If the province of Newfoundland and Labrador is not at the top of your Canadian bucket list, it should be. This stunning province is known for its untamed coastline, quaint towns and amazing hospitality. Few destinations are more underrated — and if you make the journey, you will be amazed that this spectacular destination lacks crowds.
No matter where you stay, a car rental is a must. Residents and travelers alike get around by car, which provides the most freedom to explore the national parks, remote attractions and all the other things to do in Newfoundland and Labrador. You just might discover that your most pleasant experiences involve scenic drives.
As you plan your adventure, be mindful of this province's size and scope. No, it's not as vast as Ontario or Quebec, but don't let that fool you. It takes a long time to get around, and if you want to see the best national parks or historic attractions, you will need to plan your itinerary carefully.
To help, we've highlighted several top attractions in Newfoundland and Labrador, grouping together top spots from the most beloved towns and cities, so you can plan accordingly. Keep reading to learn what to do in Newfoundland and Labrador and to discover what goes into a magical getaway.
Things to do in St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
As the capital of Newfoundland and Labrador, St. John's is a must visit city. In addition to outdoor adventures, you'll find the province's information-packed museums, not to mention, the colorful Jellybean Row houses and some of the region's most awe-inspiring artwork. St. John's is the dining hub of the province, with the seafood, in particular, bound to impress.
1. Signal Hill National Historic Site
Best known as the site of the Battle of Signal Hill during the Seven Years' War, this historic site promises impressive views and a truly educational experience. The visitor center has plenty of interesting exhibits, but the real intrigue arrives as you wander the paths. This historic destination is also home to Cabot Tower, in which Guglielmo Marconi famously received the very first transatlantic wireless radio transmission in a groundbreaking moment that spelled huge changes for global communication.
2. Johnson Geo Centre
Many of Newfoundland and Labrador's best museums are conveniently situated in St. John's, where there is always something new to learn and where it's always easy to keep entertained on rainy days. At the Johnson Geo Centre, you'll learn a great deal about earthquakes, volcanoes and other fascinating phenomena. This is easily one of the province's best attractions when traveling with children, who can enjoy an interactive adventure within the Hibernia KidsPlace.
3. Brewery Adventures
St. John's has a thriving beer scene and, if you want to get a real feel for the local atmosphere, head to the city's hottest breweries. The Quidi Vidi brewery is a must-visit, as you'll find a variety of ales, IPAs and even sours. The Bannerman Brewing Co. is also worth a visit — perfect for self-confessed beer geeks. Take a beer tour of St. John's to learn about the city while trying its brews.
4. Cape Spear Lighthouse National Historic Site
As the easternmost point in Newfoundland, Cape Spear is a lighthouse lover's dream come true, but it also offers some of the province's most spectacular shoreline views. Keep an eye out for whales, which visitors often spot while hiking in this area. Chances are your ocean views may include icebergs in the distance.
And of course, don't forget to add the lighthouse to your itinerary. The Cape Spear Lighthouse is the oldest surviving lighthouse in the province. Guided tours are offered in season from about June to mid-October.
Things to do at Bell Island, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
Accessible by ferry, Bell Island makes for a wonderful day trip when you stay in nearby St. John's but is worth an overnight trip if you get the chance. This visually impressive island is home to dramatic cathedral cliffs and giant sea stacks, making for exceptional views that are best enjoyed while hiking.
5. No. 2 Mine Tour and Museum
Discover the fascinating stories of Newfoundland's miners, who worked by candlelight and were often just 12 or 13 years old. This tour will give you a whole new outlook on the mining business and the sacrifices that hardworking miners have made through history. After the tour, stop at Mugg Up Coffee shop for some light bites and fresh coffee or tea.
6. Gregory Normore Coastal Walking Trails
Bell Island is best experienced on foot, and thankfully, there are many opportunities to explore when you hit up the island's many trails. These are not for the faint of heart; although well-marked, many sections are incredibly rugged. If you're up for a challenge, you can even circumnavigate the island.
Things to do in Battle Harbour, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
Travel back in time to experience life in a historic fishing village, which, like many of Newfoundland and Labrador's finest destinations, takes a bit of effort to reach. You'll need to take a ferry from Mary's Harbour, but you'll be truly amazed when you arrive — you'll feel as if you've stepped into a time capsule.
7. Battle Harbour Historic Village
A day in Battle Harbour is best spent wandering around the historic village, where you'll get a sense of what it might have been like to live and work in Newfoundland during the 1800s. Along the way, take in mesmerizing views of the rugged coastline, and the visual drama from the cliffs, and often, spotting icebergs in the distance.
Things to do at Fogo Island, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
Discover a delightfully remote experience in the northeastern corner of Newfoundland, where you'll encounter the province's largest offshore island. Known as Fogo Island, this idyllic destination reachable by a ferry trip. Stay at the Fogo Island Inn to uncover a spectacular take on Newfoundland luxury and hospitality.
8. Joe Batt's Point Trail
Fogo Island boasts many picturesque trails — but if you only have time for a single trek, head for Joe Batt's Point Trail. Take a moment to pause at the unique artist's studio, which you'll encounter halfway through your hike. It's impossible to miss, given its unusual and decidedly eye-catching architecture. Other worthwhile treks include Turpin's Hiking Trail and the lovely Deep Bay Foot Path Trail.
Things to do in Corner Brook, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
Easily one of Newfoundland and Labrador's most underrated cities, Corner Brook is a lot smaller than St. John's and, although not typically thought of as a tourist destination, boasts many underrated attractions and an overall pleasant atmosphere.
9. Captain James Cook Historic Site
Discover the complex history of British explorer and cartographer Captain James Cook, who, although better known for his Pacific voyages, is recognized in Corner Brook for his work mapping the coastline of Newfoundland. This historic site does not offer any extensive exhibits, but it serves as a spectacular lookout, with short descriptions providing enough of an overview to get a sense for the captain's fascinating life.
10. Caving Adventures
There's a whole other side to Corner Brook that you'll never discover if you stay above ground. With tours available through Cycle Solutions, the local caving experience is bound to leave you in awe. You'll meander along a subterranean stream while learning about the amazing natural forces responsible for creating this wonderland.
Things to do in Rocky Harbour, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
Gaze in awe at Newfoundland and Labrador's best views, which are readily available when you explore the national park town of Rocky Harbour. If you can only commit to one outdoorsy experience in all of Newfoundland, this should be it. You will never regret taking the time to explore the area's awe-inspiring hiking trails.
11. Gros Morne National Park
No trip to Newfoundland will truly feel complete until you've oohed and aahed at the remarkable fjords of Gros Morne National Park. This is one of best things to do in Newfoundland and Labrador, delivering gorgeous views you won't encounter anywhere else.
If you're up for a challenge, head to the summit of Gros Morne Mountain. This trek can be completed in a day, although you will almost certainly be tired by the time you finish the expedition. Keep an eye out for the park's red Adirondack chairs, which beckon a moment of rest and reflection.
12. Lobster Cove Head Lighthouse
Lighthouses are a quintessential part of the Newfoundland and Labrador experience, and the Lobster Cove Head Lighthouse is worth adding to your Newfoundland lighthouse count. This spot promises stunning views and is also home to a small, but informative museum. While this technically qualifies as part of the national park, it feels like a separate experience. Hiking is not necessary but certainly encouraged, with a gorgeous trail looping around the area and even bringing you to a rugged beach.
Things to do in Glovertown, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
If you can't get enough of the national park experience, continue beyond Gros Morne to check out another of Newfoundland and Labrador's outdoor wonders Terra Nova National Park. This is easily accessible from the small community of Glovertown, which is also home to an arts center, an old mill and a mini-golf course.
13. Terra Nova National Park
Enjoy a serene visit to Terra Nova National Park with its pristine hiking trails where you can wander for hours and achieve a delightful sense being one with nature. There are many spectacular trails worth exploring, but you'll definitely want to hit up the Mill Cove Lookout Trail.
Things to do in Twillingate, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
Embodying the rugged appeal of the Newfoundland coast, Twillingate attracts adventurers with its many outdoorsy activities, which provide new and exciting ways to take in the coastal scenery. Ultimately, however, the most serene experiences involve hiking the local trails or wandering around this picturesque town.
14. Rockcut Twillingate Trails
Want to combine an unforgettable hike with some scenic yoga? The Rockcut Twillingate Trails offer five different camping platforms scattered throughout the trail that are perfect for sun salutations. Feeling a bit artsy as well? The trail between French Beach and Little Harbor features two artists easels which allow hikers to take a load off and bask in the scenery, while sketching the breathtaking vistas sprawled out before them.
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