Fredericton in New Brunswick is the perfect destination for an inter-generational family trip as Claire Zlobin discovered recently, on a visit with her mom and sisters, but no kids.
Family trip, Fredericton, New Brunswick
Our recent mom and daughters trip to New Brunswick, proved to me and my two sisters that family travel isn’t just for young children; it’s also an amazing experience for parents and their grown-up kids. Although this Fredericton, New Brunswick itinerary is suitable for families with kids of any age, and works whether you want adventure or relaxation or a bit of both.
Hilton Garden Inn Downtown Fredericton
Welcome to Fredericton, capital of New Brunswick
The Hilton Garden Inn Fredericton Downtown, is one of the city’s newest hotels. It opened late 2018 and is located just steps from restaurants, shopping, galleries, and the Historic Garrison District.
We booked adjoining rooms, which is always a good option when traveling as a family—especially since someone is bound to forget a key in the room. So having an adjoining room eliminates the hassle of going to the front desk and waiting in line for a new key.
Also, our rooms offered a beautiful view of downtown, and when the weather was nice, we made sure to visit the rooftop patio. The hotel’s full-service restaurant, The Pickle Jar, serves up bold flavors for lunch and dinner, and the trendy gin bar, Southside Shake, is known for its extensive collection of over 80 gins. Plus, every Friday and Saturday night, they host a Gin & Jazz series with live music on the patio.
Good to know, if you want free parking in downtown, just stop into the Visitor Info Centre at 494 Queen St. and ask for your multi-day pass.
Pipe band, New Brunswick Highland Games
Fun things to do in Fredericton, all summer long
From 7 to 8.30pm in Officers’ Square, just a block from our hotel, we joined the community dance party as part of the new weekly summer programming in the Historic Garrison District.
Alternatively, Fredericton boasts a 120-km trail network along the stunning Wolastoq (Saint John River) and Nashwaak Rivers. These trails are perfect for walking, running, or biking and connect to the greater Trans Canada Trail.
Don’t miss the Bill Thorpe Walking Bridge, it offers one of the most spectacular views of downtown, as well as being an ideal spot for golden hour photos.
Fredericton also hosts many festivals throughout the summer, so it’s worth checking in advance to see what’s happening during your visit.
One must-see event is the New Brunswick Highland Games Festival: the largest Highland Games Festival in Atlantic Canada. This festival features world-class piping and drumming, the thrilling Massed Bands performance; Scottish athletic games like caber tossing; Highland dance competitions; Celtic music, and hands-on workshops where you can learn to play the bagpipes, speak Gaelic, or sample whiskey. Don’t forget to try traditional Scottish treats.
Another fantastic evening activity within walking distance from our hotel was the Garrison Night Market (open Thursdays from 4.30 to 9pm on Carleton Street in the Historic Garrison District). The market features 100+ vendors selling handmade crafts, local farm products, microbrews, and delicious food. Live music and a vibrant atmosphere make this a must-visit for both locals and travelers. We grabbed some goodies then headed to Officers’ Square for the Thursday Summer Concert Series.
Riverwalk, Fredericton, New Brunswick
How to do Downtown Fredericton just walking around
A great way to explore the New Brunswick capital is by foot. Fredericton’s small size makes it easy to navigate downtown via flat sidewalks or riverside trails.
You’ll find a fantastic mix of free historic sites too, such as the Legislative Assembly of New Brunswick, Christ Church Cathedral, and the Fredericton Region Museum.
Additionally, the area features unique boutiques, artisan studios, smaller galleries, and cozy cafés all within walking distance of each other.
Although one of the main highlights of our trip was the Calithumpians walking tour, which departs from Barracks Square at 10am or 2.30pm. It’s a free one-hour tour, led by historically costumed guides and offers an entertaining look at Fredericton’s past through local history and folklore. The route is a gentle, accessible walk that takes you to the Historic Garrison District, Old Public Burial Ground, the Provincial Legislative Building, and former homes of notable Frederictonians.
My mom absolutely loved this tour, and we all agreed it was a fantastic intergenerational activity.
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- Paddling, Wolastoq River
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- Claire & family, New Brunswick Black History Society
New Brunswick first-time paddling adventures
Feeling adventurous? My mom paddled for the first time at age 65! If she can do it, anyone can.
We took an afternoon paddle on the Wolastoq, exploring the Saint John River: a Canadian Heritage River rich in history, biology, and indigenous culture. Wolastoq Adventures rent kayaks but, new this summer, they’re also offering Sunset Cruises and Traditional Tours aboard a 10-passenger pontoon boat.
Traditional Tours will provide an opportunity to learn about the rich heritage and traditions of the Wolastoqey people from guides who will share captivating stories and insights into the history, culture, and connection to the Wolastoq/Saint John River.
Medicine Walk, Wabanaki Tree Spirit Tours ©Neal White
Take a Medicine Walk with Wabanaki Tree Spirit Tours
One of the most enriching activities we experienced was the Medicine Walk with Wabanaki Tree Spirit Tours through the Fredericton Botanic Gardens and Odell Park: the city’s old-growth forest.
Our guide, Cecelia Brooks, and her son Anthony, shared incredible knowledge about medicinal and edible plants, wild foods, Wabanaki history, and cultural storytelling. So this was a truly special way to connect with the land and its indigenous roots.
Kings Landing, New Brunswick
Visit heritage Kings Landing in New Brunswick
Did you at any point watch Little House On The Prairie? Well this is the chance to live out your childhood at Kings Landing in New Brunswick, at the award-winning signature attraction which offers visitors an authentic 1800s experience.
Located in the majestic Saint John River Valley, it immerses you in the sights, sounds, colours, and personalities of that point in time. You can enjoy the bustle of farm life, as well as tantalizing aromas from old-fashioned kitchens, and the distant melodies from lively fiddlers and dancing townsfolk combine to create an experience unlike any other.
To get an even fuller sense of the time, stop for lunch at King’s Head Inn, in the heart of the recreated 19th century village, where you’ll be eating traditional New Brunswick fare, served by costumed wait staff.
Although for us, visiting and learning about Emancipation Day & Gordon House was the most eye-opening experience of all.
On August 1, 1834, slavery was abolished in British North America and other British colonies, freeing enslaved people in Canada. Emancipation Day is in partnership with the New Brunswick Black History Society. If you are traveling with kids, they’ll love going into the various places like the school, the church, and seeing the homes and how people lived in the 1800s.
Bear Island Kingdome, New Brunswick
Indulge yourself with a luxurious stay at Bear Island Kingdome
I love to break up our trips into something familiar alongside something unique and different. So imagine the ultimate glamping experience, then pair it with the amenities of a luxury hotel, and that’s what you get at Bear Island Kingdome.
This luxury glamping retreat, immersed in nature, features geodesic domes and cottages with stunning waterfront views. Each dome has water access and a dock, plus plenty of fun add-ons like snowshoes, a projector, fishing gear, and even a fondue or pizza kit.
Plus, in the evening, we could explore a range of nearby dining options, including Big Axe Brewery and Nackawic Waterfront Pub. Then, as a bonus, we also visited The World’s Largest Axe, which made for some fun photo opportunities.
Eco-tours, Crabbe Mountain Inn
More adventures to add to any New Brunswick family trip
To top off our trip, we went on a sunset sailing excursion with Beyond Expectations Sailing Tours. This voyage was on the Wolastoq again, and turned out to be one of the most relaxed, educational, and peaceful ways to enjoy the river.
Another fun and unique experience was Dancing Goat Therapy Farm, where we tried their LlamAzing Hikes and Llamastay Yoga. Much to our delight, llamas are gentle, friendly, and surprisingly great hiking companions!
Then, for an adrenaline rush, we did the Eco Off-Road Adventure Tour with Crabbe Mountain Inn, where our guide, Angela Whitlock, took us on a scenic journey through New Brunswick’s rugged landscapes in a fully enclosed off-road vehicle. And, as well as learning about local history, we saw beautiful countryside views, and enjoyed a picnic lunch.
No trip to Fredericton is complete without a meal at Claudine’s Eatery. This cozy, family-friendly restaurant is known for its all-day breakfast, comforting lunch options, and indulgent brunch specials. We absolutely loved the atmosphere and the creative menu, which includes favorites like Lobster Benny, Cinnamon Roll Pancakes, and hearty breakfast poutines. Claudine’s is a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy delicious, home-style meals with a Maritime twist.
Fredericton, New Brunswick
Fredericton, New Brunswick is the perfect mix of history, culture, adventure, and relaxation. Whether you want to try paddling and hiking or exploring local markets and indulging in East Coast comfort food, there was something for everyone. So if you’re looking for a destination that caters to all ages and interests, Fredericton should be at the top of your list!
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