Canada's Five best Things to Do

1. Attend the Stampede in Calgary.

Thousands of tourists flock to Calgary in July for this multi-day rodeo, drinking festival, and carnival. It's a gathering where everybody dresses up as a cowboy for a few days. It'll be a lot of fun, and you'll meet a lot of interesting people from all over the world. If you want to blend in, put on a pair of cowboy boots and a hat. Save some money to try the festival's exclusive cuisine, and arrive early to avoid missing out on the most famous tents. It's one of Canada's most prestigious events.

2. Go skiing or snowboarding

In the winter, the Canadian mountains are ideal for skiing and snowboarding. Banff is a well-known mountain town with excellent hiking trails.During the winter months, it gets very busy as locals and tourists alike reach the slopes. While Banff is the most well-known ski destination in the world, there are numerous other excellent options. You can visit Sunshine Village, Whistler Blackcomb, Lake Louise, Kicking Horse, and Mont Tremblant, to name a few (they stretch from British Columbia to Quebec).

3. Spend some time on Vancouver Island

Take a break from the city for a few days to visit this western island. Try the fresh seafood, go on a picnic, look for whales, browse, and relax on the beach. This is a great spot to rest and unwind. Since it is so close to Vancouver, it is a popular summer getaway for locals. Victoria is the capital of British Columbia and is a small but lovely little place. You can also travel from here to places like Tofino, where the thriving surf culture has transformed into a cool hippie town.

4. Take a ride by car

The only way to see this vast country is by car. It's the perfect way to discover tiny little cities, magnificent mountains, breathtaking scenery, and plenty of off-the-beaten-path destinations. This is the easiest and cheapest way to see the country if you have a lot of time. Bear in mind, though, that weather in Canada can be unpredictable (especially during the winter months), that you'll need to keep an eye out for wildlife, and that you'll need to be prepared for long periods of driving without rest stops or gas stations. It'll be well worth it!

5. Take a stroll around the nation's capital.

Ottawa is a rather pedestrian-friendly community. It's a beautiful city worth a visit, with museums, art galleries, and plenty of shops. You can visit Quebec by crossing the Ottawa River or taking a tour of Parliament Hill, the historic buildings where the Canadian government works. During your stay, you must visit the Canadian War Museum and the National Gallery of Canada. Otherwise, simply stroll through the bustling Byward Market area or visit one of Westboro's craft breweries. While you're there, try a beaver tail (a flaky, sweet pastry).