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Map of Newfoundland — Best attractions, restaurants, and transportation info

What’s on this map.

We’ve made the ultimate tourist map of Newfoundland, Newfoundland and Labrador for travelers! Check out Newfoundland’s top things to do, attractions, restaurants, and major transportation hubs all in one interactive map.

Visiting Newfoundland? See our Newfoundland Trip Planner.

How to use the map

Use this interactive map to plan your trip before and while in Newfoundland. Learn about each place by clicking it on the map or read more in the article below. Here’s more ways to perfect your trip using our Newfoundland map:

• Explore the best restaurants, shopping, and things to do in Newfoundland by categories
• Get directions in Google Maps to each place
• Export all places to save to your Google Maps
• Plan your travels by turning on metro and bus lines
• Create a Wanderlog trip plan (link to create a trip plan for the city) that keep all the places on the map in your phone
• Print a physical map to bring it on your trip

Top 19 attractions in Newfoundland

Gros morne national park of canada, lighthouse picnics.

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Cape Spear Lighthouse National Historic Site

Track your travel spending and split costs with friends

Plan your trip. Keep your budget organized. Split the cost between tripmates. Wanderlog does it all.

Signal Hill National Historic Site

Twillingate, western brook pond, st. john's, bell island community museum, skerwink trail, cape st. mary's ecological reserve, n head trail, newfoundland insectarium, l'anse aux meadows national historic site.

Don’t forget to pack anything

Stay organized with a to-do list, packing list, shopping list, any kind of list.

Bowring Park

Puffin viewing site, rising tide theatre, cape bonavista lighthouse, top 10 restaurants in newfoundland, mallard cottage.

The Adelaide Oyster House

The duke of duckworth, the merchant tavern, terre restaurant, rocket bakery, newfoundland chocolate company, bannerman brewing co., transportation in newfoundland, highways and major roads.

• Trans-Canada Highway (Route 1)
• Viking Trail (Route 430)
• Labrador Coastal Drive (Route 510)
• Bonavista Peninsula Coastal Drive (Route 235)
• Irish Loop Drive (Route 10)
• Conception Bay Coastal Drive (Route 60)
• Avalon Peninsula Coastal Drive (Route 10)
• Exploits Valley Road (Route 350)
• Humber Valley Drive (Route 440)
• Burin Peninsula Highway (Route 210)

Top searches in Newfoundland

What's the weather like in newfoundland.

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Newfoundland for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Newfoundland in January
• Weather in Newfoundland in February
• Weather in Newfoundland in March
• Weather in Newfoundland in April
• Weather in Newfoundland in May
• Weather in Newfoundland in June
• Weather in Newfoundland in July
• Weather in Newfoundland in August
• Weather in Newfoundland in September
• Weather in Newfoundland in October
• Weather in Newfoundland in November
• Weather in Newfoundland in December

Explore nearby places

• Newfoundland
• Grand Falls Windsor
• Bishop's Falls
• Northern Arm
• Milltown-Head of Bay d'Espoir
• King's Point
• Saint Alban's
• Point Leamington
• Steady Brook
• Corner Brook
• Leading Tickles
• Cox's Cove
• Jackson's Arm
• Gros Morne National Park
• Norris Point
• Woody Point

All related maps of Newfoundland

• Map of Grand Falls Windsor
• Map of Bishop's Falls
• Map of Deer Lake
• Map of Reidville
• Map of Pasadena
• Map of Northern Arm
• Map of Springdale
• Map of Botwood
• Map of Norris Arm
• Map of Cormack
• Map of Milltown-Head of Bay d'Espoir
• Map of King's Point
• Map of Saint Alban's
• Map of Point Leamington
• Map of Steady Brook
• Map of Triton
• Map of Corner Brook
• Map of Leading Tickles
• Map of Lewisporte
• Map of Burlington
• Map of Francois
• Map of Cox's Cove
• Map of Jackson's Arm
• Map of Glenburnie
• Map of Gander
• Map of Baie Verte
• Map of Gros Morne National Park
• Map of Norris Point
• Map of Woody Point
• Map of Bonne Bay

Newfoundland throughout the year

• Newfoundland in January
• Newfoundland in February
• Newfoundland in March
• Newfoundland in April
• Newfoundland in May
• Newfoundland in June
• Newfoundland in July
• Newfoundland in August
• Newfoundland in September
• Newfoundland in October
• Newfoundland in November
• Newfoundland in December

• Itinerary + map in one view
• Live collaboration
• Auto-import hotels and reservations
• Optimize your route
• Offline access on mobile
• See time and distance between all your places

Traveller’s Guide: Sailing, Highways, and Weather in Newfoundland

Newfoundland, a gem of the North Atlantic in Newfoundland and Labrador province, is steeped in a rich tapestry of culture and history. Its unique geographic position, nestled at the eastern edge of Canada, makes it a breathtaking destination waiting to be explored.

Why Visit Newfoundland?

Natural beauty.

• Rugged coastline: Embrace the dramatic cliffs and serene bays that narrate tales of an ancient past.
• Iceberg Alley: Marvel at the ethereal beauty of icebergs that drift gracefully by.
• Gros Morne National Park: Discover a natural wonderland, from towering fjords to serene valleys, that has earned UNESCO World Heritage status.

Cultural Heritage

Newfoundland’s history is intertwined with the vast oceans that surround it. The region’s livelihood, predominantly centred around fishing, has sculpted a unique marine culture that’s evident in its traditions, stories, and daily life.

Unique Wildlife

Be it the iconic humpback whale breaching the waters or the colourful puffins perched on rocky shores, Newfoundland’s wildlife is a spectacle in itself.

Planning Your Visit to Newfoundland

Best time to visit.

The months from June to September offer the most favourable weather conditions, with the added bonus of numerous festivals and events celebrating the island’s culture.

Packing Essentials

Newfoundland’s weather can be unpredictable, so packing layers is crucial. Ensure you have:

🧥 Waterproof jackets and shoes

🌡️ Warm layers for cooler evenings

☀️ Sunscreen and a hat for sunnier days

Sailing to Newfoundland

Best ports of entry.

St. John’s: The vibrant capital city that’s a fusion of history and modernity.

Port aux Basques: An enchanting coastal town and a common entry point for many seafarers.

Experience of Sailing the North Atlantic

Brace yourself for an unmatched sailing experience as you navigate the vast, open waters of the North Atlantic. The blend of serene calms and roaring waves promises an adventure like no other.

Essential Tips for Sailors

• Iceberg Alert: Always stay updated on iceberg locations, especially when sailing through Iceberg Alley.
• Know the Currents: Familiarize yourself with the local currents, which can be particularly strong near bays and capes.
• Local Assistance: Don’t hesitate to reach out to local sailors or marinas for advice on navigating Newfoundland’s waters.

Newfoundland Highway Map: Key Routes

Trans-Canada Highway (Route 1) Spanning from the western ferry port of Port aux Basques to the eastern shores of St. John’s, the Trans-Canada Highway is Newfoundland’s main arterial road. Serving as a lifeline, it connects major towns, cities, and numerous attractions along its path.

Scenic Drives

Viking Trail: Delve into Newfoundland’s Norse history as you drive from Deer Lake to the northern tip at St. Anthony. Along the way, you’ll encounter the UNESCO World Heritage site of L’Anse aux Meadows, the first European settlement in the New World.

Irish Loop: Starting from St. John’s, this scenic drive takes you through picturesque coastal towns and historic sites, showcasing the island’s Irish heritage.

Safety Tips When Driving in Newfoundland

• Moose Alert: Newfoundland is home to a significant moose population. Drive cautiously, especially during dawn and dusk when they’re most active.
• Weather Watch: Sudden fog and snow can drastically reduce visibility. Keep an eye on weather forecasts and adjust your travel plans accordingly.
• Road Conditions: Some roads, especially in remote areas, can be gravel or unpaved. Ensure your vehicle is suitable for varying conditions.

Live Highway Cameras: Your On-the-Go Guide

Given Newfoundland’s unpredictable weather, live highway cameras offer travellers real-time visuals of road conditions, ensuring safer travels.

Accessing NL Highway Cameras

Most highway cameras are managed by the provincial government and can be accessed online. Simply search for “NL highway cameras” on your preferred search engine, and it should lead you to the official portal.

Key Spots for Cameras

Cameras are strategically placed at tricky intersections, notorious fog regions, and areas prone to ice accumulation. Ensure you check these feeds, especially when heading into less familiar terrain.

Newfoundland’s Weather: How to Stay Prepared

Characterized by a cold oceanic climate, Newfoundland experiences mild summers and chilly winters. Precipitation is frequent, and weather can change rapidly due to its location in the North Atlantic.

NL Weather Map

An invaluable tool, the NL weather map provides real-time weather conditions across the province. Accessible online, it aids travellers in making informed decisions about their journeys.

Weather Tips for Travelers

• Layer Up: Due to fluctuating temperatures, dressing in layers is advisable.
• Stay Informed: Regularly check the NL weather map, especially if planning long drives or sails.
• Marine Caution: When sailing, be wary of sudden fog banks and gusty winds that can arise.

Local Highlights: Gulf News Port aux Basques

Gulf News isn’t just another local newspaper; it is a testimony to the vibrant, ever-evolving story of Port aux Basques. Established years ago, the newspaper has been a reliable source of news for the residents, playing a pivotal role in informing, engaging, and entertaining the community.

From the fisherman’s catch of the day to significant governmental decisions affecting the region, Gulf News covers it all. It provides a balance of:

📰 Local news: Covering every significant event in the community.

✨ Features: Highlighting stories of local heroes, cultural events, and traditions.

🏆 Sports: Celebrating the achievements of local teams and athletes.

💬 Opinion: Giving a platform for residents to voice their views and concerns.

For many in Port aux Basques, their morning starts with a cup of coffee and a fresh copy of Gulf News. The newspaper is a reflection of the community’s pulse, encapsulating its highs and lows, joys and sorrows. It serves as a platform for dialogue, a tool for change, and, most importantly, a record of the community’s journey through time.

For the latest updates or notable stories, it would be best to refer directly to the Gulf News website or its recent publications. Newfoundland, with its blend of rugged landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, offers an unparalleled experience. But, like any adventure, being informed and prepared ensures you can fully immerse in what this magnificent island has to offer. Embrace Newfoundland’s charm, and carry home memories that will warm your heart for years to come.

Famous tourist attractions you can find in Newfoundland and Labrador

Newfoundland and Labrador is the eastern province of Canada. It was the 12th province which is confederated to Canada. The Newfoundland is the mainland area on which most of the population resides. It has inland water reserves as well as huge coastal lines which will allow the tourists to find spots for fun and adventure. […]

UBC Grads to End their Historic Hitchhiking Journey on a Budget of $150 in Newfoundland

Two young graduates from the University of B.C have come up with a special way of feasting Canada’s 150 years of Confederation. They plan to explore the country by hitchhiking on a budget of $150 each and will visit Newfoundland as a part of their journey.

Prime Minister Trudeau will Render Apology to Student Survivors of Newfoundland Residential Schools

Some form of relief is going to come to the survivors of Newfoundland residential schools later this year. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is set to apologize to the former students of Newfoundland and Labrador residential schools sometime in September. He will be traveling to Labrador for the apology though the exact dates are yet to […]

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The Best Things to Do in Newfoundland (+ Road Trip Itinerary)

A road trip itinerary with the most unforgettable things to do in newfoundland.

My husband and I first stepped foot in the eastern Atlantic Canadian provinces ten years ago on a family cruise. We had nothing but heavy rain and dense fog the entire trip, but since we hadn’t done much research beforehand we didn’t realize at the time how much we were missing. 

Don’t Miss These 20 Must-Know Tips Before You Go to Newfoundland

It was a good thing too because after we looked up the ports once we got home, we couldn’t believe what we saw. Colorful fishing villages. Sandy beaches. Vibrant cities. Historic lighthouses. Scenic drives.

It looked like an entirely different world than what we experienced so we’ve talked about going back ever since. When the announcement was made that the Canada border would be opening back up to Americans again, we figured it would be the perfect time to go. 

And so began a deep dive into planning a two-month Canadian road trip. 

Our original plan focused on The Maritimes – New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island – but we soon realized Newfoundland, Canada’s easternmost province is not much further. Only sitting a hop, skip, and a ferry ride away, we added the island to our itinerary.

Since we didn’t know anyone that personally visited before, we had no idea what to expect. The island surprised us in so many ways!

What we came across was a genuine kindness and distinct aura of local pride you won’t find in many places, incredible hiking trails, and raw beauty that begs to be explored. 

We can definitively say if Newfoundland isn’t on your travel bucket list, it should be!

When to Visit Newfoundland 

What is the best month to visit Newfoundland? The answer to that question depends on what magical experience you are chasing – floating icebergs, historical lighthouses, majestic whales, exciting festivals, or adorable puffins.

Because Newfoundland has it all and so much more!

Summer is by far the best time of year to visit Newfoundland and is also prime time for whale and puffin watching. 

In late June and July, the temperatures start warming up and flowers begin to bloom. July is the driest month and August is the hottest. 

We visited the last week in August and the first week in September. The weather was a variety of sunny days, clouds mixed with sun, and a few windy and rainy days but warm temperatures with highs around 71 degrees Fahrenheit  (21 degrees Celsius). 

On any given day, there’s a chance for a lighthouse or a moose sighting. But if you’d like to have icebergs floating in the background, plan your trip in the springtime in late May or early June. 

How to Get to Newfoundland 

Since it is an island, your only options to get to Newfoundland include a ferry or a plane ride. 

If you fly, you’ll most likely begin your trip in the capital of St. John’s located on the southeast side of the island. 

If you choose to drive, you have two options: a six to eight-hour sail to Port aux Basques or a fifteen-hour sail to Argentia.

If you are driving over the border from the United States another helpful article is All the Info You Need to Know to Cross the Border into Canada by Car.

Because of limited availability and planning our trip not too far in advance, we ended up taking the Port aux Basques ferry both ways.

If you are planning ahead of time, I suggest taking the Port aux Basques ferry in and Argentia out to avoid an entire day of driving. It takes roughly nine hours from port to port double backing through some areas. 

Two Week Newfoundland Road Trip Itinerary

Click here for an interactive Newfoundland road trip map.

How many days do you need in Newfoundland? The island of Newfoundland is the 16th largest island in the world.

For comparison, it’s a quarter larger than Ireland and roughly the same size as the state of Ohio. 

It takes a long time to drive from east to west and north to south.

Ideally, you should plan a week at a minimum, but two weeks not only gets you to all the highlights but allows you to enjoy them with a few hikes and tours here and there. 

Here is my suggested Newfoundland road trip itinerary. 

Newfoundland Itinerary 14 Days: Summary

• Port aux Basques, 1 night
• Corner Brook, 1 night
• Gros Morne National Park, 3 nights
• Kings Point, 1 night
• Twillingate, 2 nights
• Terra Nova National Park, 1 night
• Trinity, 1 night
• Conception Bay, 1 night
• St John’s, 3 nights

Looking to visit other places in Canada? Eastern Townships Region in Quebec

Disclaimer: Some of the links included in this post are affiliate links and will provide me with a commission at no additional cost to you.

Day 1: Port aux Basques

If you take the daytime ferry you’ll be arriving in Port aux Basques between 6:00 and 7:00 pm and will have to go through customs so for the first night we don’t recommend you drive too far.

So instead of rushing out and trying to beat twilight, once you debark, kick off your Newfoundland travel with a short yet spectacular sunset hike. 

Be aware one of the many unique things about Newfoundland is that it has its own time zone. Once you arrive on the mainland, you’ll be a half-hour ahead of Atlantic Canada.

What to See & Do: A delightful introduction to the island is the Grand Bay West Walking Trail . The easy hike starts out on a boardwalk overlooking the beach and a quiet bay then continues to multiple platforms overlooking the ocean.

There are wildflowers, swaying green grass, an old barn, sandy coves, and is the perfect spot to catch a sunset.

Where to Eat & Drink: After a long day, Seashore Restaurant with its friendly service, ocean view, and big portions is the right place for dinner. On the menu, you’ll find Newfoundland local dishes, seafood, and sandwiches. 

Where to Stay:  If you like your privacy, book at St. Christopher’s Hotel for a spacious and clean hotel room. 

For another fantastic experience, Hotel Port Aux Basques is a great option as well. 

Those looking for a free camping site, stay in the lot at Grand Bay West. It has two clean bathrooms that stay open all night and you won’t be bothered. 

Day 2: Corner Brook

Cruise the Trans-Canada Highway lined with evergreen trees and views for miles for roughly two and a half hours before detouring over to Cape Saint George. 

What to See & Do: The Boutte du Cap Park honors the French Acadian fishermen, Newfoundland’s first settlers, by baking bread in traditional wood fire bread ovens in a few places in the area including the park.

Try to get there between 12:00 pm and 2:00 pm to take advantage of the free freshly made rolls made by locals in the stone oven in the park.

The bread is so fluffy and light; it’s a real treat.

Note: The bread oven demonstrations are typically done in July and August, Monday – Saturday. 

Also at the park, you’ll walk along plunging cliff edges to admire what locals call The Boot, a craggy horn jutting out from the mainland.

Head north on 463 to finish the Port au Port Peninsula loop drive before stopping at Captain James Cook National Historic Site .

The site has amazing views of the city of Corner Brook and the Bay of Islands and you only have to walk a short distance for spectacular photo opportunities.

Complete the day with a hike on the OBIEC Bottle Cove Boardwalk Trail.  It was one of our favorite hikes in Newfoundland!

With every step, it just keeps getting better and better.

A relatively short hike that starts out on a flat boardwalk, and after a short climb and walk on a tree-covered path pops out to spectacular views where the cove meets the ocean. 

Where to Eat & Drink: After the historic site, take a break for lunch at the Saltbox and Everoutdoor Adventures overlooking Benoit’s Cove. 

Where to Stay: Right in the heart of the small downtown is Glynmill Inn , highly rated with a restaurant and pub. 

If you’re looking for something a bit more modern and free continental breakfast, the Hew & Draw Hotel is a great option. 

Days 3 – 5: Gros Morne National Park

Next up on your Newfoundland road trip is Gros Morne National Park which is not only a national park but a UNESCO World Heritage Site as well. 

The park is a magical experience and one of the most beautiful places in Newfoundland that should not be missed! 

What to See & Do: We have a few recommended hikes for every level of hiker. 

• Easy – Eastern Point Trail
• Easy – Tablelands Trail
• Easy – Berry Hill Pond
• Easy – Steve’s Trail
• Moderate – Green Gardens Trail
• Moderate – Lookout Trail
• Difficult – Gros Morne Mounain
• Difficult- Western Brook Pond

The Eastern Point Trail , found near the south end of the park near Trout River, is not on the park map for some reason but I read about it beforehand so I had it on our itinerary. 

And I’m so glad we did because it scales our top 10 Newfoundland hiking list along with Bottlecove as one of our favorite trails.

If you are an experienced hiker, I highly recommend the Gros Morne Mountain Trail, a roughly 10-mile (16 km) climb that will knock your socks off. But it is difficult and will take an entire day so if you are in good shape and willing to climb on rocky terrain 

Another popular hike (and the picture you probably have come across a hundred times when researching your trip) is the Western Brook Fjord hike. We did not hike this trail because you either have to book a super expensive guide or go through a bunch of red tape to prove you are experienced and reserve a permit weeks in advance. 

I suggest booking the Western Brook Pond boat tour instead. It still requires a hike (roughly 2 miles but on flat land) to the dock but then you’ll get to enjoy the magnificent views of the glacier-carved fjord while relaxing on a boat. 

Other do-not-miss easy hikes include the most unique part of Gros Morne, The Tablelands , where you can actually see part of the earth’s mantle. 

We knew we had to experience this unusual section because of its rare geology, but what we didn’t expect was for it to be barren yet beautiful.

Steve’s Trail is another fantastic short hike, which starts in a meadow and leads out to a beautiful beach.

It’s also a great cove for spotting seals. 

And last but not least, make sure to catch a sunset at Lobster Cove Head Lighthouse. It’s another one of the most beautiful places in Newfoundland. 

Where to Eat: A unique restaurant mixing Newfoundland culture in a diner setting in the Tablelands area is the Merchant Warehouse Retro Cafe & Wine Bar.

Even though local craft beer and fish and chips are the most popular items on the menu, there are also burgers, sandwiches, and specialty desserts to be enjoyed inside or out back on the patio with water views. 

Where to Stay: We van camped at Berry Hill Campground inside the park, but if you aren’t camping The Rooms at Woody Point are comfortable and well-rated. (Take a tour of our minivan-turned-campervan here and see all the essential camping items we recommend.)

If you like the cabin vibe, book one of Bambury’s Hillside Chalets ; they are in a great location for exploring Gros Morne National Park.

Day 6: King’s Point

You’ll be backtracking a little bit today through Deer Lake, but from there you’ll head north to the town of King’s Point, another charming small town. 

What to See & Do:  From Gros Morne, you can drive direct to King’s Point or you can take an hour detour a little north to Tilt Cove . 

With a population of four, the super tiny hamlet is the smallest town in Canada. 

Founded in 1813 for its gold and copper ores, it was also Newfoundland’s first mining town.

Today, the sleepy town has a few livable homes and remnants of its mining past. 

On the way, Foster’s Bawn Lookout Trail in La Scie is a worthy deviation. Located at the tip of Baie Verde Peninsula, it’s another prime spot for iceberg viewing and whale watching during peak season.

It’s a short walk to a wooden platform with views like below. 

Another option is to arrive early in King’s Point and hike the Alexander Murray Hiking Trail , a popular 5.3-mile hiking trail. 1,000 stairs lead hikers to a breathtaking lookout.

Alternative Option

One of the most unique things to do in Newfoundland is to see floating icebergs from the glaciers of western Greenland. 

If you are planning a trip from April through August, you may want to adjust your itinerary from King’s Point to add a night up north in St. Anthony or Hay Cove to see the frozen giants and visit the L’Anse aux Meadows National Historic Site, one of Newfoundland’s hidden gems.

The rugged coast is where Norse sailors first settled in North America – long before the famed Christopher Columbus. It’s the only authenticated Viking site on the continent and recently researchers figured out the exact timeframe – 1,000 years ago in 1021.

We struggled with whether or not to add L’Anse to our itinerary, but in the end, we chose not to add the extra driving time (it’s roughly 4 hours from Gros Morne National Park) since we visited in late summer and the icebergs had already disappeared. If you decide to add the additional stop and you need to keep your itinerary to 14 days, I suggest reducing one night in St. John’s. 

Where to Eat & Stay: A fantastic option for lodging and dinner is at By the Sea Inn & Cafe , located right on the water in the bay. Our waitress told us it’s not uncommon to see whales frolicking right outside your window. We weren’t so lucky, but there were multiple pictures hanging on the wall to back up her story!

We camped at King’s Point RV Park and although the campground itself is nothing to write home about the view is amazing and it is a cheap option. It was one of our favorite campsites of the trip. 

Day 7 & 8: Twillingate

A stunning coastline, a winery that serves up wine created with iceberg water, a historical lighthouse, and scenic country roads. 

Yes, Twillingate is worth an overnight!

What to See & Do: If you are visiting during the spring or early summer, Twillingate is a popular spot to take an iceberg and whale-watching boat tour. 

We visited in late summer and all the other tourists we talked to did not see whales on their guided tours so we decided to save our money and try later in the trip on the St. Lawrence River.

Do not miss the Long Point Lighthouse for breathtaking views of the rugged shore. 

Built in 1876 for the fishermen and coastal traders that navigated the rough waters of the Atlantic, the historic landmark is one of the most photographed locations on the northeast coast of Newfoundland. 

Next, hop over to the Auk Island Winery for a tasting. Not only are the names unique – like Fifty Shades of Bay, Moose Joose, Kiss My Arse, and 3 Sheets in the Wind – but the wines, made with local berries like partridgeberry and iceberg water, are as well. 

There are so many breathtakingly beautiful hikes in Newfoundland. We kept saying over and over, “we need more time!”

The French Beach Walking Trail, just east of the city, is another one. The coastline trail offers epic views of a few spectacular coves and if visiting in late summer, wild blueberries bloom ripe for picking at the base of the trail.  

Where to Eat & Drink: Annie’s Harbour Restaurant is a casual seafood restaurant right on the water. Popular with locals and visitors alike, I highly suggest making reservations.

If you like craft beer, you’ll find a cream ale, IPA, brown ale, and stout over at Split Rock Brewery. The cozy pub, right on the harbor, offers a menu with ham

Day 9: Terra Nova National Park

Did you know Newfoundland has two national parks? The second one on your itinerary is Terra Nova, also the most easterly national park in Canada.

What to See & Do: When you leave Twillingate, drive east to Pike’s Arm Lookout on New World Island. The short (but steep) trail is worth the detour and the steps. 

It’s mostly stairs versus a trail, but the climb is rewarding with 360-degree views including Notre Dame Bay and multiple small islands. At the top, you’ll find an outhouse and a platform with a large picnic table to sit at while you take it all in. 

Afterward, head to Mill Cove Trail inside the park. A quick stroll on a boardwalk through a patch of forest leads you to a moderate rock climb then a few stairs, to amazing views. Under a mile long, it’s another short and sweet hike with big payoffs.

Where to Eat: There are not many restaurants to choose from today, a few local popular ones you’ll come across are Gill’s Grill in Gambo, Rosie’s Restaurant & Bakery in Gander, and Country Style Coffee & Bakery in Glovertown. 

Where to Stay: There are not many lodging options near Terra Nova National Park so we camped at Newman Sound Campground, right in the heart of the park. The sites all have electricity, water, and showers. 

If you are not camping, consider Glovertown Ocean View Suites and Cottages or if you’re traveling with family Terra Nova Cabin . 

Day 10: Trinity

Before motoring to Trinity, there are a few interesting sites on the Bonavista Peninsula. 

What to See & Do: Start the morning at Tickle Cove Sea Arch , a magical bay of red sandstone and quartz. The relentless waves of the Atlantic Ocean eroded the rock from both sides creating the wonderful sea arch.

It’s just one of the significant geological sites in the peninsula that led to the UNESCO World Heritage Site designation. 

Over at the Cape Bonavista Lighthouse , take a tour and climb the 1843 historic structure. Also, spend some time walking the grounds to look for whales and puffins.

Afterward, swing through Dungeon Provincial Park . There you’ll see, The Dungeon, a large crater with two sea arches. It’s also quite the sight to see as horses and cows graze on the dramatic coastline.

Another must-do in the area is the Elliston Puffin Viewing Site to see the small sea parrots from land, one of the only places in North America to offer such a sight.

PRO TIP: You’ll be looking for all sorts of wildlife on your trip, so make sure to pack a good pair of binoculars like these! We bought them right before our trip and they worked out great. Lightweight, budget-friendly, easy to use, and comes with a carrying case. 

There are usually a few flapping around the colony at all times of the day but sunrise or sunset is the best time to visit. 

After checking in to your guesthouse, take a stroll through the quaint town of Trinity, which has been an active settlement since 1588.

Where to Eat & Drink: Another cool fact about Elliston is that it is considered the Root Cellar Capital of the World with hundreds of frost-free underground and hill vaults. You’ll see a few at the puffin viewing site but also at Nanny’s Root Cellar Kitchen .

It’s the perfect restaurant to try traditional Newfoundland food like cod tongue, fish and brewis, or the famous Jiggs dinner in a historic building. 

If it’s a Thursday through Sunday, stop in at Port Rexton Brewery to grab a pint, a gourmet grilled cheese, and poutine at the permanent food truck stationed at the outdoor patio. It’s a fantastic spot to sit and relax. 

If you’re ready for an extra special dining experience, make reservations at Twine Loft in Trinity. The restaurant offers a 3-course dinner by candlelight overlooking the water. 

Where to Stay: Book a private room with a bath at Eriksen Premises within walking distance of everything in town. 

Day 11: Avondale

In the morning, walk the noteworthy Skerwink Trail , a 5.3 km hike in the Trinity area. The trail was previously selected by Travel and Leisure Magazine as one of the top 35 walks in North America and Europe. 

I hate to disagree with this designation because the hike is outstanding. But one of the top 35 in ALL of North America and Europe? Not sure it lives up to all that hype but worth it? Absolutely.

The stunning experience includes a tranquil walk in an evergreen forest lined with blueberry bushes, impressive overlooks at Robinhood Bay, towering sea stacks, and wonderful views of the towns of Port Rexton and Trinity. 

What to See & Do: On the way to Conception Bay, you have to stop in Dildo. Yep, that’s right, there’s a town called Dildo in Newfoundland! 

Afterward, explore the historic small fishing villages of Cupids and Brigus . You can view artifacts from one of the oldest settlements in North America at the Cupids Legacy Centre then walk the narrow lanes of the neighboring town. 

Where to Stay: Don’t let the check-in at the small neighborhood bar throw you off at Gloria’s BnB. Attached to the other half of the building is a guesthouse with private rooms and bathrooms for a reasonable price. In the morning, expect muffins, coffee, and juice in the shared room on the main level. 

Days 12 – 14: St. John’s

You’ll finish your trip in St. John’s, the capital and largest city in Newfoundland. 

What to See & Do: There are a few things you must do while staying in St. John’s. Check out this 2-hour boat cruise that leaves from the heart of downtown to see whales, puffins, and more. Or maybe you are just interested in a downtown walking tour to learn all about St. John’s fascinating history and interesting architecture. 

Visit Cape Spear, the easternmost point in North America found at the tip of Newfoundland just 10 miles east of the city.

Constructed in 1836, the Cape Spear Lighthouse National Historic Site is the oldest surviving lighthouse in the province. 

Another unforgettable experience is hiking the North Head Trai l. It’s the oldest and supposedly the most popular trail on Signal Hill but we didn’t see many people while we were on it. 

Start at Fort Waldegrave up to Signal Hill (if you get there around noon you can see them shoot the cannon) then over to the fishing village of Quidi Vidi.

You won’t want to miss the quaint historic hamlet nestled in a tiny harbor surrounded by large rock outcrops. 

NOTE: There is a small parking lot as well if you’re not up for the challenge of the hike. 

A perfect location to rest your weary legs is the Quidi Vidi Brewing Company . Grab a table on the patio overlooking the bay and order a flight to try a few of their many delicious beers.

The fish & chip food truck serves up the best we had on the island. 

After proper hydration, finish your hike with an easy flat stroll along the Quidi Vidi Lake Trail back into St. John’s for a 5-mile loop.

Optional: If you’re visiting during whale season take a drive on the Irish Loop which starts just 20 miles south of St. John’s.

The scenic route winds around the southern region of the Avalon Peninsula. Add Witless Bay Ecological Reserve, Tors Cove, La Manche Provincial Park, Ferryland Lighthouse Mistaken Point and St. Vincent’s to your itinerary. 

Otherwise, I’d skip it to spend more time in and around the city. 

Where to Eat & Drink: Get screeched in at Christian’s Bar, check out the speakeasy-feel in the basement bar at YellowBelly Brewery, get stuffed at Get Stuffed, and eat at the vegetarian Peaceful Loft. 

Where to Stay: The historic Gower Manor B&B is perfectly located and has free parking and breakfast.

If you don enjoy B&B’s, the JAG Boutique Hotel is less than a 5 minutes walk from George Street with comfortable rooms appointed with a mini-fridge and Keurig coffee machine. 

The Argentia port is only an hour and a half from St. John’s so plan accordingly for your last day.

And that wraps up your two-week Newfoundland itinerary! I can’t wait for you to discover this enchanting place!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Newfoundland expensive to visit? Newfoundland is relatively expensive to visit. From an American’s perspective, most things in Canada including food, lodging, and drinks are a bit more expensive than at home. And Newfoundland is even more since it’s an island and more remote than some other provinces. But it is doable and there are ways to save like not eating out every meal and camping versus staying in hotels. 

What language do they speak in Newfoundland? English is the main language spoken in and around all of Newfoundland. Menus and signs are also written in English. 

What side of the road do they drive on in Newfoundland? Newfoundlanders follow the same rules of the road as Americans, driving on the right side.

Can you see the Northern Lights in Newfoundland? If you’re lucky you can see the northern lights on a clear night in Newfoundland but it is not one of the top places in Canada to see the aurora borealis.  

What is Newfoundland best known for? Newfoundland is best known for its colorful houses in St. John’s and its deep-rooted fishing heritage. 

Do you have any other favorite things to do in Newfoundland? We will definitely be back so please share in the comments below!

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Angela E. is a travel writer from the Chicagoland area who has visited all 50 states in the US and has traveled extensively around the world. She is passionate about exploring the great outdoors and hiking in particular. Her love for nature has taken her to some of the most beautiful locations on the planet. She has written extensively about her travels on her own website, Dang Travelers, and has been published in collaboration with other travel websites and multiple visitor bureaus around the country.

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15 Responses

Hello! I was happy to find this site as my husband and I are in the midst of planning a trip to NL this summer and our travel habits seem similar to yours. This will be our first visit to NL, and we’ll be traveling in a campervan with our dog and plan on sleeping every night in the van. Do you know if it’s essential to book campsites at the national and provincial parks in advance or if there tends to be day of availability? We’ll be traveling late July/early-mid August. The mention of the free campsite at Grand Bay West is really helpful, do you know of other similar free campsites throughout the island? Many thanks and happy travels!

Dang Travelers

Hi Lisa! I’m so excited for you, Newfoundland is such a magical place! Based on the time of year your visiting, I would probably book in advance. We saw a lot of campers and we visited in the beginning of shoulder season. I would at least definitely book Gros Morne in advance since it’s a busy park. I dont know of any other sites offhand, but we used the iOverlander app for free campsites.

Barb Macpherson

You need to make a significant correction – you fly into ST. JOHN’S. St. John (no “s”) is in New Brunswick and you’re in trouble if you book a flight to St. John if you want to be in Newfoundland!

Thanks Barb! I didn’t catch that before!!

I liked the article but feel you really should warn people about Wreck House.The day we came off the ferry we knew to stop at the Welcome Centre and check the winds at Wreck House. They were gusting at 50km to 80km and forcasted to go to 80km to 100km. As the wind here is always a cross wind, anyone traveling by motorcycle (me), or RV, or towing a trailer needs to be warned. That particular day one motorcylist was blown off the road and one transport was put on its side when the driver over corrected.

A beautiful visit but ckeck the winds before proceeding to Corner Brook.

Thanks so much Ben! We had no issues at all with wind so appreciate the info.

Great job Dang Travellers. Thanks for including Bay St. George in your itinerary.

What if we want to include a brief visit to Labrador? How to get to Newfoundland from Halifax?

There is a seasonal ferry. To get to Labrador from the island of Newfoundland, take the ferry that runs from St. Barbe on the island’s Great Northern Peninsula to Blanc Sablon, on Québec’s southernmost coast, right next to the border with Labrador.

Two of us are plannng to travel to NF in August. Reverse you trip somewhat and fly into St. John’s and fly out of Deer Lake (think that is the name?) and we’ll rent a car. Notice that you didn’t mention Fogo Island. No time for it or not to you liking?

We just didn’t have time. I’ve heard good things though!

Is this trip doable without camping? Could you wing it or would have to plan lodging far in advance?

It is doable without camping, but I’d definitely recommend reservations if you are traveling during the peak season of July and August.

Jasper Sloane Lennox

Did you rent a car for a 1 way trip from West to East ? Or did you loop back to point A?

We road tripped out there in our own car so we looped back. We tried taking two different ferries, but the one was already booked.

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Newfoundland & Labrador

They call Newfoundland 'the Rock', a fitting name, as this is an island of thoroughly elemental attractions and aesthetics. The muskeg and cliffs are barren and salt-drenched. The trees give off the smell of spruce like the air was spiced. The ocean roils, flecked with icebergs and spouting whales. The wind roars, and at any time, a storm may scream across the bights and coves.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Mistaken Point Ecological Reserve

Designated a World Heritage site in 2016, this ecological reserve protects 575-million-year-old multicelled marine fossils – the oldest in the world. The…

Torngat Mountains National Park

Named from the Inuktitut word torngait (place of spirits), this national park is the ancestral home of Inuit and their predecessors. Its spectacular…

Gros Morne National Park

A must-see for visitors to Newfoundland, this 1800-sq km coastal park and Unesco World Heritage Site features dramatic mountains, fjords, beaches, bogs…

Signal Hill National Historic Site

St John's

The city's most famous landmark is worth it for the glorious view alone, though there's much more to see. The tiny castle atop the hill is Cabot Tower,…

L'Anse aux Meadows National Historic Site

Leif Erikson and his Viking friends lived here circa 1000. Visitors can see the remains of their waterside settlement: eight wood-and-sod buildings, now…

New-Wes-Valley

This windy island, which seems to dangle somewhere between the Atlantic and the end of the world, is one of Newfoundland's oldest continuously inhabited…

French Shore Interpretation Centre

This tiny museum houses the French Shore Tapestry, one of the most stunning works of folk art in the province, if not all of Canada. This 66m-long…

Not many museums offer the chance to see a giant squid, hear avant-garde sound sculptures and peruse ancient weaponry all under one roof. But that's The…

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Planning a Trip in Newfoundland and Labrador

Maps of the Atlantic Provinces can fool you. Newfoundland (and sometimes Labrador) is commonly published as an inset map alongside Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and New Brunswick, making it look much smaller than those other provinces. That couldn't be farther from the truth. This is a big place, so significant time is required to travel from anywhere to anywhere else on Newfoundland island. Already big, distances get bigger when a landscape is twisted up and pulled like taffy like this one. Newfoundland just seems bigger, higher, longer, and more time-consuming when you're actually traveling in it than it looks on paper.

One quick example: The peninsula that extends northward along the west coast takes 8 to 9 hours to drive from Port aux Basques (where the ferry from Nova Scotia docks) to the tip at St. Anthony -- no Sunday drive, and one that requires planning and decision-making beforehand.

So you need to plan accordingly. A weekend in this province isn't even in the realm of possibility. A couple of weeks is enough for a bare-bones tour, though you'll still be frustrated by everything you missed. A month isn't really practical. So, you're left with one option: focus, focus, focus. Select one or two regions you really want to see, narrow down on those, and save the rest of the province for another time in life -- hey, you can dream, right?

For those arriving by ferry, here's one itinerary you might try: If you've got less than a week, come and go via Port aux Basques, and focus on wonderful Gros Morne National Park, especially if you're an outdoors-oriented traveler. If you've got at least 2 weeks, arrive on and leave from different ports, and make a quick circuit of the island.

For those arriving by air, St. John's is well situated for exploring the lovely Avalon Peninsula, and the intriguing Bonavista Peninsula also isn't too distant. But if you have your heart set on venturing to Gros Morne or beyond, think again. You'll need a few weeks for that -- and several days will largely be spent behind the wheel of your rental car. (It's about 7 to 8 hours driving from St. John's to the national park.) The best option, if you're dead-set on Gros Morne, is probably to fly into St. John's and depart via Deer Lake -- a more expensive option, but also one that gives you more time in the more spectacular places.

Weather & Time

The weather in Newfoundland could charitably be called "mercurial." You might experience all four seasons during a week-long summer vacation here -- from decently warm, sunny days (the average high temperature in summer is about 70°F/21°C) to downright frigid ones (it can dip to 40°F/4°C or lower on summer evenings). If you have rain gear and golf umbrellas, bring them; when the rain pairs up with high winds, the results are not fun. If you have thick sweaters, bring a few of those too. Shorts? Only for hiking or swimming in a hotel pool; you won't be wearing those much.

If you're specifically coming to see icebergs, late spring's thaw (mid-May to late June) is the peak season here, though every year is different.

Note that Newfoundland has its own special time zone. The "Newfoundland time zone" is a half-hour ahead of Atlantic time (which all the rest of the Atlantic provinces in this book use), and 1 1/2 hours ahead of Eastern Standard (New York) time. So when it's 9am in Manhattan, it's already 10:30am in St. John's (but only 10:00am in Halifax).

Visitor Information

Visitor information centers aren't as numerous or well organized in Newfoundland as they are in Nova Scotia, where every small community seemingly has a spot where you can stock up on truckloads of pretty color brochures. In Newfoundland, you're better off instead stocking up on maps and information in St. John's or just after you get off the ferry. That's as good as it's going to get. Note that tourist information centers on this island are open from mid-May through the first week of October; some close sooner than that.

The Newfoundland and Labrador Traveller's Guide and Map, published by the province's department of tourism, is hefty and helpful, with listings of all attractions and accommodations. Request a free copy before arriving by calling tel. 800/563-6353 , e-mailing [email protected] , or by regular mail (to Department of Tourism, Culture and Recreation, P.O. Box 8700, St. John's, NL A1B 4J6). The guide is also available on the ferries and at provincial information centers.

Newfoundland is also better wired than you might expect when it comes to the Internet, and many residents and businesses maintain websites -- a big help when trying to cobble together your travel plans.

Getting There

Many travelers arrive here by ferry -- particularly if they're doing a Nova Scotia/Newfoundland combination trip. Marine Atlantic (tel. 800/341-7981; www.marine-atlantic.ca) operates the two ferries to and from Newfoundland. Both depart from Sydney, on the northern tip of Nova Scotia's Cape Breton Island. The year-round ferry runs to Port aux Basques, with as many as four sailings each way daily during the peak summer season. The crossing takes about 5 hours; one-way fares are C$29 adults, plus C$82 for an automobile.

There's also a seasonal ferry (from mid-June through late September) that connects North Sydney with Argentia (on the southwest tip of the Avalon Peninsula, near St. John's). This crossing is offered three times per week, in summer only, and takes 14 to 15 hours. The one-way fare is C$81 adults, C$167 for regular-size vehicles; a bed on the boat costs from an additional C$29 (in a bunkroom) to C$153 (for a four-berth private cabin).

On both ferries, children 5 to 12 years old ride for half-price; there's a slight discount for seniors; and the ride's free for all children under 5 years old.

For all ferries, advance reservations -- a few weeks ahead at least -- are strongly advised during the peak travel season, especially if you want to sleep in a cabin during an overnight sailing. (If you didn't make a reservation, you can always pull up to the dock and wait in a line for available spaces to open up, but you could spend a half day or a day waiting.) The terminals on both ends all have snack bars, restrooms with showers, television lounges, and up-to-date facilities.

Air transportation to Newfoundland is typically through St. John's International Airport (airline code: YYT), although scheduled flights also arrive in Deer Lake, Gander, and St. Anthony.

Continental (tel. 800/231-0856; www.continental.com) flies into St. John's daily from Newark, while Air Canada (tel. 888/247-2262; www.aircanada.com) flies in daily from Toronto, Halifax, and Montréal. WestJet (tel. 888/937-8538; www.westjet.com) connects St. John's with Halifax, Toronto (Pearson International), Ottawa, Edmonton, and Calgary. And Porter Airlines (tel. 888/619-8622 or 416/619-8622; www.flyporter.com) now connects St. John's with Halifax, Ottawa, and Toronto's City Centre Airport.

Getting Around

To explore the countryside, you'll almost certainly need a rental car (bus service is sporadic). Major rental companies with fleets in St. John's include Avis, Budget, Dollar, Hertz, National, Thrifty, and Rent-A-Wreck .

For a concise look at your available options from St. John's airport, consult the airport's website at www.stjohnsairport.com . Click first on "What An Airport Can Do for You" (no, I don't get it, either), then on "Parking, Car Rentals & Taxis" to pull up a full list of the current airport rental kiosks, plus their local and national phone numbers. Many of these car-rental chains, as well as some independent outfits, also rent cars in smaller communities around the province such as Corner Brook, Deer Lake, Happy Valley-Goose Bay, and Port aux Basques. Consult the visitor's guide, or check rental chain websites directly, for details about renting in these smaller branch locations.

Remember to sock away some extra cash for gasoline when traveling on this island, however: The price of fuel on Newfoundland tends to be a bit higher than in other Atlantic Provinces, and the distances are greater.

If you're including Labrador in your itinerary, you'll probably use the M/V Apollo ferry (tel. 866/535-2567 from Newfoundland, or 709/535-0810), which connects St. Barbe, Newfoundland, with Blanc-Sablon, Labrador, 9 months out of the year through the scenic Strait of Belle Isle. The trip normally takes about 90 minutes, though it can take hours if (as happens in late spring) icebergs are jamming up the strait. The trip costs C$23 for regular-sized passenger car and driver, C$7.50 for additional adults, and C$6 for students. It departs one to three times per day. The only time it doesn't run is from mid-January through mid-April, though it also stops running anytime ice blocks the passage in winter. There's also a C$10 fee to reserve a spot in advance.

You can also travel around Newfoundland island by plane, though it's not cheap. Air Canada (tel. 888/247-2262; www.aircanada.com) connects St. John's with Deer Lake and Gander. Provincial Airlines (tel. 800/563-2800 from eastern Canada or 709/576-1666; www.provincialairlines.ca) flies from St. John's to St. Anthony, Deer Lake, Goose Bay, Wabush, and Stephenville on Newfoundland. Air Labrador (tel. 800/563-3042; www.airlabrador.com) flies between St. John's and Deer Lake.

RV There Yet? -- Newfoundland by RV? No, I haven't done it, but a lot of people do, and they report that it's a fine place to bring a rolling home. The island's single road, the Trans-Canada Highway, is in surprisingly good condition. So long as you remember to gas up and buy supplies now and then, it'll work; there are plenty of friendly campgrounds spaced out across the island with spaces and hookups for campers (many with Wi-Fi access), plus attractive coves, villages, and parks all along the route. There also seem to be a number of spots where you can park overnight for free (without services, obviously). One caution: If you are bringing the camper, don't plan to negotiate it around the streets of St. John's, which is historic, quaint, and a city . . . thus crammed with narrow streets and tight turns. Instead, camp in lovely Pippy Park a few miles northwest of town, then call a taxi, catch a ride with a friend, or deploy your "toad": RV-speak for the passenger car you've "towed' behind you.

Note : This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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The province of Newfoundland and Labrador only joined Canada in 1949, a controversial move supported by just 52.3 percent of the population at the time. Even now, parts of Newfoundland seem like an entirely different country. The island’s remarkable family of dialects, in essence an eclectic mix of old Irish and English, developed because the outports – ancient fishing settlements that were home to the first Europeans – could only be reached by boat. Today almost all are connected to the skein of side roads that plugs into the Trans-Canada Highway, but most of the interior remains an untouched wonderland of snow-capped mountains, fish-filled rivers and mesmerizing fjords.

Moose danger

Newfoundland time zones.

Newfoundland’s natural and historic charms are considerable, yet, astonishingly, the island rarely seems busy or crowded. Most visitors fly straight to St John’s , which provides the best introduction to island life, not least for its museums, enticing restaurants, bars and flourishing folk music scene. The city is also within easy striking distance of the whale-watching at Bay Bulls , the lighthouses of Cape Spear and the East Coast Trail , providing opportunities for everything from a short ramble to a full-scale expedition.

Newfoundland’s attractions don’t end on the Avalon Peninsula though. Tiny Trinity , on the Bonavista Peninsula, is perhaps the most beguiling of all the old outports, though Twillingate comes a close second and Fogo Island remains one of the most traditional. Gros Morne National Park , 700km west of St John’s, features wondrous mountains and glacier-gouged lakes, while another 350km north of the park, at L’Anse aux Meadows , lie the scant but evocative remains of an eleventh-century Norse colony, as well as a remarkable hotel in the old lighthouse on Quirpon island. The southern coast of Newfoundland chips in with the wild and windswept Burin Peninsula, which is a quick ferry ride from French-speaking St-Pierre et Miquelon , a tiny archipelago that is – as an imperial oddity – a département of France.

Labrador , though part of mainland Canada, has been tied to the island of Newfoundland since the 1760s, yet here too you’ll find a strong sense of identity, one that blends recent arrivals with ancient Inuit and Innu traditions. Iron ore mines and hydroelectric schemes drive the economy, but these industrial blemishes are mere pinpricks in the barely explored wilderness that defines this part of the province. Unimaginably vast, Labrador boasts some of Canada’s highest mountains, a jaw-dropping national park, a spectacular shoreline and a forested hinterland teeming with wildlife. A trip here is a true adventure.

A word about the moose : Newfoundland has thousands of them and they present a real danger to the motorist at dawn and dusk and to a lesser extent at night – so much so that many locals prefer not to drive at these times. The problem is that this large and powerful animal is drawn to vehicle headlights as if hypnotized and the results of a collision can be devastating for beast and human alike: on impact, cars typically knock the moose’s legs away, leaving the animal’s body to come barrelling through the windscreen.

All of Newfoundland, as well as the Labrador coastal communities south of Cartwright (from L’Anse au Claire, on the Québec border, to Norman Bay), is on Newfoundland Standard Time (3hr 30min behind GMT, and 1hr 30min ahead of Eastern Standard Time). Most of Labrador (Cartwright, Happy Valley-Goose Bay and Labrador West), as well as the Maritime Provinces, is on Atlantic Time , half-an-hour behind Newfoundland time. St-Pierre et Miquelon also has its own time zone – half-an-hour ahead of Newfoundland Time.

Discover more places in Canada

• The Avalon Peninsula
• The Bonavista Peninsula
• Central Newfoundland
• Gros Morne National Park
• The Humber Valley
• The Northern Peninsula
• St-Pierre et Miquelon

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updated 12.05.2021

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How to Plan a Newfoundland Road Trip Itinerary in 2023

By: Author Lora Pope

Posted on Published: March 28, 2023  - Last updated: July 16, 2023

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Planning a Newfoundland road trip? I grew up in Newfoundland and have driven across the province more times than I can even count! In this guide, I’m sharing everything you need to know about planning a road trip to Newfoundland.

If chasing icebergs, hiking coastal trails, and watching whales breach sounds up your alley, then you will love visiting Newfoundland.

Located on the easternmost tip of North America, Newfoundland isn’t the most accessible destination to reach in Canada, but it’s certainly one of the most rewarding.

While planning your Newfoundland itinerary, it’s important to remember that Newfoundland and Labrador is a BIG province.

Even though I grew up here and spent the better part of summer 2020 exploring the island, there are still places I haven’t seen. Not to mention Labrador!

Although we are one province, Newfoundland and Labrador are quite different. Going to Labrador is a whole adventure on its own (which I hope to write about someday).

If you want to travel around Newfoundland properly, it will take you at least three weeks. Unfortunately, most people don’t have that much time, so you’ll have to pick and choose where to go.

This travel guide highlights all the best places to visit in Newfoundland so that you can plan a fantastic road trip itinerary.

Book your car rental in Newfoundland ahead

If you aren’t taking your own vehicle for the road trip, make sure to rent a car in advance, as car rentals can get booked up early in the summertime (especially in Newfoundland).

BEST CANADA CAR RENTAL COMPANY: DISCOVER CARS

When booking your Canada car rental online, I recommend and use Discover Cars. They search both international and local Canadian companies, so you get the best price.

All the airports have car rental agencies inside them, so this is the easiest option if you’re flying into one of the provinces from the mainland or abroad.

To find the best prices on car rentals, search Discover Cars. They will search all the main car rental agencies (Enterprise, Hertz, etc). so you can easily compare rental prices.

Bucket List Newfoundland Experiences

Go whale-watching! This is one of my absolute favorite things to do in Newfoundland.

Over 22 species of whales live in the ocean surrounding the island, including an abundance of humpbacks that migrate here every summer. It’s one of the best places to go whale-watching in the world!

The best time to see them is during July and August when the Capelin are rolling onto shore.

Look out for puffins. Newfoundland is home to thousands of puffins that nest on the cliffs every summer. It’s one of the best places for puffin spotting in North America !

Elliston on the Bonavista Peninsula is one of the best places to see puffins.

Chase icebergs . Every spring, hundreds of icebergs make their way from Greenland, often getting stuck in the bays around Newfoundland.

Visit Iceberg Finder to see where they are this year. Trinity, Twillingate , and St. Anthony are popular spots for iceberg spotting.

The best time to see icebergs is in the spring from April-June (although sometimes they can last until July). Boat tours can take you up close, although icebergs can also be enjoyed from shore.

Go hiking along the coast . With over 29,000 km of coastlines to explore, Newfoundland is a paradise for hiking trails.

You can find trails throughout the province, but some of my favorites are the East Coast Trail in St. John’s, the Discovery Trail in Bonavista, and the hiking trails in Gros Morne , one of two national parks in Newfoundland.

Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sites . Newfoundland and Labrador is home to four UNESCO World Heritage Sites (pretty impressive, considering there are only 20 in Canada ).

These include Mistaken Point Ecological Reserve on the Irish Loop , L’anse Aux Meadows on the Northern Peninsula , Gros Morne National Park , and Red Bay in Labrador. They are all spectacular and deserve a spot on your Newfoundland vacation itinerary!

Enjoy the fantastic seafood . Maybe I’m biased, but I truly believe we have the best seafood in the world

Enjoy freshly caught cod, lobster, shrimp, and so much more. We also have some pretty talented chefs and notable restaurants here. In fact, three of Canada’s top 100 restaurants are in Newfoundland!

How to Get to Newfoundland

Planning a road trip to Newfoundland isn’t as easy as the rest of Canada because it’s an island only accessible by ferry or airplane. Most people don’t realize just how far away it is from the mainland!

Travel to Newfoundland by Ferry

The ferry from Sydney (in Cape Breton Island , Nova Scotia) takes about seven hours to reach Port Aux Basque on Newfoundland’s west coast.

There is also a longer ferry (16 hours+), which goes to Argentia on the East Coast. You can tour Newfoundland by car via these ferries or go on as a walk-on passenger.

Travel to Newfoundland by Plane

Newfoundland doesn’t have the best international connections. If you’re coming internationally, you’ll likely have to connect via Toronto or Montreal. From Toronto, it’s a 3-4 hour plane ride depending on the wind.

The fact that Newfoundland is out of the way often deters people from coming here, which is a shame. It’s a unique province unlike anywhere else in the country. There’s a reason everyone who comes here falls in love!

The best way to enjoy Newfoundland is by car. It makes an excellent addition to an East Coast Canada road trip if you want to see some of the other maritime provinces like Nova Scotia , Prince Edward Island, and New Brunswick.

If you’re short on time, the best option is to fly into St. John’s (east coast) or Deer Lake (west coast) and hire a rental car from there.

If you aren’t taking your vehicle for the road trip, there are multiple car rental agencies in Newfoundland to rent from. If you’re flying in, you can pick up a rental car at the St. John’s International Airport or the Deer Lake Lake airport.

Getting Around Newfoundland

Back in the day, there was a train that went across Newfoundland that went along the coast. It’s such a shame that it doesn’t exist anymore.

Now the train across Canada only goes from Vancouver to Halifax , and from there, you can drive/take a ferry to Newfoundland.

Having a car is pretty essential for traveling around Newfoundland. There is a DRL bus that goes across the island, but it doesn’t go down the peninsulas where all the best places are.

Best Places to Road Trip Newfoundland

The magic of Newfoundland lies in the peninsulas.

There’s one highway that goes across the province (TCH 1), and driving across Newfoundland without detouring off the highway might not leave you with the best impression.

Sure, there are some scenic parts of the drive, but the best places to go in Newfoundland are by the ocean off the highway.

While planning your Newfoundland vacation, here are some suggestions for the best places to visit on your trip across the island. Note that this is by no means an inclusive list!

Newfoundland is full of unique small towns to see, and you could spend years exploring them all.

Eastern Newfoundland

Newfoundland road trip map

Avalon Peninsula

The Avalon Peninsula is where over half of the population lives, and it’s jam-packed with fun activities.

St. John’s and surrounding area

St. John’s is the capital city of Newfoundland and where I grew up. It’s a charming city with lots to see and do.

If you’re flying into Newfoundland, you’ll most likely be landing here. It makes a great place to start or end your Newfoundland travel itinerary.

Spend a couple of days wandering around the colorful streets of downtown, enjoying the nightlife and dining at Canada’s best restaurants.

RECOMMENDED ST. JOHN’S HOTEL

One of the most beautiful places to stay in downtown St. John’s is Blue on Water. This 4-star accommodation features beautiful interior designs and is steps away from top attractions.

If you’re a come from away (aka not from Newfoundland), do a screech-in ceremony downtown on George Street to become an honorary Newfoundlander. It’s a fun time!

Even though it’s a city, it’s not hard to find nature while in St. John’s. The entire city is surrounded by a network of trails known as the East Coast Trail , a beautiful coastal 326 hiking trail broken into 26 paths that stretch across the Avalon Peninsula’s shores.

There are also many other hiking trails in and around St. John’s . Definitely check out Signal Hill National Historic Sites for the city’s best views.

From there is a trail you can take that goes through the Battery all the way to Quidi Vidi, a charming fishing village. Afterward, take a drive to Cape Spear lighthouse, the most easterly point in all of North America!

There are many smaller communities surrounding St. John’s, which make great day trips. If you’re a diver, one fun thing to do is join a dive with Ocean Quest Adventures around Bell Island, where you can dive with shipwrecks.

Discover more things to do in St Johns Newfoundland

The Irish Loop is a beautiful section of the Avalon Peninsula that you can drive as a day trip from St. John’s, or spend a couple of nights exploring.

It’s home to the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve, one of Newfoundland’s best places to see puffins and whales.

RECOMMENDED WHALE-WATCHING TOUR

Departing from Bay Bulls, this whale and puffin cruise will take you to marvel at marine wildlife through the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve.

The reserve is home to over 2.5 million seabirds and one of the largest populations of whales in the North Atlantic!

It’s also home to the UNESCO world heritage site Mistaken Point , where you can see 650 million-year-old fossils.

Argentia/Cape St. Mary’s Ecological Reserve

Following along the Trans Canada Highway 1, there are two more peninsulas you can explore on the Avalon Peninsula.

One is the turn-off for Argentia, where the ferry departs for Nova Scotia (this is the longer ferry). At the tip of the peninsula is Cape St. Mary’s Ecological Reserve , a paradise for bird watchers.

Bay de Verde Peninsula

On the other side of the Avalon Peninsula is the Bay de Verde peninsula, home to Newfoundland’s most famous town: Dildo. Yes, you read that right!

Made famous by Jimmy Kimmel, Dildo is quite a cute place to stay with some great restaurants and even a brewery. It’s a great addition to your Newfoundland driving itinerary.

RECOMMENDED DILDO HOTEL

Why not stay overnight in Dildo? The Dildo boathouse inn is a great choice, with stunning sea views from the rooms to soak in the spectacular sunsets.

Continue down this peninsula, and you’ll come across more charming small towns. At the tip is Grate’s Cove – I haven’t had a chance to explore it, yet but have heard great things.

Brigus and Cupids are two other small towns along this peninsula worth visiting. If you’re visiting in August, don’t miss the Brigus blueberry festival – it’s always a good time.

Burin Peninsula

I haven’t had a chance to explore this peninsula yet, but I really want to because at the bottom you can take a ferry that goes to France! Yes, you can even visit Europe while road-tripping through Newfoundland.

St. Pierre et Miquelon is a small island owned by France, which you can visit by heading down the Burin Peninsula and catching a ferry. This has been on my bucket list for so long!

Bonavista Peninsula

The Bonavista Peninsula is one of the most beautiful parts of Newfoundland. Full of adorable small towns, gorgeous hiking trails , epic whale watching, puffin spotting, and iceberg-chasing opportunities.

The two best towns to stay here are Trinity and Bonavista, about 40 minutes apart.

RECOMMENDED TRINITY HOTEL

The Eriksen Premises is one of Trinity’s historic homes and a great place to spend the night. Antique wood décor is featured in all individually decorated rooms, and it’s next to restaurants and shops.

Be sure to stop in Port Rexton in between the two towns and hike the Skerwink Trail, one of the most famous hiking trails here. Afterward, enjoy a cold brew at the Port Rexton Brewery.

Discover more things to do in Trinity

Central Newfoundland

I never knew how amazing Central Newfoundland was until I visited for a week during the summer of 2020.

For a long time, I just thought of it as a place to stop along the highway on your way across the province. But Central Newfoundland has so much to offer than that. Don’t miss this part of the province on your Newfoundland trip!

Terra Nova National Park

Terra Nova National Park is one of two national parks in Newfoundland! You’ll drive right through it on your road trip in Newfoundland if you’re taking the TCH-1 across the province, but it’s worth detouring here if you love the outdoors. Terra Nova is an excellent place for camping as well as hiking.

Eastport Peninsula

The Eastport Peninsula , also known as the road to the beaches (route 310), is a great side trip while on a road trip through Newfoundland.

It takes you down to one of the cutest communities and picturesque beaches in Newfoundland. Yes, we have white-sand beaches here! There’s also a great hiking trail network here called the Damnable trail.

Hare Bay – Route 320/330

On the other side of Bonavista Bay is Hare Bay, one of the best places to go whale watching in Newfoundland.

We did a four-hour excursion with Hare Bay Adventures , and it was incredible to see so much marine life. The whales were jumping everywhere, and there were thousands of birds overhead.

Nearby is the town of Dover, where you can see the Dover Fault site. This is where the North American and European continents collided 150 million years ago! They have an interpretation site set up, and there’s also a small plane wreck you can see.

Keep driving on route 320/330, and you’ll reach Lumsden, which I’ve been told also has wonderful beaches.

Gander isn’t the most naturally appealing place in Newfoundland, but it does have some interesting places to visit for those interested in history.

Gander played an important role in WWII, as well as on September 11th. Made famous by the play Come From Away! There’s also an international airport here.

Twillingate and Fogo Island

Twillingate and Fogo Islands are quickly becoming two of the most popular places to visit in Newfoundland.

Twillingate is a magical town known for its epic iceberg-watching opportunities, hiking trails, and gorgeous coastline.

RECOMMENDED TWILLINGATE HOTEL

With its seaside charm, Twillingate is the perfect place to spend a night or two on your road trip. I recommend the Salt Box Co. , so you can experience what it’s like to stay in a traditional saltbox house.

Fogo Island has seen a boom in tourism thanks to the Fogo Island Inn, attracting celebrities and artists worldwide.

Be sure to hike Brimstone head to visit one of the four corners of the flat earth, and join Al’s walking tour here to take you around the historic town of Tilting. Afterward, Stop in Bang Belly for lunch for a delicious lunch.

RECOMMENDED FOGO HOTEL

We all wish we could stay at the Fogo Inn, but it’s not in most people’s budget. Instead, stay at one of The Old Salt Box Co. locations and enjoy sunsets over the ocean from your room.

There are also the Change Islands , where the boat will stop on the way to Fogo Island. Although not nearly as popular, I’ve heard great things about these islands. There’s a Newfoundland Pony sanctuary there!

Grand-Falls Windsor

Grand Falls is another place right off the highway that most people use as a place to sleep, as it’s about halfway across the province. However, it does have some fun activities to offer. For example, it’s home to the Exploits River, where you can go river-rafting!

Fortune Harbour & Bay of Exploits

This is one of my favorite places in Central Newfoundland. The Bay of Exploits is hands down the best place for sea kayaking in Newfoundland .

Fortune Harbour is just a small community nearby but makes an excellent base to stay in if you are joining a day kayaking tour with Adventures Newfoundland.

Kings Point

Another great stop in Central Newfoundland right off the highway is King’s Point, near Springdale.

It’s not only a great place to go whale watching but also for hiking. It’s home to the Alexander Murray Hiking Trail, a gorgeous three-hour hike that brings you to one of the best viewpoints in Central.

Western Newfoundland

Western Newfoundland is incredible. It’s got a completely different landscape than the rest of the province, with gorgeous mountain ranges.

Following the TCH-1 from King’s Point, it’s about an hour and a half until you reach the town of Deer Lake.

There are hotels here if you need a place to spend the night, but it’s also the turn-off for Highway 430, which takes you to Gros Morne National Park and the Viking Trail. There’s also an airport in Deer Lake, so you can fly here from St. John’s if you’re short on time.

Gros Morne National Park

Gros Morne National Park is a must while road-tripping around Newfoundland. Just driving in Newfoundland through the national park is an activity in itself; the landscapes are stunning.

RECOMMENDED GROS MORNE HOTEL

Rocky Harbour is the most convenient place to stay in the park if you aren’t camping. I recommend Bambury’s Hillside Chalets, cute saltbox homes with a 9.5+ rating.

Be sure to check out the tablelands trails, where you can see what the inside of the earth’s mantle looks like. Gros Morne National Park was named a UNESCO world heritage site for its outstanding geological significance.

Gros Morne is full of stunning hiking trails , but one of the best to go on is Gros Morne Mountain.

This 800m ascent is no easy feat but takes you to one of the best views in the park overlooking the long-range mountains and surrounding ponds.

Another must-do activity in Gros Morne is a boat ride down Western Brook Pond through the fjords. I felt like I had been transported to Norway; it was breathtaking.

Great Northern Peninsula – Viking Trail

Route 430, known as the Viking trail , is one of the best road trips in Newfoundland.

It starts after turning off for Gros Morne from Deer Lake, taking you right through the park. However, it’s worth it to keep driving around Newfoundland to St. Anthony on the Northern tip.

There you can find L’anse Aux Meadows . This UNESCO world heritage site is one of the only Viking settlements outside Greenland.

At L’anse aux Medows, you can see a reconstructed Viking village and learn about this fascinating part of history in the Parks Canada interpretation center.

Most people stay in St. Anthony for a night or two here since it takes about four hours to drive from Deer Lake. St. Anthony is also one of the best places to see icebergs and whales in Newfoundland!

RECOMMENDED ST. ANTHONY HOTEL

Grenfell Heritage Hotel & Suites is a historic hotel in St. Anthony, centrally located in town. It offers fully equipped kitchens in the apartment rooms – we stayed here for a week and loved it!

Corner Brook and Humber Valley

Corner Brook is the second-largest city in Newfoundland, although only about 30,000 people live here. Nevertheless, it’s a great base to stay in if you’re exploring the west coast with many hotels to choose from.

RECOMMENDED CORNER BROOK HOTEL

If you’re staying overnight in Corner Brook, stay at the Hew & Draw hotel. This family-owned and operated, pet-friendly boutique hotel is thoughtfully curated with Newfoundland-inspired custom furnishings. Plus, they have a hot tub on the rooftop! It’s one of the best hotels in Newfoundland.

Corner Brook is home to Marble Mountain, one of the best places for winter sports in Newfoundland. In the summer, it’s got gorgeous hiking trails, especially around the Humber Valley area.

Codroy Valley

Codroy Valley is a hidden gem in Newfoundland . You’ll see the mountains in the distance driving towards Port Aux Basques, but it’s worth spending some time here. Sheltered by the long-range mountains, the weather is lovely here – and so is the hiking.

Port Aux Basques

Port Aux Basque is where you take the ferry to Nova Scotia. I haven’t spent much time here outside of that, but there are some places to stay overnight .

Another place that’s high on my Newfoundland list to check out is Burgeo, on the other side of the west part of the island. I’ve heard fantastic things about this area, although it’s more off-the-beaten-path.

Newfoundland Road Trip Itineraries

You could spend an entire summer exploring the best Newfoundland road trips and still not see it all (trust me, I’ve tried); I realize most people have limited vacation time.

If you only have a few days, I recommend sticking to one side of the island (East, Central, or West). Otherwise, you will spend all your time traveling. It takes about 12 hours to drive the province from East to West!

3 Week Newfoundland Itinerary

With three weeks, you could go on a fantastic road trip around Newfoundland, hitting many of the best places in Newfoundland:

• Day 1-3: Explore St. John’s, optional day trip around Irish Loop
• Day 3: Drive to Trinity (3 hours), optional stop in Dildo on way
• Day 4: Explore Bonavista Peninsula
• Day 5: Drive to Terra Nova National Park (1 hour), spend the night
• Day 6: Drive to Eastport Peninsula (1 hour), spend the night
• Day 7: Drive to Hare Bay (1 hour), spend the night
• Day 8: Drive to Twillingate (2 hours), optional stop in Gander
• Day 9: Explore Twillingate, take the ferry to Fogo Island that day
• Day 10: Explore Fogo Island
• Day 11: Take the ferry back from Fogo, drive to Fortune Harbour (3 1/2 hours)
• Day 12: Explore the Bay of Exploits
• Day 13: Drive to King’s Point (2 hours), optional stop in Grand-Falls Windsor
• Day 14: Drive to Gros Morne National Park (2 hours)
• Day 15-16: Explore Gros Morne National Park
• Day 17: Drive to St. Anthony (3-4 hours)
• Day 18: Explore St. Anthony/L’anse Aux Meadows
• Day 19: Drive back to Deer Lake or Corner Brook (4-5 hours)
• Day 20: Explore Corner Brook
• Day 21: Fly or take ferry back home

As you can see, even with three weeks, it’s tight to hit all the places I’ve mentioned in this post. Depending on how much time you have, you really need to pick and choose which areas you want to see the most here!

If you’re short on time, you can also fly between some cities in Newfoundland, such as St. John’s and Deer Lake. Although I do think touring Newfoundland by car is the best way to see the province.

2 week Newfoundland Itinerary (14 days)

With two weeks in Newfoundland, you can still see a lot of the province. I would still stick to two regions (east, central, or west) and make the most of your time there, spending a week in each.

Just combine two of the one week itineraries I’ve suggested above to make a 14 day Newfoundland itinerary.

Newfoundland itinerary 7 days (one week in Newfoundland)

With 7 days in Newfoundland, it’s best to dive deep into one region of the province otherwise, you’ll spend most of your time driving. Some people fly into St. John’s, spend a few days exploring the city , then head over to Gros Morne National Park for their remaining few days.

A week in St. John’s would give you plenty of time to explore the surrounding towns as day trips, as well as visit the Bonavista Peninsula.

Alternatively, you could spend the week exploring Central Newfoundlan d. We covered Eastport, Hare Bay, Twillingate, Fogo Island, Grand Falls, and the Bay of Exploits in one week. It was magical.

If you want to explore the Viking Trail , it’s best to fly into Deer Lake and stick to the island’s west coast. Spend the week in Corner Brook and drive along the Viking Trail towards St. Anthony, stopping in Gros Morne National Park along the way.

Best Time to Visit Newfoundland

The best time to Visit Newfoundland is during the summer months (July an August), as this is when you’ll get the nicest weather for hiking, and the whales are most plentiful.

However, if you want to see icebergs, springtime from May to June is the best time to visit, although sometimes they can last until July.

Fall is also a beautiful time in Newfoundland, and pleasant weather can last well until October. However, many tour operators will start shutting down in September, so this is something to consider.

If you love winter, Newfoundland can also be lovely for skiing and winter hiking . However, the weather is very unpredictable; so you’ll have to factor in travel delays to your plans.

Renting a car in Newfoundland

Car rentals are somewhat limited in Newfoundland, so I recommend booking ahead of your trip , as they often sell out in the busy summer season when most people are Newfoundland touring.

To find the best prices on car rentals, search Discover Cars.  They will search all the main car rental agencies (Enterprise, Hertz, etc.). so you can easily compare rental prices and find the best deal!

My favorite rental agency in Newfoundland is Enterprise, as they were fantastic to deal with when I had a car accident. The manager even came after working hours to help me sort everything out!

Don’t forget travel insurance!

Before heading out on any road trip, it’s essential to protect yourself with travel and medical insurance. You never know what can happen while you’re out on an adventure, and the last thing you want is expensive medical bills ruining your trip (because no, healthcare in Canada is not free for everyone).

As a digital nomad, I use SafetyWing travel insurance. For shorter trips, I recommend HeyMondo.

RECOMMENDED TRAVEL INSURANCE

Don’t forget to protect your trip with HeyMondo travel insurance. Get peace of mind with:

• 24/7 worldwide assistance (including covid)
• Extended Stays
• Cover for non-refundable expenses
• Heymondo assistance app

Newfoundland Tours | Trips to Newfoundland

A Newfoundland self-drive tour is the best way to explore Newfoundland. Unfortunately, there aren’t many guided trip options that tour the entire province, but here are some individual tours you can book while on a Newfoundland driving tour.

There are some bus tours that will take you around Newfoundland, but these are pretty expensive and generally geared toward an older crowd.

Lastly, there are some cruise ships that come to Newfoundland and small ship expeditions.

FAQ: Newfoundland road trip

How long does it take to drive around newfoundland.

It takes 12 hours to drive from St. John’s on the east coast to Port Aux Basques on the west coast. However, this is all along the main highway. If you’re detouring off the peninsulas (which you should), it’s going to take you much longer to drive around Newfoundland. This post has all the info you need.

How much time to visit Newfoundland?

Newfoundland is a big province and you could spend months exploring all the quaint towns and scenic drives in Newfoundland. To make the most of your time, you’ll want at least a week.

How big is Newfoundland?

Newfoundland covers an area of over 400,000 km², so it’s a big province and takes a long time to drive through. Here’s everything you need to know about planning a Newfoundland roadtrip itinerary.

Can you drive to Newfoundland?

Yes, but you have to put your car on a ferry from Nova Scotia, as Newfoundland is an island with no bridge there.

Have any questions about visiting Newfoundland or planning a road trip here? I know this was a lot of information, but there are just so many beautiful places to visit in Newfoundland.

Even if you only see one part of the province, you’ll still have an amazing time. Between the outdoor adventures and kind hospitality, Newfoundland is easily one of Canada’s most unique places to visit!

Visiting other parts of Canada? Don’t miss these posts!

• Where to Stay in Halifax
• Where to stay on the Cabot Trail
• The best things to do in Ontario in winter
• Top Toronto fall activities

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Lora is a full-time digital nomad on a quest to visit every country in the world and pet as many dogs as she can along the way. Over the last 15 years, she has traveled to 70+ countries and six continents solo. She currently calls Puerto Vallarta, Mexico home and enjoys ending each day with sunset and tacos on the beach.

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Lora—–my wife and i looking to spend 2-3 weeks in september and had a couple of questions 1. are the best fishing eating restaurant’s still open till sept.30th? 2. we are going to rent a vehicle, should we start at St. John’s or Deer Lake does it make any difference 3. our primary purpose is to sightsee and fish meals, as we have seen whales. Icebergs in our past. —plus any tips weather/car rental or must see’s much appreciated and Thanks—dave

hi Lora, it was nice reading your post. Planning a trip this August (as things are opening up now) I like to ask you which ones I should avoid if I do not want to hike (the strenuous and inclined ones) as I am not fit. I am taking this trip to do some photography (landscape, seascape, fishing villages and Puffins). Can you give me a hand in understanding your itinerary so that I can eliminate the ones that are not in my interest or fitness. Thanks.

Hi Reuben. While hiking is available in all of these places there are none that you really need to avoid as they also offer opportunities for photography and more leisure activities. Bonavista is a great place to take photos of puffins!

25 Unforgettable Things to Do in Newfoundland

• Canada / In the City / Outdoors

Visiting Newfoundland? Don’t miss these things to do.

Have you seen  Come From Away on Broadway ? Newfoundland and Labrador is the easternmost province of Canada, we didn’t know much about it until we watched the show in NY.

Though Newfoundland is filled with awe-inspiring landscapes, icebergs, and puffins, what truly makes them stand apart from any other place we visited is the people. Everyone was so friendly, warm, and welcoming, and even the visitors we encountered would not stop talking about the hospitality here. It was next level.

A big thank you to Legendary Coasts of Eastern Newfoundland for hosting our trip. All opinions are always our own. This post may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. Read our full disclosure  for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.

Last Updated: January 3, 2024

− − Content Menu

• 25 Best Things to Do in Newfoundland
• Map of Things to Do in Newfoundland
• More Things to Do in Newfoundland
• Best Places to Stay in Newfoundland
• Essential Tips for First Timers + What to Pack

Planning Checklist

More resources.

During our visit, we only got a chance to explore the Legendary Coasts of Eastern Newfoundland. There aren’t many places I want to revisit, but after a taste of Newfoundland, we know we have to go back.

1. Gros Morne National Park

Rocky Harbour, NL A0K 4N0, Canada,  map

Gros Morne National Park is known for beautiful fjords, towering mountains, sprawling beaches, forests, and cliffs. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and really deserves a guide of its own, but we’ll wait until we get a chance to visit ourselves. A few highlights you shouldn’t miss are:

• The Tablelands – a moon-like landscape with lots of hikes and views
• Western Brook Pond – take a cruise to see the cliffs from the water
• Lobster Cove Lighthouse – great whale watching and sunset spot

See More: Your Complete List of 400+ National Parks in the US

2. Cape Spear Lighthouse National Historic Site

Blackhead Road, Cape Spear, St. John’s, NL A1C 5H2, Canada,  map

This historic site is just South of St. John’s and has plenty of trails to explore and beautiful panoramic viewpoints. If you follow the trails down to the coast, you’ll also find the Easternmost Point of North America.

3. Signal Hill National Historic Site, St Johns

230 Signal Hill Rd, St. John’s, NL A1A 1B3, Canada,  map

This was the first stop we made after arriving in St. John’s. It was the perfect way to get a literal overview of the city. Signal Hill was once the site of the city’s oceanfront military defenses, but now there are hiking trails and a panoramic view of the city. You can also do a guided tour.

Pro Tip: If you climb Cabot Tower, you can get an even higher view. 

4. Quidi Vidi Village, St Johns

10 Maple View Rd, St. John’s, NL A1A 5W2, Canada,  map

This picturesque town lies along Quidi Vidi Lake. Walk the narrow streets or grab a drink at the Quidi Vidi Brewing Company. There are even trails that take you up on the hills to get a top down view.

Local Tip: Parking is very limited. We kept trying to find a ‘closer’ parking spot and wasted time driving around. Pull in to any spot you see and you can easily walk around the area.

5. Get Schreeched-In on George St, St John’s

George St, St. John’s, NL,  map

Newfoundland has a ceremony for come from aways (any non-Newfoundlanders) known as the “screech-in”. It usually involves a shot of screech (the local rum), a short recitation, and kissing a cod. George Street is full of bars and pubs where you can get screeched-in but be sure to check their schedules. Some require reservations and others don’t. Many bars only do them a certain time of day or week. 

Local Tip: We thought we could just drop in on one spontaneously, but that wasn’t the case. Since we were limited on time, we didn’t get a chance to get screeched-in. Try Trapper John’s or Christian’s Bar. If you miss it in St John’s, you can find plenty of places to get screeched, but it might require some planning ahead.

6. The Rooms

9 Bonaventure Ave, St. John’s, NL A1C 5P9, Canada,  map

Since we’re not huge museum people, we mainly wanted to visit for the views from the top of the building. The views did not disappoint, but we also ended up spending a couple of hours checking out all the exhibits. The Rooms art gallery and museum gives you more natural and cultural history of the area, and it has a few fun interactive areas too.

7. Jellybean Row, St Johns

1-245 Duckworth St, St. John’s, NL A1C 1G8, Canada,  map

The brightly colored homes in St John’s are better known as Jellybean Row. We initially thought it was just a specific set of houses, but it actually covers multiple streets, so you can wander around to find the area you love most.

Local Tip: Take a photography tour with Moe from  Far East Photography Tours  since he knows all the best spots. After visiting Jellybean Row, he also took us to other scenic spots only a local photographer would know.

8. Town of Dildo

Dildo, Newfoundland and Labrador, A0B 1P0,  map

Yes, Dildo. That’s the name of the town. It recently received a lot of attention after Jimmy Kimmel became an honorary mayor. He put up ‘hollywood-style’ Dildo sign on the hills that people stop by to take photos of. You can also stop by the popular Dildo Brewing & Museum, go whale watching or rent a dory boat to get a view from the water.

Local Tip: The  Dildo Boathouse Inn  was the perfect home base in Dildo. Dennis and Paula make you feel like home and the rooms are beautiful. It was our favorite place to stay during our trip.

9. Whale Watching with Sea of Whales Adventure

12 Ash’s Ln, Trinity, NL A0C 2S0, Canada,  map

This was hands down the best whale watching trip we’ve been on. We were over whale watching, but this trip made us understand why people go whale watching again.

Since we visited on the late end of whale watching season, we were initially reluctant to go. Plus, we’ve been on plenty of boat trips where it’s primarily waiting around for hours for an anti-climactic spotting of a whale fin.

These guys from Sea of Whales Adventure know what they’re doing. With 7 different launching points on the Bonavista Peninsula, they are able to launch closest to where whales have been last active. During our trip, we hung out with 2 curious humpback whales, saw a whale breach for the first time, and witnessed a crazy blue fin tuna feeding frenzy.

See More: 15 Best Places to Whale Watch in the US + When to Go

10. East Coast Trail

Cape Broyle, NL A0A 1P0, Canada,  map

Whether you want to do just a small portion of it or try to conquer the entire 336 km trail, the East Coast Trail is a great way to see Newfoundland. The developed trail comprises of 25 wilderness paths and interacts with over 30 communities.

Some of the highlights you can find on the trail are:

• The Spout (wave-driven geyser)
• 50-meter suspension bridge at La Manche
• Abandoned coastal settlements
• 30 historic communities
• Colony of Avalon archaeological dig at Ferryland
• 8 historic lighthouses
• 3 Ecological Reserves

Local Tip: Their website has a great feature where you can narrow down which paths you want to explore based on difficulty.

See More: 15 Best Day Hikes in the US to Put On Your Bucket List

Gander, Newfoundland and Labrador Canada,  map

This small town in northeastern Newfoundland that was made famous by the  Broadway musical  Come From Away . The story revolves around the planes that were rerouted here during 9/11 and how the community stepped up to welcome people from all over the world. Even for the most jaded New Yorker, it made you believe in humanity again.

Also, can you believe Gander International Airport also used to be the world’s busiest airport? Before the age of jets, planes would have to refuel here.

The North Atlantic Aviation Museum is also a popular stop to check out how Newfoundland contributed to WWII.

12. Skerwink Trail, Port Rexton

Port Rexton, NL A0C 2H0, Canada,  map

I know East Coast Trail is famous, but this was our favorite day hike during our trip. The 4.7 km loop takes you to beautiful viewpoints of rugged coast, panoramic views, and a chance to see whales. Maybe it was the whales, but the hike was epic!

13. Iceberg Alley

Twillingate, Newfoundland and Labrador Canada,  map

Newfoundland is one of the best places in the world to see icebergs. Every spring, icebergs of all shapes, sizes, and colors float by and bring in visitors to see them.

Iceberg Alley runs from the coast of Labrador to the southeast coast of Newfoundland (basically the entire coast is a prime spot for icebergs). Here are a few popular spots you can access by road:

• Battle Harbour
• Point Amour
• St. Anthony
• Twillingate
• Fogo Island
• Change Islands

Local Tip: IcebergFinder.com is the go-to resource to track icebergs each season.

14. Cape Bonavista Lighthouse, Bonavista

PW27+HV Bonavista, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada,  map

Bonavista Lighthouse is a candy cane colored lighthouse and was definitely worth the detour. It’s also one of two easy-to-see puffin colonies. All you have to do is head towards the back of the lighthouse and you’ll see them on a giant rock to the right just off the coast. There are also a bunch of trails following the coast around the lighthouse. 

Local Tip: These puffins are much farther though, so bring your longest telephoto lens ( this is the one we use) .

15. Town of Bonavista

Bonavista, Newfoundland and Labrador Canada,  map

We loved exploring the town of Bonavista! You can check out the shops, enjoy a beach boil-up, or rent bikes and go for a picnic. Some highlights from our trip:

• Beach Boil Up with Bonavista Adventure Tours
• Picnic Lunch with Bonavista Bicycle Picnics and Cafe
• Newfoundland Mockbeggar Plantation
• Ryan Premises National Historic Site
• East Coast Glow to pick up souvenirs for friends. Their soaps are made from foraged ingredients and iceberg water.

16. Dungeon Provincial Park, Bonavista

ROUTE 238, Bonavista, NL A0C 1B0, Canada,  map

If you’re in Bonavista, stop by the Dungeon Provincial Par to check out a large collapsed sea cave with a natural archway. Also, be sure to explore the surrounding area. We almost missed amazing photo ops just a few minutes away from the sea cave.

Pro Tip: We went when they had the worst light (high noon), which made the Dungeon extremely challenging to shoot.

17. Terra Nova National Park

Trans-Canada Hwy Glovertown, Traytown, NL A0G 4K0, Canada,  map

This is Canada’s easternmost national park. Camp by the sea in Southwest Arm, play on the sandy beaches of Sandy Pond, or kayak as you look for wildlife and icebergs.

The Visitor Centre is a great place to start to get all the info you need.

18. L’anse Aux Meadows National Historic Site, St Lunaire-Griquet

Division No. 9, Subd. D, NL A0K 2X0, Canada,  map

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the only authenticated Norse site in North America. There’s proof that Leif Erickson and other Norse explorers settled here. Learn more about the history and get a glimpse of how they lived.

Be sure to explore Norstead, a recreated Viking port of trade. You can learn to throw an axe, spin yard, or even take a pottery class. They also have a ship that you can explore.

19. Mistaken Point Ecological Reserve

NL-10, Portugal Cove South, NL A0A 4B0, Canada,  map

This is the newest UNESCO World Heritage Site and was designated because it’s one of the most significant fossil sites in the world. There are fossils of the oldest, large complex multicellular life-forms found anywhere on Earth, known as Ediacara biota. They can be found in other parts of the world, but the sheer number and variety found at Mistaken Point is significant.

20. Elliston Puffin SIte and Root Cellars

Maberly Rd, Elliston, NL A0C 1W0, Canada,  map

Elliston has the closest land views of puffins in North America. We arrived just before sunrise and had the whole place to ourselves along with thousands of puffins. There are also Root Cellars that you can explore on the way to the viewing site.

Local Tip: Sunrise is the best time to go to avoid crowds and we’re told that if you stay still enough, puffins sometimes land near you (we didn’t have any luck with it).

21. Klondike Trail to SPillar’s Cove, Elliston

1N0, Bonavista Bay Hwy, Elliston, NL A0C 1N0, Canada,  map

Head over to the Klondike Trail to see the beautiful landscape of Spillars Cove. It’s roughly 1.3m each way and there is a large chimney type rock structure jutting out of the ocean.

Local Tip: We didn’t know where the trail started and ended up driving most of the trail until we felt like the car couldn’t handle it any more. Turns out you don’t really have to hike if you don’t want.

22. Red Bay National Historic Site, Labrador

Red Bay, NL A0K 4K0, Canada,  map

This used to be a major whale port where the Basques made whale oil. It was actually the first large-scale whale oil production in the world. Today, you can explore the old whaling town and UNESCO World Heritage Site as you learn more about its history. Be sure to stop by the interpretation centre to see the type of boats they used to harpoon the giant beasts.

23. Cape St Mary’s Ecological Reserve

Saint Bride’s, NL A0B 2Z0, Canada,  map

This ecological reserve is home to the most accessible seabird colony in North America so it is popular amongst birders. You’ll find thousands of gulls, razorbills, black-legged kittiwakes, northern gannets, and cormorants. Beyond the birds, there are trails to explore along the dramatic coastline.

24. Captain James Cook Historic Site, Corner Brook

Mayfair Ave, Corner Brook, NL A2H 6M7, Canada,  map

Explore the town of Corner Brook and see the statue of the famous British explorer, Captain James Cook. The historic site also gives you a great view of the city and the Blomidon Mountains. While you’re in town, you can also check out the Stream Trail Network, Corner Brook Caves, and the Corner Brook Museum & Archives.

25. Fogo Island

Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada,  map

Head to Fogo Island to explore the largest offshore island of Newfoundland and Labrador. Many of the homes, stages, and stores have been unchanged for decades and Fogo has become a haven for artists from around the world. Check out the Great Auk Sculpture, Fogo Island, Tilting, and Brimstone Head Park.

Map of Things to DO in Newfoundland

More Things to DO in Newfoundland and Labrador

• Album Rock, Raleigh, Ship Cove
• Abandoned Moravian Mission of Hebron
• Arches Provincial Park, Portland Creek
• Battle Harbour – salt fish capital of Labrador and has centuries of history preserved
• Bell Island Community Mine Museum, Bell Island + also on Bell Island – Point Riche Lighthouse and Sacred Heart Grotto
• Beothuk Interpretation Centre Provincial Historic Site, Stoneville
• Blow Me Down Provincial Park, York Harbour
• Burin Peninsula
• Burnt Cape Ecological Reserve, Raleigh
• Cape Norman Lighthouse
• Cape Race Lighthouse
• Castle Hill National historic Site, Jerseyside
• Channel Head Lighthouse, Channel-Port aux Basques 
• Churchill Falls Generating Station
• Dildo Run Provincial Park
• Earhart Airfield, Harbour Grace – where Amelia Earhart became the first woman to fly solo across Atlantic
• Ferryland Lighthouse, Ferryland
• Greenspond Island, New-Wes-Valley
• Humber Valley
• J.T. Cheeseman Provincial Park, Cape Ray
• Lockston Path Provincial Park, Port Rexton
• Manuels River Hibernia Interpretation Centre, Conception Bay
• Marble Mountain
• Mount Caubvick – skiing
• Museum of the Flat Earth, Seldom
• Port au Choix National Historic Site and Point Riche Lighthouse. Also here: Museum of Whales and Things
• Quirpon Island
• Rising Tide Theatre, Trinity Bight
• Rose Blanche Lighthouse
• Salmonier Nature Park, Holyrood
• Sandbanks Provincial Park, Burgeo
• S.S. Kyle, Harbour Grace
• Torngat Mountains National Park, Northern Coast
• Trinity Loop, Charleston – abandoned amusement park
• Walled Landscape of Grates Cove, Grates Cove 

Essential TIps for Visiting Newfoundland

• Newfoundland & Labrador has its own time zone (90 minutes head of Eastern time).
• No one lives in Labrador. 94% of the province lives on Newfoundland, and 40% of those people are in St. John’s.
• Bring a  travel adapter  to make sure you keep all your devices charged.
• Dress in layers so you can adjust to the weather.
• A  weatherproof backpack  is great to keep all our gear protected in case it rains.  This one  is our favorite camera + laptop  backpack for travel .
• Saint Pierre and Miquelon is just off the coast of Newfoundland and is still under French control.
• Packable raincoats. We love our  Arc’teryx ones .
• If you’re looking to shoot wildlife, bring a long lens like this one  100-400mm . For general travel photos, we love the mid-range zoom lens ( this is the one  we travel with most).

Best Places to Stay

• Get comprehensive insurance for your trip.
• Download these helpful language apps .
• Find a great deal on Newfoundland hotels .
• Arrange a rental car for your trip.
• Book a tour for your visit.
• Get airport lounge access .
• Buy a travel charger to keep your devices charged.
• Get a new backpack for your trip.
• Buy a Newfoundland travel guide .
• Pack the appropriate shoes for your trip.
• Don’t forget your in-flight essentials .
• Hikes of Eastern Newfoundland
• Newfoundland and Labrador Travel Reference Map
• Moon Newfoundland & Labrador
• Lonely Planet Canada

Any other places or things to do in Newfoundland that we’re missing?

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“Discovery consists not of seeking new lands but in seeing with new eyes ” – M. Proust

Esther + Jacob

Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city in depth every year and currently base themselves in Las Vegas.

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16 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in the Netherlands

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated May 11, 2023

The Netherlands is known everywhere as a land of windmills, canals, and tulips, and today's visitors certainly will find these among its many tourist attractions.

But along with the country's many breathtaking gardens and picturesque villages, those sightseeing here will also find the vibrant cities, like Amsterdam, filled with museums showcasing a rich heritage of artists (think Rembrandt and Van Gogh). Other places to visit include numerous medieval castles and cityscapes, along with a 13,800-acre national park, and a tide control system that's been named one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World .

Given the relatively small size of The Netherlands, all these attractions and fun things to do are within a relatively compact area, and the landscape is quite flat (the highest elevation is barely a thousand feet above sea level).

Consequently, it's extremely easy to do at least a little of your sightseeing the Dutch way: by bicycle. Many of the top travel destinations and major cities in the Netherlands actively encourage the use of pedal-power and provide free bikes to explore the sights. However you choose to see the Netherlands, you're guaranteed a great time in one of the friendliest and most liberal cultures in Europe.

Be sure to plan your travel itinerary with our list of the top tourist attractions in The Netherlands.

1. Jordaan and Amsterdam's Canals

2. keukenhof, lisse, 3. rijksmuseum, amsterdam, 4. historic binnenhof, the hague, 5. anne frank house, amsterdam, 6. oude haven, rotterdam, 7. van gogh museum, amsterdam, 8. the windmills of kinderdijk, 9. de hoge veluwe national park, otterlo, 10. cathedral square, utrecht, 11. the ijsselmeer (zuiderzee), enkhuizen, 12. delta works: zeeland's spectacular dikes, 13. historic valkenburg, 14. royal delft, delft, 15. de haar castle, 16. the netherlands open air museum, best time to visit the netherlands.

Highlight : Explore Amsterdam's canals and historic neighborhoods by boat and on foot

Canals are as important a part of Amsterdam's cityscape as they are to the city of Venice, and some of the most enduring memories for any visitor are the time spent exploring the city's wonderful waterways.

While many of Amsterdam's best tourist attractions can easily be accessed by boat tour or water taxi — including most of the major museums and art galleries — nothing beats strolling along the smaller, quieter streets that line the waterways.

Particularly charming is the Jordaan, a neighborhood built in the early 1600s to house workers and immigrants drawn here for the city's religious tolerance. Along with its small canal-side houses, look for the neighborhood's many "hofjes," the quaint inner courtyards hidden behind the buildings.

Another photo-worthy neighborhood is the Grachtengordel , with its many small bridges and quaint 17th-century homes. You'll be rewarded as you explore these 400-year-old streets with examples of beautiful architecture, small boutique shops, cafés, and gardens. Be sure to look out for the many houseboats moored along the canals.

Just a 10-minute stroll away is Dam Square, a must-visit when in Amsterdam. In addition to its numerous restaurants, cafés, and shops this vast public square is home to some of the city's most-visited tourist attractions. These include the spectacular Royal Palace (Koninklijk Palace); the attractive New Church (Nieuwe Kerk); and the country's most important war memorial, the National Memorial Statue .

Highlight : Europe's largest collection of tulips with miles of walking trails and hot houses

Think of the Netherlands, and you'll inevitably think of tulips, the country's most popular flower. And one of the most beautiful places to visit in the Netherlands showcases these and other spring bulbs in spectacular abundance. Given its handy location relative to Amsterdam — it's a 45-minute drive away, or just under an hour by public transit — it makes for a fun and easy day trip from the country's largest city.

Keukenhof, otherwise known as the "Garden of Europe," is located on the outskirts of the town of Lisse in what's widely considered the "bulb belt" of the Netherlands. The largest public garden in the world, it boasts more than 70 acres of what was once the former kitchen (or "keuken") garden of a large country estate, Keukenhof displays more than 700 varieties of tulips, which are at their height in April and May.

But thanks to its massive commercial hot houses, the display continues almost year-round. In these, you'll see endless rows of flowering tulips, along with thousands of hyacinths, crocuses, and daffodils.

Address: Stationsweg 166A, 2161 AM Lisse, Netherlands

Highlight : A vast collection of famous artworks by artists including Rembrandt and Van Gogh

The spectacular Rijksmuseum , aka the National Museum, in Amsterdam's Museumplein (Museum Square) has been collecting rare art and antiquities since 1809. Not surprisingly, its extensive collection today amounts to nearly seven million works of art, including 5,000 paintings in more than 250 rooms, as well as a vast library with some 35,000 books.

Apart from its unique collection of old masters, this spectacular museum offers an exhaustive account of the development of art and culture in The Netherlands and is especially rich in traditional Dutch handicrafts, medieval sculpture, and modern art. Be prepared to spend the best part of a day — or longer — exploring this museum's endless treasures.

If you've time to squeeze a little more Rembrandt into your Amsterdam travel itinerary, here's a must-visit for you: the Rembrandt House Museum , located in the city's historic Jewish Quarter. Many of his best-known works were painted during the 20 years the great artist spent here, with some still recognizable scenes from the neighborhood.

The house remains much as it would have been during Rembrandt's life (guided tours are available). You can enhance your experience by booking a stay close by at Luxury Suites Amsterdam , located just steps away from the museum and one of the best places to stay in Amsterdam for those who enjoy luxury accommodations.

Address: Museumstraat 1, 1071 XX Amsterdam, Netherlands

Highlights : Historic capital of the Netherlands with well-preserved architecture and parliament

Known the world over as the location of the International Court of Justice, The Hague (Den Haag) is also the political center of The Netherlands. It's here the country's government does their work, and where you'll find the home of the Dutch Royal Family in Noordeinde Palace.

The Hague also makes for an excellent travel destination for visitors wanting to get a taste of the country's rich history. Whether you're staying here for a few days or visiting as a day trip from Amsterdam , start your exploration in the city's historic Binnenhof district. Literally translated as the "Inner Court," the Binnenhof dates back as far as 1250 CE. It's the oldest part of the city and a delight to explore on foot.

Set around a central courtyard, the attractive older buildings here once housed the country's ruling classes and have been remarkably well-preserved. The crown jewel here is the Knights' Hall (Ridderzaal). Built in the 13th century, this imposing castle-like building with its twin towers is still in use for government events, including the opening of parliament every September. Highlights include the Gothic hall with its stained-glass windows and wood-beamed ceiling.

Address: 2513 AA Den Haag, Netherlands

Highlight : Hiding place of Anne Frank where she wrote her famous diary during WWII

The Anne Frank House is a must-see when in Amsterdam. On Prinsengracht , in the home where Anne's family hid for much of WWII (they were Jewish refugees from Frankfurt), is where this remarkable girl wrote her famous diary. Although she died just two months before the war ended, her legacy lives on through her words, which have since been translated into 51 languages.

The back of the fully-restored house where the Frank family had their hiding place has been kept in its original state as much as possible and is a poignant monument to a tragic slice of world history and a brave young woman who continues to inspire people around the globe.

A word of caution: tickets for this must-see attraction do sell out, so be sure to reserve yours online well ahead of time. And if you're visiting in warmer weather — spring and summer are widely considered some of the best times to visit Amsterdam — be sure to allow time to explore the surrounding area with its charming old canals on foot.

Address: Prinsengracht 263-267, Amsterdam, Netherlands

Highlights : Europe's largest port with a historic harbor area, vessels, and museums

Located an easy one-hour train ride from Amsterdam, the port city of Rotterdam is well worth visiting for its well-preserved Old Harbour, or Oude Haven. The city has a long and rich maritime history thanks largely to its location on the Nieuwe Maas, an arm of the Rhine River, and its proximity to the English Channel.

Part of Rotterdam's superb Maritime District, Oude Haven is ideal for those who enjoy seeing the sights on foot. The harbor is chock-full of old houseboats and sailing ships, many of them on display at the Maritime Museum Rotterdam .

In addition to the 20 or so historic vessels on display in the water, a variety of indoor displays can also be enjoyed, including a replica of a vessel dating back over 2,000 years.

Address: Leuvehaven 1, 3011 EA Rotterdam, Netherlands

Highlights : One of the world's top art museums focusing on the work of Vincent Van Gogh

As befits one of the world's greatest artists, the spectacular Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam is ranked an impressive #2 in a leading list of the top art museums globally, attracting almost 1.5 million visitors each year.

Home to the world's largest collection of Van Gogh paintings — many donated by the artist's family — this impressive gallery and museum was specially built to showcase the more than 200 paintings, 500 drawings, and 700 letters in its vast collection.

Works by his contemporaries are also on display. A highlight is participating in the museum's new "Meet Vincent Van Gogh Experience," which offers a fascinating, high-tech, interactive look at the artist's life and times, as well as his best-known work.

If the city's excellent museums are your priority, you may in fact want to consider visiting them off-season during the quieter, cooler times of year. Given that both these popular attractions are things to do indoors and easy to get to via the city's excellent public transit, it's easy to keep warm, and the city's climate is relatively mild, even in winter.

Address: Museumplein 6, Amsterdam, Netherlands

Highlight : The largest collection of preserved historic windmills in the Netherlands

On the River Noord between Rotterdam and Dordrecht is the famous village of Kinderdijk ("Children's Dike"), which takes its name from an incident during the St. Elizabeth's Day flood of 1421 after a child's cradle had been stranded on the dike.

The big draw these days are the fantastically preserved 18th-century windmills. Now UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the 19 Kinderdijk windmills, built between 1722 and 1761, are the largest surviving concentration of windmills in the Netherlands.

Originally used to drain the fenlands, these majestic buildings with their impressive 92-foot sails are open to the public from April to October, including special Mill Days when the sails are set in motion. These picturesque windmills make for a fun excursion for those based in Rotterdam during their Netherlands stay.

• Read More: Top Tourist Attractions in Rotterdam & Easy Day Trips

Highlights : Vast national park with hiking, biking, wildlife, horseback riding, and camping

You may be surprised to learn that the Netherlands, a relatively small country, boasts one of the world's most diverse national park programs. The largest is De Hoge Veluwe National Park (Nationaal Park De Hoge Veluwe), between Arnhem and Apeldoorn, rightly considered one of the best places to visit in the Netherlands for outdoor enthusiasts .

Covering nearly 13,800 acres, this national park is the largest continuous nature reserve in the country, as well as being one of the most popular day trip destinations for locals and visitors alike. Featuring dense woodlands in the north, as well as a fascinating sculpture park, the area was once a country estate and hunting reserve, and to this day is home to many red and roe deer.

The best-preserved part of the park encompasses an area of dramatic dunes interspersed with heath and woodland and interrupted in the south and east by moraines up to 100 meters high. It's also a popular area for bird-watching, as well as hiking and biking (use of bikes is free to visitors).

The highlight of this beautiful park for many — and the reason many people choose to come here — is the outstanding Kröller-Müller Museum (Rijksmuseum Kröller-Müller), housing the world's second-largest collection of works by Van Gogh. In addition, the collections include Impressionist and Expressionist paintings by Cézanne, Manet, Monet, and Renoir. Outdoors, one of Europe's largest sculpture gardens shows works by Rodin, Hepworth, Dubuffet, and others.

Address: Houtkampweg 6, Otterlo, Netherlands

• Read More: Exploring De Hoge Veluwe National Park: A Visitor's Guide

Highlights : Pedestrian-friendly old city center, cathedral tower with views, and museums

A popular tourist destination for its many fine historic buildings, the Dutch city of Utrecht should definitely be included on your Netherlands travel itinerary.

Start your exploration of this pedestrian-friendly city in Cathedral Square. The Domplein, as it's known locally, is the site of St. Martin's Cathedral, or Dom Church (Domkerk). Although founded in 1254, much of what you see dates from the 14th and 15th centuries.

You'll also want to visit the Domtoren , a surviving stand-alone church tower built in the 1300s that rises high above the surrounding buildings. Be sure to make the climb up to the viewing platforms for its superb views over Utrecht. Although there are 465 steps to climb, the guided tour that comes with the climb is an excellent introduction to the city's rich history.

Address: Achter de Dom 1, 3512 JN Utrecht, Netherlands

Highlights : Beautiful lake region with historic waterways, quaint villages, and cultural attractions

Among the most beautiful villages in the Netherlands are the small hamlets along the Ijsselmeer (Lake Ijssel), the freshwater lake that resulted from the closing of the sea entrance to the Zuider Zee. These towns flourished during Amsterdam's Golden Age, when they had access to the Atlantic and prospered as fishing and trade centers, but lost importance as the harbors silted up.

Today, they're among the most photographed tourist attractions in the country. Time seems to have stood still for the fishing village of Marken and the seaports of Volendam and Enkhuizen , where many of the colorful houses have become museums and shops.

Enkhuizen has preserved many of its buildings and seafaring industries in the open-air Zuiderzee Museum , where the cultural heritage and maritime history of the old Zuiderzee region is preserved. Here, you can see craftsmen at work learning old maritime skills. In Volendam's harbor, you can see a collection of colorful old wooden boats.

Address: Wierdijk 12 - 22, Enkhuizen, Netherlands

Highlights : Modern dike system with dams, canals, and visitor center

Incorporating the deltas of the Rhine, the Maas, and the Schelde Rivers, Zeeland includes the numerous islands and peninsulas of the southwestern section of the Netherlands. Much of this area of recently formed land is below sea level and therefore reliant upon impressive dikes, as well as modern flood prevention techniques.

As you travel the area, you'll see evidence of the mega-engineering project known as the Delta Works . These massive structures — basically hi-tech dams — can control how much water enters the area's key estuaries from the North Sea.

Consisting of dams, sluices, locks, dikes, and storm-surge barriers, this awe-inspiring US$7 billion project has been declared one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World.

Highlights : Medieval village with preserved buildings, castle ruins, and large spa complex

For those looking for a little ancient history, the Netherlands is not without its own medieval (and earlier) attractions. Romantic little Valkenburg, in the picturesque Geul Valley, boasts the country's only hilltop castle,. Long a popular holiday resort, the town's other big draws are its many caves and the spa facilities at Thermae 2000 , one of the largest such establishments in the Netherlands.

In addition to the ruins of the 12th-century castle on Dwingelrots (Castle Rock), there's also the interesting 14th-century St. Nicolaaskerk Basilica . Another highlight is the town's famous Christmas Market (mid-November to December 23rd) held in the Velvet Caves, the maze of old passageways leading to and from the castle.

Highlight : Home of the famous Royal Delft pottery with factory tours and shopping

Located between the cities of The Hague and Rotterdam (and therefore easy to get to), Delft is known the world over for its famous blue and white porcelain products. Delftware, as it's usually known, has adorned shelves and dining rooms the world over since the 1600s, and remains as popular today as it was back then.

Known in English as Royal Delft , the original manufacturer, Koninklijke Porceleyne Fles N.V., has been around since 1653 and offers a variety of fun experiences for visitors.

In addition to informative tours of the factory, including a chance to see talented artisans hand painting pottery, you can visit the factory's vast collection of Delftware, and even finish up with a posh afternoon tea experience in the on-site tea room.

Address: Rotterdamseweg 196, 2628 AR Delft, Netherlands

Highlights : Fairytale castle with huge grounds, hiking trails, and guided tours

Near the lovely old city of Utrecht, the fourth largest in the Netherlands, De Haar Castle (Kasteel De Haar) is the largest fortification in the country.

This spectacular castle, built by the famous Dutch architect PJH Cuypers, required so much land (it sits on a spectacular 250-acre park) that the entire village of Haarzuilens had to be relocated to accommodate it. While the original castle site was established in the 14th century, this newer structure dates from 1892 and is well worth taking the time to explore.

Inside, you'll be rewarded with impressive collections of antiques, furniture, paintings, and tapestries, but it's the gardens that really draw the crowds — along with the castle's fairy-tale looks.

Highlights : Living history museum with costumed interpreters, cultural events, and interactive workshops

The city of Arnhem is well worth including on your Netherlands travel itinerary. Famous for its location on a branch of the Rhine River and the battles that ensued here during WWII, it's here you'll find the Netherlands Open Air Museum (Nederlands Openluchtmuseum).

This family-friendly attraction has provided visitors with a fascinating look at traditional Dutch lifestyles for well over 100 years, with costumed guides offering unique insights into cultural, farming, and manufacturing aspects of life up to the mechanization of the 1900s.

Authentic period homes, workshops, and businesses offer hands-on opportunities to learn about and appreciate once-common practices, from fishing to baking and even clog making. Other highlights include a still-operating vintage tram, cultural events and concerts, and fun kids' programs.

Address: Hoeferlaan 4, 6816 SG Arnhem, Netherlands

As one of the most visited countries in Europe, the Netherlands can get pretty busy during the peak summer months, especially in July when the schools break up.

The spring shoulder months of April and May are a great time to visit Amsterdam and the rest of the Netherlands, with many of the country's best parks and gardens bursting into life with an abundance of greenery and flowers (tulips are everywhere in the Netherlands!).

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Things to Do in St. Anthony, Canada - St. Anthony Attractions

Things to do in st. anthony.

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• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Grenfell Historic Properties

2. Grenfell House Museum

3. Dare Devil Trail

4. Fishing Point Municipal Park

5. The Jordi Bonet Murals

6. Pumley Cove Trail

7. Fox Point (Fishing Point) Lighthouse

8. Tea House Hill Walking Trail

9. Cartier's View Trail

10. Whale Watchers Trail

11. St. Anthony Bight Loop

12. Santana Trail

13. Fishing Point Emporium

14. little brehat trail, 15. bottom brook trails, 16. john patey's trail, 17. silver point trail, 18. flat point trail, 19. lamage point trail.

20. Northland Discovery Boat Tours

21. Iceberg Alley Boat Tours

22. RagnaRöck Northern Brewing Company Ltd

What travelers are saying

• Grenfell House Museum
• Grenfell Historic Properties
• Dare Devil Trail
• The Jordi Bonet Murals
• Fox Point (Fishing Point) Lighthouse
• Fishing Point Municipal Park
• Pumley Cove Trail
• Cartier's View Trail
• Tea House Hill Walking Trail

This New York City Map Is Full of Dutch Secrets

When broadway was a broad way and wall street was a wall..

F our hundred years ago, the Dutch established the colony of New Amsterdam on the southern tip of the island of Mannahatta. A map of the settlement circa 1660, known as the Castello Plan, offers a birds-eye view of a thriving community of about 1,500 people. There are houses, businesses, extensive gardens, windmills, piers, and boats bobbing along the rocky coast. Near the southern end of the island stands Fort Amsterdam flying the flag of the Dutch West India Company. On the western side, a broad way stretches north from the fort toward a wall that crosses the island from east to west.

“I can’t tell you how many times I’ve walked these streets,” says author and historian Russell Shorto—and he’s not speaking metaphorically. Follow the map today, and you can find yourself standing in New York City ’s Financial District at the place where that broad way—today’s Broadway —and the northern wall—Wall Street—meet. Simply put, the Castello Plan is a map of Manhattan before it was Manhattan. “We’re entering New Amsterdam,” says Shorto.

The details shown on the map have been erased by time, as New Amsterdam became New York City and landfill projects reshaped Manhattan’s shoreline, but the streets, though renamed, remain, among them Broadway; Wall Street; Pearl Street, which then marked the island’s eastern border; and Broad Street, once home to a canal that ran through the center of the settlement almost to the modern-day Exchange Place. The footprint of Fort Amsterdam remains too; today the 20th-century Alexander Hamilton U.S. Custom House occupies the site.

Close your eyes and you can imagine these blocks as they looked in the mid-17th century. “I always think of it as kind of a little Wild West -looking town, but with Dutch gable houses,” says Shorto, who wrote The Island at the Centre of the World: The Epic Story of Dutch Manhattan and the Forgotten Colony that Shaped America . He points out a house on the map that once stood near the modern-day intersection of Pearl and Whitehall streets. Lenape people came there to trade corn and venison with the settlers. On what is now South William Street, Shorto identifies a modest building where dozens of African people enslaved by the Dutch West India Company lived. “This map has been imprinted in my mind for a long time,” he says.

But until just before the opening of a new exhibit at the New York Historical Society featuring the Castello Plan (on display March 15 through July 14, 2024), Shorto had never seen the artifact in person. The most revealing map of the origins of New York City is in the collection of the Biblioteca Medicea Laurenziana in Italy . It has rarely been displayed on the island it depicts.

The story of the Castello Plan begins in about 1660 at the height of the settlement, when Jacques Cortelyou, a prominent resident of New Netherlands and surveyor-general of the province, created a map of New Amsterdam. (Perhaps in the small building facing Fort Amsterdam he rented as office space, near the corner of what is today Whitehall and Bridge streets.) The map—and an accompanying census offering such details as who rented which building—was then sent to old Amsterdam , where Johannes Vingboons, a noted cartographer and watercolorist, created a replica of the work.

The original has since been lost, but the replica was later bound into an atlas that was sold to Cosimo III de’ Medici , Grand Duke of Tuscany, while he was visiting Holland in the late 1660s to tour some well-known Dutch painters’ studios. It wasn’t until the early 1900s that the geographical world rediscovered the map: this centuries-old map of a long-gone Dutch New World colony was hanging on a wall in the Villa di Castello, a country estate that once belonged to de’ Medici, outside of Florence .

“Throughout much of our history, we’ve looked at American beginnings through English eyes,” Shorto says. Like the Castello Plan itself, the story of Dutch New Amsterdam was long overlooked. But the Dutch colony is key to understanding New York today, Shorto says. The settlers imported their ideas of pluralism and business from Europe. “This multi-ethnic community and its capitalist ethic has defined New York from the very beginning,” he says.

When Shorto proposed creating an exhibit commemorating the 400th anniversary of the founding of New Amsterdam, he knew he wanted to bring the Castello Plan back to New York. It has become the centerpiece of a complicated, multi-layered story about the history of Manhattan.

Included among the artifacts on display is New York’s “birth certificate”—a letter describing the purchase of the island from Indigenous people, the terms of which are much debated—and a mpungu collection. This mpungu is a trove of bones and teeth, fragments of a pipe, a copper thimble, stoneware marbles, and other small items which were discovered in a basket buried under a Dutch plate near a home that once stood on present-day Pearl Street. It is evidence of an enslaved person, who brought parts of their culture to the island, too, says Shorto. In some central African cultures these mpungu—“to stick together”—have healing properties.

That’s the story Shorto sees when he looks at the Castello Plan. (An interactive version created in partnership with the New Amsterdam History Center makes that view accessible to all .)

“New Yorkers are coming to appreciate that their beginnings are quite different from other parts of colonial America,” Shorto says, “and that directly connects with what New York has become.”

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What time the 2024 solar eclipse started, reached peak totality and ended

By Sarah Maddox

Updated on: April 9, 2024 / 5:04 AM EDT / CBS News

The 2024 solar eclipse will be visible across North America today. As the moon's position between the Earth and sun casts a shadow on North America, that shadow, or umbra, will travel along the surface from west to east at more than 1,500 miles per hour along the path of totality . 

That means the eclipse will start, peak and end at different times — as will the moments of total darkness along the path of totality — and the best time to view the eclipse depends on where you are located. Some places along the path will have more totality time than others.

In Texas, the south-central region had clouds in the forecast , but it was better to the northeast, according to the National Weather Service. The best eclipse viewing weather was expected in New Hampshire, Vermont and Maine, as well as in Canada's New Brunswick and Newfoundland.

What time does the 2024 total solar eclipse start?

The total solar eclipse will emerge over the South Pacific Ocean before the shadow falls across North America, beginning in parts of Mexico. The path of totality , where onlookers can witness the moon fully blocking the sun (through eclipse viewing glasses for safety ), is expected to first make landfall near the city of Mazatlán around 9:51 a.m. MT. 

The total solar eclipse will cross over the U.S.-Mexico border into Texas, where it will emerge over Eagle Pass at 12:10 p.m. CT and then peak at about 1:27 p.m. CT.

In Dallas, NASA data shows the partial eclipse will first become visible at 12:23 p.m. CT and peak at 1:40 p.m. CT. The next states in the path of totality are Oklahoma and Arkansas, where the eclipse begins in Little Rock at 12:33 p.m. CT. 

Cleveland will see the beginning of the eclipse at 1:59 p.m. ET. Darkness will start spreading over the sky in Buffalo, New York, at 2:04 p.m. ET. Then, the eclipse will reach northwestern Vermont, including Burlington, at 2:14 p.m. ET. Parts of New Hampshire and Maine will also follow in the path of totality before the eclipse first reaches the Canadian mainland  at 3:13 p.m. ET.

Although the experience won't be exactly the same, viewers in all the contiguous U.S. states outside the path of totality will still be able to see a partial eclipse. Some places will see most of the sun blocked by the moon, including Washington, D.C., where the partial eclipse will start at 2:04 p.m. ET and peak at about 3:20 p.m. ET.

In Chicago, viewers can start viewing the partial eclipse at 12:51 p.m. CT, with the peak arriving at 2:07 p.m. CT.  In Detroit, viewers will be able to enjoy a near-total eclipse beginning at 1:58 p.m. ET and peaking at 3:14 p.m. ET.

New York City will also see a substantial partial eclipse, beginning at 2:10 p.m. ET and peaking around 3:25 p.m. ET.

In Boston it will begin at 2:16 p.m. ET and peak at about 3:29 p.m. ET.

The below table by NASA shows when the eclipse will start, peak and end in 13 cities along the eclipse's path.

What time will the solar eclipse reach peak totality?

Millions more people will have the chance to witness the total solar eclipse this year than during the last total solar eclipse , which was visible from the U.S. in 2017. 

The eclipse's peak will mean something different for cities within the path of totality and for those outside. Within the path of totality, darkness will fall for a few minutes. The longest will last more than 4 minutes, but most places will see between 3.5 and 4 minutes of totality. In cities experiencing a partial eclipse, a percentage of the sun will be obscured for more than two hours.

Mazatlán is set to experience totality at 11:07 am PT. Dallas will be able to see the moon fully cover the sun at 1:40 p.m. CT. Little Rock will start to see the full eclipse at 1:51 p.m. CT, Cleveland at 3:13 p.m. ET and Buffalo at 3:18 p.m. ET. Totality will reach Burlington at 3:26 p.m. ET before moving into the remaining states and reaching Canada around 4:25 p.m.

Outside the path of totality, 87.4% of the sun will be eclipsed in Washington, D.C. at 3:20 p.m. ET, and Chicago will have maximum coverage of 93.9% at 2:07 p.m. CT. New York City is much closer to the path of totality this year than it was in 2017; it will see 89.6% coverage at 3:25 p.m. EDT. 

Detroit is another city that will encounter a near-total eclipse, with 99.2% maximum coverage at 3:14 p.m. ET. Boston will see 92.4% coverage at 3:29 p.m. ET.

What time will the solar eclipse end?

The eclipse will leave continental North America from Newfoundland, Canada, at 5:16 p.m. NT, according to NASA.

At the beginning of the path of totality in Mazatlán, the eclipse will be over by 12:32 p.m. PT, and it will leave Dallas at 3:02 p.m. CT. The eclipse will end in Little Rock at 3:11 p.m. CT, Cleveland at 4:29 p.m. CDT and Buffalo at 4:32 p.m. ET. Burlington won't be far behind, with the eclipse concluding at 4:37 p.m. ET.

Meanwhile, the viewing will end in Chicago at 3:21 p.m. CT, Washington, D.C. at 4:32 p.m. ET, and New York City at 4:36 p.m. ET. 

In Detroit, the partial eclipse will disappear at 4:27 p.m. ET, and in Boston, it will be over at 4:39 p.m. ET.

How long will the eclipse last in total?

The total solar eclipse will begin in Mexico at 11:07 a.m. PT and leave continental North America at 5:16 p.m. NT. From the time the partial eclipse first appears on Earth to its final glimpses before disappearing thousands of miles away, the celestial show will dazzle viewers for about 5 hours, according to timeanddate.com . 

The length of the total solar eclipse at points along the path depends on the viewing location. The longest will be 4 minutes and 28 seconds, northwest of Torreón, Mexico. Near the center of the path, totality takes place for the longest periods of time, according to NASA.

Spectators will observe totality for much longer today than during the 2017 eclipse , when the longest stretch of totality was 2 minutes and 32 seconds.

The moon's shadow seen on Earth today, called the umbra, travels at more than 1,500 miles per hour, according to NASA. It would move even more quickly if the Earth rotated in the opposite direction.

What is the longest a solar eclipse has ever lasted?

The longest known totality was 7 minutes and 28 seconds in 743 B.C. However, NASA says this record will be broken in 2186 with a 7 minute, 29 second total solar eclipse. The next total solar eclipse visible from parts of the U.S. won't happen until Aug. 23, 2044.

Sarah Maddox has been with CBS News since 2019. She works as an associate producer for CBS News Live.

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Solar eclipse maps show 2024 totality path, peak times across the U.S.

A total solar eclipse  crossed North America Monday with parts of 15 U.S. states within the path of totality. Maps show  where and when astronomy fans could see the big event  as skies darkened in the middle of the day Monday, April 8.

The total eclipse first appeared along Mexico's Pacific Coast at around 11:07 a.m. PDT, then traveled across a swath of the U.S., from Texas to Maine, and into Canada.

About 31.6 million people live in the path of totality , the area where the moon fully blocked out the sun , according to NASA. The path ranged between 108 and 122 miles wide. An additional 150 million people live within 200 miles of the path of totality.

Solar eclipse path of totality map for 2024

The total solar eclipse started over the Pacific Ocean, and the first location in continental North America that experienced totality was Mexico's Pacific Coast, around 11:07 a.m. PDT, according to NASA. From there, the path continued into Texas, crossing more than a dozen states before the eclipse enters Canada in southern Ontario. The eclipse exited continental North America at around 5:16 p.m. NDT from Newfoundland, Canada.

The path of totality included portions of the following states:

Texas OklahomaArkansasMissouri Illinois KentuckyIndianaOhio Pennsylvania New York Vermont New Hampshire Maine

Small parts of Tennessee and Michigan also experienced the total solar eclipse.

Several major cities across the U.S. were included in the eclipse's path of totality, while many others saw a partial eclipse. These were some of the best major cities for eclipse viewing — though the weather was a factor :

San Antonio, Texas (partially under the path)Austin, TexasWaco, TexasDallas, TexasLittle Rock, ArkansasIndianapolis, IndianaDayton, OhioCleveland, OhioBuffalo, New YorkRochester, New YorkSyracuse, New YorkBurlington, VermontMap of when the solar eclipse reached totality across its path

The eclipse began in the U.S. as a partial eclipse beginning at 12:06 p.m. CDT near Eagle Pass, Texas, before progressing to totality by about 1:27 p.m. CDT and then moving along its path to the northeast over the following few hours.

NASA shared times for several cities in the path of totality across the U.S. People could have also  checked their ZIP code on NASA's map  to see when the eclipse was to reach them if they were on, or near, the path of totality — or if they saw a partial eclipse instead.

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Central Newfoundland tourist map

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Watch live as solar eclipse 2024 begins path across the us.

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Follow along as the solar eclipse journeys across the United States — with the moon momentarily blocking the sun for over 180 million people living in its path, including some lucky upstate New Yorkers, who will take in the celestial extravaganza Monday afternoon.

The highly anticipated eclipse will travel from Mexico’s Pacific Coast up to the coast of Newfoundland, Canada, hitting 15 US states along the way.

While over 180 million people will be in the eclipse’s path, including some 32 million Americans living in the path of totality, clouds may prevent parts of the southern and central US from witnessing the natural phenomenon.

The eclipse will last for several hours surrounding almost four minutes of darkness in the zone of totality — a narrow band of about 100 miles that stretches from Mexico to Maine and beyond.

Everything to know about the 2024 solar eclipse

• The solar eclipse will take place Monday, April 8, blocking the sun for over 180 million people in its path.
• The eclipse will expand from Mexico’s Pacific Coast across North America , hitting 15 US states and pulling itself all the way to the coast of Newfoundland, Canada.
• New Yorkers will experience the solar eclipse just after 2 p.m. Monday.
• A huge explosion on the sun , known as a coronal mass ejection, is anticipated, according to experts. This happens when massive particles from the sun are hurled out into space, explains Ryan French of the National Solar Observatory in Boulder, Colorado.
• To avoid serious injury to the eyes , it is necessary to view the event through proper eyewear like eclipse glasses , or a handheld solar viewer, during the partial eclipse phase before and after totality.
• The next total solar eclipse will take place on Aug. 12, 2026, and totality will be visible to those in Greenland, Iceland, Spain, Russia and a small slice of Portugal. 

Those looking to take in the eclipse are urged to view the event through proper, NASA-approved eyewear like eclipse glasses , or a handheld solar viewer, to avoid eye damage.

The eclipse will enter the US in Texas and travel through Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Small parts of Tennessee and Michigan will also experience the total solar eclipse, NASA said.

The eclipse will exit continental North America on the Atlantic coast of Newfoundland, Canada, just after 3:30 p.m. EST.

It will be the  last time  a total solar eclipse passes over a large part of the U.S. until 2044.

Another total solar eclipse won’t be visible from New York again until 2079, when the zone of totality  will include  the five boroughs.

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