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What makes a great downtown? In the Maritimes, it’s not just about shops and cafés—it’s about waterfront boardwalks, centuries-old buildings, and a deep connection to the sea. Located on Canada’s east coast, the Maritimes—Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island—are shaped by rugged shorelines, historic fishing villages, and colonial settlements dating back to the 1600s. Many towns were founded by Scottish, Acadian, and British settlers, leaving behind fortresses, heritage streetscapes, and maritime traditions that still thrive today. The eight downtowns featured here each have their character, from Lunenburg’s colorful Old Town to St. Andrews’ tidal wonders. Whether you love history, nature, or small-town charm, these destinations deserve a spot on your itinerary. So grab your bags, hit the road, and explore the best downtowns in the Maritimes.

Lunenburg, Nova Scotia

Lunenburg is among North America's best-preserved planned British colonial settlements. Originally founded in 1753, its rectangular grid layout earned it UNESCO º£½ÇÉçÇø Heritage status. The Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic, located downtown, is a testament to its maritime heritage. The brightly painted wooden structures in Old Town Lunenburg are a reminder of its shipbuilding tradition, making it one of Canada’s most significant heritage districts. Battery Point Lighthouse Park, offering scenic views of the harbor, is just a short drive from downtown.

Montague Street is lined with boutiques, art galleries, and cafés, including Dots & Loops, a store featuring locally made art, jewelry, and giftware. Salt Shaker Deli & Inn, with waterfront views, is a well-known spot for fresh seafood. Adding to its maritime legacy, Bluenose II, a replica of the legendary racing schooner, regularly docks in Lunenburg, offering cruises aboard this celebrated vessel.

Shediac, New Brunswick

While Shediac’s claim as the Lobster Capital of the º£½ÇÉçÇø is well-earned, its downtown has more to offer than just seafood. A Giant Lobster sculpture greets visitors at the entrance, a playful nod to the town’s maritime identity. Pascal Poirier House, home to one of Acadian Canada’s first senators, offers a glimpse into 19th-century Acadian life.

Main Street is a lively mix of seafood restaurants, artisan shops, and bakeries, with Adorable Chocolat standing out for its handmade treats. Just a short walk away, Shediac Bay Marina provides stunning waterfront views and access to Canada’s warmest saltwater beaches.

Annapolis Royal, Nova Scotia

Every corner of Annapolis Royal holds a story. The town’s past unfolds at Fort Anne National Historic Site, where centuries-old fortifications overlook the Annapolis Basin. Nearby, the Annapolis Royal Historic Gardens feature a Rose Collection with thousands of fragrant blossoms, an Innovative Garden showcasing modern urban gardening techniques, and a reconstructed Acadian House representing life in 1671.

Downtown St. George Street is home to King’s Theatre, a community performing arts venue, and Far-Fetched Antiques, a shop specializing in maritime artifacts. The Sinclair Inn Museum, one of Canada’s oldest surviving wooden structures, reveals layers of 18th-century life. At night, the Candlelight Graveyard Tour takes visitors through one of Canada’s oldest English graveyards at Fort Anne, where stories of early settlers are shared by lantern light.

Wolfville, Nova Scotia

Wolfville blends old-fashioned character, academic energy, and natural beauty. Dating back to the 18th century, it is home to Acadia University, whose stately campus adds to the town’s charm. The Harriet Irving Botanical Gardens, located on the university grounds, is a serene retreat with themed gardens and woodland trails. The Randall House Museum, housed in an early 19th-century home, preserves artifacts from Wolfville’s past. Wolfville Waterfront Park offers scenic views of the Minas Basin, perfect for a stroll.

Paddy’s Brewpub & Rosie’s Restaurant is a lively spot for Maritime comfort food and craft beer. Wolfville also serves as a gateway to the Annapolis Valley wine region, with vineyard tours and tastings just minutes away.

Summerside, Prince Edward Island

Few places capture Prince Edward Island’s coastal character better than Summerside. The Baywalk Boardwalk and Cycling Trail runs along Bedeque Bay, offering dramatic ocean views and leading to Spinnaker’s Landing, a colorful cluster of fishing-style shops and restaurants. Nearby, the Harbourfront Theatre keeps the arts scene alive with live music, comedy, and theatrical performances.

The Eptek Art & Culture Centre preserves local history and Island craftsmanship, while the Wyatt Historic House Museum showcases artifacts from a prominent local family. The town’s historic railway station, now a visitor center, brings Summerside’s transportation history to life, bridging the past and present.

Amherst, Nova Scotia

Amherst wears its Victorian elegance proudly. Its downtown core is a showcase of ornate sandstone buildings, constructed from locally quarried Amherst red sandstone, a material that shaped the town’s identity. The Cumberland County Museum, housed in the historic Groves House, tells the story of Amherst’s industrial and cultural past. Nearby, Victoria Square, a beautifully landscaped park, serves as a gathering place for seasonal markets and community events.

The town’s artistic spirit thrives at Amherst Artisan Gallery, where local painters, sculptors, and craftspeople display their work. A short walk leads to Dickey Park, a peaceful retreat with walking trails, a pond, and open green spaces. The Amherst Railway Station, built in 1908 using the town’s signature sandstone, stands as a reminder of Amherst’s historic role as a regional transportation hub.

St. Andrews, New Brunswick

With its coastal elegance and timeless architecture, St. Andrews by the Sea is one of Canada’s most picturesque small towns. The Charlotte County Archives, housed in the 1830s-built Old Gaol, preserves stories of the town’s past, while the Sheriff Andrews House, a Georgian-style home, offers a glimpse into 19th-century aristocratic life.

Downtown’s Water Street is home to Serendipin’ Art, a gallery featuring local maritime-inspired artworks Just beyond, the Kingsbrae Garden, a 27-acre botanical masterpiece, features themed gardens and resident alpacas. At low tide, visitors can walk across the ocean floor to Minister’s Island, where they can explore the grand estate of railway tycoon William Van Horne.

Pictou, Nova Scotia

Pictou's waterfront is a testament to Scottish heritage and maritime resilience. The Hector Heritage Quay commemorates the Hector, the ship that brought Nova Scotia's first Scottish settlers in 1773. The Northumberland Fisheries Museum highlights the region's deep connection to the sea and features a live lobster hatchery.

Downtown Water Street is lined with independent boutiques and artisanal shops, including TABITHA + CO., known for its handcrafted leather goods. At the heart of town, the Grohmann Knives Factory Outlet continues a long-standing tradition of fine craftsmanship. Across the harbor, Brown's Point Lighthouse offers postcard-worthy views, rounding out Pictou's blend of heritage, craftsmanship, and coastal beauty.

A Journey Through Time, One Downtown at a Time

Maritime downtowns aren’t frozen in time—they’re alive with arts, culture, and coastal beauty. From Pictou’s Scottish heritage to Summerside’s waterfront shops, these towns offer a perfect blend of past and present. Walk fortress walls in Annapolis Royal, browse artisan markets in Wolfville, or sail aboard a º£½ÇÉçÇø-famous schooner in Lunenburg. Take in the ocean breeze in Shediac, explore Amherst’s sandstone streets, or step onto Minister’s Island at low tide. Whether you’re drawn to museums, lighthouses, botanical gardens, or bustling main streets, each town has something special to explore. The best way to experience the Maritimes is to immerse yourself in its small towns, meet the locals, and take in the waterfront views. Pack your bags, hit the road, and discover these unforgettable downtowns.