Things To Do
in Amherst
Amherst is a small town in Nova Scotia's Cumberland County along the Sunrise Trail, close to the Minas Basin and NB border. It blends historic charm with friendly hospitality and easy access to marshes, rivers, and coastal scenery. The town serves as a gateway to the Tantramar Marshes and nearby NB communities, offering a mix of heritage sites and scenic walks.
With a relaxed pace and welcoming locals, Amherst is ideal for a laid-back, nature-rich getaway.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing hike through the scenic trails of Cape Chignecto Coastal Park. Enjoy the stunning views of the Bay of Fundy as you breathe in the fresh ocean air. A packed breakfast can enhance this beautiful morning experience.
Visit the charming town center of Amherst, where you can explore local shops and enjoy a delightful lunch at a cozy café. Don't forget to stop by the Cumberland County Museum to learn about the area's rich history. This mix of culture and good food will surely keep your spirits high.
As the sun sets, head to one of the local restaurants to savor delicious regional dishes. After your meal, take a leisurely evening stroll along the town's waterfront, enjoying the peaceful ambiance. This perfect conclusion to your first day will leave you excited for the days ahead.
Start your day with a visit to the historic Amherts Golf Club for a round of golf or a morning walk in the lush greens. The tranquility of the course sets a perfect tone for the day. Grab breakfast at a nearby diner for some local flavors.
Spend your afternoon immersed in art at the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia, where you can view stunning local and international exhibitions. Take a break with lunch in the gallery’s café, which serves fresh and creative dishes. This blend of creativity and cuisine will inspire your day.
Wind down your day by attending a live music event or a theater performance at the local community center. Enjoy the vibrant arts scene that Amherst offers, and make sure to connect with locals to gain their insights. As the night wraps up, head for a quiet dessert at a well-reviewed bakery.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 CAD |
| 🍽️Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $40-70 CAD |
| 🏨Hotel per night | $90-160 CAD |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $60-100 CAD |
| 🚆Public transit fare | $3-7 CAD |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly, small-town vibe with marshland and coastal scenery nearby
- Proximity to NB border and outdoor recreation opportunities
- Limited nightlife and big-city amenities
- Seasonal tourism can affect opening hours for some shops and markets
Places to Visit in Amherst
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic fortress on the New Brunswick border with commanding river and marsh views, ideal for dramatic landscape shots.
Expansive salt marshes that create wide-open skies and reflective water scenes—great at sunrise and sunset.
Historic brick storefronts and well-preserved façades provide classic small-town photography opportunities.
Historic building with interior exhibits and exterior architecture worth capturing for a sense of place.
Food in Amherst
Amherst Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh lobster meat on a light roll with mayo; commonly found at waterfront cafés and casual eateries around town.
Must-Try!
Creamy haddock or shellfish chowder, a Nova Scotian staple available in many local cafés and diners.
A quick, flavorful wrap popular across the Maritimes; easy to find at casual eateries in Amherst.
Seasonal dessert featuring wild Maritime blueberries, a common find in local bakeries and cafés.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering fresh produce, dairy, baked goods, jams, and local crafts from area farms.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be courteous, queue for services, and greet with a handshake. Respect residential quiet hours and local customs when visiting small communities.
Safety
Tipping in Amherst
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, tipping 15-20% before tax is customary if service is satisfactory.
Most places accept cash, debit, and major credit cards; Interac is common for point-of-sale payments; ATMs are widely available.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with marine breezes; pack sunscreen, light layers, and be ready for occasional rain showers.
Cold temperatures with snowfall possible; dress in layers and be cautious of icy sidewalks and rural roads.
Mild days with advancing greenery; expect mud on trails early in the season and blooming marshlands.
Crisp air and vibrant foliage; ideal for scenic drives, marsh sunsets, and wildlife watching.
Amherst at Night
Hiking in Amherst
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Flat, accessible boardwalk through marsh habitat offering birdwatching and marsh views.
Historic fort grounds with short, scenic trails overlooking rivers and marshes.
Proximity to NB allows access to park trails around wetlands and wildlife viewing in a peaceful setting.
Airports
How to reach Amherst by plane.
Approximately a 2-hour drive from Amherst; serves domestic and some international flights with car rental access nearby.
Small international airport about 2.5-3 hours away by car, with regional flights and rental options.
Major international hub about 3.5-4 hours away by car; many connections and services available.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Primarily English-speaking with a mix of families, seniors, and students; Acadian and Indigenous histories are part of the regional tapestry.
Visiting families and nature lovers drawn to the Tantramar Marshes, historic sites, and coastal trails.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A core winter sport with local leagues and community arenas; popular among residents and visitors.
Seasonal sport with local clubs offering leagues and friendly games.
Established youth and adult leagues playing in parks and community fields during warmer months.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Amherst.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most cafés offer vegetarian options; ask for meat-free soups and veggie plates, and check markets for fresh produce to assemble meals.