Riverfront Park

Riverfront Park is a picturesque public space stretching along the banks of the Petitcodiac River in the heart of Moncton. This location is considered one of the most charming spots that Canada is proud of, blending natural beauty with modern urban infrastructure.

The main highlight of the park is the opportunity to witness a unique natural phenomenon known as the tidal bore. Due to the incredible power of the tides in the Bay of Fundy, the river water begins to flow backward twice a day, creating a spectacular wave that attracts tourists from around the world.

The park is a key part of the Riverfront Trail system, offering guests 5 km of well-maintained paths. It is an ideal spot for those seeking tranquility amidst greenery or looking for active recreation while enjoying river views and the city's modern architectural landmarks.

To plan your visit to Riverfront Park, you can use the following contact information. The city administration maintains the area in perfect condition, ensuring a comfortable experience for all guests.

Riverfront Park provides all the conditions for both active and quiet recreation. Visitors can go for a run or a bike ride along the 5-kilometer multi-purpose trail that connects Moncton with neighboring districts. Families with children will find modern playgrounds, and extreme sports fans will appreciate the local skate park.

The central event of any visit is heading to the observation deck to watch the tidal bore. This rare sight, where the river reverses its flow, occurs strictly on schedule twice a day. Along the route, you can also find various cultural sites, including the Irish Families Memorial, the Joseph Salter monument, and the Garden of Honor.

During the summer, the park becomes the main venue for city festivals and Canada Day celebrations, coming alive with music and a festive atmosphere. In winter, the park transforms into a snowy wonderland: several paths are cleared for walking, allowing you to enjoy the stark but majestic beauty of the winter Petitcodiac.

The park is located on Assomption Boulevard, right in the heart of the downtown area. If you are staying at one of the central hotels, reaching the waterfront is a pleasant walk that takes no more than 5–10 minutes.

For those who prefer to drive, parking areas are available along the boulevard and at key entrance points. Additionally, Riverfront Park is integrated into the Trans Canada Trail system, making it easily accessible for cyclists from neighboring communities such as Dieppe and Riverview.

Moncton's public transit also provides convenient access, with most central bus routes passing in the immediate vicinity of the park. If you are taking a taxi from outlying areas or the train station, the ride to the main entrance is quick and comfortable.

The history of these lands dates back to the deep past when the riverbanks were inhabited by the Mi'kmaq people. They called the river Petitcodiac, which translates to "river that bends like a bow." Later, in 1733, Acadian settlers established the settlement of Le Coude here, also referring to the characteristic "elbow" bend of the waterway.

The modern era of development began in 1766 with the arrival of immigrants from Pennsylvania, who called the area "The Bend." In 1855, the settlement was officially incorporated and renamed in honor of British officer Robert Monckton. Thanks to the powerful tides, the city quickly became an important center for wooden shipbuilding.

In the mid-19th century, Joseph Salter's shipyards, located in this area, were among the largest in the region. Today, Riverfront Park carefully preserves the memory of those times, transforming the industrial coastline into a harmonious space where the city's history meets its natural heritage.

For a standard introduction to the park and a leisurely stroll along the bank, most visitors need 1.5 to 3 hours. This is plenty of time to see the monuments, take photos, and enjoy the views of the Petitcodiac River.

If you plan to walk or cycle the entire 5-kilometer Riverfront Trail, allow about 2 hours for your visit. You should also check the tide schedule: if you want to see the famous tidal bore, it's worth setting aside an extra 30–40 minutes to wait for this natural spectacle at the viewing area.

Riverfront Park is open to residents and visitors 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This flexible schedule allows you to choose the most convenient time for a visit: whether it's a quiet early morning run or an evening spent watching the city lights reflect in the river.

While the park is accessible around the clock, it is recommended to plan your visit during daylight hours or at sunset, when the light highlights the beauty of the landscape and the tidal bore observation is most spectacular.

Exploring the area surrounding Riverfront Park can significantly enrich your trip. Historical buildings, monuments, and modern entertainment centers are all within walking distance of the waterfront.