Friendliest Communities (and Towns) in Canada

Canada is famous for being a friendly place—which we’re more than proud about! The more friends, the better, we say. And if you’re looking to make new friends, you can find them in these top Canadian communities. Based on 2015 verified Expedia user reviews, we found 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 nicest places in Canada:

1. 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 Museum and the Carp Fair. Grab some suds at Cheshire Cat Pub just 9 km out of town, and toast with some 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.

2. 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, catch a show at The Piggery Theatre, or grab a pint at Manoir Hovey.

3. 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, explore Pioneer Park, or attend the popular Blyth Festival.

4. 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 grab a waffle at Country Oven. Yes, you can expect lots of whipped cream and fresh berries on top.

5. Malahat, British Columbia

This small village has wide open spaces and a peace of mind 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 Moon Water Lodge.

6. Taber, Alberta

All that sweet corn must have rubbed off on the people, because Taber, Alberta, gets high marks for being a friendly town on the prairies. Get to know it personally when you walk through the “Corn Capital of Canada” on your way to Cornfest, or hop in a car and head to popular John’s Drive in.

7. 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 ARTsPlace, King’s Theatre, Historic Gardens, and local favourite Leo’s Café.

8. Quispamsis, New Brunswick

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

9. Chemainus, British Columbia

Considered “Muraltown,” Chemainus is peppered with dozens of colorful murals that can make anyone’s day. Go on a walking tour to see them all at your leisure. Then, when you need a break, pop into Gringo’s Outdoor Grill for dinner and see more art and performances at the Theatre Festival.

10. Bancroft, Ontario

Drawing visitors year-round because of its distinct four seasons, Bancroft has become a favourite not-so-hidden-gem. 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. Take some time to walk through Algonquin Park before hitting up Blue Roof Bistro.

11. Weyburn, Saskatchewan

With strong family values and ties to the community, Weyburn is one of the nicest cities in Canada, and perfect 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 some seafood at Joey’s.

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 take some time to visit the Fort Point Lighthouse Park and Hank Snow Hometown 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 favorite spots like Kiju’s Restaurant and Dozay’s Native Art Gallery.

15. Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario

With easy access to regional wine and the ethereal 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 Wine Bar, Benchmark Restaurant, and try to make it in time for the Shaw Festival.

16. Grand Falls, New Brunswick

While it may be a hidden gem to the rest of the country, 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 worth a visit as well when you’re in this welcoming place.

17. Pender Island, British Columbia

With epic sunsets that ripple golds and pinks on the ocean, you can bet that Pender Island is a relaxing place. When you add in wine from the local Sea Star Vineyard, it’s easy to see why people here are in such good spirits. Check out the vineyard for yourself, as well as the Pender Islands Museum, and don’t forget to head to Jo’s Place for some English-inspired eats, including the classic Bubble and Squeak.

18. Boischatel, Quebec

Fresh air has a way of relaxing the spirits, so perhaps it’s not that surprising why so many people in Boischatel are friendly. Between swinging at the Club de Golf Royal Quebec and cave diving down 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 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 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, hike 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, Centre d’interpretation de la Cote-de-Beaupre, and Karting Chateau-Richer.

23. Thorold, Ontario

Maybe it’s the free maple cream cookies at the Lock 7 Viewing Complex, 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, when you watch boats travel up the Viewing Complex (the highest part of the canal), and hit local spots like The Karma Kameleon Gastropub and 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 bustle of everyday life. Perhaps this is why the community is so friendly and easygoing! Get to know it 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.

Traveling 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, who knows what’s possible!