Things To Do
in Moncton

Moncton is a vibrant city located in New Brunswick, Canada, known for its rich cultural diversity and welcoming atmosphere. It serves as a central hub for exploring the stunning Bay of Fundy and its renowned tides. The city boasts a variety of attractions, including parks, museums, and a lively downtown filled with shops and restaurants.

Moncton is also recognized for its Acadian heritage, celebrating the French-speaking community that contributes to the city's unique character.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering the City
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Magnetic Hill, where you can experience the optical illusion of a 'hill' that appears to pull vehicles uphill. Afterwards, head to the Moncton Museum to learn about the city’s history.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local café, then explore the scenic Riverfront Park, which offers beautiful views of the Petitcodiac River and walking paths. Visit the Tidal Bore, a natural phenomenon where the Bay of Fundy tides rush up the river.

evening
:

Dine at a popular local seafood restaurant, followed by a show or live music at the Capitol Theatre, one of Moncton’s historic venues.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin your day with breakfast at a local diner before heading to the nearby Magnetic Hill Zoo, where you can see a variety of animals and enjoy the natural surroundings.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a nearby food market, then spend the afternoon visiting the Resurgo Place, an interactive museum focusing on the region's transportation and culture.

evening
:

Finish your trip with dinner at a trendy downtown restaurant and take a leisurely stroll through the city to enjoy the local nightlife.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍕Pizza$15
🍔Burger Meal$12
Coffee$4
🚍Public Transportation Ticket$3
🏨Hotel Night$100

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and diversity.
  • Beautiful natural surroundings and outdoor activities.
  • Vibrant local food scene.
  • Limited public transportation options.
  • Cold winters may deter some visitors.
  • Smaller city with fewer major attractions compared to larger cities.

Places to Visit in Moncton

Visit one of these nice places.

Magnetic Hill

Capture the unique phenomenon of Magnetic Hill, where gravity seems to defy itself, providing great opportunities for quirky photos.

Tidal Bore

Photograph the impressive Tidal Bore as it rushes up the Petitcodiac River, a natural wonder unique to the region.

Riverfront Park

A picturesque park along the river, perfect for sunset shots, with scenic walking paths and views of the city skyline.

Culinary Guide

Food in Moncton

Moncton offers a delightful culinary scene that showcases the flavors of Atlantic Canada, with an emphasis on fresh seafood and local produce.

Moncton Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Fried Clams

Crispy battered clams, often served with tartar sauce, are a must-try in Moncton, showcasing the region's seafood heritage.

Must-Try!

Poutine

A Quebec classic that has made its way to Moncton, poutine consists of fries topped with cheese curds and gravy, perfect for a late-night snack.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Moncton Market

A lively farmers market that features local produce, artisanal products, and street food vendors offering a variety of delicious snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Moncton experiences a humid continental climate, characterized by four distinct seasons. Winters can be cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing and significant snowfall. Summers are warm and humid, with average highs around 25°C (77°F). Spring and fall are transitional, offering mild temperatures and colorful foliage, particularly in autumn.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

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

Queuing

Respect the queue in public places and wait your turn patiently in line.

Cultural Sensitivity

Be respectful of the local Acadian culture and traditions, and learn a few words in French when possible.

Safety Guide

Safety

Moncton is generally considered a safe city, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas and keep your belongings secure. Familiarize yourself with local emergency numbers and the location of nearby hospitals.

Tipping in Moncton

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip service staff around 15-20% for good service in restaurants and bars.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments or markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings mild weather and blooming flowers, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Summer is warm and lively, with plenty of outdoor events, beaches nearby, and opportunities for hiking and exploring nature.

Fall

Fall showcases stunning foliage in the surrounding areas, making it a beautiful time for photography and scenic drives.

Winter

Winter can be harsh with snow and cold temperatures, but it offers activities like ice skating, snowshoeing, and winter festivals.

Nightlife Guide

Moncton at Night

Moncton's nightlife is vibrant and varied, offering something for everyone. The downtown area comes alive with bars, pubs, and live music venues. Local breweries provide a casual atmosphere for craft beer lovers, while the Capitol Theatre showcases performances ranging from theatre to concerts. Whether you enjoy a quiet cocktail lounge or a lively dance club, Moncton has a diverse range of nightlife options.

Hiking in Moncton

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cape Chignecto Coastal Trail

Located about an hour from Moncton, this trail offers stunning coastal views and rugged terrain, ideal for experienced hikers.

Fundy National Park Trails

Several hiking trails within Fundy National Park provide a range of difficulties and breathtaking views, perfect for nature lovers.

Airports

How to reach Moncton by plane.

Greater Moncton Roméo LeBlanc International Airport

Located just 10 minutes from downtown, this airport offers domestic and limited international flights, making it the main gateway for travelers to Moncton.

Getting Around

Walkability

Moncton is relatively walkable, especially in the downtown area where many attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and the city has pedestrian-friendly infrastructure. However, some suburbs may require a vehicle to access various points of interest.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Acadian Community

A significant portion of Moncton's population identifies as Acadian, contributing to the city's French-speaking culture and heritage.

English-speaking Residents

English speakers also form a large demographic, reflecting the bilingual nature of the region and the diverse community.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Hockey

Ice hockey is a popular sport in Moncton, with the Moncton Wildcats being a competitive team in the QMJHL.

Football

Canadian football is also popular, with local teams participating in various leagues and community events.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Moncton is generally manageable, with peak hours during the morning and evening commutes. Public transportation options include buses that cover main routes within the city, but service may be limited during evenings and weekends. Rideshare services are available as well for convenient transportation.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Moncton.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Moncton offer vegetarian dishes; however, it’s advisable to check menus or ask staff for specific options.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are increasingly available, but confirm with the restaurant to ensure safe meals.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Moncton has several healthcare facilities, including the Moncton Hospital, which provides emergency and specialized care. Residents and visitors can access healthcare services through the Canada Health Act, which covers essential medical services. Travelers are advised to have travel insurance for additional coverage.

Discover Canada

Read more in our Canada 2025 Travel Guide.

Canada Travel Guide