Bucket List Things to See and Do in Canada

Canada is known for many things, aside from how nice the people are (although we’re pretty awesome 🙂 ). In this guide, my fellow bloggers and I have compiled the ultimate bucket list of our favourite destinations and activities to help you make the most of your Canadian journey.

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Get ready to be inspired as we cross the Country from the East Coast to the West showcasing our favourite bucket list things to see and do in Canada

From the rugged Rocky Mountains to the pristine coastal beauty of the Maritimes, this vast country offers unforgettable experiences. There are an abundance of bucket list things to see and do in Canada for solo travellers, which is why we love our Country so much. Let’s get started on our adventures across Canada that have been recommended by locals.

PREPARE FOR YOUR TRIP TO CANADA

Nova Scotia: Canada’s East Coast

Nova Scotia is a dream destination for solo travellers offering breathtaking coastal landscapes, charming small towns, and a warm, welcoming vibe.

Whether exploring the iconic Cabot Trail, savoring fresh seafood in Halifax, or enjoying the solitude of rugged beaches, it’s a place that balances adventure and tranquility.

With its rich culture, safe environment, and endless natural beauty, Nova Scotia promises an unforgettable experience for those travelling alone.

Cabot Trail Road Trip In The Fall

Recommended by Joanna From The World In My Pocket

Nova Scotia is indeed Canada’s playground, with incredible places to visit. You can live like a local in Mahone Bay, you can taste the unique Tidal Bay wine in the Annapolis Valley, you can stay in a train in Tatamagouche, and you can drive one of the most beautiful roads, in Cape Breton, among many other experiences.

Driving the Cabot Trail in fall should be on any solo traveller’s bucket list. Whilst Cape Breton is beautiful at all times, in autumn it becomes even more spectacular due to the trees changing their colours, painting the scenery in golds, reds, oranges and all the shades in between.

Whilst you can drive Cape Breton in one or two days, it is highly recommended to take your time and spread your trip for a much longer period of time. To really appreciate the nature here, don’t drive too much each day, and stop everywhere.

There are plenty of amazing hikes that lead into the heart of the national park, or on top of cliffs from where, if lucky, you may even spot a whale. You will find some of the best food in Nova Scotia along the way, such as the chowder at Chowder House, or the amazing whiskey dishes at Glenora Distillery.

Don’t be afraid to talk to locals and ask them about their favourite places in their back yards. This is how you will discover amazing trails and paths on which you may be the only hiker. Sunrises and sunsets are always special in Cape Breton, and with the large selection of unique accommodation options you will have the chance to even stargaze, by the fire, next to the water.

 

Prince Edward Island: Canada’s Smallest Province

Offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture, makes Prince Edward Island the perfect Canadian bucket list destination for solo travellers.

Its peaceful, natural landscapes, provide a serene escape for self-reflection and exploration. With charming small towns, fresh seafood, and iconic landmarks like the Green Gables house (for those of us old enough to remember), solo travelers can enjoy both adventure and tranquility in a welcoming, safe environment.

Take a Road Trip Around Prince Edward Island

Recommended by Sarah From In Search of Sarah

The charming province of Prince Edward Island is the perfect solo travel destination to add to your bucket list! It’s safe and offers a variety of breathtaking outdoor adventures. PEI offers plenty of hidden gems, is best explored by car and the whole island can be driven in three hours with tons of places to see in between – making it a manageable place to take a road trip!

Start your journey in Charlottetown – known as the Birthplace of Confederation. This vibrant city combines history, natural beauty, and small-town hospitality. Stroll along the waterfront to soak in the marina views and check out local boutiques and cafes.

For nature enthusiasts, PEI National Park offers scenic hiking trails and sandy beaches like Brackley Beach. In the fall, take a short hike around Mooney’s Pond to see the autumn colours, or relax at Knox’s Dam where you can see PEI’s only waterfall and unique fish ladder! There’s over 700-km of trail networks that can be done in segments, called the Island Walk, and offers serene coastal and countryside views. 

There are over 1800 km of coastline to explore – and it can be done year round! Lose yourself in the rolling dunes and red sandstone cliffs at Greenwich or Thunder Cove Beach.

Solo dining is a breeze around the island, with cozy spots like the Brickhouse or Leonhard’s Cafe in Charlottetown. Be sure to try the fresh seafood on the island – there’s no better place to try lobster and oysters! 

While there are more museums and attractions open during the summer, it’s a lot busier and more expensive. A peaceful experience is visiting Prince Edward Island in the winter, when its terrain turns into a magical frozen other-worldly landscape.

With its welcoming vibe and diverse attractions, road tripping around Prince Edward Island promises an unforgettable solo adventure year-round!

Quebec: The Province With a European Flair

Quebec is the ultimate Province for solo travellers seeking bucket list experiences, blending vibrant cities with stunning natural escapes.

Explore the European charm of Old Quebec. Immerse yourself in Montreal’s arts and food scene. Venture into the breathtaking Laurentians and Gaspé Peninsula.

With its rich culture, diverse landscapes, and solo-friendly vibe, Quebec offers endless opportunities for unforgettable adventures.

Have Fun At The Dufferin Terrace Toboggan Slide in Quebec City

Recommended by Christa From The Spirited Explorer

While Quebec City is a wonderful destination for solo travellers in any season, the city is extra magical in winter. And any snow-covered visit to Quebec City is incomplete without riding the historic toboggan slide, dating back to 1884.

The toboggan slide is located on Dufferin Terrace, which beautifully overlooks Old Quebec, the Saint Lawrence River, and the historic Château Frontenac. It’s open four months out of the year, from mid-December to mid-March, and costs just CAD $5.50 to ride the slide.

And because the slides require one or more riders, it’s a perfect, budget-friendly activity for solo travellers on a winter trip in Canada.

Overall, it’s such a fun-filled, adrenaline rush of a time that you’ll want to ride again and again. It’s just a bonus that the views you get from the top are so spectacular.

Afterward, warm up with a coffee or hot chocolate from Au 1884 Café, which doubles as the purchase point for tickets, before carrying on to explore the snowy cobbled streets, winter markets, and friendly energy of Quebec City.

Ontario: Home To Canada’s Capital City

Ontario is perfect for solo travellers craving bucket list adventures, with its mix of urban excitement and outdoor wonders.

Wander through Toronto’s vibrant neighborhoods. Marvel at the iconic Niagara Falls. Find peace in the vast wilderness of Algonquin Park.

Safe, diverse, and brimming with possibilities, Ontario offers a solo travel experience like no other.

Niagara Falls: A Canadian Bucket List Experience

Recommended by Sarah From Navigating Niagara

Niagara Falls is the ultimate solo travel destination, offering something for every type of adventurer—whether you’re chasing natural beauty or looking for outdoor thrills!

A must-see for any bucket list, Niagara Falls offers iconic views of the majestic falls from various angles, including for free at the brink of the Horseshoe Falls, and by visiting places like the Niagara Parks Power Station and the Skylon Tower, where you can enjoy panoramic views and learn about the area’s rich history. For an even more up-close experience, take a boat tour with Niagara City Cruises to feel the mist as you approach the roaring waterfalls!

There is much more to Niagara Falls beyond the waterfalls. The region is filled with scenic beauty and outdoor activities. Explore the Niagara Glen Nature Reserve, where there are plenty of amazing hiking trails that wind through lush forests and lead to the Niagara River. 

In the spring and summer, the Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens are a peaceful escape, where you can stroll through manicured gardens while enjoying the sweet scents of blooming flowers. For adventure seekers, hop aboard the Whirlpool Jet Boat for a heart racing experience up the Niagara rapids, or zipline to the Falls! 

Winter in Niagara Falls brings the added magic of the Winter Festival of Lights and dramatic scenery with the frozen waterfalls.

Solo travelers will appreciate the flexibility to explore at their own pace, taking in the quiet beauty of the Falls in the early morning or indulging in some farm-to-table cuisine at Table Rock House Restaurant or enjoying comfort food at Hi-Lite Cafe. With the number of visitors and tourists from all over the world, you never have to worry about feeling alone. 

Niagara Falls is one of the most visited destinations in the world – add it to your Canadian solo bucket list!

Sip Wine In Prince Edward County

Recommended by Sandra From Origin Travels

Affectionately dubbed “The County” by locals, this is Canada’s best kept secret wine country. The best way to explore this region of Ontario is by getting lost in the backroads. The scenic drive offers views of farmland, historic lighthouses and stunning vineyards, ending with a tasting at one of the emerging hotspot wineries.

Niagara and the Okanagan have long been regarded as the best wine regions in Ontario but PEC is starting to grow in popularity. You’ll be spoiled for choice with over 40 wineries and unique dining experiences.

Chefs in the County are passionate about farm to table, curating menus inspired by locally sourced ingredients and menus changing based on the season. A blend of diverse flavours in a picturesque setting is elevated by the unique wines of the region, most of which you can’t buy anywhere else, making your visit all the more special.            

In addition to the wineries, you’ll want to visit PEC for the stunning coastline along Lake Ontario that blends with slow rural life and small-town charm. The sandy beach in Sandbanks Provincial Park is known for the gorgeous sandy beach being ones of the most beautiful beaches in the province.

Plan your solo getaway of drinking delicious wine grown on the unique terroir of the region, slowing down in the small town vibe and lounging on the sandy beach.

Manitoba: A Bucket List Experience For Solo Travellers

Manitoba offers solo travellers unique bucket-list experiences, from witnessing the awe-inspiring Northern Lights to encountering polar bears in Churchill.

Polar Bears In Churchill: The Ultimate Bucket List Experience For Solo Travellers

Recommended by Jess From Uprooted Traveler

Canada is home to one of the best places to see polar bears on the planet- Churchill, Manitoba. 

Churchill is the first place the Hudson Bay freezes over in winter, so, from mid-October through early November, up to 1,000 hungry polar bears congregate around Churchill, awaiting the ice to freeze over so that they can return to the bay to hunt.

Getting to Churchill, which is located in the remote sub-Arctic regions of northern Canada, isn’t exactly easy. There’re no roads leading to the tiny town, so the only way you can get there is by an expensive flight or a long train ride, which can take up to two days from Winnipeg. Still, given the uniqueness of getting to see polar bears in the wild, it’s definitely worth the effort. 

There’s a variety of different ways to see the polar bears in Churchill, ranging from renting a four wheel drive car and looking for them on your own or by joining a group tour on a specially designed Arctic Rover.

The town is small enough to explore on foot as a solo traveller or, alternatively, there’s plenty of group tours to experience the wildlife. Either way, be sure to save up some of your energy so you can try to catch a display of the Northern Lights dancing overhead, at night.

Things To See And Do In British Columbia

British Columbia is a paradise for solo travellers like none other. Offering bucket list experiences like hiking through the stunning trails of the Rocky Mountains, whale watching along the pristine waters of the Pacific coast or visiting the Capilano Bridge, there’s definitely an endless amount of bucket list experiences for solo travellers in British Columbia.

Visit The Capilano Bridge: A Canadian Bucket List For Solo Travellers

Recommended by Goya From Goya Galeotta

Stretching 137 metres across the Capilano River, the Capilano Suspension Bridge in North Vancouver is one of Canada’s most iconic attractions — and a perfect addition to the itinerary of any solo traveller looking for unique things to do in Vancouver.

But there’s far more to the park than just the bridge. Inside you will find treetop walkways, a breathtaking cliff walk, and plenty of forest trails where you can lose yourself in the beauty of the Pacific Northwest, soaking in the sounds of the river and the towering evergreens.

The real magic happens from November to January during Canyon Lights, when the entire park transforms into a twinkling wonderland with millions of fairy lights illuminating the bridge, trees, and forest floor — it’s pure magic!

But it’s equally worth visiting in spring, summer, or autumn, when you’ll catch the park’s natural beauty in full bloom, minus the crowds.

Getting there? You can advantage of the park’s free shuttle service. It’s a stress-free way to get to Capilano, with the main pick-up point at Canada Place.

Heads up: Tickets must be booked online. Doing so in advance is highly recommended (not just guarantees entry but saves you $3 too!). Keep an eye on park updates however, as Mother Nature can be unpredictable. Heavy snow or storms can lead to last-minute closures, so some flexibility is key. And if you’re a BC resident, check out the BC Annual Pass — one ticket gets you unlimited access for a whole year. Ideal for repeat solo adventures!

Whale Watching Off The Coast of Vancouver

Recommended by Melanie From The World Travel Girl

Vancouver is known for its city and mountain located on the Pacific Ocean. Whale watching is one of the most popular activities to do and was especially one of my favorites when I visited Vancouver on my own. The waters surrounding Vancouver are home to a variety of marine mammals, including seals, orcas, humpback whales, and gray whales.

Seeing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat is an unforgettable experience. Whales are incredibly intelligent and graceful animals, and watching them swim and play in the ocean is truly breathtaking. Whale watching is also a great way to learn about marine life and the importance of conservation.

Whale watching is one of many things to do in Vancouver as it is a relaxing and peaceful experience. You can enjoy the company of other guests on the boat, or you can take in the sights and sounds of the ocean on your own.

The best time to go whale watching in Vancouver is from April to October when the waters are warmer and the whales are more active.

Wander Through Butchart Gardens in Victoria

Recommended by Lisa From Waves and Cobblestones

Even if you don’t have a green thumb, the Butchart Gardens are definitely one of the must-see attractions in Canada!

These stunning gardens are located just a short drive from Victoria and are a big part of why it is known as Canada’s Garden City.  They’re also a big reason why Victoria is one of the best places to visit in Canada.

The Butchart Gardens, which cover 55 acres, were built out of a former limestone quarry over 120 years ago.  The highlights include the grand sunken garden (which provides the biggest ‘wow’ factor), the Ross Fountain, the Rose Garden, and the Japanese Garden.

 Visiting the Butchart Gardens is the perfect thing to do as a solo traveller, as it gives you the flexibility to spend as much time as you want as you enjoy all the different areas of the garden.   (It’s amazing not to rush your garden experience just because your travelling companions are getting bored!).

Best Time To Visit Butchart Gardens

The Butchart Gardens are open year-round but are especially lovely to visit in the Spring and Summer.   I think summertime is best as the weather is lovely and you have more hours of daylight to enjoy the gardens!  While the gardens have evening tour options, it’s hard to enjoy the gardens after dusk, so I’d avoid those hours.

There is a restaurant and coffee shop on-site if you need a snack, as well as a gift shop.

Bucket List Adventures In Alberta

Alberta is one Province that offers so many bucket list things to see and do in Canada for solo travellers. Visitors can enjoy the breathtaking natural landscapes and diverse outdoor adventures found in Banff National Park, or explore the unique cultural experiences found in larger cities, such as Edmonton and Calgary. Visiting the Province of Alberta is a must visit for all solo travellers seeking adventures in the great outdoors.

Hike The Little Beehive Trail and Visit Lake Agnes Teahouse

Recommended by Ashlyn From Elevated Travel

No Canadian bucket list would be complete without hiking the Little Beehive Trail in Banff National Park.

According to AllTrails, this out-and-back hike is 5.8 miles (9.3km) and 2,112 feet (644m) of elevation gain. This is considered a challenging hike, but it is so worth the effort.

This is a very popular summer hike and there are always other people on the trail, so I would feel safe venturing into the Banff wilderness as a solo traveller here (because in case you need a reminder, you should never be completely alone in bear country).

The trailhead is located at the world-famous Lake Louise. How often do your hikes begin somewhere as beautiful as this? After soaking in the grandeur of Lake Louise, the effort begins.

Brace yourself for a long stretch of incline and switchbacks, but you get some massive rewards along the way.

The first incredible sight along this hike is Mirror Lake, where the water is crystal clear with an emerald glow. It is an incredible place to rest (or jump in the water if you’re a little bit crazy).

After just another short push up the mountain you come to the Lake Agnes Teahouse. They serve soups, sandwiches, teas, and loads of baked goods- and the incredible part is that it is all carried up the mountain by hand or brought in by helicopter.

Enjoy a snack from the teahouse in front of Lake Agnes (they’re famous for their chocolate cake) before your final push to the summit.

The views from the summit of Little Beehive are extraordinary. This is one of the most incredible hikes I have ever done, and I am certain it will be at the top of your list, too.

Check out this article from Elevated Travel for a more in-depth guide to hiking the Little Beehive Trail at Lake Louise.

Wake Up Early For The Sunrise At Moraine Lake

Recommended by Deanne From Scenic and Savvy

Visiting Moraine Lake in Banff National Park tops many people’s travel bucket lists. Witnessing the grandeur of Moraine Lake at sunrise, however, takes it to a whole different level.

As the first rays of sunlight sparkle on the mountain peaks, the reflection glistens in the turquoise water below. The early morning hours provide an especially peaceful time to enjoy the scenery.

While you won’t be alone – professional photographers love a majestic Moraine Lake sunrise – there are a variety of secluded rocks to sit on without fighting the bigger crowds that come during midday. It’s still best to arrive at least 30 minutes early to claim a spot.

Once there, early risers hike up a short but steep series of steps called the Rockpile Trail to access the best view.

Summer and early fall is the ideal time to visit Moraine Lake since the road leading to the lake is open late June through early October. To combat congestion and parking challenges, personal vehicles are no longer allowed to park at Moraine Lake.

Travelers must take a sunrise shuttle, tour, or stay at the exclusive Moraine Lake Lodge. This slight inconvenience is well worth it, though. Visitors are rewarded with postcard-worthy views of the sun spectacularly glowing over Moraine Lake’s serene, crystal blue waters.

Hike The Abbott Ridge Trail in Glacier National Park

Recommended by Dotti From Travel Oasis

If you’re looking for a challenge and incredible mountain scenery, conquering the Abbott Ridge Trail in Glacier National Park is an absolute bucket list activity for solo travellers in Canada. 

This tough but rewarding hike is easily one of the best day hikes in Canada, if not the world. Whilst Banff gets all the attention, this hidden gem features magnificent views and far fewer crowds than you’ll find further east. 

However, it’s popular enough that you can do it solo, making it an ideal hike for solo travellers. You’ll have company (for safety) but never feel crowded. 

Starting at the Illecillewaet Campground, the trail takes you through dense forests, open meadows and up to panoramic mountain views. It’s about 14 to 17 kilometres round trip, with an elevation gain of 1,050 to 1,300 metres, so it’s not for the faint of heart! Most people finish it in 6 to 7 hours, so be prepared for a full day on the trail.

The first part winds through old-growth forest before opening up to wildflower-filled meadows. As you climb, the scenery shifts to sweeping views of glaciers, rocky peaks and valleys. You’ll get up-close looks at spots like the Illecillewaet Glacier and Mount Sir Donald. It’s truly epic!

Since this is Canada, the best time to tackle this hike is in the summer (June to September). This is big time grizzly bear country, so be sure to take some bear spray with you and make noise as you hike.

Pitch A Tent In Waterton National Park 

Recommended by Shireen from The Happy Days Travels

One of the most beautiful places to visit in Canada, and relatively unknown, is Waterton Lakes National Park located on the Canada/US border between Alberta and Montana. 

The park is only accessible via a guided tour or your own vehicle and is open in the summer months between May and September.

Visiting Waterton is the perfect option for a solo traveller to incorporate in a Canadian or US road trip (or both). Camping at Waterton National Park involves planning because there are only three sites to camp and spaces go quickly so be sure to book your trip in the January before your travel dates. 

The park has stunning lakes surrounded by the Rocky Mountains and is a quieter place to explore than the likes of Banff or Jasper. There are excellent camping activities to do in Waterton like water sports, BBQs, hiking and kayaking as well as visiting the Red Rock Canyon and having Afternoon Tea at The Prince of Wales hotel.

One of the most unique things to do in Waterton is visiting the Bison Herd by car only on the outskirts of the park which is a winding road in a large, gated area where you’re guaranteed to see these incredible animals. 

Visiting Waterton is a bucket list destination in Canada and you will fall in love with this quaint mountain town like I did. 

JUST ONE TIP: While camping anywhere in Alberta, ensure you are wildlife-aware. Bears, moose, coyotes, and more animals can be seen anywhere at any time.

Drive Along Icefields Parkway: One of the world’s most beautiful drives

Recommended by The Researched Traveler

Alberta Canada is one of the most iconic areas of Canada for those who love to explore and spend time outdoors. The Icefields Parkway is one of the best ways to experience the area and will give you plenty of places to see and things to do along the way.

This highway scenic drive takes you between Banff and Jasper, with national parks bookending the drive. Simply by driving this famous highway, you’ll get to see incredible waterfalls, the most beautiful glacier lakes in the world, and marvel at the mountains and glaciers along the way.

It’s perfect for solo travellers because most of the things to do on the Icefields Parkway are accessible with only a short walk from the road, or visible right outside your car window. So even if you don’t feel comfortable hiking a long way on your own, you can still enjoy everything the parkway has to offer.

Hiking Along The Icefield Parkway

If you do feel brave enough to get out and hike a little, then the Valley of Five Lakes trail is one of the best hikes you can find, taking you on an easy hike to the most serene lakes along the Icefields Parkway.

Be sure to keep an eye out for wildlife, as elk, bighorn sheep, and grizzly bear are just a few of the animals you may get a chance to spot.

The drive along the Icefields Parkway has been ranked as one of the most beautiful drives in the world. This is one Canadian bucket list experience solo travellers won’t want to miss.

Into The Yukon

Recommended by Kelly From Just One Passport

The Yukon, a vast and rugged expanse in Canada’s northwestern wilderness, is a Canadian bucket list destination that offers solo travellers an unparalleled sense of adventure and solitude. Known as the “Land of the Midnight Sun” and home to the awe-inspiring Northern Lights, the Yukon promises experiences not to be forgotten.

If you’re a nature enthusiast like I am, the Yukon’s untouched landscapes are a treasure trove. It’s home to Canada’s highest peak, Mount Logan, and the world’s largest non-polar icefields. Visitors will be taken back in time as they trace the path of Gold Rush adventurers. Expect to see an abundance of wildlife….bring bear spray!

The Yukon’s vibrant Indigenous cultures is evident. You can expect to connect with local communities, learn about traditional practices, and attend cultural events, which will give you a glimpse into their way of life.

Safety and solitude go hand in hand here. While the Yukon feels remote (and it is), its small, friendly towns like Whitehorse and Dawson City provide welcoming bases offering guidance and recommendations for solo travellers.

JUST ONE TIP: Due to the amount of wildlife (especially bears), I recommend joining a guided tour when venturing off into the wilderness.

While I was only in the Yukon on a day trip from Alaska, I dream of the day I can return to experience everything that this wonderful part of Canada has to offer.

SAVE YOUR BUCKET LIST THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN CANADA FOR SOLO TRAVELLERS