These I’d heard of.
But Moncton with kids?
Where the heck is Moncton?
Even leading up to our stay in Moncton, New Brunswick, I honestly didn’t know much about it. It wasn’t one of those Canadian cities that had been floating around in my travel brain for years, waving its little maple leaf and demanding a spot on the itinerary.
We had accepted a housesitting assignment from Trusted Housesitters in Moncton for two very practical reasons.
It was near Nova Scotia, where we wanted to visit.
And it was for longer than two weeks, which meant one glorious thing for our travelling family: a proper break.
A pause.
A chance to unpack more than one layer of a suitcase.
And, as it turned out, Moncton became one of those surprising little travel gems that sneaks up on you. The kind of place you arrive in thinking, “Sure, this will be a good base,” and leave thinking, “Actually, I’d come back here in a heartbeat.”
If you are looking for things to do in Moncton with kids, family day trips from Moncton, or a friendly base for exploring New Brunswick, the Bay of Fundy, Prince Edward Island, and even Nova Scotia, Moncton deserves a much bigger place on your Canada travel radar.
Where Is Moncton, New Brunswick?
Moncton lies in south-eastern New Brunswick in Canada’s Maritime Provinces. New Brunswick is Canada’s only officially bilingual province, with both English and French recognised as official languages, which adds another lovely layer to travelling here.
Moncton sits in a very handy location for family travel. It is close to Acadian coastal towns, beaches, the famous Bay of Fundy tides, Hopewell Rocks, Fundy National Park, Shediac, and plenty of easy road trip stops.
The city itself has grown quite a lot since our original visit. Greater Moncton is now one of the biggest and fastest-growing urban areas in New Brunswick, but it still manages to keep that friendly, small-town feel with the conveniences of a larger city.
And that is exactly the kind of travel combination I love.
Big enough to have things to do.
Small enough that I don’t feel like I need a nap and a spreadsheet just to leave the house.
Quick Guide To Moncton With Kids
If you are planning a family trip to Moncton, here is the quick version before I start rambling about doorbell-ringing dogs, barking parrots, BBQ ribs, and why I now fully understand the nickname “Hub City.”
Best time to visit Moncton with kids:
Summer is the easiest time to visit Moncton with kids because Magic Mountain, festivals, summer camps, outdoor attractions, and day trips are all in full swing. Late June, July, and August are ideal if you want waterparks, warm weather, Canada Day celebrations, Ribfest, and easy access to nearby beaches and the Bay of Fundy.
How many days do you need in Moncton?
You can see the main Moncton attractions in one or two days, but I’d recommend three days or more if you want to use Moncton as a family-friendly base for day trips to Hopewell Rocks, Shediac, Fundy National Park, Prince Edward Island, or Nova Scotia.
Best area to stay in Moncton with kids:
Stay near Magnetic Hill if you want easy access to Magic Mountain, Magnetic Hill Zoo, and the city’s best-known family attractions. Stay downtown if you prefer restaurants, events, the riverfront, the Moncton Market, and easy access to food stops. For road trips, choose somewhere with easy highway access so you are not constantly doing the “everyone get back in the car” routine.
Best day trip from Moncton with kids:
Hopewell Rocks is the big one. It is one of the best day trips from Moncton and gives kids the chance to walk on the ocean floor at low tide. Just check the tide times before you go, because the Bay of Fundy does not adjust itself around your snack schedule.
Best rainy-day activity in Moncton:
Resurgo Place is one of the best rainy-day things to do in Moncton with kids. It is indoors, interactive, educational, and much better than everyone staring at each other in a hotel room wondering who touched who first.
Why Visit Moncton With Kids?
Before we arrived, I didn’t know Moncton was such a great family destination.
I knew it was a useful base.
I knew it was in New Brunswick.
I knew we had pets to look after and a bed waiting for us, which is honestly sometimes all you need to make a place sound appealing after long-term travel with kids.
But Moncton with kids turned out to be so much better than expected.
There are waterparks, parks, museums, a zoo, summer festivals, food tours, family-friendly restaurants, riverside walks, day trips, and enough easy activities to keep everyone busy without turning the trip into a military operation.
And if you are travelling with kids, you know that easy matters.
Easy parking.
Easy food.
Easy day trips.
Easy ways to burn off energy before bedtime.
Moncton delivered.
Where We Stayed In Moncton
When we arrived at our Moncton housesit, we were a little gob-smacked.
In a good way.
A very good way.
We pulled up to a beautifully renovated 100-year-old home on a large block of land. It felt like we were living out in the country, with space, trees, fresh air, and that dreamy “could I live here?” feeling that always gets me into trouble on real estate websites.
And yet, at the bottom of the hill was a brightly lit McDonald’s.
Not much further away, there was a Walmart Supercentre.
And two cinemas to choose from.
Country feel. City conveniences. Fast food emergency backup.
Moncton was already winning.
Our house was located on Magnetic Hill, which is one of the most famous Moncton attractions and one of the best-known things to do in Moncton, New Brunswick.
Magnetic Hill Moncton: The Famous Optical Illusion
Magnetic Hill is a gravity hill optical illusion. The local topography makes it look like you are rolling uphill when you are actually rolling downhill.
In other words, your brain gets tricked, your car appears to defy logic, and everyone in the vehicle suddenly becomes a scientist.
Or, in our case, a loud backseat commentator.
Magnetic Hill is one of those classic family-friendly things to do in Moncton because it is quick, quirky, and just weird enough to entertain kids and adults.
You can also find several major Moncton family attractions around Magnetic Hill, including Magnetic Hill Zoo, Magic Mountain, mini golf, and other seasonal activities.
Yes, we had a waterpark literally on the same street.
This is the sort of travel planning I like to pretend was intentional.
How long to spend:
Magnetic Hill itself is a quick stop. Allow around 20 to 30 minutes, longer if you want to take photos or combine it with other Magnetic Hill attractions nearby.
Parking:
Parking is usually straightforward around the Magnetic Hill attraction area, especially compared with downtown Moncton during events. It is one of the easier family stops if you are travelling by car.
Stroller friendliness:
Magnetic Hill is more of a drive-through optical illusion than a walking attraction, so you won’t need a stroller for the main experience.
Toilets:
Use nearby attractions, restaurants, or visitor facilities in the Magnetic Hill area rather than relying on this as a long standalone stop.
Food options:
There are food options in the broader Magnetic Hill area, especially around the family attractions, but I’d still pack snacks if you are travelling with kids. I say this as someone who believes snacks are less of a food group and more of a parenting survival strategy.
Our Moncton Housesit Came With Very Entertaining Pets
Our Moncton housesit came with a dog that rang the doorbell when he needed to go outside for wees.
Yes, really.
A doorbell-ringing dog.
There was also an African parrot, which barked more than the dog, and two cats that mostly took care of themselves in that very superior cat way.
It was so nice to have pets that were so well trained, although I do feel like the parrot may have been quietly judging us the entire time.
Most of the time, we stayed home talking to the parrot and playing with the dog. And honestly, after a long stretch of family travel, that was just what we needed.
But we also discovered there were far more things to do in Moncton with kids than I had expected.
Best Things To Do In Moncton With Kids
Moncton is not the kind of place that screams at you from glossy Canada travel brochures in the way Vancouver, Toronto, or Banff might.
But that is exactly why it surprised me.
It is practical, friendly, fun, and full of easy family travel moments. It also makes a great base for exploring New Brunswick and the surrounding Maritime Provinces.
Here are the best things we did in Moncton with kids, along with the family-friendly attractions I’d add to your Moncton itinerary.
Becoming Newspaper Stars In Downtown Moncton
During our first few days in town, we were contacted by a journalist who asked if we could be featured in the local paper, the Times & Transcript.
So off we went into the Moncton city centre for a photo shoot and interview.
As you do.
One minute you are trying to work out where the supermarket is, the next you are posing for the local newspaper like you know exactly what you are doing with your life.
Travel is weird and wonderful like that.
It was such a fun introduction to the city and another reminder that Moncton has that friendly, community feel that makes it easy to settle in, even if you are only there temporarily.
Ribfest Moncton: BBQ, Ribs And A Very Full Family
While we were in town, the famous annual Ribfest Moncton was on.
And there is very little our family enjoys more than BBQ ribs.
They were so good we visited twice.
Our favourite ribbers happened to be from Alabama, USA, which felt wonderfully international for a festival in downtown Moncton.
At the time, a full rack with a few sides was enough to fill our family from one serving, which is my kind of holiday maths.
One rack.
Many humans.
Everyone happy.
Ribfest Moncton continues to be a big summer event in the city, usually bringing BBQ vendors, entertainment, and a proper festival atmosphere to the downtown riverfront area. If your Moncton trip lines up with Ribfest, it is absolutely worth adding to your itinerary.
Tip For Parking In Downtown Moncton During Events
Parking in town can be tricky during big events, but we found the side streets with meters were our best bet.
Do not park in random parking yards with open boom gates.
Learn from me.
When we came back to our car, the gate was closed and we had to do a sneaky lift-and-run situation that I do not recommend as a formal travel strategy.
Was it effective?
Yes.
Was it elegant?
Absolutely not.
Canada Day In Moncton With Kids
Much like our time on Perth’s foreshore celebrating Australia Day, Moncton celebrates Canada Day on its riverfront.
We went down to have a little look around, soak up the atmosphere, and enjoy the community celebrations.
The only problem?
The sun was setting well past 9:30pm.
Our little ones had no chance of making it to the 10pm fireworks.
Honestly, neither did I.
So we celebrated back at home instead, because sometimes family travel means choosing sleep over fireworks and being very proud of your responsible adult decision.
Canada Day in Moncton is still one of the city’s big family-friendly summer events, with riverfront entertainment, food, music, and fireworks. If you are visiting Moncton with kids in late June or early July, it is worth checking what is happening around Riverfront Park.
Summer Camps In Moncton For Kids
Since we were in Moncton for two weeks, we enrolled Mia and Caius in two different summer camps.
One was a swim camp run by YMCA.
The other was a science rocket camp run by a local church.
Both camps were around CA$150 per week per child at the time of our visit. These days, summer camp prices in Moncton vary depending on the provider, program, and week, so you will want to check directly with the YMCA of Greater Moncton and local organisations before booking.
The kids had to bring their own food, but outings to splash pads and museums were included.
And they had a blast.
Literally.
Rocket camp will do that.
We don’t really have summer camps in Australia in the same way, apart from the annual school camp, so this was a great learning experience for Mia and Caius.
They definitely wanted to go again.
For travelling families, summer camps can be such a brilliant option if you are staying in one place for a couple of weeks. The kids make friends, try something new, and you get a few precious hours to work, breathe, drink a coffee while it is hot, or stare into space like a person who has remembered silence exists.
Meeting The Friendliest People In Moncton
Everywhere we went, people in Moncton were downright friendly.
From the summer camp leaders to the newspaper staff, all the way to the dentist.
Yes, even the dentist.
We managed to find a day to visit the dentist, which often doesn’t fit neatly into our busy travel life. While we were there, I got chatting to the receptionist and she invited us to dinner at her house the very next night.
That is Moncton for you.
Turns out, they were friends with some good travel buddies of ours. You might have heard of them: The Planet D.
And they also cooked a real mean BBQ.
Plus, they had a yurt.
People with yurts are so cool.
I don’t make the rules.
Visiting The Dentist In Moncton
That’s right.
The house we were staying at happened to belong to the girlfriend of a dentist.
With a few sudden toothaches in the family, we took the kids to see Dr Joe.
He did a great job and recommended a children’s specialist dentist for our terrified children.
I have to say, the children’s dentist in Moncton was the best we had been to from the UK to Croatia to Australia. I’m pretty sure he may have cured Mia and Caius a tiny bit from their dental fears.
Plus, he saved a few teeth that needed rescuing.
The emergency dental work was covered by our wonderful travel insurance provider. Travel insurance always comes in handy, especially when your glamorous world travel life suddenly involves molars.
Thanks, Travel Insurance Direct.
Moncton Food Tour: A Delicious Way To Explore The City
One day, while Mia and Caius were in summer camp, I took a few hours out of our busy workdays to check out some of the delicious food spots in Moncton that draw the crowds.
We joined a 3-hour Hidden Gems of Foodies tour through Taste This.
We met at a central location in the city and started a progressive meal, with our guide sharing details about historic locations around Moncton as we walked.
I love food tours.
You get a walking tour.
You get local history.
You get someone else making all the food decisions.
And then you get fed.
This is peak travel efficiency.
We tried everything from fine dining to a gluten-free pub, authentic Neapolitan pizza, and even a bar called The Laundromat.
Do not bring your dirty laundry here.
I also tried mussels for the first time, which felt very East Coast Canada of me.
If you are looking for things to do in Moncton for adults while the kids are occupied, or you have older kids who love trying new foods, a Moncton food tour is a brilliant way to get to know the city.
Where To Eat In Moncton: Tide And Boar Gastropub
After seeing the famous Tide and Boar Gastropub on the Food Network, we just had to go.
We ordered the famous and totally delicious boar poutine.
And I opted for the irresistible polenta fries.
O.M.G.
This is where Moncton started to become less of a “handy housesitting base” and more of a “why didn’t anyone tell me the food was this good?” destination.
If you are planning a Moncton travel guide or Moncton itinerary with kids, make sure you leave room for food stops. Between festivals, downtown restaurants, pubs, cafes, and easy family-friendly meals, Moncton surprised us in the best possible way.
Magic Mountain Moncton With Kids
On our last day in Moncton, when Mia and Caius had finally finished summer camp, we took them to Magic Mountain Water Park.
It is a neat little park for a city this size, although “little” might be unfair because it got busy.
Golly.
I think half the city and surrounding area was there. It must be the what to do in Moncton.
We spent the day with the friends I had met at the dentist, because apparently in Moncton you go for dental care and leave with social plans.
Magic Mountain is one of the most popular family attractions in Moncton, especially during summer. It is located in the Magnetic Hill area, close to Magnetic Hill Zoo and other family-friendly activities.
The lazy river left a little to be desired. There were mostly concrete walls to look at, unlike our beloved Waterbom, which has ruined me for lazy rivers forever.
But we could not drag Mia and Caius away from the wave pool.
Kids under a certain height had to wear life jackets, which I thought was a little overzealous since Caius had been swimming strongly for three years, but I guess Canadians don’t muck around with water safety.
I loved the shade cloths around the park. There was plenty of much-needed shade on a sunny day, and we were allowed to bring our own food into the park, which was a huge bonus.
Current planning note: Magic Mountain usually requires online tickets and date reservations, especially during busy periods. If you are travelling from out of town, book ahead rather than just turning up and hoping for the best.
Hope is not a ticketing strategy.
How long to spend:
Allow at least half a day for Magic Mountain Water Park. If your kids love wave pools and waterslides, you could easily spend most of the day here.
Parking:
There is onsite parking, but it can get busy on hot summer days, weekends, and school holidays. Arrive early if you want to avoid circling the car park while everyone in the backseat asks if you are there yet.
Stroller friendliness:
A stroller can be useful for younger kids, especially if you need somewhere to stash towels, spare clothes, snacks, sunscreen, and the seventeen other things that somehow come with a family waterpark day.
Toilets and change rooms:
There are toilets and change room facilities onsite, which makes it much easier for families spending several hours at the park.
Food options:
Check the current food rules before you visit, but when we went, we were allowed to bring our own food into the park, which was a huge bonus. There are usually food options onsite, but packing your own snacks and water can make the day much easier and cheaper.
Family tip:
Bring sunscreen, hats, towels, water bottles, and a change of clothes. I also loved the shade cloths around the park because sunny waterpark days and small children can turn into crispy chaos very quickly.
Magnetic Hill Zoo With Kids
We did not spend a full day at Magnetic Hill Zoo during this stay, but it is one of the biggest family attractions in Moncton and sits right in the Magnetic Hill area.
If you are planning a Moncton with kids itinerary, this is one to consider, especially if your children love animals.
The zoo is open seasonally throughout much of the year, with longer hours in summer. Current ticket prices vary by date and age, so check the official Magnetic Hill Zoo website before you go.
A good family day around Magnetic Hill could include the zoo, Magic Mountain, Magnetic Hill itself, and a casual meal nearby.
Would everyone sleep well afterwards?
Yes.
Would you also sleep well afterwards?
Also yes.
How long to spend:
Allow two to three hours for Magnetic Hill Zoo, depending on your children’s ages and how slowly they like to move between animals. If your kids are animal lovers, you may want to allow a little longer.
Parking:
Parking is available onsite, making it a fairly easy family attraction if you have a car.
Stroller friendliness:
Magnetic Hill Zoo is generally a good attraction for families with younger children, and a stroller can be useful if you are visiting with toddlers or little legs that suddenly stop working halfway through the day.
Toilets:
Toilets are available onsite, which is always one of those details you don’t think about until someone urgently needs one.
Food options:
There are usually seasonal food options available, but it is worth checking before you go. I’d still bring water and snacks, especially if you are visiting with kids who believe hunger is a dramatic emergency.
Family tip:
Magnetic Hill Zoo pairs well with other nearby attractions, so you could build a full family day around Magnetic Hill, the zoo, and Magic Mountain if everyone has the energy.
Resurgo Place: A Rainy-Day Thing To Do In Moncton With Kids
If you are looking for rainy-day things to do in Moncton with kids, add Resurgo Place to your list.
Resurgo Place is home to the Moncton Museum and the Transportation Discovery Centre, with interactive exhibits and local history. It is a good option for families because it gives kids something hands-on to do while adults get a better sense of Moncton’s story.
And when you are travelling with kids, anything that is indoors, educational, and doesn’t involve chasing someone through a gift shop is worth knowing about.
This is also a useful attraction to include in a family travel guide to Moncton because not every day in New Brunswick is sunshine and waterparks.
Sometimes you need a plan B.
Preferably one with toilets, heating or air-conditioning, and exhibits that distract children long enough for you to read a plaque.
How long to spend:
Allow one to two hours at Resurgo Place. It is a great shorter activity for a rainy day, a quieter morning, or a break between bigger outdoor attractions.
Parking:
There is parking nearby, but because it is closer to downtown Moncton, allow a little extra time compared with the Magnetic Hill attractions.
Stroller friendliness:
Resurgo Place is a good option for younger families because it is indoors and manageable. A stroller is useful if you have little ones, although older kids will probably want to explore the interactive exhibits on foot.
Toilets:
Toilets are available onsite, which makes it a practical rainy-day stop with kids.
Food options:
Resurgo Place itself is more of an activity stop than a food destination, but you are close enough to downtown Moncton restaurants and cafes to pair it with lunch or a snack afterwards.
Family tip:
This is one of the best rainy-day things to do in Moncton with kids because it gives everyone something to do without needing perfect weather, waterproof jackets, or parental enthusiasm for standing in drizzle.
Moncton Tidal Bore: A Quick And Quirky Stop
The Moncton Tidal Bore is another classic thing to do in Moncton.
The Bay of Fundy tides are famous for being the highest tides in the world, and the tidal bore is part of that powerful natural system. In Moncton, you can watch the incoming tide push a wave of water up the Petitcodiac River.
It is not necessarily an all-day activity.
It is more of a “let’s time this properly and go see something unusual” stop.
But that is exactly why it works well with kids.
Short.
Interesting.
A little bit muddy and science-y.
And then everyone can move on before anyone asks for snacks for the fifth time.
How long to spend:
The Tidal Bore is a short stop, but timing matters. Allow around 30 minutes so you can arrive early, find a good viewing spot, and actually see the incoming tide.
Parking:
Parking depends on where you choose to watch from along the riverfront. Give yourself extra time so you are not trying to find a spot while the tide is already doing its thing.
Stroller friendliness:
The riverfront area is generally suitable for a stroller, especially if you are walking along the paved paths.
Toilets:
Toilet access will depend on where you are watching from, so plan ahead if you have young kids. This is not the time to discover someone needs a bathroom immediately.
Food options:
There are food options in downtown Moncton nearby, so the Tidal Bore works well before or after a meal, coffee stop, or market visit.
Family tip:
Check the Tidal Bore schedule before you go. This is a natural event, not a theme park show, and it does not wait because someone forgot their jumper in the car.
Irishtown Nature Park And Outdoor Things To Do In Moncton
If you need free things to do in Moncton with kids, parks and nature trails are your friend.
Irishtown Nature Park is one of the largest urban parks in the area and a great place to let kids burn off energy. There are trails, forest, water views, and room to move.
This is the kind of stop I like to add between bigger paid attractions because family travel budgets are not imaginary.
Waterparks, zoos, food tours, and day trips all add up.
A walk in a park?
Beautiful.
Free.
No one tries to sell your child a plush toy at the exit.
How long to spend:
Allow one to two hours at Irishtown Nature Park, depending on how far you want to walk and how much energy your kids need to burn.
Parking:
Parking is available, making it an easy free activity if you have a car.
Stroller friendliness:
Some paths may be suitable for sturdy strollers, but if you have a baby or toddler, a carrier may be easier for longer walks or uneven sections.
Toilets:
Check facilities before you set off on longer trails, especially with younger kids. Nature parks are beautiful, but they are not always convenient when someone suddenly announces an emergency.
Food options:
Bring your own snacks and water. Irishtown Nature Park is more of a nature stop than a food stop, which makes it great for a picnic if the weather is nice.
Family tip:
This is one of the best free things to do in Moncton with kids and a good way to balance out paid attractions like Magic Mountain and Magnetic Hill Zoo.
Moncton Market And Downtown Moncton
Downtown Moncton is also worth exploring, especially if you are visiting on a Saturday when the Moncton Market is open.
Markets are always a good way to get a feel for a city. You can try local food, pick up snacks, browse handmade products, and let the kids choose something small without committing to a full attraction.
Downtown Moncton also gives you easy access to the riverfront area, restaurants, events, and festivals.
If you are creating a weekend in Moncton itinerary, I would include the market, the riverfront, a food stop, and one bigger family attraction in the same day.
How long to spend:
Allow one to two hours for the Moncton Market, depending on whether you are just browsing or turning it into breakfast, lunch, and snack research. I support snack research.
Parking:
Downtown parking can be busier during markets, festivals, and events, so arrive early or be prepared to use side-street parking. We had the best luck with metered side streets during busy events.
Stroller friendliness:
The market and downtown area are manageable with a stroller, although crowds can make it slower during peak times.
Toilets:
Toilets are usually easier to find around public venues, cafes, and restaurants downtown, but it is always worth using them when you see them. This is one of my deeply unglamorous but very practical family travel rules.
Food options:
This is one of the best places in Moncton to find food options, especially if you like markets, cafes, casual meals, and local treats.
Family tip:
Markets are perfect with kids because everyone can choose something different. It is also a great way to get a feel for the city without committing to a full-day attraction.
Best Day Trips From Moncton With Kids
There are plenty of places to visit from Moncton, which is why it is often called Hub City.
And once you stay there, the nickname makes perfect sense.
Moncton is a hub for so many family day trips in New Brunswick and beyond.
You can head to the Giant Lobster in Shediac, watch the world’s highest tides near Hopewell Rocks and the Bay of Fundy, visit Anne of Green Gables Heritage Place on Prince Edward Island, or brave a trip to Nova Scotia.
There is a reason Moncton makes such a good base.
It sits right in the middle of the kind of Eastern Canada road trip where you keep saying, “Oh, that’s not too far,” and then suddenly you have planned twelve day trips and need a nap.
Shediac From Moncton: The Giant Lobster And Easy Coastal Fun
Shediac is a really easy drive in the surrounding areas from Moncton.
It is about half an hour down the road and is known as the Lobster Capital of the World.
I must admit, I wasn’t a raving fan of the famous lobster roll.
I know.
I’m sorry.
Please don’t revoke my Northeast Coast travel card.
But the world’s largest lobster tickled me pink.
It is a concrete and reinforced steel statue over 11 metres long and 5 metres tall. It also weighs around 90 tonnes and receives a huge number of visitors each year.
It is big.
It is ridiculous.
It is exactly the sort of roadside attraction I will happily detour for.
Shediac is a great family day trip from Moncton if you want beaches, seafood, coastal scenery, and a quick photo stop with a giant crustacean.
And really, who doesn’t?
How long to spend:
Allow half a day for a relaxed Shediac day trip from Moncton. You can do the giant lobster as a quick photo stop, but it is much nicer if you leave time for a beach, seafood, or a wander around town.
Parking:
Parking is generally manageable, although it can get busier in summer and around popular beach areas.
Stroller friendliness:
The giant lobster area is easy enough with a stroller, and the town itself is manageable for families. Beach areas may be trickier depending on where you go.
Toilets:
Public toilet access varies by location, so use facilities when you see them, especially around beaches, visitor areas, or restaurants.
Food options:
Shediac is known for lobster and seafood, so this is a great food-focused day trip from Moncton. Even if, like me, you are not a raving lobster roll fan, it is still worth going for the giant lobster alone.
Family tip:
Shediac is an easy coastal escape from Moncton and works well if you want a low-stress day trip that does not involve too much driving.
Hopewell Rocks From Moncton
Hopewell Rocks is one of the best day trips from Moncton and one of the most iconic places to visit in New Brunswick.
This is where you can walk on the ocean floor at low tide and then watch the Bay of Fundy high tides come rushing back in.
It is muddy.
It is dramatic.
It is very much worth it.
If you are visiting Moncton with kids, Hopewell Rocks is one of those day trips that feels educational without being boring. The kids can see the tides, walk among the flowerpot rocks, and experience one of Canada’s most impressive natural wonders.
Just check the tide times before you go.
This is not a “wing it and hope the ocean cooperates” kind of destination.
You can read more about our Hopewell Rocks and Bay of Fundy day trip in my full guide.
How long to spend:
Allow at least half a day for Hopewell Rocks from Moncton. You need to plan around the tide times, and you will want enough time to walk on the ocean floor, take photos, explore, and avoid rushing the whole experience.
Parking:
There is parking onsite, but it can be busy during peak summer travel times. Arrive early if you are visiting during school holidays or around the best low tide window.
Stroller friendliness:
Hopewell Rocks involves stairs and uneven ground, especially if you are heading down to the ocean floor. A stroller may be useful in some upper areas, but a baby carrier is much easier if you have little ones.
Toilets:
Toilets are available at the visitor facilities, so make sure everyone goes before heading down to the rocks. This is not the place you want to climb back up in a hurry because someone suddenly needs the bathroom.
Food options:
There are visitor facilities and food options seasonally, but I would still bring water and snacks. Exploring tidal landscapes apparently makes children hungry every twelve minutes.
Family tip:
Check the tide times before you go. Hopewell Rocks is one of the best day trips from Moncton with kids, but timing is everything.
Fundy National Park From Moncton
Fundy National Park is another brilliant day trip from Moncton, especially if your family loves hiking, waterfalls, beaches, and outdoor adventures.
The drive is manageable, the scenery is beautiful, and there are enough trails and lookouts to make it feel like a proper nature day without needing to relocate your entire life.
If you are using Moncton as a base, Fundy National Park is a great way to experience more of New Brunswick’s wild side.
You can read more about our Fundy National Park day trip in my full guide.
How long to spend:
Allow a full day for Fundy National Park from Moncton if you want to hike, stop at lookouts, visit waterfalls, and enjoy the coast without rushing.
Parking:
Parking is available at different trailheads and visitor areas, but popular spots can get busier in summer. Start earlier in the day if you want a more relaxed visit.
Stroller friendliness:
Some areas may be suitable for strollers, but many trails are better suited to walking kids or baby carriers. Choose shorter, easier trails if you are visiting with young children.
Toilets:
Toilets are available in visitor areas and some key locations, but not everywhere. Plan bathroom stops before heading onto trails.
Food options:
Bring snacks, water, and possibly a picnic, especially if you are planning a full day. There may be seasonal food options, but it is easier with kids if you are not relying on finding food at exactly the right moment.
Family tip:
Fundy National Park is a great day trip from Moncton if your family enjoys nature, but keep the itinerary realistic. One or two good stops with happy kids is better than six stops and a meltdown in hiking shoes.
Prince Edward Island From Moncton NB
Prince Edward Island is also possible from Moncton, especially if you are happy with a bigger day trip or you are planning to continue your New Brunswick road trip that way.
From Moncton, you can drive toward the Confederation Bridge and cross over to PEI for beaches, Anne of Green Gables, Cavendish, Charlottetown, and all the lobster-themed foods you can handle.
We visited Prince Edward Island from our Moncton base, and it became one of those “how much can we squeeze into one day?” adventures.
Spoiler: quite a lot, if you are motivated by pretty places and snacks.
You can read more about our Prince Edward Island day trip in my full guide – must-see attractions.
How long to spend:
Prince Edward Island can be done as a big day trip from Moncton, but it is a long day. If you have more time, staying overnight on PEI will make the experience much more relaxed.
Parking:
Parking depends on where you stop, but main attractions, beaches, and towns usually have visitor parking options. Summer can be busy, especially around Cavendish and Charlottetown.
Stroller friendliness:
PEI towns and major attractions are generally family-friendly, but beaches and some natural areas may be easier with a carrier or walking kids rather than a stroller.
Toilets:
Toilet access is best around visitor centres, restaurants, beaches, and major attractions. Build in stops because PEI is bigger than it looks when everyone suddenly needs a bathroom.
Food options:
PEI is a great food destination, especially for seafood, lobster, ice cream, and casual family meals. This is not the day to forget snacks, but it is definitely the day to try something local.
Family tip:
If you are doing PEI from Moncton in one day, choose your stops carefully. Confederation Bridge, Cavendish, Green Gables, a beach, and Charlottetown can make a beautiful but full itinerary.
Nova Scotia From Moncton
Nova Scotia was one of the reasons Moncton appealed to us in the first place.
It is close enough to make Moncton feel like a smart base if you are trying to explore more of the Maritimes. While Nova Scotia deserves its own proper trip, Moncton works well as a launching point if your East Coast Canada road trip is taking you through multiple provinces.
And that, for me, is one of Moncton’s biggest strengths.
It may not be the loudest destination in Canada, but it quietly puts you within reach of so much.
One Day In Moncton With Kids
If you only have one day in Moncton with kids, I would keep it simple.
Start with Magnetic Hill and let everyone experience the strange little optical illusion.
Then choose either Magnetic Hill Zoo or Magic Mountain, depending on the season and your children’s interests.
In the afternoon, head into downtown Moncton for food, a walk along the riverfront, and the Tidal Bore if the timing works.
If it is a Saturday, add the Moncton Market.
Finish with dinner at a family-friendly restaurant or a relaxed food stop.
One day in Moncton will not let you see everything, but it is enough to understand why the city makes such a useful and friendly base.
Two Days In Moncton With Kids
With two days in Moncton, you can slow things down.
On day one, focus on the Magnetic Hill area. Do Magnetic Hill, Magic Mountain, Magnetic Hill Zoo, or nearby family activities.
On day two, explore downtown Moncton, the riverfront, Resurgo Place, the Moncton Market if it is open, and a good food stop.
If you are visiting in summer and there is a festival on, even better.
This is exactly where Moncton shines. It gives you enough to do without making you feel like you are failing if you don’t tick off a hundred attractions.
Three Days In Moncton Or More
If you have three days or more in Moncton, use it as a base.
Spend one day enjoying Moncton attractions.
Spend one day at Hopewell Rocks or Fundy National Park.
Spend one day visiting Shediac or heading toward Prince Edward Island.
This is where Moncton becomes less of a city break and more of a New Brunswick family travel hub.
It is practical, easy, and perfectly positioned for day trips.
Where To Stay In Moncton With Kids
We stayed in a housesit, which worked beautifully for our family.
A 100-year-old house.
Pets.
Space.
A parrot that barked.
What more could a travelling family ask for?
If you are not housesitting, look for family accommodation in Moncton near Magnetic Hill if you want easy access to Magic Mountain, Magnetic Hill Zoo, and the main family attractions.
If you prefer restaurants, events, and riverfront walks, downtown Moncton is a better base.
For road trips, anywhere with easy access to the highway will make day trips to Hopewell Rocks, Fundy National Park, Shediac, and Prince Edward Island much easier.
My family travel rule is simple: stay where you will reduce the number of times you have to say, “Everyone get back in the car.”
Is Moncton Worth Visiting With Kids?
Yes, Moncton is absolutely worth visiting with kids.
And I say that as someone who originally arrived thinking, “Where the heck is Moncton?”
It is not flashy.
It is not trying to be Toronto or Vancouver or Montreal.
It is practical, friendly, and surprisingly fun for families.
There are enough things to do in Moncton with kids to keep you busy for a few days, and the day trips from Moncton make it even more appealing.
It is especially good if you are planning an East Coast Canada road trip and want a base that connects New Brunswick, the Bay of Fundy coast, Prince Edward Island, and Nova Scotia.
The Perfect Place To Base Ourselves
Moncton ended up being the perfect home base for us.
It gave us plenty of time to relax and enjoy the beautiful house we were housesitting, while also keeping us busy with food, festivals, friendly locals, summer camps, and surrounding attractions.
Would I go back?
For sure.
Anytime someone has a housesit there, I am going.
Think about it next time you head to Canada.
New Brunswick might not have been on your radar before, but it is now.
And Moncton?
Well, now you know exactly where the heck it is.
FAQs About Visiting Moncton With Kids
What are the best things to do in Moncton with kids?
The best things to do in Moncton with kids include Magnetic Hill, Magic Mountain, Magnetic Hill Zoo, Resurgo Place, the Moncton Tidal Bore, Irishtown Nature Park, the Moncton Market, and family-friendly festivals such as Ribfest and Canada Day celebrations.
Is Moncton a good family travel destination?
Yes, Moncton is a great family travel destination because it is easy to get around, friendly, and close to several major New Brunswick attractions. It also has plenty of kid-friendly activities, including a waterpark, zoo, museums, parks, markets, and day trips.
How many days do you need in Moncton?
You can see the main Moncton attractions in one or two days, but three or more days is better if you want to use Moncton as a base for day trips to Hopewell Rocks, Fundy National Park, Shediac, Prince Edward Island, or Nova Scotia.
What is Moncton famous for?
Moncton is famous for Magnetic Hill, the Tidal Bore, its location as Hub City, and its easy access to the Bay of Fundy, Hopewell Rocks, Shediac, and other Maritime Province destinations.
Can you visit Hopewell Rocks from Moncton?
Yes, Hopewell Rocks Provincial Park is one of the best day trips from Moncton. It is close enough to visit in a day, but you should check the tide times before you go so you can experience the ocean floor at low tide and high tide.
What are the best free things to do in Moncton with kids?
Some of the best free things to do in Moncton with kids include walking along the riverfront, watching the Tidal Bore, visiting local parks, exploring Irishtown Nature Park, browsing the Moncton Market, and enjoying free community events when they are running.
Is Magnetic Hill worth visiting?
Yes, Magnetic Hill is worth visiting if you like quirky roadside attractions. It is quick, fun, and especially good with kids because the optical illusion makes it feel like your car is rolling uphill.
What are the best day trips from Moncton?
The best day trips from Moncton include Hopewell Rocks, Fundy National Park, Shediac, Prince Edward Island, and Nova Scotia. Moncton makes a great base because it sits in a central location for exploring New Brunswick and the surrounding Maritime Provinces.
