Hub City Road Trip

The perfect combination of urban amenities at nature’s doorstep, Destination Moncton-Dieppe really is the hub of all things fun in the heart of the Maritimes. Just a hop, skip and a jump from the Fundy and Acadian coasts (two of New Brunswick’s most iconic locations, The Hopewell Rocks and Parlee Beach are about 30 minutes in either direction), the “hub city” is about as perfectly positioned as it gets.

Tailor this road trip to meet your ideal vacation style - whether it’s setting up home base in the city and taking day trips to the coast, or making it the jumping-off point for a road-tripping adventure. Either way, here’s how to make the most of your time in Moncton and Dieppe this fall.

If you're planning an overnight stay, we recommend booking your hotel and restaurants so you have plenty of time to explore before a night on the town. This city has a phenomenal culinary scene, with more than a few tastebud-bending options to finish your day - ranging from modern Acadian to international.

If you need some down time, grab your swimsuit and get ready to unwind. You’re headed to Usva Spa for an outdoor relaxation experience inspired by a Nordic ritual dating back more than 2000 years. Perched on a hill overlooking the city, you’ll get a view of Moncton sprawled out below as you settle into vacation mode.

The next morning, start your day with a fresh café mocha and a crêpe Bénédicte at the local gem that is Café Archibald. Stop at the Moncton Market downtown or the Dieppe Market to enjoy the flavours of the fall harvest. You will be sure to find all the fresh, healthy and tasty local products that make this season so great.

Then head off to your day’s jungle adventure: the Magnetic Hill Zoo. After all, if you’ve visited Moncton but didn’t come face-to-face with a full-size Amur Tiger, does it even count? This 40-acre park provides a friendly environment for visitors to connect with and learn about more than 70 indigenous and exotic species. Expertly cared for, the zoo’s residents are divided between four distinct areas: the Americas, Africa, Asia and Discovery.

While in the area, check out the famous Magnetic Hill, one of Canada’s most popular tourist attractions since the 1930s, and grab a treat or a souvenir at Magnetic Hill Wharf Village.

Stay for a while, but keep an eye on your watch as you won’t want to miss the natural phenomenon that is the Tidal Bore - where the incredible force of the Bay of Fundy tides pushes the Petitcodiac River backwards. Best viewed from Bore Park in downtown Moncton, it's right in the centre of the cities' trail system.

From there you can swing by Dieppe to explore the shops and catch live entertainment at Place 1604, or enjoy creative activities and exhibits at the Arts and Culture Centre. Then take a short drive to historic Doiron House. After your visit, head downstairs for a coffee break at Café Inclusio, where the staff thrives in an inclusive and welcoming space.

Next on your list is Resurgo Place, a local state-of-the-art facility that houses the Moncton Museum and the Transportation Discovery Centre. While you could probably spend the entire day learning and discovering through its multiple exhibits, be sure to head out just in time for your reservation at Atelier Tony. This upscale and downright decadent Dieppe eatery will never fail to treat you to a fabulous meal.

By then you might be ready for a quiet stroll through Magnetic Hill Winery. Savour delicious award-winning wines and discover the rich history of this unique estate, take in a breathtaking view of Moncton, and even stay the night at one of the finest bed & breakfasts around.

It’s one thing to grab a cup of joe, but it’s a whole other thing to take on the Epoch Tasting Experience. The Epoch Chemistry Coffee House is a unique spot located on St. George St. in Moncton. Be delighted with freshly roasted coffee and reconnect with your +1 over a heated—we recommend no more than 96 degree Celsius—game of chess.

Next up, you’re headed about 20 minutes outside of the city to Salisbury and the Green Pig Country Market. Beloved by locals and tourists alike, you’ll find freshly-grown vegetables and baked goods in a friendly community atmosphere. There you can also experience the NB Sunflower Festival in August (perfect photo op), and attempt to escape an epic corn maze between early September and Halloween.

Finish your Hub City experience with a short trip west of Salisbury to the Corn Hill Nursery. Have lunch at their Cedar Café, take a stroll through their impressive plant selection and be on the lookout for their informative workshops and seminars.
 

Road Trip Eats