10 Little-Known Canadian Towns Worth The Detour
Canada is well known to travelers for its beautiful landscapes, lively cities, and thriving culture. However, many of the country’s best experiences won’t be found on the popular routes. Besides the mainstream tourist zones, beautiful small towns with history, natural beauty, and unforgettable local experiences await you.
These are 10 small towns worth adding to your itinerary if you’re hoping to get away from the masses and have a peek at Canada’s less popular treasures.
Saint Andrews, New Brunswick
Also known as St. Andrews by the Sea, this is one of the oldest coastal towns in Canada, founded in 1783. It is a perfect getaway with historic architecture, scenic ocean views, and an inviting small-town feel. Visitors to St. Andrews can take a whale-watching tour in the Bay of Fundy, explore the Kingsbrae Garden, or stroll through the town’s art galleries and boutique shops.
Baie-Saint-Paul, Quebec
Baie-Saint-Paul is located in the Charlevoix region and is a haven for artists and nature lovers. Its little lanes are filled to the brim with art galleries, cafés, and boutiques exhibiting local handiworks. Surrounded by rolling hills and the stunning St. Lawrence River, Baie-Saint-Paul is an excellent place for hiking, cycling, and farm-to-table dining. It is an otherwise unique and vibrant stop in Quebec.
Twillingate, Newfoundland and Labrador
Twillingate is known as the “Iceberg Capital of the World” because of the massive icebergs that drift down the Atlantic. Aside from whale-watching, the town is excellent for hiking along dramatic cliffs and experiencing Newfoundland hospitality. The local seafood includes cod and lobster and the town’s live music scene makes for a real experience of East Coast culture.
Nelson, British Columbia
Hiding amidst the awe-inspiring Selkirk Mountains, Nelson is a gem with an Artsy bohemian feel. A delightful place to explore, the town has a thriving cultural scene, independent shops, and heritage buildings. Visitors passionate about outdoor exploration can ski at Whitewater Resort in winter or kayak and mountain bike in warmer months.
Mahone Bay, Nova Scotia
Only a short drive from Halifax, Mahone Bay is a postcard-perfect town featuring a scenic harbor and the iconic three churches that line the waterfront. It is a quiet, charming place with some artisan shops and excellent seafood restaurants, making it an ideal escape from city life. Kayak in the bay and explore Oak Island (known for its famous treasure hunt).
Lunenburg, Nova Scotia
Lunenburg is a lively seaside town with a strong seafaring past and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. One of Canada’s prettiest destinations, its colorful waterfront is lined with well-preserved 18th-century buildings. In addition to its beauty, Lunenburg is the home of the famous Bluenose II schooner and the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic, where one can learn about Canada’s maritime heritage.
Dawson City, Yukon
Dawson City is a relic of the 1890s Klondike Gold Rush. History buffs will be captivated by an old-world charm of wooden boardwalks, historic saloons, and buildings of gold-rush era. Pan for gold, watch the Sourtoe Cocktail ritual at the Downtown Hotel or see live performances at the famous Diamond Tooth Gerties casino.
Churchill, Manitoba
Churchill is also known as the ‘Polar Bear Capital of the World,’ and the migration of polar bears through the area every fall brings in wildlife enthusiasts from all over the globe. Beluga whale-watching during the summer, gorgeous views of the northern lights, and indigenous cultural experiences are also reasons to visit.
Tofino, British Columbia
Tofino is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and surfers on Vancouver Island’s rugged west coast. The stunning beaches, including the renowned Long Beach, provide unbelievable waves year-round, and the adjoining Pacific Rim National Park Reserve is ideal for hiking and wildlife watching. The town’s food scene boasts local seafood and indigenous-inspired cuisine.
Elk Island, Alberta
Elk Island is a gem worth visiting. Just outside of Edmonton, it provides a peaceful escape into nature where bison, elk, and over 250 species of birds live. Known as a Dark Sky Preserve, it’s a great environment for hiking, canoeing, and stargazing, as its pristine lakes and trails are also intact.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
Disclosure: For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.
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