16 Awesome Things to Do in Newfoundland with Kids

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During our incredible road trip through the east coast of Canada, we discovered that there were so many awesome things to do in Newfoundland with kids. And although we spent a full week exploring the province, we still wish that we could have had more time!

From spotting humpback whales and icebergs along the coast to exploring ancient Viking settlements and hiking rugged trails, there’s no shortage of activities to keep your family entertained and engaged. And let’s not forget about the friendly locals, the delicious seafood, and the stunning scenery that will leave you breathless.

So grab your sense of adventure, and get ready to discover the best things to do in Newfoundland with kids. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, historical sites, or just some good old-fashioned fun, we’ve got you covered.

Is Newfoundland Worth Visiting with Kids?

Absolutely! Newfoundland is definitely worth visiting with kids of all ages.

The island is a fantastic destination for families, with plenty of unique experiences and natural wonders to explore. From the stunning coastline to the charming towns and historic sites, there’s something of interest for every member of the family.

Is Newfoundland family-friendly? Yes!

Not only is Newfoundland very family-friendly, but it is also extremely safe for families. The locals are really friendly and there was never a time during our travels when we felt uncomfortable or unsafe.

And aside from the need to drive long distances between many of the places that we wanted to see, there was a variety of attractions and places to visit to keep the kids entertained.

Best Time to Visit Newfoundland with Kids

The best time to visit Newfoundland with kids really depends on what you’re looking for. If you’re keen to see icebergs and whales, then late spring to early summer is the perfect time to visit.

But if you’re more interested in hiking and outdoor adventures, then summer and early fall are your best bet. Just be prepared for some chilly weather and pack accordingly!

And if you’re looking for a winter wonderland experience, then head to Newfoundland in the winter months for some snowshoeing, skiing, and cozy cabin getaways.

And while we didn’t find it too busy during our vacation in July, the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) would be best if you are looking for fewer crowds. But no matter when you choose to visit, Newfoundland is always ready to welcome you with open arms and plenty of fun activities for the whole family.

Things to Do in Newfoundland with Kids

From hiking scenic trails and visiting charming fishing villages to spotting icebergs and whales, there are countless things to do in Newfoundland with kids that will make your family vacation one to remember.

1. Go for a Hike in Gros Morne National Park

Gros Morne National Park is a stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers incredible natural beauty and plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures. Whether you are looking to hike, paddle, swim, camp, or just explore the park, it’s going to be an awesome experience!

One of the best ways to explore the park is by hiking. Depending on how much time you have and your skill level, there are several kid-friendly hiking trails.

The most popular hike in the park is the Tablelands Trail. This hike takes you through an otherworldly landscape of exposed mantle rock. The Western Brook Pond Trail is also a must-see, featuring a breathtaking fjord lake surrounded by steep cliffs.

If you are heading to the park with younger children, a boat tour of the fjords is a great way to experience the natural beauty of the park without hiking. The boat tour is also a perfect opportunity to spot wildlife such as moose, caribou, and seabirds.

So Much to Do!

If your kids are interested in geology, a visit to the Discovery Centre is a must. The centre has interactive exhibits and displays that explain the geology and natural history of Gros Morne National Park.

Another family-friendly activity is a visit to the beach. Gros Morne has several beautiful beaches, including Norris Point Beach and Shallow Bay Beach. Pack a picnic and spend the day building sandcastles, exploring the shoreline, and enjoying the scenery.

Finally, a visit to the nearby fishing village of Woody Point is a great way to experience the local culture. Take a walk along the boardwalk, explore the local shops and galleries, and learn about the area’s history and traditions.

We only spent two days in Gros Morne National Park, including an overnight stay, and it wasn’t nearly enough to see all the sights. But no matter what your family is interested in, Gross Morne should be on your Newfoundland bucket list.

2. Test Your Courage at the Zipline with Marble Zip Tours

If you’re looking for a thrilling and exciting activity to do in Newfoundland, look no further than ziplining with Marble Zip Tours. This heart-pumping zipline adventure is perfect for families with older kids who are looking for a bit of an adrenaline rush.

The zipline is located at Marble Mountain, just outside of Corner Brook, and approximately 2.5 hours (225 km) from the Port aux Basques Ferry Terminal.

Touted as the highest zipline in Canada, the course consists of 9 different lines. The lines range from 500 feet up to 2000 feet long, with the highest line being 285 feet above the ground.

The course takes approximately 2 hours to complete, and is definitely not for the faint of heart! Kids must be 6 years old to do the zip tour, with a minimum weight requirement of 60 lbs (30 kg).

Before you take the plunge, you’ll receive a safety briefing and be outfitted with a harness and helmet. Once you’re all geared up, you will be driven up the mountain to the first zip line. You will have multiple guides with you throughout the course for safety purposes.

We Loved It!

Our family absolutely LOVED this experience! We were not new to ziplining, however, we have to say, this was the best experience ever!

From the super friendly guides to the amazing views and thrilling course, we couldn’t have asked for a better experience.

So whether you’re a seasoned thrill-seeker or a first-timer, this is an activity that is sure to get your heart racing and your adrenaline pumping. So go ahead, test your courage and take the plunge!

3. Make Friends with some Butterflies at the Newfoundland Insectarium

The Newfoundland Insectarium is a small but really awesome attraction that makes for the perfect stop on a family road trip. Conveniently located off the Trans-Canada Highway in Deer Lake, you could probably spend about 2 hours visiting the attraction.

The Insectarium features both live and mounted insects from all over the world. You will find fascinating displays of insects including live beetles, stick insects, tarantulas, scorpions, and so much more.

The staff at the Insectarium are friendly and have plenty of amazing insights into many of the insects on display. Of course, our kids were most excited about being able to hold one of the stick insects!

But one of the most popular exhibits at the Insectarium, especially for the younger kids, is the butterfly garden. Here, you’ll be surrounded by dozens of beautiful butterflies fluttering around you as you walk through the habitat.

We also found both the fully-functional glass honeybee hive and the Leafcutter Ant colony (which is made up of clear tubes that run throughout the exhibit hall), to be completely fascinating!

4. Explore the Viking Settlement at L’Anse Aux Meadows

L’Anse aux Meadows is a National Historic Site in Newfoundland that is home to the remains of a Viking settlement. The site dates back to around the year 1000 and is definitely worth a visit.

Located on the northernmost tip of Newfoundland, L’Anse aux Meadows is definitely out of the way. It is approximately an 8-hour drive (700 km) from the Port aux Basque Ferry Terminal.

At L’Anse aux Meadows, you can explore reconstructed Viking buildings and learn about the daily life of these Norse explorers. You can see artifacts from the Viking era and learn about the skills and trades of the people who lived here.

One of the highlights of a visit to L’Anse aux Meadows is the costumed Parks Canada staff whom you will find in the Viking buildings. They stay in character and talk to you about what life would be like living in those times.

It was a great way for the kids to learn something new because they were able to participate in bringing the Viking settlement to life. We definitely had fun learning about the Viking way of life, their culture and traditions, and their connections to the rest of the world.

But L’Anse aux Meadows isn’t just about history – it’s also a stunning natural area with incredible scenery. You can also explore the rugged coastline, watch for whales and seabirds, and enjoy the fresh sea air.

5. See the Icebergs in St. Anthony

Located just 37 minutes (40 km) south of the L’Anse aux Meadows National Historic, St. Anthony is definitely worth a stop on your Newfoundland road trip if you are looking to spot some icebergs.

These massive chunks of ice can be seen along the coast of Newfoundland during the spring and summer months, as they float down from the Arctic. And St. Anthony is one of the best places to see them up close.

Of course, one of the most popular ways to view icebergs is by taking a boat tour. You’ll cruise through the water, getting an up-close view of the icebergs, as well as having the opportunity to spot whales or other marine life.

But if you prefer to stay on land, there are plenty of opportunities to view the icebergs from the shore. You can hike along the coast or head to one of the many lookout points for a breathtaking view of the icebergs in the distance.

Be sure to check out Icebergfinder.com for real-time locations of any icebergs in the area. This really cool app is a lot of fun for the kids, can send you alerts, and you can even upload your own photos so that other travellers know what to look for.

We were in Newfoundland in July and unfortunately did not spot any icebergs during our trip. According to the locals, they had seen some in the area, but they were smaller, and proved to be quite elusive!

6. Take the Ferry to Labrador

If you have some extra time on your trip to Newfoundland, why not head over to Labrador, the mainland portion of the province? There are usually two departures per day with the Labrador Ferry, so you could go for a few hours, or choose to spend the night.

The Labrador Ferry departs from St. Barbe in Newfoundland, which is approximately 6 hours (562 km) from the Port aux Basques Ferry Terminal or 1.5 hours (123 km) from St. Anthony. The ferry takes about 1.5 hours to make its way to Blanc-Sablon, Quebec, where it’s only another 10-minute drive to the Labrador border.

We chose to spend just half the day in Labrador, but it was definitely worthwhile. We were able to drive along the coast and go for an incredible hike at Red Bay on the Tracey Hill Walking Trail.

On our way back down the coast, we stopped in at the Point Amour Lighthouse where we did a short tour, as well as the Labrador Visitor’s Centre. Although we didn’t have a lot of time, we definitely made good use of what we did have to see some pretty awesome sights!

Check the Time!

But just a heads up, Labrador, although part of Newfoundland, operates on Atlantic time. So they are half an hour behind Newfoundland time.

We were super confused and had to double-check the correct time at the Ferry station before going out to explore. We didn’t want to miss our ferry ride back to Newfoundland, after all!

Of course, if you have the time to spend the night, or even more, Labrador has plenty of interesting hikes and attractions that are located further from the coast and into the bigger cities.

7. Learn About Gander at the North Atlantic Aviation Museum

If you’re interested in aviation history, or just looking for an engaging and educational activity for the whole family, make sure to visit the North Atlantic Aviation Museum in Gander.

Located in the heart of Gander, the museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the aviation history of the region. You’ll find exhibits and artifacts covering everything from the early days of flight to modern aviation technology.

Our youngest son, Mr. Bump, is interested in becoming a pilot, so aviation museums are a staple when we travel. This one is a little on the small side, but it did have some interesting exhibits.

Outside the museum, you will find several vintage aircraft on display. Inside, there is a cockpit that you can climb into, as well as a flight simulator.

Just How is Gander Connected to 9/11?

But the most interesting exhibit was the one about Gander’s role in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks. When North America closed its airspace, several commercial planes were forced to land at Gander’s airport.

Dubbed the “Plane People” by the locals, the passengers were stuck in Gander for four days, more than doubling the small town’s population. And with very few available accommodations, the people of Gander opened their homes, provided meals, and did what they could for the stranded passengers.

The small exhibit shows many of the thank you letters sent to the town, shows news reports, and talks in detail about how the town came together to welcome the world. The story of Gander has now been turned into a popular Broadway Musical called “Come From Away,” as well as a bestselling book “Channel of Peace.”

8. Go Camping in Terra Nova National Park

If you’re looking for a way to experience the natural beauty of Newfoundland, why not go camping in Terra Nova National Park? Located on the eastern coast of the island, Terra Nova National Park is Canada’s most easterly national park and is roughly 400 square kilometres in size.

The park is home to incredible Boreal forests, pristine lakes, and a ton of wildlife. Terra Nova was also designated a Dark Sky Preserve in 2018 by the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada.

Camping in Terra Nova National Park is a great way to immerse yourself in this natural wonderland. There are several campsites throughout the park, ranging from secluded backcountry spots to more developed campgrounds with amenities like showers, electrical hookups, and even roofed accommodations set up by Parks Canada.

The Ôasis Was a Unique Experience!

We actually tent camped one night, and stayed in a Parks Canada Ôasis on our second night in Terra Nova. The Ôasis, a tear-drop-shaped structure, was definitely unique and a lot of fun to try out!

No matter where you camp, you’ll be surrounded by the sights and sounds of nature. And if you are lucky enough to get a clear night, you will be treated to the most incredible starlit sky!

Of course, there’s more to do in Terra Nova National Park than just camping. You can hike through the park’s rugged terrain, paddle a canoe along one of its many lakes and rivers, or simply relax and soak in the natural beauty of this amazing place.

And don’t forget to head to the Terra Nova Visitor’s Centre. They have some pretty awesome displays showing the flora and fauna that can be found in the park, as well as having knowledgeable staff on hand to answer any questions.

9. See the Puffins at Bonavista Peninsula

Looking for a unique and unforgettable wildlife experience in Newfoundland? Look no further than the Bonavista Peninsula.

Not only is the area home to one of the largest puffin colonies in the world, but it is also one of the only places to see Puffins without getting on a boat !

Located on the eastern coast of the island, Bonavista Peninsula is a must-visit destination for bird lovers and nature enthusiasts. The rocky coastline and cliffs provide the perfect habitat for Atlantic puffins, with thousands of these charismatic birds nesting and raising their chicks here each year.

The best time to see the puffins is during the summer months, from late May until late August. Visitors to the Bonavista Peninsula can get up close and personal with the puffins, watching them as they dart in and out of their burrows and dive into the ocean to catch fish.

To get the most out of your visit to the Bonavista Peninsula, consider taking a guided boat tour with a local expert. They can provide insights into the behaviour and ecology of the puffins, as well as point out other wildlife and natural features of the area.

10. Climb up the Tower at Signal Hill in St Johns

Signal Hill is not only a National Historic site but one of the most iconic landmarks in the province. Located on the eastern edge of the city, Signal Hill offers breathtaking views of the city, the harbour, and the Atlantic Ocean.

At the top of the hill, you’ll find a stone tower that was originally built in the late 18th century as a military outpost. Today, the tower is a popular attraction, as you are rewarded with stunning panoramic views of St. John’s and the surrounding countryside from the top.

And on a clear day, you might even catch a glimpse of icebergs or whales in the distance.

Just a heads up, during the summer, Signal Hill can get pretty crowded, so you may have to wait to get a parking spot. We found the turnover of visitors to be pretty quick, however.

But the tower is not the only attraction at Signal Hill. The site also features hiking trails, picnic areas, and a museum that tells the story of the hill’s rich history, from its use as a strategic military location to its role in the development of transatlantic communication.

Don’t forget to stop by the Visitor’s Centre as well. Inside, you will not only find some interesting exhibits and displays but there is also an awesome little cafe and gelato place inside!

11. Visit the Terry Fox Memorial

The Terry Fox Memorial is a must-visit attraction for anyone travelling to St. John’s, Newfoundland. Located on the eastern edge of the city, this iconic monument pays tribute to one of Canada’s most beloved heroes.

Terry Fox was a young man from British Columbia. He became a national hero in the early 1980s when he embarked on a cross-country run to raise money for cancer research.

Despite losing his leg to cancer, Terry set out on a journey that would take him from Newfoundland to British Columbia, covering more than 5,000 kilometres in just 143 days.

Sadly, Terry’s journey was cut short when his cancer returned and he was forced to end his run. He passed away a few months later, but his legacy has lived on.

Today, Terry Fox continues to inspire millions of people around the world to continue his mission to find a cure for cancer. The Terry Fox Memorial is a powerful tribute to this remarkable young man.

The monument marks the spot where Terry began his run, putting his foot in the Atlantic Ocean. It features a bronze statue of Terry in mid-stride, as well as a series of plaques and inscriptions that tell his inspiring story.

Visiting this monument was especially poignant for us, as last summer we had also visited the Terry Fox Monument in Thunder Bay, where his journey sadly came to an end.

12. Visit a Lighthouse

There’s something magical about lighthouses, with their towering structures and stunning coastal views. And if you have been a visitor to our blog in the past, you will definitely have noticed that I LOVE visiting Lighthouses!

Newfoundland is home to several lighthouses that are worth exploring, each with its own unique charm and history. During our time in Newfoundland, we had time to visit and tour some of the more popular Lighthouses.

One of the most famous lighthouses in Newfoundland is the Cape Spear Lighthouse, located just outside of St. John’s. This iconic structure was built in the early 1800s and is the oldest surviving lighthouse in the province.

The Bonavista Lighthouse is another must-see attraction in Newfoundland. Cape Bonavista is where John Cabot first landed in 1497 and is now a National Historic site. Today, there are guided tours that explore the restored 1870s lightkeepers’ quarters.

If you are looking for a remote, but very unique lighthouse, head to Twilingate and the Long Point Lighthouse. Located at the northern tip of Twillingate, the lighthouse is surrounded by hiking trails overlooking Notre Dame Bay. It’s the perfect place to spot icebergs, whales (which we were lucky enough to see), and seabirds.

Of course, there are many more lighthouses that you can explore, depending on what part of Newfoundland you are visiting. They are all unique and charming in their own way and are fun to visit for the whole family.

13. Stand at North America’s Easternmost Point

Have you ever dreamt of standing at the edge of the world? Well, in Newfoundland, you can do just that… well, sort of anyway! Located on the tip of the Avalon Peninsula, Cape Spear is the easternmost point in North America and one of the most iconic landmarks in Newfoundland.

Cape Spear is a rugged, windswept headland that offers visitors a chance to stand on the edge of the continent and gaze out at the endless expanse of the Atlantic Ocean. Be sure to find the monument marking the Easternmost point before you leave!

At Cape Spear National Historic Site, you can also explore the historic lighthouse. It dates back to the mid-1800s and is one of the oldest surviving lighthouses in Newfoundland.

And don’t forget to take a walk through the underground remains of a Second World War coastal defence battery. You can even check out two ten-inch cannons that were once used to protect the entrance to St. John’s Harbour.

For a truly unforgettable experience, visit Cape Spear at sunrise or sunset, when the sky explodes with colour and the landscape takes on a magical quality. We, unfortunately, had fog during our visit, but from what we hear, it is definitely worth an early morning wake-up to see!

Whether you decide to take a stroll along the rugged coastline, or you are looking to see the Lighthouse or sit in the Parks Canada Red Chairs, a visit to Cape Spear should definitely be on your list.

14. See the Peter Pan Statue in Bowring Park

If you’re a fan of the classic children’s story “Peter Pan,” then you won’t want to miss the chance to visit Bowring Park in St. John’s, Newfoundland. This beautiful park is home to a stunning bronze statue of Peter Pan, one of the most iconic characters in children’s literature.

The statue was donated to the park by Sir Edgar Bowring, a local businessman and philanthropist, on August 29, 1925. It was commissioned in memorial of his little granddaughter Betty, who died at sea.

The statue depicts Peter Pan standing on a tree stump, surrounded by a group of adoring animals, including rabbits, squirrels, and birds. Since its unveiling, The Peter Pan Statue has become a beloved landmark and a must-see attraction for visitors to the park.

Today, the Bowring Park Foundation holds an annual Peter Pan Festival. This one-day family event includes food, musical and theatrical performances, and other family-friendly activities to commemorate the anniversary of the unveiling.

But the Peter Pan statue is just one of many attractions at Bowring Park. This 200-acre park, the largest municipal park in Newfoundland, is home to a stunning flower garden, a picturesque duck pond, and a beautiful amphitheatre that hosts concerts and events throughout the year.

There are also plenty of walking trails, picnic areas, a swimming pool, and a fully accessible splash pad, making it the perfect place to spend a relaxing afternoon with the family.

15. Be Amazed on a Whale-Watching Cruise

You definitely can’t visit Newfoundland without hopping on a whale-watching cruise! As one of the best places in the world to see whales, Newfoundland offers plenty of opportunities for you and your family to get up close and personal with these majestic creatures.

On a whale-watching tour, you’ll have the chance to see several species of whales, including humpbacks, minke whales, and orcas, as well as puffins and other sea birds. In fact, the waters off Newfoundland’s coast are home to the world’s largest population of feeding humpback whales.

Whale-watching tours are available from many locations throughout Newfoundland, including St. John’s, Twillingate, and Trinity Bay. The experienced guides on board your cruise will provide you with plenty of fascinating insights into the whales’ behaviour and history.

We had a fabulous experience doing a whale watching and puffin tour with Gatherall’s. The guides were fun and informative, and we were lucky enough to have a whale come and swim alongside our boat for a bit.

And as an added bonus, Hubby and I were even able to get “Screeched In” while on the cruise! This is a ceremony whereby guests can become honourary Newfoundlanders by reciting a poem, drinking some Screech (rum) and kissing a cod.

🐋 Check rates and availability for the Gatherall’s Puffin and Whale Watching Cruise here.

16. Have Fun at the Beach

Seeing as Newfoundland is an island, you can pretty much assume that there will be plenty of beaches to choose from. And you would be right!

One of our favourite beach days was spent at Lumsden Beach. The small town of Lumsden is located about 2 hours (154 km) from Twilingate, and was definitely worth the drive out there!

With its clear blue waters and soft white sand, this beautiful stretch of coastline is the perfect place to unwind and have some fun in the sun. There wasn’t a lot around in terms of amenities, but we did see at least one small cafe on the beach.

The beach is quite big, and we found the water to be pretty clear and shallow making it perfect for younger kids. There were also plenty of people paddleboarding and kayaking a little further from the shore.

We brought our own picnic and had a fabulous afternoon relaxing by the water.

How to Get to Newfoundland

Getting to Newfoundland is easier than you might think! You have two options:

By Plane

Newfoundland is home to several airports. You can fly directly into St. John’s International Airport, the provincial capital, from major cities like Toronto, Montreal, Halifax, and even New York or London.

Some of the smaller airports, like those in Gander, Deer Lake or St. Anthony, are also an option if you are travelling domestically.

✈️ Find the cheapest flights to Newfoundland using Skyscanner here.

By Ferry

You can also take the Marine Atlantic Ferry from Sydney, Nova Scotia to Port aux Basques, Newfoundland. This would allow you to bring your own vehicle and explore the province at your own pace.

There are different sailing times to choose from, and you can even opt for a cabin if you are travelling overnight. We would recommend booking your Ferry ticket in advance during high season, however, as it does get busy.

You can also travel to Newfoundland by ferry from Quebec. The Labrador Marine Services ferry is a shorter ride on a smaller boat, but you can still bring your car onboard.

The ferry sails from Blanc-Sablon, Quebec, which is right along the Labrador border, and takes you to St. Barbe, Newfoundland.

How to Get Around Newfoundland

Newfoundland is an absolutely huge province to traverse. And because many of the main attractions are so far apart, you really need a car if you are looking to explore outside of the major cities.

Whether you have your own vehicle, or you are renting, having access to a vehicle is the most convenient. We were able to explore some out-of-the-way locations and hidden gems that would not have been possible without a car.

If you will be staying within the bigger cities, public transportation is also an option. Busses to taxis will get you to the places that are too far to walk to.

Another option for travelling through Newfoundland would be to take a tour. There are several tour companies that will take you to some of the major attractions

🚗 Check rates and availability for rental cars in Newfoundland here.

Where to Stay in Newfoundland

Newfoundland has a pretty good selection of hotels to meet your needs and budget. If you are staying in larger cities, like St. John’s, you can expect to find many familiar chain hotels and a few awesome boutique hotels.

However, if you are planning to stay in some of the smaller communities, many will only have inns or motels. These will not be luxury hotels, but you can still expect them to be clean and comfortable.

🏨 Check rates and availability for Newfoundland hotels here.

Newfoundland with Kids – FAQs

Final Thoughts on Visiting Newfoundland with Kids

Newfoundland truly is a magical destination for families looking for outdoor fun and unforgettable memories. From the rugged coastlines and charming towns to icebergs, puffins and whales, this province will steal your heart and leave you longing for more.

So pack your bags, round up the kids, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime. We guarantee that with so many awesome things to do in Newfoundland with kids, you won’t be disappointed.

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