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The Ultimate List of 20 Must-Do Activities with Your Friends in Canada

Clever Canadian Written By: December 2024

Planning a hangout with my friends these days feels like trying to schedule a meeting with world leaders. The group chat is a mess of “Does this day work?” and “I can’t, I’ve got a dentist appointment.” 

So, when we finally manage to link up, we’re not just settling for brunch with cocktails—though let’s be real, we love that too. We’re talking about next-level outings that give us stories to laugh about later, like dog sledding in the Yukon or pretending to be zen during a silent spa day.

So, if you and your crew are overdue for an adventure, we’ve got you covered. From brewery tours to ziplining, here’s a list of the most epic things you can do with your friends in Canada—group chat approved. 

Outdoor Adventures

Banff National Park (Alberta)

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Address: Improvement District No. 9, AB T0L
Contact details: +1 403-762-1550
Opening hours: 24/7
Website

Banff National Park is one of those places that sticks with you. Picture this: the sparkling turquoise waters of Lake Louise and the jagged peaks of Moraine Lake—just unreal.

If you’re heading out with friends, there are many trails to explore. Johnston Canyon is a favourite for its waterfalls, and the views at the Plain of Six Glaciers hike will blow your mind. Feeling bold? Rent a canoe and glide across those glacier-fed lakes, or saddle up for a horseback ride into the quieter backcountry.

Winter here is a whole other vibe. Think skiing, snowshoeing, or even a horse-drawn sleigh ride through a snowy wonderland. Afterward, Banff town is the spot—good food, live music, and cozy little shops to wind down and make the day complete.

Pro tip:

Book accommodations and activities well in advance, especially during peak seasons like summer and winter holidays, as Banff is incredibly popular.

Whistler Blackcomb (British Columbia)

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Address: 4545 Blackcomb Way, Whistler
Contact details: +1 604-967-8950
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 8 AM – 4 PM
Website

Whistler Blackcomb isn’t just a ski resort—it’s an adventure lover’s dream, no matter when you visit. In the winter, skiing and snowboarding are unreal, with two massive mountains to explore. 

But that’s just the start. You can hop on a snowmobile for a guided tour or race your friends down the tubing hill. And don’t miss the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola. The views between Whistler and Blackcomb will blow you away. 

When summer rolls in, the vibe completely changes—but it’s just as epic. The mountain biking trails here are legendary, ziplining is a total rush, and if you’re into wildlife, the bear-spotting tours are incredible.

Pro tip:

If you’re planning to rent equipment for skiing or biking, reserve online to save time and money.

Canoeing in Algonquin Park – Algonquin Outfitters (Ontario)

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Address: JJPQ+7W, Algonquin Park
Contact details: +1 613-637-2075
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 7 AM – 6 PM (Schedule may vary with seasons)
Website

Few experiences are as peaceful and bonding as a canoeing trip in Algonquin Park. Algonquin Outfitters offers everything from guided tours to rental equipment, making it easy to tailor the adventure to your group’s skill level. 

As you paddle through the calm, pristine lakes, keep an eye out for moose grazing along the shoreline or the haunting call of a loon echoing across the water. For those feeling adventurous, an overnight camping trip lets you fully immerse in the park’s serene beauty—think stargazing around a campfire.

Even if you’re new to canoeing, the staff at Algonquin Outfitters will give you tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Pro tip:

Bring plenty of bug spray, especially in late spring and summer when mosquitoes are at their peak. Pack snacks and water in waterproof bags to stay fueled without worrying about spills.

Cultural and Artistic Experiences

Royal Ontario Museum (Toronto, Ontario)

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Address: 100 Queens Park, Toronto
Contact details: +1 416-586-8000
Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday: 10 AM – 5:30 PM
Website

Exploring the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) with friends feels like diving into a treasure trove of history, art, and science. Whether you’re marvelling at the age-old dinosaur fossils, wandering through ancient Egyptian galleries, or admiring contemporary art pieces, there’s something to capture everyone’s interest. 

The museum’s innovative architecture is a conversation starter, seamlessly blending the historic building with the modern “Crystal” addition. 

If you’re visiting in a group, consider joining a guided tour—it’s a great way to learn quirky facts and insider details. End your visit at the museum café or gift shop, where you can find cool souvenirs for the culture lover in your life.

Pro tip:

Plan your visit during weekdays or early mornings to avoid crowds and enjoy exhibits at a leisurely pace. 

Montreal’s Street Art Tour – Spade & Palacio (Quebec)

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Address: 3801 Saint Denis St b, Montreal
Contact details: +1 514-806-3263
Opening hours: 

  • Monday to Friday: 10 AM – 6 PM
  • Saturday to Sunday: 10 AM – 5 PM

Website

Montreal’s street art scene is like an open-air museum, and Spade & Palacio’s guided tour helps you discover its most vibrant corners. As you wander through colourful alleys and walls, the guides share behind-the-scenes stories about the artists, their techniques, and the cultural significance of their work. 

The tour goes beyond murals, touching on Montreal’s music, architecture, and grassroots movements that inspire these masterpieces. Along the way, you’ll stumble across trendy cafés and shops—perfect for pit stops with friends. 

It’s a fantastic way to see Montreal’s creativity in full bloom, especially in neighbourhoods like Plateau Mont-Royal and Mile-End.

Pro tip:

For art lovers, visiting during June’s MURAL Festival adds even more pieces to your street art adventure.

Stratford Festival (Ontario)

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Address: 55 Queen St, Stratford
Contact details: +1 800-567-1600
Opening hours: Depends on shows
Website

If you love live theatre, the Stratford Festival is an absolute must. Nestled in the picturesque town of Stratford, it’s where everything from Shakespeare’s classics to modern plays and musicals come to life in the most amazing way. 

The actors are incredible, the costumes are eye-catching, and the sets truly make you feel like you’re part of the story—it’s like a live movie happening right before your eyes.

And you don’t have to rush off after the show. Take some time to stroll along the Avon River, or pack a picnic and enjoy the peaceful vibe by the water. 

Pro tip:

For group discounts, check out matinee options, which are often more affordable than evening shows.

Food & Drink Experiences 

Mile-End & Old Montreal Food Tours (Quebec)

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Address: 5555 Av. de Gaspé #200, Montréal
Contact details: +1 438-600-0501
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 9 AM – 5 PM
Website

Embarking on a food tour in Montreal is like walking through a history book that you can taste. Mile-End and Old Montreal are two of the city’s most iconic neighbourhoods, each offering a mix of traditional and modern culinary delights. 

Picture starting with Montreal-style bagels, freshly baked and still warm, followed by decadent poutine loaded with cheese curds and gravy. Along the way, local guides share fascinating tidbits about the city’s cultural influences and the stories behind its iconic dishes. 

In Mile-End, you’ll explore quirky eateries and sample craft chocolates, while Old Montreal combines cobblestone streets with timeless recipes.

Pro tip:

Tours usually involve a lot of walking, so dress in layers and wear comfortable shoes. Skip a big breakfast—there’s plenty of food to enjoy, and you’ll want to save room for every bite.

Winery Tours of Niagara Falls (Ontario)

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Address: 6700 Fallsview Blvd, Niagara Falls
Contact details: +1 800-405-0670
Opening hours: 

  • Monday to Friday: 9 AM – 6 PM
  • Saturday to Sunday: 9 AM – 5 PM

Website

Niagara’s wine country is the perfect spot for a laid-back day with friends. You can take a guided winery tour through the vineyards, learning about how wine is made while tasting some amazing, award-winning wines along the way.

You’ve got to try the ice wine—it’s a regional specialty, and its sweet, rich flavour is unique. Some of the wineries even do food pairings or offer farm-to-table meals, so you can make the tasting into a full-on culinary experience.

As you hop between stops, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the Niagara Escarpment—definitely a great backdrop for group photos.

Pro tip:

Book a tour with transportation included so your group can fully enjoy the tastings without worrying about driving.

Vancouver Brewery Tours Inc. (British Columbia)

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Address: 8284 Sherbrooke St, Vancouver
Contact details: +1 778-320-3409
Opening hours: 

  • Monday to Friday: 9 AM – 5 PM
  • Saturday: 10 AM – 4 PM

Website

For craft beer enthusiasts, a Vancouver Brewery Tour is a fantastic way to explore the city’s vibrant brewing scene. Each stop introduces you to unique beers, from hazy IPAs to dark stouts, often paired with behind-the-scenes access to the brewing process. 

The tour guides are knowledgeable and passionate, turning the experience into more than just a tasting—it’s an education in craft beer culture. 

Many breweries are in funky neighbourhoods like Mount Pleasant, where street art and trendy eateries add to the experience. It’s the perfect blend of good drinks, great company, and local flavour.

Pro tip:

Check if the tour offers snacks or plan to grab a bite before heading out; beer tastings are best enjoyed on a full stomach.

Thrill-Seeking and Extreme Activities

Skydiving in Quebec City – Parachutisme Atmosphair (Quebec)

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Address: 438 Chem. Ville-Marie, Lévis, QC 
Contact details: +1 418-834-7272
Opening hours: 24/7
Website

If your group craves an adrenaline rush, skydiving over Quebec City with Parachutisme Atmosphair is a bucket-list-worthy adventure. Picture this: free-falling from 12,000 feet, the wind rushing past you as you take in breathtaking views of the St. 

Lawrence River and lush countryside below. The experienced instructors make tandem jumps feel safe and exhilarating, even for first-timers. 

After the parachute opens, the descent is surprisingly peaceful, giving you time to soak in the scenery. Back on solid ground, you’ll leave with high-fives all around and a story you’ll never stop telling.

Pro tip:

Wear snug, athletic clothing to ensure comfort during the jump. Bring a USB drive or purchase their photo and video package to capture every second of your adventure.

OWL Rafting on the Ottawa River (Ontario)

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Address: 40 owl Ln, Foresters Falls, ON
Contact details: +1 800-461-7238
Opening hours: Monday to Friday: 9 AM – 5 PM
Website

Get ready to paddle, laugh, and maybe scream a little with OWL Rafting on the Ottawa River. The Class III and IV rapids here are a wild ride—challenging, fun, and totally unforgettable.

Don’t worry, though. The guides are pros, keeping you safe while adding in some clever maneuvers and team challenges to make things even more exciting.

Once you’ve conquered the rapids, the fun doesn’t stop. OWL Rafting hooks you up with a tasty barbecue by the river—perfect for relaxing and swapping stories about the adventure you just had.

Pro tip:

Bring a change of clothes and a towel, as you’re guaranteed to get wet. If you wear glasses, make sure to secure them with a strap or leave them behind.

Grouse Mountain Zip Lines (British Columbia)

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Address: Grouse Mountain Lodge, North Vancouver
Contact details: +1 519-759-2650
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 10 AM – 5 PM
Website

Soaring high above the treetops on Grouse Mountain’s zip lines is an experience you’ll never forget. These five dual zip lines give you and your friends the chance to race through the air while enjoying jaw-dropping views of Vancouver, the Pacific Ocean, and dense forests. 

Each line gets progressively longer and faster, so the adrenaline keeps building as you go. Between zips, the knowledgeable guides share fun facts about the local ecology and history, adding a thoughtful touch to the adventure.

Pro tip:

Book in advance, especially during weekends or holidays, as slots fill up quickly. Wear snug shoes like sneakers, as flip-flops and sandals aren’t allowed on the course.

Urban Experiences and Nightlife

CN Tower EdgeWalk (Toronto, Ontario)

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Address: 290 Bremner Blvd, Toronto
Contact details: +1 416-601-3833
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 10 AM – 9 PM
Website

The CN Tower EdgeWalk is one of the coolest and most nerve-wracking things you can do with friends. You’ll be strapped into a harness and then step out onto a 1.5-meter-wide ledge, 356 meters above the ground, walking hands-free around the tower.

The guides are great—they make sure you’re safe but also encourage you to lean out over the edge and take in the insane views of Toronto.

It’s incredibly exhilarating, empowering, and surprisingly fun, especially with your friends there to cheer you on. And don’t worry, they snap photos and videos, so you’ve got proof of your epic bravery to look back on!

Pro tip:

Avoid wearing jewelry or loose clothing that could get in the way of the harness. Arrive 30 minutes early for orientation and to get suited up.

Kensington Market (Toronto, Ontario)

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Address:  Kensington Market, Toronto
Contact details: [email protected] 
Opening hours: 24/7
Website

Kensington Market is a neighbourhood that truly captures Toronto’s diversity. The narrow streets are packed with vintage shops, unique boutiques, and a mix of multicultural restaurants serving up flavours from all over the world.

You can spend hours hunting for handmade jewelry, grabbing a delicious Jamaican patty, or treating yourself to fresh churros from one of the many food stalls. Everywhere you turn, there’s something cool to discover.

The street art around the area adds to the vibe, making it a great spot to explore or snap some fun photos with friends. With live music, pop-up events, and an overall creative energy, every visit feels different and exciting.

Pro tip:

Visit on Pedestrian Sundays (last Sunday of the month, May to October), when the streets are closed to cars and filled with performers and vendors. Bring cash, as some smaller shops and stalls don’t accept cards.

Montreal’s Nightlife – Newspeak (Quebec)

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Address: 1403 Rue Sainte-Elisabeth, Montréal
Contact details: Instagram: @newspeakmtl
Opening hours: Wednesday to Saturday: 10 PM – 3 AM
Website

For an unforgettable night out with friends, Montreal’s vibrant nightlife scene delivers, and Newspeak is at the heart of it all. This intimate electronic music venue is known for hosting talented DJs from around the world. 

The industrial-chic space is designed for dancing, with stellar acoustics that make every beat pulse through the room. If electronic music isn’t your thing, the nearby Saint-Laurent Boulevard offers plenty of other bars, clubs, and live music spots to explore. 

Grab drinks, hit the dance floor, and let the night unfold—Montreal knows how to keep the energy alive until dawn.

Pro tip:

Check Newspeak’s event calendar ahead of time, as tickets often sell out for popular DJs. Consider using public transportation or ride-sharing for a hassle-free night out.

Winter Activities

Rideau Canal Skateway (Ottawa, Ontario)

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Address: 1 Elgin St, Ottawa
Contact details: +1 613-239-5000
Opening hours: 24/7
Website

Skating on the Rideau Canal is a must-try winter adventure, especially with friends. Spanning 7.8 kilometres through downtown Ottawa, it’s the world’s largest natural ice rink—and it’s as fun as it sounds.

You can rent skates on-site or bring your own, then hit the ice and glide past historic landmarks and cozy concession stands. Don’t skip the BeaverTail pastries—they’re a local favourite—and grab some hot chocolate to keep your hands warm.

Whether you’re racing each other or just taking it slow and enjoying the views, there’s something magical about skating on a frozen canal with the winter air all around you. It’s one of those experiences that feels so Canadian in the best way.

Pro tip:

Visit early in the morning or on weekdays to avoid crowds and get smoother ice conditions. Dress in layers to stay warm but avoid overheating while skating.

Dog Sledding in Yukon – Muktuk Adventures

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Address: Husky Trail, Whitehorse
Contact details: +1 867-668-3647
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 9 AM – 5 PM
Website

Dog sledding with Muktuk Adventures in Yukon is a bucket-list experience that connects you with nature in a profound way. After meeting the friendly huskies and learning the basics of mushing, your team will whisk you across snowy trails surrounded by breathtaking wilderness. 

The guides are deeply knowledgeable, sharing stories about the history of dog sledding and the bond between mushers and their dogs. 

You can choose between short rides or multi-day expeditions, which include cozy evenings in rustic cabins. It’s an experience that combines adventure, teamwork, and pure joy. 

Pro tip:

Book well in advance, especially during the peak aurora-viewing season. Wear insulated boots and gloves, as the wind chill on the sled can be intense.

Snowshoeing in Jasper – Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge (Alberta)

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Address: 1 Old Lodge Rd, Jasper
Contact details: +1 780-852-3301
Opening hours: 24/7
Website

Snowshoeing at the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge is a serene way to explore the beauty of the Canadian Rockies in winter. With trails winding through pristine forests and alongside frozen lakes, it’s an activity that’s as peaceful as it is invigorating. 

Rent snowshoes on-site or join one of the lodge’s guided tours, which include insights into local wildlife and geology. After your trek, the lodge offers plenty of cozy spots to warm up, including a lakeside fire pit and a luxurious spa. 

Pro tip:

Check the trail conditions before heading out, as snowfall can vary. Bring a small thermos of hot tea or coffee to enjoy along the way—it’s a game changer on chilly days.

Relaxing Retreats and Wellness

Scandinave Spa Blue Mountain (Ontario)

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Address: ON, 152 Grey Road 21, The Blue Mountains
Contact details: +1 877-988-8484
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 9 AM – 9 PM
Website

The Scandinave Spa at Blue Mountain is the perfect place to escape and relax with friends. Set in a beautiful outdoor setting, it’s all about the Scandinavian hydrotherapy experience—rotating between hot baths, cold plunges, and quiet relaxation areas surrounded by nature.

If you really want to treat yourself, add a massage to the mix. The spa’s silence policy might feel a little different at first, but it honestly makes everything so much calmer—it’s the perfect way to unwind after skiing, hiking, or just a busy week.

Picture soaking in a hot tub surrounded by trees or kicking back by the fire. It’s so peaceful, and it feels like you’re a world away from everyday life.

Pro tip:

Arrive early to secure your spot, as the spa operates on a first-come, first-served basis. 

Nordik Spa-Nature (Quebec)

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Address: 16 Chem. Nordik, Chelsea
Contact details: +1 819-827-1111
Opening hours: 

  • Monday to Thursday: 9 AM – 11 PM
  • Friday to Sunday: 8:30 AM – 12 AM

Website

Tucked away in the hills of Chelsea, Nordik Spa-Nature is the ultimate spot for a group escape. The place is huge, with thermal baths, saunas, and cozy relaxation areas all surrounded by stunning forest views—it feels like a little slice of paradise.

If you’re up for something different, try the Källa treatment. It’s a saltwater floating pool that makes you feel weightless, just like the Dead Sea. Between treatments, you can grab a gourmet meal at the on-site restaurant, which is perfect for unwinding and catching up with friends.

Pro tip:

Weekdays are quieter and often cheaper than weekends, offering a more serene experience. Pack a bathing suit and robe—though rentals are available, bringing your own saves time and money.

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