Whether you are a local or a tourist, these holiday markets are a great way to support local businesses and neighbourhood creative artisans. But, with so many different options, it can be tricky to know which markets are worth visiting. So I’ve put together this helpful list of the best Toronto Holiday Markets you won’t want to miss during this beautiful time of year!

Toronto Holiday Markets

1. The Distillery Winter Village
2. One-of-a-Kind Winter Show
3. Swedish Christmas Fair
4. Leslieville Christmas Pop-up Market
5. Toronto Botanical Garden Holiday Market
6. Toronto Artisan Market
7. Holiday Fair at Nathan Phillips Square
8. Stackt Holiday Hills
9. Evergreen's Winter Market

The Distillery Winter Village

When you visit the Distillery District during the holidays, you will feel like you are in a winter wonderland! The Distillery District is one of Toronto’s most charming spots. Built in 1832, the old Gooderham and Worts Distillery has been preserved to be enjoyed by locals and tourists alike. The cobblestone streets and restored Victorian Industrial buildings have been transformed into a pedestrian-only neighbourhood with amazing restaurants, cozy bars and unique boutiques. 

And there is no better time to visit the Distillery District than at Christmastime! The entire neighbourhood is converted in November into the Distillery Winter Village. The streets are transformed with millions of twinkle lights and bright Christmas baubles. Wooden market stalls pop up to mirror those traditional European Christmas Markets. It’s a great spot to do some holiday shopping! The market hosts over 65+ unique and local shops, artisans, restaurants and cafés. So whatever you’re looking for, you most likely will be able to find it here!

Hours & Admission

The market opens on November 17th, and the event’s last day is December 31st.

Tickets are required on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays after 4:00 PM and December 27-31 after 4:00 PM. At all other times, access is free of charge and tickets are not required. Your ticket time window indicates what time you can enter the distillery. But there is no limit to your visit duration. 

The market is always packed on the weekend after 4 PM, hence the requirement for ticketing so they can control crowd levels. If you can go during the week, this will be your best chance to visit when it’s less busy. I always advise going during the week if you can.

Tickets are $11 + HST each. Kids 9 and under are FREE of charge.

Address: 55 Mill St, Toronto

One-of-a-Kind Winter Show

The One-of-a-Kind Show is an arts & crafts fair held a few times a year in the huge Enercare Centre within Exhibition Place. Every year at Christmas time, over 600 artists from across the country gather to sell their handmade goods. This is often my favourite spot to shop for Christmas presents and unique seasonal decor. The stuff you find here, you won’t find anywhere else! It’s nice to have such one-of-a-kind pieces of festive decor that your friends and family will be in awe of this Christmas.

With over 600+ vendors, you can wander the floor for hours. Just admiring all the incredible things people can create! Sometimes it feels more like going to an art gallery than a craft show! But here, you can actually afford most of the art you see on the walls! 

Hours & Admission

November 24 – December 4 | Weekdays & Saturdays: 10am to 9pm | Sunday: 10am to 6pm
Late Night Hours: December 1, 10 AM-11 PM

Tickets: $23 Adults | $17 Seniors | $17 Youth 5-17

Address: 100 Princes’ Blvd #1, Toronto

Swedish Christmas Fair

The Swedish Christmas Fair was always one of my favourite events in Toronto! I sorely missed it when it was closed in 2020 and 2021. But I rejoiced when I heard it would be back in 2022! The Swedish Christmas Market is hosted by SWEA Toronto. This adorable marketplace features Swedish designs, products and folk art that will surely add some Scandinavian flair to your holiday decor. I fondly remember my trip to Stockholm at Christmas and all the wonderful Christmas markets. But being back at the Swedish Chrismas Fair in Toronto feels like being right back there, without ever having to get on a plane.

Be sure to stop by the cafe to get a hot plate of meatballs and lingonberry jam. There are also many events throughout the day, like a St. Lucia procession, Swedish Folk Dancers and Swedish Christmas Singers. It’s a great event to learn more about Swedish Christmas traditions. But my favourite part? The traditional Glögg, which is Swedish mulled wine. This beverage is the perfect drink to make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside. M

Hours & Admission

November 19 – 20, 2022 | 11 am – 4 pm | FREE Admission
Address: 585 Dundas St E, Toronto

Leslieville Christmas Pop-up Market

Most people who visit Toronto rarely experience the east end of the city. The downtown core definitely hogs all the attention. But in my opinion (and I suppose I’m biased since I live here), this is a sorely overlooked part of town. The east end is full of charming architecture, a laid-back atmosphere and fantastic shopping and restaurants. But to find all that east-end energy in one place, you should head to the Leslieville Christmas Pop-up Market. The market is held every weekend in December. It features 30-40 local artisans and east-end businesses selling all the best Christmas goodies! Plus all sorts of handmade items, perfect for your Christmas gift list. In addition to the shopping, there is also a hot chocolate bar, a chance to meet Santa, ornament-making workshops and a children’s craft corner! Something for everyone

Hours & Admission

Address: 911 Queen St East, Leslieville
Dec 3-4 | Dec 10-11 | Dec 17-18 | FREE admission

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Toronto Botanical Garden Holiday Market

If you’re looking for an eco-friendly option for your Christmas Shopping, you should check out the Annual Toronto Botanical Garden Holiday Market. Over 65 local vendors come here to showcase their planet-friendly and botanically-themed festive products. If you love nature-based decor, this is the place to go. Everything from handmade real Christmas wreaths, seasonal plants, and vibrant poinsettias. There are even rare flower bulbs to give as gifts, great for planting in the spring! There are also Holiday Decor Demonstrations where you can learn how to make gorgeous floral arrangements! Something that will impress all your friends and family when they see it on the walls. And don’t forget to grab a fresh hot drink or light bite over in the charming Bloom Cafe!

Hours & Admission

Friday, November 25, 2 to 8 pm | Saturday, November 26, 10 am to 4 pm | Sunday, November 27, 10 am to 4 pm.
If you buy your tickets in advance, they are $10 per person. Tickets cost $15 at the door, so it’s best to buy them in advance to save some coins!
Address: 777 Lawrence Ave E, North York

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Toronto Artisan Market

The Toronto Artisan Market is a non-profit organization ​that supports and benefits local artisans and the neighbouring community. Every year, the organization hosts a holiday market at the Twist Gallery on Queen Street West. Everything from holiday gifts to original art, handmade jewelry, skincare, ceramics, home goods and more can be found here. One of the best places in the city to shop for the most uniquely creative gift options! Even if you have no idea what to get someone for Christmas, this is the place to get inspired. You’ll be amazed at what you find and how happy you will be to discover the perfect something for that special someone you didn’t even know they needed!

Hours & Admission

Saturday November 19th – Sunday November 20th | 11 am to 5 pm
Free Admission + Pet Friendly
Address: 1100 Queen St W, Toronto

Holiday Fair at Nathan Phillips Square

Every year, Nathan Phillips Square is a hub of Christmas activities and transforms into a magical winter wonderland. It is one of my favourite places to come at the start of the season to get into the Christmas spirit. And this year, their holiday fair has returned once more! This fantastic market is entirely free and open almost every day of the week! In addition to the fantastic vendors, there is a mesmerizing winter carnival with an old-fashioned carousel, carnival games and more! It is the perfect place for the kids to get that memorable meet-and-greet with Santa! And for the adults, there is the Polar Point bar. This holiday cocktail bar features seasonal favourites like mulled wine, hot apple cider, seasonal beer, liquor, and wine.

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The brilliance of this market is the number of food trucks there selling delicious treats for you to enjoy! Potato Twists, Korean fried cheese, hot dumplings and Tiny Tom’s Donuts are just some Toronto street food classics you can get here at the market. Exhibiting the creative flair and cultural diversity of our city is of the utmost importance at the Holiday Fair at Nathan Phillips Square.

Hours & Admission

December 2nd to December 23rd (Closed Mondays)
Tuesday to Thursday – 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm | Friday to Saturday – 12:00 pm to 10:00 pm | Sunday – 12:00 pm to 9:00 pm
Address: 100 Queen St W, Toronto

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Stackt Holiday Hills

Stackt Market is North America’s largest shipping container market and is located in the heart of Toronto’s downtown. Literally stacked up, one on top of the other, a series of recycled shipping containers are now home to various shops and restaurants. Everything from microbreweries to local artisans. It is also a relaxed place to go and get some of the most incredible views across the city. Pop-up vendors arrive at the holiday market during the festive season. They join various Christmas workshops, winter games, and festive experiences like the giant inflatable Santa’s Village! Their fire pits are the perfect place to relax with friends while keeping warm under a picturesque snowfall. There is also an ironically Canadian s’more station! Perfect to nosh on a delicious sweet treat while enjoying the magical ambiance all around you.

Hours & Admission

November 18 – December 31, 2022
Gates Open: 9 am – 11 pm | Stores Open: 12 pm – 8 pm | Restaurants Open: 12 pm – 11 pm | Free Admission
Address: 28 Bathurst St, Toronto

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Evergreen’s Winter Market

Evergreen Brick Works is one of those Toronto landmarks we all have fond memories of since it hosts some of the city’s best events! The former brick-making factory along the Don River has been transformed into one of the trendiest outdoor events spaces in the city! Evergreen prides itself on building sustainable practices that enable flourishing cities of the future. This year, after some closures during 2020 and 2021, they are hosting their Festive Winter Market again. This one-day-only event features everything from a delicious food court, a charming skating rink to immersive hikes along their wintery trails. And, of course, lots of vendors selling sustainably produced and handmade items along with artisan and vintage items. This is the place to experience a variety of classic Canadian Christmas traditions in one spot!

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The firepits light up at night, and you can grab a winter-inspired cocktail from the bar to enjoy while relaxing in the warmth. The skating rink is open all night, and under a swath of twinkle lights, it is something out of a Hallmark Christmas movie. At 7 pm, the space comes alive with live music, so grab your loved one and hit the dance floor! While many think Evergreen Brick Works is a little out of the way for tourists to easily visit, thankfully, the Evergreen Shuttle is back! This shuttle bus really helps make the journey as seamless as possible. Simply ride the subway to Broadview Station and hop on the shuttle. It runs every 30-45 minutes from the parkette north of the subway.

Hours & Admission

December 18th | 11am-5pm & evening activities from 6pm-9pm
Free and open to the public
Address: 550 Bayview Ave, Toronto

Hopefully, these Toronto Holiday Markets are the perfect place for you to check off all the items on your Christmas list! Let me know in the comments what you’re searching for this holiday season!

Happy Travels, Adventurers

The post All the Best Toronto Holiday Markets you Need to Explore This Festive Season! first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

For all the moaning we locals might do about the cold weather, there is something magical about that first snowfall that sparkles at night when the Christmas lights are all aglow. Celebrations during the holiday season erupt across the city. Even hidden parts of the town come alive during this festive time. From light displays to holiday art markets and other events, there seems to be no lack of things to do around Christmas time. So, if you’re lucky enough to be in T.O. during the holidays, I’ve narrowed the list down to only the best of the best of Toronto at Christmastime.

Table Of Contents

1. The Distillery Winter Village
2. Christmas at Casa Loma
3. St. Lawrence Market
4. Kringlewood
5. One-of-a-Kind Winter Show
6. Nathan Phillips Skating Rink
7. Hudson's Bay Windows
8. Black Creek Pioneer Village Christmas
9. Swedish Christmas Fair
10. Campbell House Museum Immersive 'Christmas Carol'
11. Kensington Market Lights Festival
12. Miracle Bar Toronto
13. Leslieville Christmas Pop-up Market
14. Nutcracker Ballet

The Distillery Winter Village

When you visit the Distillery District during the holidays, you will feel like you are in a winter wonderland! The Distillery District is one of Toronto’s most charming spots. Built in 1832, the old Gooderham and Worts Distillery has been preserved to be enjoyed by locals and tourists alike. The cobblestone streets and restored Victorian Industrial buildings have been transformed into a pedestrian-only neighbourhood with amazing restaurants, cozy bars and unique boutiques. 

And there is no better time to visit the Distillery District than at Christmastime when the entire area is converted into the Distillery Winter Village. The streets are transformed with millions of twinkle lights and Christmas baubles. Wooden market stalls pop up, and the entire place feels like a European Christmas Market in downtown Toronto. It’s a great spot to do some holiday shopping, listen to carollers wandering down candlelit alleys and just soak up the gorgeous architecture while sipping on a warm hot chocolate!

Dates & Tickets

The market opens on November 17th, and the event’s last day is December 31st.

Tickets are required on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays after 4:00 PM and December 27-31 after 4:00 PM. At all other times, access is free of charge and tickets are not required. Your ticket time window indicates what time you can enter the distillery. But there is no limit to your visit duration. 

The market is always packed on the weekend after 4 PM, hence the requirement for ticketing so they can control crowd levels. If you can go during the week, this will be your best chance to visit when it’s less busy. I always advise going during the week if you can.

Tickets are $11 + HST each. Kids 9 and under are FREE of charge.

Christmas at Casa Loma

One thing you might not expect to find in the middle of Toronto is a castle! But here it is, Casa Loma! Ok, it might not technically be a real castle since those need to be permanent residences for nobility or royalty. But Casa Loma has, since its inception, been colloquially called “Toronto’s Castle.” Casa Loma was built in 1911 by financier Sir Henry Pellatt. Pellatt bought up some of the most prestigious real estate in Toronto, high atop Spadina Road, looking out over the city. He wanted to design a house that resembled an old European gothic mansion. And the result was the biggest private residence ever constructed in Canada! While the exterior is definitely a marvel, the stunning interiors are just as, if not more, impressive. And today, the old residence serves as a historical monument and a popular wedding venue!

Christmas at the Castle

Visitors can explore Casa Loma’s gorgeous interiors every December and experience a palatial seasonal event. Personally, I think there is no better time to visit Casa Loma. This palace was built to host a glorious Christmas spectacle. With its soaring interior, the great hall features a 40-ft tall Christmas tree covered in the finest decorations. Celebrated Canadian interior designers from all over the country are invited to Casa Loma to decorate one room each for the holidays. Each one is as unique as the next and so interesting to see everyone’s different take on holiday decor.

If you bring the kids, you’ll be able to see Santa in his castle workshop and even talk to some of his elves. My favourite part is grabbing a cup of hot cocoa, exploring the illuminated gardens, and listening to the live music playing throughout the day. Simply magical.

Casa Loma Tickets

Ticket prices start at $30 and vary throughout the week. The best advice is to book your tickets in advance as certain busy times will sell out.

St. Lawrence Market

St. Lawrence Market is one of the most popular foodie destinations in Toronto. It originated as a small public market in 1803 but grew in size and eventually expanded in 1814 into the building you see today. It is Toronto’s “temple of food,” with over 120 vendors selling everything from fresh produce to meats, cheeses and other specialty items.

The market is all decked out for the holidays during the Christmas season. Bells are hung from the ceiling with care, and twinkling illuminated snowflakes decorate the brick walls outside. Since Toronto is such a multicultural city, the market is filled with seasonal treats from all over the world! It’s a fantastic place to try Christmas classics from Canada and beyond! Plus, beautiful seasonal gifts to bring home for your loved ones. The gingerbread men as always a hit with the kids!

Market Hours:

South Market is open Tuesdays – Fridays – 9am to 7pm, Saturdays – 7am to 5pm, Sundays – 10am to 5pm, and is closed on Mondays. The farmer’s market is held Saturdays from 5am to 3pm.

Kringlewood

As a Torontonian, I love to encourage more tourists to visit a local neighbourhood and simply wander the streets. This becomes even more interesting during the winter as you can admire the incredible Christmas displays certain neighbourhoods put on. It almost feels like a competition, with one house always trying to outdo another.

But with a city as large as Toronto, where do you go? I’ll tell you where Kringlewood. Better known as Inglewood Drive, this quiet, tree-lined street is located just south of St Clair Avenue East. But at Christmas time, the area transforms into ‘Kringlewood‘ by the massive inflatable Santas that decorate almost every house on the street.

It all started in 2013 when one resident put up her 14-foot inflatable Santa. People found the adorable guy a simple way to decorate for the holidays. Other houses on the street followed suit, putting up their matching Santa. Before they knew it, almost everyone on the street had one, and it was a sea of Santa. Eventually, the craze caught the eye of people from outside the neighbourhood. Visitors began coming in from all over the city to see what the fuss was about. Today it is almost a Christmastime landmark in Toronto. 

One-of-a-Kind Winter Show

The One-of-a-Kind Show is an event in Toronto that occurs throughout the year that is a big hit with locals, and tourists often miss out on it! This giant craft and artisan show happen inside the Enercare Centre, within Exhibition Place. Every year at Christmas time, over 600 artists from across the country gather to sell their handmade goods.

This is often my favourite spot to shop for Christmas presents and unique seasonal decor you won’t find anywhere else! It’s amazing how long you can spend wandering around the vendors here. Just admiring all the incredible things people can create! Sometimes it feels like going to an art gallery, but here, you can actually afford most of the art you see on the walls! 

Hours & Admission

November 24 – December 4 | Weekdays & Saturdays: 10am to 9pm | Sunday: 10am to 6pm | Late Night Hours: December 1, 10 AM-11 PM

Tickets: $23 Adults | $17 Seniors | $17 Youth 5-17

Nathan Phillips Skating Rink

Nathan Phillips Square is one of the most iconic sights in Toronto. It stands in front of our rather obtrusive-looking City Hall. But thankfully, the Skating Rink out front is always so beautifully decorated for Christmas that it makes up for that brutalist architecture. The square also features the famous “Toronto” illuminated sign that everyone needs to get their picture in front of to say they actually were here! A giant Christmas tree is erected every year outside the City Hall, making the square a lively and charming place to visit during the holidays.

During the wintertime, the skating is open to the public. There is a skate rental on the premises, so you don’t need to have your own skates to slide around the rink! Even if you’ve never skated before, the atmosphere here is so friendly, and you can go at your own pace. They even play Christmas music throughout the day, so you can really get into the Christmas spirit while on the ice!

Hours & Prices

November 27th – March 20th, 10am – 9:45pm Everyday
Rates: Children 12 and under: $10.00 | Adults: $15.00 | Helmets: $5.00 | Hats and Mitts: $5.00
Prices are based on a 2-hour rental.

Hudson’s Bay Windows

Founded in 1670, Hudson’s Bay is a Canadian shopping staple. And every year, when they unveil their holiday window displays, people always flock to see them. It’s a tradition for many to bundle up and head over to Yonge & Queen to walk around “the Bay” to see their Storybook-inspired Christmas displays. Many Torontonia makes this a Christmas tradition, bringing the family down to admire the incredible artistry. So much so that they have red velvet ropes outside the windows to better allow people to line up and see them like a museum exhibition. If you’re in the area, this is definitely a must-see piece of Toronto!

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Black Creek Pioneer Village Christmas

As a young kid, Black Creek Pioneer Village was somewhere we were dragged to on field trips. And I don’t think I ever really appreciated how cool it was. But as an adult who loves history, I love a walk back in time through this charming open-air heritage museum. At Christmas, the entire park is transformed. A sea of Christmas lights blankets the old farm. Warm, roaring fireplaces make for a cozy escape from the cold. And old-fashioned oil lamps are hung in the holly and ivy-covered windows along the dirt pathways.

Their ‘Festive Nights’ allow visitors to explore the park in the evening and enjoy live entertainment and delicious holiday treats. Discover a variety of traditional holiday tales, take part in an enchanting Yuletide Ball, or create old-fashioned handmade ornaments to take home and deck your halls. Try your hand at Victorian parlour games while sipping on a piping hot chocolate. You can even make your own old-fashioned cane to dip inside! If you long to see how the Victorians spent their holiday season in Canada, this is the place to go back and time and discover it for yourself!

Dates & Admission

December 3, 10, and 17, 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
General Public $31.45 + HST per adult | $26.79 + HST per child (ages 3 to 14)

Swedish Christmas Fair

The Swedish Christmas Fair was always one of my favourite events in Toronto, and I was so sad when it was closed in 2020 and 2021. But I rejoiced when I heard it would be back in 2022! The Swedish Christmas Market is hosted by SWEA Toronto and features Swedish designs, products and folk art that will add some flair to your holiday decor. I fondly remember my trip to Stockholm at Christmas, which is one way I can feel like I’m back there while never leaving my hometown.

Be sure to stop by the cafe to get a hot plate of meatballs and lingonberry jam. There are also many events throughout the day, like a St. Lucia procession, Swedish Folk Dancers and Swedish Christmas Singers. A great place to learn more about Swedish Christmas traditions. But my favourite part? The traditional Glögg (Swedish mulled wine) is the perfect drink to make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside. 

Dates & Admission Information

November 19 – 20, 2022, from 11 am – 4 pm | FREE Admission.

Campbell House Museum Immersive ‘Christmas Carol’

Right off busy University Street is an old mansion hidden behind tall black iron gates. This is the Campbell House Museum, the oldest remaining house from the original Town of York, now what we call Toronto. The house was built in 1822 in high Georgian style for Chief Justice William Campbell and his wife, Hannah. The preserved interiors and furnishings remained a historical example of life in the early days of Toronto in the 19th century. During the Christmas season, the Three Ships Collective’s theatre company enters the house to perform their immersive production of ‘A Christmas Carol.‘

The show is set inside the Campbell House Museum and brings the audience into the world of Victorian England. The Campbell house was built around the same time Dickens wrote ‘A Christmas Carol,’ so it becomes the perfect backdrop for the show. The audience literally follows the crotchety Ebenezer Scrooge on his journey of redemption. The show features magic, music and even the macabre! If you think you know this story, this immersive production will transform how you see it. The shows sell out immediately, so be sure to buy your tickets as soon as they go on sale!

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Kensington Market Lights Festival

Kensington Market is one of the most popular trendy destinations for tourists to discover. This little bohemian neighbourhood is home to eclectic shops, vintage boutiques, delicious bakeries and food stalls! It is a hipster mainstay of the city, but at Christmas time, it is also home to the Kensington Market Lights Festival. The Kensington Market Lights Festival is one of Toronto’s most unique winter festivals. 

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The Kensington Market Lights Festival started in December 1988. The event was inspired by the old traditions of the fiery winter solstice. The night’s event includes an evening of festive celebrations. It all starts with a torchlight procession with a cavalcade of costumed characters. Everything from giant puppets to stiltwalkers and firebreathers. The street closes to vehicle traffic starting at 6 PM when the event begins. The festivities continue across the neighbourhood until late into the evening. There is live music, DJs, and a wide variety of food and drink (my favourite part of a visit to Kensington market!)

Miracle Bar Toronto

Popping up just for Christmas, Miracle Bar is one of Toronto’s most kitschy yet magnetic cocktail bars. The company pops up in various Canadian cities, like Montreal, where they take over a local venue and transform it into a Christmas Wonderland! There is no doubt that this place is Christmas kitschy to the extreme. But if you love the holiday as much as me, you’ll find the kitschiness absolutely charming, and walking inside makes one beam with holiday energy! 

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But it’s not just the festive decor; the drinks menu goes all out to make you feel like you’re at the North Pole! There is something for everyone from the Christmapolitan to the Snowball Ol-Fashioned and the Holiday Spiced Chai. And each drink is served in an adorable seasonal Christmas mug or cup. You can even buy the cup as a souvenir to remember a fun night with friends! In addition, to being one of the merriest places in the city, the organization donates $1 of every drink sold to Nellie’s Shelter. Nellie’s is an organization providing shelter, education and advocacy for women and children in the GTA. 

Open November 18th to December 31st

Leslieville Christmas Pop-up Market

Most people who visit Toronto rarely experience the east end of the city. The downtown core definitely hogs all the attention. But in my opinion (and I suppose I’m biased since I live here), this is a sorely overlooked part of town. The east end is full of charming architecture, a laid-back atmosphere and fantastic shopping and restaurants. But to find all that east-end energy in one place, you should head to the Leslieville Christmas Pop-up Market. The market is held every weekend in December. It features 30-40 local artisans and east-end businesses selling all the best Christmas goodies and handmade items perfect for your Christmas gift list. In addition to the shopping, there is also a hot chocolate bar, a chance to meet Santa, ornament-making workshops and a children’s craft corner! Something for everyone

Location & Dates

The location has yet to be announced, check website for updates!
Dates: FREE ENTRY Dec 3-4 | Dec 10-11 | Dec 17-18

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Nutcracker Ballet

Another tradition for many families at Christmastime is to go down to Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts to see a production of ‘The Nutcracker.’ Marius Petipa‘s beloved classic Christmas story is brought to life on stage by some of the country’s best ballet dancers. It has been playing every year in Toronto since 1995, so for many kids, Christmas isn’t Christmas with going to the Nutcracker with grandma.

It is a joyfully imaginative show about a beautiful nutcracker doll who comes to life by magic on Christmas eve. The magical Nutcracker takes siblings Marie and Misha on a journey into the icy realm of the Snow Queen. And to the fantastic golden palace of the Sugar Plum Fairy! Meeting all sorts of different Christmas characters along the way. Especially if you’re travelling with children, this is a great way to spend a festive evening.

Dates & Tickets

Dates: December 10th – 31st
Ticket Prices range from $55 to $250

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I hope you enjoyed this tour of Toronto’s best Festive Christmas events, activities and sights! I love exploring the city during the holiday season, and there seems to always be something new to discover in addition to the seasonal classics. Tell me in the comments what traditional Christmas events you love to explore every year in your hometown! Or your favourite parts of Toronto during the holidays.

Happy Travels, Adventurers!

The post 14 Amazing Festive Events You Can’t Miss in Toronto this Christmas first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

When you’re travelling alone, you experience things much more simply and without the influence of the groups excitement. I’m happy to report, that even as a solo adult traveller Heritage Park is still one of the best activities to enjoy when visiting Calgary.

Whether you’re an adult, a kid or a kid at heart, diving into the past inside Heritage Park is what everyone needs in this fast-paced, technology-driven world. Heritage Park offers visitors the opportunity to see a glimpse of how Calgarians used to live in the early 1900s. It is home to Canada’s second-largest collection of heritage buildings. You can step inside more than 100 historic homes and structures from Alberta’s past. As someone who is inherently curious I adore this kind of exploration.

Here are some suggestions on how to spend the perfect day at Heritage Park Calgary!

Table Of Contents

1. Hours & Admission
2. Access & Accessibility
3. When To Go
4. Map of Walking Tour
5. The Famous 5
6. Midnapore Station
7. Laggan Station
8. First Nations Encampment
9. Livingston House & Barn
10. Drew's Saloon
11. Gleichen School
12. Hudson's Bay Company Fur Trading Fort
13. Burnside Ranch House
14. Main Street
15. Cottage Hospital
16. Thorpe House
17. The Strathmore Standard
18. Post Office & Telephone Exchange
19. Alberta Bakery
20. Wainwright Hotel
21. Club Café
22. Flett's Blacksmith Shop
23. Wing Chong Chinese Laundry
24. S.S. Moyie Historical Paddlewheeler
25. Botsford Harness Shop
26. Claresholm General Store
27. Gledhill's Drugstore
28. Vulcan Ice Cream Parlour
29. Midway
30. Prince House
31. The Montefiore Synagogue
32. Gasoline Alley

Hours & Admission

Heritage Park is open 365 days a year. But the most important area of the park (the historical village) is only open from late May to mid-October. So I would only consider going during this time or during their Christmas Celebrations. The park is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm.

Pricing: Adults: $29.95 | Children (7-15): $19.95 | Children (3-6): $14.95 | Seniors: $22.95

Included in your admission is entry to the various historical homes, street theatre performances, daily activities, and special exhibits. Also included in your admission is access to unlimited rides! Although there aren’t many rides, it’s incredible that they still offer this included in your entry, as many other places like this often charge extra. Rides include S.S. Moyie paddlewheel ship, antique steam train, horse-drawn wagon rides and antique midway rides.

Access & Accessibility

By Car

Heritage Park is located a 20-minutes drive from the city in the Southern Eagle Ridge neighbourhood. If you choose to drive, there is a large parking lot outside the park. Parking is $8.00 for the first 7 hours and $8.00 per ½ hr after that to a maximum of $32.00.

Bike Path

Heritage Park is also very accessible by bike! Calgary is known for its fantastic bike trails. You can make your way to the park on your bicycle via the Elbow River Pathway.

Public Transit

If you are looking to arrive via public transit, there are several options depending on your starting destination. If you’re leaving from the central downtown area, you can hop on the #3 Bus to Elbow River Station and transfer onto the #502 Bus west. This takes you directly to the doors of Heritage Park. A single ride on the Calgary Public Transit system costs $3.50 for adults and #2.40 for children.

Accessibility

Although the park is dedicated to authenticity, this results in many of the buildings being inaccessible to wheelchairs. In addition to this, the pathways are mostly gravel, which is difficult to traverse in many mobility devices. And the boardwalks that surround the main street have no ramp access.

Gasoline Alley Museum and Heritage Town Square are the only areas fully accessible by wheelchairs. Some of the exhibit sites have been made accessible by wheelchair. Those spots are identified by a wheelchair symbol on the map. But like I said before, the gravelly road makes it hard for the wheelchair to even make it out there. I understand the dedication to historical accuracy, but I feel like there need to be some considerations made to ensure everyone is included in the experience.

When To Go

As the exhibits are both indoors and outdoors, it’s best to arrive on a day with good weather. Many park elements won’t be as enjoyable if it’s raining. Heritage Park often offers special daily events like music in the park, market nights, and different festivals. So check their events calendar before planning your trip. These special events can really make your trip extra special.

How Long To Spend?

I was amazing at how many things there were to do here! I’d advise arriving early to give yourself at least four to five hours to explore the park. You’ll want to go inside the preserved building, eat some delicious food and enjoy the views around the park on one of their historic pieces of transportation.

How to Interact with the Actors

Inside all of the open buildings, you’ll find real-life historical reenactors. They are there to set the scene and tell you all about the building’s history. While they have their standard spiel about the location, these people are VERY knowledgeable historians. Feel free to ask the questions, be curious! They loved when I asked them weird or exciting questions and were excited to answer them. If I asked a tricky question, they would run around to other people to get a consensus on a good answer. Some of the actors working in the park have been there for ages, and were well into the 60s and 70s. So don’t hesitate to chat with them; their stories are worth the price of admission in itself!

Land Acknowledgement

Before stepping into the park, it’s essential to recognize that Heritage Park is located in the traditional territories of Treaty 7 peoples. This includes the Blackfoot people (the Nii-tsi-ta-pi) composed of the Kainai, Piikani and the Siksika Nations; the Tsuut’ina Nation; and the Iyarhe (Stoney) Nakoda, including the Bearspaw, Chiniki and Wesley First Nations; and is situated within the Métis homeland and the home of the Métis Nation of Alberta Region 3.

I didn’t see any Land Acknowledgement signage in the park but found this online. I wanted to make sure to include this here. Perhaps I missed it, but I still think this kind of acknowledgement is important, especially given the type of history the park delves into.

Map of Walking Tour

For our self-guided tour, we will walk through the park in chronological order. This way history moves along with you!

The Famous 5

Walking into the park, you make your way up a slight hill with the various dates of the park’s historical buildings embedded into the concrete. The first large building you’ll pass is the Famous 5 Centre of Canadian Women. The famous five were a group of Albertian women who dedicated their lives to empowering the voices of Canadian women. They were Nellie McClung, Emily Murphy, Irene Parlby, Louise McKinney and Henrietta Muir Edwards.

In 1928, the Supreme Court of Canada ruled that women were not “persons” according to the British North America Act. This meant that women were, therefore, ineligible for appointment to the Senate. When this was announced, these women weren’t going to just sit there and accept that. They submitted the “persons case” to the highest court in the British empire, and in 1929 the judgement was reversed. This ruling meant that women could no longer be denied rights based on a narrow interpretation of the law.

The house itself can find storytellers and interpreters who tell the story of these women’s activism. The home itself is a replica of Nellie McClung’s former Calgary home, from 1923 to 1932. One of the things I noticed on my tour was the focus the park held on the impact and importance of women. Unlike many historical records written by men that underplay the role of influential women, this park really highlighted the work and impact of women in Canadian history.

Midnapore Station

Just up from the Famous Five House are the train tracks and where you’ll find the old Midnapore Station. The station was built between 1900 and 1940 as a part of the Canadian Pacific Railway.

When building these railway stations in the Prairies, they used pre-designed templates to apply to different locations. Their location and purpose directed what amenities were required. Midnapore Station represents the “combination” station design. This station included a house, a freight storage room, a waiting area and an office all under the same roof.

The antique Morrissey, Fernie & Michel steam train runs around the park throughout the day. Trains can be boarded from three stations; Midnapore Station, Laggan and Shepard Station. Most people seem to get on the train at Midnapore Station first thing upon arrival. But I would actually advise skipping this for the time being. Instead, take the train when you return back to the main gates at the end of the day. It’s nice to see some of the buildings you’ve now explored from far away and get a different vantage point on the layout of the park.

The train runs very slowly, so riding it around the entire loop takes precious minutes out of your day. I would advise getting on at Shepard Station and riding towards Midnapore Station. This part of the journey is the most scenic and gives you a taste of a 19th-century train ride.

Laggan Station

From Midnapore Station we are going to walk along Heritage Park road (Livingston Trail) towards Laggan Station. This area of the park is called “The Settlement” and represents the years from 1860 to 1880. This train station is an example of designs built for the Canadian Rockies during the 19th century. Unlike Midnapore Station, which was meant for local travel, this was one of the first “tourist stations” built to service Lake Louise. These stations were luxurious and featured restaurants complete with silver dinner service.

First Nations Encampment

Crossing the train track, we head to the north-east part of the park to find the First Nations Encampment. As you cross the bridge into the Emcampment you can immediately see the white and yellow buffalo skins that form traditional Tipis. Surrouding the tipis are some indigenous women who can answer your questions and speak directly yo your about their rich culture. Tipis were the traditional dwelling of Alberta’s First Nations. The First Nations people of Alberta moved their camps seasonally in response to the buffalo herds, so it was important they could be easily taken up and down. Women were in charge of the tipis as they were the ones who set them up and took them down. Only two women were able to set up these huge dwellings in just under an hour!

Life in the Encampment

If you had a horse, your Tipi could be slightly larger, measuring 15 feet in diameter. But for those who carried it on their backs, theirs would measure 6 ft. These Tipis were decorated with illustrations. The images symbolic of their family history, myths, or even the family’s crest. The door of the Tipi always faces east. This is to allow the families morning prayers to travel towards thee rising sun. The east facing direction also helps keep the strong western winds out of dwelling.

Livingston House & Barn

Just north of the Encampment is the Livingston House and Barn. Sam Livingston was a farmer who built this house in 1878. He was contracted to supply fresh meat to the northwest Mounted Police at Fort Calgary. Livingston was one of the first individuals to settle in Calgary. He travelled extensively around Calgary before finally claiming his permanent homestead in the beautiful Elbow River Valley.

Livingston built his two-storey log house to accommodate his growing family. He would later go onto build a barn which served as a granary, bunkhouse, and garage. When Livingston died, his land was eventually bought by the City of Calgary. But it wouldn’t be until 1946 that the park began to take shape, and his formed homestead was restored in 1968. I love the furnishings in his house, full of furns and heavy fabrics. This, along with the fireplace in the centre of the room, really gives the impression of how cold winters would have been in the Praries.

I. G. Baker & Co.

Behind the Livingston house, is the small street that represents rural main streets of the 1880s. Here you’ll find the Drew’s Saloon, the Stopping House and the I. G. Baker & Co. I. G. Baker Company was a mercantile and grocery company based in Fort Benton, Montana. It was started by Isaac Gilbert Baker and his brother, George Amos Baker, in 1866. The company set up their first store in Calgary, Alberta, in 1875. Its aim was to help the exhausted and goods-deprived northwest Mounted Police who arrived here from Winnipeg. In 1891, the Canadian assets of the company were purchased by its chief rival, Hudson’s Bay Company. This building is a replica of the original store. Today you can step inside and shop for stick candy, jams and other small wooden toys.

Drew’s Saloon

In 1886, ex-U.S. army officer Henry “Boston” Drew built this saloon in Spitzer Crossing, Alberta. Drew found that many visitors on their way to Calgary or Fort Macleod needed a place to stay along the way. So Drew went about building a second storey above his residence. There he installed four bedrooms which served as the “Stopping House” for travellers. Today, Drew’s Saloon is a lovely spot to stop to grab some snacks or even a glass of beer or cider.

Mounted Police Barracks

The log cabin next door to Drew’s Saloon was home to the Mounted Police. This outpost served as the Barracks for the NWMP. The original structure was located 145 km east of Calgary and was built in 1905. Back then, it was indeed the Wild West out here. Heavily armed outlaws raided ranches in Alberta. Their aim was to steal herds of cattle and bring them across to Montana. The Mounted Police were stationed around the province to help patrol and prevent this thievery. In just ten years, the patrols were dismantled. But not because they were ineffective. The police patrols were so effective that the cross-border thievery stopped entirely. And they effectively put themselves out of a job.

Gleichen School

At the end of the boardwalk, you’ll come to the old Gleichen School. This is a great chance to see how life was like for the school children of these early settlements. This school was built in 1888 from logs that were floated down the Bow River. Just as today, the school had little funding and the meagre supplies. Teachers were underpaid (again, little has really changed). And yet, their humble one-room schoolhouse was responsible for the education of all ages of school children in the area.

Hudson’s Bay Company Fur Trading Fort

Up the hill to the west, you can make out the huge wooden walls of the Hudson’s Bay Company Fur Trading Fort. The fort’s layout was designed as a 1965 replica of an 1835 fur trading fort built in Rocky Mountain House, Alberta.

The Hudson’s Bay Company was a North American fur trading company with posts as far as Alaska, Oregon and Labrador. Inside these forts, about 30 labourers, clerks and traders would live and work together.

Hunters would bring their latest catch into the clerk to sell, and buyers would come soon after to pick up the latest furs. My favourite part was walking around the original store to see the prices of all the different items. It was incredible to see the fantastic range of things available to these early settlers.

Be sure to stop by the campfire outside the fort to hear stories from one of the traders!

Our Lady of Peace Mission

Outside the Fort is the small wooden church called the Our Lady of Peace Mission. Although most information printed about the church names the missionaries as “teachers, preachers, healers, translators and peacemakers,” we know their mission held a more upsetting truth. The information we now have regarding mistreatment and murder of indigenous children at the hands of church is something every visitor should sit with. It is difficult to see this church overlooking the peaceful First Nations Encampement nearby and not feel an immense swell of sadness. I truly hope Heritage Park aims to focus more on the injustices done by the church toward the indigenous people of Canada, as this is an important part of our history not to be forgotten.

Burnside Ranch House

Walking west along the railway, you can see farm yard animals in the ranch poking their heads out of their cages. Walking up to the ranch house, you can check out the chicken coops, horse barn and see some of the antique farming equipment. Amazing to imagine the amount of work they got done with this rustic equipement.

Ranch House

The large yellow house with wrap-around verandah was once owned by the MacKay family. It was built in 1904 in Grand Valley, eight kilometres northwest of Cochrane, Alberta. The MacKay family is the very same family that started the famous MacKay Ice Cream Shop in Cochrane.

After the completion of the Canadian Pacific Railway in 1885, life was easier for settlers to make permanent moves into the prairies. More and more people were buying up land and developing it into these types of farms. Immigrants from many parts of the country and other countries were flocking to the prairies. Vast and inexpensive lands could be just the opportunity people wanting to start a new life were looking for.

The interior of the house is a charming peek inside a frozen moment of country life. Inside the kitchen, women are set on making baked goods using only ingredients, kitchen utensils and appliances from the 1900s. The smell of baking breads wafting throughout the entire house smells enchanting.

Main Street

Take a walk along the Ranch Road, past the old Horse barns, towards Cochrane Fire Hall. The road emerges onto Main Street. This area of town is set in the 1910s and is the most vibrant part of the park. Townspeople in historic garb walk up and down the street. Gossiping about the latest news in town and starting up a conversation with the guests. This is such an amazing opportunity to chat with the actors and learn more about the daily events. When I visited, there was an election happening! Various townspeople had signs in their windows advertising their choice elector. And people in the street were discussing with the guests who they were going to vote for.

There was also a new circus in town. Various actors were running about main street, performing different scenes from that story. It was so funny and really brought the town to life! These live theatrical scenes makes the historic village more than a museum, but a living piece of history.

Cottage Hospital

Before heading right into the central part of Main street, veer to the left to check out the charming Cottage Hospital. The white house with green time is decorated in amazing gingerbread trim traditional of the 1900s. The main purpose of the Cottage Hospital was to treat men injured in their work on the railway. These cottage hospitals were small, temporary and poor. They were run primarily by female nurses, and only every so often would a doctor come into town. Doctors didn’t work for free and often had no interest in lending their skills to the poor. This was unlike the nurses, who were often nuns and willingly gave their service to care for the poor.

Unlike today, this hospital didn’t have proper antiseptics or sanitary measures. Surgery was often conducted on the dining room table. That being said, many of their techniques were the beginning of modern medical history. These were the early days of discovery and the development. These women were leading the way to curing illnesses we are now able to treat easily today.

Thorpe House

The Thorpe House was my favourite home in the entire park. Walking inside I was overwhelmed by the incredible wallpaper that covered the entirety of the walls around the house. The Thorpes were a Norwegian immigrant family who moved to Calgary to work at the Eau Claire & Bow River Lumber mill. Bernt Thorpe was a skilled millwright and was in charge of building and maintaining the mill’s expensive machinery. As such he would have been paid a hefty salary to build this incredible folk Victorian house.

The house was eventually owned by Mrs. Lillian Jacques, Thorpe’s youngest daughter, who later donated the house to Heritage Park in 1969.

The Strathmore Standard

As a trained graphic designer, I’m a sucker for the newspaper office. Step inside the Strathmore and Bow Valley Standard Offices to see how newspapers in small prairie towns worked. Inside, you can watch the typesetter at work creating the newspaper pages and printing them on the giant, seven-ton Wharfedale press.

The press had been imported from Edinburgh, Scotland and built in 1870. One single page of the paper would take the typesetter about 8-hours to hand lay each letter. Often the typesetter was also the publisher, editor, and reporter and marketing director. In a small town, you had to do it all!

Barons Snooker Parlour

To stop it for a little game of pool, walk inside Barons Snooker Parlour. No, the Snooker Hall wasn’t owned by a Baron; it was named after the town in which the Snooker hall was originally built, Barons Alberta. A village in southern Alberta, Canada. Snooker Parlours originally only allowed men to play inside and were placed of bad repute. Drinking aplenty was the name of the game, and during the temperance movement, these establishments were greatly frowned upon. Nevertheless, their popularity only continued.

Along with the snooker table they also houses pool tables, bowling lanes, and even a bathroom where you could rent a bath for 75 cents! After a huge drinking bender one can imagine how bad you’d smell and a bath was definitely in order!

Post Office & Telephone Exchange

Head across the street and hop inside the Post Office & Telephone Exchange. Back in the 19th century, there was no email, Tiktok or texting. The only way you could correspond with your loved ones was via the mail. Therefore, just like social media is the most popular pasttime for people today, the post office was the hottest place to be back then! People would rush daily to see if there was any news from back home. 

The first post office in Calgary was established in 1883! Before then the Mounted Police were postmasters for the area, dropping off mail on horseback throughout Western Canada. Often post offices also featured electronic telephone switchboards and the one inside the Post Office still works today and actually is used to connect to 16 other phones spread throughout the park.

Today you can visit the Post office and still send off a postcard with a unique Heritage Park stamp to send home to your friends and family. This is such a cute and unexpected treat for someone to receive as snail mail truly feels like a thing of the past and yet feels so special to receive.

Alberta Bakery

If you’re getting peckish, be sure to stop into the old Alberta Bakery. You can smell this place all the way down the road. The Bakery was originally built in 1912. Back then, going out for your baked goods was something no good housewife would ever be caught dead doing. They did their baking at home and took pride in their homemade bread. But the bachelors who worked on the railroad or with the North-West Mounted Police didn’t know how to bake and would frequent bakeries like this.

In addition to snacks and sweets like Cinnamon Buns, Butter Tarts, Gingerbread people and Sausage rolls, you can also get entire loaves of bread to bring home. Their sourdough is to die for!

Wainwright Hotel

In any small town, where you see the same people day in and day out, the hotel is the most exciting place to be! It’s here where locals get to greet the newcomers and talk their ear off about the goings on outside of their village. Everyone from new farmers, visiting doctors or even a theatre troupe would come to stay. And the same is true of the Wainwright Hotel, here in Heritage Park. It’s here where heritage actors are constantly abuzz, chatting with the visitors on their way to get something to eat. They wander around the gorgeous grand veranda that wraps around the exterior of the 1909 era hotel. Something about these verandas feels like the wild west and you almost sense like there is a old style gun fight about to break out!

The Wainwright Hotel is where you can have a formal dinner inside the elaborately decorated 20th century dining room. Unlike the more rustic rural adornments, the Wainwright Hotel features more modern, elegant décor. If you prefer something a little bit more relaxed and just need to rest your legs you can stop into the authentic saloon where you can grab a drink at the bar and enjoy some piano music.

Club Café

Quick detour down Railway Street. The various establishments on Railway Street represent a vital community invaluable to the growth of the Prairies. And that was the Asian community. Chinese immigrants, mainly men, arrived in Canada around the 1880s to work on the Canadian Pacific Railway. There were over 17,000 recorded men who came from China to work on the railway. Sadly, over 700 of these men were killed, primarily due to the extremely unsafe working conditions.

Once work was done, they were stranded in Canada with much less money earned than they had promised. They were often paid less than half of what their white coworkers earned. This meant most of them could not afford to return home, sending what they did make back home to support their families. But never wanting to give up, the remaining Chinese immigrant began to open businesses. Many of these were laundries, groceries and restaurants.

The Club Café is an eatery in the park where you can still grab a delicious snack lunch today! The building is based on pictures of the historic Won’s Public Lunch. This Chinese Café was initially located in Olds, Alberta and was built in 1918. These Chinese Cafés were a staple of small prairie towns in the Edwardian era. Although dubbed “Chinese Cafes,” the food served here wasn’t what we think of as Chinese food. Instead, it was an extensive western menu with very low prices. You could get a cup of coffee for five cents!

Flett’s Blacksmith Shop

Across the street is everyone’s favourite, Flett’s Blacksmith Shop. With, of course, the working blacksmith putting on a show for the visitors. In the 1900s, the blacksmiths were one of the most influential people in town. Not only did blacksmiths service the horses and oxen used for transportation and agriculture, but they also serviced farming equipment that was the backbone of the agriculture industry in the Prairies. The blacksmith was once owned this shop was Tom Flett, who built it in Airdrie in 1902.

Wing Chong Chinese Laundry

As mentioned before, many Chinese immigrants opened up Laundries during this period in history. Domestic work was one of their only options regardless of their many talents. The laundry we can visit today is designed after June Jay Tse’s laundry. June Jay Tse moved to Canada to work on the railway, and after that contract ended, he worked delivering laundry. He worked hard and eventually was able to purchase this building and open his very own laundry shop.

Walking inside, you can see how a typical laundry would have looked in 1914, complete with the price list! If you turn down the hallway, you can peek into the back rooms. The first represents the Chinese kitchen, and the back room is set up as the living room of a moderately successful Chinese family.

S.S. Moyie Historical Paddlewheeler

Let’s quickly head back to Main Street and walk to the water to catch a ride on the S.S. Moyie Historical Paddlewheeler. In the early days of the Province, many parts of Alberta were inaccessible on land. The many large rivers and lakes were the only way to get to these remote places. These were traversed by steamships, just the one we can still ride on today! Because many of the streams and rivers had such low water levels, large tall ships would never have been able to get through. But a paddlewheel boat can function in just a few inches of water! The S.S. Moyie was built in 1898 and used to take supplies and people to mines and railway construction sites all over the Province.

Today the Paddlewheeler is used to take guests on a short ride around the Elbow River. From this vantage point, you look back up at the park giving you a different view of the entirety of the village.

As you continue you’ll also enjoy some breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains and downtown Calgary from the waters of the Glenmore Reservoir.

Front Street

Head back up the stairs and make your way to Front Street. Front Street is where we find the antique outdoor Shopping mall. The row of shops here contains an old harness shop, general store, candy and druggery.

Botsford Harness Shop

The old Botsford Harness Shop was one of the first kinds of the store that would pop up on the main streets in new prairie settlements. These shops worked with leather creating horse harnesses to connect a horse to wagons, carts, and farm machinery so they could pull them. It would be one of the most critical farming equipment on the farm. The shop would also sell saddles, shoes and boots, all made with the same leather. Today you can shop here for unique gift items, figurines, jewellery, hats, dolls, cast-iron creations, wooden toys and more.

Claresholm General Store

The Claresholm General Store was opened by another family of Norwegian immigrants in 1905. These stores were another popular hangout, especially when the delivery cart arrived with the newest imports from around the country. Back then, many store owners still used the barter system, trading items in stock for anything the farmers had to trade that they could also go on to sell in-store. Most of what they sold was dry goods and rare and precious – candy! Just as much a treat as it is today. You can still shop inside for vintage-inspired candy, which gives you a hit of sugar and that nostalgic hit of dopamine.

Gledhill’s Drugstore

My favourite store in any old heritage museum is the druggery. I’m obsessed with antique pharmacies and learning more about how medicine worked ages ago. Gledhill’s Drugstore was initially built in 1908 in Dundurn, Saskatchewan. These drug stores were a rich environment. The embossed tin ceiling, bevelled glass mirrors, and stunning maple flooring were materials not likely to be found in the Prairies. Walking into this place would have felt almost royal to local farmers! This wealthy, opulent interior communicated to the customer the pharmacist was clearly successful and therefore knew what they were doing…although this wasn’t always the truth! There were quack doctors and pharmacists aplenty back then who made their mint selling elixirs that never worked.

Pharmacists were responsible for much more than just medical advice and dispensing medicine. They were also veterinarians that helped farmers with their sick animals. They marketed, created and sold poultices used as sunscreens, bath products, bug sprays, soaps and lotions. Today the store can still be toured, and many of the original products are hidden behind the glass.

Vulcan Ice Cream Parlour

A clear favourite on hot summer days is the Vulcan Ice Cream Parlour. In the 1930s, General Store often was renovated to feature soda fountains and served fresh ice cream. The sweet treat caught on with teenagers who couldn’t yet go out to the bar. Instead would hang out at the ice cream parlour late into the night. Often drug stores or general stores already featured carbon dioxide tanks that were used in developing medicines so converting these to make sugary drinks was an easy shift.

The Vulcan Ice Cream Parlour was originally the Elves Bros. General Store built in 1910 by Fred and Reuben “Rube” Elves. It was located in the small town of Vulcan, which rose to popularity near the Canadian Pacific Railway construction site. The interior was designed to replicate the looks of the old Olivier’s Bakery and Confectionery Shop in Calgary, circa 1910.

Midway

The part of the park I most enjoyed as a child was by the Midway. And although the ride is primarily meant for children, I made a point to still get on ‘The Whip’ to see if it lived up to the hype I remember. To be honest, it really did. But I think that might have been the nostalgia talking. But I’m not the only one who gets nostalgic about the rides. Even in the western Prairies, the Canadian Victorians felt that entertainment was essential to life.

The Whip

The Whip dates back to 1914 and was one of the world’s first thrill-based rides! It first debuted in Luna Park in Coney Island, New York and quickly began to be manufactured for fairgrounds worldwide. The Whip at Heritage Park actually dates back to 1921!!! Things really were made to last back then. But this is the only functioning portable Whip still known to exist. Be sure to study the floral decorations on the front of the cars. These were inspired by photographs taken of the Whip at the Johnny J. Jones Carnival in Edmonton.

Bowness Carousel

Another classic carnival ride that everyone can enjoy is the Bowness Carousel. This adorable, closed-top carousel dates back to 1904 and has been lovingly restored. My favourite part of the ride has always been the paintings of the Victorian women in the centre of the carousel. The carousel was originally built in 1904 and made in Louisville, Kentucky. Unlike other carousels that go up and down, with horses placed on long poles connected to the ceiling, this carousel is a more open concept. And the horses bob back and forth rather than up and down.

Dangler Swings

The Dangle Swings are another gorgeous antique treasure still part of children’s memories at the park. The Swings were first invented by Fritz Kreis, a German manufacturer of amusement park rides, in 1920. When they debuted in Europe, they were the first of their kind and genuinely wow-ed everyone who saw them. Not just for the ingenuity of the ride but for the gorgeous painted frames around the central pole.

Prince House

As we make our way towards the gate where we entered, we walk down Prince Street. One of the largest buildings on the street is the grand Prince House. Peter Anthony Prince was a lumber and hydroelectricity magnate who, at the time, was one of the wealthiest men in the Prairies. He not only started the Calgary Water Power Company in 1890, but he also owned a flour mill, a meat-packing plant, grain elevators and a brewery. In 1894, Prince built this house for his family on the west end of town.

Of all the houses in the park, this one is by far the most opulent. Lush furnishings decorate the interior. Tiffany stained glass light fixtures hang from the ceiling against richly ornate window curtains.

Upstairs the bedrooms are an intimate peek into the simple things the Victoria Prince family enjoyed. A group of teddy bears sits around a table enjoying a cup of afternoon tea. Such sweet moments are frozen in time.

The Montefiore Synagogue

The last stop on our tour is inside the Montefiore Synagogue. This beautiful Synagogue was initially located in the Montefiore Colony near Sibbald, Alberta, in 1919. Many Jewish immigrants had fled to Alberta as early as the 1880s, feeling waves of antisemitism spreading across Europe. In Montefiore, a small Jewish community built their Synagogue. The building also served as a meeting hall and a school for the religious education of the colony’s Jewish children.

Despite the antisemitism that was seemingly infecting the rest of Europe, the small settlements in Alberta were welcoming to the new settlers. And Christian farmers were often known to help out at the Synagogue during their religious celebrations. When you lived in such a small community, everyone was in it together and helped wherever they could, regardless of religion.

In 1927 a severe drought caused most of the citizens of Montefiore to abandon the village, and the Synagogue was turned into a grain shed. It remained this way until 2008. It was eventually purchased by the Little Synagogue on the Prairie Project Society and brought to Heritage Park to be restored. During this restoration process, they discovered thousands of books, a precious Torah, a wooden Ark, and a bimah hidden away inside. These historical treasures were a priceless find and are still on display for you to see! Today the Synagogue serves as one of the few surviving examples of wooden synagogues built by pioneers on the Canadian prairie.

Gasoline Alley

Before leaving the park, if you still have some energy, you should take a peek inside the Gasoline Alley Museum. The Gasoline Alley Museum is an indoor exhibition that tells the story of the automobile. It features a rare collection of vintage vehicles, gasoline pumps, signage, and more.

Since Calgary was built upon the Natural Gas industry, it’s no surprise to see this automobile collection here. Along with, of course, some beautiful vintage gas pumps! The museum houses one of the world’s largest collections of rare vintage vehicles and artifacts relating to the auto industry.

Hopefully, you enjoyed this day out at Heritage Park. A walk back in time to be enjoyed by anyone of any age. Although it might be marketed as something to do with the kids, I was amazed by how great of a time I had just on my own. Exploring the amazing treasure and historical antiquities, I found here!

Let me know in the comments if you’re planning a trip to Calgary and what you want me to cover next.

Happy Travels, Adventurers!

The post How to Spend the Perfect Day in Heritage Park Calgary as an Adult! first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

Table Of Contents

1. Montreal Central Station
2. Dorchester Square
3. Lights on Peel
4. Saint-Catherine Street
5. Rendez-Vous Corner
6. Guardians of Odyssée
7. Legend of the Bears
8. McGill College Avenue
9. Centre Eaton de Montréal
10. Hotel Birks Montreal
11. Phillips Square
12. Place des Festivals
13. Luminotherapie
14. Place des Arts
15. Les Jardins d'Hiver
16. Parterre du Quartier des spectacles

Montreal Central Station

Start your tour inside Montreal Central Station. This is the most convenient access point to the downtown area from anywhere in Montreal. Nearly 11 million rail passengers use the station every year, making it the second-busiest train station in Canada. The station is decorated with huge pink stars and illuminated lights during the Christmas season. As we near Christmas day, they even set up a giant Christmas tree in the centre of the station. I arrived via Central station and there was nothing more magical to welcome me to the city! What a fantastical way to start your trip.

Dorchester Square

From Central Station, make your way north to Peel Street. Peel Street runs through Montreal’s most popular shopping district. The street is lined by former mansions converted into McGill University buildings. Making it one of the most picturesque streets but made even more spectacular at Christmas. On the edge of Peel Street and Boulevard René-Lévesque is Dorchester Square. As soon as the first snow falls on Montreal, this square is transformed into a Winter Wonderland. Sparkling Christmas lights don the trees around the park and the lamp posts are given sparkling and enchanting flare. 

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The park is set around some of the most romantic buildings in the city, all decorated for Christmas. The imposing Sun Life Building stands on the east side of the park. Its huge columns are encircled with Christmas lights and topped with one of the largest ornament garlands in the entire city. The roof of the Sun Life Building is also illuminated with different colours throughout the year. And at Christmas time is often seen illuminated with red and green colours.

Lights on Peel

Continue walking north along Peel street until you reach Peel and Sherbrooke Street. At this intersection, hand-crafted artifacts from the local Indigenous population of Montreal were discovered. Before there ever was a ‘Montreal,’ there was Tiohtià:ke. Tiohtià:ke is the name given to the area by the indigenous Kanien’kehá:ka clan who lived here for thousands of years. An illuminated installation called ‘Lights on Peel‘ can be found here during the wintertime. The lights aim to commemorate the story of Tiohtià:ke. The installation was designed by artist Kaiento:ton and portrays three of the Rotiononhsión:ni clan’s symbolic animals: the turtle, the wolf and the bear. You can also scan the QR codes found on the poles which display the lights to get more information on First Nations’ history.

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Saint-Catherine Street

Walk west along Sherbrooke Street and then north down Rue de la Montagne towards Saint-Catherine Street. Saint-Catherine Street is the main street in the Montreal business district. It is considered the backbone of Downtown Montreal. There are nine metro stations along Sainte-Catherine that prove just how large important this part of town is. There is also an enormous Underground Pedestrian Network that is essential during those brutally cold winter days.

But during the winter, Saint-Catherine Street is a hub of Christmas activity. All the lampposts are hung with huge blue snowflake lights that brighten up the street. Not only are all the high-end shop’s windows decorated for Christmas, but the street itself is also home to some incredible installations.

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Rendez-Vous Corner

Between Rue De la Montagne and Drummond is Rendez-Vous Corner. At the corner, you’ll find a huge lighted arch that is perfect for snapping those picturesque Christmas photos! Complete with bright pink Christmas trees in the background.

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Guardians of Odyssée

Just to the east along Saint-Catherine, between Drummond and Peel, you can find the great Guardians of Odyssée! The Guardians are huge inflatable nutcrackers who watch over Montrealers and visitors during the holiday season. Their smile is their greatest weapon, and legend has it that they can break the hardest of diamonds with a snap of their jaws.

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Legend of the Bears

At the Metcalf intersection, you will see the illuminated images of giants bears framing the street. This installation is called the ‘Legend of the Bears‘ and is based on an indigenous legend. It is said that if you see a bear in your dream, it means that good look is coming your way. So make a point of walking by to catch all the luck you can!

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McGill College Avenue

Further east, you can make a stop at the entrance to McGill College Avenue. The street was first laid out in 1857. But in 1983, it was greatly widened to create this now incredibly scenic roadway. The trees along either side of the avenue and the centre lane are wrapped in twinkle lights at Christmas time. Casting the most magical glow onto the road, leading up to the hillside of Mont-Royal, silhouetted just up ahead.

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Centre Eaton de Montréal

A great way to warm up is to stop inside the Centre Eaton de Montréal. This is one of Montreal’s largest shopping malls, with over 45,000 square metres of shops inside. At Christmas, the mall installs an enormous Christmas tree in the centre. It rises up above the three floors that surround it. The Christmas is hung with these huge digital frames displaying images of winter scenes all around Montreal.

Hotel Birks Montreal

At the corner of Saint-Catherine Street and Union, make a short detour towards the old Hotel Birks Montreal entrance. In 1840 Canadian entrepreneur, Henry Birks founded a jewelry company here in Montreal. He named it ‘Birks‘ and, in 1907, opened their magnificent flagship store in this very building. The shop spread out over 18,000 square feet and was complete with dazzling ornate architecture and modern conveniences. Eventually, the shop closed, but in 2018, the building was renovated to transform it into a high-end, historic hotel. Every year, the hotel goes all out for Christmas with lavish decorations pouring off the entrance into their hotel. This fantastical awning makes for an amazing photo spot underneath all that lush greenery and shining Christmas baubles.

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Phillips Square

Back on Saint-Catherine Street, you can find Phillips Square. Phillips Square was named for Thomas Phillips, a building contractor and city councillor. Phillips died in 1842 and the land he once owned was donated to the city to create a public square in his honour. In the centre of the square stands a large statue of Thomas Phillips himself. The trees around the statue are all lit up with Christmas lights. And when the park has a layer of freshly fallen snow upon it, it is truly a spectacular scene.

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Place des Festivals

A short walk east brings you to the Place des Festivals. Place des Festivals is a large public space created inside the Quartier des Spectacles. Quartier des Spectacles is Montreal’s arts and entertainment district. Montreal is home to over 100 different festivals and public events! As more and more people began to visit Montreal for these wonderful events, there became more need to build areas to host these outdoor events.

The Place des Festivals features a water fountain with 235 in-ground jets, four light towers, two glass-encased restaurants, a grassy slope and granite walkways. But during the winter, the square is transformed into a winter wonderland. Complete with Christmas trees lighting up the Great Montreal Christmas Market. 

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Luminotherapie

Also found inside the Quartier des Spectacles is Luminotherapie. Luminotherapie is now celebrating its 12th year, lighting up the Quartier des Spectacles during the winter season. This event features interactive art installations that are focused on illuminations. Places des Festivals is home to two amazing installations.

In the centre of the square, you’ll find ‘Echoes‘ by Mathias Gmachl. Echoes feature a giant metallic whale light with a rainbow of colours from inside. The colours inside the whale symbolize the planet’s flora and fauna. The whale makes gentle, melodic noises from afar. But if you get too close, it will make a loud noise to warn you that you are getting too close. A message about the invasive ways people are invading the natural world.

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Towards Maisonneuve Boulevard, you can find ‘Impluse,’ a series of oversized seesaws. Each one glows and makes ambiant sounds. You can hop on and the more they move, the more intensive the noises will get.

Place des Arts

Next door to the Place des Festivals is the Place des Arts. Place des Arts is a major performing arts centre and the largest cultural and artistic complex in Canada. The centre of the plaza plays home to the ‘Iceburg‘ installation. Iceberg consists of a series of illuminated metal arches. When you walk through you’ll notice that each of them makes a particular sound. Sounds mimic the noise icebergs make when they crack as water seeps into their crevasses. The sounds echoing around you.

Les Jardins d’Hiver

Also located inside the Places des Arts is ‘Les Jardins d’Hiver.’ This little treasure takes visitors on a magical walk through a Christmas garden trail. It leads guests through a maze of Christmas trees featuring cozy little cottages displaying enchanting dioramas.

Parterre du Quartier des spectacles

Parterre du Quartier des spectacles on the orner of Rue Saint-Urbain and Rue de Montigny features a wonderful installation called ‘Entre les Rangs‘ by Kanva. The huge scene represents a field of wheat. The illuminated installation is made up of thousands of flexible stems topped with these little white reflectors. Each one responds to the nearby activity, which creates constantly shifting animation as if the wheat is blowing in the wind from different directions. It is the most peaceful and mesmerizing installation and the perfect place to end our tour.

I hope you enjoyed this magical walking tour of Downtown Montreal’s most incredible Christmas lights. They truly light up the city and cast an enchanting glow over the snow-covered streets! If you enjoyed this tour, check out our guide of Montreal’s Old Town Christmas Lights. Let me know the comments where your favourite Christmas light display can be found in your hometown!

Happy Travels, Adventurers!

The post The Ultimate Tour of Downtown Montreal’s Best Christmas Light Displays first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

Although you can simply wander the city to discover your own favourite displays, I’ve put together a little walking tour of all the best places to check out in Old Montreal. This self-guided walking tour will take you past some of the most important historical buildings in Old Montreal. So we’ve added in some interesting information about this bygone part of the city. Come with us now on our Christmas Lights Trail of Old Montreal!

McGill Street

At the corner of Victoria Square is where McGill Streets begins and heads down into the Old Town of Montreal. McGill Street is famously known as “the link between the strategic sectors of the Old Port, Old Montreal, and the Quartier international.” It is one of the most historical and, therefore, illustrious streets in Montreal. You can find such important buildings as the Canadian National Railway Company, Canadian Coast Guard, Canada Border Services Agency and a slew of popular restaurants all along this stretch of road.

During the winter season, the streets and individual buildings are all lit up for the holidays. The street is lined with these fantastic illuminated trees with a giant ball of lights bursting from the top! Enormous wreaths hang inside windows. And you can almost always see some of the most fanciful garlands made from real fir trees suspended from the doorways. The intoxicating smell drifts into your nose as you explore.

Maison Pepin

Continue along McGill Street until you reach Saint-Paul Street West. Turn left along the street until you read the famous Maison Pepin. During the wintertime, the alleyway entrance into Maison Pepin’s is transformed into their “Marché de Noël.” The old brick alley looks like something out of Harry Potter! As if you stepped into Diagon Alley when it’s all decorated for Christmas. Wreaths and Christmas tree hangs along the walls and when freshly fallen snow graces you with its presence the entire place is like a painting. Every year the team that decorated the alley brings a new element of wonder and this year their use of dried flowers is absolutely enchanting. And the entire scene is lit with a series of lights above casting down an ethereal glow on the alley.

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Miracle on Place d’Youville

Continue shortly down Saint-Paul Street West and take a short detour towards Rue Saint Pierre to the corner of Place d’Youville. Hidden away, inside the Parlement Bar is an absolute Christmas Wonderland. Miracle Bar is like Christmas turned up to eleven. From the floor to the ceiling, Christmas wrapping paper covers the entirety of the space. Lights twinkle from every corner, hundreds of stockings hang from the top, and of course, Christmas music blares throughout the bar. It has the warmest, most friendly atmosphere, like walking into a warm hug. When I was in town, I was alone for a portion of the trip, and I didn’t feel alone in here for a second. Everyone was in the spirit of Christmas and happy to make new friends.

There are a myriad of Christmas-themed drinks on offer, as well as beer, cider and yes, even non-alcoholic drinks as well! They all come in a delightful array of Christmas drinkware, and if you love what you’re served in, you can even buy a mug or cup to bring home!

Place Royal

Continue along old Place d’Youville to Place Royal. Place Royale has always been an important meeting place for the people of Montreal. In the early 19th century, this was where you could have found the old marketplace. Today, the square is dominated by the Old Customs House. This is an archaeological site, which is a part of the Pointe-à-Callière museum. At Christmas time, the square is filled with a series of real Christmas trees. A large illuminated tree is positioned in the centre, with a life-sized sleigh nearby for fantastic photo ops!

Rue Saint Paul

Walking up Place Royal Street towards Saint Paul street, you can continue along this long road. Saint-Laurent Boulevard divides the street where Saint Paul Street becomes Rue Saint Paul. This is because Saint-Laurent Boulevard was once the dividing line between the English part of town and the French quarter. Saint-Paul is Montreal’s oldest street and for many years served as its main thoroughfare. It was established in 1672 and named after Paul de Chomedey de Maisonneuve, founder of Montreal. His residence was located on this street and built-in 1650. Rue Saint-Paul follows the path of the old fort which once bordered the area.

During Christmas, Saint-Paul street is perhaps the most enchanting. Massive Christmas light installations are put up on either side of the street. Creating almost a halo of light above the road. The stores on either side of the street are filled to bursting with Christmas spirit. It seems like every boutique has its own unique approach to Christmas decor and peeking your head inside is a wonderful way to warm up.

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Rue Saint Vincent / Rue Saint Anne

As we continue towards Place Jacques-Cartier, make a quick detour up Rue Saint Vincent. The street was originally built on the land owned by Jean-Vincent Philippe de Hautmesnil. Jean-Vincent was a businessman and wealthy fur trader. His uncle, the Sulpician Gabriel Souart, was the first parish priest of Montreal. The street gets its name from the patron saint of Jean-Vincent Philippe de Hautmesnil.

Just a few feet along Rue Saint Vincent is the incredible alleyway Rue Saint Anne. This hidden passageway is framed by a series of old wooden branches in platers covered in twinkle lights. And as you enter the alley, you pass under a monumental archway also wrapped in lights. Creating this tunnel all aglow!

Place Jacques-Cartier

At the end of the Rue Saint-Vincent, you’ll pop out right in the middle of Place Jacques-Cartier. The square was originally built in 1723 as the royal gardens belonging to the Château Vaudreuil. The Château Vaudreuil was made for Philippe de Rigaud, Marquis de Vaudreuil but was burned down in 1803. After the destruction, the city transformed the space into a public square, known then as New Market Place.

In 1809, a large column was installed and named ‘Nelson’s Column.’ But in 1847, it was renamed in honour of Jacques Cartier, the explorer who claimed Canada for France in 1535. Today it stands as the oldest public monument in Montreal. During the Christmas season, the street is lined with lighted trees. At the top of the square is a huge light art installation. Made in the shape of large bare trees with branches resembling reindeer antlers.

Bonsecours Market

Head back down to the Rue Saint Paul-East and continue walking until you reach the Bonsecours Market. Bonsecours Market is a two-story domed public market first built in 1844. And for more than 100 years, it was the main public market in Montreal. Today, it’s home to boutique shops popular with tourists. During the Christmas season, the building’s large Doric columns are covered in Christmas lights. Highlighting the beautiful architecture of the old building.

Rue de la Commune

Take a short walk towards the water, out to Rue de la Commune. Rue de la Commune follows the original shore of the Saint Lawrence River. The buildings along the north side of the road are former commercial buildings.

From this point, you have a beautiful view along the tree line Rue de la Commune and the accompanying Christmas lights. You can also see the beautiful Old Port to the north and towering La Grande Roue de Montréal Ferris Wheel, which lights up the sky.

View of Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel

After getting a good look at the Port, head back up towards Rue Notre Dame Est. Make a stop at the top of the street, where you have an incredible view of Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel. The Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel is one of the oldest churches in Montreal. Built in 1771 over the ruins of an earlier chapel. The church is always decorated and lit up for Christmas. With the Ferris wheel spinning overhead, this spot makes for the perfect photo opportunity.

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Vauquelin Place

Looping back towards where we started, walk along Rue Notre Dame Est to Vauquelin Place beside the old Montreal City Hall. The small square is home to the old Montreal Great Christmas tree! It is one of the most instagrammable spots in the city during the Christmas season. The square is named after captain Vauquelin who was a distinguished French naval office. A statue of the captain still dominates the square behind the fountain where the Christmas tree is located.

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Montreal Courthouse

Further down the street, you’ll come up the Montreal Courthouse. The brutalist style of architecture really stands out among the old town neo-gothic buildings. In front of the courthouse every year, they put up a large white illuminated Christmas tree. While it is just one lone Christmas tree, the way the light reflects off the glass windows of the building is really spectacular.

Places d’Armes

At the intersection of Rue Notre Dame-West and St. Sulpice Street, we find the Places d’Armes. Place d’Armes is a large public square centred around some of the most famous buildings in the city. This includes the great Notre-Dame Basilica, Saint-Sulpice Seminary, New York Life Building, Aldred Building and Bank of Montreal head office.

Originally the public square was called ‘Place de la Fabrique‘ when it was first developed in 1693, at the request of the Sulpicians. It was later renamed Place d’Armes in 1721 when it became the stage for various military events. From 1781 to 1813, it was used as a hay and wood market. Eventually, in 1836 it was redeveloped as a Victorian garden. For more than a hundred years, the square fell out of favour and eventually fell into disrepair. It wasn’t until 2009 that the city decided to renovate it at a whopping cost of $15.5 million!

During the holiday season, the square is one of the most popular places to come to see the Christmas lights. Massive illuminated stars are set up all around the square. They look like shooting stars that have fallen to earth. As you stand there the stars change colour and transform the look of the square. Just across from the square, the Banque Nationale also features a large window display on their first floor. The trio of Christmas trees and blue twinkling lights delight all the visitors passing by.

Parc Saint-Jean

Continuing along Rue Notre Dame-West, you’ll see some different lighting designs dedicated to this area of town. Along this street, the lampposts are hung with sprays of illuminated tree branches and large brightly glowing snowflakes twinkle and shine.

At the intersection of Rue Notre Dame-West and Rue Saint-Jean is a small parkette named Parc Saint-Jean. This park is decorated with the most delightful Christmas lights. It features a large illuminated arch that makes for one of the best Instagram spots in the town. And best of all, this park is pretty hidden away and usually a little very peaceful. The rest of the park is dotted with giant twinkling snowflakes, randomly dispersed all over the grounds.

This brings us to the end of our tour of Montreal Old Town’s Christmas Lights. If you are interested in continuing your tour of Montreal Christmas Lights, head on over to our blog post on Downtown Montreal’s Best Christmas Lights! Let me know in the comments where your favourite displays are in Montreal or what you’re most looking forward to seeing.

Happy Travels, Adventurers!

The post The Ultimate Self Guided Tour of Old Montreal’s Best Christmas Lights first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

Table Of Contents

1. Tips for Surviving Winters in Montreal
2. Do You Need to Speak French?
3. Map of the Walking Tour
4. Christmas Light of Old Montreal
5. Old Port Skating Rink
6. Miracle Christmas Bar
7. Sir George-Étienne Cartier National Historic Site
8. Marché Place Jacques-Cartier
9. Noël Éternel
10. Notre-Dame Basilica Aura
11. Le Petit Dep
12. Centaur Theatre
13. Cité Mémoire
14. Village de Noël de Montréal
15. Luminothérapie
16. The Nutcracker
17. The Jardins d'Hiver
18. Jean-Talon Christmas Market
19. Montreal Christmas Village
20. Noël dans le Parc
21. Saint Joseph's Oratory of Mount Royal
22. Juliette et Chocolate
23. Le Darling

Tips for Surviving Winters in Montreal

Montreal is COLD. And I’m saying that as a Canadian. There is something about that Montreal winter that hits different. Perhaps it’s the wind, or maybe it’s the humidity off the river (that’s right, there is even humidity in the winter). Whatever the reason, being prepared to face the winter weather is key to having a good time in Montreal. The average temperatures in December are around -4.7°C or 23.5°F. But don’t let the set temperature fool you. Let me introduce you to a very Canadian term, the “feels like.” We don’t just look at the thermometer. You need to check the “feels like” temperature. This takes into consideration the wind strength, humidity, as well as air temperature to give you an idea of what it actually feels like outside.

Most public spaces in Montreal require you to wear your mask at all times unless you are eating and drinking. So be sure to bring with you some high-quality masks. The current recommendation, especially during the winter, is to wear disposable KN95 masks. Luckily, these come in all different colours and even various patterns just like the cloth masks. So no need to simply settle for the boring medical blue and white. Hand sanitizer is always recommended to have on hand when you cannot wash your hands right away. Especially when getting on and off public transit.

Dress in Layers

One of the best pieces of advice for winter weather dressing is to wear layers. Then if the weather warms up or cools down, you can take off or put on more layers as needed. Some essential materials to look out for are merino wool, polar fleece and cashmere. These fabrics will help keep you warm but won’t make you sweat, as the materials are more breathable. You can find quality winter items on Amazon or in any of your favourite clothing shops (Uniqlo, J. Crew, Everlane). If you’re on a budget but really want to have something cozy, check out your local thrift shops. I have found dozens of fabulous 100% wool or cashmere sweater at thrift and vintage store. Usually for less than $20 when brand new they would cost over $200 and up! Plus vintage shopping always results in some sweet styles.

Winter Coat

If you already own a winter coat, you definitely need to bring that. But if you live in a warm place like California and think a light pea coat is a satisfactory winter coat, you’re going to have to rethink that a little. The two key elements that make up a quality coat for winters in Montreal. These are the length and the filling. You really want a long coat, at least something that goes down to your knees since you’re legs can get really cold.

The other element is to ensure the coat is down feathers filled. If you want to avoid animal products in your clothes you can also look for synthetic alternatives. Look for coats containing Primaloft, Omni-Heat, Thermolite, Thermacore, or Weathered fillings. A good coat with a hood is also a great way to ensure your head and neck are warm, as they are one of the primary ways heat escapes the body in the winter.

Boots

A good set of winter boots is also a key to ensuring those toes don’t get too cold. There is nothing worse than cold feet in the winter. It turns a lovely walking tour into a real pain. Since you can’t feasibly change from boots to fancier shoes as you go in and out of cafes and restaurants throughout the day, I suggest investing in a stylish boot. Luckily, so many brands make fashionable winter boots you’ll be happy to put on when you go outside.

Sorel is my go-to boot brand, but there are many other options from UGG, Dr. Martens, Blundstone and Columbia. If you don’t think you’ll have any use for a high-quality winter boot when you get home, try going to the used-clothing store and buying a pair second-hand. Just look for those brands listed as even an older boot will still be well made enough to last for ages.

Accessories

Even if you have a hood on your coat, you’d want to be sure to bring a large scarf or neck warmer to put around your neck. The wind can be brutal and blow your hood back, so you’ll be glad to have the scarf. I also bring a few different hats with me as it feels like a fun way to change up my outfit when I’m travelling in the winter.

Warm gloves are essential; you won’t get away with just putting your hands in your pocket. Trust me, I ran into some travellers from Spain who were otherwise dressed perfectly but missing their gloves, and by the end of our walking tour, their hands were freezing. If you use your phone to take pictures, you’ll want to get a pair of gloves with touch screen capabilities. Even taking your hand out of your gloves for a few minutes to take some pictures can really cool you down, especially at night. 

If you are terrified of the cold, I suggest investing in a set of hand warmers. These are fantastic to use throughout the day when the weather really dips down low. One of my favourite options is these OCOOPA Rechargeable Hand Warmers. They are a bit of an investment, but if you live in a cold-weather climate, you can easily use them throughout the year as well. And maybe this trip is the push you need to buy them. Plus they also double as a phone charger as well! If you just need something for the length of your vacation, you can also buy a pack of disposable hand warmers. These last up to 7-hours and easily fit inside your pocket to keep those hands nice and warm.

Long Johns

To keep your legs warm, you’ll want to bring along a pair of warm long johns. These can easily fit underneath your jeans or pants, so they won’t really change the look of your outfit. Fleece Lined thermals as the best thing to get to keep you warm all day long. If you can afford a pair of cashmere thermals, you’ll be overjoyed to find how utterly cozy you’ll feel.

But the cold weather and chance of precipitation mean you’re very likely to see snow when you arrive. The falling snow is like free Christmas decorations cast upon the city. So instead of complaining about it, just dress for success!

Do You Need to Speak French?

Although French is the official language in Montreal, you absolutely can visit the city without speaking any French at all. The signage might worry you at first since it is all in French (by law). But almost everyone in the city speaks English. In fact, many people live and work here who barely can speak fluent French themselves. Unlike Quebec City, which is primarily French-speaking, 57.4% of the population can speak both English and French. That being said, it is always a good idea to learn a bit of French to use when visiting. Below are some key phrases to know if you want to try and speak a bit of the local language.

Hello: Bonjour 
Goodbye: Au revoir
Thanks: Merci 
You’re welcome: De rien 
Please: S’il vous plaît
How are you?: Comment allez-vous?
how are you?: ca va? 
Yes: Oui
No:  Non
Okay: D’accord
I don’t speak French: Je ne parle pas français
Corner Store: Dépanneur (you’ll see this everywhere, so it’s good to know what it means)
Sorry: désolé (the most Canadian word to learn)

Map of the Walking Tour

Christmas Light of Old Montreal

There is nothing better than watching the snowfall while wandering the cobblestone streets of Old Montreal. The buildings that pop up throughout the old town date back as far as the 17th century. They are some of the most interesting and eye-catching buildings anywhere in the city. You absolutely cannot visit Montreal without making a trip to visit the old town and honestly seeing it at Christmas is just that much more special!

At Christmas time, the entire neighbourhood is decorated with fantastical Christmas lights and illuminated installations. Different streets have their own particular themes, like snowflakes, branches, stars and twinkling ornaments. Add to that the multitude of incredible Christmas window displays which peek out of the shop fronts, and you are left with one of the most magical experiences in Montreal!

Although my advice is simply to let yourself wander around the historic centre if you want to check off certain areas the street below are the best places to visit if you’re looking to see all the Christmas magic.

• McGill Street below Notre Dame Street
• Marche Bonsecour
• Saint Paul Street
• St. Sulpice Street
• Rue Saint-Vincent
• Place Jacque Cartier
• Rue de la Commune (along the riverside)
• Place Royal

Old Port Skating Rink

Located along the St. Laurence River, you’ll find the beautiful Old Port of Montreal. The Port was initially built in 1611 and used by the French fur traders used it as a trading post. Today, the modern riverside is filled with museums and tourist attractions. One of the newest of these attractions is the Grande roue de Montréal or Montreal Ferris Wheel. It is now the tallest Ferris wheel in Canada and looks out over the entirety of the city. From old town you can almost always see it peaking out over the buildings.

But if you just want to savour the view of the Ferris wheel while enjoying a classical Canadian winter activity, head to the Patinoire du Vieux Port. The Patinoire du Vieux Port or Old Port Skating rink is open from 9 am to 9 pm and until 10 pm Thursday to Sunday. The rink is such a unique setting with a spectacular view of Montréal. And when it gets dark, the rink is spectacularily illuminated. Skate rentals are $10.45 per person. You can also rent a helmet for $4.35 or bring your own skates for FREE!

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Miracle Christmas Bar

Hidden away, inside the Parlement Bar on Place d’Youville is an absolute Christmas Wonderland. Miracle Bar is like Christmas turned up to eleven. From the floor to the ceiling, Christmas wrapping paper covers the entirety of the space. Lights twinkle from every corner, hundreds of stockings hang from the ceiling, and of course, Christmas music blares throughout the bar. It has the warmest, most friendly atmosphere, like walking into a warm hug. When I was in town, I was alone for a portion of the trip, and I didn’t for a second feel alone in here. Everyone was in the spirit of Christmas and happy to make new friends.

There are a myriad of Christmas-themed drinks on offer, as well as beer, cider and yes, even non-alcoholic drinks as well! They all come in a delightful array of Christmas drinkware, and if you love what you’re served in, you can even buy a mug or cup to bring home!

Sir George-Étienne Cartier National Historic Site

If you’re like me a LOVE a Victorian Christmas, you must make a stop at the Sir George-Étienne Cartier National Historic Site. Every year they hold a “Victorian Christmas” at the Cartier’s home. The Sir George-Étienne Cartier National Historic Site is a historic house-turned museum located in Old Montreal. It commemorates the life and accomplishments of Sir George-Étienne Cartier. It also includes the old Cartier family home. The Cartiers were part of the upper-middle class of 19th-century Montreal and had one of the most illustrious homes in the city.

From December 4th to the 19th, you can take a guided tour of the house and see how it would have been set up for Christmas in 1897! You can see all the “latest” trends in Christmas decorations popular in the 19th century. See what they would have had on their Christmas table and even look at the marvellous fashions women would have worn to Christmas dinner. It’s a fantastic way to learn about life in the early days of Montreal and how Christmas traditions have both changed and stayed the same after hundred-plus years.

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Marché Place Jacques-Cartier

In the centre of Old Montreal is the Marché Place Jacques-Cartier. During the Christmas season, they set up a traditional Cabane à sucre in the square. The Cabane à sucre or sugar shack is usually found in the middle of maple groves deep in the woods around Quebec. The sap for the trees is collected throughout the year and boiled down in the springtime to make the most famous of all Canadian exports; maple syrup.

But in the wintertime, the maple syrup is boiled down even further to a thick, taffy-like consistency. It’s then poured onto a thick pile of snow to be cooled down even further. A popsicle stick is placed on top of the cooling sugar and rolled up until the sugar separates from the ice. And you get yourself a little maple syrup taffy on a stick. It is wonderfully sweet and such a treat to enjoy at Christmas time!

Noël Éternel

If you want to bring home the perfect Christmas souvenir from your trip to Montreal, there is no better place to go than Noël Éternel. The boutique located in the Old Quarter has been bringing the magic of Christmas to Montreal year-round since 1995. They have the most extensive collection of diverse Christmas decorations, from German nutcrackers, Russian dolls, mouth-blown glass ornaments or hand-painted items! There is something for everyone’s perfect Christmas tree no matter what your style.

Notre-Dame Basilica Aura

Basilique Notre-Dame de Montréal or Notre-Dame Basilica is one of the most famous buildings in all of Montreal. Its steeple can be seen from all over the city, as it was once a city ordinance that no building could be built taller than the church itself. Construction began on Notre-Dame Basilica in 1672 with a small parish. Over the years, after the growth of the city, Montreal wanted to be known as the jewel of Canada. And to be such a place you needed a fantastical church. The breathtaking interiors of the church were constructed from 1785 to 1795. And the facade and vaulting were finished in 1818.

The interior of the church is what people come from far and wide to see. It is perhaps the most dramatic interiors in North America, if not the world. It features masterpieces of Gothic Revival architecture, with deep blue painted vaults covered in golden stars. The sanctuary is painted in blues, azures, reds, purples, silver, and gold. One of the most unique aspects of the church is their stained glass windows. Instead of depicting biblical scenes, the windows depict scenes from the religious history of Montreal.

Aura

Over 11 million visitors come to see the church every year, and one of the most alluring aspects of the church is that they have transformed the space from a simple place of worship to a multimedia spectacular. Aura transforms the interior of the church and highlights different aspects of the building using lights and projections. Music accompanies the entire performance. At times it feels like you are witnessing the church being built around you.

As someone who loves ecclesiastical architecture, I found the entire thing very moving. But the tickets are pricey. At $32 a person, there are plenty of people who might find this over-priced and underwhelming, especially when you can see projections for free outside with Cite Memoir. The show runs from Thursday to Saturday all year. But it does feel extra special at Christmas, even without any specific Christmas references.

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Le Petit Dep

In the centre of Old Montreal, you can’t help but notice the darling aqua exterior and gold trimmings of Le Petit Dep. “Dep” is short for “Dépanneur,” which means convenience store. But this is a convenience store unlike any other! The building is from 1822 and has been transformed into this hipster coffee shop and boutique. Retro decor and vintage furniture compliment the space, inviting you inside and wrapping you in warmth from the cold. The cafe features a myriad of different Christmas-themed desserts during the Christmas season. And the boutique turns into the absolute perfect one-stop shop for everyone on your Christmas list.

Centaur Theatre

Located in the old Canadian stock exchange building, Centaur Theatre is one of the best examples of Montreal’s vibrant art community. Every year they put on a showstopping Christmas comedy. There is something new to see every year. If you are looking for something a little different than you’re typical Christmas nativity play, then this is definitely something you should check out!

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Cité Mémoire

If you need another reason to wander the old streets of Montreal after the sun goes down, it is to see Cité Mémoire. Cité Mémoire breathes new life into the old city. The best outdoor video projections the world over are used across the old town to transform the urban landscape. Buildings and cobblestones are used as a canvas to tell the stories that have shaped the city. 24 different tableaux composed of images, dialogue, and music are projected on walls, alleys, ground, and even on the trees! Be sure to download their app that will guide you along the different routes. This allows you to explore the various projections hidden around the city with ease.

While there might not be a specific Christmas theme to this installation, it gives you a reason to get out and enjoy the outdoors after dark. And watching the projections surrounded by falling snow and twinkling Christmas lights is nevertheless a magical holiday experience.

Village de Noël de Montréal

If you’re like me and mourning the fact that you couldn’t easily make it out to the German Christmas Markets this year, the Great Christmas Market in Montreal or Village de Noël de Montréal will make your heart sing! From the end of November until the beginning of January, you can wander through a magical journey inside the Quartier des Spectacles. There are over 30 different enchanting chalets featuring both local artisans, musical entertainment and delicious food.

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Inspired by traditional Christmas markets, you can find everything here from handmade jewellery, gourmet food, and classical Christmas decorations. The Montreal cold might be bitter, but it pairs well with a mulled wine and hot chocolate. Even if you’re not planning on buying anything, the decor which surrounds the market is so beguiling it’s worth just exploring.

Luminothérapie

Also located in the Quartier des Spectacles and Place des Festivals is Luminothérapie. Luminothérapie is an interactive illuminated art exhibit. Buildings have incredible projections placed upon them, and magical sound-and-light installations are placed along the sidewalks to be interacted with by passers-by. This is the kind of Christmas magic that you’ll see being enjoyed as much by the locals as by visitors. For the locals, it is something new and exciting to see. And as the winter weather begins to creep in it makes the cold all the more enjoyable.

The Nutcracker

Every year, the Les Grands Ballets Canadiens de Montréal presents The Nutcracker throughout the month of December. This year the show is a unique take on the production featuring the Kingdom of Sweets as well as all that iconic Tchaikovsky score. The show overwhelms you with the Christmas spirit and is a wonderful way to see the artistry of the Montreal ballet.

The Jardins d’Hiver

Jardins d’Hiver, or the Winter Gardens, is a special Christmas trail located just outside the Place des Arts, on Sainte-Catherine Street between Jeanne-Mance and Saint-Urbain. The wintery pathway takes visitors along a Christmas trees-lined maze towards these little cottages displaying enchanting dioramas. It’s like exploring a magical and luminous fairy-tale. The trail ends with a Grand Christmas tree perfect for your holiday photos.

Jean-Talon Christmas Market

The Jean-Talon Market is a huge farmer’s market in the Little Italy neighbourhood of Montreal. The market was opened to the public in 1933 and is over two city blocks long! The market is open year-round, even during Montreal’s frigid winters. As of last year, they opened their very first Christmas Market. The market has a focus on local cuisine! This market is a festive culinary experience that you absolutely cannot miss! Everything from chocolate to maple syrup and pastries are overflowing inside the darling wooden huts located inside the market building. Twinkle lights hang from the ceiling and blue spruce and fir trees make the entire room smell like Christmas!

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Montreal Christmas Village

Located just outside the Old Town, in Atwater Place du Marché, you can walk around Montreal’s Christmas Village. The event is held from the end of November to the end of December. This marvellous public square is decorated for the holidays with local food vendors, artisan market stalls, live music and great activities for the kids. The little kiosks are all set up inside a wooden hut, reminiscent of old European Christmas markets.

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A Christmas tree farmer sells Christmas trees inside the market to the locals here, so it always smells divine! Sitting beside the Christmas trees enjoying a hot cup of cocoa is a wonderful way to relax.

Noël dans le Parc

Noël dans le Parc, or Christmas in the Park, is an event held along Mont-Royal Avenue and Cartier Street in the Parc des compagnons de Saint-Laurent. Festivities run on the weekends from 2 pm to 5 pm during November and December. The Christmas celebrations include wonderful musical entertainment, perfect for those who love to sing carols. Grab a glass of warm mulled wine or hot chocolate and sit to enjoy the wonderful musical and artistic programming. This is very much a community-driven event, so you’ll find lots of locals with their families coming out to enjoy the outdoor party.

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Saint Joseph’s Oratory of Mount Royal

Saint Joseph’s Oratory of Mount Royal is one of the most picturesque places to visit in Montreal. But at Christmas time, there is an even better reason to make your way out here. Inside the church is their museum collection featuring their various famous “Crèches.” A Crèche is a model or tableau representing the scene of Jesus Christ’s birth, usually displayed in homes or public places at Christmas. We also call these “Nativity Scenes.” The museum collections feature two of the church’s historic large outdoor Nativity Scenes.

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But even more interesting, is the museum’s collection entitled ‘A World in a Crèche.’ This part of the museum features nearly one hundred Nativity Scenes from as many countries. Viewing all these different scenes, you can study the different ways each country depicts the Nativity scenes and how different artists make their unique impression on the classical display.

Juliette et Chocolate

One of my personal favourite places to go in Montreal is Juliette et Chocolate. This is place has immense nostalgia for me as I would frequent it with my dad when he lived in Montreal. Juliette et Chocolate is a chocolate lover’s paradise! Their cafe was originally just a little chocolate shop in Quebec City but as soon as it opened, it was a complete hit with the locals! They opened their first location in Montreal and it was just as big a success. Today, there are three different locations spread across the city. The shop sells all kinds of decadent desserts. From intensely chocolate brownies to rich fondues, sweet crepes and artful chocolates and pastries!

Hot Chocolate

But during the Christmas season, there is one main reason to come to Juliette et Chocolate, which is for their hot chocolate! They have over eight different flavours, which are sure to warm your body and soul. The favourite that keeps me coming back year after year is their Grandma’s style hot cocoa. The velvety hot chocolate is so thick and rich it almost feels like you’re drinking a chocolate fondu! You can even choose the type of chocolate for your drink; 70% Dark, 55% Dark, 33% Milk, or White!

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And don’t worry, if you’re vegan, they even have a few vegan options made with an almond beverage. For a splurge, go for their smoked campfire hot chocolate (which costs a whopping $14.59 CAD!) This chocolatey campfire experience comes with their velvety hot chocolate smoked with wood chips and served with our brownie and toasted marshmallow skewer. If you’re looking for the best Christmas gift to bring home, they have a wide selection of amazing Christmas-themed chocolates and even produce their own advent calendars.

Le Darling

Darling café and bar are some of the enchanting settings for a Christmas dinner or nightcap. Hidden away inside a dark window front along Blvd St-Laurent, you step inside and are immediately overwhelmed by the whimsical decor within. The interior designers responsible for the fantastic interiors were inspired by colours and textures from steampunk with a modern, sassy twist. Decorating the walls are eclectic items like dolls inside bell jars, teacups, mannequins and carnival regalia. But during the Christmas season, they go ALL OUT on Christmas decorations with baubles hanging from every single surface and twinkling lights casting a magical warm glow all around the room.

Wherever you find yourself in this city, you are bound to discover the magic of Christmas. From random choirs roaming the streets to Christmas light displays outside family homes, there is so much to see and do in this city outside of the list I’ve curated for you here. Let me know in the comments what amazing discoveries you make on your next trip to Montreal!

Happy Travels, Adventurers!

The post Your Guide to Spending the Best Christmas Holiday in Montreal [UPDATED 2023] first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

Spend a day in Inglewood, and you will experience an eclectic mix of vintage clothing stores, modern eateries, family-owned cafés, independent boutiques, natural health stores, and more! This tour will show you the best parts of Inglewood and why you should spend your next day there!

Table Of Contents

1. History
2. Where to Eat
3. Where to Drink
4. Where to Shop
5. What to See & Do

History

Inglewood has the distinction of being Calgary’s oldest neighbourhood. It was established in 1875 after nearby Fort Calgary was built. When the area was built, Inglewood had the very first “main street” in the city! Over the years, the central part of downtown moved westward, but still, much of the historic nature of the area remains. Since the area also borders the Elbow and the Bow rivers, it is home to several nature preserves. This makes it such a wonderful place to visit as you can get a taste of the urban city and the peaceful natural environment all in one place.

Where to Eat

Rosso Coffee Roasters

Inglewood doesn’t rise early, but if you find yourself in the area looking for your morning cup of coffee, you should head over to Rosso Coffee Roasters. Rosso is extra special since they source and roast their own beans and have even won awards for their top-notch brews! If you’re looking for something to bring home with you, their roasted beans are a great treat to enjoy long after your trip is over.

Gravity Espresso & Wine Bar

Gravity Espresso is one of those coffee shops that feels like a staple of the community. Their little artist gallery inside featuring new local talent is such a beautiful way to learn about the artisans who make their living in Inglewood. Sitting in this comfy shop you’ll get to watch locals meet up, chat with their favourite baristas and smile at strangers as their morning begins with a great cup of coffee. And the coffees are really that good!

Red’s Diner Ramsay

As fun as trendy and hip brunch places are, nothing really hits the spot better than a traditional greasy spoon-type diner. And Red’s Diner is the best of the best. Red’s Diner serves incredible all-day breakfasts inside a friendly and comfortable interior. They have all the classics and a specialty Prairie Breakfast Plate, which adds potato cheddar perogies and Rocky’s kielbasa to a traditional breakfast platter. Their Blueberry, Basil & Goat Cheese Stuffed French Toast was INCREDIBLE! Portions are enormous, so don’t hesitate to share.

Madison’s 12|12

Madison’s 12|12 is known for its community-focused and community-funded approach to owning a restaurant. They have created a beautiful space for people to gather, create, enjoy, share, and become inspired. Their menu is a ridiculous mix…And I mean that in a good way! They have their iconic poke bowls, a large selection of vegan options and their most popular item: craft nachos! There are over 10 different bonkers varieties of nachos: macaroni & cheese nachos, wilted kale & roasted yam nachos, loaded perogies jack nachos, and the Reuben nacho. But the nacho selection doesn’t end there! They even have dessert nachos. You can try their apple pie nachos, cinnamon sugar tortilla chips or the Inglewood dream cake with cinnamon sugar tortilla chips and creamed almonds.

The Blue Store

The Blue Store is where you need to come to find your essential groceries plus some truly extraordinary delights! If you’re looking for Korean Fried Chicken, this is the place for you! Grab some to-do along with a tray of Yakuza Sushi and a large iced slushie! Their aim in creating this general store was to bring affordable groceries to everyone in the community and embrace the nostalgia of this heritage building. They have restored the original hardwood floors and tin ceilings and added a 60’s & 70’s inspired mural outside. This is the perfect place to grab a handful of snacks and ready-to-eat meals and head over to the edge of the Bow River to enjoy your meal with the best view in town!

Inglewood Drive-In

If it’s time to get something to eat for lunch, head on over to the Inglewood Drive-In. This retro Diner is one of those classic spots you just can’t miss. Don’t let the dated exterior fool you; this place is an iconic Calgary destination. Everything from their mouth-watering handmade burgers, thick milkshakes, crispy onion rings, and perfectly seasoned french fries will make you coming back for more. They even serve up a Dole Whip ice cream! One of the only places you can get this pineapple treat outside of Disneyland. But the old-school foods aren’t without a few modern twists. They have new additions like the curry veggie burger and the spicy kimchi burger.

Deane House

One of the best ways to end off your day is with dinner at Deane House. Deane House was initially built in 1906 for Captain Richard Deane, who worked at Fort Calgary. Eventually, the house was moved the where you find it today. It was moved in 1929 to an area with a better view of the Elbow River. Over the years, the house was used as a boarding home and then purchased by the city to be used as a gallery.

Today, it’s home to one of the best restaurants in the city. In the summertime, you can dine outside in their immersive garden, rain or shine. Although they have a complete a-la-carte menu, the best option is their delightful 5-course chef’s tasting menu. The chef curates this selection weekly to suit the flavours and fresh produce of the month. The 5-course menu is $90 per person, which is truly a great price for the quality of food you receive. It’s such a fantastic way to cap off your evening.

Where to Drink

Ol’ Beautiful Brewing Co.

To end the night, take a walk over to the Ol’ Beautiful Brewing Co. Ol’Beautiful Brewing Co. is located in this little hidden away corner of Inglewood, where you’ll want to while the night away. I’m not going to lie; the design of the beer cans drew me in right away but it was the amazing atmosphere that made me want to stay. The time-worn and well-loved interior designs of their taproom feels like it belongs in the hippest streets of Los Angeles or New York City. Inside this chic and vintage-adorned interior, you can sit and enjoy any of their amazing craft brews. Best of all surrounded by their friendly staff and incredible regulars. They are more than happy to help you find your perfect brew! If the weather is nice, their outdoor patio is a lively and fun place to enjoy your drinks.

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Cold Garden Beverage Company

Revival Brewcade

If you’re a night owl and aren’t yet ready for your night to end, head back up to 9th avenue to Revival Brewcade. While the bar is stocked with incredible drinks, the best thing about this place is the retro pinball and arcade machines that line the walls. One of my biggest pet peeves about so-called “retro arcade bars” is how expensive the games can be. But here at Revival Brewcade, you can buy a $5 all you can play pinball card!! This will keep you there all night trying to get the top score!

Where to Shop

Fair’s Fair Books

Inglewood is home to some of the best shopping in all of Calgary. Make your first stop at the famed Fair’s Fair Books. This shop has been open since 1988, curating one of the best-used books stores in the province. While some used bookstores are a real shot in the dark for finding what you’re looking for, this enormous store really feels more like a high-end new bookstore as their selection is so deep! Plus, the cute and quirky decorations really make the place so inviting.

The Apothecary in Inglewood

If you’re looking to relax, then you need to visit the Apothecary in Inglewood! You’re overwhelmed with the intoxicating smell of aromatic herbs, spices, and more just walking in the door. This store is known for its zero waste goods, pure essential oils, bulk herbs and refillable products. Forget Lush bath bombs and instead grab yourself a few of their handmade herbal bombs to pamper yourself in an indulgent bath. I love their selection of locally crafted candles as well. Nothing better than scents to bring back travel memories!

Moonstone Creation

Moonstone Creation is an Indigenous-owned and family-run business proud to represent over 60 Indigenous makers and artisans from across Turtle Island. So many people buy Moccasins as a souvenir when visiting anywhere in Canada but rarely are these created by Indigenous makers. To purchase an authentic pair of Moccasins is expensive, but that is because they are intricately made by hand, with genuine leather and embellished with meaningful beading. But most importantly, you are supporting and honouring the Indigenous culture by buying them from Indigenous creators.

If you are looking for a beautiful gift or souvenir, they also have lovely beaded feather & orange shirt brooch kits. It’s a great way to learn about the history of beading and the methods which they have used to create these crafts for hundreds of years. The kits come with all the supplies you need. They also run beading workshops throughout the year, so check their website to see if one is running while you’re in town!

The Livery Shop

If your style is chic minimalism, then The Livery Shop is the place for you! Just walking inside makes me feel lighter. The shop carries a great selection of local and Canadian designers. It’s also a fantastic place to come for gifts, especially during the holiday season. One of their most popular brands is Camp Brand Goods which sells the most adorable and cozy casual outdoor wear inspired by vintage camp aesthetics.

Smithbilt Hats Inc

There’s perhaps no better accessory to shop for in Calgary than a cowboy hat. And no better place to do so than Smithbilt Hats Inc. The Smithbilt’s company was started by Morris Schumiatcher in 1910. The Schumiatcher family immigrated from Russia to Canada and changed their name to Smith when they arrived. The family made and sold dress hats with small brims, as was the style in Europe at the time. But as they spent more time in the prairies, the Stampede Board wanted to have Smithbilt’s create a special hat to promote western wear. This was where the white cattleman hat was invented. The white cattleman hat soon became the symbol of the Stampede and of Calgary itself.

You can still buy your very own white cattleman hat today in the shop. But there are so many more designs to choose from. Everything from classic styles to modern, brightly coloured hats withs feather and jewelled embellishments. Even if hats aren’t your thing, checking out the artistry required to handmake these hats is well worth your time. Drop-in and visit this truly historic Calgary establishment.

Tea Trader

Walking into the Tea Trader feels like stepping back in time. Tins line the walls on one side and wooden crates of freshly imported tea line on the other. Tea Trader was established in Calgary in 1993 and chose historic Inglewood as its destination since the business seemed to fit right into the old main street. It recently moved south to the Ramsey Design Centre. But is still easily accessible on a day out in Inglewood. They even have an old cash register on display which makes shopping here so unique. In terms of the tea, they carry you can find lots of traditional teas with complex flavours. They even have unique seasonal flavours that will really make warming up on a cold day all the more enjoyable.

Purr Fine Clothing & Accessories

Shopping for clothes in Inglewood is terrific as you can find such unique stores. Purr Fine Clothing and Accessories is one of the best examples. It carries everything from designer pieces, locally handmade clothing to casual streetwear and fantastic accessories. The curation inside this store is phenomenal! I’ve been somewhere that felt more lovingly hand-selected. The staff is always more than helpful to recommend great items you might not immediately lend towards but might really surprise you! Some of the things are on the pricer side, as they are often small batch and ethically made, but their sale section is always a great place to find amazing deals.

Elysian Alchemy

Elysian Alchemy is where to come if you are into the metaphysical and spiritual goods. It’s a mystical general store. Walking inside, the smell of incense fills your nose, and the beautiful stones are simply dazzling. Here, you can get everything from handmade beauty products with herbal healing qualities, candles, crystals, tarot, and oracle cards.

That Old Retro Store

That Old Retro Store is the perfect place to come if you’re a fan of vinyl and vintage records. It’s a dream for music lovers. Floor to ceiling is thousands of records, vintage music posters and gorgeous retro Stereo Equipment, which they repair and restore. The staff here are so friendly and will help you find whatever you’re looking for. Very important in sorting through such a treasure trove of vintage vinyl.

Recess

For anyone who loves stationery as much as me, visiting Recess is like being a kid in a candy store! There’s nothing better than a bright white interior filled with vividly bejewelled paper treasures. If you haven’t grabbed a new journal to document your travel memories, this is the perfect place to get one. If you’re interested in learning how to create beautiful hand lettering to take your journaling game to the next level, then you should grab one of their customs Learn to Letter Guides. They have so many unique items that will spice up any desk drawer.

Plant

Even if you can’t bring any of these little beauties home with you, a visit to Plant Shop is sure to brighten any grey day. The Plant Shop aims to help re-connect people with the natural world and inspire them to build and maintain more beautiful spaces! Just walking around the shop and looking at all the exotic plants is such a serene experience. They have great selections of handmade and ceramic planters as well in a myriad of exciting designs. So if you have some green beauties at home, you can bring these home as a memento of your trip. Plus their custom DIY Terrariums are a gorgeous gift for anyone who wants a low-maintenance plant to bring some greenery into their home office.

The Silk Road Spice Merchant

The Silk Road Spice Merchant is my favourite shop in town. This is the perfect place to come to upgrade your pantry! The colours, smells and flavours of the spices on offer here are captivating. The Silk Road Spice Merchant started up when the owners couldn’t find the kinds of international spices they wanted to try in their cooking. So they aimed to start up their own store where they would carry every type of spice imaginable! One of my favourite things in their shop is their Hot Cocoa blends. They offer Spicy Mexican Hot Cocoa, Winter Spice (with cinnamon, ginger, cloves and mace,) Cinnamon Cardamom Hot Cocoa and even Chai Masala Hot Cocoa. All of these warm, exotic flavours are the perfect thing to warm you up on a cold night.

What to See & Do

St. Patrick’s Island Park

St. Patrick’s Island Park opened in 2015 after a major facelift. Today, you can ride down the immaculate bike paths along the Bow River, admiring not only the natural beauty but the incredible public works of art along the way. The kids have lovely play areas, and the restored river channels make beautiful swimming spots in the summer heat. A place called ‘the rise’ is this large grassy knoll that literally rises up nine meters high. From this vantage point, you can look out over the parks around you, and it is an excellent place for sunset picnics and great toboggan runs in the winter.

Harvie Passage

The Harvie Passage Lookout is wonderfully designed to give visitors a stunning view of the rapids below. Harvie Passage is a fast-running channel off the Bow River. After a massive flood in 2013, the city went about an extensive redesign to not only make this part of the river safer (for the rafters who would constantly sneak onto the waters) but provide a more enjoyable experience for river-based recreationists.

Inglewood Wildlands & Bird Sanctuary

The Inglewood Wildlands is a vast wildlife reserve spread out over 36 hectares on the southeast edge of Inglewood. Inside the reserve, over 270 species of birds can be spotted at different times of the year. The best time to come is in the Spring and summer, but you can still find life here in the park, even in the fall and winter. The peaceful park is a great place to come to escape the busy city. Here you can stroll along the serene walking pathways, cross bridges over the river and even find a lagoon.

Scotsman’s Hill

If you’re looking for a spot to watch the sunset over the city, take a walk through ENMAX Park to the top of Scotsman’s Hill. To get there you’ll walk through the Elbow Riverpath which is the most serene walking path surrounded by Calgary’s relaxing natural landscape. Scotsman’s Hill is one of the best places in the town to give a view of Calgary’s skyline set behind a steep escarpment facing the Elbow River.

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Table Of Contents

1. History
   • Quidi Vidi Battery
2. Accomodation
   • Christ Church Airbnb
   • The Inn by Mallard Cottage
3. What to Do
   • Exploring the Village
   • Hiking
   • Quidi Vidi Charters
   • Quidi Vidi Village Plantation
4. Where to Eat
   • Mallard Cottage
     • About Mallard Cottage Restaurant
   • The Wharf at Quidi Vidi
   • Sweet Spot
5. Where to Drink
   • Quidi Vidi Brewery
   • The Inne of Olde
     • Happy Travels, Adventurers

History

The name Quidi Vidi is a real mystery. Even locals can’t agree on where the name comes from. Some say it was named by the Portuguese, who called it “quey de video,” meaning, “what a beautiful sight.” Others claim it’s Latin, since…well it sounds like Latin. There is also a local legend that says it’s named after a hotel bar that once sat on the edge of the lake. The owner of said bar was named “Kitty Vitty” and they went about naming the whole area after her. Up until the 1900s, the area was even written as “Kitty Vitty” on local maps.

However you pronounce it (or spell it), everyone can agree that the history of Quidi Vidi revolves around fishing. In the 1600s, fishermen arrived every Spring to fish the rich sources of cod they found in the area. The fishermen liked to set up small fishing huts on the harbour until the cold weather arrived. They found the harbour at Quidi Vidi to be very inhabitable as its inlet enabled it to be sheltered from the harsh winds. Soon, men began to stay behind to face the cold winter. By staying behind there were able to set up in advance for the fishermen who would arrive come the Spring. These “overwinterers” were some of the first to build homes in the area. Many of these immigrants were from southeast Ireland. But instead of returning home in the spring, they remained forever. Calling Quidi Vidi their new home.

Quidi Vidi Battery

In 1762 the French built the Quidi Vidi Battery. The French were constantly at war with the English, and vice versa. They were in a heated battle over control of the rich fishing waters around Newfoundland. When the French finally departed once and for all, the Batteries all became occupied by the local Newfoundland army. Although it was once a National Historical Museum, the Battery closed in 2011.

Accomodation

Christ Church Airbnb

If you can book your stay months and months in advance, there is no better place to stay than at the old Christ Church. The old building has been restored and converted into a stylish Airbnb! The original church was built in 1834. It was designated as a combined church for the Anglicans, Methodists, and Congregationalists who lived in Quidi Vidi. It’s such a wonderful example of the ecclesiastical architecture of the time. The white siding is framed with bright red and green highlights. The stunning bell tower was added in 1890.

The building was sold to the Newfoundland Historic Trust in 1966. Over the years, it served as the town hall, antique store, furniture restorer, and theatrical rehearsal space. It was even used in the first feature film (with sound) made in Canada, called The Viking. It was recently purchased by Aiden and Elizabeth Duff who lovingly renovated to be a magical two-bedroom Airbnb. Is there anything better than staying inside a piece of Newfoundland history? I think not!

$359 / NIGHT

The Inn by Mallard Cottage

If the Christ Church is booked, consider staying in the charming Inn by Mallard Cottage. Run by the same owners as the famous Mallard Cottage restaurant, two original cottages have been renovated into this incredibly chic hotel. The building now contains seven king suites and one common area/meeting room. Each room is decorated with this perfect blend of bright modern colours and vintage Newfoundland cottage vibes.

$279 / NIGHT

What to Do

Exploring the Village

Honestly, my favourite part of visiting Quidi Vidi was simply wandering the harbour and hillsides. Soaking in the atmosphere and brightly coloured houses along the harbour is a journey of discovery. Houses on stilts popping out of the water surprise you around the water’s edge. Colourful fishing huts can be spotted a mile away. And old fishing equipment is strewn about like sprinkles on a cake, haphazard but seemingly a method to the madness

Still to this day, the people in the area make their living on the water fishing for cod. Almost any time of day as you explore the village you’ll see fishermen cleaning their lines, bringing in the catch of the day or repairing their boats for the winter.

Hiking

One of the best ways to get in touch with nature around the village is to go on a hike. The nearby Cuckold’s Cove and Signal Hill Loop is a great introductory trail. It spans 6.9 kilometres and loops up into the hillside and around the Quidi Vidi Lake. It will take about 2-3 hours, depending on your fitness level or how often you stop to take scenic pictures! During the late summer and early fall, there are many berries to be picked along the trail. And in the springtime, it’s a great place to collect wildflowers.

Quidi Vidi Charters

Since Quidi Vidi’s history is steeped in the fishing industry, there is no better way to get acquainted with the waters than on a boat. Where you can try your hand at fishing for yourself! Quidi Vidi Charters takes small groups of people out on the water to teach them the time-old traditions of cod fishing. While out there you’ll also hear charming historical stories and local legends. They run tours from January to September when cod is in season. The tours last about three hours and cost $150 per person. Keep your eyes peeled for whales and seabirds on your journey out on the Atlantic. After bringing in your catch of the day, the guide will even show you how to clean and gut a fish! Plus, you’ll be able to eat your catch right there on the wharf. Nothing could be fresher!

Quidi Vidi Village Plantation

The large yellow trimmed building facing the harbour is the Quidi Vidi Village Plantation. Inside is a collection of local artists who are hard at work on their craft. You can just wander around the halls, watching the amazing creations in progress. But you also can buy some of these awesome handmade creations directly from the artists. It’s a great way to see what local creators are being inspired by here in Newfoundland.

You’ll notice rocks covered in crochet blankets all over the town. They are so adorable to spot along your journey and all the knitting is done right here! As a means to bring visitors into the plantation.

Where to Eat

Mallard Cottage

One of the best ways to start or end your day is with a visit to Mallard Cottage. The historic green and white cottage was built in the 1840s by the Mallard family. They had immigrated from southeast Ireland to make a new life here in Newfoundland. The cottage’s style was typical of the period, inspired by Irish cottages, with low hipped-roof and a large central chimney.

The Mallard’s passed the house down from generation to generation, eventually selling it off in 1950. Because it was so well cared for, it remained in pristine historic condition. Today, it is one of the oldest wooden buildings that remain in North America. It changed hands multiple times over the years and in 2013 was purchased and restored to become a five-star restaurant. This is no doubt the finest restaurant in all of St. John’s, let alone Quidi Vidi.

About Mallard Cottage Restaurant

Walking into Mallard Cottage is what I imagine an old-fashioned inn from the middle ages would have felt like. Furs hang on the walls along with taxidermied moose and deer heads. Plus seems to grow out of the woodwork giving the room a breath of fresh air. The room is dim, lit throughout with candles and chandeliers. The kitchen is open to the room. Guests can sit at the bar to watch the chefs at work. The flames roar in the background, and the sound of excited chatted simmers in the air. Mallard Cottage is open Wednesday to Saturday for dinner, and an exclusive reservation is available for Sunday Brunch.

Their dinner menu consists of seasonal fare sourced in Newfoundland and Labrador. The menu changes along with the months, so there is always something fresh and delicious on the stove. The dinner menu features a Family Style option of $90 per person. It is a multi-course meal and includes one alcoholic drink.

The Family Style meal comprises a myriad of their favourite menu items. It is served “family style” on large platters brought to the table to share amongst your party. I would go with this option every time. We couldn’t decide what we wanted and figured this was the best way to sample a bit of everything. And it was A TON of food! Come hungry!

Their brunch menu is just as impressive! And the $45 prix-fix includes one main, two sides, a non-alcoholic drink and access to their breakfast cake table. You can grab whatever you want from their incredible dessert table, whatever can fit into your cake box!

The Wharf at Quidi Vidi

The old wharf in Quidi Vidi Harbour has been reinvented into an incredible, modern event space! The Wharf is a new pop-up event featuring food vendors, artists and locally brewed Landwash craft beers. It’s a Newfoundlander beer garden by the water. The company is a non-profit helping Stella’s Circle‘s Clean Start program. Since Quidi Vidi is such a small village without much parking, they even offer a free shuttle to help with congestion.

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Sweet Spot

The Sweet Spot is one of the popular spots on the Wharf. They serve delicious ice cream, baked goods, and hot coffee right off the dock. Their elaborate sundaes are the real star of the show. Such a perfect cool treat for a hot day near the water.

Where to Drink

Quidi Vidi Brewery

In a huge green building dominating the harbour is the Quidi Vidi Brewery. This old fish plant was transformed into a local brewery in 1996 by David Fong. Over the years, he has created one of the most beloved breweries all over Newfoundland. They brew over 25 different kinds of beer, including the infamous blue-bottled Iceberg Beer. The Iceberg Beer is made with 20,000-year-old iceberg water, harvested from icebergs off the coast of Newfoundland. Walk into any restaurant, grocery store or liquor store in Newfoundland, and you’ll find their brightly coloured cans.

But if you are looking to sample a bunch of their different brews, then head over to their taproom. You can get a flight sampler made to your preferred taste. Their fantastic beer hall and outdoor patio is brimming with energy. Live music is usually on every Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. There is nothing better to pair your beer with than a gaunty tune played by some local Newfoundlanders.

Although there is no food on offer at the brewery, not to fear! If you’re looking for something to eat, you can head outside to the Quidi Vidi Fish Company truck. This is parked outside the brewery and acts as their defacto restaurant. There are a small set of tables outside where you can eat on the water.

The Inne of Olde

Tucked away on Old Quidi Vidi Road is one of the mainstays of village life, the pub. The Inne of Olde is better to know just as “Linda’s.” Linda is the owner and heart of the establishment. Walking in the door, you are immediately struck with the waves of personality that Linda has decorated the pub with. There are families photos all over the walls, trinkets, keepsakes and of course, seasonal decor. If you are looking to chat with a local, there is no better place than the Inne of Olde. You can find some real characters in here and the later the night gets the more stories they are prone to tell!

Quidi Vidi really makes for the perfect escape and feels like a village out of time, just minutes away from the centre of downtown St. John’s. Hopefully, this guide enlightened you into the incredible things to see and do here. You make a point of visiting on your next trip to the Maritimes.

Happy Travels, Adventurers

The post The Ultimate Quidi Vidi Newfoundland Travel Guide: See, Do & Eat first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

On our more recent trip to Newfoundland, we made it a point to seek out as many lighthouses as we could find along the way! This guide will help you find the perfect hiking location to suit your needs! We’ve compiled a list of the ten best lighthouse hikes in Newfoundland. There are hikes to get you started no matter what your skill or fitness level. Trust me, I’d not been hiking in ages and even I managed to do them all! And it was worth every step of the journey to see these incredible lighthouses up-close and take in all the fantastic scenery.

Table Of Contents

1. History of the Lighthouse
   • How Lighthouses Work
   • Lighthouse Keepers
2. Best Lighthouses in Newfoundland and Labrador
   • Ferryland Lighthouse
   • Twillingate Long Point Lighthouse
   • Cape Bonavista Lighthouse
   • Cape Spear Lighthouse
   • Cape Spear Hike
   • Fort Amherst Lighthouse
   • King Cove Lighthouse
   • Lobster Cove Head Lighthouse
   • Rose Blanche Lighthouse
   • Point Amour Lighthouse
   • Raleigh Trail
   • Fox Point Lighthouse

History of the Lighthouse

The very first known lighthouse was built in Egypt 2,000 years ago! While it took a few more thousand years for lighthouses to arrive in Newfoundland, today they feel like an essential part of the province. From the dawn of life in Newfoundland, the people’s connection to the sea has been of utmost importance. In the 1800s, there was a rise of Europeans migrating to the shores of Newfoundland in the Spring and Summer for fishing opportunities. Their quiet coastlines soon became a cluster of sailing ships.

During foggy and stormy weather, shipwrecks were prevalent. With over 29,000 kilometres of coastline, there was a need for lighthouses to guide boats into shore. It wasn’t just the weather sailors needed to be warry of; the coastline was dotted with dangerous rocky outcrops, hidden inlets, icebergs and rough shores. The first lighthouse to be built in Newfoundland was at Fort Amherst in 1810 to help boats into St. John‘s harbour through the narrows. It was the first of what would go onto be 55 lighthouses erected in Newfoundland over the years.

How Lighthouses Work

Lighthouses implement the Fresnel lens to cast their beacons of light across miles of stormy waters. The Fresnel lens has been called “the invention that saved a million ships.” The lens is made up of a series of prisms mounted onto a large steel frame. Then lenses reflect the flame/light inside, created in Newfoundland by burning seal oil. The refractions create one intense beam of light that can be seen miles away.

Later on, Lighthouses were given huge foghorns to help communicate with ships in the water before modern communication was possible. The cries of the foghorn echoing across the coastline became the background music heard by hundreds of Newfoundlanders over the years.

The first lighthouses in Newfoundland were painted with red and white stripes. These colours were chosen to help mariners see the lighthouse against the sky, even when it was foggy and grey. But the lighthouses located in lush forests or behind rocky cliffsides were painted all white to ensure they can be spotted against this dark forest backdrop.

Lighthouse Keepers

The job of the lighthouse keeper was one of the most important ones and one of the most solitary. Many of these lighthouses were first located in very remote locations. When transport was in its infancy, lighthouse keepers would live on the property instead of in the nearby villages. Sometimes a house would be built adjacent to the lighthouse where the keeper could live with their family. Often the weather conditions near these lighthouses were severe. Resources like food and fuel were limited as they were brought in only during the summer months.

The job of the lighthouse keeper was to ensure the light was always light. Without the light, ships would be lost at sea. Once foghorns were installed they were required to wind up the horns to blow on extremely foggy days. They were also responsible for reporting icebergs in the area and sending out flares if they saw any boats in trouble. Famously, the lighthouse keeper at Cape Race was the first to receive the Titanic’s distress signals. It was 400 miles off the coast of Newfoundland but alas, too far to make it in time to save those doomed passengers.

Best Lighthouses in Newfoundland and Labrador

Ferryland Lighthouse

The Ferryland Lighthouse is a quaint, historic spot along the Coast of Avalon with many stories to tell. One of the most beloved buildings in this small Newfoundland community, the Lighthouse has guided ships into shore since 1870. The grand, bright red Lighthouse looks out over the vast Atlantic Ocean. The sound of crashing waves against the rocks echoing across the hillsides. During certain times of the year, whales can even be spotted right off the coast.

Lighthouse Picnics

But what makes visiting this particular lighthouse so exciting is the Lighthouse Picnics. These incredible picnics are such unique experiences and so popular they even have been featured on Oprah’s Instagram! Picnics MUST be booked in advance as reservations are limited. Once you arrive at the Lighthouse, you will go to the main building to pick up your bespoke meal. You get to choose your favourite sandwich, dessert and drink and it also comes with a delicious salad! Then it’s up to your to find the perfect place nearby to enjoy it for yourself. There is genuinely nothing more perfect than a picnic by the sea. Especially when you don’t need to worry about packing or cooking anything yourself! We sat right in front of the amazing lighthouse to absorb all that majesty it provided.

The Ferryland Lighthouse Hike

The lighthouse is only accessible by hiking along a very flat pathway towards the edge of the coastline. The hike takes about 25-minutes to reach the peak of the Lighthouse. As you begin from the parking lot, take note of the small island to the North. Look closely, and you might spot a herd of sheep grazing on the grass. You might be thinking, “how on earth did those sheep get into that island?!” Local sheep farmers have been bringing their herds over the island for years, as it is free of predators. It is a wonderful place where the sheep can relax all summer. Just another little slice of magic that this hike provides. As you go, you’ll be able to listen to the seabirds flying overhead and keep an eye out for sea creatures bobbing up and down along the shore.

Twillingate Long Point Lighthouse

At the peak of Crow Head‘s in Twillingate, you’ll find the Long Point Lighthouse. The lighthouse sits over 300 feet above sea level, towering over the cliff below. The light flashing over the Atlantic Ocean and Notre Dame Bay. This is the perfect place to come to look for icebergs. Hundreds of icebergs float along this “alley” every year during the springtime. Whales also migrate along this part of the ocean! Twillingate is a great place to visit if you are an avid whale spotter.

The long point lighthouse was built in 1876. Unlike other lighthouses, it was built with a large double-story dwelling for the lighthouse keeper. Today the house is almost more imposing than the lighthouse. The house is used as the interpretive center for visitors. The lighthouse has a unique shape, the square base rises up into an octagonal design. The lower levels are painted red with a white lantern topper. This design resulted in the community nicknaming it, “the baby bottle.”

Nanny Hole and Longpoint Lighthouse Hike

You can descend downwards along the coastal trail from the Lighthouse parking lot. The trail leads you towards “Nanny’s Hole”. This hike and the surrounding views were the most reminiscent of Ireland to me. And seeing as so many of the first Newfoundlanders were Irish immigrants, one can really imagine why they felt at home here. The trail is 2.6 km long, so it’s an easy hike to do if you’re short on time but still want to experience the surrounding area.

Cape Bonavista Lighthouse

The lighthouse which stands on Cape Bonavista is my favourite lighthouse design. Something about those striking red and white stripes that pours down over the entire building makes it look like a giant peppermint candy. Caught in a sea of green grass. There’s something about lighthouses that draws people from near and far. Their presence radiates a sense of safety and solidarity, as though the light itself is a shield against disaster. And Cape Bonavista Lighthouse is no exception. It overlooks Bonavista Bay and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Just across from the lighthouse is the iconic Puffin Colony. The little birds come to this safe harbour every year to roast and nest before their babies are born. The lighthouse itself was built in 1843. Back then, it was just a simple stone tower with a large glass lantern. The lamp was ignited by seal oil, and the lighthouse keeper’s job was to ensure it was always lit. He would purchase the seal oil from the fishermen in nearby villages to keep the lighthouse lantern burning. They were also charged with polishing the glass and recording weather and waves patterns. Today the stone tower has been encapsulated by a large surrounding building. Visitors can go inside the old tower to view the amazing lookout from above.

The lighthouse stands on the point where famous Italian navigator and explorer John Cabot first spotted land on his 1497 transatlantic voyage. When he saw the coastline ahead, he cried, “O Buona Vista!” which in Italian means “Oh happy sight!”

Cape Shore Trail

One of the best ways to see the lighthouse is to hike the Cape Shore Trail. This is a 9.2 km hike along the coastline and cliffside. It leads right to the lighthouse as the culminating point of the walk. This is such an incredible hike to see all different kinds of wildlife along the way. Although you can drive directly to the lighthouse, the hike is much more dramatic. The trail provides spectacular views of Bonavista Bay as you leisurely walk along the rugged coastline. Be sure to stop for a picnic along the trail or at the John Cabot Municipal Park.

Cape Spear Lighthouse

Cape Spear is a historic lighthouse located on the eastern tip of the Avalon Peninsula. Built in 1836, it was the second Lighthouse in Newfoundland and today is the oldest surviving Lighthouse. The colonist decided on this spot for their second Lighthouse. The area was located near the busy and rocky coast which stood near the entrance to St. John’s harbour.

Cape Spear History

Cape Spear was initially named ‘Cabo da Esperança,‘ by the Portuguese. This meant, “cape of hope.” But it was renamed when the French occupied the region, and they translated it to “Cap d’Espoir”. But over the years, the English just called it “Cape Spear,” which was their pronunciation of the French naming convention. Personally, I love the name ‘ Cape Hope’ and that’s how I like to think of the Lighthouse. No doubt, sailors coming in off the seemingly endless Atlantic ocean would have been overcome with emotion upon finally seeing land for the first time. A symbol of hope after their long journey.

To reach the lighthouse, you first need to climb a large set of stairs. This makes the entire experience of reaching the lighthouse all the more dramatic. As it seems to grow in size as you get close and closer. From the top of the hillside, you can descend down the cliffside via a series of boardwalks and wooden stairs. Standing on the deck facing the ocean, you are perched on the Easternmost point in North America. Looking out from here, you can spot Quidi Vidi Lake as well as St. John’s Harbour to the south. Plus an unobstructed view of Notre Dame Bay to the west.

Although the lighthouse is now automated, the lightkeeper’s residence is still on site. It has been restored to how it looked in 1839 when it was first opened. It now serves as a museum and allows the public to enter. They can experience what life for the new colonists and lighthouse keepers would have been like in the early 19th century.

Cape Spear Hike

For hikers, you can start your hike from the Cape Spear Lighthouse along the eastern edge of the coast. This fantastic 8.7 km moderate hike offers scenic views of the Atlantic ocean. If you make it the entire way, you will end at the lookout over Madam Cove.

Fort Amherst Lighthouse

Located on the other side of Signal Hill is a small square, tapered, wooden tower overlooking the Narrows. The Narrows is the only passage from the Atlantic Ocean to St. John’s Harbour, Newfoundland, bordered north and south by steep rock walls. This Lighthouse is situated on old Fort Amherst and therefore goes by the name Fort Amherst Lighthouse. The first Newfoundland British defensive tower was built on this very spot. It was built to protect the land from the invading French armies. Years later, in 1813 after the British forces left North America, the old Battery was transformed into a lighthouse.

The design of the lighthouse went through many iterations over time, and the current one standing is from 1951. A lighthouse was desperately needed in St. John‘s. St. John’s was one of the busiest harbours in Newfoundland. Ships coming in from Europe to fish from the Cod-rich oceans came in droves in the Spring and Summer. But what makes St. John’s harbour so special is that it is a naturally sheltered and ice-free port. So ships could come and go as they please here throughout the year. Sailors coming home would be greeted by this friendly lighthouse on their return shore. Various generations of fishermen find comfort in this lighthouse and it’s a mainstay of the community. Standing at this point, you have a fantastic view of Signal Hill across the Narrows and of St. John’s harbour.

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Deadman’s Bay Path

A wonderful hike that starts (or ends) at Fort Amherst is Deadman’s Bay Path. The hike is fairly difficult at 20km there and back. But you can easily just walk a portion of the trail starting from the entry point at Fort Amherst. The trail features beautiful wildflowers during the spring and summer and berry picking grounds in the later summer and fall. There is even a swimming hole on Southside Hill. There are several high elevations gains at the midpoint on the trail. If you’d prefer to avoid those, you can walk as far as the steep climbs and return. But if you choose to walk the entire path, it should take between 4-5 hours from Fort Amherst to Blackhead and back. If you can make it as far as Deadman’s Bay, you’ll be in for a real treat!

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King Cove Lighthouse

In the early 1800s, a merchant from St. John’s, named James MacBraire, came to King’s Cove to fish the rich waters. During the winter, he would hire skilled sailors to hunt seals. These brought in lots of money for the merchant as their pelts were very valuable. King’s Cove soon became a hub for his large fishery. But by 1893, the community was vying for a lighthouse to help the influx of ships in the area. The sailors desperately needed help managing the breakers and shallow waters around the cove.

King’s Cove Lighthouse was erected in 1893. It was made of cast iron and shipped in from England in pieces. This prefabricated design is the last surviving example of these pre-fab lighthouses in Canada. Unlike some of the other lighthouses in this guide, the King’s Cove lighthouse is an example of a functional structure. No ornamentation or flashy structures, just a simple stand-alone tower. The lighthouse was built on the headland jutting into the bay.

King’s Cove Lighthouse Trail

The King’s Cove Lighthouse trail offers hikers two options. You can take the extremely easy 1.7 km inner loop, which takes you to the lighthouse and back. Or opt for the 3.5 km outer loop, which heads to the lighthouse and then inwards through the seaside meadows. The pathway is actually a former country road that connected the lighthouse to the community. The views along the incredible coastline with remarkable geological sequences make this site a wonderful place to visit.

Lobster Cove Head Lighthouse

On the western edge of Gros Morne National Park stands the Lobster Cove Head Lighthouse. It faces the great Gulf of St. Lawrence and was the guide for boats entering Boone Bay. The lighthouse was built in 1894 to help the sailors on the west side of Newfoundland find their way home.

One of the most interesting parts of a visit to Lobster Cove Head Lighthouse is visiting the lighthouse keeper’s house. It has been restored to look and feel like it has been plucked out of the 1900s. This gives visitors a glimpse at how lighthouse keepers and their families lived in these remote locations. While they were only paid a few hundred dollars a year, their hard work was responsible for keeping so many ships safe.

Another unique aspect of Lobster Cove Head is the signal flags they have on display. These flags started to be used in the 1890s to send messages between ships and the shore. The different flags each represented a specific message. A banner with a “U” would tell the incoming ships, “You are running into danger,” while a “W” meant “I require medical assistance.”

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Lobster Cove Head Trail

Just next to the lighthouse, you’ll find the entrance to Lobster Cove Head trail. This is a 2.1 km trek which is perfect for any skill level. You will wander up and down the coastline into the tuckamore forests and towards the rocky beaches. When you reach the beach, be sure to take a peek into the tide pools. These tide pools contain a myriad of different sea creatures like anemones, fish, crabs and periwinkles.

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Rose Blanche Lighthouse

The most unique lighthouse on the island is the Rose Blanche Lighthouse, located on the southwest corner of Newfoundland. The Rose Blanche Lighthouse was originally named “Roche Blanch,” which means white rock. The name was inspired by the white quartz that is found in this area of Newfoundland. The same white granite quarried in the nearby mines was used to construct the lighthouse itself. It was built in 1873 and unlike the sleek designs of the other lighthouse, the rocks give this one a rustic quality. I love how the rocks around the lighthouse blend in with the lighthouse itself. Making it look like the building simply grew out of the earth.

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Rose Blanche Lighthouse Trail

A very short and sweet trail is located right at the back of Rose Blanche Lighthouse. The trail offers scenic views of the North Atlantic Ocean and the white rocks on the coast. You can wander through the picturesque community of Rose Blanche Harbour Le-Cou. Some parts of the trails are actually old roads. These roads were once used by the first mariners to sail these shores.

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Point Amour Lighthouse

The name “Point Amour” literally means “Love Point.” But shockingly, it was originally named “Pointe-aux-Morts,” or “dead man’s point.” Separating Labrador from Newfoundland is the great Strait of Belle Isle. This deadly waterway is known for rough seas and thick fog. The weather resulting in all these deadly shipwrecks over the years. The famous HMS Raleigh was wrecked just a mile offshore. Eleven crewmen died trying to swim to shore, but they couldn’t see the limestone cliffs in such rough conditions.

Four lighthouses were built along the coast to prevent such deadly accidents. This ensured that large steamships could travel safely between Europe and Newfoundland. The name of the area was changed in the hopes to rebrand the area and communicate the new safety standards put in place by the lighthouses. Of the four lighthouses, Point Amour Lighthouse is the tallest in Atlantic Canada. Reaching 109 feet (33 meters) built in 1858.

When the lighthouses were built, they were called, “Imperial Towers”. Their designs were based on lighthouses in the British Isles. The towers were made of bricks but covered in clapboard to protect against the rough weather. Today you can visit the interior of the lighthouse as the entire building complex is a museum. You can walk the 132 steps to the top of the tower. From here you have a panoramic view of the sea and land surrounding it.

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Raleigh Trail

Raleigh Trail is an easy 1.8 km pathway that runs around the lighthouse. It allows visitors to get close to the beautiful wildflowers and coastline surrounding the area. Walking along the trail, you’ll also pass the site of the washed-up wreckage from the HMS Raleigh and several other ships. The ship parts littering the shore like an iron graveyard.

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Fox Point Lighthouse

Fox Point Lighthouse can be found outside the small town of St. Anthony. Originally the land was used by French fishermen from Brittany. It was “officially” French explorer Jacques Cartier who “discovered” St. Anthony Harbour. But we all know it was occupied by locals long before then. French fishermen would come here for the season and then leave come winter. But eventually, they were pushed out and banned from fishing in favour of the local Newfoundlanders.

In 1850, Dr. Wilfred T. Grenfell arrived and built the St. Anthony Hospital, which grew the community substantially. St. Anthony Harbour was deemed the perfect place to build the first lighthouse in the area in 1906. The first lighthouse was an iron tower with a large lens lantern atop. It was painted with a framework of red and white vertical stripes. Over the years, the design of the lighthouse was altered. Today we can see the 1936 iteration which features a flat-roofed wooden building. But they continued the tradition of painting the sides red and white.

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The building beside the lighthouse, which was originally the lighthouse keeper’s residence, has been turned into an amazing Seafood Restaurant. It opened in 1993 and has been serving tourists and locals ever since. Nothing is better on a cold day than the lighthouse keepers’ seafood chowder!

Fishing Point Park Trails

Fishing Point Park Trails is a wonderful hike, which takes you up, up and away. The 3.7 km loop offers scenic views from the top of St. Anthony’s and is good for all skill levels. There is a large set of stairs to climb at the midpoint on the trail, but just take your time, and the view from the top will be worth the effort! The entire town of St. Anthony’s is spread out around you with the lighthouse you just visited dead center!

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If you are planning a trip to Newfoundland, a visit to one or many of their iconic lighthouses needs to be a part of your adventures! Let me know in the comments which are your favourite lighthouse or any other ones you visited that stole your heart!

Happy Travels, Adventurers

The post Best Lighthouse Hikes in Newfoundland and Labrador: The Ultimate Guide first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

I couldn’t help but wonder why these tiny fishing villages were given such brightly painted exteriors. And yet where I live, and in many big cities around the world, having a brightly painted house would be considered an eyesore! Or at the very least something totally out of the ordinary. I ADORED touring these vibrant Newfoundland houses. I came back home wishing I had the guts to ask my neighbours what they’d think about painting my house teal, golden yellow or best of all, bright red!

Table Of Contents

1. Red Ochre, the Original House Paint
2. Why Are The Houses so Colourful?!
   • Legends and Rumors
3. Heritage Newfoundland Paints
4. Where are the Best Places to see Colours Towns in Newfoundland?
   • #1 St John's
   • #2 Quidi Vidi
   • #3 Bonavista
   • #4 Petty Harbour
   • #5 Twillingate
   • #6 Brigus
   • #7 Dildo
   • #8 Cavendish
   • #9 Change Islands
   • #10 Saint-Pierre and Miquelon

Red Ochre, the Original House Paint

Originally most of the Newfoundland houses were painted in a rich, ochre paint. And it could be made right at home. Only in the early 20th century did mass-produced paints become available. Ochre is a natural clay pigment composed of powdered hematite or iron ore. The colours of the ochre can range from yellow to deep orange or brown. The name “ochre” is from the Greek meaning “pale yellow.” In ancient Greece, ochre clay was very pale due to its mineral make-up. But clay ochre can be found all over Newfoundland as well! Primarily in Fortune Harbour and Ochre Pit Cove.

To make their own paint, fishermen would mix the ochre with fish oil, seal oil and linseed oil. This no doubt stinky mixture would then be applied to the house. Evidence of ochre paint being used on Newfoundland houses dates back to 1610. They discovered its use on buildings along with Cupids Cove Plantation who still have the original paint. Proving its efficacy in these weather conditions.

Why Are The Houses so Colourful?!

There are several theories as to why fishing villages and seaside towns in Newfoundland have such brightly painted houses. The most popular theory is that when the fishermen came home on dark grey and foggy mornings, it was almost impossible to spot their house along the shore. But when they painted their homes or fishing huts with bright colours, it made it easier to spot when coming ashore.

Legends and Rumors

Another theory is that regular house paint would show fading faster in the harsh maritime climate. Normal paint would peel from the salty sea air and the winds and snow would fade the paint away. In many other places around the world where the weather is this harsh, they would have simply used bricks or stone to build their homes. But in Newfoundland, this kind of material was very expensive. Most fishermen made meagre wages and therefore could only afford a wooden house.

But then they discovered they could use the same paint they used on their ships to paint their homes. The ship’s paint was much stronger and could withstand the conditions. Ships’ paint came in brilliant colours so that other boats could see the vessels when on the water. Especially when you were out on foggy or stormy seas, being visible was of the utmost importance. This was also a money-saving technique as the ship’s leftover paint was free! Nothing went to waste.

Other people say that the luminous coloured houses are meant to bring joy to people’s faces when they see them along the hills. When you live in a province where the weather is almost always either windy, rainy or snowy, it’s important to brighten things up where you can!

Whatever the reason, it’s fantastic to see this tradition continuing even today! In fact, in towns like St. John’s, some of the old Victorian homes are still the very same colour as they were initially painted. Even after hundreds of years ago. It is an unwritten rule that if you own one of these historic homes you must keep it painted in a traditional colour. To help retain the patchwork quilt which makes up the colourful streets.

Heritage Newfoundland Paints

The importance of the multi-coloured houses is such that there is even a Historic Colours of Newfoundland paint collection. One day, the owner of Templeton’s paint shop, whose store has been open in St. John’s since 1863, found a collection of decades-old paint chips hidden away in the basement. This was a treasure trove of history. He worked with the Heritage Newfoundland council to get the colours developed as an exclusive paint line. The paints were all given with the most charming names. Mussels in the Corner, Little Heart’s Ease, Christmas Syrup, Nanny-Goat, May Bush Blue and Sea Spray Green are just a few of my favourites.

The names were carefully selected to evoke the unique aspects that make Newfoundland so special. The deep golden yellow paint named “Dory Buff” was used on little boats for years. It was the best colour to paint the smaller boats to ensure they remained visible even in rough conditions. A mossy green paint called “Ferryland Downs” is named after the Colony of Avalon and the mossy excavation site located nearby.

Looking at all these paint colours, you’ll notice there are “traditional” hues and “Jelly Bean Pallette.” In the 1960s, paint could be tinted from its original colours. This resulted in brighter, more pastel hues which have become the iconic colour palette in St. John’s Jellybean Row. There is a slight controversy about these colours as they aren’t as traditional as the older ones. Still, there is no escaping their photographic popularity.

Where are the Best Places to see Colours Towns in Newfoundland?

#1 St John’s

Jellybean Row is the name affectionately given to the rows and rows of brightly coloured townhouses that line the steep streets of St. John’s. One of the best parts of visiting St. John’s is admiring the fantastic eras of different architecture. St. John’s was the first fishing outpost for European fishermen. Therefore the original buildings in St. John’s were made for the working fishermen. These consisted of simple shreds, storage shacks, wooden piers and rudimentary homes for the fishermen.

St. John’s is often compared to San Francisco due to the steep incline of the street compounded with the brightly coloured Victorian homes. But it’s not just the colours you need to admire, but also the styles, accents and ornamentations. So many houses have beautiful stained glass windows sparkling against the sunlight as you pass by. Although the name is “Jellybean Row” the multicoloured house can be found all over the city. They are not just found in one dedicated “row.” But if you’re looking for the best place to explore to see the most extensive collection of colourful houses, then head over to the historic Georgetown neighbourhood. Here you can wander to your heart’s content and see street after street of rainbow-hued houses.

#2 Quidi Vidi

Just 10 minutes by car from the centre of St. John’s is the small fishing village of Quidi Vidi. Quidi Vidi was time and time again the most recommended destination when I told people I was visiting Newfoundland. Quidi Vidi was established around 1600 when fishermen arrived each Spring to fish for the cod rich in this area. Most of them would depart back to Europe come the fall in anticipation of Newfoundland’s frigid winters. But after a few years, there was the need to have a few fishermen stay the winter. They would take care of sourcing timber and fuel for the following Spring when the other fishermen returned. Small fishing huts were built to house these men, and eventually, they started to call the area home. They expanded from huts to houses and created their own little community.

Despite being just 10 minutes from St. John’s, Quidi Vidi has preserved a quaint and peaceful atmosphere. There is very little parking which means they can better control the number of people in the village. The fishing hunts have grown slightly over the years, but they retain the brightly painted historic colours that make this place so charming.

#3 Bonavista

Bonavista is most famous being the spot where Italian explorer John Cabot (Giovanni Caboto) first stepped foot. He arrived here in June 1497. When he spotted land from his ship, he was reported to cry out, “O Buon Vista!” In Italian, this means “Oh, Happy Sight!” And what a sight to see is Bonavista even today. Although Cabot saw the land without the beautiful houses that now cover the landscape, the beauty of this place is uncomparable. The town of Bonavista is one of the oldest villages, not only in Newfoundland but in North America! The cape was developed in the 1500s after the arrival of Cabot. The area around Bonavista was rich in fish and seals. It soon became of the most important towns in Newfoundland.

They built up the village along the rocky mantle, not along the shore. Since the seas are so rough here, the water would frequently wash houses along the coast away. Building the town along the elevated cape meant there was more space to expand and build large homes. Most of these homes were built by English settlers who were fish merchants. Eventually, they would build a break wall to prevent flooding and houses soon crept down the hillside. Today the city is known as being one of the dynamic and vibrant communities in Newfoundland.

#4 Petty Harbour

Just 16 minutes from St. John’s, you can escape the big city and find yourself in the centre of this small, picturesque fishing village. Petty Harbour is home to only 970 people who live here year-round. The first settlers established a fishing village here in the 1600s. And while a few modern conveniences pop up, so many elements of this village feel like stepping back in time.

Walking along the dock, you can still see the original fishing nets and wooden crab traps fishermen still use today. Scenic rolling green hills are the backdrop to the town’s wonderfully colourful houses. I loved how the houses almost look right down on the harbour below. It’s just such a charming part of the province.

#5 Twillingate

Located on the northeast corner of Newfoundland, Twillingate is one of the most remote yet incredible places to visit. It is best known as the spot to view whales, dolphins and harp seals throughout the year. But most iconic of all are the icebergs that pass by the town. You can literally watch the bergs float by as you walk along the rugged coastline. The reason the icebergs pass this way is because of the ocean corridor which runs down from Greenland, called “Iceberg Alley.”

During the 1800s, Twillingate was one of the busiest seaports in all of northern Newfoundland. It was bursting with ships coming into the post from all over the world. The ships would bring in supplies and carry away freshly caught cod. But today, it is just a quiet fishing village. It is only during the early summer months when the icebergs come to call that visitor’s flood into town. Throughout the rest of the year, this sleepy fishing village is the perfect place to come to get away from it all! Whenever you arrive, you can admire the quaint and colourful houses which cover the shores. And creep up over the coastline.

#6 Brigus

Brigus is a small fishing community located in Conception Bay, less than an hour from St. John’s. The town is known as a picture-perfect photographer’s paradise. Say that three times fast! Over the years, many an “Arctic Heroe” called this village home. The narrow lanes and winding streets are so reminiscent of English, Irish, and Welsh villages. The styles of the homes are also reflective of their immigrant owners. So many of the homes along their central streets have been preserved for the ages. They each retain a superb historic charm and, of course, those iconic brightly coloured exteriors. You can see the great 200-year-old church whose bright green roof always makes an appearance as you first drive into town. Plus peruse the site of the old Vindicator newspaper office and the old Orange Lodge built in 1860!

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#7 Dildo

Perhaps no surprise to anyone; it is the odd name of this town that draws people to its shores. But what they find when they arrive in ‘Dildo‘ is one of the most delightful fishing villages! Complete with some of the most amazingly painted boats and houses dotted along the coast. The original meaning of the word “Dildo” referred to the phallus-shaped pin stuck in the edging of a rowboat. This part acts as a pivot for the oar, a key component! Although many of us might think of something much different, this is the real meaning which inspired the naming of the town.

The town really rose to fame when the talk show host Jimmy Kimmel featured it on his television show. His team even made a trip out to Newfoundland in 2019 when Jimmy was named honorary mayor. After the town was touched by Hollywood, it was even given its own Hollywood-style sign. Jimmy Kimmel donated the sign to the community, and today it sits on the hillside overlooking this adorable town. And while the Jimmy Kimmel show might have put it on the map, it’s the splashy houses and lovable people who make it such a great place to explore. One of the greatest places to see and stay is at the historic George House Heritage B & B. This amazing house is painted such stunning colours, framed against the backdrop of the hillside looking over all of Dildo.

#8 Cavendish

Located an hour and a half from St. John’s are three of the most famous sheds in all of Canada. The three beach huts are painted in alternating red, yellow, and blue colours. They sit alone out near the shore, facing Cavendish Bay. While it might seem like a long way to go, Cavendish is just 20 minutes up the road from our previous stop in Dildo. These huts have been portrayed on postcards, paintings and more despite being so off-the-beaten-path. The sheds can be found just off Trinity Road South 80 along Beach Road.

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#9 Change Islands

The Change Islands are located between Notre Dame Bay and the Labrador Sea. Far off on the northeast coast of the island of Newfoundland. To get here, you must take a ferry from the mainland over to the islands. But it’s a short hour-long commute. Although there are only 300 permanent residents, they have kept the beauty and the historic nature of this community alive over the years. The town was established in the early 1700s by European settlers. But it wasn’t until the 1900s when the village would become a hub for schooner fleets working the Labrador fishery.

This influx of boats and fishermen resulted in the development of the brightly coloured houses you see along the coast today. As we mentioned previously, ochre was the original colour of the fishing hunt in Newfoundland. And here on the change islands, you’ll find many original structures painted in that historic colour!

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#10 Saint-Pierre and Miquelon

Ok, this last one is perhaps the most exciting but “technically” not a part of Newfoundland. Saint-Pierre and Miquelon is just an hour south of Newfoundland by ferry in the Gulf of St. Lawrence. The French commune is considered a part of Europe and not even a part of Canada! But as it’s just off the coast of Newfoundland many visitors make this journey as a part of their maritime adventure. Saint-Pierre and Miquelon even use the euro despite being just a hop, skip and jump from the mainland of Newfoundland. The small island has had a violent history with the French and English settlers. Each side waging war over the years for control over the land. Finally, in 1816 the French took control, and it would remain a French colony ever since.

But despite all this violence, or perhaps in spite of it, the houses on Saint-Pierre and Miquelon are some of the most vibrant in all of Newfoundland. It’s like looking at a paint store chip wall with splotches of colours dotted the hillsides. When you are on such a remote island in the middle of the winter, these colourful houses are just what you need to bring in a warm smile to your face.

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I hope these brightly coloured houses and villages of Newfoundland inspire you to make a trip out to this fantastic part of Canada. And maybe when you come home, you’ll be motivated to give your own home a new coat of paint!

Happy Travels, Adventurers!