Chetwynd, British Columbia<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\n![\"\"](\"http:\/\/expedia.blog.ca.local\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/Resize-01-Biking.jpg\")
Population 2,600<\/em><\/p>\nLocated at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, the evergreen trees and wood statues of Chetwynd stand out against a postcard blue sky. It feels fresh, new, and clean\u2014the perfect place to cheers to a new year. As you\u2019re walking around, do you spy all those intricately carved statues around town? The International Chainsaw Carving Championship takes place in Chetwynd every summer. Keep your eyes open for roughly 120 (and counting) carvings around town. Other great things to do around town include: Going for a bike ride along Deer Point Trail (.2 km) or Connector Trail (12 km), grabbing some grub and meeting the locals at the popular Red Lion Restaurant, and getting to know town\u2019s history at Little Prairie Heritage Museum.<\/p>\n
Prince Rupert, British Columbia<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\nPopulation 12,508<\/em><\/p>\nFor an ocean-blue seaside town, there\u2019s a healthy dose of reds that pop out against the cool landscape. Red roofs, red railings, red chairs\u2026it\u2019s enough of a jolt to remind you that, while it may be a small seaside town, it\u2019s anything but sleepy. While you\u2019re here, check out the Museum of Northern BC to see artifacts from the fur trading era. Grab a drink at 30-years-and-running Breakers Pub along the water, or test the hops at Wheelhouse Brewing Company. Learn about the town\u2019s history at the North Pacific Cannery Historic Site, which honours the longest operated cannery in the country. And be sure to grab a bite at Rodhos Pizza, a local favourite for over 20 years.<\/p>\n
Beaumont, Alberta<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\n![\"\"](\"http:\/\/expedia.blog.ca.local\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/Resize-02-Bounce-House.jpg\")
Population: 17,396<\/em><\/p>\nOpen spaces, friendly people, and the kind of place that truly welcomes families of all shapes and sizes. We\u2019re talking about Beaumont, Alberta. For Canada Day, it\u2019s celebrating the 150th<\/sup> anniversary with bouncy houses, live entertainment, food trucks, a family dance, and a fireworks show. While you\u2019re in town, take home a piece of art from The Painted Door on Main, which features a troupe of artists and creators. And remember to stretch your legs on the trail system that runs over 22 km through town, including around Don Sparrow Lake.<\/p>\nCamrose, Alberta<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\nPopulation: 18,742<\/em><\/p>\nYou can usually hear Camrose before you see it, as it plays host to major events like Big Valley Jamboree. With its location in the heart of Alberta, you can enjoy all the perks of a town, while never being too far from hiking trails and scenic parks. You\u2019ll want to make your way to Rudy Swanson Recreation Park during Canada Day, where the 150th<\/sup> anniversary will be celebrated with festivities starting at 9:30am, and concluding with a fireworks production at dusk. Aside from the 150th<\/sup> party, you\u2019ll want to catch a performance at Bailey Theatre, and see pieces of history like replicas of a 1906 school and 1898 pioneer log house at the Camrose and District Centennial Museum, which is celebrating its 50th birthday in 2017.<\/p>\nSylvan Lake, Alberta<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\n![\"\"](\"http:\/\/expedia.blog.ca.local\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/Resize-03-Farmers-Market.jpg\")
Population: 14,816<\/em><\/p>\nStuck in the middle with you is what Sylvan Lake counts on. With Calgary roughly 150 km to the south and Edmonton roughly 150 km to the north, the shoreline town of Sylvan Lake provides a healthy escape from big city life on your getaway. Breathe in that fresh air when you go for a stroll in Sylvan Lake Provincial Park. Race the kids and make new memories at Lakeside Go Karts. Take a bite out of life at the Sylvan Lake Farmers Market. And when you feel the summer heat beating down, cool off at Sylvan Lake Aqua Splash.<\/p>\n
Bracebridge, Ontario<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\nPopulation: 16,010<\/em><\/p>\nLocated on a hilltop overlooking the Muskoka River, Bracebridge is a charming town, with red bricked buildings, old-fashioned street lights, and a sense of wild nature just around the edges. For Canada Day, make your way to Bracebridge Bay, where Rotary Fireworks will paint the sky blues, greens, purples, and yellows in honour of the 150th<\/sup> anniversary. Now, despite it being the peak of summer, it doesn\u2019t mean you can\u2019t look forward to Christmas already. Stop into Santa\u2019s Village (which opens for the season on July 1st<\/sup>), where you can eat lunch with Santa and ride mini rollercoasters and trains. Other top attractions of town include splashing around at Kirby\u2019s Beach, making your own candle souvenirs at Rich Hill Candles, and putting away at Northern Escapades Mini Golf.<\/p>\nCochrane, Ontario<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\n![\"\"](\"http:\/\/expedia.blog.ca.local\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/Resize-04-Polar-Bear.jpg\")
Population: 5,340<\/em><\/p>\nAs the birthplace of hockey great Tim Horton and the home of the renowned Polar Bear Habitat, it doesn\u2019t get more Canadian than the small town of Cochrane. Beat the summer heat when you visit the magnificent creatures at the Polar Bear Habitat, or pop into Heritage Village to scout for antique treasures. Stay tuned for what Cochrane has in store for 150th<\/sup>. Last year, the town celebrated with a Round the Lake Swim, face painting, sand castle building contest, beach volleyball, and fireworks.<\/p>\nThe Pas, Manitoba<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\nPopulation: 5,513<\/em><\/p>\nFor Canada Day, get in touch with a sense of the past when you visit The Pas. It\u2019s one of the oldest settlements in northern Manitoba, when it was incorporated in 1912. Not only is it historic, with its location only 20 km from Clearwater Lake\u2014which as the name suggests has crystal clear water\u2014the landscape is overwhelmingly lovely as well. Learn more about the town and see eccentric memorabilia when you visit the Sam Waller Museum, and be sure to catch a film at one of the longest running movie theatres in North America when you visit Lido Theatre.<\/p>\n
Port Hope, Ontario<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\n![\"\"](\"http:\/\/expedia.blog.ca.local\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/Resize-05-Flag.jpg\")
Via Flickr\/John Vetterli<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\nPopulation: 16,214<\/em><\/p>\nWith a mix of local pride, a calendar full of festivals and events, and a ton of charm, you don\u2019t want to miss a stop into Port Hope, Ontario. The town is celebrating the 150th<\/sup> anniversary with a parade, followed by celebrations at Memorial Park. This will include classic cars and antique machinery on display, along with food vendors, enough\u00a0birthday cake to feed the town, live music, kid-friendly activities, and fireworks on the beach. While you\u2019re in the city, see works of beauty at the Art Gallery of Northumberland. Check out local artifacts at the Dorothy House Museum. Find treasures for your home when you pop into the several antique shops downtown. And learn more about the brave men and women who\u2019ve served in the fire department at the Canadian Fire Fighters Museum.<\/p>\nNipawin, Saskatchewan<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\nPopulation: 4,265<\/em><\/p>\nThere are some traditions that simply must be passed down in person. Casting your line and capturing a whopper of a fish is one of those rites of passage. And there\u2019s no better place to do it than the town of Nipawin, Saskatchewan. Located a short drive to Tobin Lake, this place is all about long summer afternoons along the water\u2019s edge, waiting for walleye and pike fish to bite on the line. This July is shaping up to be an even bigger draw with Canada Day celebrations. Nipawin Museum is the focal point of the day, with a flag raising, silent auction, food booths, and freshly baked bread in the antique clay ovens. You can also look forward to a bouncy castle and climbing wall for the kiddos, live music, and free birthday cake to honour the country\u2019s big day.<\/p>\n
Riverview, New Brunswick<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\n![\"\"](\"http:\/\/expedia.blog.ca.local\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/Resize-06-Hiking.jpg\")
Population: 19,667<\/em><\/p>\nSome cities are about seeing what life was like at the turn of the century. Riverview is about experiencing the past up close. This includes a visit to Kings Landing Historical Settlement, where you\u2019ll actually saw wood among other vintage tasks. While you\u2019re in town, go for a hike along Dobson Trail, and get that perfect hole-in-one at Moncton Golf & Country Club.<\/p>\n
Woodstock, New Brunswick<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\nPopulation: 5,254<\/em><\/p>\nYou might not see the Grateful Dead in Woodstock, New Brunswick, but you will see plenty of happy faces in this friendly town. Located on the banks of the St. Johns River and Meduxnekeag River, this quaint area offers a little haven from the hustle and bustle. Not only is this a cozy town, it\u2019s also one of New Brunswick\u2019s oldest, as it was the first official town of the province in 1856. While you\u2019re enjoying your summer getaway, find some fresh produce and homemade crafts at Woodstock Farm & Craft Market or see some local art at Creek Village Gallery & Caf\u00e9.<\/p>\n
Souris, Prince Edward Island<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\n![\"\"](\"http:\/\/expedia.blog.ca.local\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/Resize-07-Beach.jpg\")
Population: 1,173<\/em><\/p>\nWith scenic waters and a red-roofed lighthouse, the town of Souris offers a quiet summer getaway for the family. Get a taste of coastal living when you visit 21 Breakwater Restaurant and munch on freshly caught seafood. Bring out your irons when you putt at Rollo Bay Greens. Feel the sand between your toes when you walk along Singing Sands beach. And take a picture in front of Souris Lighthouse to make all your friends back home jealous.<\/p>\n
St. Andrews, New Brunswick<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\nPopulation: 1,889<\/em><\/p>\nWith its 200-year-old history, is it really a surprise that St. Andrews made it onto our 9 Charming Historic Towns<\/a> list? Yes, this quaint seaside refuge is known as a perfect summer destination when you want to kayak on the waves and hit the golf green. While you\u2019re here, sign up for a kayaking tour with St. Andrews by the Sea Adventure Center or go on a whale watching cruise with Jolly Breeze of St. Andrews. And don\u2019t forget to see local seals Loki and Snorkel up close when you visit the Fundy Discovery Aquarium.<\/p>\nSummerside, Prince Edward Island<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\n![\"\"](\"http:\/\/expedia.blog.ca.local\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/Resize-08-Pier.jpg\")
Population: 14,751<\/em><\/p>\nIt\u2019s the second largest city on Prince Edward Island, and has those filter-free backgrounds you crave on Instagram. We\u2019re talking about Summerside, which is home to a salt-splashed lighthouse, lively boardwalk, and splatter of jagged forest trees. If it\u2019s a summer getaway you\u2019re looking for, this place has the goods. Lace up your shoes and walk along Confederation Trail. Don\u2019t worry; the gradient never goes up more than two percent. Learn more about the town\u2019s history at the five Wyatt Heritage Properties historical sites. This includes the Lefurgey Cultural Centre, Bishop\u2019s Machine Shop Museum & Historic Site, MacNaught History Centre and Archives, the International Fox Museum and Hall of Fame, and Wyatt Historic House Museum. And once it\u2019s time to eat, make sure you indulge in fresh oysters and mussels at local favourite OpenEats.<\/p>\n
Yarmouth, Nova Scotia<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\n![\"\"](\"http:\/\/expedia.blog.ca.local\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/Yarmouth_TownofYarmouth.jpg\")
Via Town of Yarmouth<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\nPopulation: 6,518<\/em><\/p>\nNestled between French-speaking Arcadie and English-speaking port towns, Yarmouth is the talk of the town. It\u2019s home to the biggest fishing fleet in the country and offers charming views of wind-whipped buildings next to crashing waves. Get to know the town with an interactive tour at the Firefighters\u2019 Museum of Nova Scotia, where you\u2019ll sit in a 1933 Chev Bickle pumper. See the city from beyond the oar when you sign up for a Song of the Paddle tour. And learn more about local history by checking out over 20,000 artifacts at the Yarmouth County Museum and Archives. Fun fact: The museum has the third largest ship portrait collection in the country.<\/p>\n
Dawson City, Yukon<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\n![\"\"](\"http:\/\/expedia.blog.ca.local\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/Resize-09-Pancake.jpg\")
Population: 1,319<\/em><\/p>\nWith one foot in the past and one foot on its way to a late-night party, Dawson City is unlike anywhere else. It\u2019s an old mining town, but it has a sense of humour and dash of whimsy. The city is getting into the spirit of Canada Day by offering a pancake breakfast to start the day followed by a parade, live music, and free activities that will last throughout the year. Last year\u2019s festivities included a flag-raising ceremony, gold panning contest, bike rodeo, and country picnic, so you can count on a good time. While you\u2019re in town, see relics from the Gold Rush at the Dawson City Museum, and don\u2019t miss the spirit of the wild at the Jack London Museum.<\/p>\n
Watson Lake, Yukon<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\nPopulation: 1,474<\/em><\/p>\nOut in the wild, Watson Lake was put on the map when the Alaska Highway put down its pavement in 1942. Today, the naked beauty hasn\u2019t changed, and if you want to really get away from it all, a Canada Day trip to this Yukon town offers the refuge you seek. The most famous attribute of Watson Lake is a rite of passage: the Sign Post Forest. Locals and travellers alike nail up small signs of their choosing\u2014resulting in a mural comprising over 72,000 signs and counting. While you\u2019re in town, see the Northern Lights but skip the winter snow. Stop into the Northern Lights Space and Science Centre, which features \u201cYukon\u2019s Northern Lights\u201d projected on the centre\u2019s domed screen every summer. You\u2019ll also want to cast off into Watson Lake, which has lake trout, northern pike, bull trout, rainbow trout, artic greyling, and kokanee salmon.<\/p>\n
Goderich, Ontario<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\n![\"\"](\"http:\/\/expedia.blog.ca.local\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/Resize-10-Picnic-1.jpg\")
Population: 7,521<\/em><\/p>\nIn case you haven\u2019t heard, Goderich, Ontario, is often ranked as one of the prettiest Canadian small towns. See what all the fuss is about when you look at its beauty from the seat of a bike or from the edge of a beach towel. For Canada Day, the city is going all out with their fireworks display on the beach on June 30th, then following that with a community picnic and parade on July 1st. While you\u2019re here, splash in the waves when you take a dip at the popular Cove Beach. Learn more about the city\u2019s pride when stopping into Huron County Museum\u2014a lifelong passion project by local hero Mr. Joseph Herbert Neill. And if you like your history with a dash of spooky, visit the Historic Gaol, an octagon-shape building that contained the former county jail.<\/p>\n
Canmore, Alberta<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\nPopulation: 13,992<\/em><\/p>\nWith pine-fresh air in your lungs and a yoga mat beneath your feet, your time in Canmore will breathe new life into the season. Sip up vitamins and sweet flavours with a stop at Mountain Juice Cafe, or grab a pint from the Grizzly Paw Pub & Brewing Company, which also offers craft sodas if you brought the kids. And after you\u2019ve spent time stretching in downward dog at places like Canmore Hot Yoga, hoist yourself on a steed with a horseback riding adventure via Boundary Ranch.<\/p>\n
Bowen Island, British Columbia<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\n![\"\"](\"http:\/\/expedia.blog.ca.local\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/Resize-11-Kayak-1.jpg\")
Population: 3,492<\/em><\/p>\nWe know a place far away from everyday cares, where you can feel like you\u2019re on your own island–perhaps because it is an island. We\u2019re talking about Bowen Island, British Columbia, a tree-sprinkled patch of beauty on the waters of Howe Sound. Bowen Island is planning its upcoming Canada Day festival. Last year included a family picnic, live music, and face painting, so you can count on a perfect afternoon with the kiddos. While you\u2019re in town, spend time at the marina at Snug Cove. Get those paddles ready for action when you sign up for a kayak tour with Bowen Island Kayaking. And see the island from a scooter when you rent a sweet ride from Zoom Zoom Bowen.<\/p>\n
Oliver, British Columbia<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\nPopulation: 4,824<\/em><\/p>\nEvery holiday is better with wine! This July, you won\u2019t want to skip a visit to Oliver, British Columbia, the \u201cWine Capital of Canada\u201d. Enjoy tastings at wineries like Hester Creek, Tinhorn Creek, and Burrowing Owl Estate Winery. When you\u2019re ready to walk it off, go for a hike among the cottonwoods at Inkaneep Provincial Park. And if you\u2019re more of a history buff, learn about the town\u2019s history\u2014and walk through the old-time jail\u2014when you visit the Oliver Museum.<\/p>\n
Almonte<\/strong>, Ontario<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\n![\"\"](\"http:\/\/expedia.blog.ca.local\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/Almonte.jpg\")
<\/p>\n
Resting on the banks of the Mississippi River, Almonte is a true blue Canadian town that maintains a 19th century downtown style, with plenty of modern attractions. Almonte\u2019s Canada Day celebrations are family affairs, with live music, family BBQ, and fireworks at Gemmill Park. While you\u2019re in town, find new treasures at Tin Barn Market or Nine Lives Antiques (Mill Street as a whole is home to a wealth of antique shops). You\u2019ll also want to make a stop into Mill Street Books, which has an excellent supply of children\u2019s stories. And when your tummy starts to rumble, split a platter of calamari and Italian dishes at the popular Cafe Postino.<\/p>\n
Bancroft, Ontario<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\nPopulation: 3,880<\/em><\/p>\nSitting on the tip of Hastings County at the south end of Algonquin Park, Bancroft is a tranquil, welcoming, and perfect small town for a summer getaway. For Canada Day, the town is gathering together at York River Millennium Park for a raucous fireworks show taking place at dusk. While you\u2019re in town, take in the quiet atmosphere as you hike, swim, or kayak at Silent Lake Provincial Park. Learn more about Bancroft\u2019s glittering past when you step into the Mineral Museum. And admire the talent of local artists when you see a performance at the Village Playhouse.<\/p>\n
Stanstead, <\/strong>Quebec<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\n![\"\"](\"http:\/\/expedia.blog.ca.local\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/Resize-13-Flowers.jpg\")
Population: 2,857<\/em><\/p>\nWe can\u2019t talk about Canada Day getaways without mentioning the luminescent Stanstead, Quebec. Wander through the charming town, which is filled with pops of colour from blooming flowers against pale brick architecture. Catch a show (and learn some things while you\u2019re here) when you stop into Haskell Free Library and Opera House. Walk through the intriguing and wondrous Stanstead Stone Circle, which takes its inspiration from Stonehenge. And finally, head north to Bleu Lavande, one of the largest lavender gardens in North America. July is peak lavender season, so don\u2019t miss a tour through the sweet-scented fields.<\/p>\n
This July, get out in the sunshine and revel in the celebrations. Sure, you can try to grab a spot in Ottawa<\/a> where all the ginormous fireworks are blasting off. But with rolling greens, lakeside blues, and even a few slices of colourful birthday cake for the 150th<\/sup>, these picks for Canada\u2019s best small towns are truly perfect for a summer getaway.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Population 2,600<\/em><\/p>\nLocated at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, the evergreen trees and wood statues of Chetwynd stand out against a postcard blue sky. It feels fresh, new, and clean\u2014the perfect place to cheers to a new year. As you\u2019re walking around, do you spy all those intricately carved statues around town? The International Chainsaw Carving Championship takes place in Chetwynd every summer. Keep your eyes open for roughly 120 (and counting) carvings around town. Other great things to do around town include: Going for a bike ride along Deer Point Trail (.2 km) or Connector Trail (12 km), grabbing some grub and meeting the locals at the popular Red Lion Restaurant, and getting to know town\u2019s history at Little Prairie Heritage Museum.<\/p>\n
Prince Rupert, British Columbia<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\nPopulation 12,508<\/em><\/p>\nFor an ocean-blue seaside town, there\u2019s a healthy dose of reds that pop out against the cool landscape. Red roofs, red railings, red chairs\u2026it\u2019s enough of a jolt to remind you that, while it may be a small seaside town, it\u2019s anything but sleepy. While you\u2019re here, check out the Museum of Northern BC to see artifacts from the fur trading era. Grab a drink at 30-years-and-running Breakers Pub along the water, or test the hops at Wheelhouse Brewing Company. Learn about the town\u2019s history at the North Pacific Cannery Historic Site, which honours the longest operated cannery in the country. And be sure to grab a bite at Rodhos Pizza, a local favourite for over 20 years.<\/p>\n
Beaumont, Alberta<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\nPopulation: 17,396<\/em><\/p>\nOpen spaces, friendly people, and the kind of place that truly welcomes families of all shapes and sizes. We\u2019re talking about Beaumont, Alberta. For Canada Day, it\u2019s celebrating the 150th<\/sup> anniversary with bouncy houses, live entertainment, food trucks, a family dance, and a fireworks show. While you\u2019re in town, take home a piece of art from The Painted Door on Main, which features a troupe of artists and creators. And remember to stretch your legs on the trail system that runs over 22 km through town, including around Don Sparrow Lake.<\/p>\nCamrose, Alberta<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\nPopulation: 18,742<\/em><\/p>\nYou can usually hear Camrose before you see it, as it plays host to major events like Big Valley Jamboree. With its location in the heart of Alberta, you can enjoy all the perks of a town, while never being too far from hiking trails and scenic parks. You\u2019ll want to make your way to Rudy Swanson Recreation Park during Canada Day, where the 150th<\/sup> anniversary will be celebrated with festivities starting at 9:30am, and concluding with a fireworks production at dusk. Aside from the 150th<\/sup> party, you\u2019ll want to catch a performance at Bailey Theatre, and see pieces of history like replicas of a 1906 school and 1898 pioneer log house at the Camrose and District Centennial Museum, which is celebrating its 50th birthday in 2017.<\/p>\nSylvan Lake, Alberta<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\nPopulation: 14,816<\/em><\/p>\nStuck in the middle with you is what Sylvan Lake counts on. With Calgary roughly 150 km to the south and Edmonton roughly 150 km to the north, the shoreline town of Sylvan Lake provides a healthy escape from big city life on your getaway. Breathe in that fresh air when you go for a stroll in Sylvan Lake Provincial Park. Race the kids and make new memories at Lakeside Go Karts. Take a bite out of life at the Sylvan Lake Farmers Market. And when you feel the summer heat beating down, cool off at Sylvan Lake Aqua Splash.<\/p>\n
Bracebridge, Ontario<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\nPopulation: 16,010<\/em><\/p>\nLocated on a hilltop overlooking the Muskoka River, Bracebridge is a charming town, with red bricked buildings, old-fashioned street lights, and a sense of wild nature just around the edges. For Canada Day, make your way to Bracebridge Bay, where Rotary Fireworks will paint the sky blues, greens, purples, and yellows in honour of the 150th<\/sup> anniversary. Now, despite it being the peak of summer, it doesn\u2019t mean you can\u2019t look forward to Christmas already. Stop into Santa\u2019s Village (which opens for the season on July 1st<\/sup>), where you can eat lunch with Santa and ride mini rollercoasters and trains. Other top attractions of town include splashing around at Kirby\u2019s Beach, making your own candle souvenirs at Rich Hill Candles, and putting away at Northern Escapades Mini Golf.<\/p>\nCochrane, Ontario<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\nPopulation: 5,340<\/em><\/p>\nAs the birthplace of hockey great Tim Horton and the home of the renowned Polar Bear Habitat, it doesn\u2019t get more Canadian than the small town of Cochrane. Beat the summer heat when you visit the magnificent creatures at the Polar Bear Habitat, or pop into Heritage Village to scout for antique treasures. Stay tuned for what Cochrane has in store for 150th<\/sup>. Last year, the town celebrated with a Round the Lake Swim, face painting, sand castle building contest, beach volleyball, and fireworks.<\/p>\nThe Pas, Manitoba<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\nPopulation: 5,513<\/em><\/p>\nFor Canada Day, get in touch with a sense of the past when you visit The Pas. It\u2019s one of the oldest settlements in northern Manitoba, when it was incorporated in 1912. Not only is it historic, with its location only 20 km from Clearwater Lake\u2014which as the name suggests has crystal clear water\u2014the landscape is overwhelmingly lovely as well. Learn more about the town and see eccentric memorabilia when you visit the Sam Waller Museum, and be sure to catch a film at one of the longest running movie theatres in North America when you visit Lido Theatre.<\/p>\n
Port Hope, Ontario<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\nVia Flickr\/John Vetterli<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\nPopulation: 16,214<\/em><\/p>\nWith a mix of local pride, a calendar full of festivals and events, and a ton of charm, you don\u2019t want to miss a stop into Port Hope, Ontario. The town is celebrating the 150th<\/sup> anniversary with a parade, followed by celebrations at Memorial Park. This will include classic cars and antique machinery on display, along with food vendors, enough\u00a0birthday cake to feed the town, live music, kid-friendly activities, and fireworks on the beach. While you\u2019re in the city, see works of beauty at the Art Gallery of Northumberland. Check out local artifacts at the Dorothy House Museum. Find treasures for your home when you pop into the several antique shops downtown. And learn more about the brave men and women who\u2019ve served in the fire department at the Canadian Fire Fighters Museum.<\/p>\nNipawin, Saskatchewan<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\nPopulation: 4,265<\/em><\/p>\nThere are some traditions that simply must be passed down in person. Casting your line and capturing a whopper of a fish is one of those rites of passage. And there\u2019s no better place to do it than the town of Nipawin, Saskatchewan. Located a short drive to Tobin Lake, this place is all about long summer afternoons along the water\u2019s edge, waiting for walleye and pike fish to bite on the line. This July is shaping up to be an even bigger draw with Canada Day celebrations. Nipawin Museum is the focal point of the day, with a flag raising, silent auction, food booths, and freshly baked bread in the antique clay ovens. You can also look forward to a bouncy castle and climbing wall for the kiddos, live music, and free birthday cake to honour the country\u2019s big day.<\/p>\n
Riverview, New Brunswick<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\nPopulation: 19,667<\/em><\/p>\nSome cities are about seeing what life was like at the turn of the century. Riverview is about experiencing the past up close. This includes a visit to Kings Landing Historical Settlement, where you\u2019ll actually saw wood among other vintage tasks. While you\u2019re in town, go for a hike along Dobson Trail, and get that perfect hole-in-one at Moncton Golf & Country Club.<\/p>\n
Woodstock, New Brunswick<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\nPopulation: 5,254<\/em><\/p>\nYou might not see the Grateful Dead in Woodstock, New Brunswick, but you will see plenty of happy faces in this friendly town. Located on the banks of the St. Johns River and Meduxnekeag River, this quaint area offers a little haven from the hustle and bustle. Not only is this a cozy town, it\u2019s also one of New Brunswick\u2019s oldest, as it was the first official town of the province in 1856. While you\u2019re enjoying your summer getaway, find some fresh produce and homemade crafts at Woodstock Farm & Craft Market or see some local art at Creek Village Gallery & Caf\u00e9.<\/p>\n
Souris, Prince Edward Island<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\nPopulation: 1,173<\/em><\/p>\nWith scenic waters and a red-roofed lighthouse, the town of Souris offers a quiet summer getaway for the family. Get a taste of coastal living when you visit 21 Breakwater Restaurant and munch on freshly caught seafood. Bring out your irons when you putt at Rollo Bay Greens. Feel the sand between your toes when you walk along Singing Sands beach. And take a picture in front of Souris Lighthouse to make all your friends back home jealous.<\/p>\n
St. Andrews, New Brunswick<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\nPopulation: 1,889<\/em><\/p>\nWith its 200-year-old history, is it really a surprise that St. Andrews made it onto our 9 Charming Historic Towns<\/a> list? Yes, this quaint seaside refuge is known as a perfect summer destination when you want to kayak on the waves and hit the golf green. While you\u2019re here, sign up for a kayaking tour with St. Andrews by the Sea Adventure Center or go on a whale watching cruise with Jolly Breeze of St. Andrews. And don\u2019t forget to see local seals Loki and Snorkel up close when you visit the Fundy Discovery Aquarium.<\/p>\nSummerside, Prince Edward Island<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\nPopulation: 14,751<\/em><\/p>\nIt\u2019s the second largest city on Prince Edward Island, and has those filter-free backgrounds you crave on Instagram. We\u2019re talking about Summerside, which is home to a salt-splashed lighthouse, lively boardwalk, and splatter of jagged forest trees. If it\u2019s a summer getaway you\u2019re looking for, this place has the goods. Lace up your shoes and walk along Confederation Trail. Don\u2019t worry; the gradient never goes up more than two percent. Learn more about the town\u2019s history at the five Wyatt Heritage Properties historical sites. This includes the Lefurgey Cultural Centre, Bishop\u2019s Machine Shop Museum & Historic Site, MacNaught History Centre and Archives, the International Fox Museum and Hall of Fame, and Wyatt Historic House Museum. And once it\u2019s time to eat, make sure you indulge in fresh oysters and mussels at local favourite OpenEats.<\/p>\n
Yarmouth, Nova Scotia<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\nVia Town of Yarmouth<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\nPopulation: 6,518<\/em><\/p>\nNestled between French-speaking Arcadie and English-speaking port towns, Yarmouth is the talk of the town. It\u2019s home to the biggest fishing fleet in the country and offers charming views of wind-whipped buildings next to crashing waves. Get to know the town with an interactive tour at the Firefighters\u2019 Museum of Nova Scotia, where you\u2019ll sit in a 1933 Chev Bickle pumper. See the city from beyond the oar when you sign up for a Song of the Paddle tour. And learn more about local history by checking out over 20,000 artifacts at the Yarmouth County Museum and Archives. Fun fact: The museum has the third largest ship portrait collection in the country.<\/p>\n
Dawson City, Yukon<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\nPopulation: 1,319<\/em><\/p>\nWith one foot in the past and one foot on its way to a late-night party, Dawson City is unlike anywhere else. It\u2019s an old mining town, but it has a sense of humour and dash of whimsy. The city is getting into the spirit of Canada Day by offering a pancake breakfast to start the day followed by a parade, live music, and free activities that will last throughout the year. Last year\u2019s festivities included a flag-raising ceremony, gold panning contest, bike rodeo, and country picnic, so you can count on a good time. While you\u2019re in town, see relics from the Gold Rush at the Dawson City Museum, and don\u2019t miss the spirit of the wild at the Jack London Museum.<\/p>\n
Watson Lake, Yukon<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\nPopulation: 1,474<\/em><\/p>\nOut in the wild, Watson Lake was put on the map when the Alaska Highway put down its pavement in 1942. Today, the naked beauty hasn\u2019t changed, and if you want to really get away from it all, a Canada Day trip to this Yukon town offers the refuge you seek. The most famous attribute of Watson Lake is a rite of passage: the Sign Post Forest. Locals and travellers alike nail up small signs of their choosing\u2014resulting in a mural comprising over 72,000 signs and counting. While you\u2019re in town, see the Northern Lights but skip the winter snow. Stop into the Northern Lights Space and Science Centre, which features \u201cYukon\u2019s Northern Lights\u201d projected on the centre\u2019s domed screen every summer. You\u2019ll also want to cast off into Watson Lake, which has lake trout, northern pike, bull trout, rainbow trout, artic greyling, and kokanee salmon.<\/p>\n
Goderich, Ontario<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\nPopulation: 7,521<\/em><\/p>\nIn case you haven\u2019t heard, Goderich, Ontario, is often ranked as one of the prettiest Canadian small towns. See what all the fuss is about when you look at its beauty from the seat of a bike or from the edge of a beach towel. For Canada Day, the city is going all out with their fireworks display on the beach on June 30th, then following that with a community picnic and parade on July 1st. While you\u2019re here, splash in the waves when you take a dip at the popular Cove Beach. Learn more about the city\u2019s pride when stopping into Huron County Museum\u2014a lifelong passion project by local hero Mr. Joseph Herbert Neill. And if you like your history with a dash of spooky, visit the Historic Gaol, an octagon-shape building that contained the former county jail.<\/p>\n
Canmore, Alberta<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\nPopulation: 13,992<\/em><\/p>\nWith pine-fresh air in your lungs and a yoga mat beneath your feet, your time in Canmore will breathe new life into the season. Sip up vitamins and sweet flavours with a stop at Mountain Juice Cafe, or grab a pint from the Grizzly Paw Pub & Brewing Company, which also offers craft sodas if you brought the kids. And after you\u2019ve spent time stretching in downward dog at places like Canmore Hot Yoga, hoist yourself on a steed with a horseback riding adventure via Boundary Ranch.<\/p>\n
Bowen Island, British Columbia<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\nPopulation: 3,492<\/em><\/p>\nWe know a place far away from everyday cares, where you can feel like you\u2019re on your own island–perhaps because it is an island. We\u2019re talking about Bowen Island, British Columbia, a tree-sprinkled patch of beauty on the waters of Howe Sound. Bowen Island is planning its upcoming Canada Day festival. Last year included a family picnic, live music, and face painting, so you can count on a perfect afternoon with the kiddos. While you\u2019re in town, spend time at the marina at Snug Cove. Get those paddles ready for action when you sign up for a kayak tour with Bowen Island Kayaking. And see the island from a scooter when you rent a sweet ride from Zoom Zoom Bowen.<\/p>\n
Oliver, British Columbia<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\nPopulation: 4,824<\/em><\/p>\nEvery holiday is better with wine! This July, you won\u2019t want to skip a visit to Oliver, British Columbia, the \u201cWine Capital of Canada\u201d. Enjoy tastings at wineries like Hester Creek, Tinhorn Creek, and Burrowing Owl Estate Winery. When you\u2019re ready to walk it off, go for a hike among the cottonwoods at Inkaneep Provincial Park. And if you\u2019re more of a history buff, learn about the town\u2019s history\u2014and walk through the old-time jail\u2014when you visit the Oliver Museum.<\/p>\n
Almonte<\/strong>, Ontario<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\n<\/p>\n
Resting on the banks of the Mississippi River, Almonte is a true blue Canadian town that maintains a 19th century downtown style, with plenty of modern attractions. Almonte\u2019s Canada Day celebrations are family affairs, with live music, family BBQ, and fireworks at Gemmill Park. While you\u2019re in town, find new treasures at Tin Barn Market or Nine Lives Antiques (Mill Street as a whole is home to a wealth of antique shops). You\u2019ll also want to make a stop into Mill Street Books, which has an excellent supply of children\u2019s stories. And when your tummy starts to rumble, split a platter of calamari and Italian dishes at the popular Cafe Postino.<\/p>\n
Bancroft, Ontario<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\nPopulation: 3,880<\/em><\/p>\nSitting on the tip of Hastings County at the south end of Algonquin Park, Bancroft is a tranquil, welcoming, and perfect small town for a summer getaway. For Canada Day, the town is gathering together at York River Millennium Park for a raucous fireworks show taking place at dusk. While you\u2019re in town, take in the quiet atmosphere as you hike, swim, or kayak at Silent Lake Provincial Park. Learn more about Bancroft\u2019s glittering past when you step into the Mineral Museum. And admire the talent of local artists when you see a performance at the Village Playhouse.<\/p>\n
Stanstead, <\/strong>Quebec<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\nPopulation: 2,857<\/em><\/p>\nWe can\u2019t talk about Canada Day getaways without mentioning the luminescent Stanstead, Quebec. Wander through the charming town, which is filled with pops of colour from blooming flowers against pale brick architecture. Catch a show (and learn some things while you\u2019re here) when you stop into Haskell Free Library and Opera House. Walk through the intriguing and wondrous Stanstead Stone Circle, which takes its inspiration from Stonehenge. And finally, head north to Bleu Lavande, one of the largest lavender gardens in North America. July is peak lavender season, so don\u2019t miss a tour through the sweet-scented fields.<\/p>\n
This July, get out in the sunshine and revel in the celebrations. Sure, you can try to grab a spot in Ottawa<\/a> where all the ginormous fireworks are blasting off. But with rolling greens, lakeside blues, and even a few slices of colourful birthday cake for the 150th<\/sup>, these picks for Canada\u2019s best small towns are truly perfect for a summer getaway.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
For an ocean-blue seaside town, there\u2019s a healthy dose of reds that pop out against the cool landscape. Red roofs, red railings, red chairs\u2026it\u2019s enough of a jolt to remind you that, while it may be a small seaside town, it\u2019s anything but sleepy. While you\u2019re here, check out the Museum of Northern BC to see artifacts from the fur trading era. Grab a drink at 30-years-and-running Breakers Pub along the water, or test the hops at Wheelhouse Brewing Company. Learn about the town\u2019s history at the North Pacific Cannery Historic Site, which honours the longest operated cannery in the country. And be sure to grab a bite at Rodhos Pizza, a local favourite for over 20 years.<\/p>\n
Beaumont, Alberta<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\nPopulation: 17,396<\/em><\/p>\nOpen spaces, friendly people, and the kind of place that truly welcomes families of all shapes and sizes. We\u2019re talking about Beaumont, Alberta. For Canada Day, it\u2019s celebrating the 150th<\/sup> anniversary with bouncy houses, live entertainment, food trucks, a family dance, and a fireworks show. While you\u2019re in town, take home a piece of art from The Painted Door on Main, which features a troupe of artists and creators. And remember to stretch your legs on the trail system that runs over 22 km through town, including around Don Sparrow Lake.<\/p>\nCamrose, Alberta<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\nPopulation: 18,742<\/em><\/p>\nYou can usually hear Camrose before you see it, as it plays host to major events like Big Valley Jamboree. With its location in the heart of Alberta, you can enjoy all the perks of a town, while never being too far from hiking trails and scenic parks. You\u2019ll want to make your way to Rudy Swanson Recreation Park during Canada Day, where the 150th<\/sup> anniversary will be celebrated with festivities starting at 9:30am, and concluding with a fireworks production at dusk. Aside from the 150th<\/sup> party, you\u2019ll want to catch a performance at Bailey Theatre, and see pieces of history like replicas of a 1906 school and 1898 pioneer log house at the Camrose and District Centennial Museum, which is celebrating its 50th birthday in 2017.<\/p>\nSylvan Lake, Alberta<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\nPopulation: 14,816<\/em><\/p>\nStuck in the middle with you is what Sylvan Lake counts on. With Calgary roughly 150 km to the south and Edmonton roughly 150 km to the north, the shoreline town of Sylvan Lake provides a healthy escape from big city life on your getaway. Breathe in that fresh air when you go for a stroll in Sylvan Lake Provincial Park. Race the kids and make new memories at Lakeside Go Karts. Take a bite out of life at the Sylvan Lake Farmers Market. And when you feel the summer heat beating down, cool off at Sylvan Lake Aqua Splash.<\/p>\n
Bracebridge, Ontario<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\nPopulation: 16,010<\/em><\/p>\nLocated on a hilltop overlooking the Muskoka River, Bracebridge is a charming town, with red bricked buildings, old-fashioned street lights, and a sense of wild nature just around the edges. For Canada Day, make your way to Bracebridge Bay, where Rotary Fireworks will paint the sky blues, greens, purples, and yellows in honour of the 150th<\/sup> anniversary. Now, despite it being the peak of summer, it doesn\u2019t mean you can\u2019t look forward to Christmas already. Stop into Santa\u2019s Village (which opens for the season on July 1st<\/sup>), where you can eat lunch with Santa and ride mini rollercoasters and trains. Other top attractions of town include splashing around at Kirby\u2019s Beach, making your own candle souvenirs at Rich Hill Candles, and putting away at Northern Escapades Mini Golf.<\/p>\nCochrane, Ontario<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\nPopulation: 5,340<\/em><\/p>\nAs the birthplace of hockey great Tim Horton and the home of the renowned Polar Bear Habitat, it doesn\u2019t get more Canadian than the small town of Cochrane. Beat the summer heat when you visit the magnificent creatures at the Polar Bear Habitat, or pop into Heritage Village to scout for antique treasures. Stay tuned for what Cochrane has in store for 150th<\/sup>. Last year, the town celebrated with a Round the Lake Swim, face painting, sand castle building contest, beach volleyball, and fireworks.<\/p>\nThe Pas, Manitoba<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\nPopulation: 5,513<\/em><\/p>\nFor Canada Day, get in touch with a sense of the past when you visit The Pas. It\u2019s one of the oldest settlements in northern Manitoba, when it was incorporated in 1912. Not only is it historic, with its location only 20 km from Clearwater Lake\u2014which as the name suggests has crystal clear water\u2014the landscape is overwhelmingly lovely as well. Learn more about the town and see eccentric memorabilia when you visit the Sam Waller Museum, and be sure to catch a film at one of the longest running movie theatres in North America when you visit Lido Theatre.<\/p>\n
Port Hope, Ontario<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\nVia Flickr\/John Vetterli<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\nPopulation: 16,214<\/em><\/p>\nWith a mix of local pride, a calendar full of festivals and events, and a ton of charm, you don\u2019t want to miss a stop into Port Hope, Ontario. The town is celebrating the 150th<\/sup> anniversary with a parade, followed by celebrations at Memorial Park. This will include classic cars and antique machinery on display, along with food vendors, enough\u00a0birthday cake to feed the town, live music, kid-friendly activities, and fireworks on the beach. While you\u2019re in the city, see works of beauty at the Art Gallery of Northumberland. Check out local artifacts at the Dorothy House Museum. Find treasures for your home when you pop into the several antique shops downtown. And learn more about the brave men and women who\u2019ve served in the fire department at the Canadian Fire Fighters Museum.<\/p>\nNipawin, Saskatchewan<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\nPopulation: 4,265<\/em><\/p>\nThere are some traditions that simply must be passed down in person. Casting your line and capturing a whopper of a fish is one of those rites of passage. And there\u2019s no better place to do it than the town of Nipawin, Saskatchewan. Located a short drive to Tobin Lake, this place is all about long summer afternoons along the water\u2019s edge, waiting for walleye and pike fish to bite on the line. This July is shaping up to be an even bigger draw with Canada Day celebrations. Nipawin Museum is the focal point of the day, with a flag raising, silent auction, food booths, and freshly baked bread in the antique clay ovens. You can also look forward to a bouncy castle and climbing wall for the kiddos, live music, and free birthday cake to honour the country\u2019s big day.<\/p>\n
Riverview, New Brunswick<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\nPopulation: 19,667<\/em><\/p>\nSome cities are about seeing what life was like at the turn of the century. Riverview is about experiencing the past up close. This includes a visit to Kings Landing Historical Settlement, where you\u2019ll actually saw wood among other vintage tasks. While you\u2019re in town, go for a hike along Dobson Trail, and get that perfect hole-in-one at Moncton Golf & Country Club.<\/p>\n
Woodstock, New Brunswick<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\nPopulation: 5,254<\/em><\/p>\nYou might not see the Grateful Dead in Woodstock, New Brunswick, but you will see plenty of happy faces in this friendly town. Located on the banks of the St. Johns River and Meduxnekeag River, this quaint area offers a little haven from the hustle and bustle. Not only is this a cozy town, it\u2019s also one of New Brunswick\u2019s oldest, as it was the first official town of the province in 1856. While you\u2019re enjoying your summer getaway, find some fresh produce and homemade crafts at Woodstock Farm & Craft Market or see some local art at Creek Village Gallery & Caf\u00e9.<\/p>\n
Souris, Prince Edward Island<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\nPopulation: 1,173<\/em><\/p>\nWith scenic waters and a red-roofed lighthouse, the town of Souris offers a quiet summer getaway for the family. Get a taste of coastal living when you visit 21 Breakwater Restaurant and munch on freshly caught seafood. Bring out your irons when you putt at Rollo Bay Greens. Feel the sand between your toes when you walk along Singing Sands beach. And take a picture in front of Souris Lighthouse to make all your friends back home jealous.<\/p>\n
St. Andrews, New Brunswick<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\nPopulation: 1,889<\/em><\/p>\nWith its 200-year-old history, is it really a surprise that St. Andrews made it onto our 9 Charming Historic Towns<\/a> list? Yes, this quaint seaside refuge is known as a perfect summer destination when you want to kayak on the waves and hit the golf green. While you\u2019re here, sign up for a kayaking tour with St. Andrews by the Sea Adventure Center or go on a whale watching cruise with Jolly Breeze of St. Andrews. And don\u2019t forget to see local seals Loki and Snorkel up close when you visit the Fundy Discovery Aquarium.<\/p>\nSummerside, Prince Edward Island<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\nPopulation: 14,751<\/em><\/p>\nIt\u2019s the second largest city on Prince Edward Island, and has those filter-free backgrounds you crave on Instagram. We\u2019re talking about Summerside, which is home to a salt-splashed lighthouse, lively boardwalk, and splatter of jagged forest trees. If it\u2019s a summer getaway you\u2019re looking for, this place has the goods. Lace up your shoes and walk along Confederation Trail. Don\u2019t worry; the gradient never goes up more than two percent. Learn more about the town\u2019s history at the five Wyatt Heritage Properties historical sites. This includes the Lefurgey Cultural Centre, Bishop\u2019s Machine Shop Museum & Historic Site, MacNaught History Centre and Archives, the International Fox Museum and Hall of Fame, and Wyatt Historic House Museum. And once it\u2019s time to eat, make sure you indulge in fresh oysters and mussels at local favourite OpenEats.<\/p>\n
Yarmouth, Nova Scotia<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\nVia Town of Yarmouth<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\nPopulation: 6,518<\/em><\/p>\nNestled between French-speaking Arcadie and English-speaking port towns, Yarmouth is the talk of the town. It\u2019s home to the biggest fishing fleet in the country and offers charming views of wind-whipped buildings next to crashing waves. Get to know the town with an interactive tour at the Firefighters\u2019 Museum of Nova Scotia, where you\u2019ll sit in a 1933 Chev Bickle pumper. See the city from beyond the oar when you sign up for a Song of the Paddle tour. And learn more about local history by checking out over 20,000 artifacts at the Yarmouth County Museum and Archives. Fun fact: The museum has the third largest ship portrait collection in the country.<\/p>\n
Dawson City, Yukon<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\nPopulation: 1,319<\/em><\/p>\nWith one foot in the past and one foot on its way to a late-night party, Dawson City is unlike anywhere else. It\u2019s an old mining town, but it has a sense of humour and dash of whimsy. The city is getting into the spirit of Canada Day by offering a pancake breakfast to start the day followed by a parade, live music, and free activities that will last throughout the year. Last year\u2019s festivities included a flag-raising ceremony, gold panning contest, bike rodeo, and country picnic, so you can count on a good time. While you\u2019re in town, see relics from the Gold Rush at the Dawson City Museum, and don\u2019t miss the spirit of the wild at the Jack London Museum.<\/p>\n
Watson Lake, Yukon<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\nPopulation: 1,474<\/em><\/p>\nOut in the wild, Watson Lake was put on the map when the Alaska Highway put down its pavement in 1942. Today, the naked beauty hasn\u2019t changed, and if you want to really get away from it all, a Canada Day trip to this Yukon town offers the refuge you seek. The most famous attribute of Watson Lake is a rite of passage: the Sign Post Forest. Locals and travellers alike nail up small signs of their choosing\u2014resulting in a mural comprising over 72,000 signs and counting. While you\u2019re in town, see the Northern Lights but skip the winter snow. Stop into the Northern Lights Space and Science Centre, which features \u201cYukon\u2019s Northern Lights\u201d projected on the centre\u2019s domed screen every summer. You\u2019ll also want to cast off into Watson Lake, which has lake trout, northern pike, bull trout, rainbow trout, artic greyling, and kokanee salmon.<\/p>\n
Goderich, Ontario<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\nPopulation: 7,521<\/em><\/p>\nIn case you haven\u2019t heard, Goderich, Ontario, is often ranked as one of the prettiest Canadian small towns. See what all the fuss is about when you look at its beauty from the seat of a bike or from the edge of a beach towel. For Canada Day, the city is going all out with their fireworks display on the beach on June 30th, then following that with a community picnic and parade on July 1st. While you\u2019re here, splash in the waves when you take a dip at the popular Cove Beach. Learn more about the city\u2019s pride when stopping into Huron County Museum\u2014a lifelong passion project by local hero Mr. Joseph Herbert Neill. And if you like your history with a dash of spooky, visit the Historic Gaol, an octagon-shape building that contained the former county jail.<\/p>\n
Canmore, Alberta<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\nPopulation: 13,992<\/em><\/p>\nWith pine-fresh air in your lungs and a yoga mat beneath your feet, your time in Canmore will breathe new life into the season. Sip up vitamins and sweet flavours with a stop at Mountain Juice Cafe, or grab a pint from the Grizzly Paw Pub & Brewing Company, which also offers craft sodas if you brought the kids. And after you\u2019ve spent time stretching in downward dog at places like Canmore Hot Yoga, hoist yourself on a steed with a horseback riding adventure via Boundary Ranch.<\/p>\n
Bowen Island, British Columbia<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\nPopulation: 3,492<\/em><\/p>\nWe know a place far away from everyday cares, where you can feel like you\u2019re on your own island–perhaps because it is an island. We\u2019re talking about Bowen Island, British Columbia, a tree-sprinkled patch of beauty on the waters of Howe Sound. Bowen Island is planning its upcoming Canada Day festival. Last year included a family picnic, live music, and face painting, so you can count on a perfect afternoon with the kiddos. While you\u2019re in town, spend time at the marina at Snug Cove. Get those paddles ready for action when you sign up for a kayak tour with Bowen Island Kayaking. And see the island from a scooter when you rent a sweet ride from Zoom Zoom Bowen.<\/p>\n
Oliver, British Columbia<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\nPopulation: 4,824<\/em><\/p>\nEvery holiday is better with wine! This July, you won\u2019t want to skip a visit to Oliver, British Columbia, the \u201cWine Capital of Canada\u201d. Enjoy tastings at wineries like Hester Creek, Tinhorn Creek, and Burrowing Owl Estate Winery. When you\u2019re ready to walk it off, go for a hike among the cottonwoods at Inkaneep Provincial Park. And if you\u2019re more of a history buff, learn about the town\u2019s history\u2014and walk through the old-time jail\u2014when you visit the Oliver Museum.<\/p>\n
Almonte<\/strong>, Ontario<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\n<\/p>\n
Resting on the banks of the Mississippi River, Almonte is a true blue Canadian town that maintains a 19th century downtown style, with plenty of modern attractions. Almonte\u2019s Canada Day celebrations are family affairs, with live music, family BBQ, and fireworks at Gemmill Park. While you\u2019re in town, find new treasures at Tin Barn Market or Nine Lives Antiques (Mill Street as a whole is home to a wealth of antique shops). You\u2019ll also want to make a stop into Mill Street Books, which has an excellent supply of children\u2019s stories. And when your tummy starts to rumble, split a platter of calamari and Italian dishes at the popular Cafe Postino.<\/p>\n
Bancroft, Ontario<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\nPopulation: 3,880<\/em><\/p>\nSitting on the tip of Hastings County at the south end of Algonquin Park, Bancroft is a tranquil, welcoming, and perfect small town for a summer getaway. For Canada Day, the town is gathering together at York River Millennium Park for a raucous fireworks show taking place at dusk. While you\u2019re in town, take in the quiet atmosphere as you hike, swim, or kayak at Silent Lake Provincial Park. Learn more about Bancroft\u2019s glittering past when you step into the Mineral Museum. And admire the talent of local artists when you see a performance at the Village Playhouse.<\/p>\n
Stanstead, <\/strong>Quebec<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\nPopulation: 2,857<\/em><\/p>\nWe can\u2019t talk about Canada Day getaways without mentioning the luminescent Stanstead, Quebec. Wander through the charming town, which is filled with pops of colour from blooming flowers against pale brick architecture. Catch a show (and learn some things while you\u2019re here) when you stop into Haskell Free Library and Opera House. Walk through the intriguing and wondrous Stanstead Stone Circle, which takes its inspiration from Stonehenge. And finally, head north to Bleu Lavande, one of the largest lavender gardens in North America. July is peak lavender season, so don\u2019t miss a tour through the sweet-scented fields.<\/p>\n
This July, get out in the sunshine and revel in the celebrations. Sure, you can try to grab a spot in Ottawa<\/a> where all the ginormous fireworks are blasting off. But with rolling greens, lakeside blues, and even a few slices of colourful birthday cake for the 150th<\/sup>, these picks for Canada\u2019s best small towns are truly perfect for a summer getaway.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Population: 17,396<\/em><\/p>\nOpen spaces, friendly people, and the kind of place that truly welcomes families of all shapes and sizes. We\u2019re talking about Beaumont, Alberta. For Canada Day, it\u2019s celebrating the 150th<\/sup> anniversary with bouncy houses, live entertainment, food trucks, a family dance, and a fireworks show. While you\u2019re in town, take home a piece of art from The Painted Door on Main, which features a troupe of artists and creators. And remember to stretch your legs on the trail system that runs over 22 km through town, including around Don Sparrow Lake.<\/p>\n Population: 18,742<\/em><\/p>\n You can usually hear Camrose before you see it, as it plays host to major events like Big Valley Jamboree. With its location in the heart of Alberta, you can enjoy all the perks of a town, while never being too far from hiking trails and scenic parks. You\u2019ll want to make your way to Rudy Swanson Recreation Park during Canada Day, where the 150th<\/sup> anniversary will be celebrated with festivities starting at 9:30am, and concluding with a fireworks production at dusk. Aside from the 150th<\/sup> party, you\u2019ll want to catch a performance at Bailey Theatre, and see pieces of history like replicas of a 1906 school and 1898 pioneer log house at the Camrose and District Centennial Museum, which is celebrating its 50th birthday in 2017.<\/p>\n Stuck in the middle with you is what Sylvan Lake counts on. With Calgary roughly 150 km to the south and Edmonton roughly 150 km to the north, the shoreline town of Sylvan Lake provides a healthy escape from big city life on your getaway. Breathe in that fresh air when you go for a stroll in Sylvan Lake Provincial Park. Race the kids and make new memories at Lakeside Go Karts. Take a bite out of life at the Sylvan Lake Farmers Market. And when you feel the summer heat beating down, cool off at Sylvan Lake Aqua Splash.<\/p>\n Population: 16,010<\/em><\/p>\n Located on a hilltop overlooking the Muskoka River, Bracebridge is a charming town, with red bricked buildings, old-fashioned street lights, and a sense of wild nature just around the edges. For Canada Day, make your way to Bracebridge Bay, where Rotary Fireworks will paint the sky blues, greens, purples, and yellows in honour of the 150th<\/sup> anniversary. Now, despite it being the peak of summer, it doesn\u2019t mean you can\u2019t look forward to Christmas already. Stop into Santa\u2019s Village (which opens for the season on July 1st<\/sup>), where you can eat lunch with Santa and ride mini rollercoasters and trains. Other top attractions of town include splashing around at Kirby\u2019s Beach, making your own candle souvenirs at Rich Hill Candles, and putting away at Northern Escapades Mini Golf.<\/p>\n As the birthplace of hockey great Tim Horton and the home of the renowned Polar Bear Habitat, it doesn\u2019t get more Canadian than the small town of Cochrane. Beat the summer heat when you visit the magnificent creatures at the Polar Bear Habitat, or pop into Heritage Village to scout for antique treasures. Stay tuned for what Cochrane has in store for 150th<\/sup>. Last year, the town celebrated with a Round the Lake Swim, face painting, sand castle building contest, beach volleyball, and fireworks.<\/p>\n Population: 5,513<\/em><\/p>\n For Canada Day, get in touch with a sense of the past when you visit The Pas. It\u2019s one of the oldest settlements in northern Manitoba, when it was incorporated in 1912. Not only is it historic, with its location only 20 km from Clearwater Lake\u2014which as the name suggests has crystal clear water\u2014the landscape is overwhelmingly lovely as well. Learn more about the town and see eccentric memorabilia when you visit the Sam Waller Museum, and be sure to catch a film at one of the longest running movie theatres in North America when you visit Lido Theatre.<\/p>\n Population: 16,214<\/em><\/p>\n With a mix of local pride, a calendar full of festivals and events, and a ton of charm, you don\u2019t want to miss a stop into Port Hope, Ontario. The town is celebrating the 150th<\/sup> anniversary with a parade, followed by celebrations at Memorial Park. This will include classic cars and antique machinery on display, along with food vendors, enough\u00a0birthday cake to feed the town, live music, kid-friendly activities, and fireworks on the beach. While you\u2019re in the city, see works of beauty at the Art Gallery of Northumberland. Check out local artifacts at the Dorothy House Museum. Find treasures for your home when you pop into the several antique shops downtown. And learn more about the brave men and women who\u2019ve served in the fire department at the Canadian Fire Fighters Museum.<\/p>\n Population: 4,265<\/em><\/p>\n There are some traditions that simply must be passed down in person. Casting your line and capturing a whopper of a fish is one of those rites of passage. And there\u2019s no better place to do it than the town of Nipawin, Saskatchewan. Located a short drive to Tobin Lake, this place is all about long summer afternoons along the water\u2019s edge, waiting for walleye and pike fish to bite on the line. This July is shaping up to be an even bigger draw with Canada Day celebrations. Nipawin Museum is the focal point of the day, with a flag raising, silent auction, food booths, and freshly baked bread in the antique clay ovens. You can also look forward to a bouncy castle and climbing wall for the kiddos, live music, and free birthday cake to honour the country\u2019s big day.<\/p>\n Some cities are about seeing what life was like at the turn of the century. Riverview is about experiencing the past up close. This includes a visit to Kings Landing Historical Settlement, where you\u2019ll actually saw wood among other vintage tasks. While you\u2019re in town, go for a hike along Dobson Trail, and get that perfect hole-in-one at Moncton Golf & Country Club.<\/p>\n Population: 5,254<\/em><\/p>\n You might not see the Grateful Dead in Woodstock, New Brunswick, but you will see plenty of happy faces in this friendly town. Located on the banks of the St. Johns River and Meduxnekeag River, this quaint area offers a little haven from the hustle and bustle. Not only is this a cozy town, it\u2019s also one of New Brunswick\u2019s oldest, as it was the first official town of the province in 1856. While you\u2019re enjoying your summer getaway, find some fresh produce and homemade crafts at Woodstock Farm & Craft Market or see some local art at Creek Village Gallery & Caf\u00e9.<\/p>\n With scenic waters and a red-roofed lighthouse, the town of Souris offers a quiet summer getaway for the family. Get a taste of coastal living when you visit 21 Breakwater Restaurant and munch on freshly caught seafood. Bring out your irons when you putt at Rollo Bay Greens. Feel the sand between your toes when you walk along Singing Sands beach. And take a picture in front of Souris Lighthouse to make all your friends back home jealous.<\/p>\n Population: 1,889<\/em><\/p>\n With its 200-year-old history, is it really a surprise that St. Andrews made it onto our 9 Charming Historic Towns<\/a> list? Yes, this quaint seaside refuge is known as a perfect summer destination when you want to kayak on the waves and hit the golf green. While you\u2019re here, sign up for a kayaking tour with St. Andrews by the Sea Adventure Center or go on a whale watching cruise with Jolly Breeze of St. Andrews. And don\u2019t forget to see local seals Loki and Snorkel up close when you visit the Fundy Discovery Aquarium.<\/p>\n It\u2019s the second largest city on Prince Edward Island, and has those filter-free backgrounds you crave on Instagram. We\u2019re talking about Summerside, which is home to a salt-splashed lighthouse, lively boardwalk, and splatter of jagged forest trees. If it\u2019s a summer getaway you\u2019re looking for, this place has the goods. Lace up your shoes and walk along Confederation Trail. Don\u2019t worry; the gradient never goes up more than two percent. Learn more about the town\u2019s history at the five Wyatt Heritage Properties historical sites. This includes the Lefurgey Cultural Centre, Bishop\u2019s Machine Shop Museum & Historic Site, MacNaught History Centre and Archives, the International Fox Museum and Hall of Fame, and Wyatt Historic House Museum. And once it\u2019s time to eat, make sure you indulge in fresh oysters and mussels at local favourite OpenEats.<\/p>\n Population: 6,518<\/em><\/p>\n Nestled between French-speaking Arcadie and English-speaking port towns, Yarmouth is the talk of the town. It\u2019s home to the biggest fishing fleet in the country and offers charming views of wind-whipped buildings next to crashing waves. Get to know the town with an interactive tour at the Firefighters\u2019 Museum of Nova Scotia, where you\u2019ll sit in a 1933 Chev Bickle pumper. See the city from beyond the oar when you sign up for a Song of the Paddle tour. And learn more about local history by checking out over 20,000 artifacts at the Yarmouth County Museum and Archives. Fun fact: The museum has the third largest ship portrait collection in the country.<\/p>\n With one foot in the past and one foot on its way to a late-night party, Dawson City is unlike anywhere else. It\u2019s an old mining town, but it has a sense of humour and dash of whimsy. The city is getting into the spirit of Canada Day by offering a pancake breakfast to start the day followed by a parade, live music, and free activities that will last throughout the year. Last year\u2019s festivities included a flag-raising ceremony, gold panning contest, bike rodeo, and country picnic, so you can count on a good time. While you\u2019re in town, see relics from the Gold Rush at the Dawson City Museum, and don\u2019t miss the spirit of the wild at the Jack London Museum.<\/p>\n Population: 1,474<\/em><\/p>\n Out in the wild, Watson Lake was put on the map when the Alaska Highway put down its pavement in 1942. Today, the naked beauty hasn\u2019t changed, and if you want to really get away from it all, a Canada Day trip to this Yukon town offers the refuge you seek. The most famous attribute of Watson Lake is a rite of passage: the Sign Post Forest. Locals and travellers alike nail up small signs of their choosing\u2014resulting in a mural comprising over 72,000 signs and counting. While you\u2019re in town, see the Northern Lights but skip the winter snow. Stop into the Northern Lights Space and Science Centre, which features \u201cYukon\u2019s Northern Lights\u201d projected on the centre\u2019s domed screen every summer. You\u2019ll also want to cast off into Watson Lake, which has lake trout, northern pike, bull trout, rainbow trout, artic greyling, and kokanee salmon.<\/p>\n In case you haven\u2019t heard, Goderich, Ontario, is often ranked as one of the prettiest Canadian small towns. See what all the fuss is about when you look at its beauty from the seat of a bike or from the edge of a beach towel. For Canada Day, the city is going all out with their fireworks display on the beach on June 30th, then following that with a community picnic and parade on July 1st. While you\u2019re here, splash in the waves when you take a dip at the popular Cove Beach. Learn more about the city\u2019s pride when stopping into Huron County Museum\u2014a lifelong passion project by local hero Mr. Joseph Herbert Neill. And if you like your history with a dash of spooky, visit the Historic Gaol, an octagon-shape building that contained the former county jail.<\/p>\n Population: 13,992<\/em><\/p>\n With pine-fresh air in your lungs and a yoga mat beneath your feet, your time in Canmore will breathe new life into the season. Sip up vitamins and sweet flavours with a stop at Mountain Juice Cafe, or grab a pint from the Grizzly Paw Pub & Brewing Company, which also offers craft sodas if you brought the kids. And after you\u2019ve spent time stretching in downward dog at places like Canmore Hot Yoga, hoist yourself on a steed with a horseback riding adventure via Boundary Ranch.<\/p>\n We know a place far away from everyday cares, where you can feel like you\u2019re on your own island–perhaps because it is an island. We\u2019re talking about Bowen Island, British Columbia, a tree-sprinkled patch of beauty on the waters of Howe Sound. Bowen Island is planning its upcoming Canada Day festival. Last year included a family picnic, live music, and face painting, so you can count on a perfect afternoon with the kiddos. While you\u2019re in town, spend time at the marina at Snug Cove. Get those paddles ready for action when you sign up for a kayak tour with Bowen Island Kayaking. And see the island from a scooter when you rent a sweet ride from Zoom Zoom Bowen.<\/p>\n Population: 4,824<\/em><\/p>\n Every holiday is better with wine! This July, you won\u2019t want to skip a visit to Oliver, British Columbia, the \u201cWine Capital of Canada\u201d. Enjoy tastings at wineries like Hester Creek, Tinhorn Creek, and Burrowing Owl Estate Winery. When you\u2019re ready to walk it off, go for a hike among the cottonwoods at Inkaneep Provincial Park. And if you\u2019re more of a history buff, learn about the town\u2019s history\u2014and walk through the old-time jail\u2014when you visit the Oliver Museum.<\/p>\n Resting on the banks of the Mississippi River, Almonte is a true blue Canadian town that maintains a 19th century downtown style, with plenty of modern attractions. Almonte\u2019s Canada Day celebrations are family affairs, with live music, family BBQ, and fireworks at Gemmill Park. While you\u2019re in town, find new treasures at Tin Barn Market or Nine Lives Antiques (Mill Street as a whole is home to a wealth of antique shops). You\u2019ll also want to make a stop into Mill Street Books, which has an excellent supply of children\u2019s stories. And when your tummy starts to rumble, split a platter of calamari and Italian dishes at the popular Cafe Postino.<\/p>\n Population: 3,880<\/em><\/p>\n Sitting on the tip of Hastings County at the south end of Algonquin Park, Bancroft is a tranquil, welcoming, and perfect small town for a summer getaway. For Canada Day, the town is gathering together at York River Millennium Park for a raucous fireworks show taking place at dusk. While you\u2019re in town, take in the quiet atmosphere as you hike, swim, or kayak at Silent Lake Provincial Park. Learn more about Bancroft\u2019s glittering past when you step into the Mineral Museum. And admire the talent of local artists when you see a performance at the Village Playhouse.<\/p>\n We can\u2019t talk about Canada Day getaways without mentioning the luminescent Stanstead, Quebec. Wander through the charming town, which is filled with pops of colour from blooming flowers against pale brick architecture. Catch a show (and learn some things while you\u2019re here) when you stop into Haskell Free Library and Opera House. Walk through the intriguing and wondrous Stanstead Stone Circle, which takes its inspiration from Stonehenge. And finally, head north to Bleu Lavande, one of the largest lavender gardens in North America. July is peak lavender season, so don\u2019t miss a tour through the sweet-scented fields.<\/p>\n This July, get out in the sunshine and revel in the celebrations. Sure, you can try to grab a spot in Ottawa<\/a> where all the ginormous fireworks are blasting off. But with rolling greens, lakeside blues, and even a few slices of colourful birthday cake for the 150th<\/sup>, these picks for Canada\u2019s best small towns are truly perfect for a summer getaway.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Camrose, Alberta<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\n
Sylvan Lake, Alberta<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\n
Population: 14,816<\/em><\/p>\nBracebridge, Ontario<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\n
Cochrane, Ontario<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\n
Population: 5,340<\/em><\/p>\nThe Pas, Manitoba<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\n
Port Hope, Ontario<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\n
Nipawin, Saskatchewan<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\n
Riverview, New Brunswick<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\n
Population: 19,667<\/em><\/p>\nWoodstock, New Brunswick<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\n
Souris, Prince Edward Island<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\n
Population: 1,173<\/em><\/p>\nSt. Andrews, New Brunswick<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\n
Summerside, Prince Edward Island<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\n
Population: 14,751<\/em><\/p>\nYarmouth, Nova Scotia<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\n
Dawson City, Yukon<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\n
Population: 1,319<\/em><\/p>\nWatson Lake, Yukon<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\n
Goderich, Ontario<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\n
Population: 7,521<\/em><\/p>\nCanmore, Alberta<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\n
Bowen Island, British Columbia<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\n
Population: 3,492<\/em><\/p>\nOliver, British Columbia<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\n
Almonte<\/strong>, Ontario<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\n
<\/p>\nBancroft, Ontario<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\n
Stanstead, <\/strong>Quebec<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\n
Population: 2,857<\/em><\/p>\n