Things To Do
in Bathurst
Bathurst is a charming city located in northeastern New Brunswick, Canada. With a rich history dating back to the early 1800s, Bathurst offers a blend of historic architecture and modern amenities. The city is known for its stunning waterfront views along the Bay of Chaleur and its vibrant cultural scene, including music festivals and art galleries.
Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy the many opportunities for hiking, fishing, and birdwatching in the surrounding natural landscapes.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Bathurst Heritage Museum, where you can learn about the region's rich history. Enjoy a walk along the beautiful waterfront afterwards.
Head to the local marketplace for lunch and try some delicious regional specialties. Spend the afternoon wandering through the charming streets filled with local shops.
Dine at a cozy restaurant serving seasonal cuisine. Cap off the night with a stroll by the river, enjoying the fresh air.
Rent a bicycle and explore the picturesque trails around the city. Stop by the local bakery for a quick breakfast before your ride.
Pack a picnic and head to one of the nearby parks for lunch surrounded by nature. Afterward, take a hike in the scenic areas surrounding Bathurst.
Return to town and unwind at a local café with a warm drink. Enjoy a peaceful evening sharing stories about your day’s adventure.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural surroundings and access to outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, and winter sports.
- A friendly and close-knit community with a small-town atmosphere.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger urban centers.
- Rich cultural heritage and history, with numerous local festivals and events.
- Good access to basic amenities and services for residents.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors, leading to a reliance on nearby cities for work.
- Harsh winters with significant snowfall can be challenging for some residents.
- Limited public transportation options, making a vehicle necessary for most.
- Fewer entertainment and dining options compared to larger cities.
- Access to specialized healthcare services may require travel to larger urban centers.
Best Activities in Bathurst
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning landscapes and scenic views along the numerous hiking trails in the Bathurst Highlands, suitable for all skill levels.
Enjoy a peaceful kayaking experience on the Nepisiguit River, where you can take in the natural surroundings and observe local wildlife.
Try your luck at fishing in Chaleur Bay, known for its rich marine life, including mackerel and striped bass.
Bike along the Acadian Coastal Drive, a scenic route that offers coastal views and access to charming villages.
Experience winter wonderland with snowshoeing in local parks and trails, offering a unique way to explore the snowy landscapes.
Camp under the stars at Mount Carleton Provincial Park, which offers breathtaking views and hiking opportunities.
Visit the Bathurst Bird Sanctuary to observe diverse bird species and enjoy the tranquil natural environment.
Relax and swim at Jacques Cartier Beach, which provides a beautiful spot for picnics and recreational activities.
Tours
Uncover the best of Bathurst with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Bathurst
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers sweeping views of the city, particularly stunning at sunset.
Beautiful historic garden with great photo opportunities.
Photogenic spot with a scenic backdrop for photos of local produce and crafts.
Scenic park with views of the city and a variety of natural landscapes.
Food in Bathurst
Bathurst Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty stew made with chicken, vegetables, and dumplings, simmered in a savory broth. Available at La Promenade Waterfront.
Must-Try!
Creamy and rich chowder loaded with fresh seafood such as lobster, scallops, and haddock. Best enjoyed at Bertin's Restaurant & Lounge.
A traditional Acadian dish consisting of grated potatoes formed into a dumpling and filled with seasoned pork, boiled, and served with syrup. Try it at Sormany Market or during Acadian festivals.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Bathurst better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore a bustling market where you can find local produce, artisanal goods, and street food ranging from freshly baked pastries to grilled seafood.
On weekends, the downtown area comes alive with a variety of food trucks offering diverse cuisines, perfect for a quick and tasty bite while exploring the city.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Bathurst is known for its diverse population. Show respect and appreciation for different cultures by being open-minded and willing to learn about others' traditions and practices.
Canadians generally appreciate personal space and may be uncomfortable with close proximity. Maintain an appropriate distance during conversations and be mindful of non-verbal cues.
Politeness is highly valued in Canadian culture. Always use 'please,' 'thank you,' and 'sorry' when appropriate. Address people using their titles and last names until invited to use first names.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Bathurst with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Bathurst
Ensure a smooth experience
In Bathurst, Canada, tipping is generally expected in service industries such as restaurants, bars, and taxis. The standard tip ranges from 15% to 20% of the total bill, depending on the level of service received. It's common to round up the bill or leave a small amount of change for good service. In some cases, particularly in larger groups, a gratuity may be automatically included in the bill.
Payment practices in Bathurst are similar to those in other Canadian cities. Cash is widely accepted, but credit and debit cards are preferred by many businesses for convenience. Digital payment methods, such as mobile wallets, are also gaining popularity. Taxes are included in the price of goods and services in most cases, and it's common for businesses to provide receipts for transactions.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Bathurst.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Bathurst, Canada, as the weather starts to get warmer and the snow begins to melt. You can expect budding trees, blooming flowers, and the possibility of outdoor activities such as hiking and birdwatching.
Summer is the peak tourist season in Bathurst, Canada, with warm weather and plenty of outdoor activities available. Visitors can expect festivals, outdoor markets, and opportunities for water sports and beach activities.
Fall is a beautiful time to visit Bathurst, Canada, as the foliage transforms into stunning shades of red, orange, and yellow. Visitors can expect pleasant temperatures, harvest festivals, and the chance to enjoy scenic drives through the fall foliage.
Winter in Bathurst, Canada, brings opportunities for snow sports such as skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling. Visitors can expect cold temperatures, snowy landscapes, and the chance to experience winter festivals and events.
Bathurst at Night
Hiking in Bathurst
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located about an hour from Bathurst, Mount Carleton Provincial Park offers stunning views and various hiking trails ranging from easy to challenging.
This scenic trail runs along the Restigouche River and provides beautiful views and access to various outdoor activities including hiking.
A family-friendly area that features walking trails and access to Sandy Beach, perfect for a relaxing day out in nature.
Located a short drive from Bathurst, it offers hiking trails with different levels of difficulty and opportunities for wildlife viewing.
This trail provides a peaceful hiking experience along the shores of the Neguac area, surrounded by nature.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Bathurst through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Bathurst by plane.
Located in Fredericton, New Brunswick, approximately 190 kilometers from Bathurst, this airport offers various domestic and limited international flights.
Situated in Moncton, New Brunswick, about 215 kilometers from Bathurst, this airport provides a range of domestic services and some international destinations.
Located in Saint John, New Brunswick, around 250 kilometers from Bathurst, this airport primarily serves domestic flights with occasional international services.
This airport in Quebec City, Quebec, is roughly 380 kilometers from Bathurst and handles both domestic and international flights.
Located in Halifax, Nova Scotia, about 450 kilometers from Bathurst, this is the largest airport in the Atlantic Canada region offering numerous international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Bathurst, primarily consisting of individuals whose first language is English.
A significant portion of the population; many residents are bilingual, reflecting the city's Acadian heritage.
Includes various First Nations groups with a historical presence in the region.
Includes a growing number of immigrants from various countries, contributing to cultural diversity.
The Soul of Bathurst
Discover the essence of Bathurst through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Ice hockey is a very popular sport in Bathurst, with community involvement at both youth and adult levels. The city's local teams compete in various leagues.
Football, or soccer, is widely played among youth and adults in Bathurst, with several local clubs promoting the sport.
Baseball enjoys a strong following in Bathurst, with recreational leagues and youth programs in place.
Rugby has a growing presence in Bathurst, with clubs that cater to various age groups and skill levels.
Basketball is a popular sport in schools and recreational leagues throughout Bathurst, offering programs for all ages.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bathurst.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Bathurst's traditional cuisine is meat-centric, several restaurants and cafes offer creative vegetarian and vegan options, such as flavorful salads, plant-based sandwiches, and hearty soups.
Many establishments in Bathurst provide gluten-free alternatives, including gluten-free bread, pasta, and dedicated menu items to accommodate those with gluten sensitivities.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Bathurst with these cultural adventures.