20 minute read
Miramichi Tourism Experiences
Activities & Attractions
FLETCHER’S FARM CORN MAZE
OVER THE COVE ZIP LINE
*Due to current Covid-19 situation, check out Over the Cove Facebook page for updates on opening. Over the Cove zip line is the City of Miramichi’s newest outdoor attraction and the longest zip line in the Maritimes. Come experience French Fort Cove from a breathtaking bird’s eye view as you soar from one side of the park to the other. The price per flight is $15.00 for individuals age 18 years and under or 55 years and older. $20.00 for everyone in between! Come try this new and exciting experience! French Fort Cove, King George Hwy.
www.miramichi.org/zipline | 506-251-1933
BEAUBEARS ISLAND INTERPRETIVE CENTRE
Under the leadership of Charles Deschamps de Boshebert, many Acadians found refuge on the Miramichi from 1759 to 1760. Beaubears Island was an integral and functional part of the early settlement that gives testimony to the Acadian experience. Beaubears Island is the only known undisturbed archeological site associated with national significance of the 19thcentury wooden-shipbuilding industry in New Brunswick. Hours of Operation – Wed – Sun: 10am – 4pm (May 31-Oct 2) Ferry Service to Beaubears Island daily 10 am – 4 pm (June 21- Oct 2). Guided Island Tour Daily 10 am – 4 pm (June 21 - Oct 2) “Tour Through Time” Sundays 2 pm (July 4 – Aug 29) 35 St. Patrick’s Drive. beaubearsisland.ca | 506-622-8526
MIRAMICHI RIVER BOAT TOURS
Don’t miss out on connecting with one of our Miramichi characters, the spontaneous colourful Acadian Captain, Azade Haché. Relax in comfort aboard the Max Aitken tour boat as Azade interprets the history of the river and its people. Fully certified, licensed and bilingual, the Max Aitken is Transport Canada approved. Ninety-minute tours depart Ritchie Wharf, Miramichi. In addition, evening cruises, special events and group rates are all part of the premiere services offered. Ritchie Wharf Park, 84 Nortons Lane
miramichiriverboattours.com | 506-623-9821
MIRAMICHI DRAGWAY INC
Miramichi Dragway Inc. is a 0.4-km (1/4-mi.) drag strip. Having the best traction in Eastern Canada starting with its 36.6-metres (400-foot) concrete launch pads, to a well-maintained asphalt track surface of 402.3 metres (1320 feet) and 670.6 metres (2200 feet) of shutdown area. 4 Perimeter Road. miramichidragwaypark.com | 506-624-7989
BEAUBEARS ISLAND INTERPRETIVE CENTRE
RITCHIE WHARF PARK
‘Shipbuilding’ is the theme of this charming, alluring public park. While this very waterfront was once a thriving shipbuilding industry, today it is a place where your children can be entertained in the nautically themed playground. They’ll love to frolic and get wet on the popular splash pad, then sit down for a scoop (or 3) of ice cream! You’ll appreciate the boardwalk’s quaint shops and restaurants. You can dock or launch your boat from Ritchie Wharf Park, or embark on an exciting boat tour or charter. Delight in live entertainment most evenings. Many special events happen throughout the summer! 84 Nortons Lane
miramichi.org | 1-800-459-3131 or 506-623-2158
FRENCH FORT COVE NATURE PARK
The home of the Headless Nun Adventure; open year round for family fun! Take pleasure in walking, hiking and biking trails, playground and boardwalk. View breath-taking scenery in the fall when the cove is ablaze with vibrant colours of red, yellow and orange.
King George Highway and Cove Road. miramichi.org | 1-866-990-9490
WATERFORD GREEN
Looking for spectacular sunset? Sit back and enjoy the view of the Miramichi River and the Centennial Bridge from the cantilevered boardwalk! Many of the city’s events and festivals take place at this multi-use park. Offering a playground for the kids and lots of opportunities for picturesque photos, including sharing a moment with Francis Peabody, the Founder of the former town of Chatham. Loggie Drive. miramichi.org | 1-800-459-3131 or 506-623-2300
FLETCHER’S FARM CORN MAZE
Can you solve our corn maze scavenger hunt? Try not to get lost as you navigate your way through our five-acre corn maze, searching for all 18 clue stations. Then head over to our petting farm to visit our alpacas, goats and potbelly pigs. Climb the hay bale pyramid and slide down the giant tube slides. Take a spin on the pedal karts. Play in the corn box or sit back and relax on a wagon ride. When your hunger strikes, grab a bite to eat at the food truck and find a picnic table to enjoy your meal while the kids run around and have an a-MAZEing time! And don’t forget, if you want those epic pictures, we have a sunflower field, with over 20,000 sunflowers, that comes into bloom each yer between the end of August to early September: 99 Rasche Street, Miramichi, NB phone: 506-627-1929
email: fletchersfarmfive@gmail.com website: fletchersfarm5.com
STOREYTOWN COTTAGES
COUNTRY HAVEN LODGE & COTTAGES
Feel the magic of the Miramichi with a guided canoe or kayak tour of our world-famous river. For a truly Miramichi authentic experience, cast your line and try to hook the king of fish; the mighty Miramichi Atlantic salmon! Relax overnight in one of our riverside log cabins gazing at the stars and sharing your day’s adventure with family and friends. 601 Route 118, Gray Rapids. vacationnewbrunswick.com | 1-877-359-4665/506-843-9010.
GALLAN’S MIRAMICHI RIVER TUBING
Take a tubing trip on a beautiful stretch of Main Southwest Miramichi River. Free on-site parking, wash/change rooms, a large variety of comfortable river tubes, easy free shuttle service to launch site from signup point, payment methods include cash, debit/credit card, and Apple Pay. First come first serve – no reservations needed. During tubing season, please check out our daily updates at facebook.com/gallanstubing.com. 48 Kersey Lane, Route 118
Hwy, Doyles Brook, NB Email: amy@miramichirivertubing.com | 506-622-3756
MIRAMICHI NORTHWEST LODGE
Prepare to be spoiled by the Miramichi Northwest Outfitters, offering salmon fishing as well as bear, woodcock and small game hunting. The traditional lodge faces the Northwest Miramichi river, featuring memorable gourmet cuisine. It’s the perfect place to reflect on your adventures of the day. Packages include lodging, fishing equipment (if required), transportation to and from the airport and an experienced guide. 90 Sorel Road, Wayerton.
506-773-4443 | miramichinorthwestlodge.com
MIRAMICHI SALMON CONSERVATION CENTRE
The Miramichi Salmon Conservation Centre (MSCC) is a major center for Atlantic salmon research. This oldest continually operating Atlantic salmon hatchery in North America, is located in South Esk, New Brunswick, 5 km (3.11 mi.) west of the City of Miramichi. The first buildings and ponds were constructed in 1873. Atlantic salmon eggs were collected for incubation that year. The MSCC has operated continuously since that time growing both speckled trout and Atlantic salmon. An educational must see.
485 Route 420, South Esk. salmoncentre.ca | 506-622-4000
STEWART’S TUBING
NELSON HOLLOW BRIDGE
The Nelson Hollow Bridge is believed to be the oldest covered bridge in New Brunswick and the only remaining covered bridge still standing in Northumberland County, it is located between Boiestown and Doaktown, over a small brook named “Mill Brook”. It is the only bridge in the province to have a cottage-style roof. The bridge was first constructed in 1870 and rebuilt in 1899. It is 24.5 m long and spans Betts Mill Brook, about 4 km west of Doaktown. In 1977 it was restored by the Doaktown Historical Society. The view is spectacular as you walk across this amazing structure and you might even steal a kiss.
Lyons Lane Route 8, Nelson Hollow
PRICEVILLE FOOTBRIDGE
The Priceville Footbridge is one of the great wonders of the Miramichi. Allow yourself to travel back through time on this suspension footbridge, which spans the mystical waters of the Miramichi River, joining the communities of Priceville and McNamee; commonly known as the “swinging” footbridge. On May 10, 1939, tragedy befell these communities when the Miramichi River was in full flood and the middle of the footbridge hung only a few inches above the water. The suspension bridge was caught by flowing ice and flipped over, breaking the supporting cables. Check out the rest of its history at the bridge.
Exit Route 8 at the Holt Road.
STEWART’S TUBING
Enjoy a lazy summer day of relaxation and fun for all ages (4 years old+). Drift on an inner tube down the Little Southwest Miramichi River at New Brunswick’s original tubing destination. PFD’s, parking and shuttle service provided with your tube rental. Convenience store, picnic area, changing and washroom facilities are all on site. Campground and cottages are within walking distance. 723 Back Rd., Lyttleton (Sunny Corner) stewartstubing.com | 506-836-7436
STOREYTOWN COTTAGES
Turn your stay into a getaway at our year round adventure destination! Enjoy five fullyequipped cottages and four riverfront suites all complete with firepits, BBQs & easy access to the beautiful Miramichi River. While you’re here enjoy swimming, tubing, kayaking, canoeing and stand-up paddle boarding. Our convenient shuttle service has you stepping off the river right back at your cottage! 439 Storeytown Road in Doaktown, off Route 8
storeytowncottages.com | 506-365-7636
KOUCHIBOUGUAC NATIONAL PARK
UPPER OXBOW OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
Let us be your guide to adventure. Begin your day of fishing with a stop at Upper Oxbow to be outfitted with your equipment. Meander over the hill to the salmon pool with your guide and cast your fly in anticipation of the salmon striking. Feel that unforgettable thrill of the take! After your fishing venture, have a ‘say’ on the porch as you await your hearty dinner. Upper Oxbow also offers canoeing and kayaking, as well as bear, moose, and upland bird hunting. The river-side lodge is an impressive spot for conferences, business meetings, corporate retreats and Christmas parties.
2260 Route 420, Sillikers. upperoxbow.com 1-888-227-6100 or 506-622-8834
VICKERS RIVER TUBING
Enjoy a lazy day on the Main South West Miramichi River in our modern comfortable tubes. Lots of wildlife and scenery on your route. Shuttle provided. Fun for the whole family.
906 Howard Rd, Blackville. 506-645-0061
BIRDWATCHING
The Tabusintac Lagoon and Estuary, a birdwatching paradise, has been designated an international wetland site by the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands. Its 4,100 ha (10,131 acres) attracts waterfowl such as scoters, common eiders, brants, scaups, common goldeneyes, ospreys, blue herons and mergansers. About 10 pair of the endangered piping plovers spend their summers on the Tabusintac beaches. Stop by the Tabusintac Lighthouse Interpretation Centre to pick up your map of local hot spots where you can observe a variety of waterfowl, birds and other wildlife. 506-779-9280
GORDON’S WHARF
A fun family activity is exploring the beach at Gordon’s Wharf, on the banks of the Miramichi River. Bring along a picnic, enjoy the shoreline and take in the charming surroundings. Recreational boaters have access to the slip, docks, and wharf during daylight hours. Canteen and public washrooms on site.
Gordon’s Wharf Road, Lower Newcastle. 506-627-9768
UPPER OXBOW OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
KOUCHIBOUGUAC NATIONAL PARK
Discover a National Park on New Brunswick’s Acadian Coast where lush mixed-wood forests lead to colourful salt marshes and warm ocean beaches. Offshore, golden sand dunes foster calm seas. At night, this Dark Sky Preserve is a celestial masterpiece; in winter, it is a snowbound fun-zone. And each of these natural wonders intertwines with fascinating Mi’kmaq and Acadian cultures. Be sure to stop at the park visitor centre to visit the exhibits. Take the family for an unforgettable camping adventure. Cycle along fantastic bicycle trails or walk along endless stretches of sand dunes. Interpretative programs are offered throughout the summer. A 3-hour Voyageur canoe adventure offers a close-up view of the Grey seal and Common tern colonies. Join an interpreter and enjoy amusing sketches at the outdoor theatre; experience Mi’kmaq culture or discover the park’s heritage during an evening program. Welcome to Kouchibouguac National Park—an awe-inspiring all-season destination.
186 Route 117, Kouchibouguac National Park. parkscanada.gc.ca/kouchibouguac 506-876-2443
KOUCHIBOUGUAC RESORT
Condo Chalets-Motel-Cottages-Restaurant. Nestled among the trees at the edge of the KOUCHIBOUGUAC NATIONAL PARK, the Kouchibouguac Resort connects you to the famous hiking and biking trails beginning from your room, and the sandy beaches of the National Park. Centrally located between Miramichi and Moncton, only minutes from Richibucto Wharf, Bonar Law Museum in Rexton and Pays de la Sagouine, and Irving Eco Centre in Bouctouche. Summer family activities include organized group tours, fishing boat tours, bicycle rentals, kayaking and canoeing, birdwatching, nature trails and guided bear watching in Acadieville. Winter fun activities for all include cross country skiing on 15 km well groomed trails with ski equipment rental at the Park, snowmobiling, snow shoeing and horse sleigh rides nearby. 10983 Route 134, Saint Louis. Year round. Kouch.com | 1-888-524-3200
MACEACHERN’S WHARF
Visit a working fishing wharf and chat with local fishermen about their trade.
Wishart Point Road, Tabusintac May to September
RICHIBUCTO RIVER WINE ESTATE
Plan a perfect afternoon with a tour of the vineyard, with “insider” access to the wine-making area followed by a sampling of 5 wines. Daily at 3 p.m.
940 Route 495, Mundleville. richibuctoriverwineestate.com 506-523-9056
TABUSINTAC
Tabusintac is a great place for your family vacation, a quiet weekened getaway, or a small business gathering. Enjoy our golf course, chalets, visit our marina and interpretive center. A highlight would be speaking to one of the local fisherman at MacEachern’s Wharf.
TABUSINTAC CHALETS
We have 16 fully equipped 2 bedroom cottages on the banks of the beautiful and pristine Tabusintac River. Tell us how you like to relax and we will create a vacation package your way! Enjoy boat tours, golf, bird watching at our Ramsar designated wetland site, kayaking, wagon rides, horseback riding and more. 1 Riverview Dr. Tabusintac
tabusintacchalets.com 1-888-550-2424 or 506-779-8222
Visit the unique lighthouse and climb to the top for a picturesque view of the Tabusintac River. Call 506-779-9280. Check us out on Facebook.
MIRAMICHI TREE HOUSE & CAMPING ADVENTURES
Imagine a camping experience where you sleep in the trees! No need to bring your tent because you’ll be staying in an eco-friendly treehouse. Set twelve feet off the ground, the treehouses feature impressive staircases, camp mattresses and some have washrooms and electricity! There are very cool large decks to relax on – with trees growing through them! Take advantage of the fire pit and picnic table, as well as the campground’s outdoor pool, playgrounds, fishing river and walking trails for your complete ‘wilderness getaway.’ So what are you waiting for? Stay high and dry and spend a night with the birds connecting with natural surroundings at Camping Miramichi. 116 North Black River Rd., Black River Bridge
campingmiramichi.com 506-773-6252
ESCUMINAC BEACH AND FAMILY PARK
Beautiful Escuminac Beach and Family Park offers fully serviced (water, hydro, grey/ black tank emptying service), and un-serviced campsites. Enjoy clean salt water, sandy beach, tenting area, hot showers, dumping station, picnic area, fire-pits & wood, children’s playground, pay phone, canteen, restrooms, change house, beach volleyball, horseshoe pits, and washer/dryer. 301 Escuminac Point Road, Escuminac.
escuminacbeach.com 1-877-228-4599/506-228-4532 (year-round)/ 506-228-3843 (winter)
POINTE-SAPIN BEACH
This quiet, unsupervised sandy beach is located along the Northumberland Strait. Experience the spectacular sunsets and watch the moon rise with the sound of the ocean waves in the background! Ideal for windsurfing.
Route 117, Pointe-Sapin 506-876-3302
A leisurely walk from downtown will find you in the charming Ritchie Wharf waterfront park.
From here you can hop on the Max Aitken for a guided river boat tour. Dockside you can meet locals or grab a bite overlooking the beautiful Miramichi River. Finish off with a tasty ice-cream treat and stroll along to take in the sights and sounds of summer.
●Ice-cream shop ●Gifts shop ●Restaurants ●Boat tours ●Kids Splash Pad
Free Entertainment every evening and Sunday afternoons Visit us dockside at Ritchie Wharf and you’ll see...
the river is just the beginning.
Cultural & Historic
CENTRAL NEW BRUNSWICK WOODMEN’S MUSEUM
BEAVERBROOK HISTORIC HOUSE
This historic second-empire style house built in 1877 is definitely worth a visit! Being the childhood home of Lord Beaverbrook, you will enjoy the carefully restored architecture, as you learn about the life of Max Aitken, Lord Beaverbrook, and the significant role he played in World War II. This delightful residence also served as the Old Manse Library, one of the first libraries in the area. Dr. Louise Manny was the head librarian, and founder of the Miramichi Folksong Festival. The building and its occupants have had an interesting and challenging history - a must see! 518 King George
Highway. beaverbrookhouse.com | 506-622-5572
CARREFOUR BEAUSOLEIL – GALERIE ARTcadienne/Théâtre Gilles Laplante
Go to the art gallery and discover the many cultural activities that take place in the Theatre Gilles LaPlante during the year and at our Acadian Festival. 300 Beaverbrook Road,
Carrefour Beausoleil Centre. carrefourbeausoleil.ca | 506-627-4125
W. S. LOGGIE HOUSE & CULTURAL CENTRE
This 18th-century unique Victorian home depicts the heritage and culture of the region. View artifacts from 1850 to 1900 and 2000, including an original World War I Victory flag. Take pleasure in the famous painting by H.W. Hoyt, “Portrait of Francis Peabody,” founder of Chatham, prominently displayed in the hall. The house tells the story of the Loggie family, general local merchants of the time. Reserve the house for meetings, craft sales, teas and social events. Guided tours available during the summer and by appointment in off season.
222 Wellington Street. July and August. 506-773-4996.
MIDDLE ISLAND IRISH HISTORICAL PARK
One of the most thought-provoking historical parks, Middle Island is located approximately 2 km east of the Historic Chatham Business District, accessible via a short causeway. Early records recount that the Island was known by the Mi’kmaq name, “Hiksenogowakun”, meaning place for sick people. It was also named Hospital Island in relation to its use as a quarantine station. In 1873, Middle Island was designated as the site for a permanent quarantine station, and remained so until 1948. A. D. Shirreff called it “Barrataria” when he established a fishing business there in 1827. 2345 Water Street.
middleislandmiramichi.com | 506-773-7505
ATLANTIC SALMON MUSEUM
MIRAMICHI HISTORY MUSEUM
Explore the natural and cultural history of the Miramichi in one of the most unique museums in New Brunswick. Originally founded in 1897, the Miramichi Natural History Museum houses artifacts from all over the world and the local area. Please see our Facebook page (Friends of the Miramichi History Museum) to stay up to date regarding our special events. 182 Wellington
Street | 506-778-4050 or 506-778-9106
WILSON’S POINT
This remarkable site is a must see! It is of great significance to the history of Miramichi, dedicated to the early Scottish settlers who established the first English-speaking settlement at Wilson’s Point in 1765. They also built St. James Presbyterian Church in 1790, the first Protestant Church in the area. The old Presbyterian Church graveyard has been preserved and headstones date back to the 1700s. Enjoy a replica of the original church that houses an interpretive centre as well as a traditional trading post. Davidson Makes a Point: On Sundays from 2-4 pm meet William Davidson himself and take a tour of the Point with the history given from his prospective. Enclosure Campground, in Derby Junction, junction of Routes 8
and 108 wilsonspoint.com | 506-622-0357
ATLANTIC SALMON MUSEUM
Centrally located between the cities of Fredericton and Miramichi and boasting scenic views of the beautiful Miramichi River, the Atlantic Salmon Museum provides an in-depth look at the Atlantic salmon and its importance to this part of New Brunswick and to the world beyond. In addition to our displays of over 3,000 artifacts, we offer a well-stocked gift shop featuring the best in “hard” ice cream (during the summer months), a small aquarium, and well-cared for grounds with plenty of picnic tables. With a little prior notice, we can also offer food and refreshments – everything from coffee and home-made doughnuts to a full-course meal, all served in our beautiful River Room. 263 Main Street, Doaktown.
atlanticsalmonmuseum.com | 506-365-7787
CENTRAL NEW BRUNSWICK WOODMEN’S MUSEUM
The moment you step onto the woodmen’s site you are immediately taken back to the time when “lumberjacks” were the “kings of the forest” and loggers filled our towns. You’ll be introduced to the tools of the lumberman’s trade such as the log yard, log drive, cork boots, and the mighty peavey and axe. The Cookhouse-Bunkhouse-Dingle and the Trapper’s Cabin bring to mind the tales of Peter Emberley, Anthony’s Boot, and Henry Braithwaite. Come journey back to the time when Boiestown was the bustling centre of the lumbering industry.
6342 Route 8, Boiestown. WoodmensMuseum.com | 506-369-7214
METEPENAGIAG HERITAGE PARK MACDONALD FARM HISTORIC SITE
DOAK HOUSE
The Doak Historic Site commemorates Scottish entrepreneur Robert Doak and his family who moved to the Upper Miramichi River area in the early 1820s. Here he established a carding mill, a grist mill and a sawmill as well as becoming heavily involved in the affairs of his adopted community. Such was the respect afforded “Squire” Doak by local residents that in 1854 when a new roadway was built linking the community with Fredericton and Newcastle, the village was renamed “Doaktown” in his honour. Visit the Doak House and note the architectural importance of its buildings and the richness of its original furniture preserved by several generations of the Doak Family. Come visit our new welcome centre; a replica of Squire Doak’s original barn, featuring a gift shop and artifacts from the community.
386 Main Street, Doaktown. atlanticsalmonmuseum.com/doak-house | 506-365-2026
METEPENAGIAG HERITAGE PARK
You will feel the ethnicity of two significant National Historical Sites in New Brunswick; Metepenagiag Mi’kmaq Nation, invites you to experience and learn 3000 years of history and culture in the making. We, the First Peoples of New Brunswick, will take you on a journey where you will view ancient artifacts, interactive displays, interpretative walking trails and 20-minute film in our 52-seat theatre. Also visit and shop for unique Indigenous art work in our gift shop. 2156 Micmac Road, Red Bank. metpark.ca | 1-888-380-3555
CANADA’S LARGEST SALMON FLY
The Village of Blackville is home to Canada’s largest Salmon Fly. The Veteran’s Fly, located at the corner of Main Street and South Bartholomew Road. Each color has a symbolic meaning to veterans: purple represents sorrow for the fallen soldiers; red and white for the Canadian flag; green for a soldiers uniform; gold for the medals awarded to a soldier; red for the petals of a poppy and black for the centre of a poppy. The Veteran’s Fly is a popular roadside attraction and charms curious tourists and locals alike throughout the year.
villageofblackville.com
ESCUMINAC WHARF
MACDONALD FARM HISTORIC SITE
The MacDonald Farm Historic Site, a must-see cultural attraction, is located in Bartibog, overlooking the Miramichi River. Take a horse drawn wagon to the impressive historic homestead and tour the fine stone house built in the Georgian tradition. Costumed guides will take you back to the 1820s, when the family of Scottish settler Alexander MacDonald helped to develop the area. Savour the smells of traditional foods cooked over an open fire, marvel at the embroidery and domestic crafts, observe gardening and the daily chores of caring for farm animals. Afternoons with Alexander, On Friday’s from 2-4 pm meet Alexander MacDonald and tour his namesake farm with him. 600 Route 11, Lower Newcastle. macdonaldfarm.ca |
506-778-6085
TABUSINTAC LIBRARY & MUSEUM
History enthusiasts will enjoy the Tabusintac Library & Museum. Providing the details of early life in the community, you will view the tools that early settlers used, books, census documents, clothing, genealogies, pictures and more. 4490 Route 11, Tabusintac. tabusintac.info
506-779-1918 (seasonal) or 506-625-2512
ESCUMINAC WHARF
Escuminac has the largest inshore working wharf in Canada, so a visit here will give you real insight into the lives of fishermen both past and present. It also has a story to tell of 35 fisherman from from local communities who were lost at sea in 1959 in what has become known as the “Escuminac Disaster” You may find fishermen working on their boats and they are happy to chat and share their love of fishing with you. Also visit the nearby monument dedicated to the lives of the fishermen lost in the tragedy.
POINTE-SAPIN LIGHTHOUSE (REAR RANGE)
This 1903 salt-shaker style lighthouse is located 8 km (5 mi.) north of Kouchibouguac National Park, on a very small parcel of land adjacent to residential properties. This lighthouse is operational and an active aid to navigation. For your enjoyment, there is a beach across the road with limited parking. 3273 Route 117 West