Things To Do
in Edmundston
Edmundston is a bilingual city in northwestern New Brunswick, perched along the Madawaska River near the Quebec border. It blends Acadian and Francophone culture with outdoor appeal, from riverfront strolls to forest trails. Its historic streets, friendly locals, and seasonal festivals create a welcoming stop for travelers.
The surrounding Madawaska region rewards visitors with nature, culture, and a small-town atmosphere.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Edmundston and check into your hotel. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café while soaking in the small-town charm. Take a stroll through the picturesque streets to get acquainted with the area.
Visit the Edmundston Arts Center to appreciate the local art scene and exhibitions. Grab lunch at a nearby bistro that offers traditional Canadian dishes. Spend the afternoon exploring the nearby Madawaska River and take a paddleboat ride if the weather permits.
Enjoy dinner at a renowned restaurant known for its regional specialties. After dinner, take a scenic walk along the riverfront and enjoy the sunset views. Wind down with a drink at a cozy bar featuring local craft beers.
Start your day with an invigorating hike at the nearby Mount Albert Wildlife Reserve. The fresh air and stunning views will awaken your senses as you explore the trails. Enjoy a packed lunch surrounded by nature.
Continue your exploration by visiting the St. Basile Wildlife Park to see local fauna in a natural setting. Engage in bird watching or simply enjoy the serene environment. Return to the city for a well-deserved afternoon coffee break.
Have dinner at a family-owned restaurant that serves homemade pastries and local dishes. Participate in a cultural event if available, exploring local music and dance. End your day with a stargazing session from a quiet spot in town.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $40-60 |
| 🏠One-bedroom apartment (city center) per month | $900-1,300 |
| 🚗Gasoline per liter | $1.40-1.70 |
| 🛜Internet monthly (Wi‑Fi etc.) | $50-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly communities and bilingual culture
- Access to outdoor activities and riverside scenery
- Compact, walkable downtown with historic charm
- Affordably priced compared to larger centers
- Limited nightlife and fewer large-scale attractions
- Public transportation is not as extensive as big cities
- Winter driving can be challenging; plan for weather disruptions
- Some services require travel to larger centers for specialized care
Places to Visit in Edmundston
Visit one of these nice places.
A striking downtown landmark with a Gothic-inspired façade and tranquil interiors that lend themselves to architectural photography.
Stepped walkways and river vistas provide ample opportunities for sunset and wide-angle river shots.
Colorful storefronts and period architecture create a charming backdrop for street photography.
Panoramic views of the valley and surrounding forests, ideal for landscape photography.
Food in Edmundston
Edmundston Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty, layered meat pie with potatoes and onions, slow-baked to mingle savory flavors.
Must-Try!
A comforting shepherd’s pie-style dish with ground beef, corn, and mashed potatoes.
A sweet, maple-forward pie that highlights New Brunswick maple products.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering local produce, maple products, breads, jams, and crafts; a great place to taste regional specialties.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Edmundston is bilingual; greet in the local language when possible and use courteous language. A handshake is common in formal settings.
Respect for Acadian and Indigenous heritage, ask before photographing people, and be mindful during community events.
Safety
Tipping in Edmundston
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a standard tip is 15-20% of the bill; rounding up for small services is appreciated. Taxis typically receive a 10-15% tip for good service.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is always welcome. Contactless payments are common in most shops and eateries.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with pleasant evenings; expect occasional rain showers. Perfect for outdoor dining, river walks, and hilltop viewpoints.
Vibrant foliage and cooler temperatures; great for hikes and scenic drives to enjoy maple colors.
Cold, snowy, and windy; winter sports and cozy indoor venues abound. Ensure winter tires and check road conditions.
Mild days with potential mud from thaw; gardens and markets reopen; wildlife activity increases.
Edmundston at Night
Hiking in Edmundston
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Network of trails with scenic overlooks and varied difficulty, suitable for day hikes and mountain biking in season.
Extensive park with multiple hiking options and diverse ecosystems within reachable distance.
Airports
How to reach Edmundston by plane.
Primary regional gateway with national and international connections; about a 2.5–3 hour drive from Edmundston.
Another major NB hub with regional connections; longer drive from Edmundston but viable for certain itineraries.
Smaller NB airport offering regional flights; accessible options for continuing to Edmundston by road.
Cross-border option for international connections; requires border crossing and ground transfer into Edmundston area.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A strong Francophone presence with Acadian cultural influence shaping daily life and local events.
Many residents speak both French and English, with services available in both languages.
Nearby Wolastoqiyik (Maliseet) and Mi'kmaq heritage is part of the regional history and culture.
Presence of educational institutions brings a youthful, family-friendly energy to the city.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Winter staple with local leagues and community rinks; a central part of the region’s culture.
Popular in the snowy months with access to groomed trails and forest areas.
Active youth and community leagues with local gyms and outdoor fields.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Edmundston.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers will find a good range of veggie dishes and salads; many places can adapt meals and offer dairy-free options on request.