Things to do & places to visit in Fredericton, New Brunswick, Canada
Spread along both sides of the majestic St. John River, Fredericton combines the coziness of a small town with the world-class institutions of a city much larger than this humble capital. Tree-lined streets and suburban neighborhoods of Victorian-era homes live harmoniously alongside three universities, countless historic sites, museums, riverfront trails and restaurants featuring local and international cuisines. Fredericton also boasts a number of world-renowned festivals.
Fredericton city in , New Brunswick, Canada. Timezone: America/Moncton, current date and time: Friday, May 03, 2024, 13:52.
Top things to do (23)
- Observation Decks & Towers
- Speciality Museums
- Biking Trails
- Bridges
- Art Museums
- Military Museums
- Art Galleries
- Government Buildings
- Escape Games
- Visitor Centers
- Historic Sites
- History Museums
- Breweries
- Flea & Street Markets
- Science Museums
- Points of Interest & Landmarks
- Shopping Malls
- Libraries
- Farmers Markets
- Churches & Cathedrals
- Parks
- Scenic Walking Areas
- Farms
Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »
- 5.0 iSPY Escape Games (68 reviews)
-Creative, fun, and time well spent
Spent 1-2 hours Escape Games
Fredericton's newest escape room adventure! Are you looking for a longer escape room experience? Our rooms run for 75 minutes and are loaded with locks, puzzles, tools & special effects! Fun for all ages and skill levels. See more..
- 5.0 Bill Thorpe Walking Bridge (16 reviews)
-“World’s Longest Walking Bridge”
Spent 1-2 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Bridges • Scenic Walking Areas
Formerly known as the Fredericton Railway Bridge, it is now strictly pedestrian traffic, although cyclists and sometimes “e-bikes” use it. It crosses the Saint John River from the CBD to the former community of South Devon in a leisurely 15 minutes. It is part of New Brunswick’s Sentier Trail System and of course the Trans Canada Trail. Claims to be the World’s Longest Walking Bridge - but I didn’t know bridges could walk…(LOL). Apparently in excess of 600,000 use it every year. See more..
- 5.0 Fredericton Trails Coalition Inc. (16 reviews)
-Well marked and maintained trails.
Spent More than 3 hours Biking Trails
Over 115kms of converted Railway lines promote an active and environmentally-friendly recreational tourist network. With over 115kms of groomed trials (23kms paved), they transverse Fredericton and connect NB Trial routes forming loops from the Mactaquac Dam to Oromocto and beyond along the both shores of the Saint John River. One hour or one day trips, for the adventurous and families alike. See more..
- 5.0 St. Anne's Chapel of Ease (9 reviews)
-Place my grandparents got married!
Points of Interest & Landmarks
Place my grandparents got married! They came to America in 1925, marrying that year in the original part of the chapel. History relived. See more..
- 5.0 Dancing Goat Therapy Farm (4 reviews)
-Visit to Goat Farm
Friday: 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Farms
Get a taste of country living in a theraputic relaxing farm. Located 25 min outside Fredericton along the beautiful Keswic River. Enjoy the pastures hiking with theraputic Goats, experience hands on regenerative farming and be part of behind the scenes of where your food comes from , Gathering Eggs, Milking Goats, checking Bee Hives, harvesting fresh veggies. Create memories with your family taking adventures on the farm you can canoeing , kayaking or go fishing on the Keswic River right by our farm. We are located close to biking / walking trails, Crabb Mountain , Mactaquack Dam & Apple Orchards on the beautiful country side. See more..
- 4.5 Fredericton Boyce Farmers Market (377 reviews)
-Worth a Saturday morning visit
Friday: Spent 1-2 hours Flea & Street Markets
Recognized as one of Canada’s top 10 community markets, the Fredericton Boyce Farmers Market is the City’s traditional Saturday morning (6am-1pm) gathering spot downtown for fresh and healthy foods, craft, creativity and conversation. With more than 250 indoor and outdoor local suppliers from along the St. John River Heritage Corridor and across the Province, The Market (as it’s known here) is the place to discover seasonal products like fiddleheads and blueberries , ultra-fresh produce, including organics, meats & seafood, cakes & confections, breads, cheeses & homemade jams, fresh-squeezed juices & New Brunswick wines, artisan chocolates, specialty coffees & beans. Ethnic delicacies, from Chinese buns to Lebanese stuffed grape leaves and the City’s famous samosas, are also a big part of The Market tradition. A vibrant space with one-of-a-kind gifts, colourful and quirky, finds include pottery, jewellery, paintings, textiles and lawn sculptures. Breakfast is served up on site. See more..
- 4.5 Beaverbrook Art Gallery (318 reviews)
-Fascinating Gallery even viewing it online
Friday: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM Art Museums
Visit one of Canada's most vital art galleries and experience the wonder and magic of the visual arts. A world-class collection meets the tranquility of the Maritimes at the Beaverbrook Art Gallery in Fredericton – explore outstanding art and exhibitions from an international art collection featuring works by renowned and rising artists alike. Explore diverse exhibitions, find favorites from the collection, take a break at the café, and find something to bring home in the shop. See more..
- 4.5 Odell Park (252 reviews)
-Nice Morning Hike
Parks
We had a great hike around Odell Park. It was lovely with very few people around. We visited in late June and didn’t know how bad the mosquitoes would be then. If you visit around that time, you may want to protect yourself before walking in the woods. See more..
- 4.5 Officers' Square (161 reviews)
-Changing of the guard
Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • Parks
One of Fredericton’s most beautiful and historic areas, Officers’ Square was named one of the Top 10 Public Spaces in Canada! It was a centre of military activity when Fredericton was garrisoned by the British and Canadian Armies. During July and August, it is the site for outdoor summer concerts, the Changing of the Guard ceremony, daily outdoor theatre, and a variety of festivals and events throughout the year. See more..
- 4.5 Science East (115 reviews)
-Frequent visits
Friday: 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Science Museums
Play, Discover and Learn! Science East Science Centre is one of Canada’s most unique tourist destinations. All ages can enjoy the over 150 hands-on exhibits exploring science through technology, optical illusions, energy, animals, dinosaurs, exotic insects, deep space and more! Located in the former York County Jail built in 1842, science and history meet in the basement museum where the jail's intriguing history and role in Canadian forensic science is revealed. Experience daily summer science shows at 11am & 2pm and Atlantic Canada’s only outdoor science playground! Week-long science camps offered in summer and March Break. Programs and services offered in French and English. See more..
- 4.5 Christ Church Cathedral (81 reviews)
-Beautiful Cathedral
Churches & Cathedrals
Amazing church, great history! There are guided tours in both French and English that helps you learn more about the city's history and culture. See more..
- 4.5 Old Government House (79 reviews)
-A Slice of History
Government Buildings
A significant glimpse into Canadian history. The guide was articulate and knowledgable but I was disappointed in her lack of mention of the First Nations People. Not only is Government House on Indigenous land but the role the First Nations' People played in colonialism is paramount to the creation of Canada as a country. See more..
- 4.5 Legislative Assembly Building (78 reviews)
-Impressive Architecture
Friday: 8:15 AM - 4:30 PM Historic Sites
It is an edifice worth competing with the European palaces, well worth a visit. Unfortunately, it closes at 4:30 or so and we were there too late to see the interior which I read is gorgeous. I recommend coming into town a bit earlier. See more..
- 4.5 Killarney Lake Park Trail (69 reviews)
-Great small Beach
Parks
We love Kilarney, We do have hang out on the beach, or take the paddle boards out. The lifeguards are very strict with rules, no floaties in roped-off area, no adult beverages. Though I have noticed they tend to ignore the adults with drinks and only seem to bother the University aged ones (I say this as a 30 year old). No dogs on beach but can take them off the sand area. See more..
- 4.5 Gallery 78 (39 reviews)
-A Visual Feast
Friday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Art Galleries
Well displayed. Wonderful art. Setting is relaxing with a wonderful view. Staff was friendly and helpful. Highly recommend. See more..
- 4.5 City Hall (36 reviews)
-What a nice surprise!
Spent < 1 hour Visitor Centers • Points of Interest & Landmarks
Fredericton's City Hall, built in 1876, is the oldest one still in use in the Maritimes. Visitors are welcomed to the City at the Visitor Information Centre located in the lobby, and can tour the Council Chamber, see the restored clockworks and a series of commemorative tapestries which are on permanent display. *Until 1952, the square in front of the building was used as a public farmers market. *During the late 1800s and early 1900s, the 2nd floor was used as an Opera House, and was the entertainment center of the city. *The clock is hand wound every day. The hands are 8 ft. long and made out of copper. *In 2013, the fountain in front of City Hall was restored to its original 3-tiered height. The cherub atop the fountain is affectionately known by locals as Freddy the Nude Dude, although his formal title is Putto with Fish. See more..
- 4.5 Garrison Night Market (31 reviews)
-Great addition to our city
Spent 1-2 hours Farmers Markets
Please note: Due to COVID-19, Fredericton Tourism has announced the suspension of the Garrison Night Market for the 2020 summer season, due to provincial restrictions on large gatherings and maintaining physical distancing. On summer Thursdays, Carleton Street in the Historic Garrison District comes alive with the Garrison Night Market. The market sets up in the old British military garrison and features local and imported handmade products, art, craft & design, clothing, locally-grown farm products, local microbrews, ciders & meads, youth entrepreneurs, buskers, and, of course, food! See more..
- 4.5 New Brunswick Sports Hall Of Fame (20 reviews)
-A Good Stop For the Kids
Temporarily closed - Closed until Jun 6, 2023 Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums
This interactive museum hosts a number of galleries featuring exhibits and memorabilia related to New Brunswick sports history and its Hall of Famers. One of the largest portrait collections in the province is on display in the form of artistic depictions of the hall's inductees. A 5-in-1 interactive sports system allows visitors to give it their best shot while playing basketball, hockey, football, baseball or soccer. Activities and special events are held throughout the year. The New Brunswick Sports Hall of Fame Inc. was established in 1970. We celebrate the stories of New Brunswick’s most inspiring athletes and leverage the power of sport to enrich lives and demonstrate the positive impact that sport and the community of the people involved in sport have in shaping the lives of our youth. By honouring our best, we inspire the rest! See more..
- 4.5 Wilmot Park (19 reviews)
-Great for kids!
Parks
Great for kids! Swings, slides and splash pad! Although splash pad is closed. I played in this park in the 1960s and took my kids there when we would return to visit my parents and I took my grandchildren here and they loved it as much as I did. See more..
- 4.5 Provincial Archives of New Brunswick (13 reviews)
-Family ancestry
Libraries
First: Pictures Second: Documents Third: Memorabilia Fourth: Knowledgeable staff Fifth: On UNB campus Sixth: Great staff See more..
- 4.5 Wilmot United Church (10 reviews)
-very friendly and welcoming congregation
Churches & Cathedrals
Visiting Fredericton from out of province and enjoyed the Sunday church service and coffee get together afterwards See more..
- 4.5 Bibliotheque Publique de Fredericton (9 reviews)
-Great Staff
Friday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Libraries
Centrally located in Fredericton's historic Military Compound, the library is at the foot of Carleton Street across from the Carleton Street Armouries, offering a wonderful view of the majestic Saint John River. The library is open 7 days per week providing access to the internet, computers, printing, Wi-Fi and other resources including books, magazines and movies as well as community information. It is the perfect spot to stop and find out what's happening in Fredericton. See more..
- 4.5 Brunswick St. Baptist Church (8 reviews)
-A beautiful sanctuary
Churches & Cathedrals
This historic church is located in the heart of downtown Fredericton and is a beehive of activity. The stained glass in the sanctuary glows any time of the day or evening. The Christmas activities are wonderful! See more..
- 4.5 Gallery on Queen (7 reviews)
-Local artists hot spot in downtown Fredericton
Friday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Art Galleries
Upon arriving at this space, the visitor knows he or she is truly in a special place. The calm yet vibrant and electric atmosphere allows for both a charming and charged experience. This is a place that has its ear refreshingly close to the ground. It is hard not to describe this gallery as a must-stop for any appreciator of art in downtown Fredericton. 10/10 See more..
- 4.0 Picaroons (92 reviews)
-Busy summer afternoon at this spot
Friday: 10:00 AM - 11:00 PM Breweries
Picaroons award-winning traditional ales are made with the finest quality malted barley imported from England and Germany. Whole hops are imported from England, New Zealand and the west coast of North America. Plus they use a signature Ringwood Yeast and New Brunswick's deep well water. Picaroons is New Brunswick's first new generation micro-brewer. As part of the Atlantic ÉCONOMUSÉE Network, visitors can tour the 6000 sq. ft. brewery and talk with the brew master. See more..
- 4.0 Fredericton Region Museum (58 reviews)
-It All Starts Here
Friday: 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM Spent < 1 hour History Museums
The Fredericton Region Museum is a small not-for-profit history museum located in Officers' Square, the heart of Downtown Fredericton!! It exhibits the history of Fredericton in 12 galleries and is the home of the taxidermy remains of the Coleman Frog! Some exhibit themes include Native, Acadian, Planters, Medical, Military and Loyalist history as well as an 18 minute orientation video that tells the history of central New Brunswick. There are over 700 artefacts on display ranging from farm implements to fine art. Operated by the York Sunbury Historical Society, the museum has a small paid staff. Dedicated volunteers, summer students and interns do most of the gallery work. The time that it takes to visit is dependent on the visitor; some stay for 30 minutes while others stay for hours. See more..
- 4.0 Regent Mall (55 reviews)
-Not the Mall of America but still very enjoyable.
Friday: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM Shopping Malls
The Regent Mall was a nice surprise. I was expecting it to be smaller it provides a variety of stores and shops. The food court has a variety of food to choose from as well. We spent a rainy evening there and had plenty to do before the movie started. See more..
- 4.0 Guard House & Soldiers' Barracks (31 reviews)
-Free
Military Museums
The Soldiers’ Barracks is an 1827, three and a half storey stone structure built by the British Army to accommodate more than 200 British soldiers. A bronze plaque honours the 104th Regiment. Remarkably, as reinforcements for the war of 1812, six of its companies made a 1,128 km, 52-day march to Quebec and then to Kingston, Ontario, between February and April of 1813, with no loss of men. The lower level of the Barracks houses the Barracks Fine Craft Shops, featuring local artists producing & selling their wares. In addition to fine crafts, River Valley Crafts provides visitor information, tickets for programs within the Historic Garrison District, refreshments and souvenirs. Open daily June to September. English and French tours are available from interpreters at the adjacent Guard House in July & August. See more..
- 4.0 Historic Garrison District (31 reviews)
-EXCELLENT FREDERICTON MUSEUM / GARRISON DISTRICT
Points of Interest & Landmarks
Re-live our history! The Historic Garrison District, a National Historic Site, is Fredericton's premier heritage and festival center. This beautiful riverside site recalls all the drama and glory of Frederictons past as a garrison town. The Garrison is a centre for heritage, culture, craft and entertainment. Experience the attractions, tours and daily free entertainment including the Changing of the Guard, tours, concerts, live theatre, outdoor films and gift shops all in one extraordinary place! National Historic Site since 1964, and Provincial Historic Site since 1965. The Historic Garrison District originally consisted of the two-block area bounded by Queen, York, Campbell and Regent Streets where British troops were garrisoned from 1784 until 1869. The first buildings on this site were made of wood and later replaced by stone structures. One original wood building still remains in the Garrison, home to the administrative offices of Fredericton Tourism! See more..
- 3.5 The Lighthouse (116 reviews)
-LOTS OF COLD FISH IN THIS TOWN!
Spent < 1 hour Points of Interest & Landmarks • Observation Decks & Towers • History Museums
Ice cream stand with beer garden and viewing deck of Saint John River. Opens in Early June closes Labour Day weekend. See more..