Kick off your cross-country adventure by departing Peterborough early to beat the traffic, heading east along the scenic Highway 401. Your first stretch of the drive takes you past the shimmering waters of the Thousand Islands, where you can pause for a quick stretch and breakfast in the charming town of Gananoque.
After crossing into Quebec, stop for an authentic poutine lunch at a classic casse-croûte in the town of Drummondville. Spend the late afternoon cruising along the Saint Lawrence River on Autoroute 20, keeping an eye out for the historic windmills and traditional farmsteads that dot the Bas-Saint-Laurent region.
Upon arriving in Rivière-du-Loup, head to the shores of [Parc de la Pointe](https://www.villerdl.ca/en/tourism/explore-the-city/parc-de-la-pointe) to witness one of the world's most spectacular sunsets over the wide St. Lawrence Estuary. Cap off your first day with a cozy family meal at Aux Fous de la Boussole, enjoying local Quebecois flavors before settling in for a restful night at a nearby lodge.
Leave Rivière-du-Loup early to cross the provincial border into New Brunswick, making your first significant stop at the breathtaking Grand Falls Gorge. Take a brisk walk along the Malabeam Centre boardwalk to witness the raw power of the Saint John River cascading over the cliffs, a sight sure to impress a young adventurer.
Continue your journey through the heart of New Brunswick to experience the gravity-defying magic of [Magnetic Hill](https://www.magnetichill.com/) in Moncton, a guaranteed highlight for a curious ten-year-old. Afterward, cross the border into Nova Scotia and stretch your legs at the Nova Scotia Welcome Centre in Amherst, where you can pick up local treats for the final leg toward Cape Breton.
After crossing the Canso Causeway onto Cape Breton Island, wrap up your long drive with a celebratory dinner at The Lobster Pound and Moore in North Sydney. Take a short walk through Ballast Grounds Park to view the massive Marine Atlantic ferry docked in the harbor, building anticipation for your morning journey across the Cabot Strait.
Arrive at the North Sydney Ferry Terminal early for check-in with Marine Atlantic, watching the massive doors of the MV Blue Puttees open to welcome your vehicle for the voyage. Once on deck, enjoy the fresh salt air of the Cabot Strait and a family breakfast in the Galley Restaurant as you watch the shores of Cape Breton Island fade into the horizon.
As the ferry docks in Port aux Basques, drive off into the rugged landscape and head straight to the [Railway Heritage Centre](https://www.google.com/search?q=Railway+Heritage+Centre+From+peterborough+ontario+to+newfoundland+%0ADriving+there+and+back+%0A2+adults+1+10+year+old+boy%0AJuly+3+to+July+13%0AWith+estimated+cost+for+the+whole+trip+%0A+official+site) to explore vintage train cars that once traversed the island. Later, stretch your legs with a walk along the Harvey Trail, where the family can enjoy stunning coastal views and perhaps spot your first Newfoundland puffins near the shoreline.
Check into the Hotel Port aux Basques for a relaxing evening and sit down for a hearty, locally sourced dinner at the Seiners' Lounge. After your meal, take a short drive to visit the Cape Ray Lighthouse, where the family can explore the grassy dunes and watch the light sweep across the dark Atlantic waters as your first day on the island comes to a close.
Start your morning with a scenic drive north from Port aux Basques along the Viking Trail, taking in the dramatic mountain vistas as you enter Gros Morne National Park. Your first major stop is the surreal, orange-hued landscape of The Tablelands, where a walk through this UNESCO World Heritage site allows the family to experience the rare opportunity of standing directly on the Earth's mantle.
Head into the historic town of Woody Point to explore the [Gros Morne Discovery Centre](https://parks.canada.ca/pn-np/nl/grosmorne/activ/decouverte-discovery), where interactive exhibits about plate tectonics will fascinate the whole family. Later, challenge yourselves to the hike up the Lookout Trail, which provides a spectacular vantage point over the steep cliffs and shimmering waters of Bonne Bay.
Wrap up your evening by boarding the Bonne Bay Ferry for a scenic sunset water taxi ride over to Norris Point, enjoying the cool breeze and rugged cliff views from the water. Afterward, head into Rocky Harbour to enjoy a lively performance of traditional music and stories at The Cat Stop, providing a perfect cultural introduction to the island's west coast.
Rise early in Rocky Harbour to make the short drive to the trailhead of the iconic Western Brook Pond, where a 3-kilometer hike across the boardwalks offers the family a chance to spot moose or rare birds grazing in the coastal marshlands. Upon reaching the dock, you will board the [Western Brook Pond Boat Tour](https://www.google.com/search?q=Western+Brook+Pond+Boat+Tour+From+peterborough+ontario+to+newfoundland+%0ADriving+there+and+back+%0A2+adults+1+10+year+old+boy%0AJuly+3+to+July+13%0AWith+estimated+cost+for+the+whole+trip+%0A+official+site) to cruise through majestic billion-year-old fjords, marveling at the massive waterfalls that plunge from the plateau above into the deep waters below.
After departing the pond, travel down the coast to visit the historic [Broom Point Fishing Premises](https://www.google.com/search?q=Broom+Point+Fishing+Premises+From+peterborough+ontario+to+newfoundland+%0ADriving+there+and+back+%0A2+adults+1+10+year+old+boy%0AJuly+3+to+July+13%0AWith+estimated+cost+for+the+whole+trip+%0A+official+site), where the family can explore restored fishing cabins and learn about the region's traditional salt-fish industry. Continue to the scenic Lobster Cove Head Lighthouse to comb through the tide pools for marine life and hike the short, windswept trails that offer breathtaking views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence.
Spend your evening at Java Jack's Restaurant, where the family can enjoy a delicious meal featuring locally sourced ingredients and fresh-caught seafood. Afterward, take a peaceful stroll along the Norris Point Waterfront to watch the sun set behind the silhouette of the Long Range Mountains, capping off an unforgettable day in the park.
Bid farewell to the fjords as you head to the [Newfoundland Insectarium](https://nlinsectarium.com/) in Deer Lake, where the family can walk through a tropical butterfly house and see thousands of incredible specimen exhibits. Afterward, start your journey into the island's interior along the Trans-Canada Highway, keeping an eye out for moose as you follow the scenic banks of the Exploits River toward Central Newfoundland.
Make a stop at the [Salmonid Interpretation Centre](https://www.google.com/search?q=Salmonid+Interpretation+Centre+From+peterborough+ontario+to+newfoundland+%0ADriving+there+and+back+%0A2+adults+1+10+year+old+boy%0AJuly+3+to+July+13%0AWith+estimated+cost+for+the+whole+trip+%0A+official+site) in Grand Falls-Windsor to watch Atlantic salmon leap through the underwater windows of a fish ladder. Later, arrive in Gander to explore the [North Atlantic Aviation Museum](https://northatlanticaviationmuseum.com/), where the family can climb inside a real CF-101 Voodoo jet and learn about the town's heroic aviation history.
Spend your evening reflecting on the town's famous hospitality with a hearty family dinner at the Mystic Dining Room, located inside the historic Hotel Gander. Afterward, take a leisurely twilight stroll along the wooden boardwalks of Cobb's Pond Rotary Park, letting the crisp Newfoundland air refresh you as you watch the local wildlife near the water's edge.
Begin your final eastward stretch by driving toward the coast, stopping at Terra Nova National Park to walk the family-friendly Coastal Trail, where the boreal forest meets the Atlantic. After a quick break in Clarenville, continue the trek toward the historic city of St. John's, catching your first glimpse of the iconic, colorful row houses known as Jellybean Row as you enter the downtown core.
Head up to the peak of [Signal Hill National Historic Site](https://parks.canada.ca/lhn-nhs/nl/signalhill) to stand beside Cabot Tower and witness breathtaking panoramic views of the narrow harbor entrance known as The Narrows. Afterward, descend into the charming, hidden fishing village of Quidi Vidi, where the family can browse the Quidi Vidi Village Artisan Studios and walk the scenic shores of Quidi Vidi Lake.
Conclude your first night in the capital with a classic family dinner on historic Water Street, enjoying legendary local seafood at [Ches's Famous Fish and Chips](https://chessfishandchips.ca/). Afterward, take a scenic stroll along the St. John's Harbourfront to watch the massive international vessels and colorful fishing boats docked at the Port of St. John's as the city lights begin to sparkle against the dark Atlantic water.
Start your day at the Cape Spear Lighthouse National Historic Site, standing on the most easterly point of North America as the Atlantic waves crash against the rugged cliffs. Afterward, drive south to Bay Bulls for a morning cruise with Gatherall's Atlantic Adventures, where the family will be amazed by the swirling clouds of thousands of puffins and the sight of humpback whales in the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve.
Return to the city for an afternoon of discovery at [The Rooms](https://www.google.com/search?q=The+Rooms+From+peterborough+ontario+to+newfoundland+%0ADriving+there+and+back+%0A2+adults+1+10+year+old+boy%0AJuly+3+to+July+13%0AWith+estimated+cost+for+the+whole+trip+%0A+official+site), a massive cultural hub where the family can explore Newfoundland's history and admire the vast collection of heritage artifacts. Later, dive deep into the earth's secrets at the [Johnson Geo Centre](https://www.google.com/search?q=Johnson+Geo+Centre+From+peterborough+ontario+to+newfoundland+%0ADriving+there+and+back+%0A2+adults+1+10+year+old+boy%0AJuly+3+to+July+13%0AWith+estimated+cost+for+the+whole+trip+%0A+official+site), an underground museum built into the ancient rock of Signal Hill, featuring interactive exhibits on volcanoes and space that are sure to captivate a ten-year-old.
Enjoy a relaxed family dinner on Duckworth Street at [Piatto Pizzeria + Enoteca](https://piattopizzeria.com/), where the wood-fired pizzas are sure to satisfy everyone after a busy day of coastal exploration. Afterward, take a short walk to the historic Bannerman Park to enjoy the wide-open green spaces and grab a local sweet treat from The Parlour gelato shop. End your night with a quiet visit to see the twin stone towers of the Basilica of St. John the Baptist beautifully illuminated against the night sky.
Begin your return trek across the island by squeezing in one last stop in St. John's at Bowring Park to see the famous Peter Pan Statue and the iconic Fighting Newfoundlander monument. Soon after, hit the Trans-Canada Highway heading west and make a quick stop at the Whitbourne Heritage Museum to explore its collection of local artifacts housed in a historic railway station.
Navigate through the scenic Humber Valley and stop in Corner Brook to climb the hill to the Captain James Cook National Historic Site, where the family can enjoy a bird's-eye view of the winding Bay of Islands. Afterward, take a short break to spot the rocky profile at the Man in the Mountain lookout before continuing your westward drive toward the coast along the Trans-Canada Highway.
Arrive back in the coastal hub to enjoy a final Newfoundland meal at [The Sea-Echo Motel & Restaurant](https://www.google.com/search?q=The+Sea-Echo+Motel+%26+Restaurant+From+peterborough+ontario+to+newfoundland+%0ADriving+there+and+back+%0A2+adults+1+10+year+old+boy%0AJuly+3+to+July+13%0AWith+estimated+cost+for+the+whole+trip+%0A+official+site), sharing memories over fresh seafood. Head over to the Marine Atlantic Ferry Terminal for your scheduled check-in, making sure to browse the Terminal Gift Shop for unique local treasures. Finally, board the MV Highlanders and find a comfortable spot on deck to watch the Port aux Basques shoreline vanish as your night crossing across the Cabot Strait begins.
Wake up aboard the MV Highlanders as it docks at the North Sydney Ferry Terminal, marking your return to the mainland after your Newfoundland adventure. After disembarking, cross the Canso Causeway and make a pit stop at the Masstown Market, where the family can stock up on local snacks and visit the Masstown Lighthouse for a quick climb to see the views of the Cobequid Bay.
Continue driving through the picturesque Saint John River Valley, making a memorable detour to Nackawic to snap a family photo with The World's Largest Axe. Later, experience a piece of Canadian history by walking across the Hartland Covered Bridge, the longest bridge of its kind in the world, which provides a perfect leg-stretch before the final push toward the border.
Upon arriving in Edmundston, wind down with a stroll through the lush themed landscapes of the New Brunswick Botanical Garden, specifically checking out the artistic sculptures in the Celestial Park. For a true taste of the region, enjoy a family dinner featuring traditional buckwheat Ployes at a local restaurant before getting a good night's rest for the final leg of your journey.
Depart Edmundston early and travel through the scenic highlands of the Témiscouata region, stopping for a fresh breakfast at a local boulangerie in Saint-Pascal. Continue the drive along the south shore of the St. Lawrence River, pausing to admire the massive steel structure of the Quebec Bridge as you cross the water and begin the final stretch toward the Ontario border.
After crossing the border into Ontario, stop for a late lunch in Kingston and take a quick stroll through Confederation Park to see the historic Engine 6218. Continue west along Highway 401 for a final celebratory stop at The Big Apple in Colborne to pick up treats and let the kid burn off energy at the mini-golf course. As you transition onto Highway 115, enjoy the familiar rolling hills of the Kawarthas as you approach the end of your epic journey in Peterborough.
Wrap up your incredible trip with a sunset walk along the shores of Little Lake, where the family can admire the glowing Centennial Fountain against the dusk sky. Share your favorite memories and scroll through photos at Del Crary Park before heading home to settle in after your epic maritime adventure.