Exploring the Fredericton Capital Region doesn't have to break the bank. In fact, there's a wealth of activities and attractions that you can enjoy without spending a dime. From scenic parks and historic landmarks to vibrant cultural events and outdoor adventures, the Fredericton Capital Region offers something for everyone. Whether you're a local looking for new experiences or a visitor eager to discover the region's charm, our guide to 40 free things to do in the Fredericton Capital Region will help you make the most of your time without straining your wallet.
1. Trails
No matter the weather, it's always a perfect time to hit the trails! The Fredericton Capital Region boasts an incredible trail network running along the scenic Wolastoq (Saint John River) and the region's lush forests. Whether you enjoy walking, running, biking, or hiking, there is a trail for every adventurer.
Trails
2. Under the Stars Movie Series
Experience the magic of outdoor movies at the City of Fredericton's Under the Stars weekly movie series in Officers' Square in the Historic Garrison District. Every Friday from July to August at dusk, join in for a selection of new family favorites and classic films, all PG-13 and under.
Historic Garrison District
3. Outdoor Summer Concert Series
Step into a world of music as Officers' Square comes alive with free weekly live concerts every Tuesday and Wednesday at 7:00pm, running until Labour Day. From soulful roots music to upbeat rhythms to relaxing jazz, immerse yourself in the diverse sounds of talented local musicians amidst Officers' Square's historic charm.
Historic Garrison District
4. Groove in the Garrison
Introducing Groove in the Garrison, a brand-new addition to the weekly lineup that promises to get you moving and grooving like never before! Every Thursday at 7:00 pm, the stage at Officers' Square comes alive with the infectious beats of live music and community dances.
Historic Garrison District
5. Fredericton Boyce Farmers Market
Ranked one of the top ten markets in Canada, the Fredericton Boyce Farmers Market is open every Saturday morning, with over 200 stalls full of great vibes, farm fresh produce and local crafts.
Fredericton Boyce Farmers Market
6. Free Guided Heritage Walking Tours
Take a lively walking tour of Fredericton with a historically costumed guide! Tours are offered daily from June 30th to August 31st (10am & 2:30 pm) starting in Barracks Square!
Calithumpians
7. Killarney Lake Park
Less than a 10-minute drive from the city center, Killarney Lake Park has more than 645 hectares, over 30 km of multi-use trails, open recreational areas, a swimming beach, a playground, and the Killarney Lake Rotary Centennial Lodge.
Killarney Lake Park
8. Garrison Night Market
The Garrison Night Market takes over Carleton Street in the historic garrison district every Thursday from 4:30 to 9:00pm This outdoor market comes alive with street vendors, busker entertainment, theatre, and musical performances. It will take place rain or shine until September 4, 2025!
Garrison Night Market
9. BFN 2025 Summer Concert Series
Enjoy free outdoor concerts featuring some of New Brunswick's top performers at the Nashwaaksis Commons every Wednesday at 7:00pm, June through August! Genres range from Classic Rock to Celtic and Country!
BFN 2025 Summer Concert Series
10. Carleton Park
Picnic? Throw the Frisbee around? Sunset watching? If you've said yes to any of these, head to Carleton Park on the North Side of Fredericton. This green runs along the North Riverfront Trail (or Union Street) and mirrors the southside green from Cliffe Street to the mouth of the Nashwaak River. The park also has a popular boat launching site.
Carleton Park
11. Waterfall Chasing!
The Fredericton Capital Region is filled with beautiful waterfalls. Spend some time discovering the rushing waterfalls from Fredericton Junction to Central York, Nashwaak, and more!
Waterfalls
12. Explore Wilmot Park
Wilmot Park in downtown Fredericton boasts a splash pad, walking trails, lighted tennis courts, a basketball court, lawn bowling, a play park, and more. Once the Government House gardens are located, the park is a perfect spot for a picnic or to enjoy the outdoors.
Wilmot Park
13. Minto Mountain Biking Trails
In New Brunswick, Minto is known for its exceptional mountain biking trails in the Maritimes region. More than 45km of trails, created by earth movers during the coal mining era, provide a unique mountain bike goldmine of trails, views, and features that are unmatched by any other trail system.
Mountain Bike Minto
14. Big Axe Marina and the World's Largest Axe
Destination Nackawic has developed a 54-acre recreational and tourism area on the waterfront. This waterfront also houses the World's Largest Axe. This unique attraction and area make for a perfect day trip!
Destination Nackawic
15. Fredericton Royals Baseball
The Royals baseball team is a local team that plays in the New Brunswick Senior Baseball League! They host exciting games at Royal's Field in Marysville, perfect for sports fans looking for summer fun!
Fredericton Royals Baseball
16. Beaverbrook Art Gallery on Thursdays
The Beaverbrook Art Gallery in downtown Fredericton is one of Canada's finest art museums and predominantly features works by Canadian, British and international masters with a priority on contemporary New Brunswick artists. Every Thursday night, the gallery is entrance by donation!
Beaverbrook Art Gallery
17. Garrison Skate Park
The 15,300-square-foot park in the York Street Parking Lot features a selection of world-class plaza terrain where Skateboarders, bikers, and scooter enthusiasts of all age groups and abilities can work on their skills and try many new tricks.
Garrison Skate Park
18. Fredericton Botanic Garden
Located at the western end of Odell Park, the Fredericton Botanic Garden has several perennial beds, a collection of Rhododendrons and Azaleas, woodland trails, plans for a rose garden, and more.
Fredericton Botanic Garden
19. The Shogomoc Walking Bridge (Suspension Bridge)
The Shogomoc Walking Bridge is a suspension bridge located on the west side of the St. John River at the mouth of the Shogomoc Stream, 4.3km from Nackawic. It is a perfect walk or hike and a great place to take pictures!
The Shogomoc Walking Bridge
20. City of Fredericton Public Pools
Within Fredericton, there are many options, including four outdoor pools to splash the day away!
21. Fredericton Outdoor Summer Theatre
The Fredericton Outdoor Summer Theatre performs four Shows in Repertory, Monday to Friday at 12:15 at the Cathedral Green.
Calithumpians
22. Geocaching Tour
Geocaching is an emerging tourism activity and the perfect way to explore the roads less traveled, enjoy scenic views, and experience the great outdoors any time of year! Atlantic Canada's Hidden Histories GeoTour highlights various diverse and sometimes relatively unknown histories in Atlantic Canada.
Geocaching
23. Ducks Unlimited Conservation Centre
Are you curious about Canada's wetlands? This is a great way to learn all about regional habitats. This beautiful building sits alongside the Wolastoq (Saint John River) on Union St. It is home to great interactive displays, live animals (including the resident turtle), and enthusiastic staff ready to answer all your questions!
Ducks Unlimited Conservation Centre
24. Hyla Park Nature Reserve
Canada's first amphibian sanctuary is located on Greenwood Dr., a hidden urban gem on Fredericton's north side. It has plenty of animals, unique plants, and hiking trails!
Hyla Park
25. Tour at the New Brunswick Legislative Assembly Building
The NB legislature offers guided tours that provide insights into the building's history, architectural highlights, and the role of the legislative assembly in shaping New Brunswick's future.
Legislative Assembly Building
26. Tour at Government House
This National and Provincial Historic Site, built in 1828, is a place of history, culture, art, and excellence. Free guided tours are available from June to the end of August, Monday through Friday (10am-4pm), or by appointment.
Government House
27. Robert Hanson Art Gallery and Sculpture Garden
The Hanson Art Gallery and Sculpture Garden, located in French Lake, is home to one of the most diverse art collections in New Brunswick!
Robert Hanson
28. Gagetown Farmers Market
The Gagetown Farmers Market is a mix of local artisans, craftspeople, local farmers, and food vendors!
Gagetown Farmers Market
29. Picnic on the Green
The "Green" stretches downriver from Government House to Morell Park / Salamanca Landing. Located beside the Wolastuq (Saint John River), it provides a grassy, tree-shaded area with benches - perfect for a picnic!
The Green
30. Odell Park
One of Canada's Best Old Growth Forests, Odell Park is a 333-acre, year-round park in the heart of Fredericton. It has 16 km of trails, a children's playground, and a disc golf course!
Odell Park
31. Oromocto Marina
Enjoy the beautiful waterfront scenery and welcoming community at the Oromocto Marina, the largest marina along the Wolastoq (Saint John River).
Oromocto Marina
32. Vist Lavenhop Grows
Discover over 150 acres of farm and forest at LavenHop Grows in Cambridge-Narrows! Enjoy a walk through the gardens or on the network of trails.
Lavenhop Grows
33. The Loop Scenic Drive
Stretching across Routes 102 and 105 along the shores of the Saint John River, the Loop Scenic Drive allows you to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life while showcasing some of the most beautiful landscapes New Brunswick has to offer.
Scenic Drives
34. Moxon's Country Pumpkin
This locally owned farm in Maugerville has been in operation since 1960 and is a great place to bring the family. With farm animals, a playground, a bakery, and ice cream, you will come for an hour and spend the day!
Moxon's Country Pumpkin
35. Fishing on the Wolastuq (Saint John River)
Prepare to embark on an unforgettable journey as you cast your line into the pristine waters of the majestic Wolastoq (Saint John River). Experience the ultimate convenience with many accessible fishing spots from boats, kayaks, or shorelines. No license? No problem - enjoy tidal water without the hassle of licensing requirements, fostering a welcoming environment for visitors and locals alike.
Fishing
36. Dirt Jump Skills Park
It is a specialized cycling facility located beside the Scotiabank South Turf. Geared to BMX and free-ride cyclists of all ages and abilities, the park features a small pump track, a large pump track, a cross-country single track, and three independent lines for riders of different skill levels.
Dirt Jump Skills Park
37. Grand Lake Area
A lakeside retreat less than an hour from Fredericton, the Grand Lake area offers tons of fun all year round. Home to Atlantic Canada's largest fresh-water lake, enjoy boating, swimming, fishing, camping, mountain biking, and plenty of winged wildlife!
Grand Lake
38. Guard House Theatre
Take advantage of the Fredericton Fencibles as they take to the Guard House (15 Carleton Street) porch with lively theatre and song,
Monday to Saturday at 11:30 am from July 2 to September 1.
39. Quartermain Earth Science Center
Located within the historic Forestry & Geology building at the University of New Brunswick, the Quartermain Earth Science Centre highlights the beauty and excitement of geology through exhibits, displays, programs, and events.
Quartermain Earth Science Center
40. Recap Night Market
Each week, the Recap Night Market features unique vendors, live music, non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages, local foods and snacks, and so much more! The Recap Night Market takes place every Thursday from 5-10pm from June 5 to September 11 in the Tannery and is free to attend!
Recap Night MarketAnd that's our list! Plan your visit by visiting our calendar of events page to find the next event or experience that suits your interest!