New Brunswick: Take a drive along one of Canada’s most beautiful bays

Drive 191.9 miles, 3 hours, 46 minutes

Looking for a life-changing experience? Watch the tides roll in and out in the Bay of Fundy.

1. Saint Steven

Starting Point

Saint Steven is set on the banks of the St. Croix River, where the views are breathtaking and the aroma of chocolate wafts on the breeze; after all, this charming village is also known as “Canada’s Chocolate Town.” For more than 30 years, the weeklong Chocolate Fest has been held here every August; test your candy-making skill, enjoy sipping Choctails and dive into a chocolate-themed meal. Discover the story of confectionary pioneers James and Gilbert Ganong at the Chocolate Museum, located in the original Ganong candy factory, where hands-on exhibits and interactive displays explain how Saint Steven became Chocolate Town.

2. Saint John

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75 miles, 1 hour, 27 minutes

Stroll along the streets of Saint John, the oldest incorporated city in Canada (dating back to 1785), and explore Market Square. There, you’ll discover the New Brunswick Museum, with exhibits on the city’s ship building history. Meander the boardwalk and enjoy weekly festivals, free concerts and waterfront dining; check out the city’s Harbour Passage connection for other waterfront parks and sites. Prepare to be awe-struck by the amazing Reversing Falls, created by a progression of rapids and whirlpools that change directions due to the Bay of Fundy’s high tides converging at the Saint John River. The Bay of Fundy is one of the most intriguing marine wonders of the world, providing stellar views and miles of unspoiled coastline.

3. Moncton

94.5 miles, 1 hour, 46 minutes

Moncton is located at the geographic center of the Maritime Provinces and has been nicknamed the “Hub City” for its role as transportation center of the region. Watch a stunning spectacle as the Petitcodiac River rolls upstream in an impressive surge, thanks to the tidal bore from the Bay of Fundy. For an even more mind-blowing phenomenon, check out the Hopewell Rocks, famous for their “flowerpot” shape as a result of ongoing wear from the area’s tides, which rise approximately 50 feet at their height.

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4) Shediac

22.4 miles, 33 minutes

New Brunswick’s eastern shore is a mecca for seafood fanatics, especially lobster lovers. Take a lobster cruise and learn old fishing techniques and tips on how to best cook lobster, then utilize new tricks on how to eat it when you dine on the ultimate fresh lobster meal. Back on shore, climb on the “World’s Largest Lobster”—a 30-tone sculpture—for a great family photo, and don’t miss the annual Lobster Festival held each July. Set sail for adventure in some of the warmest waters north of Virginia, where boating and windsurfing tantalize ocean-goers.