Let’s face it folks, we live in a big, beautiful, bustling country that has so much to offer. From east to west, Canada’s got natural wonders, concrete jungles, and a rich history filled with tales of both hardship and triumph. As we celebrate its 150th birthday this year, you should make it a goal to see as much of our nation as you can – so here’s a bucket list, including distance from our Highpoint community, to get you started!
CN Tower – 43.7 km
Image by Matthew via Flickr
Standing at 1,815.3 ft, the CN Tower requires absolutely no introduction. People from all over the world flock towards this icon and the number of times it’s appeared on Instagram, as well as album covers, is legitimate proof of how loved it is (looking at you, Drake!). Ride the elevator all the way to the very top and marvel at the metropolis #views that Toronto is so well known for. Remember, wherever you are in the city, all you have to do is look up and it’ll be there – especially at night when it’s all lit up and changing colours.
Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada – 43.7 km
Image by Eric Parker via Flickr
Home to more than 15,000 exotic aquatic creatures for you to discover and North America’s longest underwater viewing tunnel, Ripley’s is quite the special Canadian icon that you definitely don’t want to miss out on. With a variety of different galleries to choose from, featuring jellyfish, sharks, stingrays and much much more, you’re bound to keep coming back to Ripley’s for adventures! Spend some magical time with your family, your friends, your special someone or even just with yourself below the surface!
Old Quebec City – 842 km
Image by Harvey Barrison via Flickr
You’ll never feel the need to go to Europe again once you’ve been to Old Quebec. This enchanting historic neighbourhood is so full of history and charm, strolling through its streets is akin to travelling to a different time and place. Filled to the brim with festivals, flavours, art, culture and music all year round, there’s never a bad time to visit Canada’s beautiful Old City and stimulate every one of your senses. It’ll be an experience you truly will never forget, and best of all it’s right here at home.
Peggy’s Cove Village and Lighthouse – 1,871 km
Image by miquitos via Flickr
Is there anything more romantic than taking in the sight of a beautiful lighthouse and the smell of the sea? Luckily for all the romantics out there, Canada is home to Nova Scotia, the home to a number of iconic lighthouses that the East Coast is so well known for. Head to the fishing village of Peggy’s Cove, just an hour from Halifax and make your way to Peggy’s Point Lighthouse, built in 1915. It’s the most photographed lighthouse in Canada, and you’ll instantly see why.
Confederation Bridge – 1,339 km
Image by Maciej via Flickr
Have you ever wondered what links New Brunswick to Prince Edward Island? It’s this gigantic 8-mile bridge that opened in 1997 and has stood strong and proud all these years. It’s an engineering beauty and imperative to the east coast’s history. It’s also the longest bridge in the world to cross over ice-covered waters, so take your camera on a scenic tour of an important Canadian landmark!
Capilano Suspension Bridge – 4,374 km
Image by Michelle Lee via Flickr
Some say the west coast is the best coast, and there are reasons for this! One of these reasons is that it’s positively gorgeous out there! Vancouver is well known for the Capilano Suspension Bridge, which draws in hundreds and hundreds of tourists each year. It stretches far and narrow above the Capilano River and the wobbly walk is as incredibly thrilling as the treetop views are beautiful. At night, the bridge also lights up and making it from one end to another is 100% a joyful feeling you’ll never forget. Fun fact: the bridge can hold up to 96 grown elephants.
Lake Louise – 3,483 km
Image by Sheila Sund via Flickr
There’s no place like Alberta’s Lake Louise. With its untouched wilderness and adrenaline-filled outdoor activities, this breathtaking mountain destination is so iconically Canadian, and an absolute must-see. Biking, hiking, riding, fishing or just snapping shot after shot of photos for Instagram – whatever it is that you’re into, Lake Louise can give it to you. The awe-inspiring and pristine views of snow-capped mountains and blue waters will have you booking your next trip out west before you even leave!
Header image by Michelle Lee via Flickr