Let Sussex Surprise You!
Sussex, New Brunswick
Recently my sisters suggested we meet up in the small town of Sussex, New Brunswick to check out the massive mural project, wander around the heritage buildings and the cute shops, then have lunch at one of the sweet downtown cafés. After that, they suggested, we could explore the beautiful farmland & bluffs, and the rolling hills countryside & covered bridges. They said I would be surprised at everything Sussex has to offer.
Heart of the Province
Centrally located in New Brunswick makes this rural community an easy day trip from Fredericton, Saint John, or Moncton. It was the perfect spot to meet to spend a relaxed day together and my sisters were absolutely right; Sussex surprised me with its artwork murals, quaint downtown, and its rural beauty. I loved every minute and this city girl also appreciated that the parking is free here.
Shopping in Sussex
Come Bye Chance Antiques had me craning my neck then doubling back on Highway 10, to check it out before I even made it into town. I enjoyed chatting with owner, Louise Flaglor, and I left with a lovely old handwoven basket, a little blue polkadot creamer jug, and a bag of vintage bottles. Her adorable flower-laden turquoise scooter caught my eye, too, and I promised I would be back again soon with antiquing friends. You can find some of Louise’s antiques at The General Store Emporium in the middle of downtown Sussex, too. It is a lovely community co-op representing than 80 talented local artists & artisans, creators, makers & crafters, and a selection of books by local authors, along with antiques & collectibles, and gently used books. You can even find Maritimes Maven photography cards by yours truly there. Another must stop for me in Sussex is at Dairytown Market. The vintage & antique offerings here have really grown over the past few years, especially since Joëlle Martin of Mon Pré Collection joined the curated collective of vendors there. Find visual artist Joëlle over at the AX, the Arts and Culture Centre of Sussex as the new Docent & Boutique Manager. She is dedicated to enhancing the visitor experience, while also assuming the role of ambassador for the arts & culture within Sussex’s region. Joëlle enhances the visitor experience, while also assuming the role of ambassador for the arts & culture within the region. Pop into the AX to explore this amazing centre. KatzNest Giftware and Decor is a darling curated gift shop for affordable, stylish home decor, memorable gifts and tasty treats!
Mural Capital of Atlantic Canada
Be awed by the Mural Capital of Atlantic Canada. Walk the town's history told through dozens of massive murals painted on buildings throughout Sussex and nearby Sussex Corner. Official walking guides with all the fascinating historical significance of each painting are available at the Visitor Information Centre located in the Railway Station. It will aid you in locating all the murals (there is a map included), and it makes appreciating the artworks origins deeply meaningful. History buffs will enjoy the 8th Hussars Military Museum in town and art & culture fans will also appreciate the AX, the Arts and Culture Centre of Sussex.
Sussex Restaurants & Cafés
There are many options for great places to eat in downtown Sussex, but Knock’s Café, found in the AX building, is one of my favourites. The food is fantastic, and the funky, artsy decor, friendly staff, and relaxed atmosphere will have you lingering over a glass of wine. Fresh ingredients, clever and very tasty combinations of soup, salads, and sandwiches has me coming back here time and time again. The paninis are not to be missed. Gluten-free options are also available. Desserts & coffees are equally as yummy and there is a sweet patio to enjoy in warmer months. Taste & See Restaurant and Stable Grounds Café is another spot I frequent in downtown Sussex. You can expect large portion sizes, gourmet burgers, interesting wraps, great salad options, and delicious desserts. The staff are warm & inviting, but it can be busy here so you may endure a wait unless you have made a reservation, which I highly recommend. You cannot beat All Seasons Inn & Restaurant for down-home cooking, excellent seafood, and delicious pies. I am hearing good things about The Falafel Spot, a fresh, savoury, Lebanese Restaurant that is creating some buzz, but I have yet to try it myself. If you have a sweet tooth, put The Cobbler’s Lane Fudge Factory on your list. Enjoy over 30 creamy fudge flavours to choose from, as well as many of their other café sweets & treats including sandwiches, soups, baked goods, hot & cold drinks, and Sussex Ice Cream year-round. Enjoy a waffle sandwich and a barista-created latté with a piece of delectable fudge, then browse the giftshop.
River Valley Scenic Drive
A countryside that begs you to go slow and take in the picturesque patchwork quilt of farmland spotted with grazing dairy cows & horses awaits you just outside of town. Go on a bluff hike and venture out in any direction and discover a countryside filled with rolling hills, farming communities, wooden covered bridges, train tracks, and secret fishing spots. Sussex sits in the juncture of River Valley Scenic Drive and the Fundy Coastal Drive. It is well known as the Gateway to the Bay of Fundy and The Fundy Trail. Besides being known as the Mural Capital of Atlantic Canada, Sussex also holds the title of the Dairy Centre of the Maritimes, and the Covered Bridge Capital of Atlantic Canada. There is so much to see & do here. What are you waiting for? Let Sussex surprise you!
Atlantic Balloon Fiesta
The Atlantic Balloon Fiesta, also known as Atlantic Canada’s Most Colourful Festival, is an annual event that is proudly held in Sussex, New Brunswick. It has grown over the past few decades into a huge 3-day weekend event jam-packed with wonderful activities, music, food & fun for everyone. The highlight is watching 30+ beautiful hot air balloons in many different colours, shapes & sizes inflate, launch, and float across the serene September blue sky. You can also fly in one, too! Learn more about this unique festival in the article below.
Atlantic Balloon Fiesta
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