CANADA TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
- Expert local guides and dedicated travel director
- Walking tours at each city
- Ascend the CN tower for the best views
- Cruise Niagara Falls
- Taste wine at the finest wineries
- Enjoy local foods like Poutine and BeaverTails
- Smell the roses in the Butchart Gardens
- Walk around Stanley Park
CANADA VACATION TIPS
- US travelers will need a valid US Passport
- Canada has its own currency and will not accept US Dollars
- The legal drinking age is 18 (or 19 depending on the province)
- Pack layers as the weather can be unpredictable
- Learning some basic French phrases may come in handy
- Make sure to visit a National Park or two – they’re stunning
- While most places will take credit cards, it’s a good idea to carry some cash on you as rural areas may not take plastic.
TOP THINGS TO DO IN CANADA
Canada is a huge country with an endless amount of outdoor activities, natural wonders, and historic sights. This country is perfect for people who like spending time outdoors, learning about old towns, and eating exquisite cuisine. Surrounded by two oceans, tons of mountain ranges and lots of green parks, Canada has something for every type of traveler.
1. ASCEND THE CN TOWER
This 1,815-foot free-standing structure is one of Toronto’s most famous landmarks. Its name “CN” originally referred to Canadian National, the railway company that built the tower. It is one of the best locations to get a breathtaking view of the entire city. The tower has three dining locations, including a revolving restaurant, and plenty of spots to snap the perfect vacation picture.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
The line can get long on weekends, but most weekdays the crowds are lighter.
2. STAND IN AWE OF MORAINE LAKE AND LAKE LOUISE
Located in Banff National Park, these glacier-fed lakes have a distinctive turquoise blue shade. The color is due to the refraction of light off of the rocks. Moraine Lake is only half the size of the nearby Lake Louise. There are hiking trails and lots of scenic overlooks to take in the beauty. The Fairmont Chateau by Lake Louise is the best hotel to stay at when visiting this area.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
The lake reaches its crest in mid to late June, and when it’s full, the colors are the most prominent. For the best colors, come in July and August. There is a canoe doc in the summer and a skating rink on the frozen lake in the winter.
3. WALK AROUND OLD QUEBEC
‘The Old City’ is a historical neighborhood in Quebec City that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Dating back to the 17th century, there are many historical landmarks steeped in a rich history. There is a funicular you can take to Lower Town, and a stone church that was built in 1688, plus a Place Royale square with charming boutiques. Stroll through the modest cobblestone streets and find a place to grab a bite or an artisan souvenir to bring back home.
YOU SHOULD KNOW
- While some people might speak English, French is the first and primary language here.
- This is a great place to take the whole family. There is an aquarium geared towards kids that adults will also enjoy and an indoor amusement park with 18 rides.
4. RELAX IN STANLEY PARK
Stanley Park borders downtown Vancouver and is almost nearly surrounded by water. As Vancouver’s largest urban park, there are lots of beaches, a scenic seawall, and activities that the whole family will love. The park has a train that is popular with locals and travelers alike. Take a 15-minute ride through the park and enjoy the views.
YOU SHOULD KNOW
- This public park is free to the public and open 24 hours a day.
- Check out the list of events that may be taking place during your visit.
5. STAY AT THE FAIRMONT LE CHATEAU FRONTENAC
Commonly referred to as Chateau Frontenac, this historic hotel was built by the Canadian Pacific Railway company. It is one of the world’s most photographed hotel because of its regal look and design. Located in Old Quebec, this is the perfect place to wander the city streets and explore the historical sites. In the winter, there is nearby skiing and there are always restaurants serving gourmet cuisine.
YOU SHOULD KNOW
- Even if you aren’t staying the night, you can go inside and admire the lobby and see artifacts dating back 400 years.
- A guided tour is available to learn more about this legendary building.
6. ENJOY THE FLOWERS AT THE BUTCHART GARDENS
Located near Victoria on Vancouver Island, the Butchart Gardens is a 55-acre oasis of lush green and colorful flowers. There are over 900 varieties of flowers so be sure to bring your camera to capture the beauty. There are three local restaurants on-site if you are hungry or looking for a break.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
The Butchart Gardens open daily at 8:45 or 9 a.m. and closes at different times depending on the season. Blooms are in full force in the Spring with countless flowers to view. Certain flowers bloom in the Summer so these months are also a nice time to visit. If you love autumn colors, reds, golds, and oranges, the Fall will be the best time to visit. Even during Christmas time, there are activities like decorations, lights, and an ice skating rink.
7. VISIT THE POWERFUL NIAGARA FALLS
Horseshoe Falls in Ontario is the most powerful waterfall, which a water flow of over 3,000 tons per second. This world-renowned waterfall can be viewed for free from the Table Rock Welcome Center. If you are looking to get an even closer look, book a tour to get up close and personal. To get a lower, wetter vantage point, take the elevators down behind the falls. The cliffside park has an observation deck on the 520-foot high tower.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
This outdoor activity will be enjoyed more during the Summer months when the weather is optimal. The late spring and early fall months can have nice weather and fewer crowds.
8. EAT SOME CANADIAN DELICACIES
No trip to Canada is complete without trying one of Canada’s most famous dishes- poutine. There are many varieties but expect to see French fries covered in gravy and cheese curds. Seafood is also a popular meal because of the access to the water. Grab some fresh lobster on the Atlantic coast to taste the heart and soul of the area.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
Poutine is available year-round, but if your heart is set on lobster, go in July, August or September to guarantee freshness.
9. SEE ANIMALS IN THE WILD
Whale watching is a popular activity in Canada because whales can handle very cold water temperatures. The Hudson Bay is a great place to see pods of Belugas. Polar bears are also found in Canada and travelers love seeing the annual polar bear trek through the town of Churchill. Joining a tour group with a local leader who is an expert tracker is the best way to ensure you see these majestic animals.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
July and August is the best time to see the Belugas, and October and November is the migration time for the polar bears.
10. TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE SNOW
Summer isn’t the only time travelers love to visit Canada. There are many cities around Canada that are the perfect place to ski, snowboard, and enjoy the snow. Whistler is in western Canada and has legendary ski trails. Hit the slopes and take advantage of the wonderful views at the summit.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
In any Winter month with lots of snow makes a great time to visit Canada. We suggest December through March for the best powder.
BEST TIME TO VISIT CANADA
Canada is large and covers a lot of land and as such, its weather can be unpredictable. As you’re planning your trip to Canada, you’ll want to know what to pack and how you should dress depending on when you go.
QUICK FACTS
Summer is the most popular time to visit. It’s peak season and you’ll see a lot of tourists in the city
Visiting during the Fall may be more pleasant as the crowds thin out plus you’ll be able to see the famous maple leaves turn red for Autumn
1. Summer – June to August – Peak Season
Average high in Toronto during the summer is 81F with a low of 57F. Summer is peak season and the most popular time to visit Canada. You’ll find nice warm weather to do most of your activities but you’ll probably have to pay a little more during this time and navigate around bigger crowds.
2. FALL – SEPTEMBER TO OCTOBER – GOOD SEASON
Average high temperatures in Toronto during the Fall is 57F and 29F low. The Fall is truly a magical time to visit and our pick for best time to visit. The weather is nice and cool, the crowds have thinned out, and you’ll be able to catch the iconic fall foliage turn colors.
3. WINTER – NOVEMBER TO JANUARY – LOW SEASON
The average high during winter in Toronto is 32F and 21F low. Wintertime is a beautiful time to visit. You’ll get the snowfall and snow capped mountains as your backdrop. It’s low season but usually busy due to people coming in for winter sports.
4. SPRING – FEBRUARY TO MARCH – LOW SEASON
Average temperatures are still cold around 30F and 14F in Toronto. Travel is still slow during this time, except for when Spring Breakers come to hit the slopes and get some last minute skiing in.