Located on the beautiful Bay of Fundy, Saint John is a vibrant port city in the province of New Brunswick. The third largest city in the Maritime provinces, it is home to around 70,000 people and is filled with exciting things to do. Known for the Reversing Rapids, The Saint John City Market, and the unique geography, Saint John offers a variety of things to keep you busy during your stay!
Saint John is the first incorporated city in Canada, established by royal charter on May 18, 1785. With a storied past and a bright future, our walkable city offers dichotomy of new and old. At the intersection of both tradition and innovation, guests to our city will see the beauty in the history and the vibrant spirit of the future. It is this delicate balance in the Saint John ecosystem that makes it one of the most special cities in Canada.
Things to do:
UPTOWN SAINT JOHN
It is in Uptown Saint John that guests can truly experience the lively nature of Canada’s East Coast. Walk through the Uptown core, taking in the unique Saint John architecture, which was rebuilt after the Great Fire of 1877 and is best descripted as Eclectic High Victorian. Be sure to stop the Saint John City Market. The building was built between 1874 and 1876, and narrowly escaped the great Saint John Fire. The building now contains several shops that features all locally owned business.
There is no shortage of historic sites and museums around the area. When you visit the oldest incorporated city in Canada, everywhere that you visit is historic. The Carleton Martello Tower was built for the War of 1812, and was updated in World War II to help defend the Saint John Harbour. You can now visit the National Historic Site while taking in the great view of the entire harbor. If you still want more, be sure to check out one of the many museums to learn about the history of the city, including the New Brunswick Museum and the John Fisher Memorial Museum. learning how Fort Howe was constructed to defend during the American Revolution in 1733. And if the information you learn really ignites you, you can go see Fort Howe, which is still standing today and offers not only a glimpse into history, but panoramic views of Saint John and the harbour.
If you like theatre, be sure to spend a night at the Imperial Theatre where you can take in the constructed plaster molding and beautiful ceiling in the building that The Globe and Mail described as “the most beautifully restored theatre in Canada”.
ACTIVITIES
Once you’ve finished exploring thing on-land, you can keep yourself busy with activities on the water!
Learn about the amazing phenomenon that is the Reversing Falls Rapids by viewing a short film in the theatre before stepping out on the steel and glass skywalk. Or view them in the unique way by a zipline. Watch the waves and whirlpools churn below your feet in this adrenaline-pumping course. For the adrenaline seekers you can follow this activity up with Timbertop Adventures at Dominion Park. Here both children and adults can make their way through some of the most epic obstacle courses as you conquer challenges high in the treetops, or souring past you as you zipline around the Saint John River.
You can take a jet boat ride and see the skyline at an entirely different vantage point. You will see the mixture of eclectic buildings ranging in age and stature, offering charm found nowhere else.
Whale watching is just a short drive away. For those looking for a bit more exercise and a serene experience? Saint John has that too. Explore some of Saint John’s great hiking trails including 11km of trails along the rugged Bay of Fundy coastline at Irving Nature Park. Here guests will see six different ecosystems with diversity of flora and fauna as well as boardwalks and lookout points.
Or you can head over to Rockwood Park within a few minutes from Uptown Saint John. One of Canada’s largest municipal parks, you can camp, swim, golf, or visit the zoo! You can borrow a kayak or hop on a pedal boat and feel like you have driven into the heart of cottage country. The quiet, the nature and the beauty will captivate and relax you.
FOOD & DRINKS
Uptown Saint John is home to over 80 bars and restaurants within a several block radius. No matter what you desire, Saint John has a restaurant for you. Whether you’re seeking Thai-Indian Fusion, craving some traditional French cuisine, or looking for local farm to table food, we have an experience you will never forget. If you’re looking for fresh seafood or Irish pubs and patios…the options are endless. The restaurants located in Uptown Saint John are some of the best the country has to offer.
Experience one of our many craft breweries or unique bars that offer hand-crafted cocktails. Be sure to visit our local Barcade, which offers old school arcade games with throwback music. Or experience one of our whiskey bars, which includes hundreds of whiskies to try. If you want excitement, try your hand at ax-throwing, while enjoying local music and spending quality time with friends. All in all – there’s something for everyone.