Due to sheer size there are seemingly countless places to visit in Canada, many of which don’t get the attention they deserve. Sure Toronto, Montreal and Vancouver are all worthy vacation destinations, but don’t miss out on some of the lesser-known or underrated cities across the country, all with their own unique charms and reasons to visit. We’re sharing a few of our top picks for Canadian cities that shouldn’t be overlooked. Choose one (or three) for vacation destinations in the New Year.
Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
If you’ve never thought about visiting Saskatoon, you might want to consider making 2015 the year you do. Vibrant, energetic and rich in culture, it’s about time the city got its due. Saskatchewan’s largest city is divided by the South Saskatchewan River and filled with a wide range of sights and attractions that cover all seasons. Active travellers can walk or bike the Meewasin trail that winds along the riverbank, foodies will appreciate the burgeoning food scene attracting more and more young chefs getting creative in the kitchen, plus there are more restaurant in Saskatoon than anywhere else in Canada per capita. Ample art galleries and museums, family-friendly activities and great shopping round out the reasons to book a trip.
Churchill, Manitoba
Churchill, Manitoba is known as the polar bear capital of the world, which might be reason enough to add it to your must-visit list, but there’s lots more to this northern Manitoba city. In addition to being able to get up close to the mighty polar bear, Churchill also offers one of the best chances of seeing the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis), as well as spotting beluga whales and a great number of bird species. Fall is when to go for polar bears, winter is the best time to go if you want to catch the Northern Lights, summer is when you can kayak, bird-watch, hike and spot beluga whales, and late spring is also a potential polar bear watching time.
Whitehorse, Yukon
Yukon’s capital city is the place to go if you want a welcoming small town vibe while being surrounded by nature. Spectacular scenery includes the Yukon River, lakes and mountains, all easily accessible to visitors. A thriving arts scene, scenic waterfront area worth strolling, and many opportunities to enjoy all that majestic nature (by doing everything from kayaking to mountain biking) make the Yukon an ideal place to spend a vacation. There is also no shortage of cafes, bars, shops and restaurants, as well as many places to stay. In the winter, you can also come to Whitehorse to catch the Northern Lights.
Hamilton, Ontario
There’s something for everyone in the city of Hamilton, which has been up and coming for the past several years. Whether you’re into arts and culture, shopping and relaxing, or surrounding yourself with nature, you’ll find an aspect of the laid back city that offers exactly what you’re looking for. Hamilton’s location along the Niagara Escarpment puts visitors in close range of hiking trails, waterfalls and forests to enjoy; while right in the city there are award-winning restaurants, museums, art galleries and an abundance of shops and boutiques. Hamilton is also home to two wineries: Puddicombe Estate Farms and Winery, and Ridge Road Estate Winery, both of which are worth a visit to taste and shop.
Trois-Rivières, Quebec
Trois-Rivières is the second oldest city in North America north of Mexico and was founded in 1634. While many visitors to Quebec stick to Montreal and Quebec City, a stop in Trois-Rivières is worth your time. The city centre sits on the north shore of the St. Lawrence River and offers several sights and attractions. Enjoy year-round activities in Île Saint-Quentin Park that range from swimming and canoeing in the Saint Maurice River, walking the trails, visiting the playgrounds, museums and art galleries, and checking out the old prison of Trois-Rivières (where some of the guides are former inmates). After you’ve worked up an appetite exploring, dine out on delicious food and explore many unique boutiques and shopping centres.
Nelson, British Columbia
The picturesque city of Nelson is set against the Selkirk Mountains on the west side of Kootenay Lake meaning that in addition to gorgeous scenery, there are many ways to enjoy the great outdoors in Nelson. In the winter abundant snow makes for great skiing and snowboarding, and in the spring and summer, visitors can hike, mountain bike, fish, play golf and bird watch. History and architecture buffs can take walking tours of the 350 heritage homes in the city, families will enjoy Lakeside Park with a beach and playgrounds and shoppers can pick up one-of-a-kind items of clothing, art and jewellery along charming Baker Street.
Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island
Prince Edward Island as a whole is well worth the time of travellers, but if you only have limited time, make sure to consider a visit to the capital city of Charlottetown. Hillsborough River, a Canadian Heritage River, surrounds the city that has charm to spare. Compact and easy to navigate, Charlottetown offers many historical sites, lots of green space, a world class theatre and amazing food. Highlights include the historic waterfront area of Peak’s Wharf, Founders Hall Canada’s Birthplace Pavilion, Charlottetown farmer’s market, Anne of Green Gables – The Musical and the cobblestone streets of quaint Victoria Row.
Kelowna, British Columbia
The largest city on Okanagan Lake, pretty Kelowna is not only picturesque, but packed with fun things to see and do. The lakeside setting means gorgeous views and sandy beaches, plus there are kilometres of parkland to explore, more than 29 wineries to tour, a wide range of accommodations to choose from and many opportunities to hike, fish, swim, go boating and play golf.
Lead photo: Rick Harris used under a Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike license
