The popular horror-comedy series, “Widow’s Bay,” has been a standout streaming hit this year. Created by Katie Dippold, a writer from “Parks and Recreation,” this Apple TV original is set in a small New England island town with a dark past resurfacing from its mysterious waters. It offers a blend of charm and genuine fright, akin to a mix of Stephen King and Leslie Knope.
Despite receiving 19 Emmy nominations and securing a second season, fans will have to wait for new episodes. However, Canadians can explore real places with a similar eerie allure, historic significance, and storybook charm that mirrors “Widow’s Bay.”
Here are six Canadian destinations worth visiting for a mix of discovery and adventure.
**Saint Andrews, N.B.:**
Saint Andrews, also known as St. Andrews by-the-Sea, is renowned for its Georgian architecture and historic waterfront. The Algonquin Resort, a Tudor Revival-style escape, is at the town’s heart and is rumored to have a haunted room, adding to its allure for fans of “Widow’s Bay.”
**Port Hope, Ont.:**
Port Hope boasts a preserved downtown core with numerous heritage buildings and the picturesque Ganaraska River flowing through it. The town exudes a historic charm while maintaining a vibrant atmosphere, reminiscent of the setting in “Widow’s Bay.” It also served as a filming location for the iconic horror film “It,” adding to its appeal.
**Mahone Bay, N.S.:**
Mahone Bay offers a picturesque escape with its waterfront churches and colorful historic buildings. The town’s maritime history and ghostly tales make it a compelling destination for those intrigued by the themes in “Widow’s Bay.”
**Snug Cove, B.C.:**
Snug Cove, located on Bowen Island, provides a serene retreat with misty inlets and scenic trails reminiscent of a David Lynch-esque atmosphere. The destination’s local gems, including the Snug Cafe and Kitoki Inn, offer a charming experience akin to the allure of “Widow’s Bay.”
**Kamouraska, Que.:**
Kamouraska, a small village on the St. Lawrence River, beckons travelers with its waterfront beauty and historical architecture. The village’s intriguing history, including a notorious murder that inspired literary works, adds a touch of mystery similar to that found in “Widow’s Bay.”
**Bell Island, N.L.:**
For adventurous travelers, Bell Island presents a rugged landscape with coastal trails and sea caves. Legends of ghostly miners and the infamous Ghost of Dobbin’s Garden add an eerie element to the island, resonating with the supernatural themes in “Widow’s Bay.”