The Montreal Biodome is a museum in Olympic Park that recreates five distinct ecosystems of the Americas under one roof, allowing visitors to walk through immersive environments like a tropical rainforest, the Gulf of St. Lawrence, and the Sub-Antarctic Islands. It houses over 2,500 animals and 800 plant species, offering an educational and family-friendly experience focused on nature, conservation, and the complexity of natural habitats. It's part of the "Space for Life" complex, which also includes the Insectarium, Planetarium, and Botanical Garden.
Our favorite mini vacay spot! Where we’ll be mini-mooning! :)
Nordik Spa-Nature in Chelsea, Quebec, is North America's largest spa, offering a Nordic-inspired wellness experience with numerous outdoor baths, saunas, and relaxation areas set in nature near Gatineau Park. It provides thermotherapy, massages, body treatments, and unique features like the Källa saltwater flotation pool, alongside restaurants and lounges for a full day of relaxation and rejuvenation.
Vegan, gluten and nut free, kosher bakery; our wedding cake makers! :)
The Diefenbunker: Canada's Cold War Museum is a four-story underground bunker near Ottawa, built to house the Canadian government during a nuclear attack, and is now a National Historic Site and museum. It offers immersive tours, exhibitions, and escape rooms that explore Canada's Cold War history through preserved government rooms, communication centers, and living quarters. Visitors can explore the bunker's secret history, including the War Cabinet Room, Prime Minister's Suite, and Bank of Canada Vault, making it a unique destination for history enthusiasts.
Tiradito is a popular Peruvian-Japanese restaurant in downtown Montreal known for its vibrant atmosphere, creative cocktails, and shareable small plates, particularly its namesake tiradito (sashimi-style fish) and ceviche. It features a central bar with seating for watching chefs work, offering a lively, industrial-chic setting with tropical decor. The menu focuses on fusion dishes like octopus dumplings, duck skewers, and Pisco Sours, making it a go-to spot for a fun, flavorful dining experience.
La Ronde is Quebec's largest amusement park, located on Saint Helen's Island in Montreal's Parc Jean-Drapeau, and operated by Six Flags. Originally built for Expo '67, it features over 40 rides, shows, and attractions.
The John Brown Farm State Historic Site in North Elba, near Lake Placid, New York, preserves the home and burial site of the abolitionist John Brown, featuring his farmhouse, barn, and graves of Brown and his followers. (Real ones know the bride spent countless hours going through various historical documents & books for her social sciences graduation portfolio project on John Brown).
High Falls Gorge is a privately owned 22-acre nature park in Wilmington, NY, near Lake Placid, featuring four breathtaking waterfalls along the Ausable River. It offers well-maintained, accessible steel bridges, walkways, and groomed trails for year-round, self-guided tours.
Singer Castle, located on Dark Island in the Thousand Islands region of New York, is a historic mansion built in 1905 for Frederick Bourne, president of the Singer Sewing Machine Company, and is known for its secret passageways and original furnishings. Originally called "The Towers," it served as a summer home and is now a popular tourist attraction offering guided tours of its four floors, including the Great Hall, library, and bedrooms, with options for overnight stays in the Royal Suite.
Sackets Harbor is a historic village in Jefferson County, New York, located on Lake Ontario's Black River Bay, known for its significant role in the War of 1812 and as a major 19th-century shipping center. Today, it's a New York State Heritage Area with historic sites like the Sackets Harbor Battlefield State Historic Site, charming shops, waterfront dining, and outdoor activities, offering a blend of history and modern recreation.
Alexandria Bay is a village located in the Thousand Islands region on the St. Lawrence River, known as a boating and tourist destination with attractions like Boldt Castle and numerous boat tours. It's a hub for water activities, fishing, and seasonal festivals, offering a mix of natural beauty and historic sites. The area is popular for its scenic views, access to islands, and proximity to the Canadian border.
Boldt Castle and the Boldt Yacht House are major tourist attractions in Alexandria Bay, New York, located on Heart Island and Wellesley Island, respectively, in the Thousand Islands region. The castle is a Rhineland-style mansion built by millionaire George C. Boldt as a gift for his wife, Louise, but construction stopped after her death in 1904; it was later restored by the Thousand Islands Bridge Authority. The Yacht House, a separate structure across the water, houses a collection of antique boats and is also open to the public.
St. Lawrence University’s bookstore is a cozy staple in the community with good coffee, a wide variety of books and unique gifts!
Gatineau Park, a 361-square-kilometre federal park in Quebec managed by the National Capital Commission, is a major year-round outdoor destination located 15 minutes from Ottawa. It offers extensive hiking, biking, swimming, and skiing, featuring popular spots like the Champlain Lookout and Mackenzie King Estate. The park is known for its biodiversity, scenic landscapes, and as a top destination in the region.
The Seaway Visitor Center at Eisenhower Lock in Massena, NY, is a free maritime museum and tourist attraction where visitors can watch massive ships transit the lock, learn about the St. Lawrence Seaway's history and engineering through interactive exhibits, and use observation decks for close-up views. It features educational displays, a theater, ship piloting simulations, and is open seasonally with guides available to explain the process.
Our favorite restaurant!
Two words. Maple. Latte. Enough said
Great place to stop and grab organic & allergen free snacks!
We can’t even eat here because of my allergies but people love this place!
I can’t promise you’ll win anything but I can promise you that the free soda machine on the casino floor has the best brisk raspberry tea you’ll ever have for some reason.
Think Canadian Barnes & Noble. This place is magical.
A massive mall full of essential Canadian retailers and familiar favorites. A stop by the Lego store to create custom Legos and popping into Laura Secord for maple chocolate is a must. Places that aren’t around in the states anymore can still be found in this area such as Toys R Us and Party City if you’re a nostalgia kinda guy.
Shop local while you’re in town at the brides favorite shop! Willow Tree is a multi-faceted business that combines a florist, nursery, and gift shop, offering a wide variety of items from plants and flowers to unique gifts from local artists, including jewelry, pottery, and gourmet foods.
Best bbq around and our wedding caterers!