Why Canada? Here are 9 reasons

By CAIT EARNEST RJ CONTRIBUTOR

10 years ago

CN Tower is seen as Marine One helicopter comes in for a landing in this file photo. (AP File Photo/Charles Dharapak)

Senate Chamber, Centre Block of the Parliament of Canada (MightyDrake/Wikimedia)

People take advantage of the warmer weather by skating on the Rideau Canal in Ottawa. (AP Photo/Jonathan Hayward)

Tourists look over the brink of the Horseshoe Falls at Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada. (AP Photo/Dan Cappellazzo)

Depending on what part of the country you’re in, a trip to one of Canada’s provinces can be a change of pace without having to travel overseas. Some of the country’s hottest tourist attractions suit nature and city lovers alike, making it an ideal destination for groups and families.

From one side of the country to the other, Canada’s visitors find solace in its mountains, resorts and maple syrup. Here are a few of the country’s must-see attractions and cities:

Prince Edward Island

Known for its tourism appeal, the island offers its visitors endless attractions and festivals, as well as scenic drives, lighthouses and beaches. Prince Edward Island is roughly the size of Delaware, and its famous North Cape Coastal drives span from 20 to 60 minutes long. Hop in a car, make a pit stop at a lighthouse, enjoy the views and beaches.

Canadian Parliament

Get a taste of Canada’s rich political history by checking out the Canadian Parliament, housed in Ottawa. Take a free tour or sit in on a Senate or House of Commons session, then stick around to listen to a 53-bell carillon concert.

Hockey Hall of Fame

This museum-hall of fame hybrid, located in Toronto, offers tourists over a dozen different exhibits filled with trophies and memorabilia, as well as theaters and movies. While it plays tribute to current NHL players and teams, the Hall of Fame dives into the sport’s history; it’s not hard for hockey lovers to get lost in the expansive 60,000-square-foot facility.

Rideau Canal Skateway

From the beginning of January to the beginning of March, Canadians and visitors can ice skate along the Rideau Canal, which passes through Ottawa. Maintenance crews work to keep the nearly 5-mile-long surface open 24 hours a day during its open season.

Lake Louise

Located in Banff National Park in Alberta, Lake Louise becomes a winter destination with skiers flocking to its resort. During the summer, visitors can hike the trails around the lake, swim and enjoy the striking mountainous backdrop against the lake.

Banff, Alberta

Another National Park gem, Banff is a one-stop-shop for tourists looking for a nature-rich experience. It’s smack-dab in the Alberta Rockies with easy access to Vermillion Lakes, hiking trails and Cascade Gardens. The city itself hosts a variety of festivals for residents and visitors, but outdoor activities are just a few minutes away.

Victoria Island, British Columbia

Famous for its pristine and classic appeal, Victoria has long established itself as a prominent tourist destination. Cycle on its bike-friendly streets, jump on a “hippo tour,” take a stroll on the rocky beaches or explore the exciting nightlife.

CN Tower

Enjoy a panoramic view of Toronto in what was once the world’s tallest freestanding structure and tower. It has since been dethroned, but visitors can now have dinner and a glass of wine overlooking the city in the 1,815-foot-tall concrete tower.

Niagara Falls, Ontario

It’s world famous, romantic and majestic in every sense of the word; Niagara Falls draws its visitors from across the world who enjoy nearby hotels, trails and amenities. Try one of the preset packages with a hotel near the falls, or create your own trip. Wine lovers can check out Niagara Peninsula and its series of wineries.