Corner Brook, Newfoundland: Captain James Cook Historic Site

Captain James Cook is most famous for his work as an explorer and Navy officer who was the first European to visit Australia and the Hawaiian Islands, and he all sailed around the islands of New Zealand. All of that came between 1768 and 1779.

Yet it was in Newfoundland where the good Captain built his reputation. 

Cook spent the years between 1763 and 1767 surveying the island of Newfoundland. He did such good work that he was a natural to continue on as the British headed for the Pacific to look around. Cook had some success before an incident involving the Hawaiian natives led to his death in 1779.

The Captain is saluted on a scenic view in Corner Brook that overlooks the harbor and some islands. There are kiosks with information about his life, and a statue saluting him. It's a draw for tourist groups for obvious reasons, so don't be afraid to be patient to wait them out to enjoy the view.