There’s a delightful irony in publishing this post on the 4th of July, a post celebrating Canada. I started working on this post in April after hearing about a list of the ultimate Canadian travel guides being put together by CBC Radio. Now, my travel within Canada is limited. I’ve only visited a handful of provinces. I wanted to put together a post about my seven favourite places I have visited in Canada during my various travels. Some I have visited more than others, but all seven hold a special place in my heart. These are also presented in no particular order.
Nikon D750 – AI Nikkor 300mm 1:4.5 S
Stratford, Ontario
I first went to Stratford to see live theatre, but then I went back to visit a friend and quickly found a place rich in photographic options. I also should host a photo walk out there one day, it might be a hike for members of the Toronto/GTHA community but I figure it might be worth it. There is a lot to see in Stratford, especially in the spring and summer when tourism in hopping. From the beautiful 19th Century main street, plenty of excellent places to eat and a couple of craft breweries in the town. Some of the more interesting buildings include the City Hall and the Perth County Court House, there’s plenty of walking paths along the river and there’s also the Shakespearean Gardens. If you get out of the downtown there are some old industrial buildings that once houses the city’s booming furniture industry. You also have a fine example of an early 20th Century rail station and the looming hulk of once was the largest locomotive shops on the Grand Trunk/Canadian National network outside of Toronto.
Montreal, Quebec
You don’t need to speak French fluently to visit Montreal, it is probably the most English city in Quebec. Mostly because it was once the commercial hub of Canada. But Montreal is a favourite city of mine because of how vibrant the city is and how different all the sections are. It shouldn’t be a surprise to learn that the old city is my favourite section. But you also have the Golden Mile and up on Mount Royal. There’s lots to see for the architecture and street photographer here. But also for the person who loves religious buildings as there are a tonne of grand churches and cathedrals. But also if you love food culture and music the city is rich in both. But the one thing you need to learn is that resteraunts are concentrated and not spread out. While I much prefer to take trains, Montreal is a city that is surprisingly drivable. Make sure you check out the food offerings as well as the art galleries, museums and take some time to wander the streets and of course, use the subway which is probably my favourite transit system in the world.
Quebec City, Quebec
Like Montreal, you don’t need to speak French to visit Quebec City, but it will help to have a basic understanding as Quebec City is probably the most European City in Canada. It is also one of the oldest colonial settlement in Canada. There is a lot of draw into Quebec City and most of it is concentrated in the old city. The streets are a bit confusing and the city still has extensive fortifications (most date to the 19th Century). So make sure to take some time to visit the walls and the various defensive points. If you’re a fan of military history a tour of the Citadelle of Québec and wander the Plains of Abraham. Both the Upper and Lower Towns of the Old City are worth your time with most of the oldest buildings are found in the lower town, both are very pedestrian friendly. Make sure to also take the time to visit the Art Gallery, a section is housed in an old prison and there are still elements of the prison left over in the gallery. The one thing to realise is that the city is big and spread out, if you are staying the modern areas, take your car or use a taxi to get between your hotel and the old city.
Claybank, Saskatchewan
The biggest and probably the only draw to visit Claybank is the former brick works. Now before you think that the brick works are now a sanitary clean museum, think again! It is basically legal exploration where you pay the fee first before having to pay a much higher fee if you’re caught by the police (which would be the RCMP). When the works shut down in 1989 it was left as it was, complete with tools, spare parts, bricks and more. Then it was designated a National Historic Site and transformed into a museum. Yes a few buildings have been restored and the entire site is safe to visit. But it is well worth the trip if you love history, exploration and a little bit of danger. There is a cafe on site, but bring plenty of water and it is a bit far from everything. The main community of Claybank doesn’t have much and the biggest urban center nearby is Moose Jaw.
Halifax, Nova Scotia
Halifax is a fun city, not only is it rich in history it has that history on full display. And that history is mainly tied to the city’s history with the oceans and the Navy. Of course it is also incredibly walkable especially around the history core and even beyond. Of course right in the middle is the Halifax Citadel which is a great spot to see mid to late 19th Century Military there are several museums dedicated to the Navy including an amazing one housed in the former Admiralty house. And if you are like me and are related to immigrants the Pier 21 museum is a must. But also check out some off-beat choices like the old burying grounds which also includes one of the few commemorations in Canada to the Crimean War and the only surviving Flower Class Corvette. Or just wander the streets and take in the architecture.
Louisbourg, Nova Scotia
Among some of the key moments in the future course of North American the French & Indian War is among them and one of the key points in the conquering of New France was the siege of Louisbourg. While there is a small community I’m talking about the National Historic Site in this case or Fortress Louisbourg. Located on Cape Breton Island, the modern reconstruction is a fraction of the original fortification and community. But the place is amazing with interpreters who if you catch the right one might look at you funny if you ask them a modern question. There are demonstrations and make sure to check out the bakery and bring home some of the site-made bread.
Cobalt, Ontario
Okay, this is an odd inclusion but hear me out! Northern Ontario is an interesting part of the province. If you’ve spent most of your time in the southern sections, life in the north and even visiting the north will be different. There’s very little in the way of services that you’re used to, but you can find them. But why visit Cobalt, well mostly the rich history that the town has in regards to silver mining and the best part is that the local historical society has worked hard to preserve most of that heritage and has created a silver mine tour that allows you to do a self-guided visit to the various old head frames and infrastructure that once supported the massive operations. The downtown is also worth a visit as is the local history museum. They even offer tours of an old audit of a silver mine. Now there are some local restaurants and small hotels, but if you want a bit more comfort head up to Dymond. Also make sure to check out some of the other communities, New Liskeard, North Cobalt and Haileybury.
If there is one theme that is running through all my picks it is mainly history. Each place has a unique and special place in the history and story of Canada. And even in my honourable mentions that includes our capital city, Ottawa, Ontario and Toronto, Ontario. Bigger cities like Kingston, Ontario, Regina, Saskatchewan, and Fredericton, New Brunswick. And some excellent smaller communities like St. Marys, Ontario, Goderich, Ontario and Dundas, Ontario. Not to mention the entirety of northern Ontario. Also, you can always check out your town or city more. While there’s a good chance that your summer vacation plans are already set in place, this post has spurred you to consider staying in Canada for a fall vacation or something to consider for next year. We do have a fantastic country, and I have only seen a small part of it, but I am looking forward to revisiting my favourite spaces and trying more in the future. I want to return to the East Coast and take more time to explore New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and Newfoundland.