Where History Meets Hospitality (and Icebergs!)
Fresh off the plane and stepping into St. John’s, Newfoundland, I was greeted by a sight that stopped me in my tracks – a vibrant tapestry of colorful houses clinging to the rugged coastline. This wasn’t your typical North American city. St. John’s, the oldest and most easterly city in Canada, boasts a unique charm that blends European flair with rugged Newfoundland character.
A Walk Through Time
History buffs, rejoice! St. John’s is a treasure trove of historical sites. Signal Hill, a national historic site, offers panoramic views of the city and the harbor. Here, you can explore the remnants of Cabot Tower, a 16th-century fortification, and imagine the pulse-pounding moments when brave explorers first spotted land.
A Foodie’s Paradise
No trip to St. John’s is complete without indulging in its world-famous seafood. George Street, the city’s vibrant pedestrian mall, is lined with cozy pubs and renowned restaurants. Be sure to try the local favorites – freshly caught cod tongues, pan-fried cod au gratin, and a steaming bowl of seafood chowder. Don’t forget to wash it all down with a local craft beer – Newfoundland boasts a thriving brewing scene!
Nature’s Majesty
While St. John’s offers a delightful urban experience, venturing out to explore the surrounding natural beauty is a must. Take a boat tour to witness the awe-inspiring power of icebergs calving from glaciers. Imagine the feeling of sailing alongside these majestic giants, glistening white against the sapphire blue water. For the landlubbers, hiking trails like the East Coast Trail offer stunning coastal vistas and a chance to spot whales, puffins, and other local wildlife.
Newfoundland Hospitality
Newfoundlanders are renowned for their warm and welcoming spirit. Strike up a conversation with a local at a pub and you’ll likely be treated to a lively chat, maybe even a song or two! Their infectious laughter and genuine kindness are sure to leave a lasting impression.
A City That Stays With You
St. John’s is a city that surprises and delights at every turn. From its historic charm and vibrant culture to its breathtaking natural beauty and friendly locals, this captivating city will leave you wanting more. So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to experience the magic of St. John’s, Newfoundland!
Discover Things To Do In St. John's
Must-Do's in St. John's, Newfoundland
| Category | Activity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| History & Culture | Signal Hill National Historic Site
| Explore historic fortifications, Cabot Tower, and stunning views of the city and harbour. Signal Hill is a historic hill that overlooks the harbour and city of St. John’s. The majority of Signal Hill, including Cabot Tower, is designated a National Historic Site of Canada. The highest point, Ladies’ Lookout, is 167 meters (548 ft) high. The iconic Cabot Tower, which was built to commemorate both the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Victoria in 1897 and the 400th anniversary of John Cabot’s landfall in 1497. |
| Food & Drink | George Street
| Stroll down the colourful pedestrian street, lined with pubs, restaurants, and lively music venues. George Street is a famous two-block street in St. John’s, known for its concentration of pubs, bars, and restaurants. It’s the heart of St. John’s nightlife scene and is affectionately nicknamed “The Biggest Little Street in North America” . |
| Nature & Outdoors | Hike or Bike the North Head Trail
| The North Head Trail is one of the most popular and intense hikes in St. John’s, Newfoundland. It’s a challenging trail rated as difficult (strenuous) by Parks Canada, but the scenic rewards are absolutely worth the effort. While the trail itself is only 1.7 kilometers long, it involves a 500-foot elevation change and over 100 stairs. The trail offers fantastic views of the St. John’s harbor, the rugged Newfoundland coastline, and the Atlantic Ocean. Hikers may even be able to spot whales, icebergs (in the spring), and seabirds during their trek. The trail descends through Ross’s Valley, a “hanging valley” formed by a glacier during the last ice age. It then winds along the edge of the North Atlantic before reaching the Narrows, Hay Cove, and Rolls Cove. The trail then follows a short stretch of Outer Battery Road before re-entering the park via the Harbour Vista Deck. The final section takes hikers past the Queen’s Battery and Gibbett Hill. |
| Museums & Galleries | The Rooms
| The Rooms is not actually referring to hotel rooms, but rather Newfoundland and Labrador’s largest public cultural space . It’s a must-visit destination if you’re interested in learning about the province’s rich history and vibrant culture. Here’s what you can expect at The Rooms:
The Rooms is located at 9 Bonaventure Avenue in the heart of St. John’s. It’s open daily from 9:30 am to 5:00 pm, and admission is $12 for adults, $7.80 for seniors and students, $6 for youth, and free for children under 5. |
| Quirky & Fun | Get Screeched
| Getting screeched in is a fun and quirky tradition in Newfoundland, Canada, specifically St. John’s. It’s a ceremony that welcomes visitors, or “come from aways” as they’re called locally, into the honorary status of a Newfoundlander. The ceremony typically involves the following:
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| Food & Drink | Quidi Vidi Village
| Nestled within St. John’s, Quidi Vidi Village offers a charming escape. Pronounced in various ways, this historic fishing community boasts brightly colored cottages lining the harbor. The working waterfront, known as “The Gut,” features traditional fishing stages, a glimpse into the village’s deep-rooted connection to the sea. Whether you’re browsing studios of local artisans, grabbing a pint of famous “Iceberg” beer, or simply soaking up the harbor atmosphere, Quidi Vidi promises a quintessential Newfoundland experience. |
| Shopping | Browse Downtown St. John’s
| Downtown St. John’s is a vibrant hub known for its colorful shops, historic sites, and friendly atmosphere. Here’s a taste of what you can expect while browsing downtown St. John’s:
Here are some tips for browsing downtown St. John’s:
I hope this helps you plan your browsing adventure in downtown St. John’s! |
| Family Fun | Pippy Park
| Pippy Park is a massive urban oasis right in the heart of St. John’s, Newfoundland. Spanning over 3,400 acres, it offers a wide range of activities and sights for visitors and locals alike. Here’s a breakdown of what Pippy Park has to offer: Outdoor Activities:
Other Attractions:
Things to Consider:
Here are some additional resources that you might find helpful:
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Photo by Jonathan Cooper
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