Maritime Tour: Dropping Anchor in Moncton, NB (3/3)

The Marcoses 2024 Provinces Series - The Maritimes (July 13-24)

Embarking on an unforgettable journey over the iconic Confederation Bridge, which spans open waters, sets the tone for an adventurous drive to Moncton! Located just a two-hour trip from Prince Edward Island, Moncton is not only the largest and most populous city in New Brunswick but also home to the world-famous Flower Pot Rocks at Hopewell Rocks Provincial Park.

New Brunswick is the postcard of the wild, bold, and daring. Unmasked with pretensions of touristy glam, Moncton, its famous city followed suit. Moncton promises an authentic Canadian Maritime adventure to all who visit. With its rugged seascapes, invigorating salty air, and the natural beauty of the Bay of Fundy, it's a place where every step connects you to the great outdoors. Whether you're exploring sandy beaches, hiking along scenic trails, or marveling at the dramatic tides, one thing is certain—no one leaves with clean shoes but plenty of unforgettable memories! 

Day 10: Biwday

Before diving into grand maritime adventures, the family took a moment to enjoy some playtime. New Brunswick does not only offer fun to those who like to wander, it's also a fantastic destination for little ones in this big world. What better place to test out daring feats, like braving the rapids of a waterslide, navigating its twists and turns, or experiencing the rush of a sky-high Ferris wheel? Our tenth day in the Maritimes began with thrills that were perfect for a biwday! Biw, always the thrill-seeker, couldn’t have had a better way to let loose than at Magnetic Hill!

 

Magnetic Hill

Magnetic Hill, located just outside Moncton, New Brunswick, is a famous optical illusion where vehicles appear to roll uphill against gravity, this phenomenon is in fact an illusion created by the layout of the surrounding landscape.

Magnetic Park

Magnetic Hill Park is a recreational space, located in the same region as the Magnetic Hill attraction, offers visitors a place to relax and enjoy the outdoors, and a perfect genesis to the advent of adventures and fun to follow. 

The playground is well-equipped with modern play structures, swings, slides, and other fun features. It’s a perfect spot for kids to challenge themselves and try what they can handle. While the park may not be as large or intimidating as something like Canada's Wonderland, it’s fun in its own unique way. We definitely prefer the park for its charming, personal atmosphere and its kid-friendly rides. That said, we should acknowledge that not all kids under 10 may have the courage to tackle something as intense as a Leviathan ride. What makes Magnetic Hill Park special is its inclusivity, offering something for every child to enjoy without ever feeling overwhelmed.

Tidal Bore

I could have kept the tide immemorial in my camera roll but unfortunately, I was too late to take a video!

The Tidal Bore is a fascinating natural phenomenon that occurs along the Petitcodiac River near Moncton, New Brunswick, and is one of the most notable tidal events in the world.  The Tidal Bore can be seen from various points around Moncton, and it draws crowds of locals and tourists alike, who gather at observation points or the riverbanks to watch the spectacle. The time of the tide varries, so it's a good idea to check the schedule for when to see the best displays.

Dinner

Our first in a long time of Filipino cuisine fasting since embarking on the tor to te Maritimes. We spotted a local Filipino restarurant in Shediac en route to Moncton and made a mental note to drive back before heading to Hopewell Rocks. We did not regret taking the detour, there is no place like home, even our tummys said so.

Day 11: Hopewell Rocks

Hopewell Rocks is the unofficial postcard of New Brunswick, gracing the covers of numerous magazines and appearing in countless travel blogs and tourism promotions. Visiting it was more than just an adventure—it was an immersion in the essence of Maritime grandeur. The breathtaking display of stunning rock formations was truly mesmerizing, a masterpiece of nature that held nothing back in its creation.

The drive from Moncton to Hopewell Rocks Provincial Park takes no more than 40 minutes by car. There’s plenty of parking available for visitors, and while admission isn’t free, it’s reasonably priced considering what awaits you beyond the gate. To reach the ocean floor, you’ll navigate a series of descending staircases—literally to the ocean floor, where the famous Flowerpot Rocks are at their most spectacular after the tide has receded. The walk isn’t easy—it’s muddy and slushy—but totally worth it, even if it means getting your shoes (and possibly your shorts) dirty! One important thing to keep in mind: while the seabed may feel squishy, it’s also covered with slippery rocks, and there’s an abundance of seaweed, so caution is essential when exploring.

While it’s easy to get lost in the mystical beauty of the rocks and marvel at the centuries they’ve withstood through their craters and formations, it’s important to always keep an eye on the time. High tide follows a predictable schedule, and though an alarm siren will sound as a warning, you definitely don’t want to be caught at the farthest end of the area when the tide comes in. Getting back to the exit above ground from there can be difficult and inaccessible. While there are precautions and emergency rescues in place, you really don’t want to be "that" tourist!

Moncton is the perfect embodiment of Maritime adventure, offering something for both the little ones and the grown-ups! The city is full of endless surprises, but one thing that truly stands out is how it keeps the thrill authentic and simple—proving that sometimes, the most memorable adventures are the ones unmasked with touristy traps and let the natural wonders shine. Moncton is a place where every adventurous soul can find something to love, no matter their age!

*MBGXMoncton*  *TheMarcosesXNewBrunswick*  *2&1/2GypsiesXCanada*