to marvel at its 272-foot-tall waterfall.
Niagara Falls
Travel to this Ontario destination to see and capture photos of its iconic natural attraction. Explore the falls from above during a helicopter tour, or see them up close by walking below and behind the falls with the Journey Behind the Falls attraction. After you’ve taken in the splendor, check out the area’s other top attractions, such as the Niagara Glen Nature Centre, which offers a variety of hiking trails. When you’ve had your fill of nature, head to nearby wineries or test Lady Luck at the casinos.
Victoria & Vancouver Island
While Montreal and Quebec City honor Canada’s French roots, Victoria pays tribute to the country’s British heritage. Many pay a visit to British Columbia’s capital for afternoon tea, a tour of the beautiful Parliament Buildings or a history lesson at the Royal British Columbia Museum. Others are interested in visiting Vancouver Island’s wineries to sample local vinos. Meanwhile, animal lovers enjoy the abundance of marine wildlife that call the waters surrounding Victoria home. In fact, there are nearly 80 orca whales in Victoria’s waters.
Prince Edward Island
Home to rolling green hills, red sandstone cliffs and a delicious bounty of seafood (this is where PEI mussels come from, after all), Prince Edward Island is the place to travel for a relaxing respite from Canada’s more adventure-driven destinations. When you’re not enjoying the beach, perfect your swing at one of the island’s golf courses. And be sure to keep an eye out for PEI’s seal population (four kinds call the island home either full or part time).
Please note, this, is not a complete list, more updates coming soon….
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