Summary
From coast to coast to coast, these delightful small towns in Canada deliver on adventure, charm, and hospitality. While Vancouver, Toronto, and Montreal often steal the spotlight, Canada is dotted with its fair share of delightful and laid-back small towns. These towns, from charming fishing villages in the east to atmospheric mountain communities in the west, serve as gateways to outdoor adventures. Stay awhile, and you’ll discover artisan shops, microbreweries, farm-to-table restaurants, and friendly locals to guide the way.
With three coastlines — the Pacific, Atlantic, and Arctic — impressive mountain ranges, and the largest protected boreal forest on the planet, Canada has no shortage of awe-inspiring landscapes. Whether you’re considering a scenic road trip or a quick city getaway, here are a few Canadian towns worth exploring.
Golden, British Columbia
Surrounded by six national parks (Banff, Glacier, Jasper, Kootenay, Mount Revelstoke, and Yoho), Golden is an ideal base for exploring the Canadian Rockies. Beyond the obvious draws, it is also home to Canada’s highest suspension bridge, the Golden Skybridge, whitewater rafting spots along the Kicking Horse River, a wolf sanctuary, and a burgeoning craft beer and food scene.
Baie-Saint-Paul, Quebec
Baie-Saint-Paul ranks among Canada’s cultural capitals, thanks to its lively art scene. This vibrant atmosphere gave birth to Cirque du Soleil in the early 1980s. Today, musicians, painters, and acrobats frequently perform in the streets, complemented by plenty of charming bistros and one of the nation’s highest concentrations of art galleries. Located just over an hour’s drive from Quebec City, this destination embodies French Canadian charm.
Churchill, Manitoba
Known as the polar bear capital of the world, Churchill attracts wildlife lovers from around the globe. Positioned on the shores of Hudson Bay, it is also a stellar spot for beluga whale watching and chasing the northern lights, visible up to 300 nights a year. Notably, Churchill is only accessible by flight or train, contributing to its allure.
Mahone Bay, Nova Scotia
Colorfully painted Victorian homes, artisan studios, and heritage gardens characterize Mahone Bay as one of the most picturesque towns in Atlantic Canada. It is often included as a stop on the popular driving route from Peggy’s Cove to Lunenburg, but it offers more to explore than just a fleeting stop. In addition to visiting the world-famous three churches, you can head to Amos Pewter to watch artists create handcrafted pieces, bike the Dynamite Trail (bicycles can be rented from Sweet Ride Cycling), or enjoy a craft beer with locals at Saltbox Brewing Co..
Tofino, British Columbia
The coastal town of Tofino on Vancouver Island is cherished by surfers, foodies, and outdoor enthusiasts. Situated within the traditional territory of the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation and surrounded by the UNESCO-recognized Clayoquot Sound Biosphere Reserve, it is an ideal location to experience one of British Columbia’s culturally significant areas. Outdoor activities include whale watching, surfing, hiking, kayaking, biking, and more. With various accommodation options, from the harborside Tofino Resort + Marina to rustic coastal campsites, travelers have a plethora of choices.
Elora, Ontario
Just a 90-minute drive from Toronto, Elora feels a world away from the city. The historical 19th-century buildings form an idyllic community filled with artists, chefs, and entrepreneurs. While exploring charming shops is delightful, the star attraction here is the Elora Gorge Conservation Area, a magnet for hikers, swimmers, and adventurous souls tubing down the Grand River rapids.
Victoria-by-the-Sea, Prince Edward Island
Prince Edward Island is filled with quaint villages, but Victoria-by-the-Sea is arguably one of the most beautiful. The best way to appreciate its beauty is to explore the coastline, which features relics of the past, including its iconic red-and-white lighthouse. Clam digging and kayaking tours are popular, while evenings are best spent savoring oysters and lobster or enjoying a performance at the historical Victoria Playhouse, PEI’s longest-running theater.
Banff, Alberta
Nestled within Banff National Park, this historical town checks all the boxes for a vibrant mountain community: welcoming locals, stunning views, and après-adventure dining spots like Park Distillery. Whether you aim for a quick hike up Mount Rundle, a full day of skiing, or paddling on nearby glacial lakes, adventure is a year-round affair.
Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario
Renowned for its sun-drenched vineyards and charming heritage homes, Niagara-on-the-Lake offers visitors to Niagara Falls a reason to stay and savor the countryside. In addition to numerous award-winning wineries and restaurants, events like the theater-focused Shaw Festival keep the town alive with culture. Thanks to its efficient WEGO shuttle system and various bike rental shops, exploring this enchanting town is simple.
St. Andrews by-the-Sea, New Brunswick
A 30-minute drive from the border crossing between Calais, Maine, and St. Stephen, New Brunswick, St. Andrews by-the-Sea serves as an ideal stop en route to Canada’s iconic Fundy National Park. Lovely eateries like Char and Chowder and The Clam Digger serve up delightful seafood and fried clams. For a unique experience, you can drive to the historic Ministers Island, accessible via a sandbar at low tide.
Dawson, Yukon
During the Klondike Gold Rush’s peak in 1898, Dawson’s population exceeded 30,000; as of 2021, it hovers just over 1,500. Remnants of that era can be seen in frontier-style buildings, including Canada’s oldest gambling hall, and interactive exhibits at the Dawson City Museum. Thanks to the midnight sun, the nightlife here is vibrant — just ask the adventurous souls who have tasted the infamous Sourtoe Cocktail at the Downtown Hotel.
Trinity, Newfoundland
Beautifully preserved saltbox houses, calligraphed street signs, and a thriving theater culture make Trinity one of Newfoundland’s most notable towns. Visitors can watch a blacksmith at work, learn about barrel making, or spot whales while hiking Skerwink Trail. In the summer, local actors and singers donning 1700s garb bring history to life through scenic walking tours during the New Founde Lande Trinity Pageant. Meanwhile, restaurants like Twine Loft at the Artisan Inn use fresh seafood to showcase the town’s culinary heritage.
Julia Eskins is a Toronto-based writer covering travel, design, arts and culture, wellness, and the outdoors. Find her on Instagram and Twitter.
