Escape to Canada: 5 Great Getaways

Crossing the border has never looked better.

Nova Scotia | Photo: Tourism Nova Scotia

But seriously: All politics aside, you have to admit that Canada is looking mighty good these days. Not only is our northern neighbor the current darling of countless must-visit lists; the country is celebrating its 150th birthday this year, with free admission to many of its national parks and historic sites. The exchange rate favors the U.S. dollar, and — maybe most compellingly — there’s tremendous natural beauty sitting cheek to jowl with increasingly vibrant, worldly cities, all just a few hours away from here. In short: If you haven’t been, now’s the time to plan a trip. And the five itineraries on the following pages — packed with culture, nature, fun, poutine — are a really good place to start. — Edited by Emily Goulet and Christine Speer Lejeune


Toronto: An Urbanist’s Paradise

Art Gallery of Ontario | iStockphoto

Shopping, street art and celeb-spotting in Toronto. Read more »


Quebec City: European Romance in North America

A view of Chateau Frontenac | iStockphoto

The continental allure of Quebec City. Read more »


Montreal: Old World Meets New World … Plus Bagels

Bar George at Le Mount Stephen | Photo: Cindy La/Le Mount Stephen

Biking, biodomes, big tops and foie gras (bien sûr!) in Montreal. Read more »


Niagara Falls: Awe and Adventure

Zip-lining at Niagara Falls | Photo: iStockphoto

There’s more than you think to Niagara Falls. Read more »


Nova Scotia: The East Coast Like You’ve Never Seen It 

Nova Scotia | Photo: Tourism Nova Scotia

The unceasing beauty of Nova Scotia. Read more »

First published as “Escape to Canada” in Philadelphia magazine’s September 2017 issue.