Looking for a way to explore Moncton beyond the usual tourist spots? This Unexpected Moncton Downtown Food and Drink Tour promises a relaxed, engaging way to see the city’s lesser-known side while sampling its best bites. It’s perfect for curious travelers who love a mix of culture, food, and scenic views—all wrapped into a manageable three-hour stroll.
Two things we really appreciate about this tour are its focus on local flavors—like Venezuelan snacks—and the chance to enjoy panoramic views from a rooftop bar at the end. It’s also great that the tour is small, capped at 10 participants, making for a more personal experience.
A potential consideration is that the itinerary moves at a comfortable pace, but if you’re particularly eager to pack in a lot of sights or want a faster-paced adventure, this might feel a tad relaxed.
Overall, it’s well-suited for visitors craving a deeper connection to Moncton’s neighborhoods, history, and food scene, without the need for extensive planning or big group crowds.
Key Points
- Balanced mix of history, culture, and food: You get a taste of Moncton’s past and present with stops at historic sites and vibrant neighborhoods.
- Unique local bites: Enjoy snacks from a Venezuelan producer and explore varied eateries, showcasing the city’s diverse food scene.
- Scenic views and relaxing vibe: The tour ends with drinks on a rooftop overlooking the Petitcodiac River, perfect for unwinding.
- Small groups for a personalized experience: With a maximum of 10 travelers, you’ll get a more intimate and engaging tour.
- Excellent value: For about $70, you get around three hours of guided exploration, food tastings, and scenic moments—worth considering if you want a meaningful taste of Moncton.
- Free cancellation option: Flexible planning makes it easier to book with confidence.
Making Sense of the Moncton Food and Drink Tour
If you’re the kind of traveler who loves discovering local neighborhoods and hidden eateries, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s particularly appealing if you want to blend history and culture with some delicious bites and stunning views. The fact that it’s a small-group experience means you’ll likely get more personalized attention and a chance to ask questions about the city’s past and present.
With a price tag of about $70 per person, it’s not the cheapest food tour out there, but given the included tastings, scenic stop, and the ending rooftop drinks, it offers good value. Plus, the tour runs for roughly three hours, making it a manageable half-day activity—especially perfect if your schedule includes other city explorations or you’re traveling with a mix of curious friends or partners.
Planning more time in New Brunswick? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
In-Depth Look at the Itinerary
Stop 1: Starving Artist Moncton
The tour kicks off on the banks of the Petitcodiac River, where you’ll get an introduction to the area’s history. The site itself has served as a hub of refuge and commerce for thousands of years, so it’s a lively start. Here, you’ll learn about how the Mi’kmaq explained the river’s muddy waters and how early settlers built a thriving community nearby. This spot isn’t just about history—it’s about setting the scene for what’s to come. For those interested in the roots of Moncton, this is a meaningful introduction.
What you’ll love: The peaceful riverside setting combined with snippets of local history.
Possible drawback: If you’re expecting a detailed museum visit, this is more of a scenic and storytelling start.
Stop 2: Main Street
Next, you’ll stroll through Main Street, which is filled with stories of the city’s diverse backgrounds—Acadian poets, Spanish muralists, shipbuilders, railroad bosses, and even bootleggers. This section feels like walking through a living history book, but with the added bonus of seeing the places where these stories unfolded.
What you’ll love: The vibrant atmosphere and the chance to hear about Moncton’s cultural tapestry. It’s a great way to appreciate how different influences shape the city today.
Possible drawback: If you’re not into history or prefer a quick walk, this might feel a bit slow-paced, but it’s a valuable context.
Stop 3: Marche Moncton Market
Here’s where the food gets really interesting. You’ll enjoy a snack and beverage from a local Venezuelan producer—an unexpected touch that highlights Moncton’s diverse food scene. This stop isn’t just about tasting; it’s about experiencing how global influences blend into local offerings.
What you’ll love: The chance to try something different and support local producers. It’s a flavorful break from traditional Canadian fare.
Possible drawback: If you’re not a fan of surprises or prefer more familiar bites, this could be a mixed bag.
Stop 4: Saint George Street
This lively street was featured in Globe and Mail’s Top 10 “Hidden Canada” spots for 2025, and you can see why. It’s a melting pot of bars, cafes, and eateries, with a diverse vibe that makes it one of the most energetic parts of the city. The tour includes visits to three spots along this street, giving you a glimpse of Moncton’s local hangouts.
What you’ll love: The variety of spots, the lively atmosphere, and the chance to see how locals unwind.
Possible drawback: If you prefer quiet, this street can be quite bustling, though that’s part of its charm.
Stop 5: Canvas Moncton Rooftop Bar
The tour concludes with a well-deserved moment on the rooftop bar overlooking the Petitcodiac River. Here, you’ll sip cocktails and munch on appetizers, enjoying the fading daylight and panoramic views. It’s a relaxed, scenic way to reflect on the day.
What you’ll love: The picturesque setting and the chance to unwind with a drink after exploring.
Possible drawback: Some may find the end time a bit late if they’re on a tight schedule, but it’s a nice finale.
Authentic Voices and Real Experiences
One reviewer from Montreal shared, “We were visiting from Montreal and this was the perfect addition to our visit. The tour’s delightful mix of history, anecdotes, and delicious food and drinks made the afternoon fly by.” This highlights how the tour balances storytelling with tasting, making it suitable for those who enjoy both education and indulgence.
Another reviewer mentioned how they appreciated seeing the city in a “richer, more detailed way,” suggesting that this tour offers insights you might miss exploring on your own. It’s a good way to get a flavor of Moncton’s neighborhoods and local life without the hassle of planning multiple stops.
Practical Details: What to Expect
The tour starts at 2:00 pm from the Starving Artist Gallery and Gifts, a central location that’s easy to reach. It lasts approximately three hours, with several stops that include free admission, tastings, and a scenic finale. The maximum group size of 10 ensures a more intimate experience, and the mobile ticket makes check-in straightforward.
The cost at around $70.35 per person includes tastings at the market and rooftop, making it a reasonable deal for a guided, curated experience. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with confirmation given at booking and service animals allowed.
If you need to cancel, you can do so free of charge up to 24 hours in advance, adding some peace of mind to your plans.
The Sum Up
This Unexpected Moncton Downtown Food and Drink Tour offers a relaxed, friendly way to see the city’s hidden corners while tasting local and international flavors. It’s a solid choice if you want an authentic, small-group experience that balances history, culture, and cuisine. The scenic views from the rooftop bar and the diverse neighborhoods make it a memorable part of any trip to Moncton.
It’s especially well-suited for travelers who want to connect with the local vibe without rushing, and those interested in trying unusual bites like Venezuelan snacks. The tour’s affordability and the personal touch of a small group make it a practical pick for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of Moncton’s unique character.
For anyone who enjoys a leisurely walk with good stories and tasty surprises, this tour ticks many boxes. Just remember to bring your curiosity—and perhaps your camera for all those picturesque views.
Unexpected Moncton Downtown Food and Drink Tour
“We were visiting from Montreal and this was the perfect addition to our visit. The tour's delightful mix of history, anecdotes, and delicious food…”
FAQ
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately three hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.
Where does the tour start?
It begins at the Starving Artist Gallery and Gifts, located at 80 Assomption Blvd in Moncton.
What’s included in the price?
The cost covers tastings from a local Venezuelan food producer, visits to several neighborhoods, and access to the rooftop bar for drinks and appetizers at the end.
Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. It’s a relaxed pace, making it accessible for a wide range of guests.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the start, making planning flexible.
How many people are in a group?
The maximum size is 10 travelers, ensuring a more personal and engaging experience.
Do I need to prepare anything?
Just come ready to walk and taste. Comfortable shoes and a curious attitude will enhance your experience.
Is there a dress code?
There’s no strict dress code, but casual, comfortable attire suited for walking is recommended.
This tour offers a genuine taste of Moncton’s vibrant neighborhoods, local flavors, and scenic views—perfect for those who prefer meaningful experiences over typical sightseeing. If that sounds like your style, this could be a highlight of your trip.