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The Ultimate Trans-Canada Highway Itinerary

The Ultimate Trans-Canada Highway Itinerary

 

  1. St John’s, Newfoundland
  2. Gros Morne National Park, Newfoundland
  3. Cape Breton, Nova Scotia
  4. Bay of Fundy & Hartland, New Brunswick
  5. Quebec City, Quebec
  6. Ottawa, Ontario
  7. Thunder Bay, Ontario
  8. Drumheller, Alberta
  9. Lake Louise, Alberta
  10. Yoho National Park, British Columbia
  11. Vancouver, British Columbia

 

 

 

 

Located on the coast in Newfoundland, St. John’s is a historical city along the Trans-Canada Highway that you can’t miss. Be sure to stop by and experience the attractions and cuisine that make this city uniquely fun.

Signal Hill in St. John’s Newfoundland, Canada by Jarmo Piironen | Shutterstock.com

 

St John’s, Newfoundland

Located on the coast in Newfoundland, St. John’s is a historical city along the Trans-Canada Highway that you can’t miss. Be sure to stop by and experience the attractions and cuisine that make this city uniquely fun.

 

Things to Do

St. John’s is filled with plenty of things to do, no matter what your interests are. Whether you want to stay inside or head out and experience nature, St. John’s has something for you to do.

Botanical Garden – Experience nature at the Botanical Garden located at Memorial University. This place is filled with beautiful flowers and plants that will make your experience unforgettable.

East Coast Trail – If you enjoy spending time outside, be sure to plan a hike along the East Coast Trail. Along the way, you’ll get to enjoy the wildlife and fauna that’s indigenous to Newfoundland, as well as a coastal view that you won’t want to miss.

Newfoundland Museum at The Rooms – Do you want to experience the history and culture of Newfoundland? Be sure to visit the Newfoundland Museum at The Rooms. This museum has plenty of exhibits that will teach you so much about the history of Newfoundland.

Water Street –  Take a stroll and shop the charming boutiques along water street, the oldest commercial street in North America, with most shops open seven days a week.

Places to Eat

Not only does St. John’s have a variety of attractions that will make your stay unforgettable, this magnificent city is also filled with many restaurants that will make your taste buds tingle.

Raymonds Restaurant – This restaurant, located off Water Street in St. John’s, comes highly recommended by many visitors. Not only is the food delicious, Raymonds has also been commended for have a great atmosphere and staff.

Chafe’s Landing Seafood Eatery – If you want to taste delicious seafood, then you’ll need to visit this restaurant. The menu is filled with mouthwatering seafood that will leave you extremely satisfied.

Che’s Fish & Chips – Another great place to eat in St. John’s is Che’s Fish & Chips. This restaurant has tasty food at a reasonable price, making it the perfect place to dine.

 

While traveling the Trans-Canada Highway, be sure to schedule a visit to the Gros Morne National Park into your itinerary. This national park is filled with natural wonders that will amaze you.

Woody Point Lighthouse, Gros Morne National Park, Newfoundland by Jim Parkin | Shutterstock.com

 

Gros Morne National Park, Newfoundland

While traveling the Trans-Canada Highway, be sure to schedule a visit to the Gros Morne National Park into your itinerary. This national park is filled with natural wonders that will amaze you.

 

Natural Attractions

Gros Morne National Park can boast of many natural attractions that draw visitors from around the country. This national park has mountains, rivers, and beaches that you can explore during your stay. It is also filled with a variety of wildlife, both on land and in the sea. If you’re lucky, you might even be able to catch sight of a whale during the summer season.

Things to Do

Gros Morne National Park has plenty of activities that will be the highlight of your Trans-Canada trip. During the summer, you can participate in such activities as hiking, kayaking, and swimming. Additionally, you can take a boat tour that will give you a great view of the area. In the winter, you can have fun in the snow with skiing, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing.

Places to Stay

If you visit Gros Morne National Park, you’ll need someplace to stay. Thankfully, there are many sleeping accommodations located in and around this beautiful national park. If you enjoy roughing it, you can choose from a variety of campsites, many of which include flushing toilets, kitchen shelters, and sometimes even wireless internet. If you would prefer more comfortable accommodations, you can reserve a room at any of the hotels located in the communities surrounding Gros Morne.

 

Cape Breton offers magnificent coastal views with spectacular cliffs and stunning beaches, as well as the opportunity for a game of golf and to enjoy world-renowned fresh lobster and crab dishes.

Cabot Trail Highway, Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, Canada by Vadim.Petrov | Shutterstock.com

Cape Breton, Nova Scotia

Things to Do

The Cabot Trail – ranked #1 among US and Canadian island destinations by Travel + Leisure magazine, and best road trip by Lonely Planet, is well worth making a day trip off the Trans-Canada highway.  Take in spectacular views as you take in the beautiul solitude of the Cape Breton highlands, through coastal villages, past lighthouses, beaches and more.

Fort Louisbourg National Historical site – About an hour east of the highway you will find a fully restored French fort where you can experience life in the mid 1700’s. This is another day trip you will need to plan ahead for. Visit for FREE in 2017 when you get your free Discovery Pass!

 

Places to Eat

You can’t drive through Cape Breton without stopping for a taste of their delicious fresh lobster and crab dishes. There are many jewels to be found, but this is a selection you will not want to miss.

Coastal Waters Restaurant & Pub – Located on the  Cabot Trail,  they are known for their Ringer Burger, fresh Crab Dip and  Cinnamon Roll Skillet. Find good service, delicious, fresh, homemade food, and a comfortable setting for the whole family..

Charlene’s Bayside Restaurant and Cafe – Home to Charlene’s Famous Seafood Chowder, known to locals as the best chowder on the island, and quite possibly the best in the world. It is a dining experience enjoyed by locals and tourists alike located in Whycocomagh, right on the Trans-Canada highway.

Black Spoon Bistro – Located in North Sydney, the Black Spoon Bistro is a surprising find in a small town. You will find everything from fresh seafood to options for vegetarians and more.

New Brunswick is a beautiful province offering some great destinations along the Trans-Canada Highway. If you get the chance, you can also take a detour off the Trans-Canada highway to visit Prince Edward Island.

Hopewell Rocks Provincial Park, New Brunswick, Canada By Andreas Prott | Shutterstock.com

Fundy National Park & Hartland, New Brunswick

 

New Brunswick is a beautiful province offering some great destinations  along the Trans-Canada Highway.  If you get the chance, you can also take a detour off the Trans-Canada highway to visit Prince Edward Island.

Things to Do

Bay of Fundy – Just southeast of the Trans-Canada highway from Moncton, you can drive a loop that takes you into Hopewell Rocks Park and down though Fundy National Park ending up near Sussex, skipping a portion of the highway.  Not only does the Bay of Fundy provide a beautiful coastline view, it also provides adventure for any daring visitors. You won’t want to miss low tide at the Hopewell Rocks in Hopewell Rocks Park, a world-class destination and home to the world’s highest tide which comes with some unique and pretty incredible sights.

Hartland Covered Bridge – This prominent landmark has helped make the town of Hartland famous. This bridge is renowned for being the longest covered bridge in North America, making it the perfect attraction to visit.

Museums – In addition to being the home of the largest covered bridge, Hartland is filled with museums and galleries that preserve the area’s culture and history. From the Chocolate Museum to Science East, you’ll love learning about this wonderful town.

Place to Eat

Hartland is also home to many restaurants that will quickly become favourites. Whether you’re stopping for a quick lunch or planning to stay for a few days, these restaurants will fill you up.

Williams Mercantile – This unique restaurant is home to delicious food at a great price. The menu is filled with food that is sure to satisfy any craving you have, all at a price you can’t ignore!

Jeremiah’s – Another great restaurant located in Hartland is Jeremiah’s. This restaurant is perfect for grabbing a quick meal, especially if you’re craving a burger and some fries.  Be sure to stop by and experience Jeremiah’s at some point during your stay in Hartland.

Covered Bridge Restaurant & Bar – Named after the famous Covered Bridge in Hartland, this restaurant is a part of the local golf club. Stop on by to grab a quick bite after spending a day on the course.

 

If you’re looking for a great place to stop, as well as a place to learn about history, then Quebec City should definitely be on your Trans-Canada Highway itinerary. This city is home to many historical buildings and parks, as well as great places to eat.Chateau Frontenac in the Old Quebec City, Quebec By almanino | Shutterstock.com

 

Quebec City, Quebec

 

If you’re looking for a great place to stop, as well as a place to learn about history, then Quebec City should definitely be on your Trans-Canada Highway itinerary. This city is home to many historical buildings and parks, as well as great places to eat.

Things to Do

When you take a trip to Quebec City, you’re sure to find something that you’ll enjoy doing. This city is filled with many historical sites and attractions that will fill your days with fun. Here are just a few things you’ll want to check out.

Old Quebec – Are you ready to learn more about the history behind Quebec? Then you need to schedule a visit to Old Quebec into your travel itinerary. Filled with monuments, churches, and beautiful masonry, you’ll get a chance to experience what Quebec was like years ago.

Montmorency Falls Park – The Montmorency Falls Park is home to waterfalls that are taller than Niagara Falls.  You can get close to the falls for a  magnificent view by taking advantage fo the cable car or suspended bridge, as well as lookout points around the park.

Plains of Abraham – The Plains of Abraham is home to the historical Battlefields Park. Not only is this a wonderful park to enjoy, it’s also the perfect place to learn about Quebec history with the different exhibitions hosted here.

Place to Eat

This historical city is filled with plenty of places to dine. You can find a wide variety of restaurants that serve your favorite cuisine.

iX pour Bistro – This bistro is renowned for having delectable food complete with a cozy atmosphere. If you know that you’ll be stopping by during your stay in Quebec, you can always guarantee a table by making a reservation.

Casa Calzone – Do you want to dine in style while staying in Quebec? Casa Calzone is the place for you. You’ll enjoy the exquisite cuisine that’s coupled with elegant décor and friendly staff.

Le Chic Shack – You definitely need to experience a meal at this amazing burger joint. Le Chic Shack has delicious food that you won’t find anywhere else in the city.

 

Located in Ontario, Ottawa is a great place to stop when travelling the Trans-Canada Highway. This city is sure to have something for everyone in the family, from fun sites and attractions to delicious restaurants.

Parliament Hill, Ottawa, Canada By Maurizio De Mattei | Shutterstock.com

 

Ottawa, Ontario

 

Located in Ontario, Ottawa is a great place to stop when travelling the Trans-Canada Highway. This city is sure to have something for everyone in the family, from fun sites and attractions to delicious restaurants.

Things to Do

As our capital, Ottawa is a beautiful city that’s filled with many things to do. From shopping at a large market to exploring nature, you’re sure to find something that you’ll enjoy.

Rideau Canal – You can experience the beauty of nature in Ottawa when you add a trip to the Rideau Canal into your itinerary. The Rideau is filled with many places to fish and kayak, as well as museums to learn about the wildlife.

ByWard Market – If you want to experience Ottawa while doing a little bit of shopping, be sure to stop by the ByWard Market. This historical area is filled with shops and boutiques that you’ll enjoy visiting.

Parliament Hill –   Tour the Parliament buildings, stop at the Peace Flame for a photo op, wander around the grounds and see memorials including my personal favourite one – the famous five.  In the summer you can watch the Changing of the Guard. Nearby is The National Gallery of Canada which is a must for anyone with a love of art.

Canadian Museum of History – Experience the history of this beautiful area at the Canadian Museum of History. This museum has many exhibits that will inspire awe as you learn about this nation’s history.

Place to Eat

When you pass through Ottawa during your Trans-Canada Highway trip, be sure to take advantage of the many dining experiences.

Vittoria Trattoria  –  If you are on the look-out for accessible Italian fine-dining, this is the restaurant for you. Their extensive menu has something for everyone, and you won’t be disappointed! You’re bound to love your dining experience at this location.

The Manx Pub – Enjoy dining in when you eat at The Manx Pub. The excellent service offered by this restaurant, combined with the ambiance and delectable food, make this pub a necessary stop while in Ottawa.

Aroma Meze – As suggested by its name, this restaurant is filled with the wonderful aroma of delicious food. Enjoy relaxing while the friendly staff serve you your choice meal, giving you a dining experience you won’t forget.

 

While in Ottawa you may want to hop across the bridge back into Quebec to visit the Gatineau area where you will find several more great attractions including the Canadian Museum of History, the Canadian Children’s Museum, and the Canadian Museum of Nature.

 

Thunder Bay is a fun city that’s located in Ontario along the Trans-Canada Highway. Located on Lake Superior, this city combines city living with beautiful scenery, making it a great place to visit.

Kakabeka Falls, Thunder Bay, Canada By SebStock | Shutterstock.com

Thunder Bay, Ontario

 

Thunder Bay is a fun city that’s located in Ontario along the Trans-Canada Highway. Located on Lake Superior, this city combines city living with beautiful scenery, making it a great place to visit.

Things to Do

You will definitely enjoy your stay in Thunder Bay when you take advantage of the many sites and attractions. From a scenic lookout to a historical museum, you’ll have plenty to keep you busy in this city. For more ideas for what to do in Thunder Bay, check out my post about must-see attractions in Thunder Bay.

Mount McKay Scenic Lookout – If you want to get a good look at Thunder Bay and the surrounding area, be sure to visit this convenient lookout. Located on Mt. McKay, this lookout allows you to get a good view of the area, including Lake Superior.

Thunder Bay Museum – Have fun learning the history of Thunder Bay at this fun museum. The building that houses the exhibits is a part of history itself since it used to be the police station and court house.

Botanical Conservatory – Now you can experience nature without taking long hikes when you visit the Botanical Conservatory in Thunder Bay. This conservatory is home to a large tropical house, allowing you to view exotic flowers and plants from all over.

Places to Eat

Finding a great place to eat is easy when you visit Thunder Bay. From fine dining to charming bistros, you’re sure to find a restaurant that has your favorite foods.

The Silver Birch – If you want to dine in style, take a trip to The Silver Birch. This restaurant has it all, from delicious food to charming décor.

The Sovereign – Enjoy a delicious meal while sipping on some ale at this tasty restaurant in Thunder Bay. With a menu filled with variety, you’ll get to try a dish that is sure to fill you up.

Polish Bistro – Do you want to try something new while in Thunder Bay? Then you’ll want to dine at Polish Bistro, a restaurant that serves delicious Polish dishes that are sure to satisfy your craving.

 

As the Trans-Canada Highway passes through Alberta, you’ll need to add Drumheller to your travel itinerary. This city is home to the famous Hoodoos, as well as the world’s largest dinosaur. In addition to the many attractions, you can also find great places to eat.

Drumheller Hoodoos in Alberta, Canada By Jeremy Klager | Shutterstock.com

Drumheller, Alberta

 

As the Trans-Canada Highway passes through Alberta, you’ll need to add Drumheller to your travel itinerary. This city is home to the famous Hoodoos, as well as the world’s largest dinosaur. In addition to the many attractions, you can also find great places to eat.

Things to Do

Drumheller is home to many attractions that are unique to this area. Plan to stay a few days so that you can experience all of the fun things to do.

Drumheller Hoodoos – If you’re visiting Drumheller, be sure to check out the amazing Hoodoos. These amazing pillars take millions of years to form, making it even more amazing that the Badlands have so many of them.

Atlas Coal Mine National Historic Site – Ready to have fun learning about history in Drumheller? Visit the Atlas Coal Mine National Historic Site. You’ll enjoy everything about this site, from the underground tunnel to the rickety train tracks.

World’s Largest Dinosaur – The world’s largest dinosaur is located in Drumheller, Alberta. Not only can you observe this tall dinosaur from the outside, you can also have the unique experience of climbing the dinosaur and viewing the surrounding area from inside its mouth!

Place to Eat

You’ll definitely enjoy your dining experience in Drumheller. There’s a restaurant for everybody, including fine dining and historical saloons.

Bernie and the Boys – Enjoy a quick yet delicious meal when you visit Bernie and the Boys. The menu is filled with delicious sandwiches and burgers that will leave you satisfyingly full.

Old Grouch – Despite its name, you won’t leave this cozy café grouchy. The Old Grouch is a great place to eat, with delicious food filling the menu. If you’re ready for a surprisingly good dining experience, then this is the restaurant for you.

Last Chance Saloon – If you want to have a charming dining experience, take a trip to the Last Chance Saloon. The second you pull up to the restaurant, you’ll be transported back in history, giving you an experience you won’t forget.

 

Lake Louise is located in Banff National Park in Alberta. This beautiful lake is the perfect stop along the Trans-Canada Highway, especially if you love hiking, camping, and more. In addition to the fun nature experiences, Lake Louise is home to many restaurants that you’ll enjoy eating at.

Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada by Zhukova Valentyna | Shutterstock.com

 

Lake Louise, Alberta

 

Lake Louise is located in Banff National Park in Alberta. This beautiful lake is the perfect stop along the Trans-Canada Highway, especially if you love hiking, camping, and more. In addition to the fun nature experiences, Lake Louise is home to many restaurants that you’ll enjoy eating at.

Things to Do

Lake Louise is the perfect place to get in tune with your nature-loving side. There are many experiences available to you in and around the lake.

Hiking – If you stop by Lake Louise, you can’t miss out on some fun hiking. Lake Louise and the surrounding Banff National Park are full of hiking trails that vary in difficulty. This makes it perfect for a beginner hiker to an experienced on.

Skiing – If you are able to visit Lake Louise during the cooler months, you can take advantage of the wonderful skiing opportunities available. The entire family will love getting a chance to experience the hills and mountains in the area.

Places to Eat

Lake Louise is also home to many restaurants that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. From a charming tea house to a hotel restaurant, you’ll find a place that’s perfect for dining in.

Post Hotel & Spa – The restaurant located at the Post Hotel & Spa is a great place to eat, regardless if you’re a guest or just eating in. You’ll get to choose from a variety of food, all of which is cooked to your preference.

Plain of Six Glaciers Tea House – If you want a light yet satisfying meal, head in to the Plain of Six Glaciers Tea House. You’ll love visiting this tea house in between your many activities at Lake Louise.

The Walliser Stube – Experience a taste of Germany at this restaurant located in Lake Louise. The ethnic food combined with the elegant atmosphere will make the Walliser Stube one of your favorite places to dine.

 

 As you near the end to your Trans-Canada Highway trip, you’ll want to continue the fun with a stop at Yoho National Park. This national park is filled with many natural treasures, making it a great place to add to your itinerary. From finding fossils at Burgess Shale to enjoying the view at Takakkaw Falls, Yoho National Park is a great place to stay during your Trans-Canada Highway trip.

Lake O’Hara, Yoho National Park, Canadian Rockies By Tim Stirling | Shutterstock.com

Yoho National Park, British Columbia

 

As you near the end to your Trans-Canada Highway trip, you’ll want to continue the fun with a stop at Yoho National Park. This national park is filled with many natural treasures, making it a great place to add to your itinerary. From finding fossils at Burgess Shale to enjoying the view at Takakkaw Falls, Yoho National Park is a great place to stay during your Trans-Canada Highway trip.

 

Landmarks

Yoho National Park, located in British Columbia, is filled with natural wonders that you’ll love experiencing.  In addition to different plants and animals indigenous to the area, you can also step back in time by visiting the Burgess Shale. This landmark is home to many fossils that date back millions of years ago.

Things to Do

If you visit Yoho National Park, your days will be filled with many fun activities. Throughout the summer and autumn months, you can take advantage of guided hikes around the area. You can also take initiative and go backpacking along the scenic trails. During the winter and spring, you can have some fun in the snow by going cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and even waterfall ice climbing! You can also visit different points of interest during any season, including the Spiral Tunnels and Takakkaw Falls.

Places to Stay

There’s so much to do at Yoho National Park that you’ll need to spend a few nights there. If you’re planning an extended stay, you can camp out at any of the four campgrounds located in the area. Each campground comes with accommodations that make your stay easier, some of which even have toilets and showers available.

 

Vancouver is a great place to visit along the Trans-Canada Highway. Not only is this city filled with historical sites, it also has a modern side that you’re sure to enjoy.

Stanley Park, Vancouver, B.C. by Andrea Izzotti | Shutterstock.com

Vancouver, British Columbia

 

Vancouver is a great place to visit along the Trans-Canada Highway. Not only is this city filled with historical sites, it also has a modern side that you’re sure to enjoy.

Things to Do

There are plenty of things to do in Vancouver. Regardless if you feel more comfortable in nature or if you prefer an urban atmosphere, Vancouver has something for you to do.

Stanley Park – Even with all of the city buildings and landscape in Vancouver, you can still experience nature when you visit Stanley Park. This park is considered a national historic site, so Vancouver has preserved it for citizens and visitors to enjoy.

Granville Island – Another treasure buried in the Vancouver area is Granville Island. This island is filled with many things to do, including a trip to the public market or a boat ride around the island.

Vancouver Aquarium – Anytime you visit the area, you definitely need to add a visit to the Vancouver Aquarium to your itinerary. This aquarium is huge, with many different exhibits and activities available for guests. You’ll love visiting this aquarium so much, you might come back the next day to explore more.

Place to Eat

If you’re looking for a great place to eat, look no further than the city of Vancouver. This area has great dining options available for you, no matter what type of food you enjoy.

Calabash Bistro – If you’re craving delicious food coupled with fun entertainment, then stop by Calabash Bistro for an experience that will satisfy your craving. Not only does this restaurant serve authentic food, it also has entertainment not often found in restaurants.

DDMAU – Do you want delicious food in a relaxing atmosphere? Then stop by DDMAU for any of your meals. The owners of this restaurant aim to combine traditional and modern flavors so that you have the culinary experience of a lifetime.

Salmon n’ Bannock – This restaurant is perfect if you’re looking for an authentic Native American dining experience featuring a fabulous atmosphere and great food. The Salmon n’ Bannock is sure to provide you with delicious food served by friendly staff.

 

The Ultimate Trans-Canada Highway Itinerary

Micheline

Sunday 14th of February 2021

I would love to visit Newfoundland and hike through Gros Morne National Park. I'm so close just have to make this happen soon.

Stephanie LaPlante

Saturday 24th of June 2017

I would absolutely love to travel across Canada someday. We have such a beautiful country to explore.

Jonnie

Friday 23rd of June 2017

What a gorgeous country we live in! I have driven across Canada twice and there is just so much to see, I would gladly do the trip every year for vacation if my family would agree.

KD

Friday 23rd of June 2017

There are so many places here that I would love to visit! I've been to the Bay of Fundy and Hartland, as well as old Quebec. The other places are new to me.

One place to consider on the itinerary is Temiskaming Shores! The original writer of the Hardy Boys, Leslie Macfarlane, was from Haileybury (and the first several stories are based there!) Lake Timiskaming is one of the deepest freshwater lakes in the world. Devil's Rock is a beautiful lookout...you can hike to the top or see it from the water below. Cobalt has lots of history as the silver capital of Canada.

Elizabeth Matthiesen

Thursday 22nd of June 2017

I have been to many of these places but would still love to do this whole trip in one go. These photos are marvellous and go to show what a very beautiful and diverse country we live in.