Things To Do
in Gander

Gander, Canada, is a charming town located in Newfoundland and Labrador, known for its rich aviation history and stunning natural surroundings. Once a key refueling stop for transatlantic flights, Gander now offers visitors a blend of cultural experiences and outdoor adventures. The town is surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, including forests, lakes, and hiking trails, making it a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts.

With a warm community spirit and a variety of local events, Gander provides an inviting atmosphere for travelers.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Gander
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local café, then visit the North Atlantic Aviation Museum to learn about Gander's historical significance during World War II.

afternoon
:

Take a scenic drive to Silent Witness Memorial, followed by a leisurely walk around Gander Heritage Memorial Park to enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

evening
:

Dine at a local seafood restaurant and then catch a live performance at the College of the North Atlantic.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before heading to Thomas Howe Demonstration Forest for a guided nature walk.

afternoon
:

Visit the Little Harbour Marina for kayaking or canoeing, followed by a picnic at one of the nearby parks.

evening
:

Wrap up your trip with dinner at a cozy bistro and explore local shops for souvenirs.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a Restaurant$20-30
Coffee$3-5
🚕Taxi Ride$10-15
🏨Hotel Night$100-150
🛒Groceries (weekly)$75-100

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich history and cultural heritage.
  • Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Friendly, welcoming community.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Can be remote, with fewer amenities than larger cities.
  • Weather can be unpredictable.

Places to Visit in Gander

Visit one of these nice places.

Silent Witness Memorial

A poignant site with stunning views, perfect for capturing the beauty of Gander's landscapes.

Little Harbour Marina

Offers picturesque waterfront scenes, ideal for sunset photography.

Gander Heritage Memorial Park

A beautifully maintained park with monuments and gardens, great for nature and portrait photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Gander

Gander offers a delightful culinary scene that showcases the flavors of Newfoundland and Labrador, with an emphasis on fresh seafood and hearty local dishes.

Gander Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Jigg's Dinner

A traditional Newfoundland dish featuring boiled salt beef, vegetables, and pease pudding.

Must-Try!

Fish and Brewis

A dish made with salted cod and hard bread, often served with scrunchions.

Toutons

Fried dough served with molasses or syrup, often enjoyed for breakfast.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Gander Farmers' Market

A vibrant market offering fresh produce, local crafts, and homemade baked goods.

Climate Guide

Weather

Gander experiences a humid continental climate, with warm summers and cold winters. Summers (June to August) average temperatures between 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), while winters (December to February) can drop to -15°C (5°F) or lower. Spring and autumn transition seasons are short, with mild temperatures and occasional rain.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

A friendly greeting and smile are appreciated; locals value politeness.

Respect for Nature

As a community that cherishes its natural surroundings, be mindful of the environment during outdoor activities.

Community Events

Participating in local events is encouraged and shows respect for Gander's culture.

Safety Guide

Safety

Gander is generally a safe town with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as securing personal belongings and being aware of your surroundings, especially in isolated outdoor areas.

Tipping in Gander

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip service staff around 15-20%, especially in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Most establishments accept credit and debit cards, but it's wise to carry some cash for smaller vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flora, making it perfect for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm weather attracts many visitors; enjoy hiking, kayaking, and local festivals.

Autumn

Fall foliage creates stunning landscapes; it's a great time for photography and hiking.

Winter

Cold temperatures and snowfall provide opportunities for winter sports like snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

Nightlife Guide

Gander at Night

Gander's nightlife is relatively low-key, with a few local pubs and bars that provide a cozy atmosphere for socializing. Live music events occur occasionally, and community gatherings are popular. The Royal Canadian Legion is a notable spot where locals gather for social events and entertainment.

Hiking in Gander

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Thomas Howe Demonstration Forest

A well-marked trail system suitable for all skill levels, offering educational signage and scenic views.

Gander Heritage Trail

A longer trail that runs through various landscapes, ideal for a day of hiking and nature observation.

Airports

How to reach Gander by plane.

Gander International Airport (YQX)

Located just outside the town, it serves as the main airport for Gander, offering flights to major Canadian cities and some international destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Gander is a small town that is quite walkable, particularly in the downtown area where many shops, cafes, and parks are within walking distance. Sidewalks are available, and the community is generally pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Indigenous Peoples

The Mi'kmaq and Innu are among the Indigenous groups in the area, contributing to the cultural diversity of Gander.

Newcomers

Gander has seen an influx of newcomers from various parts of Canada and abroad, adding to its multicultural fabric.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Ice Hockey

A beloved sport in Gander, with local teams and youth leagues fostering community spirit.

Rugby

Gander has a growing rugby community, with clubs offering opportunities for both youth and adults.

Transportation

Traffic

Gander experiences light traffic, typical of a small town. Public transportation options are limited, but local taxis and rideshares are available. Most residents rely on personal vehicles for commuting.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Gander.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian/Vegan

While options may be limited, many restaurants are willing to accommodate dietary restrictions if notified in advance.

Gluten-Free

Some local eateries offer gluten-free options, but it's advisable to check menus beforehand.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Gander has access to healthcare services through the Central Newfoundland Regional Health Centre. Urgent care and general health services are available, but for specialized medical needs, residents may need to travel to larger cities like St. John's.

Discover Canada

Read more in our Canada 2025 Travel Guide.

Canada Travel Guide