#ExploreFredericton
Fredericton - It’s Time to Explore Again
Welcome back Atlantic Canada! The time has arrived, where we are free to explore beyond our borders again. Fredericton is your perfect getaway destination. Step outside, take-in the natural wonders, spend the afternoon on a patio enjoying the local flavours or sipping your favourite craft brew. Many of our local restaurants, shops and attractions have re-opened their doors and are ready to welcome you.
It’s time to plan your adventure! For those looking for inspiration, we have compiled the Top 20 Things to Explore this Summer in Fredericton. Join the Calithumpians theatre troupe on an other-worldly Haunted Hike of the downtown, bask in the beauty of the growth forest in Odell Park as you embark on a medicine walk with Wabanaki Tree Spirit Tours, or try your hand at swinging from the trees Tarzan style with TreeGo Mactaquac; whatever your vacation style, Fredericton is ready for you!
With the majestic Saint John River flowing through it, tree-lined streets and breath-taking historic architecture, the capital city is more than a pretty face. Fredericton is a vibrant city where culture, fine local dining and tasty craft brews, history and adventure are waiting for you! How will you #ExploreFredericton?
Markets - A Fredericton Tradition
A trip to Fredericton isn’t complete without sampling the wide array of ethnic cuisine, shopping fresh local food or perusing handcrafted treasures at one of our local markets. The Fredericton Boyce Farmer’s Market has been a favorite Saturday morning tradition for nearly 70 years, setting the precedent for markets in Fredericton. A unique offering of international food and local delicacies is available at The Cultural Market, now located downtown and conveniently open 6 days a week! A similar vibe can be found at the newest market in town, Food Market at the Ex with its selection of International food infused local vendors, located outside the Fredericton Exhibition Centre. For those looking for local, sustainable and eco-conscious grocery, health and beauty and handcrafted items, The Eco Market at The Ville Cooperative is the place to go during summer months in Fredericton.
Sip your way Through the City
It only makes sense that Atlantic Canada’s Brewing Capital has its very own taproom trail! The Fredericton Taproom Trail is a passport-style map showcasing 11 local taprooms. Crafty connoisseurs can collect stamps from each participating taproom, acquire exclusive swag and be entered in a draw for a grand prize! Patios are open, the weather is warm and local breweries have released their special summertime brews; this is the perfect time to pick up a #FredTapTrail map and start stampin.’ Don’t forget to snap some pics and share your #FredTapTrail brews and patio views with us!
Dine in Style
The perfect pairing with a cold one is tasty eats! Continue your patio tour at one of our local restaurants, each with its own flair for good food. Another great option for open-air dining is the recently launched, Fredericton al fresco, featuring new picnic and bistro-style tables, set up near local restaurants. These European-inspired seating areas will also include live art installations and an intimate setting for live local music. MoCo Downtown has taken full advantage of this new way to dine in Fredericton with Bella MoCo, a walk-up takeout window with panzerottis, paninis, snacks and gelato on the menu; the two downtown al fresco dining areas are in perfect proximity for enjoying a tasty take-out treat! Mill Town Roasters have also jumped on the bandwagon with their new outdoor dining set-up, featuring the comfort of your own back yard, downtown views and the smell of locally roasted coffee.
New in 2020!
The Delta Fredericton not only launched their new restaurant Stmr.36 BBQ and Social, they also announced the opening of The Delta Driveway Drive-in in June, featuring a drive-in dinner and a classic movie on the big screen; a throwback to the good old days but better! When Graystone Brewing re-opened in June with a completely revamped set-up; bubbles can reserve their own space, choosing from a list of indoor and outdoor vibes, including one of their newly built “pods;” an innovative way to make socially distancing more interesting.
Nature at its Best
Looking for inspiration on how to #ExploreFredericton via the outdoors? Take note from local adventure enthusiasts, who know best when it comes to exploring the natural landscape Fredericton and the surrounding area has to offer. Second Nature Outdoors is a great first stop for those who want to get to know our beloved Wolastoq a little better. Rent a canoe, kayak or stand-up paddleboard or book a Paddle & Pint tour so you can try your feet at stand-ip paddle boarding followed by a pint of local craft beer (drink specials included!).
The Islands: A Fredericton Hidden Gem
Fredericton Tourism has partnered with BBC Travel Show host and adventure travel influencer Mike Corey on a 5-part video series about what he recommends to see, eat and do in his hometown of Fredericton. The most recent episode of Mike’s video series explores the Saint John River. Also known as the Wolastoq River, these waterways are rich with history, overflowing with stories and now exists as the epicenter of outdoor adventure in Fredericton.
In this video, Mike shares his own story about the Saint John Rivers’ greatest hidden gem: the islands. We all know the journey to discovery is half the fun, so join Mike as he and his friends paddle through the maze of islands in the majestic river, through the canopy of trees along its banks, all while taking in the wildlife and natural wonders abound. You can explore what Mike describes as “Fredericton’s jungle” by renting a stand-up paddleboard, canoe or kayak from Second Nature Outdoors and, with permission, floating over to Ross or Hartt Island.
Trailblazin’
In Mike’s first episode he highlights the trail system and the local gems that can be found along the way. Mike has travelled the world, 70 countries to be exact, and STILL looks forward to coming back to his hometown in Fredericton, with the trail system being at the top of this list! Find out which trails he likes best and why in this video.
Art is the Heartbeat
We haven’t forgotten about lovers of all thing’s art and craft – Fredericton is a cultural capital with many galleries, artisan shops and public art to explore. In the downtown area alone there are 15, (soon to be 16) works of art to discover, with many being accessible via our riverfront trail system, making it easy to curate your own art tour. We have compiled a list of The Most Instagrammable Places in Fredericton to make your self-guided tour even more fun (Hint: Public art makes a great backdrop!). For those with a taste for handmade, Sacred Arts is a new artisan shop located at St. Mary's First Nation where you will find an eclectic collection of handcrafted and locally designed items including traditional dreamcatchers, beadwork, paintings, clothing and more.
Hands-on History
Where else can you experience a time-travel get away? Kings Landing is an open-air museum, situated on over 300 acres – there’s no time like the present to discover the past! Plan an afternoon exploring the many exhibits or live demonstrations, chat with the costumed villagers, visit the old-fashioned general store and snap some great shots for your Instagram account! You don’t need to be a history buff to appreciate the scenic beauty found at this National Historic Site.
Home to the world famous 42-pound legend, The Coleman Frog, The Fredericton Region Museum is another local gem for getting in touch with history. The museum is located inside the one-time Officers' Quarters, the history of the City of Fredericton and surrounding area is interpreted in an engaging manner in several exhibition spaces, including exhibitions on the Indigenous, Acadian and Loyalist inhabitants of the area, and more. If you happen to be in the Historic Garrison District, keep an eye out for our iconic Ceremonial Guard, who will be standing sentry at City Hall daily from 10am-6pm.
Whatever Floats your Boat
A great way to relax is by letting someone else take the wheel and show you the way. Hubert Paul and his family, owners of Wolastoq Tour Boat & Charter, know the river and the many fascinating moments in history the waterway has witnessed. Not only are they conveniently docked at Regent Street Wharf downtown, Wolastoq Tour Boat & Charter offer both 90-minute tours and private bookings for a scenic cruise on the majestic Wolastoq River.
Casting Call
There are countless streams, creeks and brooks feeding into the Lower Saint John River, making fishing in Fredericton some of the best around! With 25 years of fishing across North America under his belt, professional angler Ben Woo has let us know why Fredericton ranks as a must stop for fishing fanatics. For those looking for the knowledgeable guidance of professional fishing guides, you can master your fly-fishing game with Saint Johnny Sox.
It’s a Splash
For those who prefer to wander on land, outdoor enthusiast Emma Chevarie has shared a list of her favorite waterfalls in the Fredericton Region. Hike the trails of the rushing Split Rock Falls, climb amongst the high and mighty Fall Brook Falls, or the take in the serene pools of Welsford Falls; no matter your mood or experience level, there is a waterfall day trip waiting for you. You can take her adventure recommendations or use either Waterfalls of NB – Google Maps or Waterfalls of New Brunswick website to choose your own adventure.
Sometimes, it’s the View that Counts
The Capital region may not be known for its high peaks but that doesn’t mean we don’t have access to fun hikes with great views. We have taken full advantage of learning the slopes from locals who know where to climb. Only 10 kilometers from the Westmorland Street Bridge, a 350-million-year-old volcano can be found! Currie’s Mountain is an easy climb, with an interesting history that is perfect for kids and those looking for a view of the Saint John River Valley.
A local with the love for outdoors has shared with us her experience of taking on the Mount Douglas Bald Trail climb and Bald Mountain Adventure Trail; both excursions are family friendly and conveniently located just outside of Fredericton. Be inspired to bear witness to beautiful views over Welsford and the Nerepis valley with “Get climbing – and soak up those views!” Don’t forget your binoculars!
FORE!
Fredericton is your go-to golf destination! With three of the best golf courses in New Brunswick within putting range of the Capital City, how could you not be enticed to take a golf vacation? Kingswood Golf, West Hills Golf and the Mactaquac Golf Course are the leaders of the pack as far as golfing in Fredericton goes, each with challenging courses that feature natural elements such as waterfalls, meandering brooks and marshlands. Kick back and relax after a day on the green with one of the golf getaway packages offered by local accommodations. The Mactaquac Golf Stay & Play package offered by Delta Fredericton has everything 2 people will need for the weekend with the option to rest your feet at the Dip Pool Bar & Grill at the end of the day.
Stay & Play
Discover summertime in Fredericton by exploring our trails, heritage river, historic charm and Maritime hospitality, all best enjoyed when you can soak in the experience with a night (or 2!) in the Capital City. Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway with your girlfriends, a vacation for the whole family, a golf getaway with your buddies or a romantic weekend with your main squeeze, there is a package deal waiting for you! Information on over 20 curated experiences from hotels and local B&Bs can now be found here.
These suggestions for how you can #ExploreFredericton are just the tip of the iceberg! Find more inspiration visit the Fredericton Tourism website, Facebook page, Twitter and Instagram account. While you are here, drop into our Visitor Information Centre for some other great suggestions to help you explore our city!
We can wait to hear what makes your #ExploreFredericton list!
