Trans Canada Highway Road Trip: 50+ Places You Have to See

Planning a Trans-Canada Highway road trip? There’s no shortage of amazing things to see while driving across Canada with the family. From quirky roadside attractions to stunning national parks, the cross-Canada road trip must-see list is long — and we’ve gathered the best ones to make your road trip even better.

This list focuses on the Trans-Canada Highway, but we’ve also included a few quick scenic detours and hidden gems that are worth a little extra driving time. These are the places you won’t want to miss as you make your way from Ontario to British Columbia.

My family and I have visited ALL the places listed in the article on different cross-Canada road trips. Feel free to DM me on Instagram or join my private Facebook Group to ask any additional questions. 

1. Lee Park (North Bay, Ontario)

Lee Park is one of the best places to stretch your legs after a long drive into North Bay. Located near the waterfront, the park is home to the famous Gateway to the North sign — a must for a quick family photo. 

The park is spacious, with a large playground, picnic areas, and lots of open green space for kids to run around. If you’re travelling with younger kids, the playground has plenty of climbing structures and swings to burn off energy.

2. Big Nickel (Sudbury, Ontario)

Few roadside attractions are as iconic as Sudbury’s Big Nickel. Standing 9 metres tall, this giant replica of a 1951 Canadian nickel celebrates Sudbury’s history as a major mining town. It’s a fun and free stop, perfect for a quick family photo and a stretch during the drive to Sault Ste. Marie.

The Big Nickel sits right outside Dynamic Earth, a hands-on science museum all about mining and geology. If you have time, the museum is worth visiting — especially if your kids are curious about rocks, fossils, and how things work underground. Even if you’re just stopping for a quick look, the Big Nickel is one of those quirky, only-in-Canada spots that are fun to say you’ve seen.

💡 Pro-Tip: If you have a membership to a science centre in Canada or the USA, check if it includes free admission at the Dynamic Earth through the ASTC Travel Passport Program.

3. Miss Marie Sault Lock Tour (Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario)

The Miss Marie Sault Lock Tour is a fun way to experience Sault Ste. Marie from the water. The tour takes you through the historic Sault Ste. Marie Canal that was once the longest lock in the world when it opened in 1895. 

During the 90-minute tour, you’ll sail past the Canadian and American sides of the St. Marys River, getting a unique view of the twin cities (Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario and Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan).

Watching the lock system in action is fascinating for kids — they’ll see the water levels change right under the boat! 

Along the way, the captain shares stories about the area’s history, wildlife, and importance to shipping in the Great Lakes. It’s a nice mix of scenery, history, and engineering.

4. Chippewa Falls – Halfway Point of the Trans-Canada Highway (Ontario)

Chippewa Falls is more than just a scenic waterfall — it also marks the official halfway point of the Trans-Canada Highway, making it a perfect place to pause and celebrate how far you’ve come (or how far you have left!).

The falls themselves are easy to access, sitting right beside the highway with a convenient parking lot. You can even see the cascading water from your car if you’re short on time, but it’s worth stepping out. 

There’s a pedestrian bridge that gives you a great view of the falls and the rugged river flowing down to Lake Superior.

5. Wawa Goose – A Must-See Canadian Roadside Attraction (Ontario)

There’s no mistaking you’ve arrived in Wawa when you spot the Wawa Goose — a giant, 8.5-metre-tall statue of a Canada goose perched proudly on a hill near the entrance to town. It’s one of Canada’s most famous roadside attractions and a fun piece of road trip history.

The goose has been watching over travellers since 1960, welcoming anyone driving the Trans-Canada Highway. There’s plenty of space for parking, so you can get out and take a family photo under the giant bird. Inside the nearby Wawa Tourist Information Centre, you’ll find friendly staff, local maps, and tips for exploring the area.

6. White River – Home to the Beloved Winnie the Pooh Statue (Ontario)

For families travelling with young kids (or anyone who grew up loving Winnie the Pooh), a stop in White River is a must. This small town is the real birthplace of Winnie the Pooh — the actual bear cub that inspired A.A. Milne’s famous stories, which was bought here by a soldier heading off to World War I.

Today, White River proudly celebrates its connection to the world’s most famous bear with a Winnie the Pooh statue right along the highway. The statue stands in Winnie the Pooh Park, where you’ll also find interpretive signs that explain the story. 

There’s a small playground, picnic tables, and public washrooms.

If you’re a fan of Winnie the Pooh, stop in Winnipeg at the Assiniboine Park, where there’s an exhibit dedicated to Winnie. 

7. Pebble Beach – Marathon, Ontario

Pebble Beach in Marathon is a peaceful and scenic stop along the shores of Lake Superior. Instead of sand, this beach is covered with smooth, rounded stones that the powerful lake waves have polished. It’s a unique landscape, and kids love to search for the perfect skipping stones or create little rock towers.

The views from the beach are stunning — especially at sunset — with the wide horizon stretching across the world’s largest freshwater lake. There’s a short walking trail nearby if you want to explore a bit more.

8. Terrace Bay Lighthouse (Terrace Bay, Ontario)

Terrace Bay Lighthouse offers one of the best views on the North Shore of Lake Superior, especially if you time your visit for sunset. This replica lighthouse, standing at 50 feet tall, was built to honour the town’s maritime history and offers panoramic views of Lake Superior and the surrounding forest.

You can climb to the top for even better views, and there are interpretive signs that explain the local history. The area around the lighthouse is part of Simcoe Plaza, where you’ll find shops, cafés, and picnic areas.

9. Aguasabon Falls (Terrace Bay, Ontario)

Aguasabon Falls is an easy stop with a big reward — a beautiful waterfall tumbling down into a dramatic canyon. It’s just a 0.3-km walk from the parking lot to reach the viewing platform, making it a perfect mini hike for families with young kids. The trail is flat and well-maintained, so even toddlers can manage it.

The viewpoint gives you a great look at the falls plunging into the rocky gorge below, with Lake Superior sparkling in the distance. If you’re looking for a quick, scenic break that doesn’t take much effort, Aguasabon Falls fits the bill perfectly.

10. Rainbow Falls Provincial Park (Rossport, Ontario)

Rainbow Falls Provincial Park is a small but lovely spot along Lake Superior’s north shore. It’s best known for its short hiking trail that leads to the falls, passing through a forest and across a suspension bridge.

The hike is about 1.8 km return, so it’s manageable for families with kids who like to explore. Along the way, there are great views of the cascading falls and nearby Whitesand Lake. 

At the park office, you can ask for a Discovery Book, a fun activity guide that helps kids engage with nature along the trail.

11. Paddle-to-the-Sea Park (Nipigon, Ontario)

Paddle-to-the-Sea Park is a hidden gem for families travelling through Nipigon. The park brings the beloved children’s book Paddle-to-the-Sea to life, with a fun playground and interpretive features that follow the little wooden canoe’s journey from Nipigon to the Atlantic Ocean.

Kids can climb, explore, and follow the story through interactive play structures combining adventure and local history. It’s a perfect stop for burning off energy, especially after a long stretch in the car. 

This kids’ playground is unique because you can follow the story through different park sections across the town.

12. Amethyst Mine Panorama (near Thunder Bay, Ontario)

Located just outside (east of) Thunder Bay,  Amethyst Mine Panorama is Canada’s largest amethyst deposit, and you can actually dig for your own gems to take home.

The site offers guided tours that explain how amethyst forms and how miners collect it. Then, you’ll get to search for your own crystals — a hands-on activity that’s always a hit with kids. 

There’s also a gift shop with polished amethyst if you want to take home a shiny souvenir without getting your hands dirty…. But I highly recommend searching for your own ones. It’s a lot more fun!

13. Terry Fox Memorial Lookout (Thunder Bay, Ontario)

The Terry Fox Memorial Lookout isn’t just a scenic stop — it’s also one of the most meaningful. The memorial honours Terry Fox, a Canadian hero who ran across the country in his Marathon of Hope to raise money for cancer research.

The site offers sweeping views over Lake Superior, with a statue of Terry Fox set against the dramatic landscape. There are interpretive panels that explain his story. It’s a great opportunity to teach kids about perseverance, hope, and the power of one person to make a difference.

14. Fort William Historical Park (Thunder Bay, Ontario)

Fort William Historical Park brings history to life in a way that’s engaging for all ages. This living history site recreates the fur trade era, complete with costumed interpreters, historic buildings, and hands-on demonstrations. It’s a chance to step back in time and experience what life was like for voyageurs and Indigenous peoples in the 1800s.

We stopped at Fort Williman on all our road trips across Canada. It’s one of the kids’ favourite stops and I love all living museums. They are the best.

Kids can see how furs were traded or enter the different historic buildings (some of them have costumed interpreters in them… the hospital is a cool one to visit). 

Note that this stop could easily fill a half or even full day.

15. Kakabeka Falls – “Niagara of the North” (Thunder Bay, Ontario)

Kakabeka Falls is one of Ontario’s most impressive waterfalls, nicknamed “Niagara of the North.” Standing 40 metres high, it’s the second tallest waterfall in the province, and its easy access right off Highway 11/17.

The falls are part of Kakabeka Falls Provincial Park, which has accessible boardwalks leading to several viewing platforms. You’ll get great views of the rushing water from both sides of the gorge. 

The park also offers picnic areas and interpretive signs sharing stories about the Ojibwe legend connected to the falls. There is also a small beach and a kids’ playground.

16. Roy Wilson Suspension Bridge (Dryden, Ontario)

The Roy Wilson Suspension Bridge is a fun and unique spot to explore. This pedestrian bridge stretches across the Wabigoon River. 

It’s an easy walk to the bridge, and kids usually love the gentle bounce underfoot as they cross. There’s a small park nearby with picnic tables if you want to relax or have a snack. It’s not a long stop, but it’s one of those little local gems that make road trips more interesting.

It’s a bit tricky to get to the bridge. The best is the park at Johnston Park on Highway 17. From there, follow the Signature Trail past the “Pieces of Dryden” mosaic, descend the stairs, and turn left to reach the bridge. 

17. Husky the Muskie – A Giant Fish Statue (Kenora, Ontario)

No visit to Kenora is complete without seeing Husky the Muskie, a 12-metre-tall fish statue that’s become a quirky local icon. Located in McLeod Park, right by the Lake of the Woods, this oversized muskellunge celebrates the region’s rich fishing history.

Other than posing for pictures under the giant fish, the park itself is a nice place to stretch your legs.

18. Norman Park Beach (Kenora, Ontario)

Norman Park Beach is a family-friendly beach on the shores of Lake of the Woods. It’s a great place to cool off, with a sandy swimming area and a playground right next to the beach. There’s also lots of green space for picnics, and public washrooms make it an easy, comfortable stop. And a super cool water splash pad.

You can also visit the small Lake of the Woods Railroaders Museum. The museum is inside an old train caboose and it offers a fascinating look into the history of railroading in the region and throughout Canada.

19. Whiteshell Provincial Park (Manitoba)

Just across the Manitoba border, Whiteshell Provincial Park is a gem for outdoor lovers. This large park offers beautiful lakes, sandy beaches, and family-friendly hiking trails. It’s a great alternative to Kenora.

One of the most popular stops is Falcon Lake and West Hawk Lake, a lake formed by a meteor impact — a fun fact kids usually love. There are several beaches with picnic areas, plus hikes like the Top of the World Trail.

20. Centre of Canada Park (Manitoba)

Centre of Canada Park is exactly what it sounds like — the geographic centre of Canada, located along the Trans-Canada Highway just outside Winnipeg. It’s a quick, fun stop to grab a family photo at the sign that marks the spot.

There’s a small parking lot, picnic tables, and lots of open space if the kids need to stretch their legs. It’s one of those fun “we were here” moments that’s perfect for your road trip scrapbook.

21. Canadian Museum for Human Rights (Winnipeg, Manitoba)

In Winnipeg, the Canadian Museum for Human Rights is a must-visit. It’s the first museum in the world dedicated entirely to exploring human rights. The architecture itself is stunning, with a spiral tower offering panoramic city views.

Inside, the museum uses interactive exhibits, films, and personal stories to cover everything from Indigenous rights in Canada to global human rights struggles. Older kids and teens will get the most out of it, but younger children can still enjoy some hands-on displays (especially the interactive Inclusion Game on the second floor in the Canadian Journey).

22. Assiniboine Park & Zoo (Winnipeg, Manitoba)

For a more traditional family fun day, head to Assiniboine Park & Zoo. The park itself is massive, with gardens, walking trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas. Inside the park, Assiniboine Zoo is home to Journey to Churchill, one of the world’s best polar bear exhibits.

Kids can also visit the Nature Playground, with creative structures made from natural materials. Don’t miss the small Winnie the Pooh Museum, celebrating the famous bear’s connection to nearby White River.

This is a great place to spend half a day (or longer), especially if your kids love animals or need a break from sightseeing.

23. The Forks (Winnipeg, Manitoba)

The Forks is Winnipeg’s cultural heart. It’s located where the Red and Assiniboine Rivers meet. This historic site has been a gathering place for over 6,000 years, first for Indigenous peoples and later for fur traders and settlers.

Today, it’s a lively mix of markets, restaurants, green space, and river walks. The Forks Market is perfect for grabbing a snack, with everything from local treats to global eats. There’s often live music or events happening, and the outdoor play area keeps kids happy while parents enjoy the scenery.

24. Bell Barn (Indian Head, Saskatchewan)

Bell Barn is a historic stone barn built in 1882 as part of one of Canada’s first large-scale farms. Today, it’s a small museum, with interpretive displays about farming history in the Prairies.

The barn’s unique round shape makes it a fun photo spot.  It’s not a long stop, but it’s worth a visit if your family likes history or architecture. 

25. Royal Saskatchewan Museum (Regina, Saskatchewan)

In Regina, the Royal Saskatchewan Museum is a family favourite. It’s packed with dinosaur fossils, Indigenous history exhibits, and interactive science displays. 

One of the main attractions is Scotty, one of the largest and most complete T. rex skeletons ever found.

The museum also does a great job explaining Saskatchewan’s natural history, from its ancient seas to its modern grasslands. There are plenty of hands-on activities for kids, and the whole museum can be explored in about two hours.

26. Tunnels of Moose Jaw (Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan)

This is the only stop we haven’t personally visited, but it’s high on our list. 

The Tunnels of Moose Jaw bring history to life in a fun, theatrical way that kids and adults both enjoy. These underground tunnels were originally built for heating systems but became famous for their use during Prohibition and for Chinese immigrants seeking work and safety.

The tours are interactive, with costumed guides leading you through the tunnels while acting out the stories. There are two main tours: The Chicago Connection, which dives into the Al Capone-era bootlegging history, and Passage to Fortune, which tells the immigrant story. Both are entertaining and a great way to make history exciting for kids (recommended for ages 5+). 

Book ahead if possible — they’re popular!

27. Chaplin Lake Salt Flats (Chaplin, Saskatchewan)

Chaplin Lake is Canada’s second-largest saline lake, and its bright, white salt flats stretch along the highway like a blanket of snow — even in summer. We got confused the first time we drove across the country. 

There’s a small interpretive centre where you can learn about the area’s unique ecosystem and the migratory birds that rely on the lake.

28. Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park (Saskatchewan/Alberta border)

Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park straddles Saskatchewan and Alberta, and it’s a great place for a nature break. It’s famous for its unique landscape — this is the highest point of land between the Rockies and Labrador.

Some of the highlights of the interprovincial park are:

• Elkwater Lake
• Conglomerate Cliffs
• Fort Walsh National Historic Site
• Reesor Historic Ranch

29. World’s Largest Teepee (Medicine Hat, Alberta)

You can’t miss the World’s Largest Teepee when you pass through Medicine Hat. Standing at 20 stories tall, this massive steel structure was originally built for the 1988 Calgary Winter Olympics and later moved to Medicine Hat.

The teepee celebrates Indigenous culture, with painted panels telling stories of the local Blackfoot Nation. It’s a great photo stop, and there’s a small interpretive trail around the base. It’s a quick visit, but the size alone is worth the detour!

30. Dinosaur Provincial Park (Alberta)

Dinosaur Provincial Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it’s hands-down one of the best places to see real dinosaur fossils in Canada. The park’s landscape — a rugged stretch of Badlands — looks like something from another planet.

You can explore five easy trails, each showcasing the unique geology and fossil history. The park also offers fossil hunting tours, where kids can actually help uncover real dinosaur bones (these guided programs are highly recommended, so book ahead). There’s also a small visitor centre with hands-on exhibits.

If your kids love dinosaurs (or you do!), this is an absolute must-stop.

31. Calgary Tower (Calgary, Alberta)

A visit to the Calgary Tower will give you a 360-degree view of the city and the nearby Rocky Mountains. Kids will love the glass floor, which lets you look straight down to the streets below — not for the faint of heart!

The tower also has an interactive audio tour, perfect for older kids who want to learn about Calgary’s history and landmarks. 

32. Policeman’s Creek Boardwalk (Canmore, Alberta)

The Policeman’s Creek Boardwalk is a gentle, stroller-friendly walk right in the heart of Canmore. It’s about 3 km round trip, with wooden boardwalks winding through marshland, offering beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.

It’s an easy nature break that works for all ages, and the scenery is gorgeous no matter the season. Plus, since the trail starts right near downtown Canmore, you can grab a snack or coffee before or after your walk.

33. Johnston Canyon (Banff National Park, Alberta)

Johnston Canyon is one of Banff’s most popular hikes, and for good reason. The Lower Falls trail is only about 2.5 km return. 

If your family’s up for a longer adventure, you can continue to the Upper Falls, which adds another 2 km round trip. The path is well-maintained, and the waterfalls are stunning, especially if you visit early in the morning to beat the crowds. 

In winter, the falls freeze into ice sculptures, making it a magical (and very Canadian) experience.

34. Lake Louise (Banff National Park, Alberta)

Lake Louise is world-famous, and for a good reason — its turquoise waters, surrounded by towering peaks and glaciers, is a picture-perfect view. You can walk the lakeshore trail, rent a canoe (in summer), or just relax and soak in the scenery.

If you’re up for it, you can do the Lake Agnes teahouse hiking trail and treat yourself with their delicious chocolate cake.

For families, this is one of the easiest “wow” moments in the Rockies. If you visit in winter, the lake turns into a massive outdoor skating rink, adding to its year-round charm.

Note that during peak season, from mid-May to mid-October, you’ll need to pay CA$ 36.75 to park at the lake (if you’re lucky enough to get a parking spot). Otherwise, you’ll need to use the Parks Canada shuttle.

35. Moraine Lake (Banff National Park, Alberta)

If there’s one spot that could rival Lake Louise for sheer beauty, it’s Moraine Lake. Set in the Valley of the Ten Peaks, this glacier-fed lake glows a surreal deep blue — so vivid, it almost looks fake.

The Rockpile Trail is a short walk to the most famous viewpoint (where the iconic photo on the old $20 bill was taken). You can also walk along the Lakeshore Trail, an easy and flat walk.

Since the access road is closed to personal vehicles during peak season, you’ll need to take the Parks Canada shuttle, so plan ahead.

36. Yoho National Park (British Columbia)

Yoho National Park may not be as famous as Banff, but it’s just as spectacular — and often less crowded. You should make three key stops:

• Emerald Lake: This is one of the most beautiful lakes in the Rockies, with stunning turquoise water. There’s an easy lakeshore trail (great for strollers), and you can rent canoes in the summer.
• Natural Bridge: A quick roadside stop where you can see how the Kicking Horse River has carved a dramatic rock bridge. It’s a great science lesson in the making!
• Takakkaw Falls: One of Canada’s tallest waterfalls, plunging 373 metres. The access road has tight switchbacks (larger RVs might struggle), but the short trail to the falls is easy for kids and worth every step.

37. Glacier National Park (British Columbia)

Glacier National Park is famous for its rugged peaks, dense forests, and historic railway connections. You can stop at Rogers Pass Discovery Centre, where kids can learn about avalanches, wildlife, and the building of the railway.

There are several short hikes right off the highway. If you have time, try the Hemlock Grove Boardwalk, a short, stroller-friendly trail through a magical rainforest filled with ancient trees. In winter, the park is a hub for snowshoeing.

38. Mount Revelstoke National (British Columbia)

In Mount Revelstoke National Park, the Giant Cedars Boardwalk is a short but magical trail. This 500-metre wooden walkway winds through a grove of enormous cedar trees, some over 500 years old.

It’s easy enough for all ages and a perfect introduction to BC’s lush inland rainforest. Along the way, interpretive signs explain the ecology, so it’s both scenic and educational.

39. The Enchanted Forest (near Revelstoke, British Columbia)

The Enchanted Forest is a dream stop for young kids. This storybook-themed park is filled with fairy tale scenes, whimsical treehouses, and hand-carved figurines hidden in the woods.

There’s also a self-guided nature walk and rowboat rentals. It’s a little old-school, but kids absolutely love exploring the quirky scenes. It’s a perfect mix of nostalgia and adventure for families.

40. Three Valley Gap Ghost Town (near Revelstoke, British Columbia)

Three Valley Gap Ghost Town is a living history museum. You can wander through over 25 heritage buildings, all relocated from around BC.

There’s an old hotel, saloon, jailhouse, and even a railway roundhouse filled with historic train cars. Kids love the old-school jail and creaky wooden boardwalks. It’s a great place to learn about BC’s Gold Rush and railway history, with lots of fun photo ops.

41. D Dutchman Dairy (Sicamous, British Columbia)

This family-run dairy farm is famous for its homemade ice cream, made fresh on-site. And it’s delicious!

There’s a small kids’ playground — perfect if your kids need a break from the car. You can also go look at some of the animals they have.

It’s a quick stop right off the Trans-Canada Highway, but it’s one of those classic BC road trip moments. And the ice cream? Absolutely worth it.

42. Othello Tunnels (Hope, British Columbia)

The Othello Tunnels are part of the historic Kettle Valley Railway, built through solid rock along the Coquihalla River Gorge. Today, the old train route is a family-friendly trail through the dramatic tunnels, with views of the rushing river far below.

The walk is easy. It’s a  3.5 km out-and-back return flat trail. 

43. Alexandra Bridge (Near Spuzzum, British Columbia)

Alexandra Bridge is a hidden gem right off the Trans-Canada Highway in the Fraser Canyon, offering both history and stunning views. This historic suspension bridge, built in 1926, spans the Fraser River, and the short trail leading to it makes for a great family leg-stretching stop.

The trail is less than a kilometre and easy for kids to handle. Once you arrive at the bridge, you’ll get beautiful views of the river below, framed by rugged cliffs and towering forests. 

But be warned, you’ll have to cross a railroad track.

44. Bridal Veil Falls Provincial Park (British Columbia)

If your family loves chasing waterfalls, you’ll want to make time for Bridal Veil Falls. Located just outside Chilliwack, this park has a gorgeous 60-metre waterfall, cascading down over a wide rock face that gives it a “veil-like” appearance.

The trail to the falls is only about 15 minutes each way, which is perfect for younger kids. There’s picnic space at the trailhead..

45. District 1881 (Chilliwack, British Columbia)

District 1881 is Chilliwack’s historic downtown, beautifully restored into a vibrant pedestrian area packed with shops, cafés, and restaurants. It’s a great spot for families to stretch their legs, grab a snack, and experience a little local culture.

It feels like a little European town.

46. Stanley Park (Vancouver, British Columbia)

Stanley Park is Vancouver’s crown jewel — a massive urban park packed with beaches, playgrounds, forest trails, and one of the world’s best seawalls. You can rent bikes, visit the Vancouver Aquarium, or explore the totem poles at Brockton Point.

It’s the kind of place where you could easily spend a whole day — or just an hour or two soaking up the scenery.

47. Granville Island (Vancouver, British Columbia)

Granville Island blends local culture, food, and fun. Families love the Kids Market, with its indoor play area, toy shops, and quirky finds. The public market is perfect for lunch — lots of international food stalls and plenty of sweets.

Don’t miss the water park (summer only) and the Granville Island ferry rides across False Creek — kids always love them.

48. Gastown (Vancouver, British Columbia)

Gastown is Vancouver’s oldest neighbourhood, famous for its cobblestone streets and the Steam Clock — which chimes every 15 minutes. It’s a great spot to walk, grab a snack, and snap some photos.

The history blends nicely with cool shops and street performers, so there’s something for everyone.

49. Capilano Suspension Bridge & Lynn Canyon (North Vancouver, British Columbia)

Both bridges offer thrilling walks over deep forest canyons — but they’re very different:

• Capilano Suspension Bridge: This is the bigger, more touristy one, with an admission fee. There are also treetop walkways and a cliffwalk.
• Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge: This one’s free, and part of Lynn Canyon Park, with hiking trails and swimming holes.

Both are beautiful, so it depends if you want the full attraction experience (Capilano) or a quieter nature stop (Lynn Canyon).

P.S. If you make it to Lynn Canyon, make sure to bring your bathing suit and enjoy the natural pools (just follow the signs to the 30 Foot Pool trail. 

50. Downtown Victoria (Victoria, British Columbia)

Victoria’s downtown is small, walkable, and full of charm. You’ll love the Inner Harbour, where you can watch street performers or spot harbour seals near the docks. The BC Legislature and Empress Hotel are gorgeous landmarks, and many kid-friendly restaurants are nearby.

And don’t miss the CANADA sign for some family pictures.

51. Fisherman’s Wharf (Victoria, British Columbia)

Fisherman’s Wharf is a floating village of colourful houseboats, food kiosks, and kayak rentals. The kids love spotting the harbour seals that hang around the docks, hoping for a snack.

It’s a great place for casual seafood and a fun stroll.

Plus, there’s a nice kids’ playground nearby.

52. Mount Douglas (Victoria, British Columbia)

For incredible views over Victoria, drive or hike to the top of Mount Douglas. The short summit trail is family-friendly, and the 360-degree views include the city, ocean, and even the Olympic Mountains across the water.

53. Cadboro-Gyro Park (Victoria, British Columbia)

Cadboro-Gyro Park is a local favourite, with a beach, a creative playground, and the famous Cadborosaurus sea monster sculpture. It’s a perfect beach stop if the kids want to play in the sand.

54. Fisgard Lighthouse (Victoria, British Columbia)

Fisgard Lighthouse, Canada’s oldest west coast lighthouse, offers a short walk with beautiful views and a small interpretive centre inside. It’s a peaceful and educational stop to cap off your Vancouver Island adventure.

P.S. If you have the Parks’ Canada Discovery Pass, you’ll have free admission to the Fisgard Lighthouse National Historic Site.

Ready to Hit the Road?

A Trans-Canada Highway road trip is more than just driving from Point A to Point B — it’s about the memories you make along the way. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems you’d never find in a regular guidebook, these great stops on your trans-Canada road trip will turn long driving days into unforgettable adventures.

Whether you’re chasing waterfalls in Ontario, hunting for dinosaur fossils in Alberta, or exploring scenic coastal towns in British Columbia, there is something for every family.