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Known as the home of craft beer in Canada, Fredericton is a very small city that feels like a big city. It is rich in history and culture and is a unique riverside gem. Home to the longest covered bridge in the world (the Kissing Bridge) and over 88 kilometers of hiking trails, there is little wonder why it is called a city at the edge of nature.
Simply put, Fredericton is a beautiful place. Its quiet atmosphere and scenic environment makes it a great location for those looking to get away from the bustle of city life.
Take a look through this hand-picked guide and let us know which things make it to your Fredericton bucket list.
1. Start Your Brewery Tour at Trailway
Get some fresh air and exercise while you visit some local craft breweries, starting with TrailWay Brewing. If you love the taste of freshly brewed beer, you should start your trip with a tour of Trailway Brewing Company. They produce high-quality, robust American-style ales and their tasting rooms are open every day From 12 noon. Continue on with stops at Picaroons, and Graystone Brewing.
2. See something at the Playhouse
The Fredericton Playhouse hosts local theatre acts by several talents. If you have a flair for the performing arts, be sure to pay a visit. They also have lots of kid-friendly shows.
3. Harvest Jazz & Blues Festival
Visiting Fredericton in the fall? Get funky with some of the world’s best jazz, blues, and world music over six days in historic downtown. The Harvest Jazz and Blues Festival features hundreds of world class performers and artists performing on over a dozen stages.
4. Go Back in Time at King’s Landing
Before there was Game of Thrones, there was Kings Landing, New Brunswick. It’s a living history museum with original buildings from the period of 1820-1920. Make friends with the “locals” and maybe even try your hand at the forge. Enjoy a tour of this 300-acre historical museum in the heart of Fredericton. With over 70,000 artifacts and a grand 19th century village filled with costumed characters, historic buildings and farm animals, you will be transported into the past and learn about the rich history of the 19th century.
5. Explore the Fredericton Trails
6. Boyce Farmers Market
Open every Saturday morning, the Boyce Farmer’s Market in Fredericton is a bright and lively spot where you can shop for local produce, crafts, sweets, and maybe catch a band. With over 200 local vendors offering fresh products, Boyce farmers market is a go-to location for anyone visiting Fredericton. Apart from the fresh produce, there are craft vendors and an on-site restaurant.
7. Fencibles Theatre
8. Visit the Fredericton Botanic Garden
9. Take a Stroll Through Odell Park
10. The CAP
Looking to enjoy some urban, Fredericton night-life? Head down to The CAP. This multi-room venue offers regular upbeat live music as well as DJ sets and fresh, craft beer and cocktails. It also now includes an on-site nano-brewery, daytime record retail and beer to go, all accompanied by plenty of seating on sunny or shaded patios.
11. Cultural Market
12. Under the Stars film series
Take a walk down memory lane and relive the days of drive-in-movies at Barracks Square. Enjoy outdoor movies on a lawn chair every weekend on this National Historic Site. You can buy snacks and drinks on site.
13. Learn Something New at Science East
Plan a visit to the most active public science and technology educational organization in the country. Working hard to educate students, teachers, parents and businesses, this Non-profit organization focuses on inquiry-based learning. They host several workshops and other fun activities and are open to the public.
14. HaliMac Axe Throwing
15. Wolastoq Boat Tour
Offering both private and public boat tours, visitors get to enjoy sailing along the St. John River. Each tour is kid-friendly so this is something you can do with your family. There are snacks available on the boat as well as an open bar.
16. Northside Creators Market
17. Unplugged Board Game Cafe
The very first board game café in New Brunswick is open to the public. They have hundreds of board games that are fit for families, kids and individuals. They also have a vast menu filled with several delicacies. This is a fun place to be.
18. Garrison Night Market
Open from 4.30 pm to 9 pm on Thursdays, the Garrison Night Market is a fun place to shop for local and international handmade products. You will find several stunning pieces of art, craft, clothing, design, farm produce, local brews, spirits and ciders as well as delicious food.
19. Disc Golf
Head over to Fredericton Disc Golf, a sport and recreation venue where you can enjoy a fun game of disc golf. Although similar to golf, disc golf requires players to throw a disc into a basket. Disc golf is a fun game perfect for all ages and you do not have to pay any fees to play.
20. Tubing on the Nashwaak River
Plan an outdoor adventure on Fredericton’s lazy river. Head over to Nashwaak Tubing and Kayak Rentals for equipment hire and enjoy a therapeutic and relaxing adventure. Be sure to call ahead and make reservations.
21. Tour Briggs & Little
If you love to knit, this location is a must-visit. Briggs & Little is the oldest woolen mill in Canada. You can go on a self-guided tour and learn about the impressive processes that go into the production of yarn. They also have a yarn shop.
22. Crabbe Mountain
Experience the thrilling ski slopes of Crabbe Mountain at Fredericton. If you are a beginner or have kids who would like to learn how to ski, there is a ski school here for you. There are about 34 trails offering night skiing, snowmaking and lots of fun winter events.
23. Capital City Paintball
Everybody loves paintballing! Visit Capital City Paintball and enjoy a fun time with your family and friends. This place is open every day from April to November and is available to kids 10 years and older.
24. Haunted Hike
Hosted by Calithumpians, the Haunted Hike is a thrilling adventure all visitors should experience. Hosted at night, you will be led by costumed guides who will tell spine-chilling Fredericton ghost stories. Look out for some chilling surprises as you walk along the barely-lit streets.
25. TreeGo
26. Wabanaki Tree Spirit Tour
The Wabanaki Tree Spirit Tour is aimed at preserving and advancing indigenous values. With a series of consistent cultural experiences and interactions, visitors can embark on a medicine walk and learn about the different plant and tree species in the area.
27. Beaverbrook Art Gallery
28. New Brunswick Highland Games
This festival is held annually to celebrate the Scottish/Celtic culture. If you are of Scottish decent or would like to learn about the Celtic culture while having a fun time, the New Brunswick Highland Games is for you. It’s Fredericton’s annual Celtic infusion of music, bagpipes, drumming, highland dance, traditional Scottish athletics, Scottish foods, whiskies, genealogy, crafts and more.
When is the best time to Visit Fredericton?
The best time to visit Fredericton, NB depends on the type of activities and experiences you are looking for.
In the summer months (June-August), the weather is generally warm and it’s a great time to explore the outdoors and enjoy the many parks, gardens, and hiking trails in the area. The summer season is also when many festivals and events take place, such as the Harvest Jazz & Blues Festival, the Fredericton Playhouse, and the Fredericton Exhibition.
In the fall (September-November) the leaves change color and it’s an excellent time to take in the natural beauty of the area. The fall season is also a great time to visit the farmers market and sample local produce.
In winter (December-February) the temperatures can get quite cold and it can snow, but it’s a great time to enjoy the winter sports, such as skiing, snowshoeing, and skating. The city also has an indoor public pool and an indoor skating rink.
In spring (March-May) the weather starts to get warmer and flowers start to bloom, it’s a great time for bird watching, and it’s also a good time to visit before the peak tourist season.
Overall, any season has something to offer in Fredericton, so it depends on what you’re interested in experiencing.
How many days should you spend in Fredericton?
How many days you should spend in Fredericton depends on your interests and the type of activities you want to do. The city has a variety of things to see and do, including historical sites, natural landscapes, cultural events, and outdoor activities.
If you’re interested in history, you can spend a day visiting the Fredericton Region Museum, the Officers’ Square, and the Legislative Assembly Building. If you’re interested in nature, you can spend a day exploring the Odell Park, the Mactaquac Provincial Park, and the Kings Landing Historical Settlement.
If you’re interested in the cultural scene, you can spend a day visiting the Beaverbrook Art Gallery, the Fredericton Playhouse, and the Fredericton Arts Alliance.
If you’re interested in outdoor activities, you can spend a day enjoying the city’s many parks, gardens, and hiking trails.
As a general rule of thumb, I would recommend at least 2-3 days to explore the city and its surroundings, but you could easily spend more time if you want to take your time and explore more in-depth.
Is Fredericton worth visiting?
Fredericton is a great destination for those looking for a mix of history, nature, and culture. It’s a charming small city with a lot to offer, and it’s definitely worth visiting.
Where to Stay in Fredericton
Radisson Kingswood Hotel & Suites: Situated in the Kingswood Entertainment District, the hotel offers a range of accommodations, including standard guest rooms, suites, and extended stay options. All rooms come equipped with modern amenities like flat-screen TVs, complimentary Wi-Fi, and coffee makers. Some rooms also feature additional amenities such as kitchenettes, fireplaces, and separate living areas.
Carriage House Inn: This 1875 heritage house in Fredericton, New Brunswick, features a communal terrace and garden area. Rooms are uniquely furnished and feature antique-inspired décor. Guest rooms offer satellite TV and free Wi-Fi at the Carriage House Inn. A seating area and free toiletries are provided. An all-inclusive gourmet hot breakfast is available daily at the Inn Carriage House.
Chateau Fredericton: features. comfortable accommodations, modern amenities, and possibly a range of on-site facilities such as a fitness center, restaurant, bar, and meeting rooms. It has an indoor heated saltwater pool with a waterslide and a 24-hour on-site convenience store.
By the River B&B: less than 1 km from Old Government House, By The River B&B features accommodation with a private beach area, free private parking, a garden and a terrace. Spa facilities and a bicycle rental service are available for guests. Boasting family rooms, this property also provides guests with a picnic area.
Best Western Plus Fredericton Hotel: Located just off the Fredericton Bypass, this hotel is a 10-minute drive from downtown Fredericton. It serves a free hot breakfast every morning and features an indoor pool and hot tub.
Book Your Trip to New Brunswick
Book Your Flight
Find a cheap flight by using Expedia. It’s one of my favourite search engines because it allows you to search for and compare flights from multiple airlines.
Book Your Accommodations
You can book your hotel with Booking.com as they have the most comprehensive inventory so they are best for booking a hotel. If you want to stay in a vacation rental or cottage in New Brunswick, use VRBO to find the perfect place for the whole family.
Book Your Car Rental
New Brunswick has many small towns and it’s best to have a vehicle at your disposal. Be sure to book your car rental with Discover Cars early because they often sell out in summer.
Book Your Travel Insurance
While New Brunswick is generally a safe province, you never know when something could happen. Be prepared with travel insurance from SafetyWing.
Wow.. Beautiful and very nice.. Places. I wish to be there.