Things to do in Cape Breton
Discover the best attractions and experiences Cape Breton has to offer
Historic Monuments
Cape Breton's past comes alive at coastal forts and living history sites that tell stories of settlers, battles, and industry.
Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site
A meticulously reconstructed 18th‑century fortress where costumed guides reenact daily life and historic battles.
Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site (Baddeck)
Celebrate Bell's innovations at his iconic summer home and museum overlooking the lake.
The Highland Village Museum (Iona)
Open-air village recreating Gaelic life and culture with traditional buildings and demonstrations.
Museums
Learn about Cape Breton's coal, culture, and craft through independent museums and heritage centres.
Cape Breton Miners' Museum (Glace Bay)
Shows the region's mining history with exhibits and a working coal mine replica.
Gaelic College Heritage Centre (St. Ann's)
Cultural displays and insights into Gaelic language, music, and traditions.
Celtic Music Interpretive Centre (Judique)
Exhibits and performances that celebrate Cape Breton's Celtic music heritage.
Religious Monuments
Historic churches and spiritual landmarks dot Cape Breton's coast and towns.
St. Patrick's Church (Sydney, NS)
A historic Catholic church serving the local community with classic architecture.
St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church (Glace Bay)
Traditional Presbyterian church building reflecting the region's religious history.
National & Theme Parks
Fresh ocean air and cliffside trails await in Cape Breton's protected landscapes and scenic routes.
Cape Breton Highlands National Park
Spectacular coastal trails, cliffs, and salmon rivers amid rugged highlands.
Cabot Trail (scenic drive)
Iconic coastal loop with plentiful lookouts and sea views along the Cape Breton coast.
Neighborhoods
Discover the character of Cape Breton's towns and villages, each with its own stories and energy.
Baddeck
Pleasant lakeside village known for its connections to Bell and scenic walks.
Inverness
Coastal town with beaches, golf, and a lively cultural scene.
Cheticamp
Acadian-influenced harbor village on the Cabot Trail with artisan culture.
Mabou
Rugged coastal community famed for Celtic music and shoal harbor views.
Free Things to Do
Many of Cape Breton's classics are free to enjoy, from hikes to seaside strolls.
Skyline Trail (Cape Breton Highlands NP)
A standout hike offering dramatic ocean and plateau views.
Sydney waterfront stroll
Relax along the harbour with shops, ferries, and sea air.
Beaches of Ingonish
Spread out on sandy shores and watch the tides roll in.
Gastronomy
Cape Breton's food scene pairs seafood delicacies with hearty regional fare.
Lobster suppers
Classic Cape Breton feasts featuring fresh lobster, corn, and potatoes.
Seafood chowder
Creamy chowder using local fish and shellfish with ocean flavors.
Bannock and local fare
Savory breads and traditional treats found in communities across the island.
Nightlife
Evenings in Cape Breton pulses with Celtic music and cozy pubs.
The Red Shoe Pub (Mabou)
Iconic pub offering lively Celtic music sessions.
Celtic music evenings (Gaelic College, St. Ann's)
Live traditional tunes and dance-inspired performances.
Entertainment
Live performances and cultural showcases bring Cape Breton's spirit to life.
Celtic Music Interpretive Centre (Judique)
Celebrates Cape Breton's musical heritage through exhibits and shows.
Traditional ceilidhs and performances at local venues
Informal, toe-tapping sessions of Celtic fiddling and storytelling.
Sports
Play it out on the links or ride the waves of Cape Breton's rugged coast.
Cabot Links (Inverness)
A world-renowned coastal golf course with dramatic ocean views.
Cabot Cliffs (Inverness)
A stellar wilderness-style golf course perched above the sea.
Whale watching (Pleasant Bay area)
Catch glimpses of dolphins and whales along the coastline.
Off the Track
Venture beyond the obvious to discover local culture and hidden gems.
Gaelic culture experiences in Mabou and St. Ann's
Learn and soak up Gaelic music, language, and craft.
Artisan shops and craft studios in Cheticamp
Support local artisans with authentic crafts and textiles.