Sydney — Victoria, ns

Coal was first mined in Sydney in 1672. Nova Scotia’s first international trade of minerals was a shipment of coal sent to Boston in 1724.

Although the telephone wasn’t invented in Baddeck, Alexander Graham Bell did have a summer home here where he did much of his research. Today, his house is a National Historic Site and visitors can tour the museum and take part in hands-on activities.

Cape Breton is home to many famous musical artists including Celtic singing group The Barra MacNeils, renowned fiddler Ashley MacIssac, and singer-songwriter Rita MacNeil.