Dollar Car Hire
Moncton

On arrival at Greater Moncton Roméo LeBlanc International Airport, the car hire desks are conveniently located inside the main terminal building. After you disembark and enter the arrivals hall, look for the overhead signs for 'Car Rentals' or 'Ground Transportation.' The Dollar desk is in this area alongside other hire companies and is easy to spot. Once you've completed the rental process with an agent, they will give you clear directions to the vehicle collection lot, which is just a short walk from the terminal exit.

Greater Moncton Roméo LeBlanc International Airport is designed for easy navigation, whatever gate you arrive at. All arriving passengers, including those from small regional flights, are directed into the same central arrivals and baggage claim area. The path is very straightforward; simply follow the flow of other passengers towards the main hall. The car hire desks are prominently displayed in this hall, so you will see them almost immediately. From there, it's a quick process at the desk before a short walk to the adjacent lot to collect your vehicle.

As you drive towards the airport terminal, follow the road signs for 'Rental Car Return.' The entrance is a dedicated lane that branches off from the main airport roadway before you reach the passenger drop-off and departure zones. While the signage is clear, it's sensible to reduce your speed and remain in the correct lane as you approach the terminal complex. Missing the turn is uncommon, but paying close attention will ensure you avoid accidentally looping around the airport.

For a morning flight, it is good practice to allow an additional 20 to 30 minutes for the hire car return process. This provides a comfortable buffer to find the return lane, unload your luggage, and have the vehicle inspected by staff. It also accounts for any potential queues at the return desk if you need to finalise paperwork. After dropping off the car, you still need to walk back to the main terminal to check in and go through security. Planning this extra time helps ensure a stress-free start to your travel day.

The most direct and simple route to downtown Moncton begins by taking Aviation Avenue from the airport terminal. You will then merge onto the Trans-Canada Highway (Route 2) and quickly take the exit for Route 15 West towards Moncton. This highway leads you directly into the city, where you can follow the signs for Downtown/Centre-Ville. This path keeps you on major roads for most of the journey, minimising complex city-street navigation until you are near your destination.

The drive from the airport to the Magnetic Hill area is very straightforward and primarily uses the main highway. From YQM, you join the Trans-Canada Highway (Route 2) heading west. You will stay on this multi-lane, well-maintained highway for most of the short journey. The exit for Magnetic Hill is clearly signed, as it is one of the region's top attractions. The final approach involves a short drive on a local road that leads directly to the hotels and attractions in the area.

Under normal conditions, the drive from the airport to the Avenir Centre takes about 15 to 20 minutes. However, when there is a weeknight event such as a concert or hockey game, you should plan for at least 30 to 40 minutes. Traffic can become quite congested on the main routes leading downtown, particularly on Main Street and the surrounding blocks. Arriving early is highly recommended to allow for slower traffic and to secure a convenient parking spot before the crowds build up.

For first-time visitors, driving in Moncton is generally a low-stress experience with manageable traffic. The city centre features a number of one-way streets, so it's important to pay close attention to signage when navigating the centre. Additionally, Moncton has several roundabouts which may be unfamiliar to some drivers; the key is to give way to traffic already in the circle. Outside of the downtown core, the road network is straightforward and easy to follow with a sat-nav.

When exploring downtown Moncton, you'll find a mix of on-street metered parking and public car parks. To avoid the frustration of circling for a space, the easiest strategy is to head directly to one of the designated public parking garages or surface car parks. There are several conveniently located near City Hall, the Avenir Centre, and along Main Street. Using one of these lots allows you to park once and then explore the restaurants and bars on foot, which is often more efficient on busy evenings.

Magnetic Hill Zoo is very family-friendly, offering a large, convenient car park located right at the main entrance. The walk from your car to the ticket gate is very short and on level ground, making it easy to manage with pushchairs and young children. To make the most of your visit, plan to arrive earlier in the day when animals are often more active and crowds are smaller. You should budget at least three to four hours to comfortably see all the exhibits without feeling rushed.

Absolutely, a day trip from Moncton to Hopewell Rocks is one of the most popular and manageable excursions in the region. The drive itself is only about 40 minutes each way along the scenic Route 114. The most critical part of planning is to check the tide schedule online for the day of your visit. By timing your arrival for an hour or two before low tide, you'll have ample time to walk on the ocean floor, explore the area, and drive back to Moncton without rushing.

The best way to plan your visit is to centre your schedule around the low tide time, which you can find online. Aim to arrive at the park about an hour before the tide is at its lowest point to maximise your time on the ocean floor. You can explore the upper viewing platforms and hiking trails before or after your walk among the sea stacks. A helpful feature is that your park admission is valid for the entire day, so you can even leave for lunch and return later to see the same rocks surrounded by water at high tide.

The drive from Moncton to Fundy National Park is generally considered scenic and relaxing rather than stressful. The main route, Highway 114, is a standard two-lane rural road that is well-paved and maintained. While it does have some gentle curves and rolling hills as you get closer to the coast, it is not an intimidating mountain road with sharp switchbacks. Traffic is typically light, allowing you to travel at a comfortable pace and enjoy the New Brunswick countryside.

The route from Moncton to Fundy National Park offers several convenient stopping points. The town of Hillsborough, which you'll pass through early in the drive, has petrol stations, a grocery store, and a few small cafés. A very popular stop is the village of Alma, located right at the park entrance, which has a variety of restaurants, bakeries, and public toilets. Many travellers also incorporate a stop at Hopewell Rocks, which is on the way and has its own restaurant and facilities.

On a sunny summer weekend, you should plan for the drive from Moncton to Parlee Beach to take approximately 30 to 45 minutes. While the journey is mostly on the efficient, multi-lane Route 15, traffic can get heavy as you approach the Shediac exits. The final stretch of road leading to the beach can also become congested. Arriving earlier in the day, before the peak crowds, is a good strategy to minimise delays and find better parking.

A great strategy for visiting Shediac is to park in the large public car park near the 'World's Largest Lobster' sculpture on the main waterfront. This central location places you within easy walking distance of several popular seafood restaurants, the marina, and the town's main street shops. By parking here once, you can enjoy the key attractions on foot. You can then make the short drive to Parlee Beach Provincial Park separately and use its dedicated beach parking.

The drive from Moncton to Bouctouche is very easy and pleasant, making it an excellent half-day trip. The journey takes about 35 to 40 minutes and primarily follows the modern, multi-lane Route 11 North. The roads are in great condition and the route is well-signed. This gives you plenty of time to explore the stunning boardwalk at the Irving Eco-Centre and visit other local attractions like Le Pays de la Sagouine without feeling rushed, before heading back to Moncton.

The most popular and accessible spot to watch the tidal bore is from Bore Park, located right on Main Street in downtown Moncton. The park has its own car park, and there is usually ample on-street parking available nearby. To get a good viewing spot along the riverfront trail, it's best to consult the online schedule for the bore's arrival time and get there about 15 to 20 minutes early. This gives you time to park, walk to the river, and find an unobstructed view.

To enjoy a relaxed trip to PEI, build some buffer time into your schedule and treat the journey as part of the adventure. The drive from Moncton to the Confederation Bridge takes about 90 minutes. Consider a brief stop at the Cape Jourimain Nature Centre on the New Brunswick side for great views of the bridge before you cross. The drive over the bridge itself takes only about 10–12 minutes, so you can take your time and enjoy the unique experience without needing to hurry.

The Confederation Bridge is engineered to provide a secure and comfortable driving experience, even for those with a fear of heights or bridges. It features high, solid concrete barriers along the entire length, which effectively block the view of the water below and focus your attention on the road ahead. The lanes are wide, the speed limit is moderate, and the incline is very gradual. The entire crossing feels more like driving on a regular motorway than being on a typical bridge and is over in about 10 to 12 minutes.

A day trip to Charlottetown from Moncton is possible but makes for a full day. The drive itself is approximately two hours each way, so you'll spend about four hours in the car round-trip. A realistic plan would be to leave Moncton early in the morning, giving you about five to six hours to explore Charlottetown's historic centre, waterfront, and enjoy a meal. Trying to see much more of the island in a single day would feel very rushed, so focusing on the capital city is the best approach.

The drive from Moncton to Halifax is exceptionally straightforward, as it almost entirely follows the Trans-Canada Highway. You will start on Highway 2 East out of Moncton, which becomes Highway 104 after you cross into Nova Scotia. Near Truro, take the well-marked exit for Highway 102 South, which leads directly into Halifax. The entire route consists of modern, dual carriageways, making for a simple and efficient drive of about 2.5 to 3 hours.

For a lovely and short scenic drive, consider exploring the Memramcook Valley, known as the 'Cradle of Acadia.' The local roads in this area, just south-east of Moncton, wind through picturesque rolling hills and charming villages. Another excellent option is to drive a portion of Route 114 along the Petitcodiac River towards Hillsborough. Both of these routes offer beautiful scenery and a peaceful, rural atmosphere, and can easily be enjoyed in just a couple of hours.

The drive to Cape Enrage is a scenic adventure that takes you along more rural roads. The main route via Highway 114 and then Highway 915 is paved, but you should expect some winding sections and areas where the road surface is less smooth. Mobile coverage can be intermittent, so it's a good idea to have your route loaded on a sat-nav or have a paper map as a backup. Before you leave the main towns like Hillsborough or Alma, make sure you have a full tank of petrol, plus some water and snacks, since services are very limited near the cape.

For a spectacular and convenient autumn drive, the roads through the Memramcook Valley just outside Moncton are an excellent choice. The area's rolling hills are covered in deciduous trees that display brilliant colours. Another great option is to take a drive along Route 114 towards Fundy National Park; even if you don't go all the way to the park, the initial part of the drive offers stunning autumn scenery. These routes provide the full fall colour experience and can easily be done in an afternoon.

Winter driving in New Brunswick can be more challenging than in many parts of the US due to the potential for heavy snowfall and cold temperatures. Main highways are well-maintained with ploughing and salting, but secondary and rural roads can remain snow-packed or icy for longer periods. A key difference is the potential for blowing snow in open areas, which can cause sudden white-out conditions and reduce visibility to near zero. It's essential to drive with caution, ensure your hire car is equipped with appropriate tyres, and always check road conditions before a long drive.

When a snowstorm is forecast, your best bet is to focus on activities within Moncton city limits. Plans like visiting Resurgo Place museum, shopping at CF Champlain mall, or exploring indoor markets are generally safe as city streets are prioritised for snow clearing. Long-distance drives to rural or coastal destinations like Hopewell Rocks, Fundy National Park, or PEI should be postponed. Highway conditions can deteriorate rapidly, and road closures are possible, so it's always wisest to stay local and safe.

Driving at night on the rural highways towards the Fundy coast requires heightened awareness. These roads are not typically lit outside the small towns you pass through, so your vehicle's headlights will be your primary source of illumination. Wildlife, especially deer and moose, are frequently active at dusk, dawn, and after dark, and they can pose a serious hazard. It is highly recommended to reduce your speed, scan the sides of the road continuously, and use your main beam whenever there is no oncoming traffic.

For late-night arrivals at YQM, you will find several 24-hour petrol stations and convenience stores along Dieppe Boulevard and near the interchange with the Trans-Canada Highway. This main corridor leading away from the airport is well-serviced and designed for travellers. These locations are perfect for fuelling up your hire car and grabbing essential items like drinks, snacks, or basic toiletries. You can easily take care of these needs before heading to your hotel for the night.

The single most important difference for American drivers is that all speeds and distances in New Brunswick are in the metric system. Speed limits are posted in kilometres per hour (km/h), not miles per hour (mph), so a sign reading '110' means 110 km/h, which is roughly 68 mph. Similarly, exit and distance signs will be in kilometres. While the shapes and colours of most road signs are internationally recognised and easy to understand, being mindful of the metric units is key to driving safely and legally.

Yes, you will see bilingual road signs in English and French throughout the Moncton area, as New Brunswick is an officially bilingual province. However, this poses no difficulty for navigation. Major signs for highways, exits, and street names are presented in both languages, making them easy for English-speaking visitors to follow. Sat-nav systems work perfectly and will provide directions in your selected language, so you can simply follow the voice prompts and route on the screen without any confusion.

Driving from the airport to either university is very straightforward. To get to Université de Moncton, you'll follow the main routes directly into the city; the campus is centrally located and has clear signage. For Mount Allison University in the nearby town of Sackville, you'll take the Trans-Canada Highway (Route 2) east for a simple 30–40 minute drive, with a clearly marked exit for the town. Both journeys are primarily on major, well-maintained roads, making for a stress-free trip.

During a major festival or a concert at the Avenir Centre, the downtown core experiences the heaviest traffic. Main Street and the surrounding cross-streets can become very congested, especially in the hours leading up to and following an event. Parking in this area also becomes extremely challenging. Another potential bottleneck is the area around Magnetic Hill if a large outdoor concert is scheduled there. Planning to arrive extra early or using alternative routes suggested by a sat-nav is highly advisable.

To create an efficient multi-stop itinerary, plan your day geographically from west to east. A logical flow would be to start your morning at Magnetic Hill, which is on the western side of Moncton. Afterwards, drive east into the city's centre for lunch and to explore the riverfront. In the afternoon, you can easily access Route 15 heading east for the short drive to Shediac and Parlee Beach. This linear route prevents unnecessary backtracking and maximises your sightseeing time.

The most convenient area for a major supermarket run is the Trinity Power Centre, located near the junction of the Trans-Canada Highway and Wheeler Boulevard. This large retail complex hosts several major supermarkets like Atlantic Superstore and Sobeys, all of which have expansive parking areas that are easy to navigate. Its prime location allows you to get on and off the main roads quickly, making it an ideal spot to stock up on supplies at the beginning of your trip without having to drive through busy town centres.

When driving a larger vehicle such as an SUV or people carrier in downtown Moncton, it's best to favour surface car parks over multi-storey car parks. While many modern garages can accommodate larger vehicles, some older ones may have lower clearance heights, so always check the posted height restrictions before entering. On-street parking spaces can also be a tight fit. For a hassle-free experience, the numerous open-air lots scattered throughout the downtown area are your simplest and safest parking option.

Driving on Route 2 (the Trans-Canada Highway) and Route 15 is a modern and straightforward experience. These are multi-lane, divided highways with high speed limits and are the primary arteries for getting around the region. The interchanges are generally well-designed and clearly signed for major destinations like Moncton, Shediac, Prince Edward Island, and Nova Scotia. Using a sat-nav for lane guidance can be helpful, but most visitors find the highway system intuitive and easy to navigate.

Crossing the provincial border between New Brunswick and Nova Scotia by car is a completely seamless process. You simply continue driving on the Trans-Canada Highway, and you will see a large sign welcoming you to the new province. There are no border stations, checkpoints, or tolls for passenger vehicles. It feels exactly like crossing a state line in the United States. Shortly after crossing into Nova Scotia, there is a large visitor information centre where you can stop for maps and travel advice if you wish.

A common mistake for visitors leaving the airport is becoming confused at the first few intersections or roundabouts before getting onto the main highway. The best way to prevent this is to programme your specific final destination into your sat-nav before you even put the car in drive. Instead of just entering 'Route 2', enter your hotel address or 'Hopewell Rocks.' This allows the navigation system to provide immediate turn-by-turn directions right from the hire car lot, guiding you through the airport road network and onto the correct highway ramp without any guesswork.

With a tight 48-hour schedule, the decision often comes down to your top priority. Most travellers choose to focus on the Bay of Fundy experience (Hopewell Rocks and Fundy National Park) because it is a unique, world-class natural wonder that is very close to Moncton. A trip to Shediac is a more relaxed choice, perfect for those prioritising beaches and a classic lobster dinner. A day trip to PEI is the most ambitious, involving the most driving time, and is typically chosen only by those with a specific desire to see the island and cross the Confederation Bridge.