10 Best Places to Visit in the Spring During Your Canada Holiday

Lake Louise at Banff National Park during the spring, when the mountains in its backdrop still have snowy peaks.

Posted by on 07 Jun 2023

Canada’s glistening, snowy mountain peaks, powdery white snow and the plethora of ski resorts take centre stage in winter. But come spring, the entire country transforms into something spectacular.

As the snow starts to melt, nature comes alive again. Animals come out of hibernation, flowers start to bloom and the waterfalls are most active. It’s one of the best times of the year to explore the most scenic places in Canada.

So, where do you go to see all these breathtaking sights? What is the best place to visit in Canada in the spring?

It’s hard to say—you can’t go wrong visiting any region of Canada in the spring. But to help you out, we’ve narrowed down your options. Here are the 10 best places to visit in the spring on your next Canadian holiday.

Vancouver, British Columbia

Vancouver is a popular place to visit in Canada among urban dwellers year-round because of its bustling energy. But in the spring, it becomes even more beautiful as the city is surrounded by gorgeous pink and white cherry blossoms blooming into life.

The cherry blossom trees that line the city were donated a century ago by Japan to honour the Japanese Canadian veterans who fought in World War I. Today, they’re a must-see in March in April in places like the VanDusen Botanical Garden and Queen Elizabeth Park.

The city even holds an annual Cherry Blossom Festival. Strolling and biking through the city’s parks to appreciate the cherry blossoms during the festival is one of the best ways to embrace spring in British Columbia.

Ottawa, Ontario

Ottawa is one of the best places to visit in the spring because of the hundreds of thousands of colourful tulips that bloom in the area each year. Commissioners Park even celebrates a Canadian Tulip Festival during the season to showcase the beautiful, whimsical flowers that bloom in the area. This festival alone is already a terrific reason to visit Ottawa in springtime.

The capital of Canada is also known for its many sugar shacks during the spring. Visit one of them to taste authentic, delicious Canadian maple syrup and maple-glazed treats. It’s a must if you’re travelling with children!

Banff National Park, Alberta

Banff is another of the most popular destinations in Canada, especially in springtime. Lake Louise thaws and melts into its signature turquoise colour. The mountains and canyons in its backdrop—still capped with snow—make it look even more marvellous.

Waterfalls are always at their peak flow right after winter. Make sure to stop by Bow Falls when you’re in the park to see the magnificent waterfall in all its glory.

You may also see some wildlife when you visit Banff in the spring since many animals are waking up from hibernation. Some animals you should keep an eye out for include moose, elk, goats and even bears!

Annapolis Valley, Nova Scotia

Annapolis Valley on the eastern coast of Canada is known for its many vineyards and apple orchards. These places burst into life during the spring. The orchards boast of enchanting apple blossoms, while the vineyards welcome their harvest of grapes.

Visit this valley in Nova Scotia in the spring to see scenic vineyards, learn about winemaking and attend the yearly Apple Blossom Festival held in May.

Niagara Falls

When the icy, frozen bodies of water start to that in spring, it increases the flow in rivers and waterfalls. This makes them look even more majestic. So, it makes sense to visit the legendary Niagara Falls during the spring to see it at its most active.

Aside from the waterfall, you’ll also love the lush spring foliage and colourful flowers at nearby parks. Places like Queen Victoria Park will show off picturesque flora and fauna during the season.

Yoho National Park, British Columbia

The most enchanting part about visiting Yoho National Park in the Canadian Rockies in the spring is how bright and vibrant Emerald Lake looks. This lake is known for its vivid turquoise hues, which look even more mesmerising against the backdrop of the lush springtime greenery in the surrounding mountains.

Another must-see in the park is the sublime Takakkaw Falls, one of the highest waterfalls in Canada at 380 metres high.

Quebec City

The charming cobblestone streets and the French influence of Quebec make it beautiful year-round. But the city is even more alluring in the springtime when there are lots of colourful flower boxes out on patios and lush greenery everywhere you look.

One of the best areas to visit in Quebec in the spring is the Joan of Arc Garden. This garden is home to North American and French flower gardens, making it a must-see for lovers of flora and fauna.

Tofino, British Columbia

Tofino is the closest Canada gets to a beach town in the country. During the springtime, it’s the perfect place for long walks on the beach and surfing the waves. It’s the perfect springtime destination for travellers who miss the beach.

Tofino beaches are unique. Unlike sunny beaches in tropical countries, they are surrounded by beautiful rainforests. If you’re lucky, you might also see migrating whales swimming in the waters!

St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador

St. John’s, the easternmost point of Canada, is home to Iceberg Alley. In the spring, icebergs from Greenland glaciers break off and float to the Atlantic, giving visitors of St. John’s a unique, exquisite view of the waters. The best place to see Iceberg Alley is from the historic Cape Spear Lighthouse.

Bronte Creek, Ontario

Bronte Creek Provincial Park is one of the best places to visit in the spring if your goal is to go to the most popular Maple Syrup Festival in the country. Every March, this park starts overflowing with fresh maple syrup, making it the perfect time to hold the festival.

During the celebration, hosts dress in 1800s costumes to talk about the history of maple syrup-making. Children will also love all the sweet treats at the event, as well as being able to play with lots of farm animals.

Don’t Miss the Best Places to Visit in the Spring

Springtime is beautiful pretty much everywhere in Canada. But if you want to see the most beautiful waterfalls, lakes and foliage, or have some fun at traditional maple festivals and sugar shacks, check out one of the places above. Any of these magnificent Canadian regions will give you a shot at experiencing the prettiest spring season of your life.

Ready to book your next springtime Canadian holiday? Check out all the places in Canada we can take you!

When experience matters
INDUSTRY ACCREDITED
AWARD WINNING
TRAVEL SUPPORT
50 YEARS EXPERIENCE
HANDPICKED SUPPLIERS
UNRIVALLED EXPERIENCES