About the Island / Locals Know Blog / Outdoor & Adventure

6 Things to do in Downtown Sydney

The unofficial capital of Cape Breton, Sydney is filled with plenty of fun and adventurous activities for everyone. With the world’s largest fiddle as a crown jewel, you’ll be surprised by what you find here. Why not check out these experiences and decide for yourself?

No trip to Cape Breton Island is complete without visiting the world's largest fiddle! The fiddle is found at the Joan Harriss Cruise Pavillion and is home to a number of shops, food trucks and treats. Be sure to check out Flavor on the Water, a restaurant with an amazing view of the Sydney waterfront and fiddle.

The stunning Gallery Shop contains the work of over 90 Cape Breton artisans. Hundreds of unusual and one-of-a-kind items are on display and available for purchase. The Centre also hosts exhibitions and a variety of craft workshops throughout the year.

The pulse of Downtown Sydney can be heard through the numerous venues and events with live music. With so many indoor and outdoor venues featuring live music throughout the whole year, you'll never be bored on a Friday night!

Immerse yourself in Sydney's vibrant downtown core, where every street corner becomes a canvas of creativity through captivating public art displays. This self guided tour will take you on a journey to discover the heart and soul of the city as you stroll through these open-air galleries.

A giant mural feature a green octopus

5. Shop Local

With so many boutiques, shops and storefronts you can do all of your shopping directly in Downtown Sydney. Are you looking for the perfect item for the hard to buy for person in your life, odds are you'll find what you're looking for here!

Whether you're looking for fine dining, delicious international foods, or just a good ol' fashioned pub, Sydney has you covered. Dine at one of the many establishments in Downtown Sydney where there's enough variety to satisfy even the most discerning of palates.

Pro tip: If there's lobster on the menu, always order the lobster!

Sydney Restaurants:

About the Author

Team Destination Cape Breton

Our team at Destination Cape Breton is always exploring our beautiful Island. We love discovering our hidden gems, working with partners, and putting our Island on the pedestal it deserves!

Related posts...

5 Easy Cape Breton Snowshoe Hikes

Come late November, when parts of Canada begin to be blanketed with snow, Cape Breton wonders if Mother Nature has forgotten her. Not a chance. Winter on Cape Breton Island is inevitable.

3 Minute Read

Cape Breton Fall Guide for Culinary Enthusiasts

Looking for somewhere to eat on Cape Breton Island? Looking for an authentic experience or simply want to try some locally inspired dishes? Here is a culinary guide for your trip to Cape Breton that will...

6 Minute Read

Margarees

Whether you come for the fishing or relaxing on the River, a day at the beach, or a square dance in Southwest Margaree, you’ll leave refreshed and exhilarated, and ready to plan your return.

7 Minute Read

Unlock the Island’s Best-Kept Secrets

Get seasonal itineraries, local tips, and member-only offers, straight from Cape Breton insiders to your inbox twice a month.

No spam, just wanderlust fuel. Free departure anytime.

* By subscribing, you agree to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy