Annapolis Royal

A charming historic town with North America's oldest continuous European settlement and beautifully preserved Georgian and Victorian architecture. Explore the Fort Anne National Historic Site, enjoy local galleries and restaurants, and experience classic Maritime hospitality.

Things to do

• Fort Anne National Historic Site — Explore Canada's oldest continuously occupied European settlement with restored bastions, museums, and sweeping views of the Annapolis Basin.
• Annapolis Royal Historic Gardens — Stroll through 17 acres of meticulously landscaped gardens featuring Victorian design, heritage plants, and waterfront pathways along the Annapolis River.
• St. Luke's Anglican Church — Visit this beautifully preserved 1817 Georgian church in the heart of downtown, one of the finest examples of period architecture in the Maritime provinces.
• Tidal Bore Rafting — Experience the famous Bay of Fundy tidal bore on the Shubenacadie River, located about 45 minutes away, with guided rafting adventures during peak tidal events.
• Art Galleries and Studios — Browse local galleries such as the Annapolis Royal Visitor Centre Gallery and independent artist studios showcasing Maritime-inspired paintings, sculpture, and crafts.
• Annapolis Royal Farmer's Market — Visit the weekend market in summer months to sample local produce, artisan goods, and prepared foods from regional vendors.
• Fundy Coast Scenic Drive — Drive the picturesque coastal route toward Clementsport and Port-Royal to experience rugged shorelines and historic Acadian heritage sites.

Food to try

• Acadian Rappie Pie — A traditional Maritime casserole made with grated potato, chicken or seafood, and broth, representing the region's French-Acadian culinary heritage.
• Local Lobster and Seafood — Fresh-caught Atlantic lobster, halibut, and scallops prepared simply at waterfront restaurants to highlight the daily catch from the Bay of Fundy.
• Blueberry Treats — Sample Nova Scotia's famous wild blueberries in pies, jams, and desserts at local bakeries and cafés throughout the town.
• Digby Scallop Crepes — Delicate crêpes filled with plump Digby scallops in a light cream sauce, showcasing the nearby town's renowned seafood specialty.
• Root Vegetable Soups — Hearty seasonal soups featuring local turnips, parsnips, and potatoes, reflecting traditional Maritime comfort food and farm-to-table cooking.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Heritage Site Hours — Fort Anne and the Historic Gardens operate seasonally; check ahead during shoulder months as hours and services may be limited outside peak summer.
• Embrace Maritime Pace — This is a slow-travel destination where locals value unhurried conversation; plan to linger in shops, cafés, and at waterfront spots rather than rushing between attractions.
• Experience Tidal Phenomena — The Bay of Fundy's dramatic tides are central to local life and identity; ask locals about tide times and consider visiting the shoreline at different tidal stages to appreciate the 40-foot difference.