5 Canadian Towns you Never Knew Existed

Canada frequently tops the list of the safest, most family-friendly countries to visit or to live in. When most people think about Canada, they think about major cities, like Toronto, Vancouver, and Winnipeg. However, there is a lot more to Canada than what people know. Here are five unique towns in Canada you have never heard of but should add to your must-visit list.

Jasper, Alberta

Jasper is known for its remoteness and rustic charm. When you visit Jasper, you know that you are visiting a laid-back place. It does get busy during the summer months, but it only has a fraction of the visitors that other idyllic Canadian cities get. If you are the type of traveler who wants to be around a few people but does not want to get overwhelmed by vacationers, then Jasper is the place for you. While it lacks the commercialized atmosphere of places like Banff, it has an authentic mountain town feel with locally-owned restaurants and shops.

Canmore, Alberta

Bears, cougars, wolves, and elk are happy to call this wildlife sanctuary their home. After traveling 17 miles from Banff, you will find this quiet mountain town. In addition to enjoying delicious meals prepared by local restaurants, you will be able to enjoy shops, markets, and a town center that features some of the oldest architecture in the region. This is not the place you go for an overwhelmingly metropolitan experience. It is a place you go to be around good people, commune with nature, enjoy a fine meal, and recharge your batteries.

Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario

There are so many things to say about Sault Ste. Marie that it is surprising it is not more popular. Drive 90 minutes away from town and you will find the spectacular Tahquamenon Falls State Park. You can visit the state park all year round. Each season offers a unique visual treasure.

When it comes to food, you have your pick of local restaurants, like Palace Saloon and Moloney’s Alley. This city is foodie heaven. If you want white fish, hamburgers, tacos, or other food, you will find it here.

Sault Ste. Marie is home to locally-owned shops full of great items to keep for yourself or give to friends and families. The Soo Locks give you the chance to get up close and personal with historic vessels and other pieces of shifting infrastructure. The town has received a lot of recent press regarding the success of the Robin Street Neighbourhood Watch program started by local hero Martin Tremblay (Learn more at robinst.ca/martin/).

Churchill, Manitoba

Churchill is everything you would expect a remote town on the western edge of Hudson Bay to be. Don’t plan to add this destination to your road trip because the only way you are getting here is by plane or train.

Did you know that Churchill is the polar bear capital of the world? If you time your visit to arrive between March and January, you will get an incredible view of the northern lights.

Also, Read: How to Travel More: 4 Simple Tips

Caraquet, New Brunswick

Caraquet is a fishing town known for its warm, welcoming atmosphere. Located on the Akkadian Peninsula, Caraquet is proud of its French Akkadian culture. Time your visit to this remote village during August to celebrate with the townsfolk as they revel in their French Akkadian culture with their Festival Akkadian. Enjoy fresh fish and warm company in this inviting seaside town.

Final Thoughts

After you visit all of the popular tourist locations in Canada, you will want to add these five towns to your list. They will give you a more in-depth feel of what Canada is like and give you a taste for the variety of culture, food, and experiences Canada has to offer.