The Canada Strong movement is gaining steam, and it’s already begun to reinvigorate our nation’s tourism industry.
In fact, 81 per cent of Canadians have said that exchange rates drive their travel choices, and many are currently favouring destinations where the loonie holds strong.
Canadians who normally travel south of the border for the winter — called “snowbirds” — are steering away from U.S. trips. Tourism to the land of the red, white and blue has dropped for seven straight months, according to StatsCan.
There are so many enchanting places to visit in Canada, and leaving the country isn’t necessary to have a relaxing, restorative vacation experience.
From the mountains of Banff to the moors of Newfoundland, Canadians are finding new ways to rediscover the beauty of the country we all know and love.
Here are the top vacation spots the Great White North has to offer — let this be your guide for planning your next getaway.
Rewarding yourself with an all-natural, oceanside hot spring at the end of a hike through B.C.’s West Coast wilderness is a match made in heaven.
On this Tofino boat tour, you’ll journey to a secluded ocean island with mineral hot springs.
You can soak in some of B.C’s most beautiful natural scenery and loosen up your body in the gentle waters.
Plus, you’re sure to spot some Canadian wildlife, like black bears, eagles, seals, and otters, during your boat ride down the coast.
A trip to Tofino is perfect for honouring the sailors and the surfers within all of us.
There’s no reason to leave the country to catch the perfect wave!
Where: Tofino, B.C.
A boat ride on the sapphire-blue Lake Louise is one of the most romantic experiences you can have. It also recently received the thumbs-up of approval from Justin and Hailey Bieber, who vacationed there in October 2025.
Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise is one of the world’s best hospitality experiences. You can stay in comfort at a historic hotel designed after a Scottish castle, and drink in the sights of Banff National Park.
You’ll see mountains, wildlife, and some of the most pristine views in all of Canada. Plus, there’s plenty to explore in the nearby town of Banff, which has its own mountainside charm.
Where: Fairmont Banff Springs — 405 Spray Ave., Banff, Alta.
Sunshine Village was recently named the second-best ski resort in the country by Condé Nast Traveller readers, and for a long time, it’s been well known for having “Canada’s best snow.”
In fact, the powder on this mountain in Banff National Park is so good that it’s talked about by global skiers from around the world.
Luckily for Canadians, it’s right in our backyard.
Where: Sunshine Village, Banff, Alta.
Spending the night in a refurbished grain bin is a quintessential prairie experience — and these ones in Rosetown, Sask., are decked out in serious luxury.
You can marvel at the night sky and maybe even see the northern lights at these luxury accommodations situated on farmland in the heart of the prairies.
They’re owned by fourth-generation Saskatchewan farmers, who encourage you to wander around and learn about the farm during your stay.
Each grain bin even comes with a hot tub!
Where: Rosetown, Sask.
A stay in this restored 1920s castle in Port Dover, Ont., will leave you feeling like you’ve stepped right out of the set of Downton Abbey.
There’s a full suit of armour in the drawing room, fine English livery, and ivy growing up the castle’s stone walls.
If you want to journey with a partner, this romantic escape will make you both feel like royalty.
Nestled in the heart of Ontario along Lake Erie, there’s also plenty to do in the nearby town of Port Dover, including beaches and a lighthouse to visit.
You can sleep in on luxury sheets and enjoy breakfast in bed — it’s a grand vacation fit for a king.
Where: Port Dover, Ont.
Quebec’s Eastern Townships are popular for scenic views and sleepy, roadside farmland.
A road trip through this stunning area of Quebec is on many Canadians’ bucket lists, and for good reason.
You can stop in at the open farms, sample fresh, local cheese, and sip organic wines.
Practice your French and chat with the locals while exploring this array of quaint towns.
It’s the closest you can get to driving through Europe’s countryside without leaving Canada.
Where: East Townships, Que.
St. John’s, Nfld., is one of the most colourful cities in the country, thanks to these charming homes situated in its downtown core.
It’s affectionately named “Jelly Bean Row” for the array of colourful homes that line the streets in this Maritime city.
Strolling the streets is like being whisked away to your own oceanic fairytale.
You might meet the sailor of your dreams in a local pub, and you can gorge yourself on fresh seafood like lobster, crab, and oysters at local eateries.
The culture of the Maritimes is proud and longstanding, and you’ll hear these traditions in the fiddlers and sea shanties sung in local bars.
Where: St. John’s, Nfld.
Cavendish is known across Canada for its potatoes and for being the scenic setting of Anne of Green Gables.
But it has its own beachy charm that you’ll want to explore.
Similar to the Hamptons, Cavendish is a cozy, beachside cottage experience, perfect for week-long stays and families.
You can meander down to the Atlantic Ocean and find your step on beachside boardwalks.
You’ll enjoy the green grasses fluttering in the breeze at Cavendish, a spot that’s as perfect for family photos as it is for pondering the wonders of nature.
Where: Queens County, P.E.I.
Wherever you choose to vacation this year, there are plenty of homegrown Canadian spots just waiting to be discovered. Why leave?
Recent Posts:
Fairmont Banff Springs was just crowned one of the world’s best resorts
Some of the largest spruce trees in the world are at this B.C. park and fall is a magical time to visit
Em Medland-Marchen
Em is a Staff Writer for Curiocity Calgary. They are passionate about live music, rose gardens, iced coffee, their dogs Bandit and Stanley, and walks along the Bow River.
Read articles
