25 Greatest Issues to do in Saint John, New Brunswick

Saint John New Brunswick simply is perhaps probably the most underrated metropolis in Canada. And through our two visits, we discovered loads of issues to do in Saint John, that may 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 shortly become one among Canada’s coolest cities to go to.

Issues to do in Saint John, New Brunswick

Saint John, NB is one among Canada’s oldest cities courting again to 1604. Found by Samuel de Champlain, it turned a serious hub on account 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, you should definitely put Saint John, New Brunswick in your record. Fundy Nationwide Park, positioned in southern New Brunswick, is definitely 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 serious draw highway tripper, there are many issues to do in Saint John positioned within the coronary heart of town. We recommend spending not less than 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 movement of the Saint John River twice a day, it’s fairly cool.

We checked it out from two completely different viewpoints. I extremely advocate 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 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 movement. It’s a cool factor to see the river flowing a method after which smashing in opposition to the tide creating rapids and whirlpools.

2. Market Sq.

This cool road has saved its historic really feel with eateries and bars inside constructing facades courting again to the 1800s. It has that outdated world appeal with a hip fashionable vibe.

Stroll alongside North Market Wharf’s waterfront boardwalk the place you’ll occur upon festivals and music occasions on the out of doors stage. Pop right into a pub or restaurant and do some buying. At evening, issues actually kick off with folks bar hopping and out of doors leisure going down 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 excellent to walk via to purchase some snacks in 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 singular design that resembles the British flag and is near native sights just like the Saint John Metropolis Market. This can be a excellent place 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 battle heroes. And it’s located in a stunning setting with park benches and greenery surrounding the principle pavilion, making it the proper spot for a day picnic.

5. Barbour’s Basic Retailer

Barbour’s Basic Retailer is a really cool museum and store that dates again to the 1800s. This can be a excellent place to start out 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 may e book excursions and decide up data on the realm. 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 crammed with historical past from the early settlers and an enchanting maritime previous.

It’s price taking one among its historic walks to be taught 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 publish 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 this time you may 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 People who settled the realm after the American Revolution. Right here you’ll see the loyalist cemetery and picturesque gardens.

Stops on the Loyalist Path Embrace:

• County Court docket, King’s Sq.
• Metropolis Market
• The Outdated Burial Floor at Sydney Avenue
• Stone Church on Carlton Avenue
• Loyalist Home on Union Avenue
• Barbour’s Basic 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 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 ft. 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 selections for meals, bars, and pubs. Seize dinner at Italian by Evening that serves scrumptious genuine Italian meals after which end off on the comfortable 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 folks of Saint John are welcoming and can fortunately invite you in for a chat to speak in regards to the artists and artwork of show.

In case 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 ft above the bay.

It’s positioned close to Bayshore Seaside, when you’re there, head all the way down to the water for a bit little bit of seaside time.

12. Mountain climbing Trails Irving Nature Park

If you’re in search of issues to do in Saint John outside, there are many issues to do close to town. Irving Nature Park has loads of mountain climbing 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 an extended sandy seaside that we walked hand in hand in solitude and it’s a excellent place for chicken 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 battle 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 price a go to. The construction has been restored with military barracks, jail, and gun powder rooms courting 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 super spot for a day trip. Wildlife fans can preserve an eye fixed out for deer, numerous chicken species, and fish within the park’s waters. Open year-round, Rockwood Park presents guided excursions and academic applications that cater to guests of all ages, making it a implausible vacation spot for nature pictures and birdwatching.

One of many park’s highlights is the 1.5 km Rockwood Park Path, excellent for a leisurely stroll to soak within the pure great thing about Saint John. Whether or not you’re trying 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 advocate having your personal automotive. We booked a automotive rental for our highway journey giving us a whole lot 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, positioned in southern New Brunswick, presents gorgeous wilderness areas, various wildlife, and scenic landscapes, making it a must-visit vacation spot.

In case 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 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 every time one searches for Canadian East Coast Sights. Day-after-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. Keep watch over 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 advocate 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 useful. 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 among Canada’s Premier Nationwide Parks Situated between Hopewell Rocks and Saint John, it’s only a 1-hour drive from town. Spend not less than a day exploring the gorgeous surroundings and mountain climbing 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 stunning waterfalls, bogs, beaver ponds and boardwalks. In case 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 additionally it is a gorgeous drive. Driving via the winding roads, we stopped frequently 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 may 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 in regards to the mountain climbing 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 advocate staying an evening right here, it may well simply be performed as a day journey to see it’s wonderful 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 positioned very near Saint John within the city of St. Martins.

In case you time it proper, you may expertise the very best 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 seaside spying eagles perched on the pier in search of 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 nearly disappear at excessive tide, however when the water goes out, you may stroll all the best way out to discover inside. These caves are large and spectacular.

The pink cliffs entice photographers from world wide to seize these iconic Instagram photographs. Don’t overlook 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 might solely see this scenic stretch of shoreline by mountain climbing the Fundy Footpath (68 km lengthy). However as we speak anybody can discover the coast by automotive with the choice to get out and hike a number of km to see seashores, gorges and waterfalls.

Hikes vary from 300 (984 ft) 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 pace restrict is simply 40 km (24mph) and there are a number of pull-offs to absorb the view.

23. Cut up Rock at Duck Pond Seaside

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 he or she steered Duck Pond Street, simply 40 minutes exterior 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 seaside the place you may unfold out a blanket to absorb the view.

24. Alma

Alma is a city positioned on the entrance to Fundy Nationwide Park and is an enthralling fishing village that’s price spending a while in. It has a whole lot of completely 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 may 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 surprise that boasts a number of the highest tides on this planet. This gorgeous bay is a haven for out of doors fans, providing actions like kayaking, whale watching, and mountain climbing. The bay’s wealthy biodiversity consists of whales, dolphins, and quite a lot of seabirds, making it a major 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 searching for 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 may eat on the patio or inside.

East Coast Bistro – East Coast Bistro is an upscale restaurant that’s excellent 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 important 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 excellent place to eat. Its upscale pub fare presents a whole lot of alternative with a rotating menu. Like Lemongrass, it has a patio the place you may 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 nook of Italy.

Port Metropolis Royal – Port Metropolis Royal has an inviting environment with uncovered brick and a comfortable leather-based sofa that invitations patrons to combine and mingle. Nice for a cocktail after your meal, or you may 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 may by no means go mistaken with a Hilton. Take a look at charges and Availability on TripAdvisor / Reserving.com
• Delta Resorts 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 a lot of issues to do in Saint John and the encircling space.

In case you add it to your itinerary, you received’t be upset.

In case 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 pleased to lend a serving to hand, provide recommendation and simply say hiya within the morning when you are out in your espresso. In case you journey to Saint John New Brunswick, you’ll make recollections to final a lifetime.