Corner Brook, Newfoundland, Canada

Corner Brook, a small but bustling city, is on Newfoundland’s west coast. Captain Cook initially mapped this area, known as the Bay of Islands, in 1767, and like many other Newfoundland settlements, Corner Brook started out as a fishing village. Later, one of the largest pulp and paper mills in the world was built here.

In the city’s downtown core, West Street and Broadway are the center of action, thanks to numerous pubs, shops and restaurants. The local university has renowned fine-arts and drama programs, so you’re never too far from entertainment. Corner Brook also has an impressive amount of green space—you’re always within walking distance of a park or trail. Nearby Humber Valley and the Marble Mountain offer some of the best skiing in Atlantic Canada, a big enticement for outdoor-adventure junkies. Even if you’d prefer to just take in the scenery, the rolling green mountains and the views overlooking the bay are worth the trip.