Cool things you didn’t know you could do in a national historic site
Think national historic sites are just for history buffs? Think again! Snap epic selfies in historic spots and sign up for a host of awesome activities guaranteed to please the whole family. From elegant fine dining to murder mystery games, there are so many cool activities to take part in at Parks Canada’s national historic sites across the country. Here are some ideas to inspire you. Start making plans and bookings today!
Dare to be scared
Slip into the shadows of the Halifax Citadel to hear its haunted history on a ghost tour. Explore the passageways and inner chambers of the historic fort to find out if the many legends of ghost hauntings are true.
Sleep under the stars in a teepee
Sleep under the stars in an authentic Blackfoot People’s teepee and dream of the bison roaming free beyond the campsite. Learn to make a fire with a blow tube and flint. Feast on warm-from-the-fire bannock and trapper’s tea.
Uncover clues
Sign up to take part in the annual historical murder mystery at Woodside! Explore the Prime Minister’s house to uncover clues. Interview suspects, track down the culprit, and play for prizes.
Feast with the Papineaus
Get dressed up to step back into a more elegant time of tradition and luxury with a lavish formal dinner at Le Manoir Papineau. Servers in period costume attend your every need as you feast on cuisine inspired by the 19th century created by chefs from Fairmont Le Château Montebello.
Fire the noon day gun
Join the gun crew to learn how to fire the mighty quick-firing three-pound Hotchkiss Gun which is set off daily throughout summer to signal the hour of noon to the people of St John’s. Don’t forget to cover your ears!
Indulge in a whisky tasting
Raise a glass with whisky sommelier, Sylvain Bouffard of "Just a Wee Dram" in a spirited whisky and food pairing. Discover the journey from grain to glass and learn how whisky is linked to Canada’s foundations.
Encounter a séance in time
Join a spooky séance alongside the Live History Theatre Company who play Prime Minister King, his medium, military advisor and household staff in a fun interactive clue-based performance. Discover King’s fascination with contacting the spiritual world and help find his trusty crystal ball!
Journey through time
Help costumed Parks Canada staff who play 19th century Métis settlers with chores on the homestead, riding wooden hobby horses and playing traditional Métis games.