Saint John New Brunswick simply may be probably the most underrated metropolis in Canada. And through our two visits, we discovered loads of issues to do in Saint John, that may fully 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 shortly become 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 grew to become a significant hub as a result of its inviting harbour. The town has been having a renaissance this previous decade with Millenials opening companies and artists organising store. If you’re planning an East Coast highway journey, make sure you put Saint John, New Brunswick in your listing. Fundy Nationwide Park, situated in southern New Brunswick, is well accessible from Saint John and presents wilderness areas, wildlife, and scenic landscapes. These are the highest sights in Saint John and the very best 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 situated within the coronary heart of town. We advise spending at the very least two nights to absorb the vitality of the city and to discover the nightlife.
1. Reversing Falls
As one native mentioned to us, “The Reversing Falls of Saint John might be probably the most overrated attraction within the metropolis, however the science behind it’s attention-grabbing.” And when you perceive that the Bay of Fundy is so highly effective that it reverses the stream of the Saint John River twice a day, it’s fairly cool.
We checked it out from two completely different viewpoints. I extremely suggest going to the Reversing Falls Skywalk and Bridge to see it from above.
Saint John itself s situated on the Bay of Fundy creating a singular 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 stream. It’s a cool factor to see the river flowing a method after which smashing towards the tide creating rapids and whirlpools.
2. Market Sq.
This cool road has stored its historic really feel with eateries and bars inside constructing facades relationship again to the 1800s. It has that outdated world allure with a hip trendy vibe.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 purchasing. At evening, issues actually kick off with folks bar hopping and outside leisure happening on the waterfront.
Cool truth: The New Brunswick Museum can be situated 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 via to purchase some snacks on your highway journey or for a picnic within the park. Seize some bread and cheese on the beautiful market and have a picnic in King’s Sq., a vibrant park with a singular design that resembles the British flag and is near native sights just like the Saint John Metropolis Market. It is a great spot to finish your stroll after shopping 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 conflict heroes. And it’s located in a beautiful setting with park benches and greenery surrounding the principle pavilion, making it the right spot for a day picnic.
5. Barbour’s Common Retailer
Barbour’s Common Retailer is a really cool museum and store that dates again to the 1800s. It is a great spot to start out your tour of Saint John. It was initially inbuilt Northern New Brunswick and delivered to Saint John in 29167.
The Saint John customer’s centre is situated inside the place you possibly can e book excursions and choose up info on the world. And get info 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 situated on the Bay of Fundy. It’s crammed with historical past from the early settlers and a captivating maritime previous.
It’s value taking one in every of its historic walks to study extra a few metropolis that dates again to 1604 when Samuel de Champlain proclaimed the identify St. John. It was one other 25 years earlier than a buying and selling put up was constructed right here.
The world noticed many historic occasions together with the American Revolution the place 14,000 Loyalists settled alongside the St. John River. At present you possibly can 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 strategy to discover the structure and streets of Saint John.
7. Loyalist Path
Stroll the Loyalist Path all through the downtown core to observe within the footsteps of early settlers. There are indicators all through town that includes plaques and buildings showcasing the historical past of the People who settled the world after the American Revolution. Right here you’ll see the loyalist cemetery and picturesque gardens.
Stops on the Loyalist Path Embrace:
County Courtroom, King’s Sq.
Metropolis Market
The Previous Burial Floor at Sydney Avenue
Stone Church on Carlton Avenue
Loyalist Home on Union Avenue
Barbour’s Common 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 a neighborhood businessman by the identify of Walter Golding.
Golding opened the vaudeville theatre attracting the likes of Ethel Barrymore and Harry Houdini. It has lately been renovated and the historic decor will knock you off your toes. You’ll be able to 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 Evening 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’ll take a gallery tour to see all of them. The folks of Saint John are welcoming and can fortunately invite you in for a chat to speak concerning the artists and artwork of show.
When you 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 situated close to Bayshore Seaside, if you find yourself there, head right down to the water for a bit of little bit of seaside time.
12. Climbing Trails Irving Nature Park
If you’re in search of issues to do in Saint John open air, 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 completely different ecosystems, it’s an attention-grabbing hike. We stumbled upon a protracted sandy seaside that we walked hand in hand in solitude and it’s a great spot for fowl watching and watching the Bay of Fundy.
13. Sundown at Fort Howe
The very best 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 conflict of 1812. It is only one of 9 remaining Martello Towers in Canada that have been vital forts for conserving watch over the port. It’s a nationwide historic website 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 presents 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 great spot for a time out. Wildlife fanatics can preserve an eye fixed out for deer, numerous fowl species, and fish within the park’s waters. Open year-round, Rockwood Park presents guided excursions and academic packages that cater to guests of all ages, making it a unbelievable 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 great thing about Saint John. Whether or not you’re seeking to loosen up 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 anyplace in Canada, we suggest having your personal automotive. We booked a automotive rental for our highway journey giving us lots of flexibility. And with low cost parking throughout the road, we set out day by day to discover the sights in and across the metropolis. Most sights are anyplace from 10 minutes to 2-hours away.
Fundy Nationwide Park, situated in southern New Brunswick, presents gorgeous wilderness areas, numerous wildlife, and scenic landscapes, making it a must-visit vacation spot.
When you go to Saint John, New Brunswick, listed here are the principle sights you can not 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 purpose. 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 Sights. Day by day 100 million tons of water drain from the Bay of Fundy revealing the ocean flooring. That is your probability 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’ll be able to 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 go away and you’ve got all of it to yourselves. There are corporations that supply kayaking round Hopewell Rocks at excessive tide and that is extremely really helpful. We kayaked the Three Sisters on the opposite aspect 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 at the very least 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 gorgeous drive, however please do get out of the automotive to absorb the beautiful waterfalls, bogs, beaver ponds and boardwalks. When you determine 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, seaside explorations and indigenous experiences.
19. Cape Enrage
Cape Enrage will not be solely a stunning scenic cease on the coast, however it is usually a gorgeous drive. Driving via the winding roads, we stopped usually to absorb the views earlier than popping out at a rocky seaside crammed with Inukshuks.
When the tide is out, the rock led to an enormous sandbar the place you possibly can 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 undoubtedly equipped for a climb.
20. St. Martins Lined Bridges
St. Martins is a gorgeous historic city that isn’t removed from Saint John. Whereas we suggest staying an evening right here, it could actually simply be completed as a day journey to see it’s superb surroundings together with its 2 coated bridges. New Brunswick is understood for its historic coated bridges. You could find them scattered all through the province. However there are two situated very near Saint John within the city of St. Martins.
When you time it proper, you possibly can expertise the very best of the Bay of Fundy at low tide. We went early within the morning to keep away from crowds and 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 seaside spying eagles perched on the pier in search of their prey. You’ll want 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 nearly disappear at excessive tide, however when the water goes out, you possibly can stroll all the way in which out to discover inside. These caves are large and spectacular.
The crimson cliffs appeal to photographers from all over the world to seize these iconic Instagram pictures. 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 just 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 might solely see this scenic stretch of shoreline by mountaineering the Fundy Footpath (68 km lengthy). However at this time anybody can discover the coast by automotive with the choice to get out and hike just a few km to see seashores, gorges and waterfalls.
Hikes vary from 300 (984 toes) metres lengthy to 4.4 km. (2.73 miles) It is likely one of the most scenic drives in Canada with unbelievable views of large sea cliffs. What we love about this drive is that the pace restrict is simply 40 km (24mph) and there are a number of pull-offs to absorb the view.
23. Break up Rock at Duck Pond Seaside
We by no means would have recognized 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 instructed 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 crimson cliffs stretching out to the ocean. The cliffs are situated on a seaside the place you possibly can unfold out a blanket to absorb the view.
24. Alma
Alma is a city situated on the entrance to Fundy Nationwide Park and is a captivating fishing village that’s value spending a while in. It has lots of completely different choices for eating and some locations for lodging.
There are present retailers and bookstores reminding me a little bit of the small cities situated alongside Route 66. Within the summertime, this place is buzzing. It’s right here that you may seize one other a kind of iconic pictures 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 surprise that boasts a number of the highest tides on the earth. This gorgeous bay is a haven for outside fanatics, providing actions like kayaking, whale watching, and mountaineering. The bay’s wealthy biodiversity consists of whales, dolphins, and a wide range of seabirds, making it a primary spot for wildlife remark.
Acknowledged as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the Bay of Fundy is widely known for its distinctive pure and cultural heritage. Guests can discover the bay via 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 in search of journey or tranquility, the Bay of Fundy presents 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 possibly can eat on the patio or inside.
East Coast Bistro – East Coast Bistro is an upscale restaurant that’s good for a romantic evening out. We strolled alongside Prince William Avenue to the inviting diner the place we ate wine and cheese whereas ready for our principal course. I’ll undoubtedly be consuming there once more.
Saint John Ale Home – Situated close to Lemongrass at Market Sq., Saint John Ale Home is one other great spot to eat. Its upscale pub fare presents lots of selection with a rotating menu. Like Lemongrass, it has a patio the place you possibly can take within the motion on the boardwalk.
Italian by Evening – This was our favorite meal in Saint John. The genuine Italian cuisines made us really feel as if we had stepped into a bit of 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 possibly can order meals right here too.
The place to Keep in Saint John
The Hilton Saint John is an efficient central location on the water that’s inside strolling distance to all of the downtown sights. Plus, you possibly can by no means go flawed with a Hilton. Take a look at charges and Availability on TripAdvisor / Reserving.com
Delta Inns 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. Procuring Advanced, 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 various issues to do in Saint John and the encircling space.
When you add it to your itinerary, you gained’t be upset.
When you ask somebody from Saint John what makes it so particular, the unanimous reply would be the folks. And we agree! The folks of Saint John are the friendliest in Canada and are completely happy to lend a serving to hand, supply recommendation and simply say good day within the morning if you are out on your espresso. When you journey to Saint John New Brunswick, you’ll make reminiscences to final a lifetime.