Moncton 
Annual Grande Grouille Fall Festival; Credit: Jardin Botanique du Nouveau-Brunswick / New-Brunswick Botanical Garden
The River Valley Scenic Drive explores two of New Brunswick’s largest cities and takes you to the western edge of the province along Saint John River. Take in the views of Eastern Canada’s longest river and experience why this drive is one of the best ways to discover New Brunswick.
Find the largest waterfall east of Niagara Falls, taste New Brunswick beers and explore one of the five UNESCO Geoparks in Canada, as you drive from Edmundston to Sussex.
Credit: Google Maps
** Make sure you are aware of all health regulations and other travel-related information before travelling. Some places listed in this article might be closed due to various reasons including COVID-19 restrictions**
New Brunswick Botanical Garden
Home to trees, flowers and plants from around the world, the New Brunswick Botanical Garden opened its gates in 1993. The garden is home to the Annual Grande Grouille Fall Festival. The Garden is open seasonally from May until October.
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15 Isidore-Boucher Blvd, Saint-Jacques
Republique Provincial Park
On the shores of the Madawaska River, the Republique Park is a wonderful place to stretch your legs or spend the night. Explore the scenic hiking trails or spend the day relaxing by the pool. In the evenings, the open-air amphitheatre comes alive with live entertainment.
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31 Isidore-Boucher Blvd, Saint-Jacques
Du Reel Au Miniature Interpretation Centre
Choo Choo, take a ride on the mini-train before heading into the 1900’s train shed replica. The 900 square HO 1/87scale layout is constantly changing. Don’t forget to go on the miniature tour of New Brunswick.
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1091 Victoria Street, Edmundston
Brasseurs du Petit-Sault Brewers
If you are looking for a different style of craft beer, check out the Brasseurs du Petit-Sault Brewers. Taste their Belgian-inspired beers in the tasting room, and visit the brewtique to purchase some beer to take home.
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45 De L’Eglise Street, Edmundston
Falls & Gorge
Credit: pedrik/Flickr
See the largest waterfall east of Niagara Falls. The gorge is over 1.5km in length. Reach the falls is easy as the trails are paved. There are also lookouts around the trail to give you a better view of the Falls and Gorge.
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Laforest Road, Grand Falls
Zip Zag
Credit: Zip Zag – Zip Line
Zipline across Grand Falls while zooming past steep rocky cliff walls of the gorge. Details
25 Madawaska Road, Grand Falls
Grand Falls Brewing Company
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651 Main Street, Grand Falls
Acanthus Gallery
The Acanthus Gallery is situated in the downtown area of Grand Falls in a gorgeous historic building that was built in 1927. It is a place where both beginner and accomplished artists are able to take part in a variety of educational opportunities and workshops from various artistic disciplines. The Gallery also holds art exhibitions for both solo and groups throughout the year.
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136A Church Street, Grand Falls
Potato World
Do you love potatoes or french fries? If you said yes, then a visit to Potato World is a must for you. Watch how potatoes go from seeds to hand-cut french fries. There is no better place to learn about potato farming than at the French Fry Capital of the World.
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385 Centreville Road, Florenceville-Bristol
Hunter Brothers Farm
Credit: Hunter Brothers Farm
Visit the family-owned Hunter Brothers Farm to pick up fresh fruit and vegetables. During late summer and early fall, you can make your way through their 6-acre corn maze.
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8534 Main Street, Florenceville-Bristol
Andrew & Laura McCain Art Gallery
If you are an art lover then a visit to the Andrew & Laura McCain Art Gallery is a ‘must’ stop for you. It is a non-profit, community art gallery that opened in 1984, which shows artwork created by regional and provincial artisans and artists. The Gallery is a professional venue that is open year-round featuring exhibitions that change every month with works that range from historical up to contemporary.
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8 McCain Street, Florenceville-Bristol
Bristol Shogomoc Railway Site
Experience what early trains were like and how important trains were to the Village of Bristol. In the first of the three railcars is a restaurant called Fresh. The site is only seconds from Riverside Park, so you can go for a walk after visiting the railway.
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9189 Main Street, Bristol
World’s Longest Covered Bridge
There are lots of covered bridges along the River Valley Scenic Drive, including the World’s Longest Covered Bridge. The bridge was used to connect Hartland to Somerville over the Saint John River. You can still drive across the Hartland Covered Bridge.
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Hartland Hill Bridge Rd, Hartland
Tour the Covered Bridge Chips Factory
See how homegrown dark Russet potatoes turn into a Maritime favorite chip. Creating over 30 flavours of chips, it is hard to pick what flavours to try after touring the Covered Bridge Chip Factory.
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35 Alwright Ct, Waterville
Visit New Brunswick’s First Town
Settled around 1783, Woodstock became a staple in Western New Brunswick trade and travel. Today the town is a relaxing stop for travellers going to the United States since it is close to the Canada-United States border.
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Woodstock
Woodstock Farm & Craft Market
A staple for over 40 years, the Woodstock Farm & Craft Market features a wide variety of local vegetables, fruits, freshly baked treats and fiddleheads. The Market is on the waterfront where the Meduxnekeag River and the Saint John River connect. Friday is the best day to go because all the vendors are onsite.
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King Street, Woodstock
Maliseet Trail
Rewarding hikers with spectacular views of Hay Falls, the Maliseet Trail is an easy to moderate 3.2 kilometre trail. The trail is well-marked and is a good hike for all skill levels. It can be wet in spots, so wearing sturdy footwear is recommended. The best time to hike the trail is from April to October.
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Highway 165, Woodstock Parish
Yogi Bear Jelly Stone Park
Meet Yogi Bear and his friends at Jelly Stone Park. Offering more than just camping, this camping park is a family favorite. Zip down the waterslide into the ‘camper’ pool, play around of mini-golf, or jump on the giant pillow, there is so much to keep the whole family busy.
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174 Hemlock St. Lower Woodstock
Dukeshires Apples Orchard
Credit: Dukeshire’s Apples – Orchard Shade Farms
Opening in September, you can pick your own apples from over 10,000 trees. If you cannot wait for freshly picked apples, stop by the packing house from late August until December.
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4210 Route 105, Northampton
Big Axe Brewery
Starting as a bed & breakfast, the Big Axe Brewery quickly became a brewery in 2013. It is a popular stop for locals and travellers. Overlooking the Saint John River, the tasting room is lively with live music and offers six beers on tap, along with cider and mead from local Fredericton producers.
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537 Otis Drive, Nackawic
World’s Largest Axe
Credit: Town of Nackawic
New Brunswick loves holding World Records, and the Nackawic’s Giant Axe is the World’s Largest Axe. Along with just being a roadside oddity, the axe site is home to a time capsule embedded inside and host to musical and theatre performances through the summer.
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Landegger Drive, Nackawic
Kings Landing
Credit: Kings Landing
Be transported back in time nearly 200 years old and find out what life was like on the banks of the Saint John River in the 19th century. Explore the over 40 exhibits and even watch live demonstrations of ‘smithing’, rug hooking and baking with the ‘New Brunswicker’ wood stove.
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5804 Route 102, Prince William (20 minutes west of Fredericton)
Mactaquac Provincial Park
Mactaquac Provincial Park is a little different from other parks in New Brunswick. Like other provincial parks, there are great hiking trails, a wonderful beach, campsites. However there is also an 18-hole championship golf course right in the park, the TreeGO Mactaquac Aerial Adventure, plus the MOCO Mactaquac restaurant.
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1265 NB 105, Mactaquac
Delish Gourmet Rolled Ice Cream
Hand-rolled ice cream took the internet by storm and it is still amazing to watch cream, fruit, chocolate and more turn from liquid into ice cream. Pick your flavours and toppings to create your own unique ice cream at Delish Gourmet Rolled Ice Cream.
349 King Street, Fredericton
Fredericton Farmers Market
Looking different due to Covid-19, the Fredericton Farmers Market is still a ‘must visit’ on Saturday morning. Farmers and producers from around Fredericton come together with some of the freshest and best produce. Some vendors are offering pickup and delivery.
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665 George Street, Fredericton
The Cultural Market
The Cultural Market is well-known as a one-stop shop for delicious cuisine from across the globe and locally made products. Open Monday to Saturday, The Cultural Market is ‘must visit’ for foodies and those looking for a unique experience.
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435 King Street, Fredericton
Fredericton Botanic Garden
Credit: Fredericton Botanic Garden Association
Stop and smell the gorgeous roses along with many other beautifully fragrant flowers in the heart of Fredericton. The Fredericton Botanic Garden was established in 1990 and has continued to grow over the last 30 years.
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Prospect Street, Fredericton
No Escape
Test your problem solving skills in one of three unique themed rooms. Test your skills against the clock and see if you can escape. You can also challenge your friends to some board games in the Unplugged Board Game Cafe after making your way out of the escape room.
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418 Queen Street Fredericton
Atlantic Archery Centre and Capital City Paintball
Take aim and test your paintball and archery skills at one location. Offering both outdoor and indoor fields and ranges, weather doesn’t stop the fun at Atlantic Archery Centre and Capital City Paintball. Rent your equipment or head to the pro shop to buy your own kit.
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16 Dorcas St, Fredericton
Wolastoq Boat Tour
Take in the view of city and enjoy a relaxing on the Saint John River. Spend two hours cruising up and down the river on with the staff of the Wolastoq Boat Tour. The tours are now licensed, so you can enjoy a cold drink on the river.
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Regent Street Wharf, Fredericton
Hartt Island Campground
Right on the banks of the Saint John River, there is a lot for visitors to do at Hartt Island Campground. Relax by the heated leisure pool, zip down the water slides and play some mini golf. Second Nature Outdoors is close by offering river adventures including kayak, canoe and paddle board rentals.
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2475 Woodstock Road, Fredericton
The Drome by Trailway
Bowling and beer is a wonderful combo and The Drome offers both under one roof. It is also the only place you can try Candlepin Kolsh, the beer brewed specifically for The Drome. If The Drome wasn’t the perfect place for a night out, there is also an on-site restaurant and lounge where you can relax and have a bite to eat.
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301 Main Street, Fredericton
William’s Seafood Restaurant
Open for almost 50 years, William’s Seafood Restaurant is a staple in Fredericton. The hand cut homemade fries are made daily from the best local potatoes and the seafood is fresh from the local fishing boats. They also have special days for members of the military and seniors.
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397 Smythes Street, Fredericton
Everett Family Orchard
Just minutes from Fredericton, you can pick your own apples at the Everett Family Orchard. Pick from over 15 apple varieties throughout apple season. You can also take in the breathtaking views of horses on the farm, the Saint John River Valley and Keswick Island.
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34 Everett Lane, Fredericton
Kingswood Entertainment Centre
Get ready for a jammed packed day of family fun at Atlantic Canada’s largest family entertainment centre. Run around the 45-foot long inflatable obstacle course, test your skills in the arcade, and candle-pin bowling. They also offer lazer tag and a golf course. If this sounds like too much to do in one day, they just opened an on-site hotel, so you can book a room and stay overnight.
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1700 Kingswood Way, Hanwell
NB Military History Museum
Explore the history of New Brunswick’s military forces from 1600s to the present.
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1 Walnut Street
Building A-5, Oromocto
Fort Hughes Military Blockhouse
Visit Oromocto’s historic riverfront and see a replica of Fort Hughes, a American Revolutionary War blockhouse. The replica building is loacted near its original location beside the Oromocto River in the Sir Douglas Hazen Park.
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13, 15 Wharf Rd, Oromocto
Westfield Beach
Relax on the banks of the Saint John River, where the Maliseet people trapped and gathered every summer. Explore the Heritage Trail to learn more about traders and how the railway changed the town forever.
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4 Ferry Road, Grand Bay-Westfield
Irving Nature Park
A short drive outside of Saint John is the lovely Irving Nature Park. This 600 acre park features amazing views of the Bay of Fundy, a beach, a bog, a salt marsh and a forest. There are approximately 250 different species of birds that stay in the park, so it is a great spot for birdwatchers.
1790 Sand Cove Rd, Saint John
Stonehammer UNESCO Global GeoPark
Formed by the last ice age, this natural playground offers something for everyone. Watch the highest tides in the world, climb 554 million year lava rocks, paddle over future fossils and much more around this huge GeoPark.
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Various locations around Saint John
TimberTop Adventures
Credit: TimberTop Adventures
Take a walk on the wild side, high up in the air at TimberTop Adventures. You have 3 full hours to go wild exploring 11 courses, 25 zip challenges, and 110 other obstacles. TimberTop Adventures makes treetop adventures an exciting, unique climbing experience for everyone.
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730 Dominion Park Road, Saint John
New Brunswick Museum
Pay a visit to the New Brunswick Museum, which is Canada’s oldest continuing museum since it was built in 1842. Over the years, the museum has moved 4 times and been renamed 3 times. Today, the museum has an amazing natural sciences’ collection and one of the largest collections of 19th-century decorative arts and Canadiana in the Atlantic provinces.
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Market Square, Saint John
Carleton Martello Tower National Historic Site
Credit: Parks Canada
Get a birds eye view of Saint John when you visit British-built Carleton Martello Tower that dates from the War of 1812. Enjoy spectacular city and harbour views and explore award-winning interactive exhibits in the Visitor Centre. Details
454 Whipple St, Saint John
Moosehead Brewery Tour
Book a tour of Canada’s oldest major brewery in Canada that is still owned by Canadians. It was started by Susannah Oland in 1867 as a small craft brewery and has survived many setbacks over the years. Today, Moosehead Breweries Limited brews 15 kinds of beer that you can enjoy in their taproom after the tour and purchase some to take home with you.
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89 Main Street West, Saint John
Zipline over the Reversing Rapids
Credit: Reversing Falls Zip Line
Watch the Reversing Rapids’ whirlpools and waves below as you zip along at the Saint John Adventure Zipline. There are five lines to pick from to travel across at around 40km/hr. The Signature Zip is 670 feet across the water. Details
50 Fallsview Avenue, Saint John
Saint John City Market
Go shopping at the oldest continuing market in North America, which is open six days a week. Make sure to take time to visit all the vendors in the market, so you can find the best bargains. There are cafes, crafts, fresh produce, and meat along with many more items for you to look at on-site.
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37 Charlotte Street, Saint John
Uncorked Saint John
Take the 3-hour long tour with Saint John Uncorked. Your experience will include great local wine, craft beer, cider, spirits, charcuterie, and seafood from fantastic food and drink establishments in the city. This tour is an experience not to be missed when visiting Saint John.
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Skywalk Saint John
Credit: Discover Saint John
Walk 28 ft past the cliff edge on stainless steel rooftop observation platform constructed with sections of glass floor. Witness where 1.2 billion year old Precambrian age marble from South America collided with 515 million-year-old igneous rock of the Caledonia terrain from Africa.
200 Bridge Road, Saint John
Gondola Point Beach
Spend the day, relaxing on the banks on the Kennebecasis River. Gondola Point Beach is a freshwater beach with a sandbar where you can walk and look for shells. You can also spot the Gondola Point Cable Ferry from the beach.
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Quispamsis
Quilt Barn Tour
Quilt made using ties donated by CBC News host Peter Mansbridge. Credit:Quilt Barn Tour
Tour Kings County in a unique way. There are 19 locations around Kings County that are home to a quilt block. The stops on this patchwork path highlight local artisans, churches, historic sites, and other important locations in Kings County.
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Various Venues, Kings County
Firefly Forest Campground
Home to Atlantic Canada’s largest miniature golf course, along with a swimming pool and golf driving range, Firefly Forest is a wonderful place to camp out without roughing it in the woods. Close by to Hampton and Highway #1, it is the perfect base camp for starting out on the Southern part of the River Valley Scenic Drive.
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64 Robertson Rd, Hampton
Zelda’s Kennebecasis River Adventures
Credit: Zelda’s Kennebecasis River Adventures
Relax as you float down aboard an eco-friendly 260 sq. ft. pontoon boat along the twisting Kennebecasis River and see parts of Stonehammer GeoPark. You can choose from the three tours that Zelda’s Kennebecasis River Adventures offer or create your own custom tour to explore this beautiful river.
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1075 Main Street, Hampton
McGregor Brook Blueberries U-Pick
Grab a bucket and pick your own fresh blueberries from the patch surrounded by the evergreen forest. McGregor Brook farm grows nine varieties of blueberries. Berries are ripe from early August to September.
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325 McGregor Brook Road, Mount Herbon
Sussex Murals
Explore 27 panoramic scenes telling the larger-than-life stories at the Mural Capital of Atlantic Canada.
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Sussex
Sussex Craft Distillery
Using simple molasses and sugar cane to make a premium rum, the Sussex Craft Distillery opened its door in 2017 to make small batch spirits using high quality local ingredients. They also serve Maple Rum liqueur made from local molasses and maple syrup. Stop in during your trip and taste the history of the area in every drink.
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119 Cougle Rd, Sussex Corner
Agricultural Museum of New Brunswick
Farming was and still is a staple of New Brunswick’s economy, so the Agricultural Museum of New Brunswick celebrates farmers and the farming communities in the province. The museum features pieces from before the 1970’s. If you visit at the end of September, the Museum holds a Harvest Days demonstration that showcases how the tools were used on working farms.
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28 Perry Street, Sussex
