Canada is full of hidden gems — literally. From museums holding natural treasures to historic mining towns, here are four golden destinations worth a summer trip.
Cobalt, Ontario
When silver was discovered here in 1903, Cobalt boomed into one of the world’s highest-producing silver areas — roughly 460 million ounces (over 13 million kilograms), worth about $13.6 billion today. The mining technology born here spread across the industry, and the town is now one of Canada’s National Historic Sites. Explore the world’s largest indoor silver display, or walk the Heritage Silver Trail in summer.
The Royal Canadian Mint, Winnipeg
Operating since 1908, the Mint is one of the world’s most recognized coin manufacturers. Tour the floor, watch coins being made, see over $1 million in real gold — and hold a solid gold bar. It’s also home to a Guinness record: the world’s largest coin, 100 kg of solid gold with a $1 million face value. Virtual tours are available too.
The golden rule of summer road trips
Wherever the trip leads, Canada’s mining history is closer than most people think — and it shaped towns, museums and trails from Ontario’s north to the prairies.
Traveller’s bonus: holding the Mint’s gold bar is free with admission — the closest most of us get to 12+ kilograms of pure gold in one hand.
Inspired to look at your own treasures? We evaluate gold and silver at live market prices, seven days a week.
