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Gander

Gander, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada

Located in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, Gander is a charming town that offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and warm hospitality. Gander is perhaps best known f…

#Small town#Aviation history#Community spirit#Newfoundland and Labrador#Canadian Heritage

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Gander.

Top Hotels in Gander

Top Flights to Gander

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Gander.

Tours

Visit Cobb's Pond Rotary Park

A tranquil park offering walking trails around Cobb's Pond, ideal for nature lovers.

Silent Witness Memorial

A memorial site dedicated to the victims of the 1985 Arrow Air crash.

Gander Heritage Memorial Park

A park recognizing Gander's aviation history and community spirit.

Gander's Aviation Museum

Exhibits celebrating Gander's pivotal role in transatlantic aviation.

Shopping

Gander Shopping Centre

A hub for shopping with various stores ranging from fashion to necessities.

Fraser Mall

Gander's indoor shopping mall offering a variety of retail options.

Gander Farmers' Market

A local market offering fresh produce and artisanal products.

Outdoor

Thomas Howe Demonstration Forest

Short hiking trail showcasing the natural flora of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Little Harbour Marina

Charming marina area offering sights of beautiful boats and serene waters.

Terra Nova National Park (Nearby)

A nearby national park offering extensive trails and camping options for outdoor enthusiasts.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Gander.

Currency

$ | CAD | Canadian Dollar

Population

12.3 thousand

Languages

English, English, French

Average weather

Gander

Jan

-3°-11°

Feb

-3°-11°

Mar

0°-8°

Apr

5°-3°

May

11°2°

Jun

17°7°

Jul

21°11°

Aug

21°11°

Sep

16°7°

Oct

10°2°

Nov

4°-2°

Dec

-1°-8°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Gander.

What people love

Gander, located in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, offers several pros for travelers:

Scenic Beauty: Gander is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including rugged coastlines, lush forests, and picturesque lakes. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy activities such as hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing.
Friendly Locals: Newfoundlanders are known for their warmth and hospitality, and visitors to Gander can expect a warm welcome from the locals. This makes for a pleasant and memorable travel experience.
Rich History: Gander has a rich history, particularly as a key location during World War II and as a hub for transatlantic flights. History buffs will appreciate the various museums and historic sites in the area.
Cultural Experiences: The town of Gander has a vibrant arts and culture scene, with opportunities to experience traditional Newfoundland music, dance, and cuisine. Visitors can also explore local art galleries and craft shops.
Gateway to Adventure: Gander serves as a gateway to the rugged and remote landscapes of Newfoundland and Labrador. From Gander, travelers can easily access other scenic destinations such as Gros Morne National Park, Fogo Island, and Twillingate.

Overall, traveling to Gander offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and friendly locals, making it a rewarding destination for those looking to explore the eastern region of Canada.

What to know

Gander, located in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, is a lovely destination known for its natural beauty and friendly people. However, like any travel destination, there are some potential cons to consider:

Weather: Gander experiences a maritime climate, which means it can have unpredictable weather patterns. Winters are cold and snowy, and summers can be cool and rainy. This could impact outdoor activities and sightseeing plans.
Remote Location: Gander is a relatively remote location in Newfoundland and Labrador, which could mean limited transportation options and longer travel times to reach other destinations or amenities.
Limited Accommodation and Dining Options: While Gander does have a range of accommodation and dining options, they may be limited compared to larger cities. This could result in fewer choices and potentially higher prices.
Seasonal Variability: Some attractions or activities in Gander may be seasonal, so if you visit during the off-season, you may miss out on certain experiences.
Limited Public Transportation: Gander may not have an extensive public transportation system, so getting around the area may require a rental car or relying on taxis, which could be more costly.

Overall, while Gander has much to offer in terms of natural beauty and charm, visitors should be aware of these potential cons to help plan a more enjoyable and stress-free trip.

Gander is a town located in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, known for its rich history, particularly in aviation. Here's a detailed history of Gander:

Early History and Establishment

1935: The location for what would become Gander was chosen to serve as a strategic air base. The site was selected for its proximity to the Great Circle Route between North America and Europe.
1936: Construction of the airfield began by the federal government. It was initially known as the Newfoundland Airport.

World War II Era

1939-1945: During World War II, Gander became a crucial airbase for transatlantic flights. It was used by the Royal Air Force (RAF), the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF), and the United States Army Air Forces. Thousands of Allied aircraft refueled and were serviced at Gander before continuing on to Europe.
1940: The airport was officially named RCAF Station Gander.
The town of Gander began to grow around the airbase, servicing military personnel and operations.

Post-War Development

1949: Newfoundland joined Canada, and Gander became part of the new province of Newfoundland, which later became Newfoundland and Labrador.
1950s-1960s: Gander Airport (now Gander International Airport) was one of the busiest airports in the world due to its role as a refueling stop for transatlantic flights. The town continued to develop, with housing and infrastructure expanding to support the growing population.

Significant Events

1985: Arrow Air Flight 1285 crashed shortly after takeoff from Gander International Airport, killing all 256 people on board. It was one of the deadliest aviation accidents in Canadian history.
September 11, 2001: Following the terrorist attacks in the United States, Gander played a significant role in Operation Yellow Ribbon, where 38 planes were diverted to Gander International Airport. The town hosted about 6,700 passengers and crew from these flights, nearly doubling its population overnight. The town's hospitality and generosity during this time were widely praised and became the basis for the musical "Come From Away."

Significant Figures

Cyrus Eaton: An industrialist who played a significant role in the development of Gander during its early years.
Joseph R. Smallwood: While not specifically a figure in Gander's history, as the first Premier of Newfoundland, Smallwood's actions during Newfoundland's confederation with Canada had indirect impacts on Gander's development.

Important Landmarks

Gander International Airport: Known for its significant role during WWII and as a transatlantic refueling stop. The airport has a vintage terminal building from the 1950s that is a testament to its historical significance.
Silent Witness Memorial: A site dedicated to the victims of the Arrow Air Flight 1285 crash.
North Atlantic Aviation Museum: This museum showcases Gander's aviation history and its role in WWII and during the era of transatlantic flight.

Gander's history is closely tied to its strategic location and its role in aviation, which shaped its development and cultural legacy.