Moncton 
Photo Credit: Stephen Downes
Located near the border of New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, Moncton is the largest city in New Brunswick.
Whether you are visiting the area or enjoying a staycation, there are plenty of great summer activities in the area from watching the world’s highest tides to fantastic summer festivals. Moncton offers something unique for all ages with it’s rich cultural and art scenes.
Here are 50 summer activities in and around Moncton from fun festivals to thrilling tours
1. Riverview SUNFEST
Kickoff summer fun in Riverview. Lively outdoor events, family fun, and a grand Canada Day celebration! June 26 to July 1, 2019 . Sunfest
2. Shediac Lobster Festival
Each year, nine days are set aside in the summer to celebrate lobsters and the amazing dishes that can be made from them. It has been happening for the last 69 years and offers an all you can eat lobster experience, so you may want to pack your lobster bib when you go to this festival. The festival also has entertainment for both kids and adults with a Midway, magicians, musicians, beach games and contests. – Shediac from July 10 – 14, 2019
3. Rotary RibFest Moncton
Round up the whole family and head to the annual Rotary Ribfest Moncton. Entrance to the event is free, and you can buy the food and drinks that you want. Each ribber has their own menu and their own take on ribs, so you should be sure to look around before deciding what type of ribs you would like to eat. There is also live east coast music and kids’ activities for the whole family to enjoy. Rotary RibFest Moncton – Moncton from June 20 – 23, 2019
4. Magic Mountain Water Park – Moncton
If you love waterslides, you should definitely plan a visit to Magic Mountain Water Park. There are water activities for the whole family. Young kids can splash at the splash pad. If you are really daring, head to the Torpedo Drop Capsule. You should be sure to remember to apply sunscreen because you will want to spend the whole day here. Magic Mountain Water Park
5. Mud City Meltdown – Moncton
The Mud City Meltdown takes over downtown Moncton during the last week of July. The outdoor stage welcomes both local and world-class bands. Along with the live shows, there is also an educational component which includes free panels and workshops for music lovers to take part in. Mud City Meltdown – 2019 dates TBA
6. The Homestead Restaurant – Riverview
A local favorite and a well-kept secret, the Homestead Restaurant serves up generous platters of home-cooked food along with delicious home-baked breads and pie. It has been open since 1991, so drop in for a superb meal, eat well but keep the secret. The Homestead Restaurant
7. Hopewell Rocks – Hopewell Cape
Photo Credit: Tourism New Brunswick
Just an hour outside of Moncton is the Hopewell Rocks. These unique rocks are formed by the Bay of Fundy’s tides. During low tides you can walk on the beach and explore the 2km of beach and coves. If you visit during high tides, you can kayak around the Hopewell Rocks.
8. Parlee Beach – Shediac
This lovely beach is just a short drive from Moncton and is known as Canada’s warmest salt water beach. Along with the supervised beach, there are also places to play volleyball, ultimate Frisbee, and a campground you can stay at. The on-site campground has change houses, showers, washrooms, playground, picnic area, an amphitheatre, a camper’s store, and plenty of free parking. Parlee Beach
9. ImaginAIR Festival – Dieppe
Enjoy fireworks, kiteflying, live entertainment, outdoor activities, workshops focused on the culinary arts and astonishing performances inspired by the air and summer colors! Festival.
10. Shediac Bay Cruises – Lobster Tales – Shediac
The Shediac Bay Cruises, also known as Lobster Tales, will teach you about the lobster industry and how to perfectly cook lobsters the Acadian way. The tour is about 2 ½ hours long and will take you around the Shediac Bay. Shediac Bay Cruises
11. Magnetic Hill Zoo – Moncton
The largest zoo in Atlantic Canada, the Magnetic Hill Zoo is home to over 500 animals from around 80 species. This zoo houses a diverse collection of animals from around the world, including Amur tigers, lions, leopards, zebras, Gibbon apes, cotton-top tamarins, and lemurs from Madagascar. The zoo was designed from the ground up to be comfortable for all the animals that call it their home. Magnetic Hill Zoo
12. Inspire Festival – Moncton
This festival is where street art comes alive and turns Moncton into a living piece of artwork with murals, interactive installations, performances, live art and much more. If you want to become a human canvas, make sure to stop by the Colour Party in the Park. This collaboration between the local businesses, artists, and residents creates a unique feeling that you may not find again. Inspire Festival from July 8 – 13, 2019
13. DIY Studio – Moncton
The DIY Studio offers the largest selection of paint your own pottery in Moncton, so there is something for everyone. They have 250 pieces of pottery and over 75 paint colors to pick from. If you need some help, they also have stencils, silkscreens, and stamps that you can use to decorate your pottery. DIY Studio – Moncton
14. Mystery Moncton Escape Rooms – Moncton
Can you beat the clock and escape? The Mystery Moncton Escape Rooms will challenge your problem solving and teamwork skills. So, just pick your story, grab your friends and head on in. Mystery Moncton Escape Rooms
15. Crystal Mountain Party Palace – Moncton
This is a great place to visit if it is raining. You can try out their golf simulators or play a game of laser tag at Moncton’s best indoor entertainment centre. There are several laser tag games to pick from and over 85 real-world course to try your hand at. Crystal Mountain Party Palace – Moncton
16. TreeGO – Moncton
Zip around the forest like Tarzan at TreeGo, which is located just outside of Moncton. There are multiple activities available, so you can pick how far and how fast you want to go. There is also a special area that is designed for kids from 7 to 13 years old. TreeGO – Moncton
17. Fit Rocks Climbing Gym – Moncton
Fit Rocks Climbing Gym is a great place to go indoor rock climbing because it is the largest indoor rock climbing facility in Atlantic Canada. They have new climbing routes all the time, a virtual bouldering game wall, and a kid’s wall for the younger climbers. They also have a full training area for general fitness for people who are not climbers. Fit Rocks Climbing Gym
18. Resurgo Transportation Discovery Centre – Moncton
One of Moncton’s newest family attractions, it may be small but is a fun interactive museum. Kids can launch a rocket, fly a plane, build a truck and test their crafts in a wind tunnel. This science museum makes learning fun with its array of interactive exhibits and hands-on activities for all ages. Resurgo Transportation Discovery Centre
19. Mosaiq Multicultural Festival – Moncton
Downtown Moncton is filled with the sounds, sights, smells, and tastes of the world during the Mosaiq Multicultural Festival in July. This is the time when you can connect with your roots and learn about new cultures. The two days are packed to the brim with things to do and yummy food to enjoy. Mosaiq Multicultural Festival – from July 19 – 20, 2019.
20. Festival Acadie Rock – Moncton
Explore Acadian culture through music, performing arts, visual arts, and food at the annual Festival Acadie Rock. The week is packed with activities and there are live shows just about every night. So, get ready to party and make new friends. Festival Acadie Rock – 2019 dates TBA
21. Little Louis – Moncton
Serving up dishes that are amazing to look at and ready for Instagram photos, Little Louis offers a truly unique dining experience. Little Louis has been awarded a Four Diamond Restaurant status by the AAA/CAA along with the Wine Spectator Award. Little Louis – Moncton
22. Enjoy a vegetarian meal at Calactus – Moncton
With a menu inspired by food from across the globe, Calactus offers its customers the freedom to order anything for vegetarians. Their food is also enjoyed by many meat eaters who may be looking to try something new. You should be sure to finish your meal with one of their amazing homemade vegan desserts. Calactus
23. Capitol Theatre – Moncton
Capitol Theatre is one of a handful of fully-restored vaudeville theatres in Canada and it welcomes over 80,000 guests every year. This theatre is the heart of the region’s performing arts, so there is something for everyone to enjoy in both English and French. Guided tours are also available. Capitol Theatre – Moncton
24. Magnetic Hill Winery – Moncton
Located just off of the Trans-Canada Highway is the lovely Magnetic Hill Winery. You can do a tasting of their award-winning wines, or have a picnic on the patio of the farmhouse. The gift boutique offers over 100 unique Maritime handicrafts and local products for souvenirs that you can choose from. Magnetic Hill Winery
25. Tidal Bore
Created by the Bay of Fundy tides, the Tidal Bore happens twice a day. Watch the water in the Petitcodiac River rolls back upstream in one wave, which can be up to 60 cm tall. If you are planning on seeing the Tidal Bore, arrive about 30 minutes before the scheduled time because there are a number of factors that affect the river. Tidal Bore
26. Fundy National Park
Photo Credit: Canadian Tourism Commission
Along with having the experience of seeing the world highest tides, the Fundy National Park also has pristine forests and campgrounds. There over 120kms of trails to explore and 3 campgrounds that you can stay at. You can connect with nature by camping or just enjoy the beach for the day. Fundy National Park
27. Tide & Boar Gastropub – Moncton
A play on “Tidal Bore”, the Tide & Boar Gastropub was named one of Canada’s Top 50 Restaurant by McLean’s Magazine, and was featured on “You Gotta Eat Here”. So, stop in and enjoy scrumptious, local dishes along with great local beers and wines. The restaurant also features great local musicians. Tide & Boar Gastropub
28. Campbell Carriage Factory Museum – Sackville
Explore this 1855 carriage factory that was operational until 1949, and was restored in 1999. It is the only existing carriage factory in Canada. The barn is used to display a number of exhibits. You can also explore the blacksmith shop and the main two-storey building. Campbell Carriage Factory Museum
29. Live Bait Theatre – Sackville
Committed to enhancing the cultural life of the central Maritime region, the Live Bait Theatre entertains visitors with a variety of live shows, including live music, comedy and dinner theatre. Many of the shows are new Canadian scripts, plays, and arts that are new to the region. Both new and old artists are welcomed to the stage at the Live Bait Theatre. Live Bait Theatre – Sackville
30. Mel’s Tea Room – Sackville
Mel’s Tea Room is a long-time local favorite and landmark. It opened in 1945 and has been serving amazing burgers and homemade fries ever since. So, when you visit Sackville, stop in to enjoy delicious homemade comfort food, and maybe chat with some of the local residents. Mel’s Tea Room
31. Tantramar Wetlands Centre – Sackville
Spend an afternoon learning about the importance of wetlands and the animals who call these areas home at the Tantramar Wetlands Centre. They offer programs for all ages, and they welcome over 4,000 visitors each year. Tantramar Wetlands Centre
32. Tubing with Gallan’s Miramichi River Tubing – Doyles Brook
Join the Gallan’s Miramichi River Tubing staff for another season and tube down the lovely Miramichi River. There are two tubing runs that you can pick from, a 1 ½ to 2 ½ hour run and a 3 to 5-hour run. There are campgrounds nearby if you are looking to stay on the Miramichi River. Gallan’s Miramichi River Tubing
33. Art in the Park – Riverview
The Caseley Park bandstand will showcase artists with a variety of musical backgrounds all summer long. Join the Town of Riverview every Wednesday from 7 p.m.- 8:30 p.m. for a great summer line-up of free concerts, local art on display and the Lady Boss Collective’s Chocolate River Market. Art in the Park
34. Marche Moncton Market – Moncton
Over 130 vendors head to the Marche Moncton Market every Saturday to sell their locally produced goods. There is something for everyone at this market, so it is great for the whole family. The food court is the perfect place to pick up breakfast and lunch. Marche Moncton Market
35. Kouchibouguac National Park
Along the Acadian Coastal Drive is the Kouchibouguac National Park and some of the warmest salt water in New Brunswick. This is a great place to go camping and explore the endless sand dunes. This beautiful area offers a unique blend of Acadian and Mi’kmaq cultures. Kouchibouguac National Park
36. Sackville Waterfowl Park – Sackville
Winner of Environment Canada’s National Award for Environmental Achievement, the Sackville Waterfowl Park lets you get up close to the local wildlife while it protects the environment. The 3.5 kilometre trail allows you to spot over 160 bird species and 200 plant species. From mid-May to late August, guided tours are available for tourists and locals alike. Sackville Waterfowl Park
37. Le Pays de la Sagouine – Bouctouche
Travel back in time and experience what life was like for Acadian’s. Located on a tiny island in Bouctouche, Le Pays de la Sagouine is a reproduction of an Acadian village based on Antonine Maillet’s character, La Sagouine. During the summer, there is live theatre, music, and comedy shows for visitors to enjoy. Le Pays de la Sagouine
38. Sappyfest – Sackville from August 2 – 4, 2019
Sappyfest is the annual independent arts and festival that takes place the first weekend in August. The streets of downtown Sackville become filled with music the whole weekend. If you need a break from the music, there are many street vendors and business open during the fest. Sappyfest
39. Irishtown Nature Park
Explore the old Acadian forests and wetlands at the Irishtown Nature Park. The park is 2,200 acres of forest and 250 acres of water, with trails to take you to different parts of the park. The Tankville School is at the start of the trail and has been fully restored. The schoolhouse is used for a number of outdoor educational programs and is available to rent for events. Irishtown Nature Park
40. Riverfront Park – Moncton
Along with being a great place to watch the Tidal Bore, the Riverfront Park has 5 km of multi-use trails that you can hike. Relax on one of the beaches or stop and smell the flowers at one of the many floral displays. The park is located conveniently downtown, so it is close to many shops and cafes. Riverfront Park – Moncton
41. Marche De Dieppe Market – Dieppe
On Saturdays, the Marche De Dieppe Market is a busy place and is the perfect place to learn about what is grown and produce around Dieppe. Spend some time exploring the two floors of vendors, and trying some of the amazing handmade treats. Shopping local has never been easier. Marche De Dieppe Market
42. Musée Acadien de l’Université de Moncton – Moncton
There are over 42,000 objects and photographs on display at the Musée Acadien de l’Université de Moncton in the permanent exhibition “L’Aventure Acadienne”. Along with the permanent exhibition, the museum brings in temporary exhibits that explore global history. You can take a guided tour or explore the museum on your own. Musée Acadien de l’Université de Moncton
43. Sky Zone – Dieppe
Spend an afternoon bouncing off the walls at the Sky Zone indoor trampoline park. The team members will make sure that you are having fun while being safe. If bouncing is not your thing, you can relax at the Fuel Zone Café and have a cold drink and a snack. Sky Zone
44. Wild Blueberry Harvest Festival – Amherst to Truro
Spend some time celebrating wild blueberries across central Nova Scotia. There are a huge number of events in each town and communities to enjoy. You can also try u-picks or sample amazing dishes made with fresh wild blueberries. Wild Blueberry Harvest Festival August 16 – 31, 2019
45. East Coast Karting – Dieppe
Hit the track at East Coast Karting, and race your friends or family. You can travel up to 65 km per hour in the karts around the track. There are also mini grand prix races that you can take part in or that you can just watch.East Coast Karting
46. Fort Beauséjour – Fort Cumberland National Historic Site
Explore this historic fort where the future of Acadians and North America was decided. It is on the border of New Brunswick and Nova Scotia and is where France and Britain fought for Atlantic Canada. You can either take a guided tour or explore the fort yourself. Fort Beauséjour – Fort Cumberland National Historic Site
47. The Music Barn – Sackville
This over 150-year-old barn was made into a unique music venue in 2007. It is the perfect place to enjoy country or bluegrass music. The Music Barn
48. Clementine Café – Moncton
Serving up a whole lot of cheer and delicious coffee, the Clementine Café has become a local favorite. So, drop in and enjoy a cup of coffee or a local tea blend. Along with your coffee or tea and snack, you can play an exciting game of Foosball in their games and lounge area. Clementine Café
49. Magnetic Hill – Moncton
One of Canada’s most visited natural wonders, Magnetic Hill fascinates every visitor with the ability to pull cars uphill. Once you are on the hill, you just put your car in neutral and release the brake, then your car will be drawn up the hill. A visit to Magnetic Hill encourages you to open your mind, have fun, and enjoy one of nature’s wonders! Magnetic Hill
50. hop skip jump Indoor Play Space Moncton
Labelled as New Brunswick’s largest indoor play space, hop skip jump Indoor Play Space Moncton is a great location to head to on a rainy day. The activities vary from lasser mazes to virtual reality, wall climbing to toddler only activities. Truly, this is where kids come to play! hop skip jump
You may like to:
Stewart’s tubing is a million times better than Gallans. It’s farther, bit the tubes are much nicer and come with their own cooler.
The water is deep, the service is friendlier and the experience doesn’t last two seconds like at Gallans.
Wow. Great read thanks!!!
John @ monctontowing.com
This was kind of helpful
Do you have a french translation for this page? “50 things to do in Moncton” or anywhere on your site? I cannot seem to find it. I Was looking to send parents information on what to do with their children and we accommodate both languages, the best that we can.
Unfortunately, no! Use Chrome browser and set language as chrome, it will convert automatically..
On your computer, open Chrome. Click the menu icon, and then click on “Settings.” Go to advanced settings, set French as default language and enable automatic translation.