25 Finest Issues to do in Saint John, New Brunswick

Saint John New Brunswick simply may be essentially 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 establishing store downtown, and nature at your fingertips, Saint John has shortly was 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 relationship again to 1604. Found by Samuel de Champlain, it turned a serious hub resulting from its inviting harbour. Town has been having a renaissance this previous decade with Millenials opening companies and artists establishing store. If you’re planning an East Coast highway journey, you’ll want to put Saint John, New Brunswick in your checklist. Fundy Nationwide Park, situated in southern New Brunswick, is definitely accessible from Saint John and affords wilderness areas, wildlife, and scenic landscapes. These are the highest points of interest in Saint John and the perfect day journeys from the town.

Whereas the rugged coast of New Brunswick is a serious draw highway tripper, there are many issues to do in Saint John situated within the coronary heart of the town. We recommend spending no less than two nights to soak up the power 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 essentially 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 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 movement. It’s a cool factor to see the river flowing a technique after which smashing in opposition to 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 previous 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 outside stage. Pop right into a pub or restaurant and do some procuring. At night time, issues actually kick off with individuals bar hopping and outside leisure going down on the waterfront.

Cool reality: 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 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 points of interest just like the Saint John Metropolis Market. It is a excellent place 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 Basic Retailer

Barbour’s Basic Retailer is a really cool museum and store that dates again to the 1800s. It is a excellent place to start out your tour of Saint John. It was initially in-built Northern New Brunswick and delivered to Saint John in 29167.

The Saint John customer’s centre is situated inside the place you possibly can ebook 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 full of historical past from the early settlers and a captivating maritime previous.

It’s value taking one among its historic walks to study extra a couple of 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 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 the 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 Embrace:

• County Courtroom, King’s Sq.
• Metropolis Market
• The Previous Burial Floor at Sydney Road
• Stone Church on Carlton Road
• Loyalist Home on Union Road
• 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 a neighborhood 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 ft. 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 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 Road from Grannan, you’ll come to many galleries and workshops. Pop into the historic warehouses and also you’ll discover artists studios showcasing distinctive artworks.

11. Cape Spencer Lighthouse

Only a brief drive out of the 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 situated close to Bayshore Seaside, when you find yourself there, head right down to the water for just a little little bit of seashore time.

12. Mountain climbing Trails Irving Nature Park

If you’re in search of issues to do in Saint John outdoor, there are many issues to do close to the 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 seashore that we walked hand in hand in solitude and it’s a excellent place 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 the 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 had been essential forts for protecting 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 fans can preserve an eye fixed out for deer, numerous fowl species, and fish within the park’s waters. Open year-round, Rockwood Park affords guided excursions and academic packages that cater to guests of all ages, making it a improbable 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 chill out or embark on an out of doors 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 individual automobile. We booked a automobile rental for our highway journey giving us plenty 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 points of interest are anyplace from 10 minutes to 2-hours away.

Fundy Nationwide Park, situated in southern New Brunswick, affords beautiful wilderness areas, numerous 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 points of interest you can’t miss.

16. Hopewell Rocks

The Hopewell Rocks are most likely essentially the most well-known attraction on all of New Brunswick and with good purpose. Positioned 2 hours from Saint John, they make for a wonderful day journey from the town.

These flower pot rocks grace the covers of magazines and journey guides each time one searches for Canadian East Coast Points of interest. Daily 100 million tons of water drain from the Bay of Fundy revealing the ocean ground. 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 occasions 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 provide kayaking round Hopewell Rocks at excessive tide and that is extremely really useful. 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 among Canada’s Premier Nationwide Parks Positioned between Hopewell Rocks and Saint John, it’s only a 1-hour drive from the town. Spend no less than a day exploring the gorgeous surroundings and mountaineering trails of the park. Trails vary from brief 100 metre walks to eight km treks. Learn extra at: The Most Lovely Nationwide Parks in Canada

18. Waterfalls

It’s a fantastic drive, however please do get out of the automobile 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 as well ebook guided walks on the park headquarters to discover the Medicinal forests, seashore explorations and indigenous experiences.

19. Cape Enrage

Cape Enrage will not be solely a stunning scenic cease on the coast, however it’s also a fantastic drive. Driving via 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 an enormous sandbar the place you possibly can stroll out 200 metres alongside the ocean ground.

Just a bit farther alongside is the Cape Enrage lighthouse sitting atop a towering cliff. Deliver 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’d have undoubtedly equipped for a climb.

20. St. Martins Lined Bridges

St. Martins is a fantastic historic city that’s not 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 wonderful surroundings together with its 2 lined bridges. New Brunswick is thought for its historic lined 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.

For those who time it proper, you possibly can expertise the perfect 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 ground was uncovered and we walked alongside the rocky seashore 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 around the globe to seize these iconic Instagram pictures. 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 as well ebook 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 right this moment anybody can discover the coast by automobile with the choice to get out and hike just a few km to see seashores, gorges and waterfalls.

Hikes vary from 300 (984 ft) metres lengthy to 4.4 km. (2.73 miles) It is without doubt one of the most scenic drives in Canada with unimaginable 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 Seaside

We by no means would have identified of this spot had been it not for Ingrid at Bunkhaus Hostel. We had been looking for a spot to spend dawn and he or she advised Duck Pond Street, simply 40 minutes exterior the 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 seashore the place you possibly can unfold out a blanket to soak up 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 plenty 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 which you could seize one other a type 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 few of the highest tides on the planet. This beautiful bay is a haven for outside fans, 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 chief spot for wildlife remark.

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 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 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. Positioned 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 night time out. We strolled alongside Prince William Road to the inviting diner the place we ate wine and cheese whereas ready for our predominant course. I’ll undoubtedly be consuming there once more.

Saint John Ale Home – Positioned close to Lemongrass at Market Sq., Saint John Ale Home is one other excellent place to eat. Its upscale pub fare affords plenty 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 just a little nook of Italy.

Port Metropolis Royal – Port Metropolis Royal has an inviting ambiance 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 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 points of interest. 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. Buying 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.

For those who add it to your itinerary, you gained’t be upset.

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 completely happy to lend a serving to hand, provide recommendation and simply say howdy 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.