Saint John New Brunswick simply is likely to be probably the most underrated metropolis in Canada. And through our two visits, we discovered loads of issues to do in Saint John, that can utterly shock you. With historic buildings transformed to stylish espresso retailers and micro brewpubs, native artists organising store downtown, and nature at your fingertips, Saint John has rapidly changed into one in every of Canada’s coolest cities to go to.
Issues to do in Saint John, New Brunswick
Saint John, NB is one in every of Canada’s oldest cities relationship again to 1604. Found by Samuel de Champlain, it turned a significant hub attributable to its inviting harbour. The town has been having a renaissance this previous decade with Millenials opening companies and artists organising store. In case you are planning an East Coast highway journey, remember to put Saint John, New Brunswick in your record. Fundy Nationwide Park, positioned in southern New Brunswick, is well accessible from Saint John and affords wilderness areas, wildlife, and scenic landscapes. These are the highest sights in Saint John and the perfect day journeys from town.
Whereas the rugged coast of New Brunswick is a significant draw highway tripper, there are many issues to do in Saint John positioned within the coronary heart of town. We recommend spending a minimum of two nights to soak up the vitality of the city and to discover the nightlife.
1. Reversing Falls
As one native stated to us, “The Reversing Falls of Saint John is probably the most overrated attraction in the city, but the science behind it is interesting.” And when you perceive that the Bay of Fundy is so highly effective that it reverses the movement of the Saint John River twice a day, it’s fairly cool.
We checked it out from two totally different viewpoints. I extremely suggest going to the Reversing Falls Skywalk and Bridge to see it from above.
Saint John itself s positioned on the Bay of Fundy creating a novel phenomenon because the Bay of Fundy’s excessive tide collides with the Saint John River. Because the tides rise, it overpowers the river reversing the movement. It’s a cool factor to see the river flowing a technique after which smashing towards the tide creating rapids and whirlpools.
2. Market Sq.
This cool avenue has saved its historic really feel with eateries and bars inside constructing facades relationship again to the 1800s. It has that previous world appeal with a hip trendy vibe.
Stroll alongside North Market Wharf’s waterfront boardwalk the place you’ll occur upon festivals and music occasions on the outside stage. Pop right into a pub or restaurant and do some buying. At night time, issues actually kick off with individuals bar hopping and outside leisure happening on the waterfront.
Cool truth: The New Brunswick Museum can also be positioned at Market Sq.. It’s Canada’s oldest continuous-running museum!
3. Saint John Metropolis Market
Metropolis Market is an indoor market in downtown Saint John and it’s good to walk by way of to purchase some snacks on your highway journey or for a picnic within the park. Seize some bread and cheese on the pretty market and have a picnic in King’s Sq., a vibrant park with a novel design that resembles the British flag and is near native sights just like the Saint John Metropolis Market. This can be a excellent spot to finish your stroll after searching the Saint John Galleries.
4. Kings Sq.
Established in 1734, King’s Sq. was named after King George III. There are statues and monuments devoted to nice Canadians and warfare heroes. And it’s located in a beautiful setting with park benches and greenery surrounding the principle pavilion, making it the proper spot for a day picnic.
5. Barbour’s Normal Retailer
Barbour’s Normal Retailer is a really cool museum and store that dates again to the 1800s. This can be a excellent spot to begin your tour of Saint John. It was initially in-built Northern New Brunswick and dropped at Saint John in 29167.
The Saint John customer’s centre is positioned inside the place you’ll be able to e book excursions and decide up data on the world. And get data on touring downtown for the historic walks of Saint John.
6. Historic Walks of Saint John New Brunswick
Saint John is Canada oldest metropolis and the one metropolis positioned on the Bay of Fundy. It’s full of historical past from the early settlers and an interesting maritime previous.
It’s value taking one in every of its historic walks to be taught extra a few metropolis that dates again to 1604 when Samuel de Champlain proclaimed the title St. John. It was one other 25 years earlier than a buying and selling publish was constructed right here.
The realm noticed many historic occasions together with the American Revolution the place 14,000 Loyalists settled alongside the St. John River. Right this moment you’ll be able to hint that historical past alongside the Loyalist Path, Victorian Stroll, and Prince William Stroll.
Every self-guided strolling tour takes about 1.5 hours and is an attention-grabbing method to discover the structure and streets of Saint John.
7. Loyalist Path
Stroll the Loyalist Path all through the downtown core to comply with within the footsteps of early settlers. There are indicators all through town that includes plaques and buildings showcasing the historical past of the Individuals who settled the world after the American Revolution. Right here you’ll see the loyalist cemetery and picturesque gardens.
Stops on the Loyalist Path Embody:
- County Court docket, King’s Sq.
- Metropolis Market
- The Previous Burial Floor at Sydney Avenue
- Stone Church on Carlton Avenue
- Loyalist Home on Union Avenue
- Barbour’s Normal Retailer.
8. Historic Imperial Theatre
The Imperial Theatre is a beautiful historic theatre with a connection to Hollywood. Louis B. Mayer (MGM Studios fame) grew up in Saint John and mentored an area businessman by the title of Walter Golding.
Golding opened the vaudeville theatre attracting the likes of Ethel Barrymore and Harry Houdini. It has not too long ago been renovated and the historic decor will knock you off your toes. You possibly can take a tour of the theatre, or see a present!
9. Grannan and Germain
That is the good nook in Saint John. Right here you’ll discover quirky retailers, artist galleries, and loads of decisions for meals, bars, and pubs. Seize dinner at Italian by Night time that serves scrumptious genuine Italian meals after which end off on the cozy sofas of Port Metropolis Royal for cocktails.
10. Downtown Artwork Galleries
There are many artists which have arrange store in Saint John and you may take a gallery tour to see all of them. The individuals of Saint John are welcoming and can fortunately invite you in for a chat to speak concerning the artists and artwork of show.
For those who proceed strolling to Princess Avenue from Grannan, you’ll come to many galleries and workshops. Pop into the historic warehouses and also you’ll discover artists studios showcasing distinctive artistic endeavors.
11. Cape Spencer Lighthouse
Only a quick drive out of town is the Cape Spencer Lighthouse. The lighthouse itself isn’t spectacular, however the view is phenomenal. Excessive cliffs overlook the Bay of Fundy with the lighthouse standing proud on a steep hill reaching 200 toes above the bay.
It’s positioned close to Bayshore Seashore, when you’re there, head right down to the water for somewhat little bit of seashore time.
12. Mountaineering Trails Irving Nature Park
In case you are searching for issues to do in Saint John outdoor, there are many issues to do close to town. Irving Nature Park has loads of mountaineering trails with lookouts to spectacular views of The Bay of Fundy. With 6 totally different ecosystems, it’s an attention-grabbing hike. We stumbled upon an extended sandy seashore that we walked hand in hand in solitude and it’s a excellent spot for hen watching and watching the Bay of Fundy.
13. Sundown at Fort Howe
The perfect place in Saint John for sundown is Fort Howe. Climb to the highest of the hill and watch the solar go down over town with the Trinity Church Steeple entrance and centre.
14. Carlton Martello Tower
Martello Tower dates again to the warfare of 1812. It is only one of 9 remaining Martello Towers in Canada that have been vital forts for preserving watch over the port. It’s a nationwide historic web site and value a go to. The construction has been restored with military barracks, jail, and gun powder rooms relationship again to 1865.
15. Rockwood Park
Rockwood Park is a sprawling 2,200-acre oasis within the coronary heart of Saint John, New Brunswick. This pure gem affords a various array of landscapes, from dense forests and serene lakes to lush wetlands. Whether or not you’re an avid hiker, a biking fanatic, or somebody who likes to paddle, Rockwood Park has one thing for everybody.
Households will discover loads of picnic areas and playgrounds, making it a super spot for a day trip. Wildlife lovers can preserve a watch out for deer, varied hen species, and fish within the park’s waters. Open year-round, Rockwood Park affords guided excursions and academic applications that cater to guests of all ages, making it a incredible vacation spot for nature images and birdwatching.
One of many park’s highlights is the 1.5 km Rockwood Park Path, good for a leisurely stroll to soak within the pure fantastic thing about Saint John. Whether or not you’re seeking to calm down or embark on an outside journey, Rockwood Park is a must-visit vacation spot in Saint John, New Brunswick.
Saint John Day Journeys
When travelling wherever in Canada, we suggest having your personal automotive. We booked a automotive rental for our highway journey giving us a number of flexibility. And with low cost parking throughout the road, we set out every day to discover the sights in and across the metropolis. Most sights are wherever from 10 minutes to 2-hours away.
Fundy Nationwide Park, positioned in southern New Brunswick, affords beautiful wilderness areas, various wildlife, and scenic landscapes, making it a must-visit vacation spot.
For those who go to Saint John, New Brunswick, listed below are the principle sights you can’t miss.
16. Hopewell Rocks
The Hopewell Rocks are in all probability probably the most well-known attraction on all of New Brunswick and with good cause. Situated 2 hours from Saint John, they make for a wonderful day journey from town.
These flower pot rocks grace the covers of magazines and journey guides at any time when one searches for Canadian East Coast Points of interest. Every single day 100 million tons of water drain from the Bay of Fundy revealing the ocean flooring. That is your likelihood to witness the world’s highest tides.
Guests can stroll for hours alongside the Bay of Fundy taking within the large rock formation uncovered by the tides. Control tidal instances to plan your go to. You possibly can stroll across the rocks 3 hours earlier than and three hours after low tide.
We suggest visiting round sundown. As soon as the solar goes down, most individuals depart and you’ve got all of it to yourselves. There are corporations that provide kayaking round Hopewell Rocks at excessive tide and that is extremely really helpful. We kayaked the Three Sisters on the opposite facet of the Bay of Fundy in Nova Scotia and it was a spotlight of our journey!
17. Fundy Nationwide Park
Fundy Nationwide Park is one in every of Canada’s Premier Nationwide Parks Situated between Hopewell Rocks and Saint John, it’s only a 1-hour drive from town. Spend a minimum of a day exploring the gorgeous surroundings and mountaineering trails of the park. Trails vary from quick 100 metre walks to eight km treks. Learn extra at: The Most Lovely Nationwide Parks in Canada
18. Waterfalls
It’s a ravishing drive, however please do get out of the automotive to soak up the stunning waterfalls, bogs, beaver ponds and boardwalks. For those who resolve to in a single day within the park, there are a number of choices from tenting to cabin leases, yurts and oTENTiks.
You may also e book guided walks on the park headquarters to discover the Medicinal forests, seashore explorations and indigenous experiences.
19. Cape Enrage
Cape Enrage isn’t solely a beautiful scenic cease on the coast, however it’s also a ravishing drive. Driving by way of the winding roads, we stopped often to soak up the views earlier than popping out at a rocky seashore full of Inukshuks.
When the tide is out, the rock led to a large sandbar the place you’ll be able to stroll out 200 metres alongside the ocean flooring.
Just a bit farther alongside is the Cape Enrage lighthouse sitting atop a towering cliff. Convey a picnic to benefit from the view or have a espresso and snack on the restaurant.
There are additionally some adventures available together with a zipper line and 46-metre (150 foot) rappelling wall. We didn’t know concerning the mountaineering wall, or we might have positively equipped for a climb.
20. St. Martins Coated Bridges
St. Martins is a ravishing historic city that isn’t removed from Saint John. Whereas we suggest staying an evening right here, it will probably simply be carried out as a day journey to see it’s superb surroundings together with its 2 coated bridges. New Brunswick is thought for its historic coated bridges. You could find them scattered all through the province. However there are two positioned very near Saint John within the city of St. Martins.
For those who time it proper, you’ll be able to expertise the perfect of the Bay of Fundy at low tide. We went early within the morning to keep away from crowds and site visitors and explored at low tide. The city was quiet and fishing boats sat on dry land ready for the tides to return in. The ocean flooring was uncovered and we walked alongside the rocky seashore spying eagles perched on the pier searching for their prey. Make sure to take a stroll on the paths close to the lighthouse for higher views of the river and bridges.
21. Caves of St Martins
The Caves of St. Martin are additionally to not be missed! St. Martin Caves virtually disappear at excessive tide, however when the water goes out, you’ll be able to stroll all the best way out to discover inside. These caves are large and spectacular.
The pink cliffs entice photographers from around the globe to seize these iconic Instagram photographs. Don’t neglect to go across the nook to discover much more caves and cliffs.
And ensure come again later within the day to see the caves at excessive tide. You’ll be amazed to see how a lot water covers the bottom that you simply walked on hours earlier. You may also e book kayaking journeys in St. Martins to exit and discover the Bay of Fundy.
22. Fundy Path Parkway
St. Martins is the gateway to the Fundy Path. The Fundy Path Parkway is a 30km (19mile) drive alongside the coast of New Brunswick. At one time, guests may solely see this scenic stretch of shoreline by mountaineering the Fundy Footpath (68 km lengthy). However in the present day anybody can discover the coast by automotive with the choice to get out and hike a couple of km to see seashores, gorges and waterfalls.
Hikes vary from 300 (984 toes) metres lengthy to 4.4 km. (2.73 miles) It is among the most scenic drives in Canada with unbelievable views of large sea cliffs. What we love about this drive is that the velocity restrict is simply 40 km (24mph) and there are a number of pull-offs to soak up the view.
23. Break up Rock at Duck Pond Seashore
We by no means would have identified of this spot have been it not for Ingrid at Bunkhaus Hostel. We have been trying to find a spot to spend dawn and she or he advised Duck Pond Street, simply 40 minutes outdoors town.
Whereas crowds gathered on the cliffs of St. Martins, we had the view of the Cliffs of Simonds all to ourselves. They’re simply as spectacular as St. Martins with pink cliffs stretching out to the ocean. The cliffs are positioned on a seashore the place you’ll be able to unfold out a blanket to soak up the view.
24. Alma
Alma is a city positioned on the entrance to Fundy Nationwide Park and is a captivating fishing village that’s value spending a while in. It has a number of totally different choices for eating and some locations for lodging.
There are reward retailers and bookstores reminding me a little bit of the small cities positioned alongside Route 66. Within the summertime, this place is buzzing. It’s right here that you would be able to seize one other a type of iconic photographs of fishing boats tied to the pier sitting on dry land ready for the tide to return in.
25. Bay of Fundy
The Bay of Fundy, nestled between New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, is a pure marvel that boasts a number of the highest tides on the planet. This beautiful bay is a haven for outside lovers, providing actions like kayaking, whale watching, and mountaineering. The bay’s wealthy biodiversity contains whales, dolphins, and a wide range of seabirds, making it a first-rate spot for wildlife commentary.
Acknowledged as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the Bay of Fundy is well known for its distinctive pure and cultural heritage. Guests can discover the bay by way of guided excursions that delve into its fascinating historical past, geology, and wildlife. With quite a few seashores and coves, the Bay of Fundy is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, fishing, and boating. Whether or not you’re looking for journey or tranquility, the Bay of Fundy affords an unforgettable expertise in New Brunswick.
The place to Eat in Saint John
Lemongrass & Peppers Pub – Lemongrass had genuine Thai Delicacies that was very satisfying. Situated at Market Sq. you’ll be able to eat on the patio or inside.
East Coast Bistro – East Coast Bistro is an upscale restaurant that’s good for a romantic night time out. We strolled alongside Prince William Avenue to the inviting diner the place we ate wine and cheese whereas ready for our most important course. I’ll positively be consuming there once more.
Saint John Ale Home – Situated close to Lemongrass at Market Sq., Saint John Ale Home is one other excellent spot to eat. Its upscale pub fare affords a number of selection with a rotating menu. Like Lemongrass, it has a patio the place you’ll be able to take within the motion on the boardwalk.
Italian by Night time – This was our favorite meal in Saint John. The genuine Italian cuisines made us really feel as if we had stepped into somewhat nook of Italy.
Port Metropolis Royal – Port Metropolis Royal has an inviting environment with uncovered brick and a snug leather-based sofa that invitations patrons to combine and mingle. Nice for a cocktail after your meal, or you’ll be able to order meals right here too.
The place to Keep in Saint John
- The Hilton Saint John is an effective central location on the water that’s inside strolling distance to all of the downtown sights. Plus, you’ll be able to by no means go improper with a Hilton. Try charges and Availability on TripAdvisor / Reserving.com
- Delta Motels by Marriott is one other nice location downtown. Simply 25 minutes from Saint John Airport within the coronary heart of downtown. The indoor pedway system connects it to Saint John Metropolis Market, Brunswick Sq. Buying Complicated, Metropolis Corridor, the Canada Video games Aquatic Centre, Harbour Station. View it on TripAdvisor / Reserving.com
Saint John, New Brunswick will certainly shock you. Many individuals overlook journey to New Brunswick when visiting the East Coast, however there are numerous issues to do in Saint John and the encompassing space.
For those who add it to your itinerary, you received’t be disenchanted.
For those who ask somebody from Saint John what makes it so particular, the unanimous reply would be the individuals. And we agree! The individuals of Saint John are the friendliest in Canada and are joyful to lend a serving to hand, provide recommendation and simply say whats up within the morning when you are out on your espresso. For those who journey to Saint John New Brunswick, you’ll make reminiscences to final a lifetime.
