Canada Bucket List: 21 best things to do in Canada

This Canada Bucket List includes the best things to do in Canada, including unique attractions, natural beauties, and fun events.

Located in North America, Canada is known for its breathtaking scenery, endless landscapes, and lively, diverse cities. We talk you through the best things to see and do in the country, so you can plan the ultimate trip around Canada. 

Canada Bucket List

Niagara Falls

Of course, we weren’t going to begin our Canada Bucket list without mentioning Niagara Falls. This iconic natural wonder straddles the border between New York State in the US and Ontario, Canada but it is also one of the most popular places to visit in both countries.

Take a ride on the Niagara Falls cruise, explore behind the falls, and enjoy the many nightlife options available on the Canadian side. From crazy golf to an observation wheel, there is plenty for the whole family to enjoy.

You can also cross the Rainbow Bridge to visit the sights on the USA side, including the famous Maid of the Mist and the exhilarating Cave of the Winds. 

Banff National Park

Known as one of the most breathtaking national parks in the world, Banff National Park can not be ignored when planning your Canada bucket list. This is truly one of the most beautiful places in the world.

Head up the Banff Gondola for breathtaking views from the top and then example the Cave and Cave and Basin National Historic Site. 

Lake Louise

Whilst visiting Banff National Park, you could also head to Lake Louise. Because of its crystal clear turquoise waters, this is one of the most photographed lakes in the world. The lakes look exotic and tropical at all times of the year but visiting in the winter gives a magical experience for photographers. 

CN Tower, Toronto

Toronto is one of the best cities to visit in Canada and its iconic skyline is complete by the CN Tower. Referred to as a wonder of the modern world, the CN Tower offers incredible views of Toronto, the Toronto Islands, and Lake Ontario. 

If you are brave enough, you could even try the Edgewalk; a thrilling walk around the edge of the building, 116 stories above the ground. 

The Canadian Rockies

Spanning over 4 national parks, the Canadian Rockies is a breathtaking experience to be had. For a fee, you can choose to camp in the parks themselves but make sure to spend time visiting Banff, Jasper, Yoho, Kootenay.

Old Quebec City

Quebec City is an enchanting city, founded in 1608. It was North America’s first city to make it to UNESCO’s World Heritage List, making it a unique city to explore.

Wander along the cobblestone streets, admire the unique architecture, and take a tour of the citadelle. 

Grouse Mountain, Vancouver

Not far from the city of Vancouver is the next Canada bucket list item, Grouse Mountain. Rising 4100 feet above Vancouver, this is a popular mountain for wildlife spotting, outdoor activities and snow sports. 

There are various activities to enjoy up on the mountain, including the Eye of the Wind, an observatory attached underneath a large wind turbine.

The Bay of Fundy

Because of its shape and location, the Bay of Fundy is home to the highest tides int he world. 

This means you can walk on the bottom of the bay (the Atlantic Ocean) during low tide, but then see the can being as high as a four-story building during high tide. 

Visit the famous spot located between Nova Scotia and New Brunswick for a unique thing to do in Canada. 

Whale Watching in Tofino, British Columbia

Vancouver Island and Victoria are the best places to see orcas and humpbacks but why not head to Tofino for some spectacular whale-watching experiences?

Prince Edward Island is another great place to see marine mammal specifics including minke whales and beluga whales. 

Thousand Islands National Park

With nearly 2000 islands to explore, you have lots of exploring to do in this fantastic national park. Located on the St. Lawrence River which borders Ottawa and New York, you can island hop via boat cruise and kayak to fully see this area. 

Look out for those private islands and their mansions, owned by the rich and famous.

Parliament Hill, Ottawa

Ottawa is a popular city to explore and the capital of the country. Located in the Southern portion of Ontario, there is lots to enjoy here, as well as some of the best online entertainment in Ontario options too. 

However, whilst you are in the capital, you need to visit Parliament Hill. It’s home to some of the country’s most iconic buildings, including the Centre Block, East Block, and West Block. The Centre Block is home to the Houses of Commons and the Senate Chambers as well as the famous Peace Tower. 

Royal Ontario Museum, Toronto

Another Canada bucket list item that you need to visit is the Royal Ontario Museum. This is one of the world’s largest museums, holding 13 million objects from across the world. 

Here you will find 3 levels of galleries, including dinosaurs, ancient art and hands-on galleries designed for kids. 

Skiing in Whistler

With more than 200 runs and 8000 acres of mountains, Whistler is a skiing heaven. Whistler Blackcomb is one of the largest ski resorts in North America; it is so big that it is technically two, connected with the world’s highest cable car. 

Explore the historic district of Old Montreal

Also known as the Vieux-Montreal, your Canada bucket list needs to include a visit around the historic district of Old Montreal. This charming area offers cobblestone streets, narrow alleyways and historic buildings, as well as a bustling waterfront along the St. Lawrence River. 

Cabot Trail

For a scenic drive, enjoy the 185-mile-long Cabot Trail. Often seen in car commercials, this drive takes you along Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia, passing the highlands and offering incredible ocean views. 

Hike the West Coast Trail on Vancouver Island

The West Coast Trail on Vancouver Island is another must-do on your Canadian bucket list. This is a hiking trail located on Vancouver Island, stretching 47 miles along the coastline of the island. 

The hike will take you past rainforests, pristine beaches, rocky cliffs, and tidal pools, making for a unique, captivating hike. 

See the Northern Lights 

The Northern Lights are an incredible natural wonder that can be seen all year round whilst in Canada. The colorful Aurora Borealis can be seen from various places but the best place to see the phenomenon is from the Northwest Territories. 

Head to Jasper National Park, the world’s second-largest dark sky preserve, and we recommend aiming for a visit between October to March. 

Churchill

Located in the Northwest Territories in Churchill, home to around 70-80% of the world’s polar bear population. It can be a challenge to get here but we recommend a visit to Churchill; known as the polar bear capital of the world.

Here you can stay in a warm, authentic cabin hotel and enjoy activities like tundra buggying and boating. 

Attend an Ice Hockey game

Although Ice Hockey is a popular sport across the world, Canada is the home of this iconic sport. Whether it is the Montreal Canadiens in Montreal or the Maple Leafs in Toronto, make sure to catch a game and enjoy the thrill of ice hockey. 

Vancouver

There is so much to see and do in Vancouver, that it was hard to choose just one bucket list Canada item. So the city gets its spot.

Of course, you need to visit Stanley Park whilst you are here but we also recommend exploring the VanDusen Botanical Garden before heading to the Vancouver Aquarium. 

Head over to Granville Island Public Market for some tasty bites, relax at the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden, and spend your evening in the Gastown area. 

Blue Mountain Ski Resort 

Located in Ontario, Canada, not too far from the town of Collingwood, is the popular Blue Mountain Ski Resort. 

Renowned for its skiing and snowboarding opportunities, this is a must-do Canada Bucket list item for those who love their winter sports. 

You can head here in the summer for gorgeous greenery and viewpoints but for a real treat, head here in the lead-up to Christmas.

The resort and surrounding area transform into a Winter wonderland, complete with boutique stores, campfires, and tasty warm drinks. 

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These are our favorite things to do in Canada and what we recommend goes on your Canada bucket list. What is your favorite thing to do in the country? Let us know in the comments below!