When you mention a trip to Canada, you’ll probably get a long list of recommended destinations to choose from. These attractions are so popular all over the world that most tourists often seek them out first. But, if you want to see a new attraction or try different activities, don’t worry there are plenty of hidden gems worth exploring in the country. Check out this list of lesser-known destinations that you need to add to your itinerary for your next trip to Canada.

Waterton Lakes National Park

When it comes to the most popular national parks in Canada, Banff usually tops the list in tourists’ minds. If not, they usually head to Jasper or Lake Louise. While these are spectacular national parks renowned worldwide for their unparalleled beauty, Waterton Lakes National Park is equally stunning. 

It’s located a few hours from Calgary in the province of Alberta, and it’s known for providing a stunning drive that takes people through beautiful mountain scenery. Waterton Lakes National Park is not exactly a hidden gem, but it certainly deserves more attention than it is currently getting as it is overshadowed by other tourist attractions. 

Thunder Bay, Ontario

This town in Ontario boasts of gorgeous natural scenery that makes it hard to understand why it’s not as popular as other major destinations like Toronto. The Kakabeka Falls is the main attraction in Thunder Bay. While not as tall as Niagara Falls, it comes with a beautiful canyon, spectacular hiking trails, and a strong surge of water falling from the mountain above. Other notable attractions near this town include the Sleeping Giant Provincial Park, Ouimet Canyon, and the legendary restaurant Hoito.

While there are many new developments in terms of real estate in this area, Thunder Bay continues to be a hidden gem. But, with many new condos rising in Toronto and the surrounding cities, it’s only a matter of time before this attraction gains more attention from tourists. 

Prince Edward County

Prince Edward County is another hidden gem located on the north shore of Lake Ontario. This area is noted for its rural lifestyle with an urban twist. It has a coastline that is known for its sandy beaches and towering limestone cliffs, and it’s a great destination for those seeking out artisan goods because they will find plenty of antique shops and boutiques in the area. Aside from beaches and artisan products, Prince Edward County also offers other attractions including the Macaulay Heritage Park and The Regent Theatre. 

Okanagan Valley

Located in British Columbia, Okanagan Valley epitomizes what a hidden gem is in Canada. This is a notable destination among wine lovers because this region is filled with stunning wineries and wine cellars. In addition, there are plenty of ski resorts in the area. As the westernmost province in Canada, this valley enjoys warm weather all year round (in comparison to the rest of the country). There is something for everyone here, especially those looking for a laid-back escape.

Fort Macleod

Fort Macleod is a must-visit for anyone interested in history and culture. It is located a couple of hours to the south of Calgary in Alberta. Fort Macleod is a Designated Historic Area within the province, and this alone makes it a worthwhile visit. When you explore the area, you will find many significant Old West buildings that are architecturally preserved. Don’t forget to visit the Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Badlands in Saskatchewan

The province of Saskatchewan in Canada is home to a variety of natural gems, and the Badlands is one of them. If you want to experience the beauty and vastness of the region, there is no better destination than this. In particular, you will find unique land formations such as caves and buttes. Aside from the natural beauty of the Badlands, Saskatchewan also has an interesting indigenous history. You can explore the same cliffs and caves that the bandits and outlaws from the earlier days of Saskatchewan once roamed around in. 

The province is also home to another notable destination – the Dinosaur Provincial Park. This park is noted for having the richest collection of dinosaur fossils in the world.

Churchill Polar Bears

Churchill in Manitoba is known as the world’s polar bear capital. This is only one of the few settlements in the world wherein you can observe wild polar bears. You can go on a tour to see polar bears in their natural habitat, or you can stay in a wilderness lodge and enjoy the experience of having polar bears right outside your doorstep. Either way, this is an opportunity of a lifetime that you simply cannot pass up. 

Aside from the polar bears, there are a variety of wild animal species that you can spot during your time in Churchill. Some of them include bison, elks, whales, and more. As a bonus, you might also get to see the Northern Lights at night!

Plan your next adventure to Canada by exploring these hidden gems!