Canada is a country full of surprises, where local experiences go beyond the usual tourist routes and offer a deeper connection to its culture, heritage, and landscapes. If you’re searching for unique experiences in Canada, you’re in the right place. From thrilling wildlife encounters in coastal British Columbia to learning ancient crafts in Ontario, there’s no shortage of unforgettable activities that bring you closer to the country’s roots (and off the well trodden path). These unique experiences give you a chance to experience Canada in ways that few ever do.
1. Go whale watching at the First Nation village site of Aupe
Off the coast of Vancouver Island, the waters around Aupe, an ancient First Nation village site, are teeming with life. This whale-watching experience goes beyond spotting orcas and humpbacks; it’s a journey into the deep-rooted connection between the land, the water, and the Indigenous peoples who have called this area home for millennia.
Led by knowledgeable local guides, you’ll cruise through the Discovery Passage, learning about the rich history of the We Wai Kai Nation while keeping an eye out for sea lions, bald eagles, and breaching whales. Unlike your average boat tour, this experience weaves storytelling, culture, and conservation into an unforgettable marine adventure.
2. Enjoy a historical food tour through Montreal
Montréal’s culinary scene is as rich as its history, and there’s no better way to experience both than on a food tour through its vibrant neighbourhoods. With your local guide by your side, this tour blends the city’s French, British, and immigrant influences into a feast of flavours, stopping at historic eateries and hidden gems that only locals know!
From iconic Montréal-style bagels to charcuterie and craft beer, each tasting tells a story of the city’s cultural evolution. Along the way, you’ll be told tales of Old Montréal’s past, stroll through lively markets, and get a true taste of Québécois hospitality. For food lovers looking for an authentic local experience in Canada, this tour serves up history one bite at a time.
3. Hike to a back country cooking class
Lace up your hiking boots and bring your appetite – this mountain adventure in Jasper National Park is more than just a scenic trek. On this unique experience, your guide will lead you along alpine trails, sharing insights into the region’s geology, wildlife, and Indigenous history as you hike.
But the real reward comes after the climb. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, you’ll take part in a backcountry cooking class, where you’ll learn how to prepare a gourmet meal using traditional outdoor techniques. Surrounded by the giant peaks of the Canadian Rockies, you’ll enjoy a well-earned feast, proving that wilderness dining can be just as satisfying as the hike itself.
4. Spot grizzly bears in the wild with an Indigenous guide
Few wildlife encounters are as thrilling as watching grizzly bears roam their natural habitat, and in Campbell River, you can do just that. On this guided tour, you’ll journey by boat through the incredible waterways of British Columbia to reach prime grizzly-viewing spots in the traditional territories of the Homalco First Nation.
Along the way, allow a First Nation’s guide to share their knowledge about local culture, share insights into the bears’ behaviour, the region’s delicate ecosystem, and Indigenous conservation efforts. With a chance to witness these powerful creatures up-close respectfully fishing for salmon against a backdrop of misty fjords and dense coastal forests, this is certainly one of the most unforgettable local experiences in Canada.
5. Take a wine tour in Kelowna
Kelowna is a hidden gem in Canada’s wine scene, often bypassed by tourists but not to be missed. Located in the Okanagan Valley, the region’s winemaking roots date back to the 1850s. Today, Kelowna is home to a mix of award-winning wineries, offering everything from full-bodied reds to the famous ice wine.
A wine tour here is a laid-back experience, where visitors can explore smaller, family-run wineries, sample locally crafted wines, and enjoy scenic views over the valley. It’s a refreshing alternative to the more crowded wine regions and a must-do for wine lovers looking for something off the beaten path that supports local economies!
6. Ride a bobsled like an Olympian in Whistler
Whistler is known for its world-class skiing, but if you’re after something truly thrilling (and entirely unique), why not try bobsledding like an Olympian? It’s your chance to feel the speed and excitement of a professional sliding track, with a trained pilot steering you through the curves at speeds up to 78 mph (125 kph). This local experience lets you connect with Whistler’s Olympic legacy in a way few visitors get to. Everything here is authentic: the track crew, the safety checks, and even the green-light signals from the official control tower. It’s certainly an experience you’ll never forget.
7. Try your hand at blacksmithing in Ontario
For a truly hands-on experience in Ontario, why not try your hand at blacksmithing? This beginner-friendly workshop lets you step into the shoes of a skilled artisan, hammering metal on an anvil and learning the ancient craft of blacksmithing. Under the guidance of expert instructors, you’ll create your own custom piece; whether it’s a hook, knife, or small decorative item, you’ll use traditional tools and techniques that have shaped the region’s history. It’s the perfect way to connect with Ontario’s past while forging something uniquely yours to take home.
Try these 7 unique experiences in Canada
- Go whale watching at the First Nation village site of Aupe
- Enjoy a historical food tour through Montreal
- Hike to a back country cooking class
- Spot grizzly bears in the wild with an Indigenous guide
- Take a wine tour in Kelowna
- Ride a bobsled like an Olympian in Whistler
- Try your hand at blacksmithing in Ontario
