Things To Do
in Amherst

Amherst, Canada is a charming town located in the province of Nova Scotia, known for its stunning landscapes and rich history. The town serves as a gateway to scenic views of the Bay of Fundy, famous for having the highest tides in the world. Its vibrant community is reflected in local events and festivals throughout the year, showcasing art, culture, and delicious cuisine.

Visitors can enjoy a blend of outdoor activities, historical sites, and warm hospitality in this welcoming destination.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Downtown Amherst
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Amherst Museum, where you can learn about the town's history through engaging exhibits.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at one of the local cafes, followed by a stroll in Victoria Park, where you can admire the beautiful gardens and historical monuments.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant and then unwind at a nearby bar with live music to experience the local nightlife.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Begin with a hearty breakfast and then take a short drive to the nearby Cape Chignecto Coastal Park for a morning of hiking and stunning coastal views.

afternoon
:

After a morning of exploration, head back to Amherst for a relaxed lunch, followed by a visit to the local art galleries to appreciate local talent.

evening
:

Wrap up the day with a visit to a local brewery to taste craft beers and enjoy light snacks.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a Restaurant$20
Coffee$3
🚌Public Transport Ticket$2
🏨Hotel Night$100
🍺Pint of Beer$6

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Friendly and welcoming locals.
  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation may not be frequent.
  • Winter weather can be harsh for some visitors.

Places to Visit in Amherst

Visit one of these nice places.

Victoria Park

A picturesque park with beautiful landscapes, perfect for capturing nature and historic monuments.

Amherst Lighthouse

A classic lighthouse view against the backdrop of the Bay of Fundy, ideal for sunset photography.

Cape Chignecto

Breathtaking coastal views with dramatic cliffs and ocean scenery, perfect for landscape photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Amherst

Amherst offers a delightful culinary scene that reflects the flavors of Nova Scotia, emphasizing fresh seafood and local produce.

Amherst Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Lobster Roll

A classic East Coast dish featuring fresh lobster meat served in a buttered roll.

Must-Try!

Blueberry Grunt

A traditional dessert made with blueberries and biscuit dough, served warm.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Amherst Farmers' Market

A weekly market featuring local farmers selling fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts.

Climate Guide

Weather

Amherst experiences four distinct seasons. Winters (December to February) are cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing and snowfall common. Spring (March to May) brings milder weather with blooming flowers. Summers (June to August) are warm and humid, ideal for outdoor activities. Autumn (September to November) features crisp air and beautiful fall foliage.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Canadians are known for their politeness; saying 'please' and 'thank you' is appreciated.

Personal Space

Respect personal space; Canadians typically prefer a bit of distance in social settings.

Queuing

Always stand in line and wait your turn, whether at stores or public transport stations.

Safety Guide

Safety

Amherst is generally safe, with low crime rates. However, it is advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 911.

Tipping in Amherst

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip between 15-20% in restaurants, and rounding up is appreciated in bars.

Payment Methods

Most places accept credit and debit cards; however, carrying some cash is advisable for smaller vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming flowers and mild temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

Summer

Summers are warm and sunny, perfect for beach outings and exploring the coastline.

Autumn

Fall showcases vibrant foliage, making it a great time for photography and hiking.

Winter

Winters can be cold and snowy, perfect for winter sports like snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

Nightlife Guide

Amherst at Night

Amherst offers a relaxed nightlife scene with a few bars and pubs featuring live music, karaoke nights, and trivia events. The atmosphere is friendly, making it easy to mingle with locals. While not as vibrant as larger cities, the nightlife provides a charming experience with a local twist.

Hiking in Amherst

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cape Chignecto Coastal Trail

A stunning 52 km trail offering breathtaking views of cliffs and the Bay of Fundy.

Fundy Footpath

A challenging trail that runs along the Bay of Fundy, showcasing diverse wildlife and scenic landscapes.

Airports

How to reach Amherst by plane.

Moncton International Airport (YQM)

Located about 45 minutes from Amherst, this airport offers domestic and limited international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Amherst is a walkable town with many amenities located within a short distance from each other. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and the town center is pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Many families reside in Amherst, contributing to a community-oriented atmosphere.

Artists

The town is home to a vibrant arts community, with many artists and creatives drawn to the area's beauty.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Hockey

Ice hockey is a beloved sport in Amherst, with local teams and community support.

Lacrosse

Lacrosse is also popular, with youth leagues and community events promoting the sport.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Amherst is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation options are limited, but local taxi services are available for longer distances.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Amherst.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to call ahead.

Gluten-Free Choices

Some eateries provide gluten-free options; ensure to notify the staff of any dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Amherst is accessible, with local clinics and hospitals providing medical services. Emergency services are available, and residents have access to general practitioners and specialists in the area.

Discover Canada

Read more in our Canada 2025 Travel Guide.

Canada Travel Guide