5 Cool Canadian Attractions Just Across the Border

Canada is known for its wide-open spaces, but travelers from the U.S. don’t have to trek for hundreds of miles into that nation’s interior to see some amazing northern attractions. These summertime destinations are close enough to the U.S. border to keep your trip budget-friendly, without sacrificing the joys of the open road, international travel, and the incredible sights that the “Great White North” has to offer. So whether it’s stunning vistas or urban oases that have got you revving up the engine, buckle up! These hotspots are worth that full tank of gas.

Niagara Falls

The most obvious Canadian attraction close to the border is also the biggest – Niagara Falls. But what separates a visit here from just exploring the landmark’s U.S. side? The ideal combination of kitschy fun and serious nature, that’s what. After taking in the most iconic panoramic view of all three of Niagara’s falls from the Canada side, enjoy the fun-filled Clifton Hills neighborhood with its “Street of Fun,” featuring arcades, mini-golf, and the 175-ft high Niagara SkyWheel.

Upriver from the falls’ many worthy attributes, however, is the Niagara Glen, a nature preserve that would likely be much better known if it weren’t overshadowed by its downstream neighbor. Home to 2.5 miles of rugged hiking trails that wind through ancient forest, the Glen overlooks the whitewater rapids of the Niagara River and offers visitors a glimpse into the region’s prehistoric past. Visit the on-site Nature Center to sign up for one of the popular guided tours, which happen only during the summer months and provide keen insight into the region’s incredible geologic formation.

Waterton Lakes National Park

Nestled in the southwest corner of Alberta, this national park shares the border with Montana’s Glacier National Park and is no less awe-inspiring. Brimming with stunning lakes, tall peaks, and red rock canyons, it’s similar to its more renowned cousin, Banff, but without all the traffic.

The Crypt Lake Hike is particularly noteworthy for its ferry shuttle to the trailhead, which eventually leads to mountainside ladder climbs. If that’s a little too “Indiana Jones” for you, check out Waterton’s shoreline cruises on Upper Waterton Lake, the family-friendly stream walks amidst the Red Rock Canyon, or a drive on the Akamina Parkway, a 9-mile twisting mountain road that leads from town through the Cameron Valley and past pristine alpine lakes. Top off your stay with high tea at the luxurious, European-style Prince of Wales Hotel right on the water.

Bay of Fundy

Big waterfalls, big lakes, and now…big tides. The highest in the world in fact. The Bay of Fundy, along the border between the Canada provinces of New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, and the U.S. state of Maine, serves up an incredible display of nature’s grandeur and power, and it does it twice a day. Rising more than fifty feet, the tides that fill the bay create an almost seismic rush as the water pours in. May to October is the best time to visit, with ocean floor walks and high-tide kayaking tours available.

You can head to Hopewell Rocks or the Fundy National Park on the New Brunswick side to explore the wild geologic features and fossil beds exposed at low tide, or enjoy at your own speed on the 19-mile Fundy Trail Parkway. Endlessly scenic and with plenty of places to stop and explore, it’s a great intro to the area. The bay’s Nova Scotia side is equally enchanting, with seafloor hikes and even whitewater rafting trips available, timed to take advantage of the incoming tide. From there, you can easily continue into Nova Scotia proper where seaside villages and fresh fish for lunch await.

Vancouver and Beyond

West Coast adventurers should aim to keep Vancouver, a true urban oasis, on their itinerary no matter what their other plans might be. One of the most vibrant, welcoming, and beautiful cities on the planet, Vancouver is little more than 30 miles from the Peace Arch Crossing, where British Columbia meets Washington State. The city is full of wonders, from Stanley Park, which features its own rainforest and beaches, to the artisan boutiques of Granville Island.

Early summer is the best time to visit, but the attractions here – don’t forget to sign up for a whale watching tour! – are a year-round affair. For a bit of wildness to go with your city adventure, head to Golden Ears Provincial Park, about an hour from downtown Vancouver and one of Canada’s most beloved camping destinations. Featuring miles of hiking and horseback trails, as well as swimming and boating on the stunning Alouette Lake, it’s the perfect place to stretch your legs after a day in the car.

Thousand Islands

The Thousand Islands region between New York and Ontario is the ideal destination for nature lovers who want a bit of history alongside their outdoor adventures. Most easily accessed via the charming town of Gananoque, Ontario, the region is brimming with remote islands begging to be explored via kayak or boat.

Tours can be arranged right downtown and come with expert guides keen on discussing the region’s unique past. Take Boldt Castle, for example. This decadent century-old castle is a pristine remnant of the Gilded Age era and is well worth a visit. Most tours also include a layover at Singer Castle, another opulent gem. Along the way, you’re like to see bald eagles, herons, and plenty of deer along the shore. To keep the adventure going, head either east to Montreal or west towards Toronto, each of which is only about three hours away.