21 Best Places And Things To Do in Harbour Grace, Canada

Harbour Grace is a historic town located on the Avalon Peninsula in Newfoundland, Canada. It is known for its rich maritime history and scenic beauty. Here are some of the best places to visit and things to do in Harbour Grace:

1. Conception Bay Museum

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Learn about the town’s history and maritime heritage through exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays at the Conception Bay Museum. It offers insight into the region’s fishing, shipbuilding, and aviation history.

2. Cathedral of Immaculate Conception

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Visit this impressive Roman Catholic cathedral, built in the mid-1800s, to appreciate its stunning architecture and historical significance.

3. Spirit of Harbour Grace

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The Spirit of Harbour Grace is a captivating historical site located in Newfoundland, Canada. It commemorates the role of Harbour Grace in aviation history, particularly the pioneering transatlantic flight attempts by Amelia Earhart and Alcock and Brown. Through exhibits and artifacts, visitors can explore the daring adventures of these aviation pioneers and the town’s significant contributions to early aviation achievements. The site offers an insightful journey into the past, celebrating the courage and innovation that shaped aviation’s evolution.

4. Visit Spaniard’s Bay

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Just a short drive away, you can visit Spaniard’s Bay, another picturesque town known for its beautiful coastline and hiking opportunities.

5. Harbour Grace Court House

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Harbour Grace Courthouse is a two and a half storey stone institutional building that stands at 2 Harvey St. in Harbour Grace, NL. Distinguished by a large central window flanked by two entry doors on its upper level accessed by a split staircase, it reflects the form and classically-inspired style of the Georgian era typical of many British colonial courthouses of the period

6. Belle View Manor Inn

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Nestled in the historic district of Harbour Grace, Belle View Manor Inn is within 4.2 km of SS Kyle. This Harbour Grace inn has views of the garden and features WiFi throughout the property.

7. Hawthorne Cottage National Historic Site

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Explore the Hawthorne Cottage, the birthplace of Amelia Earhart, the famous aviator. The site provides insights into her early life and achievements.

8. Spectacle Head Trail

 

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Embark on a hike along the Spectacle Head Trail, which offers breathtaking views of the coastline and the town of Harbour Grace.

9. Salmon Cove Sands

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Relax and unwind at Salmon Cove Sands, a beautiful sandy beach just a short drive from Harbour Grace.

10. St. Paul’s Anglican Church

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Visit St. Paul’s Anglican Church, a historic church with beautiful architecture and a rich history dating back to the early 1800s.

11. Wilcox Gardens

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Enjoy a peaceful walk through Wilcox Gardens, a well-maintained green space with lovely flowerbeds and walking paths.

12. Harbour Grace Railway Station

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Explore the old Harbour Grace Railway Station, a historic building that played a significant role in the town’s transportation history.

13. Hotel Harbour Grace

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Located in the historical district of Harbor Grace, this property provides daily breakfast. Free Wi-Fi is included in all rooms and a dining room is on site. Shades of the Past Museum is 8.1 mi away.

14. Coughlan United Church

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Visit Grace United Church, an impressive Gothic Revival-style church with beautiful stained glass windows and a rich history dating back to the 19th century.

15. Harbour Grace Heritage District

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Take a self-guided walking tour through the Harbour Grace Heritage District, where you’ll find well-preserved heritage buildings and charming streets.

16. Cupids Legacy Centre

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While not in Harbour Grace itself, the Cupids Legacy Centre in nearby Cupids is worth a visit. It showcases the history of the first English settlement in Canada, dating back to 1610.

17. SS Kyle Shipwreck

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Explore the remains of the SS Kyle, a historic shipwreck located just off the coast of Harbour Grace. It serves as a unique diving site and offers an opportunity to learn about the area’s maritime history.

18. Gull Island Bird Sanctuary

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Take a boat tour to Gull Island Bird Sanctuary, a protected area known for its diverse bird population, including Atlantic Puffins, Razorbills, and Black Guillemots.

19. Wildland Tours

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Consider joining a guided nature tour with Wildland Tours, which offers excursions to discover the local flora, fauna, and geological features of the region.

20. Iceberg and Whale Watching

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Depending on the season, you might be able to spot icebergs and whales from the shores of Harbour Grace. Alternatively, book a guided boat tour for a closer experience.

21. Day Trip to Bay Roberts

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Take a short drive to the neighboring town of Bay Roberts, where you can visit the Cable Building, the Bay Roberts Heritage Society Museum, and the Shoreline Heritage Walking Trail.