TOP IMAGE © Courtesy of Tourism Edmundston
If you’re inspired by the fresh air of the Atlantic, being surrounded by historical charm, and meeting friendly locals, Edmundston, New Brunswick is where you need to be.
Formerly Petit-Sault, Edmundston was founded around 1790 by Acadians fleeing Loyalists’ arrival from the East. Today, Edmundston is the most important business and service hub in Northwestern New Brunswick and a must-visit destination for history buffs and nature lovers alike. Discover the natural, cultural, and friendly charm of this vibrant city located at the Atlantic gateway along the sumptuous Saint John River nestled in the Appalachian!
Immerse yourself in history by walking the downtown core and discovering historic buildings, sites, cathedrals, and even a British Fort. Make it a walk to remember by charting your route across the Madawaska River, crossing the magnificent Bernard-Valcourt pedestrian bridge. While you’re there, take some time to learn about the Legendary Republic of Madawaska, a small, unrecognized state in the northwest corner of Madawaska County, New Brunswick.
Begin your historical trek at the Edmundston Canadian Pacific Station, built in 1929-1930. The station was designated a heritage railway station in 1998 and now serves as an information centre for visitors. Next, travel down to the Bernard-Valcourt pedestrian bridge, where you can access both banks of the Madawaska River in downtown Edmundston and take in the beautiful views of the area.
Just steps away, you’ll find the stunning architecture of the Université de Moncton. When you’ve had your fill of the gorgeous views, turn your focus to the region’s history with a visit to St. John the Baptist Anglican Church, the oldest church in the city, built between 1878 and 1887. Recognized as a monument, the church features low walls, steep gables, deep borders and eaves, taking visitors on a trip to the past. Similarly, the Immaculate Conception Cathedral is an unmissable landmark, home to an architectural amalgam combining Romanesque and Gothic styles and one of the largest organs in the Atlantic—a 45-stop organ with three thousand pipes spread.
End your trip down history lane with a stop at the Edmundston Town Hall Square, once home to many important buildings that housed over a hundred years of memories and stories. A commemorative plaque highlights the particular effervescence that once existed in this place, and summer events fill the area with love and music.
The last item on your Atlantic itinerary is a breath of fresh air—literally. Outdoor enthusiasts, grab your paddles and descend our majestic rivers, or criss-cross our unrivalled mountain bike trails, which are increasingly popular amongst the most ardent cyclists. Or pedal freely along the Interprovincial Petit Témis bike trail, 134 km trail following the Madawaska River and Témiscoutata lake. Expand your senses at the New Brunswick Botanical Garden, which will captivate you with its enchanting colours and its mesmerizing aromas and textures! Taste the unique local flavours of this corner of Acadia: the famous “ploye,” character craft beers, and maple products.
There is so much to discover, so join in on the fun! tourismedmundston.com
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Edmundston Tourism is there to bring the attractions and activities of Edmundston, Lac Baker, Rivière-Verte and Upper Madawaska to the forefront. Come discover our welcoming region during your vacation, trip or stay.
