15 Best Small Towns in Canada, it boasts an abundance of breathtaking natural scenery, from the serene Great Lakes to the awe-inspiring Canadian Rockies. The country is home to numerous national parks, verdant islands, and lengthy highways that are perfect for embarking on a wilderness road trip. Amidst the dramatic and stunning Canadian landscape, one can also find charming small towns that are a melting pot of cultures and histories.
These towns are home to Francophone communities with deep roots in the first French settlers, diverse British colonists, and the country’s Aboriginal people. They offer a glimpse into the past, with gold rush towns that still retain their original charm and grand railway hotels that stand tall amidst the forests, reminiscent of European castles. Exploring these small towns is a true delight and adds to the joy of discovering this vast and beautiful country.
Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan
Surprisingly named Moose Jaw presents itself as a captivating town, boasting numerous historic structures and activities to engage in. Notably, the Moose Jaw Tunnels serve as an underground labyrinth, connecting buildings constructed in 1908 for a steam system that was ultimately abandoned. During the early 20th century, Chinese immigrants sought refuge within these tunnels, evading persecution. Additionally, rumors suggest that Al Capone utilized these subterranean spaces for gambling and conducting business.
Furthermore, visitors can partake in guided tours of the town aboard charming historic trolley buses. And after indulging in such enriching experiences, what could be more delightful than unwinding in the soothing embrace of the local hot springs?
Churchill, Manitoba is one of the 15 Best Small Towns in Canada
Churchill offers a unique combination of natural wonders including polar bears, beluga whales, and the mesmerizing northern lights. The exploration of this area by Danish explorers in 1619 was met with great challenges, as only three out of the 64 expedition members managed to return to Denmark.
However, the true history of Churchill began in 1717 when the British Hudson’s Bay Company established the first permanent settlement here. The remnants of the Anglo-French conflict over North America can still be seen today, exemplified by the remarkable 250-year-old Prince of Wales Fort.
In addition to its historical significance, Churchill also boasts attractions such as the Eskimo Museum, where visitors can delve into the rich cultural heritage of the region. Moreover, a must-do experience in Churchill is embarking on a Polar Bear Tour, as this town proudly holds the title of the ‘Polar Bear Capital of the World’.
Summerside, Prince Edward Island
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Summerside was incorporated as a town in 1877 and its name perfectly reflects the town’s nature. Despite being relatively small, it is the second largest city in Prince Edward Island and offers plenty of activities. The tree-lined streets with their elegant heritage homes exude history, and the Wyatt Historic House Museum is a great place to learn about Summerside’s past. For a taste of seaside charm, head to the harborfront boardwalk where you can indulge in food, drinks, shopping, and even catch a play at the Harbourfront Theatre.
Dawson City, Yukon
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Dawson City, a genuine gold rush town, was established in 1897 at a First Nations Camp due to the Klondike Gold Rush. It rapidly expanded into a bustling city with a population of over 40,000 individuals, all driven by their desire for gold. Although smaller in size now, the historic Dawson City continues to attract visitors.
The charming 19th century center of town, known as the ‘Dawson Historical Complex,’ encompasses the essence of the past. Interestingly, any new constructions must adhere to visual standards that maintain the picturesque appearance of the 19th century. Strangely enough, the Downtown Hotel is renowned for its ‘Sourtoe Cocktail,’ which includes an actual mummified human toe!
Neepawa, Manitoba
Neepawa, which translates to ‘Land of Plenty’ in Cree, was established in 1877 and is renowned as ‘Manitoba’s Most Beautiful Town’. The town boasts a rich history and is home to several notable landmarks, including the Margaret Laurence Home and the Roxy Theatre Neepawa, which was constructed in 1906 and is still used for various events and screenings. Interestingly, Neepawa is also known as the ‘Lily Capital of the World’, with over 2,000 varieties of lilies grown in the area. The town’s annual Lily Festival, held in July, attracts around 12,000 visitors each year.
Goderich, Ontario
Established in 1828 and christened after the British Prime Minister of that era, this town takes great pride in its visual appeal, as evidenced by its slogan “Canada’s Prettiest Town” and its numerous accolades in various categories of the Communities in Bloom contest.
Although there is no record of any reigning monarch having visited, it is rumored that Queen Elizabeth II once declared it the most beautiful town in Canada. While history buffs may enjoy visiting the 1839 Huron Historic Gaol and the Huron County Museum, nature enthusiasts will be drawn to the town’s three stunning beaches.
Banff, Alberta
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Banff, a small town that emerged from the discovery of hot springs by railway workers in 1883, has now become a bustling commercial hub. The Cave and Basin Hot Springs, which were the first hot springs in the town and were once a spa resort, are now closed. However, visitors can still enjoy soaking in mineral-rich waters at Banff Upper Hot Springs and other locations.
After a long hike at nearby Lake Minnewanka, a dip in the hot springs might be a good idea. For those seeking luxury accommodations, the Banff Springs Hotel, a 19th-century grand railway hotel, is a must-visit. The hotel is more like a chateau than a hotel and is truly magnificent.
Brigus, Newfoundland and Labrador
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This quaint fishing village has a rich history that dates back to approximately 1612. During this time, the first governor of Newfoundland Colony, John Guy, sold half of the bay to the Spracklin family. Over the years, the village has gained recognition for its breathtaking scenery and abundance of captivating landmarks.
Among these notable sites are the Convent of Mercy, a remarkable 19th-century structure constructed for Irish nuns, St. George’s Anglican Church, and the Brigus Tunnel. The tunnel, carved through solid rock, serves as a passage to a deep-water harbor.
Another prominent feature of the village is Hawthorne Lodge, the former residence of Captain Robert Bartlett, a renowned Arctic explorer. It is worth noting that this village has produced a significant number of Arctic explorers, and Captain Bartlett is one of them.
St Andrews By-the-Sea, New Brunswick
Saint Andrews, known officially as such, earned its moniker ‘By-the-Sea’ due to its proximity to the ocean. Established in 1783 by United Empire Loyalists, individuals who sought refuge during or after the American Revolution, the historic sections of the town have been remarkably preserved. A prime illustration of this preservation is the Ross Memorial Museum, a splendid residence from the 19th century adorned with exquisite furniture.
Additionally, the immaculate All Saints Anglican Church stands as a testament to the town’s heritage. Many structures in Saint Andrews boast vibrant and colorful murals, adding to the visual appeal. Apart from its architectural wonders, the opportunity to observe whales in their natural habitat is a major attraction in this coastal community.
Baie-Saint-Paul, Quebec
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Surprisingly, one notable achievement of this Quebecois town is that it served as the birthplace of Cirque du Soleil in 1984. However, another less enjoyable distinction is that Baie-Saint-Paul gained recognition when Doctor Philippe-Louis-François Badelard named a disease he was researching after the town in the 1770s.
Nevertheless, beyond these facts, the town’s charming atmosphere is enhanced by its narrow streets adorned with boutiques and art galleries. Additionally, historical landmarks such as the 1714 Église de Saint-Pierre et Saint-Paul contribute to the overall beauty of this place.
Peggy’s Cove, Nova Scotia
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Peggy’s Cove, a small settlement situated on the Atlantic Coast, has a rich history of being a fishing community. However, after the conclusion of World War II, the town has shifted its focus towards tourism rather than fishing. Today, it is renowned for its stunning coastal scenery that attracts visitors from all over the world.
Established in 1811, the town was built by six families of German descent who were granted permission to settle in the area. Peggy’s Cove is adorned with charming wooden fishing sheds that are emblematic of the town’s character. The town’s rocky coastline is sparsely populated, and the vast Atlantic Ocean stretches out as far as the eye can see, making Peggy’s Cove a picturesque fishing village that looks like it’s straight out of a postcard.
Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario[SEE MAP]
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Niagara-on-the-Lake, also known as Butlersburg and West Niagara in the past, has earned the nickname ‘The Loveliest Town in Canada’ for good reason. Its charming colonial buildings and the magnificent Niagara Falls contribute to its undeniable beauty. During the late 18th century, it became a safe haven for pro-Loyalists who sought refuge from the aftermath of the American Revolution.
This picturesque town boasts several notable landmarks, including the Old Court House Theater, which dates back to the 1840s. Additionally, it is home to the oldest Catholic church in Ontario, St. Vincent de Paul, established in 1826, and the oldest Anglican church, St. Mark’s Church, founded in 1791. From April to November, Niagara-on-the-Lake hosts the Shaw Festival, a renowned theatrical event that showcases plays by George Bernard Shaw and other esteemed playwrights.
Tobermory, Ontario
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Tobermory, which shares its name with a delightful Scottish town, has earned the title of ‘the freshwater Scuba capital of the world’. The nearby Fathom Five National Marine Park boasts an impressive collection of 22 shipwrecks waiting to be explored.
In addition to the shipwrecks, Fathom Five is home to numerous captivating rock formations. One such attraction is Flowerpot Island, named after the two flowerpot-shaped stacks found along its coastline. This island also offers camping facilities and hiking trails for visitors to enjoy.
For those who prefer a less daring experience, there are glass-bottomed boat tours available. These tours provide an opportunity to catch a glimpse of the shipwrecks without having to dive into the water.
Yarmouth, Nova Scotia
In the mid 17th century, French Acadians established the first settlement on the southwestern tip of the Nova Scotia peninsula, which they named Tebouque. However, settlers from New England arrived during the Seven Years War and named a nearby location Yarmouth, after their hometown in Massachusetts.
Presently, Yarmouth is renowned for its Gothic Victorian architecture, which is emblematic of the Maritimes region in Canada. Additionally, it is widely recognized for its abundant lobster population, boasting the highest lobster catch in Canada annually. Visitors can savor this delectable seafood and more at the charming seaside eatery, The Red Shed.
Nelson, British Columbia
Nelson, a picturesque mountain town, owes its initial growth to the discovery of silver in 1886 at Toad Mountain, located nearby. The town has since undergone a transformation, with many of the historic buildings from that era being meticulously restored, adding to the town’s quaint and charming atmosphere. Nelson is now a hub of cultural activity, offering a plethora of options such as restaurants, cafes, shops, art galleries, and coffee houses. Winter activities include skiing and snowboarding, while summer brings events like Marketfest, a vibrant nighttime market held on the last Friday of June, July, and August.
