Speciality Museums • Historic Sites
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THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Cape Breton Island
Things to Do in Cape Breton Island
Book these experiences for a close-up look at Cape Breton Island.
Hiking Trails • Scenic Drives
Historic Sites • History Museums
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Historic Sites
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Speciality Museums • Mines
Nature & Wildlife Areas • Hiking Trails
Points of Interest & Landmarks
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Popular Cities in Cape Breton Island
What travellers are saying
- KK78Bay Shore, NY677 contributionsA little out of the way, but it was a nice stop during a long day of driving. It was a sunny day, which made walking around the fortress even nicer - I wouldn't recommend on a rainy day. The history of the fortress is very interesting. I'm sure kids would love the character actors.Written October 24, 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Francois GLongueuil, Canada7 contributionsThis is one of the most beautiful Canadian national park. It is a must...at least once on your lifetime. The rugged coastline, the wildlife and sea life will amaze you.Written September 9, 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- KK78Bay Shore, NY677 contributionsBe prepared for the 184 mile loop around the island because once you start there's only one way out! Gas up, bring water and snacks too - a lot of places were closed. There are places to stop along the trail, for overlooks, hiking, etc. Ingonish Beach was a nice place to rest. The Lone Shieling Hike is a very short path, nice place to stretch your legs if you're not a serious hiker. Bog trail Hike also is along a wooden boardwalk. Bring the bug spray!Written October 24, 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- KK78Bay Shore, NY677 contributionsI had no idea about Alexander Graham Bell beyond him inventing the telephone. He was also a pioneer for his work in the field of deaf education and experiments with flying. So fascinating!Written October 24, 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- BobN06Avondale, PA590 contributionsThis site represents the origin of 30% of the population of Cape Breton. Beautiful well maintained site that recreates some of the buildings that mark early Scottish history on the island. The museum has created a path that follows the history and each stop is manned by guides in period dress doing typical tasks. They engage you in a short description of the setting and their task but the real joy is engaging them is conversation. All are well informed and full of knowledge.Written October 16, 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Jamie H-DPoole, UK687 contributionsA wonderful well groomed hiking / walking loop that goes through dense vegetation and trees on each side before reaching the magnificent viewing boardwalk area overlooking the Cabot Trail. Although you can get gorgeous views from the murmurous view points along the Cabot Trail this is a great way to combine the walk and the views easily.
The first time my husband and I attempted the trail it was closed due to Hurricane Lee, we tried the following day and were lucky enough for it to be open, not only that but we had breaks in the cloud offering full views over the water and trail which were absolutely stunning! The weather is very changeable, one moment it’s clear then it’s cloudy then raining… be prepared for everything but you will not regret going on this trail.
We were lucky enough to be visiting out of season as it was very quiet with only a few people and I read a lot of reviews about crowds in season.Written October 15, 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Jef KWestlake Village, CA112 contributionsOn a rainy day, we cast about for things to do while visiting northern Nova Scotia. We stumbled on this museum. I had not realized that this area had been a major coal mining area. The museum does a very good job presenting information about the area, the mines, the controversies, etc.
The crown jewel, though, the reason you should go, is the reconstructed mine with tour conducted by retired miners. After your group is fitted out with hard hats, you are taken on a tour that requires some walking while hunched over in low ceilinged areas. You can hear the fairly steady whacking of hard hats off the low timbers. A little puckering for the mildly claustrophobic. You will finish this tour feeling as though you have completed a day in the mines.Written November 1, 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - BobN06Avondale, PA590 contributionsEasily accessible off the Cabot Trail and behind the Keltic Lodge. A nice walk up and down small hills along a peninsula jutting off near Ingonish. The north part of the loop section of the trail is closed due to storm damage. Still it was a great out and back walk with beautiful coastal views and some points for bird watching at the point.Written October 16, 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- keisergail23 contributionsWe attended a play in July and one in August and enjoyed and appreciated both. The actors were very skilled and versatile in their acting abilities. We enjoyed the sets and the clever way that the space was used. The props were also brilliantly used in both productions. we will definitely be back next year.Written October 16, 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- LouPOrford, Canada132 contributionsWell... it's popular for a reason! The landscape is beautiful, the village is cute, but it is touristic, expect a lots of people.Written October 10, 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- BobN06Avondale, PA590 contributionsThe trail is a short drive off the Cabot Trail. Not heavily traveled and an easy walk out to the end. A great place to sit on a rock outcropping and find some peace and quiet. Just a nice setting.Written October 16, 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- KK78Bay Shore, NY677 contributionsInteresting road side attraction, nice place to park and stretch your legs for a few along the waterfront.Written October 24, 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- 65kenzieBancroft, Canada4 contributionsThe Cabot trail has many little waterfalls along the side of the road. This is a bonus to the fabulous scenery of the Atlantic Ocean and small fishing villagesWritten October 16, 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- eVe 🇸🇬🇸🇬🇸🇬Singapore, Singapore683 contributionsWe took an hour boat cruise on Bras d'Or Lake for 45 minutes, departing from the Baddeck Waterfront from the Baddeck community wharf. We saw bald eagles along the cruise. The cruise was chilly in the September wind even with the blinds down. We learnt about the history of Baddeck, including Alexander Graham Bell’s summer mansion.Written September 29, 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- BobN06Avondale, PA590 contributionsBeautiful wide beach that runs for a couple of miles. A favorite with visitors who collect sea glass and stones along the surf.Written October 16, 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cape Breton Island
- The top attractions to visit in Cape Breton Island are:
- Cabot Trail
- Sydney Downtown Development Association
- The Big Fiddle
- Cape Breton Highlands National Park
- Skyline Trail
- The best outdoor activities in Cape Breton Island according to Tripadvisor travellers are: See all outdoor activities in Cape Breton Island on Tripadvisor
- The best day trips from Cape Breton Island according to Tripadvisor travellers are:
- Cabot Trail: a Smartphone Audio Driving Tour
- Cabot Trail Bus Tour for Cruise Excursion
- Best of Cape Breton Small Group Tour from Sydney
- Private Tour at Fortress Of Louisburg
- Private Tour at Alexander Graham Bell Museum
- The most popular things to do in Cape Breton Island with children according to Tripadvisor travellers are:
- Cape Breton Miners' Museum
- Cape Breton Highlands National Park
- Bird Island Boat Tour
- Capt. Mark's Whale and Seal Cruise
- Donelda's Puffin Boat Tours
Cape Breton Island Attractions Information
Attractions | 411 |
|---|---|
Attraction Reviews | 22,007 |
Attraction Photos | 17,149 |
Local Time | Friday 4:17 p.m. |