St. John’s, the capital of Newfoundland and Labrador, is a vibrant city steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty. Known as one of the oldest cities in North America, St. John’s offers a unique blend of colorful row houses, rugged coastal scenery, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Why Visit St. John’s?
- Rich History: Explore its role as a historic fishing port and its ties to the earliest European settlements.
- Natural Wonders: From icebergs to coastal cliffs, the scenery is breathtaking year-round.
- Lively Culture: A thriving arts scene, traditional Irish-Newfoundland music, and delicious local cuisine.
Top Attractions in St. John’s
1. Signal Hill National Historic Site
- Why Visit: A historic site where Guglielmo Marconi received the first transatlantic wireless signal in 1901.
- What to Do:
- Hike the North Head Trail for stunning views of the harbor and Atlantic Ocean.
- Explore Cabot Tower, which houses exhibits on Signal Hill’s history.
2. Quidi Vidi Village
- What It Is: A charming fishing village within St. John’s.
- What to See:
- Quidi Vidi Brewery: Try Iceberg Beer, made with pure iceberg water.
- Quidi Vidi Plantation: A hub for local artisans showcasing their crafts.
3. The Rooms
- What It Is: Newfoundland and Labrador’s premier cultural center and museum.
- Why Visit: Learn about the province’s history, art, and culture through engaging exhibits.
- Tip: Enjoy panoramic views of the city from the building’s café.
4. Cape Spear Lighthouse National Historic Site
- Why Visit: The easternmost point of North America.
- Highlights:
- The historic lighthouse, built in 1836.
- Spectacular sunrise views over the Atlantic Ocean.
5. Jellybean Row Houses
- What They Are: Brightly colored row houses that have become a symbol of St. John’s.
- What to Do: Wander through downtown streets to admire and photograph these iconic buildings.
6. George Street
- Why Visit: Known for its lively nightlife and pubs.
- What to Expect: Live music, local beers, and traditional Newfoundland “screech-ins” (a humorous ceremony involving a shot of rum).
Activities in and Around St. John’s
1. Whale Watching and Iceberg Tours
- Best Time: May to September.
- Where to Go: Boat tours depart from St. John’s or nearby areas like Bay Bulls.
2. Hiking
- East Coast Trail: A network of trails offering stunning coastal views, including cliffs, waterfalls, and wildlife.
3. Culinary Experiences
- Try local dishes like Jiggs’ Dinner, cod tongues, and toutons (fried dough served with molasses).
4. Explore Water Street
- One of the oldest streets in North America, filled with shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Day Trips from St. John’s
1. Bell Island
- Why Visit: Known for its underground iron mines and beautiful coastline.
- Activities: Take the ferry to explore the Bell Island Mine Museum and sandy beaches.
2. Petty Harbour
- What It Is: A quaint fishing village just 15 minutes from St. John’s.
- Activities: Ziplining, sea kayaking, and learning about marine life at the Mini Aquarium.
Best Time to Visit St. John’s
Summer (June to August)
- Ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, whale watching, and exploring coastal villages.
Spring (May to June)
- Best for iceberg viewing.
Autumn (September to October)
- Cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, with stunning fall foliage.
Winter (November to March)
- Great for cozy indoor experiences, but outdoor activities are limited due to snow and storms.
Getting Around St. John’s
By Foot
- The downtown area is walkable, especially for exploring shops, restaurants, and historic sites.
By Car
- Renting a car is recommended for exploring Cape Spear, Quidi Vidi, and other outlying attractions.
Public Transport
- Metrobus operates within the city, but coverage is limited compared to driving.
Where to Stay in St. John’s
Luxury
- The Inn by Mallard Cottage: A boutique inn with charming, rustic elegance in Quidi Vidi.
- Delta Hotels by Marriott St. John’s: Centrally located with harbor views.
Mid-Range
- The Murray Premises Hotel: A cozy, historic hotel near the waterfront.
Budget
- HI St. John’s City Hostel: Affordable and conveniently located.
Local Cuisine to Try
1. Cod Tongues
- Fried cod fish served with scrunchions (crispy pork fat).
2. Jiggs’ Dinner
- A traditional boiled meal with salted beef, cabbage, potatoes, and carrots.
3. Toutons
- Fried dough served with butter and molasses.
4. Iceberg Beer
- A unique beer brewed with melted iceberg water.
Tips for Visiting St. John’s
- Pack for Changing Weather: St. John’s is known for its unpredictable weather, so layers are essential.
- Book Tours Early: Popular activities like whale watching and iceberg tours fill up quickly in summer.
- Learn Local Phrases: Newfoundlanders are friendly and have a unique dialect—don’t hesitate to ask locals to explain!
- Respect Nature: Stick to marked trails and respect wildlife habitats.
FAQs About St. John’s
1. Is St. John’s family-friendly?
Yes! The city offers family-friendly activities like visiting The Rooms, Signal Hill, and the East Coast Trail.
2. What’s a “screech-in”?
A fun ceremony where visitors kiss a codfish, take a shot of rum, and recite a local saying to become honorary Newfoundlanders.
3. How many days should I spend in St. John’s?
3–4 days is ideal to explore the city and nearby attractions like Cape Spear and Quidi Vidi.
4. Is St. John’s expensive to visit?
St. John’s is affordable compared to other Canadian cities, with options for all budgets.
Final Thoughts
St. John’s is a city that blends history, culture, and breathtaking natural beauty. Whether you’re exploring Signal Hill, enjoying fresh seafood, or watching icebergs drift by, this Atlantic gem promises an unforgettable experience.
Plan your trip to St. John’s and discover why it’s one of Canada’s most captivating coastal cities!