Moncton is one of Canada’s fastest-growing cities, and it’s not hard to see why. This small but mighty city in southeastern New Brunswick is bilingual, vibrant, and packed with local charm. It also ranked #1 in MoneySense’s 2024 Where to Buy Real Estate report, and #4 in 2025.
You’ll find walkable streets, a buzzing downtown, and quick access to parks, trails, and coastlines. Plus, Moncton’s real estate prices remain well below the national average. From weekend visits to major moves, there are plenty of things to do in Moncton that make it easy to fall in love with the area.
What is Greater Moncton?
It includes Moncton, Dieppe, and Riverview–a tri-city region with a population of about 160,000 and growing.
- Moncton is the region’s urban centre. It offers easy access to schools, shops, transit, and healthcare. Many of the region’s jobs and services are based there.
- Dieppe is known for being family-focused. It has great parks, French-language schools, and new residential developments. It’s one of New Brunswick’s youngest and fastest-growing communities.
- Riverview sits across the river and offers a quieter, more suburban feel. It’s ideal for families or retirees looking for green space, walking trails, and a slower pace.
Whether you’re looking for a starter home, a rental property, or a quiet place to retire, these three areas give homebuyers a range of choices.
Is Moncton Affordable?
Yes! According to the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA), the average home price in Greater Moncton is nearly 46% lower than the national average as of March 2025.
Explore Downtown Moncton
Downtown Moncton is where the city comes alive. The Main Street area is home to pubs, breweries, local cafés, and award-winning restaurants. You can grab a pint at Tide & Boar Gastropub, catch a concert at the Capitol Theatre, or explore the exhibits at the Resurgo Place museum.
For nature in the city, Riverfront Park runs along the Petitcodiac River. It’s a favourite spot for walking, jogging, or cycling, with trails connecting downtown to residential areas. During warmer months, outdoor patios, food trucks, and festivals create a lively, welcoming vibe.
Buyers interested in city living will find modern condos and renovated heritage buildings downtown, perfect for professionals or downsizers looking for walkability and culture in one spot.
Nature Near Moncton
Nature is one of Moncton’s biggest lifestyle perks. You can hike forest trails, kayak between sea stacks, or spend the day at the beach. Here are some of the top outdoor things to do near the city:
1. Hopewell Rocks
Located about 40 minutes south of Moncton, Hopewell Rocks Provincial Park is one of New Brunswick’s most photographed landmarks. Carved by centuries of tides, these towering sea stacks rise from the ocean floor and are accessible by foot during low tide. At high tide, you can kayak between them for a completely different view.
This part of the Bay of Fundy experiences the world’s highest tides, rising up to 16 metres. The park includes walking trails, a visitor centre, and guided tours that explain the region’s geology. It’s open seasonally from mid-May to mid-October.
2. Irishtown Nature Park
Just 10 minutes from downtown, Irishtown Nature Park is one of the largest urban parks in Canada. Spanning over 2,200 acres, it offers more than 20 km of trails through forests, wetlands, and around a reservoir.
During spring and summer, the park is popular for hiking, mountain biking, and bird watching–over 100 species have been spotted here! In the winter, the trails are transformed for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. It’s free to enter, dog-friendly, and open year-round, making it a go-to for outdoor lovers in the city.
3. Fundy Trail Parkway & Parlee Beach
The Fundy Trail Parkway, about 90 minutes from Moncton, offers 30 km of coastal road with panoramic views, lookout points, waterfalls, and hiking trails. It’s part of the larger UNESCO-designated Fundy Biosphere Reserve, and a great way to explore New Brunswick’s wild coastline.
If beach days are more your thing, Parlee Beach in Shediac is just 25 minutes away. It’s known for having some of the warmest saltwater in Canada and is a local favourite for swimming, beach volleyball, and summer festivals like the Shediac Lobster Festival.
Family Fun and Attractions
Moncton is packed with activities for kids, teens, and parents. At the top of the list is Magnetic Hill Zoo, the largest in Atlantic Canada. It has over 70 species and conservation programs. Right next door is Magic Mountain, a seasonal water park with slides, a lazy river, and mini-golf.
For adventurous families, TreeGO Mactaquac has zip lines and climbing courses for all skill levels. In the winter, Centennial Park transforms into a snowy playground with sledding hills, cross-country ski trails, and an outdoor skating oval.
Moncton also hosts family-friendly festivals like the Atlantic Nationals Car Show and the Dieppe Kite International. And thanks to relatively low home prices, families often find more space for their dollar–think backyards, basements, and quiet neighbourhoods close to schools.
Events, Food, and Local Culture
Moncton’s bilingual identity adds to its food and arts scenes. You’ll find Acadian-inspired cuisine, French and English theatre, and live music in both languages. The Frye Festival, Canada’s only bilingual literary event, draws authors and readers from across the country.
For foodies, the Moncton and Dieppe Farmers’ Markets serve up local produce, handmade goods, and ready-to-eat treats year-round. Craft beer fans can sample brews at places like O’Creek Brewing or Pump House Brewery.
The city also supports a growing number of local galleries, performance spaces, and music festivals. These events are a great way for newcomers to connect with the community and feel at home fast.
Why Moncton Might Be the Right Move
Moncton offers real value–financially and in quality of life. It’s one of the few places in Canada where you can still afford a detached home near a good school, drive to the beach in under an hour, and walk to dinner and a show.
With rising housing costs in many parts of the country, Moncton provides residents with room to breathe and grow. You’re able to achieve both affordability and sustainability here.
Looking for things to do in Moncton? Chances are, they’ll make you want to stay. Search your dream home on Zoocasa.
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