Things To Do
in Gander
Gander, Newfoundland and Labrador sits inland along the Exploits River in central Newfoundland. It is renowned for its pivotal role in aviation history and as a welcoming crossroads for travelers. The town blends a durable sense of community with accessible nature, from river views to nearby wetlands.
With maritime weather shaping the seasons, Gander offers a distinctly warm Atlantic Canadian experience in a compact, easy-to-explore setting.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Gander and head to the Visitor Information Centre to pick up maps and insider tips from friendly locals. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along Memorial Drive to soak in the town’s aviation heritage and pebble-lined streets. Pop into a cozy café for a freshly brewed local blend and a signature beavertail pastry.
Grab a classic Newfoundland lunch at a downtown eatery and savor a steaming bowl of seafood chowder. Wander through local boutiques and artisanal shops to discover handcrafted souvenirs and maple syrup treats. Visit the Gander Heritage Museum to learn about the town’s founding during the early days of transatlantic flight.
Head to Gander Lake Path to watch the sunset as paddlers glide across golden waters. Dine at a cozy pub offering moose stew and traditional Newfoundland pickers. Wind down the night with a pint of craft ale brewed by local artisans while swapping stories with friendly locals.
Fuel up with a hearty breakfast at a local bakery before heading to the North Atlantic Aviation Museum. Explore vintage aircraft, interactive flight simulators, and stories of wartime heroics from the golden age of aviation. Chat with volunteer guides who often share personal tales of pilots who flew out of Gander’s strategic airbase.
Enjoy a picnic lunch on the museum grounds amid the roar of returning propeller planes. Visit the control tower lookout for panoramic views of the runway and the surrounding forest. Dive into the museum’s archive room to browse original flight logs and nostalgic photographs.
Witness the runway lights come alive at dusk from the Airport Overlook observation deck. Savor a casual dinner in the terminal-building bistro while small jets and commercial airliners taxi by. Let the hum of engines under a starry sky lull you into the magic of Gander’s storied aviation past.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | CAD $12-18 |
| 🧺Grocery trip for a week | CAD $60-120 |
| 🚗Gasoline per liter | CAD $1.40-1.90 |
| 🏨One-night hotel | CAD $90-170 |
| ☕Coffee at a café | CAD $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm, friendly locals and a strong aviation history
- Gateway to outdoor adventures and nature
- Compact town with walkable neighborhoods and easy access to nearby sites
- Limited nightlife and dining options compared to bigger cities
- Remote location requiring longer travel times for some destinations
- Seasonal crowds can affect availability of certain services
Places to Visit in Gander
Visit one of these nice places.
Vantage point with sweeping views of the river valley, especially striking at sunrise or sunset.
Colorful storefronts and local murals that capture the town’s character and heritage.
Tranquil waters and soft morning light ideal for landscape photography.
Aircraft displays and aviation-era architecture provide great subject matter against an open sky.
Food in Gander
Gander Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Newfoundland dish combining salted cod and softened hard bread, often served with scrunchions (fried pork fat) for a filling meal.
Must-Try!
A traditional fried seafood appetizer reflecting the region’s coastal bounty, commonly found on menus in local pubs and fish shops.
A sweet preserve made from cloudberries, popular on toast or as a dessert accompaniment.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market featuring fresh seafood, produce, baked goods, and small local vendors—great for sampling regional treats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be courteous, greet locals, say please and thank you; casual conversation is common once you’re engaged.
locals value friendliness and modesty; avoid loud behavior in public spaces and queues.
Safety
Tipping in Gander
Ensure a smooth experience
In Canada, a tip of 15-20% at restaurants is customary if service is satisfactory; rounding up taxi fares is common.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is also convenient for some smaller retailers and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Milder temperatures with long daylight hours and occasional showers; pack a light rain layer and sun protection for outdoor time.
Cold, windy, and frequently snowy; layered clothing, sturdy footwear, and driving caution are essential.
Variable weather with melting snow and budding trails; be prepared for wet conditions and fluctuating temperatures.
Crisp days and colorful foliage; shorter daylight hours and cooler evenings—great for sunset photography and quiet walks.
Gander at Night
Hiking in Gander
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic, relatively easy hike along the river with opportunities for wildlife sightings.
Flat, accessible boardwalk through local wetlands ideal for birdwatching and photography.
Several trails within Terra Nova National Park offer forest and coastal views, typically a 1.5–2.5 hour drive from Gander.
Airports
How to reach Gander by plane.
Primary regional airport serving eastern Newfoundland with domestic connections and access to the town.
Major hub for longer-haul and connecting flights; typically reached via road from Gander.
Smaller regional airport in western Newfoundland offering regional connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A core community with deep ties to aviation history and local traditions.
A steady flow of travelers and seasonal staff supporting tourism and aviation activity.
Nearby communities contribute to the region’s cultural tapestry and history.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular winter sport with local leagues and community rinks.
Seasonal indoor sport enjoyed during the colder months.
Nearby river and lakes provide opportunities for freshwater fishing.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Gander.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many cafés offer vegetarian soups, salads, and baked goods; ask for daily vegetarian options and check for vegetarian-friendly seafood-free dishes.