Amanda PhillipsFredericton is the cultural and artistic capital of New Brunswick. It is home to many of the provinces most notable painters and was where many of Canada’s most renowned historic artists were born – including Goodridge Roberts, and Molly and Bruno Bobak. If it’s culture you’re looking for, you’ll find plenty of it in Fredericton. Here’s just 10 festival, activities, walking tours, sights and museums were recommend you visit while in this quaint city.
1. Historic Garrison District
If you only get to visit one place on this list we recommend this one. The Garrison is a centre for heritage, culture, craft and entertainment and looks out onto The Saint John River. Here you’ll find attractions, tours and daily free entertainment including the Changing of the Guard, tours, concerts, live theatre, outdoor films and gift shops all in one extraordinary place!
2. Beaverbrook Art Gallery
Beaverbrook Art Gallery is the designated provincial art gallery. Here you can admire outstanding art from an international collection featuring renowned and rising artists alike. There are also regular contemporary and historical exhibitions focusing on the visual culture of New Brunswick and the Atlantic region, and beyond.
3. Kings Landing
Escape the city with a journey to this open-air museum that transports you 200 years back in time. 35km West of Fredericton, you’ll find 40 exhibits, horseback riding, hands-on workshops, dining, shopping, as well as a 19th-century village full of costumed characters, farm animals and their incredible stories.
4. Guided Heritage Walking Tours
Get out and explore the city with a lively walking tour complete a historically-costumed guide leading the way. Stops along the way include the Historic Garrison District, the Old Public Burial Ground, the Provincial Legislative Building, and former homes of some famous Frederictonians.
5. Haunted Hikes
If the daytime Heritage Walking Tour is too tame for you, head out at night to explore the city’s most haunted sites. Lead by a costumed guide with a lantern lamp, this other-worldly tour will help you see another side to the New Brunswick’s capital.
6. Old Public Burial Ground
This is the most historically important city in New Brunswick. It is the final resting place for many of the families who founded New Brunswick – including first clergy, judges, and government officials. The gardens themselves are al
7. Fredericton Playhouse
If you enjoy live shows, head to the Fredericton Playhouse. This 709-soft-seat theatre is the place to catch live performances by regional, national, and international musicians, dance companies and theatre companies.
8. Lighthouse on the Green
A fantastic day out for all the family. Check out the breath-taking views of the Saint John River from the observation deck of the Lighthouse on the Green, and stop in at the interactive Saint John River Play & Learn Exhibit. You’ll also find a BBQ pit restaurant, complete with local craft beer and ice cream for dessert.
9. Officers’ Square
Officer’s Square is a historic square in the centre of Fredericton that is now used as a location for a variety of summer concerts. What will be on will depend on when you visit but performances usually include the Changing of the Guard Ceremony, daily outdoor summer theatre, Under the Stars Films Series, and a variety of other festivals and events throughout the year.
10. Fredericton Region Museum
Housed in the one-time Officers’ Quarters, the history of Fredericton and surrounding area is brought to life with interactive exhibitions, including exhibitions on the Aboriginal, Acadian and Loyalist inhabitants of the area. There’s also books, puzzles, and colouring stations for the children.
