Friendliest communities (and towns) in Canada

Canada is famous for being a friendly place—which they’re rightly proud of. The more friends, the better, they say. And if you’re looking to make new friends, you’ll easily find them in these top Canadian communities. Based on verified Expedia user reviews, we’ve compiled the top towns, cities, and communities based on friendly hotel staff with welcoming attitudes and an amiable air. Ranked from highest to lowest on our 5-star rating system, here are the loveliest places in Canada:

01

Carp, Ontario

Considered one of the friendliest communities in Canada, this town is known for its weekly farmers’ market from April to October, as well as attractions like the Diefenbunker Cold War Museum and the Carp Fair. Head to The Cheshire Cat restaurant, just 5.5 miles (9 km) out of town, to meet new pals. Or, if you’d like to stick closer to home, locals rave about The Swan at Carp in the heart of the village.

02

North Hatley, Quebec

Antique shops and brick-lined buildings give the waterfront town of North Hatley an unmistakable charm, so perhaps it isn’t surprising that so many people travelling through the city have commented on its friendliness. Get to the know the people yourself when you explore the Emporium North Hatley antique store, catch a show at The Piggery Theatre, or enjoy a stroll on the lawn at the Manoir Hovey hotel.

03

Bayfield, Ontario

Bobbing boats, charming boutiques, and ringing bicycle bells make it easy to think you’re in some kind of fairytale when you’re walking through Bayfield. Perhaps this is why it’s regarded as one of the friendliest cities in Canada. Go ahead and get to know the town when you rent a boat at South Shore Marina or explore Pioneer Park, or attend the popular Blyth Festival Theatre.

04

Miscouche, Prince Edward Island

Salty air and white steeples make Miscouche a picturesque destination that happens to be filled with friendly folks. When you’re in the small town, make a stop at the Acadian Museum and order a delicious waffle at the Country Oven Bakery and Cafe. Yes, you can expect lots of whipped cream and fresh berries on top.

05

Malahat, British Columbia

This small village has wide open spaces and a peace of mind that’s missing in so many cities. Get to know this friendly place when you hike through Goldstream Provincial Park and Spectacle Lake Provincial Park before checking into a local hotel.

06

Taber, Alberta

All that sweetcorn must have rubbed off on the people, because Taber, Alberta, gets high marks for being a friendly town on the prairies. Discover it personally by walking through the “Corn Capital of Canada” on your way to Cornfest, or hop in a car and head to the popular Taber Drive-In.

07

Annapolis Royal, Nova Scotia

With a historic past and a modern day boardwalk, Annapolis Royal is a friendly place for all travellers. Meet some of the townspeople when you check out the ARTSPLACE Gallery, King’s Theatre, and Historic Gardens.

08

Quispamsis, New Brunswick

They say that exercise does wonders for the mood, so it’s no surprise that Quispamsis is regarded as such a friendly place. Check out the numerous trails and parks (like Arts and Culture Park), before ducking into local haunts like the Smoking Pig BBQ.

09

Chemainus, British Columbia

Considered “Muraltown”, Chemainus is peppered with dozens of colorful murals that will brighten anyone’s day. Go on a walking tour to see them all at your leisure. Then, when you need a break, head to the Theatre Festival for live performing arts and music.

10

Bancroft, Ontario

Drawing visitors year-round because of its distinct four seasons, Bancroft has become a favourite hotspot. With friendly people and tons to do, it’s highly worth a visit. Sign up for a Bancroft Studio Tour to discover local artists or experience nature through Highland Wilderness Tours. Also, take some time to walk through the scenic Algonquin Park.

11

Weyburn, Saskatchewan

With strong family and community values, Weyburn is one of the most pleasant cities in Canada, and great for a weekend jaunt. Take some time to visit the Heritage Village and learn more about the region, take pictures in front of the Pioneer Woman Sculpture, and treat yourself to a great meal at Joey’s Seafood Restaurant.

12

Port Coquitlam, British Columbia

Small town charm and friendly people make Port Coquitlam a great choice for a weekend trip through B.C. Take your time picking out fruits at the Farmers’ Market, see what’s new at Leigh Square Community Arts Village, and go for a walk on the PoCo Trail. Head to the Evergreen Cultural Centre just outside of town to see live music and dance performances.

13

Liverpool, Nova Scotia

Colonial houses and folk art make Liverpool not just a friendly place, but a pretty one at that. Come visit for Privateer Days, or head straight to the Fort Point Lighthouse Park and Hank Snow Home Town Museum.

14

Membertou, Nova Scotia

Home to the Mi’kmaw Nation, this town is one of the most sustainable and friendliest communities in Cape Breton. Get to know the history of the people when you visit Membertou Heritage Park, and meet the locals at favourite spots like Kiju’s Restaurant and Dozay’s Native Art Gallery.

15

Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario

With easy access to regional cuisines and the dramatic Niagara Falls, it’s no wonder so many people find Niagara-on-the-Lake to be a super friendly town. While you’re here, make a stop at Corks, the Benchmark Restaurant, and the Shaw Festival Theatre.

16

Grand Falls, New Brunswick

Grand Falls locals are happy to tell you about Grand Falls Gorge. This pretty spot—which you can see by hiking, kayaking, or ziplining—is a favourite around these parts. Of course, the Grand Falls Museum and Grand Falls Golf Club are also worth visiting when you’re in this welcoming place.

17

Pender Island, British Columbia

With epic sunsets that ripple in golds and pinks on the ocean, you can bet that Pender Island is a relaxing place. When you add in the beautiful scenery, it’s easy to see why people here are in such good spirits. Check out the incredible views for yourself, as well as the Pender Islands Museum.

18

Boischatel, Quebec

Fresh air has a way of relaxing the spirits, so perhaps it’s not that surprising that so many people in Boischatel are friendly. Between enjoying a round at the Academie de Golf Royal Quebec and exploring the Boischatel Cavern, it’s all about getting a little dirt on your shoes in these parts.

19

Saint-Faustin-Lac-Carre, Quebec

Good vibes are plentiful in Saint-Faustin-Lac-Carre when you find yourself skiing down Mont Blanc, golfing at Royal Laurentien Golf, or exploring the Centre Touristique et Educatif des Laurentides. See it all for yourself on your next trip to Quebec.

20

Golden Lake, Ontario

Golden Lake is bordered by townships and small communities full of friendly sorts. After spending the afternoon by the water, take some time to explore North Algona Wilberforce and Eganville in Bonnechere Valley, which also get high marks for their welcoming communities.

21

Bathurst, New Brunswick

Located on Chaleur Bay, Bathurst is a town made for families and travellers. Enjoy your day at the Gowan Brae Golf and Country Club, stroll through the Bathurst Marina, and check out the Bathurst Heritage Museum. You can’t help but have a smile on your face when you see everything this charming town has to offer.

22

Chateau-Richer, Quebec

Nestled on the shoreline of the Saint Lawrence River, Chateau-Richer is a friendly place with salty air and good spirits. See the area for yourself when you explore the Albert Gilles Copper Art Studio and Centre d’Interpretation de la Cote-de-Beaupre, or hit the track at Karting Chateau-Richer.

23

Thorold, Ontario

Maybe it’s the free maple cream cookies at the Lock 7 Viewing Centre, maybe it’s the welcoming nightlife, maybe it’s the fresh mountain air—whatever it is, Thorold is one of the friendliest cities in Canada. Get to know it by watching boats travel up the Viewing Complex (the highest part of the canal), and enjoy local eateries like Cracker Jack’s.

24

Minden, Ontario

With the cross-country ski trails in winter and the cool lakes in summer, Minden is an escape from the hustle of everyday life. Perhaps this is why the community is so friendly and easygoing. Discover it for yourself when you walk down the Minden Riverwalk and Gull River.

25

Saint-Hyacinthe, Quebec

With manicured gardens and quaint avenues, Saint-Hyacinthe is beautiful city, not to mention a friendly one. Feel the charm when you’re walking through the Jardin Daniel A. Seguin, an expansive floral park, and attend the Festival Agrirock.

Travelling is about new sights and sounds and experiences. Why not throw in a few new friends while you’re at it? When you visit the top friendliest cities in Canada, you never know—you might just meet your next best friend.