Summer Bucket List in Canada: Best Things to do in 2024

Best Things to Add to Your Canada Summer Bucket List

#1 Go Glacier Kayaking in Newfoundland

Kayaking on its own is energizing and takes you closer to nature. This experience turns into something magical when kayaking and viewing icebergs comes together. Come to the Iceberg Alley in Twillingate to experience this on your own and take in all the beauty of the surrounding nature. It’ll be the tiny you and a variety of unique natural formations. All of them are unique in their shapes and not each of them is big. Soak up the views and never get too close to stay safe. While you’ll surely be amazed by your glacier kayaking, the local wildlife, nice people and delicious food of the Alley will add even more positive emotions.

#2 Climb the highest Via Ferrata in Northern America

Every adventurous soul will love the idea of completing the via ferrata to Mount Nimbus and should add this experience to their summer bucket list in Canada. Standing at the height of 600 m in the sky, this via ferrata is the highest one in Northern America. To reach the peak of Mount Nimbus, you’ll have to fly a helicopter, hike through the mountains and complete the course of irons ladders, suspension bridges and rungs. You’ll end up on the peak of the mountain taking in the panoramic views. It’s recommended to complete the iron way in late summer (for weather-related reasons). Although you don’t need any climbing experience to complete the via ferrata, you have to be in a good physical form.

#3 Attend a Pow Wow in Ontario

Wondering what pow wow is? Read carefully and never forget it since it is a big part of the Canadian and North American culture. Pow wows are festivals celebrating the First Nations, Inuit and Métis cultures and heritage. Many of them take place in Ontario in summer. Music, dancing, craft workshops, shopping, food and a lot more things await you there. Come to honour the culture of Indigenous People and find out more about their impact on modern lives and history.

#4 Visit World’s Largest Freshwater Island

Did you know that the largest freshwater island in the world is a hidden gem of Canada? Manitoulin Island in northern Ontario is a great idyllic place with crystal-clear waters, historic lighthouses and rich Indigenous culture. Come here to enjoy the great outdoors in sweet serenity, discover aboriginal art, listen to local’s stories by the campfire and celebrate the Haweater festival on the first weekend of August.

#5 Canoe the Athabasca Sand Dunes

When you imagine the north, you probably think of forests, low temperatures and polar bears. Stretching along the shore of the Athabasca River in the north-east, Athabasca sand dunes form the largest sand surface in Canada. Although difficult to reach (the best way is by floatboat), the place will surely take your breath away. The best way to explore this unusual place for the Canadian north is by paddling a canoe on the William River. You’ll find yourself between pine forests on one side and golden sand on the other side. By the way, this place is home to some rare plants found nowhere else in the world.

#6 Get up close with Beluga Whales in Manitoba

Experience with Beluga Whales in Manitoba

Beluga whales are these curious white creatures that love singing and interacting with people and interacting with them is one of the best things to do in Canada in summer. Whenever they feel humans approaching, they’ll come right up to you. There are several ways to get up close with belugas. Kayaking, taking a zodiac boat, supping or aqua gliding, come to Churchill and choose whatever you prefer. Besides, you’re very likely to see not only belugas but also polar bears on the same tour if you come in summer.

#7 Communicate with Wolves at Algonquin Provincial Park

Learn how to directly communicate with wolves in Algonquin Provincial Park. The naturalist stuff of the park will tell you more about the wild eastern wolves in the park and teach you how to howl. Sounds crazy till you hear that on many occasions wolves do respond. Such events take place every Thursday night in August and September till Labour Day.

#8 Visit a Maple Farm in Quebec

Being the largest producer of maple syrup in the whole world, the province of Quebec boasts of many unique sugar shacks some of which are family-owned for many generations. Visit one of them to try out the natural sweetener, take a tour and find out a lot of interesting facts about maple syrup production, maple trees and see other maple products. Many amazing maple farms are located in deep forests, so a fairy-tale experience is guaranteed if you head to one of these.

#9 Paddle the Wild Rivers of Nahanni National Park

Whether you’re a novice or an experienced paddler, Nahanni rivers will take you on an amazing journey. Choose between a canoeing and rafting adventure and embark on the experience of a lifetime. From gentle float trips to the white-water wilderness, you’re bound to have an unforgettable experience on the waters of the Nahanni River. They have everything for everyone: from flatwater to canyons and cascades, unique flora and fauna.

#10 Dine on the ocean floor of the Bay of Fundy

Treating your taste buds to something delicious is always a great idea. If this gourmet experience takes place on the ocean floor, it becomes a whole new adventure. Ready to savor the best food and beverages while enjoying incredible views of the Bay of Fundy, get a bit of physical exercise, learn some natural history of the park, and discover its hidden creatures and critters? This is the ultimate summer bucket list experience in the Bay of Fundy.

#11 Experience the highest Tides at Hopewell Rocks

North of Canada boasts of the highest and lowest tides in the whole world, a natural wonder that should be on your bucket list. With high tides reaching nearly 50 feet, you absolutely cannot miss the experience. Come to a wharf twice to experience both high and low tides. You can go kayaking between the rocks and later come to have a walk on the ocean floor.

#12 Watch the Sunrise at Cape Spear

While in Newfoundland and Labrador, do not miss the incredible Cape Spear. It is not only a great location for hiking, whale watching, and spotting other marine wildlife. Cape Spear is the most easterly point in North America, and waking up for the sunrise there is so much worth it. Not only will you be able to take in the spectacular views but also will you be the first person in North America to watch the sun go up.

#13 Ride North America’s Longest Zipline

Fancy riding North America’s longest zipline? You can easily tick off this bucket list item while in British Columbia. Do not miss the opportunity to have this adrenaline-pumping experience. A 60-second ride will get your heart racing from the spectacular views and the whizzing wind while you’ll be reaching Blackcomb from Whistler Mountain. With the speed of 100+ km/hr, 600 ft above the forest and 360° beauty, your breath will be taken away and you’ll recommend this adventure to everyone visiting BC.

#14 Watch the horses and seals on Sable Island in Nova Scotia

Canada is truly about the outdoors and wildlife, and you cannot leave its most iconic features out of your bucket list in any case. Being hailed as an interesting outdoor laboratory, Sable Island is home to magnificent wild horses and huge populations of grey seals. I literally mean wild; no human intervention in feeding, treating, or rescuing the creatures is permitted. In fact, the Island is the most remote part of the province where land and sea meet. Besides, it’s notorious for its intriguing history. Come here to reconnect with nature and watch up closely the seals and horses in their natural habitats.

#15 See the Perseids in Grasslands National Park, SK

Although you can watch the Perseids in a better or worse way from every province, Grasslands National Park is the mecca for all stargazers. Happen to be here in the middle of August, you should be quick to come to the park for this meteor event. The park is known for being the darkest sky-dark preserve across the whole of Canada which makes Grasslands the perfect spot for the best meteor shower, according to NASA. I guess NASA know what they say.

#16 Enjoy the midnight sun of Iqaluit, Northwest Territories

Being one of the most remarkable natural phenomena, the midnight sun deserves to be on your summer bucket list. Take in the magical midnight sun of Iqaluit and it’ll feel like the daylight is everlasting. Ever felt like there’s not enough time to complete all the daily tasks during the day? You’ll be able to catch up in Iqaluit. However, we’d recommend simply enjoying the views on the beach, while cycling, fishing, paddling, or doing any other free-time activity that you like.

#17 Drive up the Moncton Magnetic Hill on Neutral, NB

Ever heard of magnet-like slopes? Experience them from your own car on Magnetic Hill in New Brunswick. This experience has something for everything: a car ride for car lovers, natural surroundings for nature lovers, and a little bit of magic for all human beings. Are you still hesitating that your car really can go up the hill on neutral? Come to Moncton to prove yourself wrong and enter the land of dreams for a few minutes.

#18 Practice Heli-Yoga in the Rockies

Looking for deep relaxation and reconnection with nature? This is when The Rockies and heli-yoga come together. If you ever tried an outdoor yoga class, you know it’s amazing. A yoga class with a professional instructor in the middle of jaw-dropping beauty after a short helicopter flight over the Rockies is two times greater. Don’t forget to add this unique experience to your Canadian summer bucket list.

#19 Get Screeched in Newfoundland

While exploring Newfoundland and Labrador, get the taste of the local history and culture and feel the taste of their jokes. Ever heard of the age-old screech-in? As a tourist, you’ve got the chance to experience it on your own. Come to a specific place (there are plenty of them across the province) and follow the instructions. You’re normally supposed to recite an old saying, eat a piece of bologna aka a Newfoundland steak, kiss a cod, and finally drink out a shot of Screech rum. No big deal and you’ve got your certificate confirming that you’re an honorary Newfoundlander.

#20 Deep-Sea Fishing Excursion in Prince Edward Island

Win your dinner from the blue waters of PEI and experience a piece of Island life. Will it be mackerel, tuna, cod, or lobsters that will please your stomach while your inner nature lover will relish in the breathtaking beauty of the ocean? By the way, whales and seals are not uncommon on such unique tours. All the gear is typically provided and everyone from novices to seasoned experts enjoy the experience.

#21 Hike the West Coast Trail, BC

This 75 km trail is famous not only for its length but also for all the obstacles you’ll experience on your way. Located in British Columbia’s rainforest, it brims with scenic views, fascinating wildlife, and tough tracks. Formerly being a travel corridor for the First Nations people, the West Coast Trail will lead you through several reserves of Huu-ay-aht, Ditidaht, and Pacheedaht First Nations. As you’ve already understood this is a tricky trail but it’s definitely worth it. It’s not for beginner hikers but it should be on top of your bucket list if you already have quite a lot of experience.

#22 Feel the Cowboy Vibes at Calgary Stampede, AB

Known as the Greatest Show on Earth, Calgary Stampede attracts over 1 million visitors each year. Haven’t attended yet? Add the event to your summer bucket list, get ready to don the western clothes and remember to say “Yahoo” while there. Concerts, largest rodeos, First Nations Exhibitions and midway stage shows are some of the things that await you in Calgary in July. This festival is about a lot of fun, history and adventure.

#23 Feast Your Belly with a Poutine from Montreal, QC

You probably know that poutine is considered a national dish of Canada, however, you might not know where it comes from. Several restaurants claim the title of the inventor of poutine, but there isn’t any unanimously recognized one. The truth is that it is Quebecois. So, while exploring the French-Canadian province of Quebec, poutine is not to be missed. Treat your belly to a delicious combination of fries and cheese curds served with brown gravy.

#24 Enjoy Whale Watching from Tadoussac, QC

One of the most mesmerizing outdoor activities in Canada is whale watching. Tadoussac is one of the most attractive places for whales. Since it’s situated at the confluence of the freshwater Saguenay River and the salty St. Lawrence River where lots of whale food can be found, spotting whales here is not uncommon. Whether you choose to take a boat tour, kayak or even see them from shore, you’re bound to enjoy these friendly creatures and other representatives of marine life. In summer you’ll usually see minke and humpbacks while beluga and blue whales are more often spotted at colder weather.

#25 Go scuba-dive-boat-charter-in-vancouver-certified-divers-only-18260P2 at Fathom Five National Marine Park, ON

With waters full of shipwrecks and crystal-clear freshwater, Fathom Five National Marine Park is the ultimate place for all scuba divers. This place keeps the history and outdoor activities connected. Except for old shipwrecks, you’ll spot rock formations, admire the greenery of grassy cliff-edge forests and discover some rare species of flora.

#26 Float on the Canadian “Dead Sea” in Manitoba

Canada is a primary destination for nature lovers and it’s not surprising that you can even find a dead sea here. Lake Manitou is half as salty as the Dead Sea which allows you to easily swim in its waters. You’ll leave the Lake feeling relaxed and healed after this completely free experience. Besides, you can get pampered at Manitou Springs Resort.

Hopefully, you found some new ideas for your summer bucket list in Canada and are already planning when and how to fulfill one of the experiences. This bucket list is a great guide for Canadians, New Canadians, and tourists alike. The questions and answers below will be of special use to tourists and New Canadians.

What are 4 Things Canada is Famous For?

There are many things Canada is famous for, however, the first thought that comes into the mind of a Canadian is hockey, maple syrup, politeness and the great outdoors.

Almost every Canada-born person has some experience with hockey (they either ice hockey in their childhood or were somehow exposed to the Olympics).
Did you know that 80% of maple syrup is produced in Canada? And Canadians love it. They eat it with pancakes, waffles and even meat. In fact, Indigenous people, who were the first to collect the sap from the trees and produce maple syrup, invented the culinary style of maple-cured preservation of meat.
You’ll often hear jokes about Canadian politeness and well they say “sorry” here more often than anywhere in the world. In fact, many researchers state that saying sorry brings a lot of security and positivity into their lives since people avoid conflicts, are perceived as well-mannered and kind in the eyes of others.
The great outdoors in Canada is amazing. The number of natural resorts and the activities to enjoy there are numerous. It's not difficult to find what to do on holidays or at the weekend for any Canadian since every province has many beautiful places to reconnect with nature.

What Can you Do during Summer in Canada?

If you think of Canada, you immediately think of the great outdoors. This country has so many picturesque places to visit where you can enjoy hiking, water-based activities, mountain biking, or soaking up the sun on one of the sandy beaches. Some other great outdoor activities include:

Camping
Fishing
Paddling
ATVing
Bird watching
Star gazing
Mountain climbing
Take a road trip
Roast s’mores over the fire
Spend time outdoors

What does Canada have that America Doesn’t?

Despite geographic proximity, Canada does have many things that the US doesn’t. It’s not only about the cold arctic air in Canada and subtropical regions in the US. Here are some interesting facts:

Canada has 2 major languages: English and French. They predominantly speak French in Quebec, although most people understand and speak English as well. Besides, Quebecois culture is deeply influenced by French culture.
It is Canada that has the longest street in the world. With the length of 1178 miles, Yonge Street in Toronto is the longest one. The street stretches right into the US border at Rainy River, Minnesota.
The Canadian side of Niagara Falls has full panoramic views of the Falls. For this reason, most people consider that Canada offers better views of the Falls than the US does. You’ll not be able to see the entire Horseshoe Falls. Besides, you’ll have to pay to see the American Falls if you’re visiting the American side.
It’s not only the longest street in the world that Canada boasts of. It’s also the highest tides in the world, the largest freshwater island in the world, the largest doom igloo in the world (yes, it does suit the bitter coldness many parts of Canada face in winter), the largest non-polar ice field in the world, the tallest manmade leaning tower, the largest naturally frozen ice rink, the world’s tallest freestanding structure (CN Tower in Toronto), the largest and most visited jazz festival, the largest colony of grey seals in the world (visit Sable Island for it) and world’s largest snow maze (it does snow here a lot after all).
Canada had the largest scavenger hunt which took place in celebration of Canada’s 150th anniversary. More than 3000 people participated in this scavenger hunt in Ottawa.

Where should I go in Canada this Summer?

You could choose one or more items from our summer bucket list which can be ticked off in one province and have a longer trip within this province. Another idea would be to choose items in neighboring provinces to see as much as possible and save time on commuting from one place to another. Do not only rely on the popularity of the place. While Horseshoe Falls might be an extremely popular destination, do not sell out if you’re longing for urban experiences.

What is the best Thing to Buy from Canada?

If you’re looking for a symbolic souvenir that is closely associated with Canada, here are a few examples. You could bring some yummy maple syrup from an authentic Canadian sugar shack. A bottle of ice wine from the wineries of Niagara or Okanagan Valley, some pieces of art from Indigenous People, something with Canadian symbolism on it (e.g., a T-shirt with a maple leaf on it), some artisan chocolate from local chocolateries. Besides, you can always bring magnets and postcards featuring Canada.

What Is Something You Can Only Do in Canada?

There is no other place on the planet where you can enjoy that many diverse outdoor activities as in Canada. From classical cycling and walking to wakeboarding, white water rafting, kayaking with icebergs, boat fishing, spotting the highest tides in the world, via ferrata and so much more. There are many beautiful natural resorts and many outdoor activities to explore the places in a unique way.

Is Canada Good to Visit in Summer?

Canada has a range of natural and urban attractions to admire in summer. From sky-high mountains to pristine beaches, diverse flora and fauna