Moncton Trip Planner
Why Visit Moncton: Top Reasons & Highlights
Travelers are drawn to Moncton for its "heartwarming hospitality and charming downtown," as highlighted in reviews. Visitors delight in tidal bore adventures and strolls through Magnetic Hill Zoo. Trip planning with Pilot is a breeze, making your Moncton journey organized and delightful. Moncton is about 13 hours' drive from Boston.
Moncton travel photos
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What to do in Moncton
With so much to do and so much to see, use Pilot to make your plan to make the most of your trip.
Explore top things to do
- 🌊 Tidal Bore Park: See the natural phenomenon where the river flows backward! - 🏞️ Magnetic Hill: Experience the optical illusion where cars appear to roll uphill. - 🎨 Resurgo Place: Engage with Moncton's history and hands-on exhibits. - 🏝️ Parlee Beach: Relax on one of Canada's warmest saltwater beaches. - 🍺 Pump House Brewery: Enjoy local craft beers with lively atmosphere. Use Pilot to easily build an itinerary including all these spots!
Find the perfect neighborhood to stay in
- 🏘️ Downtown Moncton is lively with its restaurants and local shops. Visitors feel connected to the heart of the city. - 🌳 Riverview offers natural beauty and outdoor activities for a refreshing experience. - 🏞️ Dieppe is known for its friendly vibe and cultural attractions, perfect for leisurely exploration. - 🎭 The Magnetic Hill area features fun, family-friendly attractions and events year-round. Pilot helps you easily find places to stay and offers great deals on hotel bookings.
Discover the best food and drink
- 🍲 Try Acadian cuisine, with dishes like rich fricot, a hearty stew with chicken or seafood. - 🥘 Seafood chowder is a must, a creamy delight loaded with fresh local catch. - 🥖 Enjoy poutine râpée, a comforting mix of mashed and grated potatoes with salted pork filling. - 🦪 Catch Two Nine Three Whiskey and Wild Game is known for delicious local game and seafood dishes. - 🍽️ Les Brumes du Coude on Queen's has amazing French-inspired dishes, and the market's small eateries are local favorites. - 📅 Pilot can help plan a Moncton visit, ensuring you savor these local flavors and insider spots seamlessly.
In popular culture
🗺️ Moncton appeared in the film "Trailer Park Boys: Don't Legalize It," part of the popular Canadian series. 🎬 The TV show "The Republic of Doyle" had some scenes filmed in Moncton, capturing its vibrant streets. 🎥 Moncton's Magic Mountain water park was a backdrop in "Luna: Spirit of the Whale," a movie about a local Indigenous community and a lost orca whale. 📺 Frequent mentions of Moncton appear in social media, particularly when talking about local festivals or events, showcasing its lively atmosphere and community spirit.
Moncton at a glance
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What reviews say
- Locals are friendly and welcoming. - Great place for nature lovers; check out Fundy National Park. - Magnetic Hill is a unique and must-see attraction. - Try some local seafood; it's a highlight. - Reviews mention it can be quiet, not for those seeking nightlife. - Weather can be unpredictable; pack accordingly. - Museums and art centers worth exploring. - Public transport is limited, consider renting a car.
What reddit says
- Travelers find Magnetic Hill interesting but a bit touristy. - Locals suggest Fundy National Park for stunning hikes. - Many recommend trying local seafood; lobster rolls are a hit. - Some visitors mention Moncton as a central hub for exploring New Brunswick. - Dieppe Market is praised for local produce and crafts. - Downtown art murals are a fun, unexpected find. - Parking and navigation can be challenging during peak hours.
Travel tips and safety
- Moncton is known for its friendly vibe and bilingual culture. English and French are commonly spoken. - Often highlighted for its efficient public transit and walkable downtown area. - Dining is affordable; expect ~$15-25 CAD for a good meal. - No particularly strange laws, but be mindful of parking rules. - Local markets are a treat and offer authentic tastes of New Brunswick. Moncton is generally safe, but consult travel advisories for updated information as situations can change.
Getting around
- Public transit is efficient, with buses covering key areas. Fares are affordable. - Rideshare options like Uber and taxis are available but can be pricier than buses. - Downtown is walkable, with many attractions nearby. - Bike rentals offer a fun way to explore. - Pilot helps organize routes and walking paths at your convenience.
How much it costs to visit
- If you're on a budget, you can explore Vancouver for $80-$120 daily. Stay in hostels ($30-$50 per night). Plan $10 for breakfast, $15 for lunch, and $20 for dinner. Use public transport—$3 per trip or $10 for a day pass. Expect $10-$15 for entry to affordable attractions like parks or museums. - For mid-range, aim for $180-$250. Book a 3-star hotel ($100-$150 per night). Spend around $15-$20 for breakfast, $20-$25 for lunch, and $30-$40 for dinner. You can use taxis or rideshares—expect $15 per trip. Add $30-$50 for activities or entertainment. - If luxury's your style, budget $400 and up. Stay in a top hotel ($250 and up per night). Enjoy upscale dining—$30+ for breakfast, $40+ for lunch, $70+ for dinner. Luxury transport and exclusive activities may cost $100+ a day. Prices vary during different times of the year and during large events. Check Pilot to find current rates for hotels and activities.
What to do if you only have one day to visit
- 🌅 Start your day with breakfast at the Tide & Boar Gastropub, renowned for its farm-to-table dishes. - 🚶♂️ Stroll through Magnetic Hill to experience the illusion of your car rolling uphill. - 🎨 Explore the Resurgo Place Museum for interactive exhibits and local history. - 🍽️ Have lunch at Tony's Bistro & Patisserie, famous for its delicious pastries. - 🌳 Spend your afternoon in Centennial Park. Great for a leisurely walk or bike rental. - 🦐 Don't miss Hopewell Rocks nearby, for incredible views of the Bay of Fundy tides. - 🍷 Head back for dinner at Little Louis' Oyster Bar—amazing seafood and wine pairings. - 🎭 Wrap up with a show at the Capitol Theatre, a beautifully restored historic venue. Use Pilot to easily generate and map an itinerary like this for you for free in just a few clicks.
What to do if it rains
- 🌧️ Explore Resurgo Place, the city’s museum, with interactive exhibits on Moncton’s history. - 🍷 Try a local wine tasting at Magnetic Hill Winery for a cozy indoor experience. - 🎨 Visit the Galerie d’art Louise-et-Reuben-Cohen for beautiful contemporary local art. - 🎥 Catch a film at the historic Capitol Theatre for a charming old-world atmosphere. - 🏊♀️ Enjoy a swim or relax at the Université de Moncton’s indoor pool facilities. - 📚 Stop by the Moncton Public Library to unwind with a good book and a cup of coffee. - 🎭 Attend a performance or event at the Aberdeen Cultural Centre, a hub for local artists. - 🛍️ Browse local crafts and goods at the indoor market at Marche Moncton Market.
When to visit and how many days to spend
- Visit Moncton from June to September for mild weather: 20–25°C (68–77°F) - Avoid visiting from December to March due to harsh winters: -10 to -1°C (14–30°F) - Biome: temperate deciduous forest, characterized by mixed forests and coastal plains - Summers: warm and humid with occasional rain - Winters: snowy with possible ice storms - Coastal influences offer unpredictable weather shifts throughout the year - Fall foliage in October is stunning if you can brave the cooler temps
How to find events during your stay
- Check local events on Facebook pages like Moncton's Tourism (@CityofMoncton) for updates on festivals and concerts. - "Moncton Times & Transcript" online holds announcements on cultural events. Subscribe via saltwire.com. - Discover unique happenings at somersault event listing website: hubcity.events. - Explore the Moncton Reddit community at reddit.com/r/moncton for locals' tips and event reviews. - Follow @monctonbuzz on Instagram for timely lifestyle and event recommendations. - Stay updated with the city's official site for visitor info at moncton.ca. - Explore upcoming markets or celebrations via scriptaculous blog: heartofmoncton.ca.
Before your trip, read the history
Moncton's history is rich and grounded, perfect for travelers who love immersive trips. The city was founded in 1766 by Pennsylvania German settlers, and its name comes from Lt.-Col. Robert Monckton, an officer in the British army. Before European contact, the area was inhabited by the Mi'kmaq people, who had established villages in the region. Moncton began as an agricultural settlement, but its position by the Petitcodiac River made it a key point for shipbuilding and later, a transportation hub. It’s fascinating for history buffs to see how Moncton balanced its agricultural roots with industrial growth, especially through the 19th and 20th centuries. The economy saw a boost with the arrival of the Intercolonial Railway in 1871, making it a center for commerce and communication in the region.Culturally, Moncton has always embraced diversity. The city experienced a mix of Acadian, English, and Irish cultures over time, which can still be seen today. Politically, Moncton has switched allegiances over time, reflecting broader Canadian trends. While it was a Conservative stronghold, it opened up diversity in political representation over the years. Notable historical figures include Henry Emerson, who was pivotal in the development of the city's railway sector. Modern Moncton remains lively, with a strong focus on education and cultural preservation. It's a place where the past and the present meet, making it a delightful stop for travelers seeking authentic growth against the backdrop of Canadian history.
