A Solo Summer Guide to Miramichi, New Brunswick
- Lyn (aka Jazz)
- 4 days ago
- 6 min read
On my cross-Canada road trip, I left the province of Quebec and drove to the northeast coast of New Brunswick to spend some time on the banks of the Miramichi. Known globally as the "cathedral" of Atlantic salmon fishing, this is a collection of communities along a river that flows both with and against the tide. Miramichi has been built on the resilience of the Acadians, the grit of the Irish and Scottish settlers, and the deep, enduring roots of the Mi’kmaq people. Today's post will explore some of the best things to do during the summer travel season in Miramichi, New Brunswick.
The history here stretches from the Indigenous beginnings through the golden age of wooden shipbuilding and onto the legendary lumber camps that once fueled the local economy. Today, the economy has shifted toward service and eco-tourism, but the culture remains delightfully "old school." The climate in the summer is exactly what a road tripper craves: warm, humid days hovering between 20°C and 28°C, perfect for catching a breeze off the Miramichi Bay.
As I guided Wanda—my trusted Sprinter campervan—across the provincial line, the landscape shifted. The rolling, structured hills of Quebec gave way to the lush, wild, river-carved valleys of New Brunswick. This stop was part of my Solo Journey from Coast to Coast, during which I had travelled from the Pacific coast of British Columbia to the Atlantic coast.
Navigating Miramichi solo in a campervan is a dream. There is a sense of safety and genuine curiosity from the locals that makes a solo woman traveller feel immediately at ease. I found myself slowing down, matching the pace of the water, and realizing that while I had seen many rivers on this trip, the Miramichi had a soul all its own.
Before you dive deep into the river life, don't forget to check out my Ultimate New Brunswick road trip guide for other hidden gems in the province, and if you're starting to feel a bit peckish, my Guide to Eating Your Way Around Canada’s Eastern Provinces will point you toward the best local dishes.
Table of Contents
Miramichi Accommodations
Choosing where to park your van or lay your head in Miramichi depends largely on which "side" of the river calls to you. The city is geographically divided into several districts, each offering a distinct flavour and proximity to certain sights.
Newcastle District: If you prefer being in the centre of the action, consider the Rodd Miramichi River Resort. It’s for those who want a stunning river view and immediate walking access to the shops of downtown Newcastle and the lively Ritchie Wharf. It’s a bit of a splurge, but the convenience of having dinner and a sunset stroll right at your doorstep may be worth it.
Chatham District (Quiet & Residential): For a quieter stay, the Chatham side offers charming options like the Governor’s Mansion Inn and numerous B&Bs. This district is a residential neighbourhood with beautiful heritage homes and is perfect for an early morning visit to Middle Island.
The Great Outdoors: For my fellow van-lifers and campers, the Enclosure Campground is a great choice. Located at the junction of the Northwest and Main Southwest Miramichi rivers, it is incredibly cost-effective for solo travellers. For those without a tent or RV, the campground also offers self-catering bunkies to rent. Here you get direct access to some of the best hiking trails in the region and a front-row seat to the river's natural beauty, while enjoying a safe, community-oriented atmosphere.
The 2-Day Miramichi, New Brunswick Summer Itinerary
To truly experience Miramichi, you have to embrace the river's duality—the quiet, reflective historical sites and the vibrant, music-filled gathering spots. This two-day route is designed to help you loop through the city’s most iconic landmarks without feeling rushed, leaving plenty of room for those special moments that make solo road trips so special.
Day 1: History and Harbours
Our first day focuses on the city's roots—the stories of those who arrived by sea and the legacies they left behind in the grand homes of the Newcastle district.
Morning: Middle Island Irish Historical Park
This peaceful island, connected by a short causeway, carries a heavy but beautiful history. During the mid-1800s, it served as a quarantine station for Irish immigrants fleeing the Great Famine. Today, the Middle Island Irish Historical Park is a serene place with walking trails and monuments honouring those who sought a new life here. Walking the riverbank perimeter is a fabulous way to start your visit.
Address: 2345 Water St.
Visitor Info: Open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM during the summer months. Entry is typically $5–$10.
Lunch: Historic Downtown (Newcastle)
Head back across the river to the Newcastle town square or across the river to Chatham. The downtown core is remarkably well-preserved, featuring red-brick facades and local boutiques. Take some time to wander and browse. I highly recommend grabbing a table at a local pub to try some Atlantic salmon or a bowl of seafood chowder.
Afternoon: Historic Beaverbrook House
Step into the Victorian world of Max Aitken, better known as Lord Beaverbrook. The Beaverbrook House is a stunning example of period architecture, and the guided tours provide a fascinating look at how a boy from a small New Brunswick town went on to change the world.
Address: 518 King George Hwy.
Visitor Info: Tours are usually available Tuesday through Saturday, 10 AM to 4 PM. Admission is approx. $10.
Ritchie Wharf Park
As the sun begins to dip, make your way to Ritchie Wharf. This converted shipyard is now a vibrant waterfront boardwalk filled with local artisans and ice cream shops. It’s the social heart of the city in the summer.
Address: 84 Lemon Hill Rd.
Visitor Info: Admission to the park is free.
Evening: Miramichi Kitchen Party
In this part of the world, music isn't a performance; it's a conversation. Look for a "Kitchen Party" or a Ceilidh. Often held at the Beaverbrook Kin Centre, these gatherings feature local fiddlers and plenty of storytelling.
Day 2: Islands and Icons
On day two, we venture further out to explore the river’s mouth and its storied islands. This leg of the trip feels more adventurous, involving a bit of water travel and a scenic drive toward the bay.
Morning: Beaubears Island Shipbuilding National Historic Site
Experience the river from a different perspective by taking a small ferry or a voyageur canoe to Beaubears Island. This site is unique for its dual significance: it was a refuge for Acadians during the Expulsion and later became a premier wooden shipbuilding yard. Costumed guides bring these eras to life with hauntingly beautiful storytelling. Beaubears was a highlight of my New Brunswick visit.
Address: Interpretive Centre at 351 Main St.
Visitor Info: Tours run from 9 AM to 5 PM. Cost is approx. $15–$20, which includes the ferry transport to the island.
Afternoon: New Brunswick Aviation Museum
Located at the former CFB Chatham, this museum is a gem for history buffs. It celebrates the province's rich military aviation history, housing restored aircraft and artifacts that tell the stories of local heroes. The Aviation Museum was a wonderful indoor stop on a day when the afternoon sun got too intense. Unfortunately, my phone battery died, so I have no photos.
Address: 12 McGraw Ct.
Visitor Info: Open 10 AM to 4 PM seasonally. Admission is approx. $10.
Grant Beach Range Lighthouses
End your touring day with a short, scenic drive to the Grant Beach Range Lighthouses. These two "pepper-shaker" style structures—the front and rear range lights—are quintessential maritime icons. While you can't go inside, they are perfectly positioned for photography against the backdrop of the Miramichi Bay. It’s the perfect place to sit on the shore and watch the lobster boats return home.
Location: Grant Beach, approximately 15 minutes from the city centre.
Visitor Info: Free to view and photograph from the exterior.
Bonus Stop: Metepenagiag Heritage Park
If you have a little extra time, drive 20 minutes west to Metepenagiag. This state-of-the-art facility explores 3,000 years of Mi’kmaq history at the site of two National Historic Sites of Canada. I believe it is an essential Indigenous perspective on the river you've been following all day.
Final Thoughts
As I sat by the river on my final evening in Miramichi, I realized that the true magic lies in the gaps between scheduled activities. It’s in the way a local will stop their car just to give you directions with a smile, or the way the bilingual charm makes every conversation feel like a bridge between cultures. There is a profound sense of peace here. I encourage you to put down your map for an hour, grab a coffee at the wharf, and simply listen to the river.
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