10 Things to do: Fredericton Northside Edition
The Northside of Fredericton is a hidden gem, continuously evolving in the areas of outdoor activities, tasty craft brew taprooms and unique options for both dining and shopping. This section of the Capital City is connected to the rest of Fredericton by some of the best bike trails in town and is easily accessed from downtown via the Bill Thorpe Walking Bridge.
So, in the spirit of helping you discover Fredericton’s northside, here’s our list of 10 things to do:
1. Get started on your #FredTapTrail Map
Sip your way through the Capital City with the #FredTapTrail! The #FredTapTrail is a passport-style map that allows craft beer and craft cider fans to choose their own taproom adventure. Every time you grab a pint or flight at one of the taprooms listed on the map, you will receive a stamp, enabling you to collect exclusive #FredTapTrail swag. Crafty connoisseurs who collect a stamp from all 11 participating taprooms with be entered into the grand prize draw. Get started on the northside at the Picaroons Roundhouse, Trailway BrewingCo., York County Cider, Mama’s Brew Pub, or Half Cut Brewery.
2. Bowl at THE DROME
Speaking of craft beer, Trailway has their very own bowling alley, located across the street. Once known as the Bowl-a-Drome, it was one of the oldest bowling facilities in the country before it was purchased by Trailway in 2018. Trailway did a major re-brand and renovation but stayed true to the alley’s history, as a candlepin bowling alley. Think retro, with a modern flair, complete with tasty craft beer on tap and a patio for post-bowling bevvy’s.
3. Shop Handmade, Local & Unique
The northside is home to interesting shops you will not find elsewhere! 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. Whimsy is filled with handcrafted jewelry, trinkets, bath and body items - you name it! U Beautiful Creature is another charming and unique gift boutique containing handmade wares by Maritime crafters and artisans, ensuring you will find something special with each visit. Go to My Closet Consignment for a treasure trove of ladies’ brand name clothing, handbags, shoes, boots and jewelry. During the summer months The Eco Market at the Ville, is the place to go for sustainable and eco-conscious grocery, health & beauty and handcrafted items. Experience the North Side Creators Market, which is open Saturday’s and Sunday's, to find locally produced art, food and everything in between!
4. Dining like no Other
Hungry for some delicious fare? Fredericton’s northside has some great restos you need to check out! The Schnitzel Parlour has a variety of same-day fresh German and European cuisine, including homemade bread, spätzle and, of course, schnitzel. Hana’s Ethiopian Food is the place to go for veggie (and Gluten Free!) friendly foods like Exotically spiced green beans, split peas AS WELL as slow-simmered meats, all best enjoyed with their Enjera (sourdough flatbread). Indigenous-owned Wolastoq Wharf knows how to take full advantage of the Atlantic Ocean’s bounty with their fine seafood creations; don’t skip out on their bannock bread!
5. FORE!
With three of the best golf courses in New Brunswick within putting range of the Capital City, Fredericton is your go-to golf destination! Fredericton’s newest signature course, West Hills Golf is an 18-hole, championship golf course and “shot-maker’s dream.” Although the course is located in a residential area on Fredericton’s northside, the parkland design integrates natural elements such as rock quarry ponds, brooks and elevated rock ridgelines, providing golfers with challenging shot elements. West Hills also has a practice facility with real target greens, practice chipping and putting greens on-site.
6. Bike the Loop!
Tips from a local: Rent a bike from Radical Edge or Second Nature Outdoors, bike across the Bill Thorpe Walking Bridge to the northside and keep going! You are now on the scenic Nashwaak Trail. Eventually you will enter Marysville, a National Historic Site known for being one of Canada's last intact 19th-century mill towns. Cross the Bridge Street bridge and the Marysville Cotton Mill will be straight ahead – swing a right! Eventually you will see the connection to the Gibson trail that runs along the Nashwaak River. We recommend taking a detour off the trail to take in the beautiful river, catch a glimpse of a bald eagle or, if you’re lucky, find the perfect spot to take a dip! Continue on the Gibson Trail, past Hyla Park and you will arrive at the Bill Thorpe once again – this is the perfect opportunity to stop by the Picaroons Roundhouse for tasty easts, great views and craft beer.
Need help navigating your way? Check the Fredericton Trails Map for guidance.
7. Get in Touch with Nature
The City of Fredericton is surrounded by nature just waiting to be explored! Many are familiar with our local parks and extensive trail system but do you know about the 2 nature preserves on the city’s northside?
Hyla Park Nature Preserve: This preserve is home to the rare-to-the-area gray tree frog, awarding it the the distinction of being Canada’s first amphibian park! Wander off the Gibson Trail to spy frogs, beavers and an interesting array of birds.
Ferris Street Forest and Wetland Nature Preserve: Walking trails throughout this preserve’s diverse forest and wetland ecosystem make for a great outdoor excursion, especially for those looking to witness local wildlife.
8. Berry Good Times Ahead
Depending on the time of year, you can pick your very own fresh berries and fruit. Sunset U-Pick is an urban farm offering strawberries in June, as July begins, raspberries are ready and by August blueberries are waiting for you! Don’t want to get your hands dirty? Our local markets are the place to go for fresh, locally grown goodies.
9. Park it
There are 3 parks on the northside, all worth exploring. Killarney Lake Park is a Fredericton Favorite! This freshwater lake has a lovely sandy beach with 20 km of tree-lined walking trails around the perimeter. Pack your bag for the day, this lake is the perfect retreat for a day of swimming, relaxing and enjoying nature. The perfect picnic destination is Carleton Park, a waterfront green with stellar sunrise and sunset views. The Nashwaak Stream Nature Park is located along the Saint John River and includes a short but sweet 2.1km walking trail through the unique ecosystem.
10. Sweet Treats & Java
By now, you might be thinking about dessert! If you’re looking to satisfy your sweet tooth, we have 2 easy choices for you: The Shake Shed Freddy for Instagram worthy, gourmet milkshakes; for cupcake addicts and lovers of rich and decadent treats, visit Buttercream Dreams. The Purrfect Cup is cat café where you can lounge amongst adorable furry friends while sipping a locally roasted, Whitney Co. coffee.
We hope you are inspired to #ExploreFredericton’s northside! This list is just a sample of the many things to do in the city! Stop by our Visitor Information Centre or check out our website for more ideas for takin-in the Capital City.
Stay tuned for 10+ things to do in Uptown Fredericton OR check out our 10 things to do Within a 10 Minute Walk of Downtown Fredericton!
Did we miss your favourite Northside thing to do? Let us know in the comments!
