Fredericton, the capital city of New Brunswick, Canada, is a charming and historic city with a rich cultural heritage.
The city is located on the St. John River and offers an excellent mix of modern amenities and natural beauty.
Let’s explore some fascinating facts about Fredericton that make it an exciting and unique destination for visitors and locals alike.
Keep some of these in mind if you’re visiting and looking for things to do in Fredericton.
Let’s jump right into it!
Fredericton is the capital of New Brunswick
Fredericton is the capital of the Canadian province of New Brunswick. The city is located in the western part of the province and has a population of approximately 60,000 people.
Fredericton was founded in 1785
Fredericton was founded in 1785 by British Loyalists who were fleeing the American Revolution. The city was named after Frederick, Duke of York, who was the second son of King George III.
Fredericton has a rich military history
Fredericton has a rich military history, dating back to the 1700s. The city has been home to several military regiments, including the Royal New Brunswick Regiment and the North Shore Regiment.
Fredericton is home to the University of New Brunswick
The University of New Brunswick, one of Canada’s oldest universities, is located in Fredericton. The university was founded in 1785 and offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
Fredericton is home to the Beaverbrook Art Gallery
The Beaverbrook Art Gallery, located in downtown Fredericton, is one of Canada’s finest art galleries. The gallery features works by Canadian and international artists, as well as a collection of works by the renowned artist Salvador Dali.
Fredericton is known for its vibrant arts scene
Fredericton has a vibrant arts scene, with a number of galleries, theaters, and performance venues. The city is home to several annual festivals, including the Harvest Jazz and Blues Festival and the Silver Wave Film Festival.
Fredericton is a cyclist-friendly city
Fredericton is a cyclist-friendly city, with a network of bike lanes and trails throughout the city. The city also hosts several annual cycling events, including the Fredericton Bike Week. You can even rent an electric scooter in Fredericton and explore.
Fredericton has a strong craft brewing industry
Fredericton has a thriving craft brewing industry, with several local breweries producing award-winning beers. The city is home to several annual beer festivals, including the Fredericton Craft Beer Festival.
Fredericton is a winter sports destination
Fredericton is a winter sports destination, with several ski resorts located within driving distance of the city. The city also offers outdoor ice skating and cross-country skiing opportunities.
Fredericton has a lively farmers market
The Fredericton Farmers Market, located in downtown Fredericton, is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. The market offers fresh produce, baked goods, crafts, and more.
Fredericton is home to the Fredericton Playhouse
The Fredericton Playhouse, located in downtown Fredericton, is a state-of-the-art performance venue that hosts a wide range of events throughout the year. There are plenty of other Fredericton events you won’t want to miss.
Fredericton is known for its fall foliage
Fredericton is known for its stunning fall foliage, with vibrant red and gold leaves blanketing the city’s parks and forests.
Fredericton is home to the Kings Landing Historical Settlement
The Kings Landing Historical Settlement, located just outside Fredericton, is a living history museum that recreates life in 19th-century New Brunswick.
Fredericton is a great destination for foodies
Fredericton is a great destination for foodies, with a wide range of restaurants offering everything from seafood to craft beers to locally sourced produce. The city also hosts several annual food festivals, including the Fredericton Food and Wine Festival.
Fredericton is surrounded by natural beauty
Fredericton is surrounded by natural beauty, with the St. John River and several parks and nature reserves located within the city limits.
Fredericton is a popular destination for canoeing and kayaking
The St. John River, which runs through Fredericton, is a popular destination for canoeing and kayaking. The city also offers several parks and lakes that are ideal for water-based activities.
Fredericton is home to the New Brunswick Sports Hall of Fame
The New Brunswick Sports Hall of Fame, located in Fredericton, celebrates the achievements of athletes and sports teams from the province.
Fredericton is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts
Fredericton is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing, hunting, and more. Check out our helpful guide on hiking in Fredericton.
Fredericton is home to the Fredericton Botanic Garden
The Fredericton Botanic Garden, located on the campus of the University of New Brunswick, features a wide range of plants and gardens, including a Japanese garden and a medicinal garden.
Fredericton is a popular destination for birdwatchers
Fredericton is a popular destination for birdwatchers, with several parks and nature reserves located within the city limits that are home to a variety of bird species.
Fredericton is known for its historic architecture
Fredericton is known for its historic architecture, with several buildings dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. The city also has a number of heritage properties that have been preserved and restored.
Fredericton is a multicultural city
Fredericton is a multicultural city, with a diverse population that includes Indigenous people, Anglophones, Francophones, and newcomers from around the world.
Fredericton has a strong sense of community
Fredericton has a strong sense of community, with several community organizations and events that bring people together throughout the year. Check out our post – is Fredericton a good place to live?
Fredericton is a sustainable city
Fredericton is committed to sustainability, with several initiatives aimed at reducing the city’s environmental footprint. The city has a number of bike lanes and trails, and many residents use alternative modes of transportation to get around.
Fredericton is a welcoming city
Fredericton is known for its friendly and welcoming people, making it a great place to visit or call home.
The city’s strong sense of community, rich cultural heritage, and natural beauty make it an excellent destination for anyone looking for a unique and unforgettable experience.
You can read more on our post – is Fredericton worth visiting?
You Need to Visit Fredericton!
Fredericton is a city that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From its rich military heritage to its vibrant arts scene and thriving craft brewing industry, there is something for everyone in this charming Canadian city.
Whether you’re a foodie looking to explore the local cuisine or an outdoor enthusiast seeking adventure on the river or in the nearby parks, Fredericton has plenty to offer.
The city’s commitment to sustainability and strong sense of community make it a welcoming and inclusive destination that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Overall, Fredericton is a hidden gem that is worth exploring for its many fascinating facts and diverse experiences.
