Things to Do New Brunswick: Discover Hidden Villages, Lighthouses & Chocolate City Treats
June 5, 2025
Discovering Things to Do New Brunswick is like opening a treasure chest. This province offers hidden villages, scenic lighthouses, and even chocolate treats in quaint towns. Whether you love history, nature, or sweets, New Brunswick has something for you. This guide will help you plan a friendly and clear trip to explore its best spots.
Explore Hidden Villages
Small villages in New Brunswick offer a peaceful escape. Here are some top spots and tips:
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St. Andrews: Walk along the historic streets and visit boutique shops. You can also take a scenic boat tour to nearby islands.
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Alma: Start your day with fresh seafood and watch the Fundy tides at Fundy National Park. Hike easy trails and look for moose in the early morning.
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Mavillette: This Acadian village has a beautiful beach and local markets. Sample fresh blueberries and homemade pies.
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Gagetown: Wander through streets lined with heritage homes. Stop at local art galleries and cafes.
If you’re flying in, check for great deals to reach these villages:
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Cheapest flight tickets from Calgary to Saint John lets you land in Saint John and drive to these villages.
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Affordable flights from Vancouver to Moncton get you close to Fundy National Park.
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Flights from Winnipeg to Fredericton Airport are perfect if you want to start in the capital.
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Best flight deals from Edmonton to Saint John help you explore the Bay of Fundy region first.
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Round-trip flights from Kelowna to Moncton offer seasonal discounts for summer visits.
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Cheap round-trip flights from Lethbridge to Fredericton save you money on a quick getaway.
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Last minute flights to Saint John from Brandon can be handy for spontaneous trips.
Tips for Visiting Villages
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Rent a car: Public transport is limited. A car lets you reach hidden gems easily.
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Check local markets: Many villages host weekly farmers’ markets. You’ll find homemade jams and crafts.
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Stay in B&Bs: Guesthouses offer personal touches and local stories.
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Plan for changing weather: Coastal areas can be windy and cool. Bring layers and a rain jacket.
Discover Scenic Lighthouses
New Brunswick’s coastline boasts numerous lighthouses. They stand as sentinels, guiding ships and offering great photo ops:
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Cape Enrage Lighthouse: Near Riverside-Albert, this lighthouse perches on rugged cliffs. You can rappel down the cliffs or take a zip line for a thrill.
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East Point Lighthouse: Located on Deer Island, reach it by ferry. Enjoy panoramic views of the Bay of Fundy and watch for whales.
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Point Prim Lighthouse: Just outside Shediac, this red lighthouse is the oldest in the province. Climb the stairs and enjoy views of the Northumberland Strait.
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St. Martins Head Lighthouse: Explore nearby sea caves at low tide. Don’t miss the covered bridge and waterfalls in the same village.
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Campobello Island Lighthouse: Accessible via a border crossing from Maine. Combine your trip with a visit to Roosevelt Campobello International Park.
How to Plan Your Lighthouse Tour
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Check ferry schedules: Some lighthouses, like Deer Island, require a ferry ride. Book in advance during summer.
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Bring snacks and water: Lighthouses are often remote. Pack a picnic to enjoy by the sea.
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Watch tide tables: At St. Martins, low tide reveals caves and a sea floor walkway.
By visiting these lighthouses, you’ll see why Things to Do New Brunswick include coastal adventures and maritime history.
Indulge in Chocolate City Treats
Did you know New Brunswick has its own Chocolate City? St. Stephen, often called “Chocolate Capital,” is a must-visit for sweet lovers:
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Ganong Chocolate Factory Tour: Watch chocolatiers craft truffles and chocolate bars. Learn how this family business started in 1873.
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Chocolate Museum: Discover vintage molds, old cookware, and historic ads. See how chocolate shapes changed over time.
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Local Chocolate Shops: Taste unique flavors like maple-infused chocolate or sea salt caramel. Pick up boxes to share with friends.
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Chocolate Fest: If you visit in May, join this annual festival. Street vendors, live music, and chocolate-themed contests make it fun for all ages.
Benefits of a Chocolate Adventure
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Fun for families: Kids and adults love tasting and learning about chocolate.
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Unique souvenirs: Handcrafted boxes and special bars make perfect gifts.
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Learn local history: Chocolate making is part of St. Stephen’s heritage. Hear stories from longtime families.
While in the area, explore nearby attractions:
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Minister’s Island: Walk across a sandbar at low tide or take a boat when the tide is high.
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Oak Bay Wilderness Area: Hike trails through forests and wetlands. Watch for eagles and deer.
When planning your trip, look for flights that take you close to St. Stephen:
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Cheapest airfares to Saint John can help you land near the Chocolate City.
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Airlines flying to Moncton give you options to explore both north and south parts of New Brunswick.
Practical Travel Tips and Advice
Exploring Things to Do New Brunswick is easier with a few simple steps:
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Book flights early: Summer and fall are busy seasons. Secure your seat months in advance.
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Pack for all seasons: Coastal winds can chill you, even in July. Always have a light jacket and waterproof layers.
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Download offline maps: Some villages have weak cell service. Save routes before you go.
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Support local businesses: Buy crafts, eat at small diners, and stay in family-run B&Bs. Your visit helps local economies.
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Learn basic French: Simple phrases like “bonjour” and “merci” go a long way in New Brunswick’s bilingual communities.
Conclusion: Start Your New Brunswick Adventure
Now you know top Things to Do New Brunswick: wander hidden villages, marvel at lighthouses, and savor Chocolate City treats. From St. Andrews to St. Stephen, each stop offers friendly locals and memorable experiences. Remember to grab Cheapest flight tickets from Calgary to Saint John or Affordable flights from Vancouver to Moncton well in advance. Pack layers, book a car, and get ready for a trip that combines nature, history, and sweetness. Your New Brunswick adventure starts now—go explore!