Posted on Wednesday, June 24 2026
Winters are long in Canada, and by the time summer finally rolls around, leaving is the last thing on anyone's mind. The pull of the warmer months, paired with economic uncertainty and rising travel costs, has more Canadians considering a domestic holiday this summer.
Families are turning to their own backyard, and with so many unique experiences awaiting in the Atlantic provinces, there's never been a better time to explore a different kind of ‘all-inclusive’ holiday with Premiere Suites - the kind that gives your family the comfort, space, and flexibility to holiday on your own terms, and spend where the money truly matters.
According to a recent TD study, 35% of Canadians are planning to spend less this summer - and domestic travel is one of the smartest ways to do it without forgoing a well deserved vacation. Atlantic Canada delivers exceptional value: stunning coastlines, rich history, and unforgettable food, all without currency exchange fees or overseas airfares.
Direct flights from central and western Canada into Halifax, St. John's, and other Atlantic hub cities make the region surprisingly accessible. For families travelling with young children or pets, a non-stop flight means far less stress.
Nearly 80% of Canadians plan to support local Canadian businesses this summer (TD Bank Group, 2026). A family holiday in the Atlantic means your travel dollars help support local restaurants, guides and communities.
Staying within Canada means fewer complications, familiar healthcare, and the reassurance of never being too far from home. For parents who work remotely, it's also easier than ever to extend a stay into a ‘workation’ - no international work restrictions, no challenging time zones to navigate.
More travelling professionals are extending business trips into family getaways. A week-long work trip can easily become a family weekend away, reducing overall travel spend while giving everyone a chance to explore a new city or destination together.
The East Coast has a feeling that's genuinely hard to put into words. You have to experience it to understand why Atlantic Canada belongs on any serious travel list, not just in Canada, but anywhere in the world. Here's what makes it so special.
The food scene in the Atlantic goes far beyond dining out. The East Coast delivers on an abundance of lobster, scallops and fish pulled straight from the sea. Local farms supply fresh vegetables that make every meal, whether you're eating out or cooking in your suite, something special.
The warmth of East Coast locals is something everyone should experience at least once. Within just a few hours, visitors often feel completely at home. It's the kind of hospitality that stays with you for years.
From wildlife and scenic road trips to wildly underrated National Parks, Atlantic Canada is a wanderer’s paradise. Children of all ages will be in awe of the unique discoveries and countless attractions awaiting explorers of all ages.
Atlantic Canada is one of the most historically rich regions in North America, from Acadian heritage and Mi'kmaq culture to UNESCO World Heritage Sites and centuries-old fortifications. Every city tells a story, and exploring it together is an experience families don't forget.
Like much of Canada, Atlantic Canada truly comes alive in summer. Halifax, St. John's, and every town in between seem to shake off a long winter and quite literally burst into song and dance.
One of Canada’s most charming cities, St. John’s is known for its vibrant, jellybean row lined streets, harbour views that just don’t quit, and warm hospitality.
Top family experiences:
· Whale watching — one of the world's best spots, with sightings running through to September
· Spend a day exploring the iconic St. John’s coastline, from the colourful, cascading buildings in The Battery, all the way up to Signal Hill Historic Site.
· Let your imagination run free at The Rooms, Newfoundland’s largest public cultural space
Check out everything there is to see and do in St. John’s right here.
Where to stay: Signal Hill Gate, Macpherson, 57 Harvey Road
Halifax is the perfect family getaway, blending coastal adventures, rich history, beautiful beaches and fun-filled attractions.
Top family experiences:
· Halifax Citadel National Historic Site — watch the Changing of the Guards Ceremony
· Discovery Centre — hands-on interactive activities designed for curious minds
· Peggy's Cove day trip — the experience goes well beyond the iconic lighthouse
Discover everything there is to see and do in the Halifax Visitor Guide.
Where to stay: Maple Commercial
Fredericton is a welcoming riverside destination perfect for families, offering a relaxed pace, outdoor adventures, and plenty of interactive experiences.
Top family experiences:
· Wander the riverside trails along the Saint John River and through Odell Park’s forest paths
· Discover interactive exhibits at Science East Science Centre, designed to spark curiosity for all ages
· Enjoy local flavours, crafts, and community spirit at the lively Boyce Farmers Market
Check out the Top 10 Things to Do in Fredericton.
Where to stay: The Creighton
We all know the classic all-inclusive formula well - bundled packages, fixed itineraries, one-size-fits-all resort life. But in today's economic climate, families are looking for something different: the comfort of a full home, the flexibility to set their own pace, and the ability to choose where their money actually goes.
Premiere Suites offers exactly that.
Eating out three times a day with a family can add up fast, and it can quietly become one of the biggest costs on a family holiday. With a fully equipped kitchen in your suite, you can pick up fresh Atlantic seafood and local produce, cook together as a family, and redirect that budget toward unique family experiences.
Premiere Suites pricing is clear and upfront. There are no resort fees, daily add-ons, or surprise charges when it comes time to check out. Booking a furnished suites means:
· Full access to property amenities, from pools to common areas
· WiFi and cable, so everyone can unwind on their own terms
· In-suite laundry, because real life doesn't pause for vacation
Separate sleeping and living areas mean more space for families. When you have room to breathe, the whole holiday feels different.
Not every family holiday needs to be a two-week commitment. Premiere Suites offers short-term rentals across Atlantic Canada with flexible minimum stays. Many properties offer bookings from a minimum of 3 or 7 nights.
· Book early. Summer is high season in the Atlantic provinces, so it’s always best to book ahead.
· Mix structured and unstructured time. Balance whale watching and historic sites with slower days exploring neighbourhoods, markets and the coastline.
· Use your kitchen. Premiere Suites’ fully equipped kitchens are built for exactly this. Pick up fresh local seafood and produce, then save the restaurant budget for a special excursion or must-try dining experience.
· Go beyond the cities. The coastal trails, fishing villages, and small towns of Atlantic Canada are just as memorable as the urban centres, and often far less crowded.
· Pack for the whole family. Suites come fully furnished but bring personal touches. Favourite snacks, games for evenings in, and layers for cooler coastal nights.
Is Atlantic Canada suitable for families with young children?
Absolutely. The region offers activities for all ages — from whale watching and beaches to historic sites and local festivals — in a safe, welcoming environment that's easy to navigate.
How does the cost compare to an international holiday?
Significantly more affordable. No international airfare, no currency exchange, and the ability to cook meals in your suite means a family can enjoy a full week (or even longer) at a fraction of the cost of an equivalent overseas trip.
Why choose Premiere Suites over a hotel?
Space, comfort, and value. Separate bedrooms, full kitchens, and proper living areas give families room to actually relax - something a hotel room simply can't offer, especially when travelling with children.
How long do I need to book for?
Premiere Suites offers flexible short-term rentals across Atlantic Canada, with many properties available from as little as 3 nights and 7-night options widely available. Whether you're planning a long weekend or a longer summer stay, there's an option to suit.
When is the best time to visit Atlantic Canada?
June through September. The weather is warm, events are in full swing, and the region is at its most vibrant. Whale watching runs through to September, making late summer a particularly rewarding time to visit.
Atlantic Canada Family New Brunswick Newfoundland Nova Scotia