MNP’s Canadian guide to affordable fun

With economic uncertainty on the rise, it’s more important than ever for Canadians to find ways to save money while still enjoying life. Affordable fun isn’t just a luxury — it’s a necessity for maintaining a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.

At MNP, we’re proud to be 100 percent Canadian and believe in highlighting the value of affordable fun across our beautiful country. From the bustling cities of Edmonton, Montreal, Toronto and Vancouver to the charming towns of Atlantic Canada and beyond, there are countless opportunities to explore and enjoy without breaking the bank.

Our Canadian guide to affordable fun showcases top budget-friendly activities in each major hub, helping you experience the best of Canada while protecting your financial well-being.

Let's break down some top picks from east to west:

St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador

• Hike the Signal Hill Trail for incredible ocean and city views.
• Visit The Rooms museum on days with free admission.
• Stroll George Street during the day to experience the local charm.
• Explore Quidi Vidi Village for scenic photos and rich history.

Halifax, Nova Scotia

• Walk through the Halifax Public Gardens — one of North America’s oldest Victorian gardens.
• Explore the Halifax Waterfront and visit local shops and eateries.
• Hike at Point Pleasant Park and discover beautiful trails and historic ruins.
• Tour the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic and learn about Nova Scotia's rich maritime history.
• Catch a free concert at the Grand Parade and enjoy live music in the heart of the city.

Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia

• Explore Cabot Trail — famous for its beautiful scenery and numerous hiking trails.
• Discover waterfalls like Beulach Ban Falls and North River Falls, both accessible for free via hiking trails.
• Camp at Cape Breton Highlands National Park, which features eight campgrounds set amid stunning landscapes. Alternatively, enjoy riverside camping with access to swimming and boating at Mira River Provincial Park.
• Cast a line at Mira River, known for its abundance of trout. Enjoy fishing with a valid license in this scenic spot.

• Tee off with a view at Highland Links Golf Course, renowned for its mountain scenery and offering a quality golf experience at a reasonable price.

Montreal, Quebec

• Wander through Old Montreal and experience its historic charm and vibrant atmosphere.
• Visit Mount Royal Park and hike to the summit for stunning views of the city.
• Explore the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, which offers free admission on select days.
• Stroll along the Lachine Canal by renting a bike or taking a leisurely walk.
• Attend spring and summer festivals and events, many of which are free or low-cost and take place downtown, in Old Montreal, and throughout surrounding neighborhoods.

Quebec City, Quebec

• Stroll through Old Quebec (Vieux-Québec), a free historic district known for its stunning views and architecture.
• Take in the views from Dufferin Terrace and admire the iconic Château Frontenac.
• Explore Parc de la Chute-Montmorency and witness its breathtaking waterfalls.
• Visit Musée de l’Amérique Francophone or Place Royale on days when free or discounted admission is available.

Ottawa, Ontario

• Visit Parliament Hill to explore the historic buildings and watch the Changing of The Guard.
• Walk along the Rideau Canal and enjoy the scenic views and free activities
• Tour the National Gallery of Canada and discover Canadian and international art displays.
• Explore ByWard Market to find affordable food and unique shops.
• Attend free events and festivals during spring and summer throughout the city centre and surrounding areas.

Toronto, Ontario

• Visit the Toronto Islands by taking a ferry ride and enjoying the beaches and parks.
• Explore Kensington Market to discover unique shops and affordable eateries.
• Visit High Park for and enjoy the gardens, zoo, and hiking trails.
• Tour the Art Gallery of Ontario (free admission on Wednesday evenings).
• Catch a free concert and other events at Nathan Phillips Square, which also features ice skating.

Winnipeg, Manitoba

• Walk the Forks Market and riverfront trails.
• Explore Assiniboine Park and take in the beauty of its English Garden.
• Check out the Canadian Museum for Human Rights on days when discounted admission is available.
• Visit the Exchange District for historical architecture — family-friendly events and free or discounted days are often offered.

Regina, Saskatchewan

• Walk, picnic, or paddle around Wascana Centre, one of Canada’s largest urban parks.
• Visit the Saskatchewan Legislative Building and enjoy a free guided tour.
• Check out the RCMP Heritage Centre, which features free interactive exhibits.
• Enjoy free festivals and performances throughout Victoria Park all summer long.

Saskatoon, Saskatchewan

• Stroll along the Meewasin Valley Trail and enjoy scenic views of the South Saskatchewan River.
• Visit the Remai Modern, which offers free admission on select days.
• Explore the Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park & Zoo for affordable family fun.
• Tour the Western Development Museum to learn about Saskatchewan's history.
• Attend free events at River Landing, from outdoor movies to live concerts.

Calgary, Alberta

• Hike in Nose Hill Park for panoramic city views.
• Visit the Glenbow Museum (free on the first Thursday of every month).
• Explore historic Stephen Avenue Walk and its local shops.
• Relax in Prince's Island Park and enjoy the river pathways and green spaces.
• Experience the Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth, the Calgary Stampede (July 4 to 13, 2025). Enjoy free pancake breakfasts across the city, free concerts and entertainment with general admission, and kick things off with the free Stampede parade downtown on Friday, July 4.
• Watch free evening fireworks every night during Stampede, best viewed from Scotsman’s Hill or the Crescent Heights viewpoint.

Edmonton, Alberta

• Walk along Whyte Avenue to experience local culture and shops. Be sure to stop by the Old Strathcona Farmers’ Market on Saturdays and Sundays, often featuring live entertainment and activities for kids.
• Visit the Muttart Conservatory or the Legislature grounds — both are free to explore.
• Explore the Art Gallery of Alberta on evenings when admission is free.
• Bike, walk, or ride a Segway through the 160 kilometres of trails in the Edmonton River Valley and park systems. For a map of the paths and trails, check out the Edmonton Trail and Pathways
• Catch a free or low-cost event at Sir Winston Churchill Square, ranging from concerts to cultural festivals.
• Check out the weekday dinner buffet cruise on the Edmonton Riverboat, where kids eat free.
• Watch a baseball game at RE/MAX Field for a fun and affordable outing.
• Take a ride on the High Level Bridge Streetcar for a unique view of the city.
• Visit the Royal Alberta Museum, which offers free admission on Family Day (February), Alberta Culture Days (late September), and during Seniors Week (June) for seniors.
• Spend the day at Rundle Park — perfect for a picnic or enjoying amenities, like soccer, baseball and football fields, skate and boat rentals, tennis courts, a toboggan hill, playground, mini golf and more.
• Attend K-days (July 18 to 27), featuring live music, parades, and exhibits. Look out for discount admission days or free community events throughout the city.

Kelowna, British Columbia

• Lounge or swim at City Park and Hot Sands Beach for a relaxing day by the water.
• Walk or bike the Myra Canyon Trestles, a scenic trail along the historic Kettle Valley Railway featuring breathtaking canyon views and iconic wooden trestle bridges.
• Visit local farmers’ markets for budget-friendly bites and fresh local produce.
• Explore downtown Kelowna’s cultural district and browse its galleries and public art.
• Hike Knox Mountain Park via Apex Trail, a 2.1 km route offering panoramic view of downtown Kelowna and Okanagan Lake.
• Hike the Mount Boucherie-Rush Trail in West Kelowna, which leads to the summit of an extinct volcano.

Vancouver, British Columbia

• Walk along the Seawall and enjoy stunning views of the waterfront.
• Tour Gastown to see the historic steam clock and browse local shops.
• Visit Granville Island to explore the public market and artisan boutiques.
• Hike in Stanley Park, where you can discover forested trails, beaches, and the famous totem poles.
• Tour the Vancouver Art Gallery which offers free admission on the first Friday of every month from 4 to 8 p.m., and free daily entry for kids under 18.
• Attend free outdoor movies and concerts, especially popular during the summer months.

Victoria, British Columbia

• Wander through Beacon Hill Park and see the resident peacocks.
• Visit Fisherman’s Wharf and keep an eye out for playful seals.
• Take in sunset views along Dallas Road Waterfront Trail for a scenic end to your day.
• Explore Chinatown and Fan Tan Alley, one of the narrowest streets in Canada, filled with unique shops and history.

We hope you’ve added a few new cities to your Canadian travel bucket list. At MNP, we understand that travel has become expensive — which is why we’re proud to showcase budget-friendly ways to enjoy every province without sacrificing fun.

If debt or financial stress is getting in the way of your goals, our Licensed Insolvency Trustees (LITs) are here to help. From free consultations to expert advice on debt solutions, we’re committed to helping you enjoy more of what Canada has to offer — without the burden of financial worry.

Visit us in person or online at mnpdebt.ca