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Stroll through streets steeped in history.

The only city on the bay of fundy.

Walk narrow streets of well-preserved, 19th-century architecture; linger in the historic Saint John City Market and adjacent King’s Square; spend time relaxing in a café or microbrewery. There’s no other place in the Maritimes where the urban charms of a vibrant, historic city nestle up against the grand, natural allure of a world-famous bay. 

Canada’s oldest incorporated city begs to be explored on foot. Uptown Saint John (read: downtown) is a delightful mélange of narrow, steep streets leading to the bay, beautiful old architecture, and every reason to stop for a rest. These charming old buildings house excellent restaurants, funky cafés, creative galleries and shops, theatres, museums, and more. Make a point of stopping in the famous City Market (with a roof that resembles an inverted ship’s hull), and strolling Prince William Street, recognized as having the most continuous collection of Italianate and 2 nd Empire buildings in Canada.

Situated where the Saint John River meets the Bay of Fundy , the city of Saint John is a haven for nature lovers. Even within the city itself, you’ll fall in love with King’s Square, a charming urban park with a historic bandstand overlooking uptown. The Irving Nature Park is massive, with 11 km (7 mi.) of trails to explore. And Rockwood Park is one of North America’s largest urban parks. Of course, you’ll also want to make a stop at the famous Reversing Falls Rapids , where the tides of the Bay of Fundy actually force the water at the mouth of the Saint John River to reverse its flow.

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For some of New Brunswick's (and nature's) finest, steer for the Bay of Fundy's shores. Famous for the World's most dramatic tides, picturesque villages and rugged scenery, visitors won't want to miss a trip to the Fundy Isles or a leisurely tour of this coast. Saint John, a port city south of Fredericton and north by ferry from Nova Scotia, lies central to this stretch of water.

As the largest city in the province and swept with the scent of salt and sea, it's a sure bet visitors can find first-class seafood here along with other expected tourist amenities. Try the New Brunswick Museum for an introduction to the marine life at home in Fundy waters. Stop in at the Reversing Falls Visitors Centre to see how famously high tides send the waters of Saint John River swirling back in the opposite direction. Rent kayaks and do some coastal paddling to get a closer look at the phenomenon.

Suitably acquainted with New Brunswick's urban delights, head along the coast east to Fundy Bay National Park for a range of outdoor activity and photo-opportunities. Snap a few shots in St Martins, a photogenic village edged by pleasant beaches and dramatic cliffs, en route.

West from Saint John, whale-watchers and visitors after peaceful seascapes can have a stretch and stroll in historic St Andrews By-The-Sea. For more solitude, voyage on to the Fundy Isles during whale season and enjoy bird watching and a laid-back pace.

Saint John is 60 miles east of St Andrews By-The-Sea, just north across the Bay of Fundy from Digby, Nova Scotia. The Fundy Isles are west, just along the border with Maine.

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Saint John has long been a force to be reckoned with. Once a gritty port city, and the original economic engine of the province, it has since cleaned up its act. Its lively historic core is home to one of New Brunswick's top markets and there's a dynamic restaurant and pub scene worth exploring. Wander past beautifully preserved redbrick and sandstone 19th-century architecture, down narrow side streets that offer glimpses of the sea, or along the harbor where the mighty Saint John and Kennebecasis Rivers empty into the Bay of Fundy. Check out the city's unique museums and zip-line over the Reversing Falls. Sure, some of the surrounding natural beauty is diminished by pulp mill smokestacks and an oil refinery but Saint John will welcome you with open arms and knows how to show you a good time.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

New Brunswick Museum

The New Brunswick Museum has a varied and interesting collection. There's a surprisingly captivating section on industrial history with 1908 figurines by…

Reversing Rapids

The Bay of Fundy's phenomenal tides are a defining characteristic along this coast. Here, where the Saint John River nears this tidal bay, one of the…

Irving Nature Park

For those with a vehicle and who like nature, Irving Nature Park, 9km southwest of Saint John, has rugged, unspoiled coastal topography. It's also a…

Loyalist House

Dating from 1810, this Georgian-style Loyalist House was maintained with minimal changes for five generations until the family moved out in 1959. As one…

Saint John Jewish Historical Museum

With various artifacts and photographs, this modest museum traces the history and culture of Saint John's Jewish community, whose members included Louis B…

Loyalist Burial Ground

This pretty cemetery, with sturdy trees offering plenty of shade, a fountain and fading tombstones from as early as 1783, is just off Kings Sq, in a park…

Fire Fighters Museum

Across from Kings Square and housed in the 1840s volunteer fire station, this small museum has an engine from 1852 and another from the 1950s. Photos,…

Carleton Martello Tower

Built during the War of 1812 for defence purposes, this round stone fort is going through restoration for the foreseeable future. In the meantime, you can…

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24 Fantastic Things to do in Saint John New Brunswick

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: April 14, 2023

Saint John New Brunswick just might be the most underrated city in Canada. But during our two visits, we found plenty of things to do in Saint John, that will completely surprise you. With historic buildings converted to chic coffee shops and micro brewpubs, local artists setting up shop downtown, and nature at your fingertips, Saint John has quickly turned into one of Canada’s coolest cities to visit.

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Things to do in Saint John New Brunswick

Saint John, NB is one of Canada’s oldest cities dating back to 1604. Discovered by Samuel de Champlain, it became a major hub due to its inviting harbour. The city has been having a renaissance this past decade with Millenials opening businesses and artists setting up shop. If you are planning an East Coast road trip, be sure to put Saint John, New Brunswick on your list. These are the top attractions in Saint John and the best day trips from the city. 

While the rugged coast of New Brunswick is a major draw road tripper, there are plenty of things to do in Saint John located in the heart of the city. We suggest spending at least two nights to take in the energy of the town and to explore the nightlife.

1. Reversing Falls

As one local said to us, “The Reversing Falls of Saint John is probably the most overrated attraction in the city, but the science behind it is interesting.” And once you understand that the Bay of Fundy is so powerful that it reverses the flow of the Saint John River twice a day, it’s pretty cool.

We checked it out from two different viewpoints. I highly recommend going to the Reversing Falls Skywalk and Bridge to see it from above.

Saint John itself s located on the Bay of Fundy creating a unique phenomenon as the Bay of Fundy’s high tide collides with the Saint John River. As the tides rise, it overpowers the river reversing the flow. It’s a cool thing to see the river flowing one way and then smashing against the tide creating rapids and whirlpools.

2. Market Square

This cool street has kept its historic feel with eateries and bars inside building facades dating back to the 1800s. It has that old world charm with a hip modern vibe.

Stroll along North Market Wharf’s waterfront boardwalk where you’ll happen upon festivals and music events on the outdoor stage. Pop into a pub or restaurant and do some shopping. At night, things really kick off with people bar hopping and outdoor entertainment taking place at the waterfront.

Cool fact: The New Brunswick Museum is also located at Market Square. It’s Canada’s oldest continuous-running museum!

3. City Market

City Market is an indoor market in downtown Saint John and it is perfect to stroll through to buy some snacks for your road trip or for a picnic in the park. Grab some bread and cheese at the lovely and have a picnic in Kings Square. This is a great place to end your walk after browsing the Saint John Galleries.

4. Kings Square

We grabbed some fresh bread and cheese after browsing the galleries downtown and enjoyed the warm sunshine on a bench at King’s Square. Established in 1734, King’s Square was named after King George III. There are statues and monuments dedicated to great Canadians and war heroes. And it’s situated in a lovely setting with park benches and greenery surrounding the main pavilion, making it the perfect spot for an afternoon picnic.

5. Barbour’s General Store

Barbour’s General Store is a very cool museum and shop that dates back to the 1800s. This is a great place to start your tour of Saint John. It was originally built in Northern New Brunswick and brought to Saint John in 29167.

The Saint John visitor’s centre is located inside where you can book tours and pick up information on the area. And get information on touring downtown for the historic walks of Saint John.

6. Historic Walks of Saint John New Brunswick

Saint John is Canada oldest city and the only city located on the Bay of Fundy. It is filled with history from the early settlers and a fascinating maritime past.

It is worth taking one of its historic walks to learn more about a city that dates back to 1604 when Samuel de Champlain proclaimed the name St. John. It was another 25 years before a trading post was built here.

The area saw many historic events including the American Revolution where 14,000 Loyalists settled along the St. John River. Today you can trace that history along the Loyalist Trail, Victorian Stroll, and Prince William Walk.

Each self-guided walking tour takes about 1.5 hours and is an interesting way to explore the architecture and streets of Saint John.

7. Loyalist Trail

Walk the Loyalist Trail throughout the downtown core to follow in the footsteps of early settlers. There are signs throughout the city featuring plaques and buildings showcasing the history of the Americans who settled the area after the American Revolution. Here you’ll see the loyalist cemetery and picturesque gardens.

Stops on the Loyalist Trail Include:

• County Court, King’s Square
• City Market
• The Old Burial Ground at Sydney Street
• Stone Church on Carlton Street
• Loyalist House on Union Street
• Barbour’s General Store.

8. Historic Imperial Theatre

The Imperial Theatre is a gorgeous historic theatre with a connection to Hollywood. Louis B. Mayer (MGM Studios fame) grew up in Saint John and mentored a local businessman by the name of Walter Golding.

Golding opened the vaudeville theatre attracting the likes of Ethel Barrymore and Harry Houdini. It has recently been renovated and the historic decor will knock you off your feet. You can take a tour of the theatre, or see a show!

9. Grannan and Germain

This is the coolest corner in Saint John. Here you’ll find quirky shops, artist galleries, and plenty of choices for food, bars, and pubs. Grab dinner at Italian by Night that serves delicious authentic Italian food and then finish off on the comfy sofas of Port City Royal for cocktails.

10. Downtown Art Galleries

There are plenty of artists that have set up shop in Saint John and you can take a gallery tour to see them all. The people of Saint John are welcoming and will happily invite you in for a chat to talk about the artists and art of display.

If you continue walking to Princess Street from Grannan, you’ll come to many galleries and workshops. Pop into the historic warehouses and you’ll find artists studios showcasing unique works of art.

11. Cape Spencer Lighthouse

Just a short drive out of the city is the Cape Spencer Lighthouse. The lighthouse itself isn’t spectacular, but the view is phenomenal. High cliffs overlook the Bay of Fundy with the lighthouse standing proud on a steep hill reaching 200 feet above the bay.

12. Sunset at Fort Howe

The best place in Saint John for sunset is Fort Howe. Climb to the top of the hill and watch the sun go down over the city with the Trinity Church Steeple front and centre.

13. Carlton Martello Tower

Martello Tower dates back to the war of 1812. It is just one of 9 remaining Martello Towers in Canada that were important forts for keeping watch over the port. It is a national historic site and worth a visit. The structure has been restored with army barracks, jail, and gun powder rooms dating back to 1865.

It’s located near Bayshore Beach, when you are there, head down to the water for a little bit of beach time.

14. Hiking Trails Irving Nature Park

If you are looking for things to do in Saint John outdoors, there are plenty of things to do near the city. Irving Nature Park has plenty of hiking trails with lookouts to impressive views of The Bay of Fundy. With 6 different ecosystems, it’s an interesting hike. We stumbled upon a long sandy beach that we walked hand in hand in solitude and it is a great place for bird watching and watching the Bay of Fundy.

Saint John Day Trips

When travelling anywhere in Canada, we recommend having your own car. We booked a car rental for our road trip giving us a lot of flexibility. And with cheap parking across the street, we set out daily to explore the sights in and around the city. Most attractions are anywhere from 10 minutes to 2-hours away.

If you visit Saint John, New Brunswick, here are the main attractions you cannot miss.

15. Hopewell Rocks

The Hopewell Rocks are probably the most famous attraction on all of New Brunswick and with good reason. Located 2 hours from Saint John, they make for an excellent day trip from the city.

These flower pot rocks grace the covers of magazines and travel guides whenever one searches for Canadian East Coast Attractions. Every day 100 million tons of water drain from the Bay of Fundy revealing the ocean floor. This is your chance to witness the world’s highest tides. 

Visitors can walk for hours along the Bay of Fundy taking in the massive rock formation uncovered by the tides. Keep an eye on tidal times to plan your visit. You can walk around the rocks 3 hours before and 3 hours after low tide.

We recommend visiting around sunset. Once the sun goes down, most people leave and you have it all to yourselves. There are companies that offer kayaking around Hopewell Rocks at high tide and this is highly recommended.

• We kayaked the Three Sisters on the other side of the Bay of Fundy in Nova Scotia and it was a highlight of our trip!

16. Fundy National Park

Fundy National Park is one of Canada’s Premier National Parks Located between Hopewell Rocks and Saint John, it is just a 1-hour drive from the city. Spend at least a day exploring the beautiful scenery and hiking trails of the park. Trails range from short 100 metre walks to 8 km treks. Read more at: The Most Beautiful National Parks in Canada

17. Waterfalls

It’s a beautiful drive, but please do get out of the car to take in the lovely waterfalls, bogs, beaver ponds and boardwalks. If you decide to overnight in the park, there are several options from camping to cabin rentals, yurts and oTENTiks.

You can also book guided walks at the park headquarters to explore the Medicinal forests, beach explorations and indigenous experiences.

18. Cape Enrage

Cape Enrage is not only a gorgeous scenic stop on the coast, but it is also a beautiful drive. Driving through the winding roads, we stopped regularly to take in the views before coming out at a rocky beach filled with Inukshuks.

When the tide is out, the rock led to a giant sandbar where you can walk out 200 metres along the ocean floor.

Just a little farther along is the Cape Enrage lighthouse sitting atop a towering cliff. Bring a picnic to enjoy the view or have a coffee and snack at the restaurant.

There are also some adventures to be had including a zip line and 46-metre (150 foot) rappelling wall. We didn’t know about the rock climbing wall, or we would have definitely geared up for a climb.

19. St. Martins

St. Martins is a beautiful historic town that is not far from Saint John. While we recommend staying a night here, it can easily be done as a day trip to see it’s amazing scenery including its 2 covered bridges. New Brunswick is known for its historic covered bridges. You can find them scattered throughout the province. But there are two located very close to Saint John in the town of St. Martins.

If you time it right, you can experience the best of the Bay of Fundy at low tide. We went early in the morning to avoid crowds and traffic and explored at low tide. The town was quiet and fishing boats sat on dry land waiting for the tides to come in. The ocean floor was exposed and we walked along the rocky beach spying eagles perched on the pier looking for their prey. Be sure to take a walk on the trails near the lighthouse for better views of the river and bridges.

The Caves of St. Martin are also not to be missed! St. Martin Caves almost disappear at high tide, but when the water goes out, you can walk all the way out to explore inside. These caves are massive and impressive.

The red cliffs attract photographers from around the world to capture those iconic Instagram shots . Don’t forget to go around the corner to explore even more caves and cliffs.

And make sure come back later in the day to see the caves at high tide. You’ll be amazed to see how much water covers the ground that you walked on hours earlier. You can also book kayaking trips in St. Martins to go out and explore the Bay of Fundy.

20. Fundy Trail Parkway

St. Martins is the gateway to the Fundy Trail. The Fundy Trail Parkway is a 30km (19mile) drive along the coast of New Brunswick.

At one time, visitors could only see this scenic stretch of coastline by hiking the Fundy Footpath (68 km long). But today anyone can explore the coast by car with the option to get out and hike a few km to see beaches, gorges and waterfalls.

Hikes range from 300 (984 feet) metres long to 4.4 km. (2.73 miles) It is one of the most scenic drives in Canada with incredible views of massive sea cliffs. What we love about this drive is that the speed limit is only 40 km (24mph) and there are several pull-offs to take in the view.

21. Split Rock at Duck Pond Beach

We never would have known of this spot were it not for Ingrid at Bunkhaus Hostel. We were searching for a place to spend sunrise and she suggested Duck Pond Road, just 40 minutes outside the city.

While crowds gathered at the cliffs of St. Martins, we had the view of the Cliffs of Simonds all to ourselves. They are just as impressive as St. Martins with red cliffs stretching out to the sea. The cliffs are located on a beach where you can spread out a blanket to take in the view.

Alma is a town located at the entrance to Fundy National Park and is a charming fishing village that is worth spending some time in. It has a lot of different options for dining and a few places for accommodation.

There are gift shops and bookstores reminding me a bit of the small towns located along Route 66. In the summertime, this place is buzzing. It is here that you can capture another one of those iconic shots of fishing boats tied to the pier sitting on dry land waiting for the tide to come in.

Where to Eat in Saint John

Lemongrass/Peppers – Lemongrass had authentic Thai Cuisine that was very satisfying. Located at Market Square you can eat on the patio or inside.

East Coast Bistro – East Coast Bistro is an upscale restaurant that is perfect for a romantic night out. We strolled along Prince William Street to the inviting diner where we ate wine and cheese while waiting for our main course. I’ll definitely be eating there again.

Saint John Ale House – Located near Lemongrass at Market Square, Saint John Ale House is another great place to eat. Its upscale pub fare offers a lot of choice with a rotating menu. Like Lemongrass, it has a patio where you can take in the action on the boardwalk.

Italian by Night – This was our favourite meal in Saint John. The authentic Italian cuisines made us feel as if we had stepped into a little corner of Italy.

Port City Royal – Port City Royal has an inviting atmosphere with exposed brick and a comfy leather couch that invites patrons to mix and mingle. Great for a cocktail after your meal, or you can order food here too.

Where to Stay in Saint John

• The Hilton Saint John  is a good central location on the water that is within walking distance to all the downtown attractions. Plus, you can never go wrong with a Hilton.  Check out rates and Availability on  TripAdvisor  /  Booking.com
• Delta Hotels by Marriott  is another great location downtown. Just 25 minutes from Saint John Airport in the heart of downtown. The indoor pedway system connects it to  Saint John City Market, Brunswick Square Shopping Complex, City Hall, the Canada Games Aquatic Centre, Harbour Station.  View it on  TripAdvisor  /  Booking.com

Saint John, New Brunswick will definitely surprise you. Many people overlook travel to New Brunswick when visiting the East Coast, but there are many things to do in Saint John and the surrounding area.

If you add it to your itinerary, you won’t be disappointed.

If you ask someone from Saint John what makes it so special, the unanimous answer will be the people. And we agree! The people of Saint John are the friendliest in Canada and are happy to lend a helping hand, offer advice and just say hello in the morning while you are out for your coffee. If you travel to Saint John New Brunswick, you’ll make memories to last a lifetime.

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4 thoughts on “24 Fantastic Things to do in Saint John New Brunswick”

St. Johns looks like a great town! Thank you for the informative article.

I’m glad you enjoyed my hometown. 🙂 Saint John was a very industrial, blue collar city for a long time but I feel like the uptown especially has a hip new energy emerging. I keep dreaming of businesses I could open so that I could move back home and be part of the resurgence. While the city itself still has lots of gritty edges, it’s near some of the most beautiful river valleys. Hope you enjoyed your return trip.

Hi Melissa, Thanks for the comment. We’re heading back to Saint John tomorrow and I am really excited. The city does have a hip new energy. Ingrid of Bunkhaus Hostel really inspired us when we were there last and we look forward to experiencing it during the holiday season.

Highly informative article. This site has lots of information and it is useful for us. Thanks for sharing your views. – dentist in hartford ct

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16 Best Things To Do In Saint John, New Brunswick | 2023 Guide

Located in the Bay of Fundy in New Brunswick, Canada,  Saint John  is a charming city with plenty of things to do. With a  thriving arts and culture scene,  great  outdoor scenery,  and a bustling downtown area, Saint John offers something for every type of traveler.

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It is one of the oldest cities in Canada and is home to over 70,000 people. The city of Saint John was founded by French settlers in 1604 and is  Canada’s oldest ‘incorporated city.’  It still retains many features from that time, such as its old architecture and historic sites like Fort Howe, which have been preserved for all to enjoy. 

We were really impressed by Saint John  during our recent road trip through New Brunswick. The city had a  really cool and hip vibe,  and the architecture in Downtown Saint John in particular, reminded us a bit of the West Village in New York. With lots of patios, shops, and restaurants, the area was alive during our visit in July. After spending a few days in the city, we found lots of things to do in Saint John to keep us entertained. 

No matter what your interests are, Saint John has something for you to enjoy. We hope this travel guide will help you plan your trip and make the most of your time in this wonderful city. With so many attractions and possibilities for day trips in the surrounding area, like the  Fundy Trail Parkway , Saint John can make for a fantastic home base.

Traveling Soon?  Here is a list of our favourite travel providers and accessories to help get you ready for your upcoming trip! Book Your Accommodation HERE Search for Great Tours HERE Get a Car Rental HERE Buy Travel Insurance HERE See our Favourite Camera Bag HERE Grab a Reusable Water Bottle HERE or a Filtration Straw HERE Order an eSim HERE

How To Get To Saint John, New Brunswick

Saint John is located on Route 1, also known as the Trans-Canada Highway. It is  easily accessible by car, plane, ferry, bus or train.

Saint John Airport (YSJ)  is located just 15 minutes (by car) from downtown and offers regular flights from Canadian cities, including Toronto and Halifax, but it does not offer direct flights.

Greater Moncton International Airport (YQM) , located in Moncton, 1 hour and 40 mins away from the town (by car), is an excellent option as, although further away, it does offer direct flights from cities such as Toronto, Montreal, and Ottawa.

Halifax Stanfield International Airport  (YHZ), located in Nova Scotia, is a major hub for both domestic and international flights in Atlantic Canada. The airport offers service to many major cities across Canada, as well as direct flights to several European and US destinations. 

The  Saint John Cruise Terminal  welcomes  cruise ships  through the summer months and offers easy access to downtown. The port is also a popular stop for ferries crossing the Bay of Fundy, including the   CAT ferry ,  which runs between Saint John and Maine, USA.

By Train Or Bus

VIA Rail  operates trains to Saint John from Montreal and Halifax. The train station, located downtown, offers easy access to all the city has to offer.

Greyhound Canada  operates regular buses from cities including Montreal and Halifax, with the bus station being located on the north side of downtown.

Our Tip:  If you plan to use public transportation while in Saint John, consider getting a “Saint John Transit” bus pass. It’s a great way to save on transportation while in the city and helps reduce your carbon footprint while traveling.

How To Get Around Saint John

Saint John’s public transportation system is operated by Saint John Transit and includes regular bus routes throughout the city. 

On foot: Walking is an easy, free, environmentally friendly way to traverse the city, particularly downtown, where most attractions are within walking distance.

By bike: Saint John also offers bike rentals through Bike Saint John , with various pick-up and drop-off locations throughout the city. This is a great option for those who want to explore more of the city on their own time and at their own pace while keeping with the environmentally friendly approach.

By Car: Saint John also offers various car rental options for those who prefer to have their own mode of transportation.

If you are only in the city for a few days and want to make sure you cover the top attractions, check out the city tour bus for a convenient, fun, and informative way to see the best things to do in Saint John in a day.

Best Time To Visit Saint John

Saint John is a vibrant city all year round; however, the best time to visit depends on your interests and preferences.

The Summer months (June-August)  offer warm weather with an average high of 22 °C (72 °F), perfect for outdoor activities such as exploring the stunning scenery along the Saint John River, the Bay of Fundy, or hiking in nearby Fundy National Park. This is also peak tourist season, with attractions and accommodations potentially being busier and slightly more expensive.

The Fall months  (September-November) offer pleasant weather, with an average high of 13 °C (55°F), and the changing leaves make for  beautiful hiking trails and scenery.

NOTE:  The Saint John Jazz & Blues Festival, one of the city’s biggest events, is held in late summer/early fall. It’s a great reason to plan a visit to New Brunswick during this time.

Winter (December-March)  offers the opportunity to enjoy  winter sports , such as cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, while still being able to explore indoor attractions such as the New Brunswick Museum or Imperial Theatre. 

Spring (April-May)  is a great time for  outdoor activities,  with temperatures beginning to warm up and flowers blooming throughout the city. It is also a less busy time for tourists, with potential deals on accommodations and attractions.

No matter what time of year you visit Saint John, there will always be plenty to do and see in this vibrant and charming city.

Best Things To Do In Saint John, New Brunswick

Whether you are visiting for a weekend or a week, Saint John offers plenty of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages. Here are our Saint John’s must-see attractions:

1. Explore Area 506 Container Village

Area 506  is a creative haven providing the perfect environment for locals and tourists to explore new possibilities. This eclectic space gives locals and visitors a great opportunity to support dozens of vendors and artisans while appreciating varying art styles.

The shipping containers house locally owned businesses on Saint John’s waterfront, making this unique spot an urban shopping destination. The shops and food trucks provide visitors with delicious food options in addition to great live music or events.

Every year, this waterfront container village hosts the  AREA 506 Festival  over the New Brunswick Day long weekend. During this festival, you’ll get to browse a huge, diverse group of vendors, craftspeople, and local artists. Every day during the festival, there are live music performances by several different acts.

Our Tip : Be sure to check out the graffiti wall showcasing some of Saint John’s talented artists. It’s the perfect spot for that Insta-worthy selfie to commemorate your Saint John visit. 

2. Immerse Yourself In History At The Loyalist House

Loyalist House is a  National Historic Site  that offers an insight into the lives of American Loyalists who settled in Saint John during and after The Revolution.

It features period furnishings with exhibits about local history, giving you new knowledge on this topic while also shedding light onto old stories from generations past.

If you are interested in learning more about American history or Canadian architecture, then be sure to add Loyalist House to your list of must-see attractions.

3. Visit King’s Square

King’s Square is a  hub for Saint John’s arts, culture, and heritage . From the Imperial Theatre, which hosts various performances throughout the year, to the Farmers’ Market, where local vendors sell fresh produce and handmade goods, there is always something happening in Kings Square.

The square also features historical buildings such as City Hall and Trinity Church, making it a must-see destination for history buffs.

Our Tip: Check out the rotating exhibitions at The New Brunswick Museum , located in Kings Square.

4. Stroll The Waterfront Boardwalk

Saint John’s boardwalk boasts stunning  views of the Saint John River  and harbour area. It offers glimpses into New Brunswick’s natural resources and rich history dating back centuries before Confederation.

The boardwalk, which was in the middle of a major renovation project during our visit, features various  restaurants, shops, art galleries,  and outdoor fitness equipment for those who want to exercise while enjoying the beautiful views of the harbour and its colourful fishing boats. It’s going to be a huge focus point and attraction in the city, so be sure to spend some time there during your visit. 

5. Shop At Saint John City Market

The   Saint John City Market  is the oldest continuous market in Canada, dating back to 1830. Located downtown Saint John, this vibrant market offers a variety of locally sourced products, including produce, crafts, and prepared foods.

You don’t want to miss out on delicious aromas, including fresh products such as meats, bread, and cheeses. It’s a great place to pick up some souvenirs or grab a bite to eat and sample some local flavours. 

Our Tip: Be sure to visit Saint John City Market on a Saturday for the bustling atmosphere and widest selection of vendors

6. Join A Moosehead Brewery Tour

For those 21 and over, the   Moosehead Brewery Tour  offers a behind-the-scenes look at how one of Canada’s largest independent breweries operates to create award-winning beers. The tour also includes beer tastings, making it the perfect stop for craft beer lovers.

7. Go On A Prince William Walk

Located in the heart of Saint John, New Brunswick, the  Prince William Walkway  offers visitors gorgeous views of the city and the harbour area. This  4km trail  winds through various parks and historic sites, including Rockwood Park, Irving Nature Park, Fort Howe National Historic Site, and Carleton Martello Tower National Historic Site.

Prince William Street  itself is a popular spot for photographers looking to capture the beautiful Saint John skyline. Be sure to bring your camera along on this walk.

8. Go Local At Queen Square Farmers Market

Queen Square Farmers Market  is a seasonal market, open May through October, offering locally grown produce and handmade goods. Located in the heart of uptown Saint John, it is a popular spot for locals and visitors to grab fresh groceries or browse unique crafts and artwork.

9. Shop At Market Square

If you’re looking for a unique shopping experience, you’ll love exploring the local boutiques in   Market Square .  You’ll find clothing shops, beautiful home decor, and handmade jewelry. The restaurants offer a variety of cuisines, from Belgian waffles to Mexican food.

And if you’re looking for a place to relax with a cup of tea or a beer, there are plenty of options to choose from. Whether you’re looking to do some serious shopping or just window shopping, you’ll find what you’re looking for in this vibrant community.

Pro Tip: Market Square hosts various events throughout the year, including live music and holiday markets, so be sure to check their event calendar for any upcoming happenings.

10. Irving Nature Park

Located just outside of Saint John, on the edge of the Bay of Fundy, Irving Nature Park offers  600 acres of woods  with eight walking trails and recreation areas .  The park offers breathtaking views of the ocean and chances to see wildlife like seals, whales, and bald eagles. 

Take a stroll along the boardwalk, learn about the park’s six different ecosystems, and get a 360° view of the rugged Bay of Fundy coastline from Lookout Tower. 

The park features plenty of facilities, including accessible washrooms, barbecues, a children’s forest with two cedar hedge mazes and a playground. Whether you’re looking for a place to relax or an adventure, Irving Nature Park is sure to have something for everyone.

It is a natural beauty and a must-see destination for anyone who wants to get outdoors and explore Saint John beyond the city centre. 

Our Tip: If you are short on time but still want to enjoy the beauty of Irving Nature Park, you can drive the main trail around the park in your vehicle. Park up at a number of lookouts, enjoy the view and continue on. 

11. Reversing Falls

Reversing Falls  is one of Saint John’s most popular attractions, offering the unique experience of seeing nature fight against the tides of the Bay of Fundy.

These series of rapids and tiny waterfalls can be viewed from the Reversing Falls Bridge or, even better, on a jet boat tour where you can experience them up close.

The tides in the Bay of Fundy are some of the strongest in the world, and twice a day, they change direction. As the tide comes in, it pushes against the Saint John River flow and creates powerful rapids known as Reversing Falls. 

Don’t expect a massive waterfall but a series of interesting rapids. The view from above is definitely worth it!

Our tip: Plan your visit during high tide for the most impressive reversing falls rapids experience. Check tide times before visiting to ensure you don’t miss out on this natural phenomenon.

12. Fort Howe National Historic Site

Fort Howe is a designated national historic site located in the city of Saint John, New Brunswick. During the American Revolution, the British built the fort in 1777 to defend the city from the American rebels.

Today, the fort is open to the public and is a popular tourist destination. Visitors can explore the fort’s many buildings, including the barracks, powder magazine, and guardhouse. The fort also has a museum that displays artifacts from its long history.

Fort Howe is an important part of New Brunswick Saint John’s history and is a must-see for anyone visiting the city.

13. Bay Shore Beach

Bay Shore Beach  is a beautiful beach located just outside of Saint John, offering stunning views of the Bay of Fundy and a picturesque long sandy beach.

The beach is popular for swimming in the summer months and exploring the tidal pools at low tide. It’s also a popular spot for birdwatching, with various species often spotted along the shoreline.

Our Tip: Be sure to look out for migratory and marine birds during the fall months, as they often stop at Bay Shore Beach during their long journey.

14. Take a Self-Guided Historic Walking Tour

History buffs have their choice of walking tours that take you through the history and landmarks unique to this city. The Loyalist Trail and the Victorian Stroll are packed with interesting history and fascinating stories about Saint John’s early settlers, plus they are totally free! Visitor Information Centres all around Saint John have Historic Walking Tours brochures, or you can  download an electronic version .

15. Browse the Art Galleries on Princess Street

Take a stroll down Princess street and pop into the many shops and art galleries. You’ll also come across bookstores, cafes, and more brewpubs as you get closer to the Saint John River, where Princess Street leads to AREA 506 Waterfront Container Village.  The Saint John Theatre Company  is also located on Princess Street, where you can catch a variety of live music performances and plays.

Housed in a historic building dating back to 1878,  Cobalt Art Gallery  features a variety of paintings, drawings, prints, and sculptures created by Canadian and international artists. The collection holdings emphasize art of the Atlantic region and Inuit sculpture.

Trinity Galleries  features two levels of beautiful gallery space that display works by artists from the Maritimes, New York City, and Rome. Subjects include landscapes, cityscapes, coastlines, wildlife, and abstract and surrealism.

16. Visit Dominion Park Beach

Located on Saint John’s west side, Dominion Park provides locals and visitors with convenient access to the river. You can swim, explore the hiking trails, go rock climbing, and sign up for a zip line tour with  Timbertop , an aerial adventure park located in Dominion.

Dominion Park is a year-round destination, and a popular spot for ice fishing during the winter months. While visitors have access to the water throughout the year, lifeguards are only on duty during the summer months.

READ NEXT: Best Things to do in New Brunswick

Best Restaurants In Saint John

There are no shortages of delicious dining options in Saint John. Whether you simply want a quick bite to eat or a more upscale dining experience, here are some top-rated restaurants in the city. 

Slocum And Ferris

Slocum and Ferris  is a fast-casual eatery located in the Saint John City Market. Founded in 1895, it is one of the oldest establishments in the market and has become a popular destination for breakfast, lunch, and brunch.

The  menu is eclectic, taking inspiration from street vendors and food trucks  around the world. In addition to a variety of made-from-scratch baked goods, the menu features breakfast items, sandwiches, soups, and salads.

The Saturday morning brunch menu is especially popular, with dishes such as mixed berry French toast and traditional breakfast items. Slocum and Ferris is a convenient stop for market-goers looking for a quick meal or snack.

Garden Grove Cafe

Garden Grove Café  is a local favourite for many reasons. They pride themselves on using only the f reshest, locally sourced ingredients  in all of their dishes. But what really sets them apart is their commitment to the community they serve.

Whether you’re looking for a delicious meal or just a friendly face, you’ll always find it at Garden Grove Café.

Our Tip: Be sure to visit on wine Wednesday, as wine is half-price.

Italian By Night

This urban Italian restaurant offers a unique dining experience in the heart of Saint John’s uptown.   Italian by Night  menu features classic Italian dishes with a modern twist and an extensive wine list.

Their outdoor patio is a popular spot in the warmer months, and their cozy atmosphere makes it the perfect destination for date nights or special occasions.

Thandi Restaurant

Look no further than  Thandi’s  if you’re looking for a delicious, flavourful meal that will tantalize your taste buds. This family-owned restaurant offers a fusion of East and West flavours that is sure to please even the most discerning palate.

The menu features a mouth-watering selection of steaks, seafood, chicken, and authentic Indian curries, all of which are prepared with the utmost care and attention to detail.

And because the owners have extensive experience in Indian cooking, they’re able to offer “made-to-order” dishes that allow customers to choose exactly how they want their curry prepared.

VEGolution  is a fun mixture of culinary and comfort food done vegetarian style. A variety of fresh, to-go items is available in their TOGO fridge for those who cannot dine in or are looking for a quick and healthy meal or snack. 

Whether you’re a vegan, vegetarian, or just looking to incorporate more vegetables into your diet, VEGolution is the perfect spot for you. 

Our Tip: Don’t miss their homemade desserts. They are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.

Where To Stay In Saint John

Saint John has a variety of accommodation options, from cozy bed and breakfasts to luxurious hotels. Here are some top-rated places to stay.

Delta Saint John By Mariott

During our visit to Saint John, we stayed at the   Delta Saint John by Marriott . Located on the waterfront, this hotel offers stunning views and comfortable rooms with modern amenities. Its location in the heart of uptown offers convenient walking access to shopping, dining, and attractions. The hotel also features an indoor pool, fitness centre, and on-site dining at The Sushi Bar.

We loved the hotel’s convenient location in the heart of the city and appreciated Marriott’s continuous commitment to sustainable initiatives across their properties.

Other Recommended Hotels In Saint John

Château saint john hotel & suites.

Château Saint John – Hotel & Suites  is the perfect choice for travelers who are looking for a luxurious and convenient stay in Saint John, New Brunswick. The hotel is located downtown, across from Harbour Station arena, and close to popular attractions like the City Market.

They offer elegant accommodations that combine the best of yesterday and today with unique décor that pays tribute to Saint John’s long and storied history as the oldest incorporated city in Canada.

The guests can enjoy modern amenities like free WiFi and a fitness center, as well as top-notch service from the friendly and helpful staff. Whether you’re in town for business or pleasure, they are confident that you will have an enjoyable and memorable stay at ChâteauSaint John.

Mahogany Manor

Looking for a cozy and intimate bed and breakfast experience? Look no further than  Mahogany Manor . This  Victorian home , built in 1882, offers a relaxing atmosphere with its beautiful gardens and elegant décor.

Each room is unique and features antique furnishings, private bathrooms, air conditioning, and free WiFi access.

A delicious homemade breakfast is served every morning, with options to accommodate dietary restrictions upon request. The friendly and knowledgeable hosts are happy to offer recommendations for things to do and see in the city as well.

Earle of Leinster B&B

Locally owned and operated, this 11-room B&B is conveniently located within a short walking distance from King Square and several other attractions in downtown Saint John.  The Leinster B&B  is housed in a historic home – one of the first built after the great fire of 1877.

Guests can choose Victorian style, country style, or contemporary accommodations, each with private bathrooms. Apartment-style accommodations are also available, featuring fully-equipped kitchens.

Hot breakfasts are served daily in a cozy dining space and can be made gluten-free and vegan. 

Have you ever been to Saint John? What other things to do in Saint John would you add to this list as suggestions for first-time visitors? 

About the author.

Oksana & Max St John

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• 1.1 History
• 1.2 Climate
• 2.3.1 Airport
• 2.3.2 Airlines
• 2.4 By train
• 2.5 By boat
• 3.1 By public transit
• 3.2 By taxi
• 12 Stay safe

Saint John is the second-largest city in the Canadian province of New Brunswick , with 68,000 residents (2016). It is in the south of the province on the Bay of Fundy

Understand [ edit ]

Saint John is a city whose population is composed almost entirely of the descendants of Irish immigrants and British loyalists. Canada 's oldest incorporated city, Saint John's metro population is approximately 125,000 and it routinely plays host to cruise ships and individual tourists from all over North America. (To avoid confusion with St. John's (Newfoundland), Saint John is never spelled St. John - locals will be very quick to point this out.)

Until 2003, Saint John had a long history of shipbuilding at the city's dry dock, which is one of the largest in the world. Saint John now has fast growing research and information technology sectors, and it has a growing sector of tourism, with over 1.5 million visitors a year and 200,000 cruise ship visitors a year, creating a renaissance in the city's historic downtown (locally known as uptown).

History [ edit ]

Mi'kmaq and Maliseet Aboriginal peoples lived in the region for thousands of years, calling the river Wolastoq, and what is now the Saint John region, Menahkwesh, before European settlement.

French explorer Samuel de Champlain landed at Saint John Harbour on June 24, 1604 (the feast of St. John the Baptist). This is where the Saint John River gets its name. After over a century of ownership disputes over the land surrounding Saint John between the French and English, the English deported the French colonists in 1755 and constructed Fort Howe above the harbour in 1779.

Saint John, as a major settlement, was established by Loyalist refugees of the American Revolution when two fleets of vessels from Massachusetts, one in the spring and a second in the fall, arrived in the harbour. These refugees wished to remain living under Great Britain and were forced to leave their U.S. homes during the American Revolution.

In 1785, the City of Saint John was formed from the union of Parrtown and Carleton. Over the next century, waves of Irish immigration, namely during the Great Famine via Partridge Island, would fundamentally change the city's demographics and culture.

Climate [ edit ]

Temperatures in Saint John vary by season. In the summertime temperatures can reach a high of 22°C, and in the wintertime they can dip to -15°C. Rain is common in the spring and autumn, but it usually doesn't rain much in the summer. Fog is not uncommon during the summer months. There is the occasional heavy snowfall in the winter; however, snow is usually more abundant the more north you travel away from the Bay of Fundy.

Get in [ edit ]

By car [ edit ].

Driving to Saint John is usually not a hassle, unlike in many other cities. However, traffic has been steadily increasing. And for travellers driving from Fredericton to Saint John on Highway 7, care is required because of the risk of moose collisions at certain times of year and certain times of the day.

Saint John is 107 km (66 miles) from the Calais / St. Stephen border between Canada and the United States of America . Driving distances from major cities are 496 km (310 miles) from Portland , Maine , 940 km (588 miles) from Montreal , Québec and 424 km (265 miles) from Halifax , Nova Scotia .

If you're travelling from southern Nova Scotia, your best bet is to take Bay Ferries from Digby . There are three crossings daily from mid-June to mid-October, these take 2½ hours on average. During the rest of the year there is at least one crossing daily and they usually take 2 hr 45 min. $37 per adult passenger and $119 for a car (April 2017). Book online, and check on at the terminal to get your boarding pass when you arrive. Restaurant, cafeteria and wifi on board.

By bus [ edit ]

• Between Saint John and Moncton including a stop in Sussex . Travel time to Saint John from Moncton is 2.25 hours.
• Between Saint John and Fredericton including a stop in Fredericton Airport. Travel time to Saint John from Fredericton is 1.25 hours.
• From Charlottetown (5.25 hours) with transfers in Amherst and Moncton
• From Edmundston (5 hours) with a transfer in Fredericton
• From Bathurst (7.5 hours), Campbellton (8.75 hours), Halifax (6.25 hours), and Miramichi (6.5 hours) with a transfer in Moncton
• From Antigonish (7 hours), North Sydney (9.75 hours), Sydney (10.5 hours) with transfers in Truro and Moncton

By plane [ edit ]

Airport [ edit ], airlines [ edit ], by train [ edit ].

There is no passenger train to Saint John. Via Rail serves Moncton , from which a two-hour bus ride reaches Saint John.

By boat [ edit ]

Saint John also boasts a booming cruise ship industry and has cruise ships enter the city's dock on a regular basis.

Saint John's Market Wharf also provides a convenient if unserviced space within the harbour for pleasure boaters, making it easy for power or sail vessels coming in from the Fundy to berth and enjoy the Uptown shopping or dining. Longer term moorage is not available in the harbour, although it is available several miles up the Saint John River. There are no fuel or marine services at the wharf, and the wharf is used by local fishing boats and by pleasure craft.

Saint John can also be reached by ferry coming from Digby, NS. As of 2024, it is operated by Bay Ferries Ltd . Check the schedule because crossings are dependant on weather and technical conditions and subjected to change. Crossing time in peak season is approximately 2 hours 15 minutes and 2 hours and 30 minutes during off season. Parking is available at the Saint John and Digby ferry terminals.

Get around [ edit ]

By public transit [ edit ]

By taxi [ edit ].

There are several companies available in Saint John for this service.

• Coastal Taxi , ☏ +1 506 635-1144 .  
• Diamond Taxi , ☏ +1 506 648-8888 .  
• Royal Taxi: , ☏ +1 506 652-5050 .  
• Simonds Taxi ( often found parked outside McAllister Mall ), ☏ +1 506 696-8294 .  
• Sunrise Taxi , ☏ +1 506 638-8888 .  
• University Cab , ☏ +1 506 631-1111 . Offers student discounts to UNBSJ  

Most companies accept debit and credit cards in their cabs, but be sure to ask for this service as it may not be available in all cars. Approximate prices for taxi services in Saint John, based on one person in the taxi and no stops are as follows:

• East Side to Uptown or North End: $7-10 (and vice versa)
• East Side to West Side: $12-15
• North to South End: $8-10

If you are staying outside of the city in Rothesay or the surrounding area, expect to pay above $15. Cab rides to the airport can run in the $20 range. For people who need to make a short stop to pick up cash or something quick, most drivers will charge you an extra buck. But make sure you ask, because they are supposed to charge you for another stop. Some will do this right off the bat if you don't ask. Also, most cab drivers are more than happy to have your repeat business, so if there is someone you like ask for their car number and next time you call you can ask for the same person.

Within the Uptown it is possible to travel on foot between the City Market, Brunswick Square Mall, Market Square, the Canada Games Aquatic Centre, Mercantile Centre and Harbour Station via underground and pedway connections without venturing outside (the "Inside Connection"). This is very useful during the winter. During the rest of the year, Uptown Saint John also offers a very pleasant and fairly accessible walking experience, with clear, well-maintained sidewalks and crosswalks, and fairly straightforward navigation. (Unlike many older cities, Saint John's Uptown is laid out in a simple grid design.)

There are eleven car rental dealerships in the city including an Avis Rent-A-Car at the Saint John Airport.

See [ edit ]

• Fort Howe ( Located in the city's North End ). A panoramic view of the city and harbour, and a historic attraction.  

• Irving Nature Park ( on the West Side ). A variety of walking trails lead travellers through woods, guide them into marshes, and bring them to beaches and lookout points on the sea. Free .  
• King Square ( in the heart of the Uptown ). Gardens, monuments, and the trademark bandstand and fountain at its centre. Adjacent to King Square is the Loyalist City Burial Ground, whose cobblestone paths lead past graves over two centuries old.  

Do [ edit ]

• The Imperial Theatre , 12 King Square South , ☏ +1 506 674-4100 . M-F noon-5PM . A historic theatre features everything from plays to rock concerts. Does tours in the summer and on cruise ship days. ( updated Jan 2023 )
• Harbour Passage . Harbour Passage is a red paved walking path that runs from the Boardwalk Uptown to the Old Museum on Douglas Avenue. It's a great walking, biking or skating path in the summertime. While it is well-lit at night, the occasional mugging has been known to happen. Stay in groups at night and you will be fine. Also a great way to make it from Uptown to the North End of the city. Very close to the Holiday Inn Express.  

Buy [ edit ]

The City Market uptown is the oldest operating farmers market in Canada, with fruits, vegetables, fresh seafood, Java Moose (a local brewed coffee house with good take-home coffee beans), and on Saturdays, various vendors with foods from around the world. Uptown is also home to hundreds of independent shops with a wide variety of food and merchandise. A stroll down King Street finds stores selling local arts and crafts, while across the street the Brunswick Square Mall offers commercial stores (clothes, shoes, cards, books, music, Laura Secord chocolates). On Germain and Canterbury Streets (both off King Street) independent merchants offer used books, records and international cuisine.

There are eight local shopping centres of varying quality; a few are mere strip malls or have fallen into the "dead mall" pattern of discount stores, vacancies or non-retail uses such as telephone call centres. The largest local malls are McAllister Place and East Point Shopping Centre in the east end, or Brunswick Square and Market Square uptown. The city's east side is also home to numerous big-box stores, mostly chains ranging from clothing to hardware to electronics.

Eat [ edit ]

A variety of locations for dining in are available in Market Square. For the more thrifty traveller an eatery is located in Brunswick Square, or try the side aisles of the City Market for fresh salads, sandwiches, and other local fare.

• Billy's Seafood ( near the Front gates to the City market ). Seafood of all kinds is what you can find at Billy's. Locally owned and operated by Billy. Offers up great seafood dishes with a reasonable price. Look to spend $15-20 per person for supper .  
• Thandi's , 33 Canterbury Street , ☏ +1 506-648-2377 . Thandi's is great for Thai and Indian cuisine. It's a little on the pricier side so expect to spend $25-30 per person for a well-rounded meal (including drinks).  
• Big Tide Brewing Co. , 53 Princess Street . Nice little brew pub with some great microbrewed beer. Everything from IPAs to Hemp Ale. Big Tide offers up some pub favourites. Not too expensive. Expect to spend around $30-40 per couple. Great mixed drinks too! $10-15 .  
• Lemongrass/Pepper's Pub , Market Square . The Lemongrass Restaurant is a great Thai place offering upscale food at a reasonable price. Very good pad thai and "money bags" (appetizer). Pepper's Pub, which is located in the same venue offers up unique pub fare for just about anybody. Thursdays is wing night, offering 1lb of wings for $4. Great sauce selections. Service can be a little slow on this night, but only because the place is jam packed with regulars who flock to Pepper's. They often host "IPN- Indie Pop Night". Great selection of live bands and a heated patio make Lemongrass/Pepper's Pub a great place to eat and drink.  
• Cora's Breakfast & Lunch ( Located in Brunswick Square ). Chain of breakfast restaurants which are now popular all over Atlantic Canada. Impressive fruit plates, delicious crepes and huge portions. Inexpensive. Expect to spend around $30-40 for two, including drinks.  
• Vito's , 2 Peel Plaza , ☏ +1 506 634-3900 . M-W 11AM-8PM; Th F 11AM-9PM; Sa 4-9PM; Su 4PM-8PM . This locally owned family restaurant was founded in 1972 by four Greek immigrant brothers and is very popular for pizza and spaghetti. ( updated Jan 2023 )
• Uptown Eatery , 68 King St , ☏ +1 506 631-0186 . M-Th 10AM-7PM; F Sa 10AM-8PM; closed Su . ( updated Jan 2023 )
• Vegas Bar and Grill , 10 Portland Street , ☏ +1 506 674-5287 , [email protected] . In the Canada's Best Value Inn Fort Howe Plaza. Try the B-Eat the House burger, which is 35 oz of ground beef and trimmings. Eat the whole thing in 45 minutes and it's free. Your photo also goes on their wall. ( updated Apr 2016 )

Drink [ edit ]

• Saint John Ale House , 1 Market Square , ☏ +1 506 657-2337 , [email protected] . On the Boardwalk, inside Market Square. Great selection of beer both local and international. Good eats! You can get the ale-sized fish and chips which is practically a whole side of haddock! Good value for the money. Expect to spend around $10-20 at lunch and a little bit more in the evenings. Has a bar downstairs and a fine dining establishment upstairs. ( updated Apr 2016 )
• O'Leary's , 46 Princess Street , ☏ +1 506 634-7135 . A popular Irish pub in Uptown, it has live music on Friday and Saturday nights, usually rock and country cover bands. O'Leary's has broken away from the live bands on the weekends and often plays the hottest dance hits.  
• Callahan's , 2 Princess Street , ☏ +1 506 634-0366 , [email protected] . Tu-Sa 2PM . Friendly pub at the foot of Princess Street, near cruise terminal. Establishment has unusual vaulted ceiling having once served as the mail room in Canada's oldest post office. Free Wi-Fi, ATM.  

Sleep [ edit ]

Finding a place to stay in Saint John shouldn't be a hassle. For those of you who prefer a comfortable stay near everything you could wish to see, try one of the hotels or B&Bs in the uptown. Hotels in Saint John cost on average $120 per night for a single. However, if you are travelling on a budget there are still some comfortable motels around the city.

• Hilton Saint John , 1 Market Square , ☏ +1 506 693-8484 . On boardwalk, connected to Market Square via underground tunnels. over $100 .  
• Delta Brunswick , 39 King Street , ☏ +1 506 648-1981 . Uptown, accessible through Brunswick Square. $125-150 .  
• Canadas Best Value Inn Saint John ( Fort Howe Hotel & Convention Centre ), 10 Portland Street , ☏ +1 506 657-3610 , toll-free: +1-800-943-0033 . Between the North End of Saint John and Uptown, near the highway. Basic hotel, good amenities, dining room on-site. Free Wifi. Pool and hot tub. From $90 . ( updated Sep 2016 )
• Chipman Hill Suites , 76 Union Street , ☏ +1 506 693-1711 . Various local B&Bs, all in beautiful heritage buildings in the uptown area. From $100 .  
• Hampton Inn , 51 Fashion Drive ( East Side of the City ), ☏ +1 506 657-4600 . Relatively new property with modern amenities, pool, water slide, near east side shopping malls and the highway. $60-80 .  

For camping underneath the stars, Rockwood Park or the village of St. Martins are suitable choices.

A few cottages or country inns may be found in the city, with many more in the suburbs and nearby country.

Connect [ edit ]

Internet access is available in several areas within the "Inside Connection", including a convenience store in Market Square and an Internet Cafe located en route between Market Square and Brunswick Square. In addition, many coffee places also offer free wi-fi. Any Java Moose or Starbucks locations will offer this. Also, on King Street in the uptown area, there is UZone which is an internet cafe. They also offer by-the-hour video gaming and LAN gaming.

Nearby [ edit ]

Stay safe [ edit ].

Saint John is safe compared to most cities; however, it is a good idea to walk on well-lit busy streets after dark and not on darker side streets. Street crime is rare but not unheard of. You are relatively safe in the commercial/retail area of uptown, where the hotels are located. The South End, also known as "uptown", can be dangerous in certain areas, as well as the North End.

Go next [ edit ]

• Bay of Fundy - Fundy National Park offers great hiking and camping.
• Moncton - The largest city and the largest metropolitan city in New Brunswick.
• Sussex (New Brunswick) - The "Dairy Centre of the Maritimes". Main attractions: Poley Mountain Ski Hill (winter) and the Atlantic International Balloon Fiesta (2nd weekend in September).
• Fredericton - Historic capital of New Brunswick.
• Digby , NS - It's scallops are renowned as the best in the world

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Things to Do in Saint John, New Brunswick

August 16, 2022 By Matthew G. Bailey 3 Comments

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As one of New Brunswick’s biggest cities and a major port and industrial centre, Saint John has a lot to offer and is also a great base for exploring other parts of the province, such as Fundy Trail Parkway .

Not to be confused with St. John’s, Newfoundland (which is actually known as the oldest English-founded city in North America), Saint John was founded in 1783 by Loyalists fleeing the American Revolution and is the oldest incorporated city in Canada. This deep history has resulted in a really beautiful and historic downtown centre that has many beautiful brick buildings that were built after the catastrophic fire of 1877.

The city basically sits where the Saint John River enters the Bay of Fundy, which has also led to the creation of one of its most popular natural attractions. This natural phenomenon is called Reversing Falls, which is caused by the collision of the Bay of Fundy and the Saint John River, creating a series of rapids and whirlpools.

However, there’s much more to the city than historic brick buildings and the Reversing Falls, so in this travel guide to the best things to do in Saint John, we’ll fill you in on what not to miss during your next visit to this historic Atlantic Canadian city.

1. Reversing Falls

If there’s one thing you’ll constantly hear about while travelling around New Brunswick , it’s the Bay of Fundy, which s home to the highest tides in the world. The best places to really witness them are along the Fundy Trail Parkway, Fundy National Park, or popular attractions such as Hopewell Rocks .

However, another great place to see the power of the Bay of Fundy is right in Saint John at Reversing Falls . This narrow gorge at the head of the harbour, where the incoming tide is forced over a ridge of rock, creates a waterfall that flows upstream. The 8-metre difference between sea levels at high and low tide actually makes the Saint John River flow backwards, forming a turbulent mass of whirlpools and rapids as it forces its way against the natural outward flow. Twelve hours later, the river resumes its natural course, and the falls flow over the stone ridge in the other direction.

This natural phenomenon can easily be seen from Reversing Falls Bridge, which features a lookout deck and some signs explaining what is happening. There’s also a new attraction called the Skywalk Saint John, which features an observation platform with glass floor panels that extends out from the cliff by more than 8-metres to show a clear view of the whirlpool and rapids 30 metres below. We haven’t tried the Skywalk yet as it wasn’t open when we were there, but in all honesty, I can’t quite see how it can be better than the free observation deck across the river. Perhaps if the interpretive centre has some videos and detailed information, it might add to the experience.

Another great place to see the intense rush of water caused by the intense tide flow is Fallsview Park, which is also part of the Stonehammer Geopark-the only UNESCO-listed geopark in North America. Another popular way to experience the falls is by taking a boat ride into the gorge.

2. Walking Tour of Historic Saint John

With so much history spread out amongst a beautiful city centre, the best way to really see it all is by taking your own self-guided walking tour. There are a variety of walking tour maps you can either pick up from the visitor centre or by viewing them online , allowing you to walk around at your own pace while actually learning about the stunning buildings you see all around you. We did the Loyalist Trail during our visit, which took about 2-3 hours at a slow pace and really gave us some interesting insight into the history of Canada’s oldest incorporated city.

If you’re wondering why there’s a walking trail called the Loyalist Trail , it’s because the early settlers of Saint John were families who supported the British Crown during the American Revolution and escaped on two fleets of ships from Massachusetts. Although they certainly shaped the early architecture of the city, the Great Fire of 1877 wiped out most of the wooden buildings. After that fire, the building was rebuilt with brick, which is what gives it the unique look it has today.

These brick buildings that remain to this day include some of the best Georgian and Victorian architecture styles that can be found in Canada. The streets of brick townhouses also reflect the influence of the Boston architects who came here to help rebuild the city

Some of the places these walking tours might take you to include Prince William Street, which is a designated National Historic Site for its concentration of distinguished buildings designed and decorated in the styles of a single period, the beautiful St. John’s Anglican Church, which was built in 1825 and is a National Historic Site, and the Chipman Hill Suites, which are not only a National Historic Site but also a 3-star hotel that you can stay in.

There are many other places you’ll visit as well, such as King’s Square, the very old Loyalist Burial Ground, Market Square, St.Johns Stone Church, and the Loyalist House, which is the oldest surviving wooden house in the city and a museum you can visit.

Saint John City Market

This classic old market hall is one of the few buildings that escaped the Great Fire of 1876 and is thought to be the oldest common-law market in Canada, in continuous use since 1876. It’s not very big but it is home to a variety of local handmade goods, food, and drink. We especially loved the architecture of the roof, which resembles a ship’s hull.

If you end up taking a walking tour around Saint John, you’ll almost certainly visit the Saint John City Market as it is one of the top attractions. Today a bell still rings each market day, Monday through Saturday, to signal the opening and closing of the trade.

Address: 47 Charlotte St, Saint John, New Brunswick.

Loyalist House

This house was built in the Georgian style by Loyalist David Merritt between 1810 and 1817, this is the oldest wooden building in Saint John and one of very few to survive the Great Fire. David Merrit fled New York with his family and after remaining in the Merrit family for six generations without being structurally altered, It was acquired by the New Brunswick Historical Society in 1959 and restored as a museum with period furnishings.

The relatively plain facade of the white wooden house conceals a spacious and elegant Georgian interior, with unusual curved doors, elegant architectural features, and beautiful furnishings that are fine examples of several styles popular in the early 19th century.

The Loyalist House has been recognized by the American Association for State and Local History for excellence in restoration.

Address: 120 Union St, Saint John, New Brunswick.

New Brunswick Museum

Although the New Brunswick Museum is closed while they find a new home, it is definitely well worth visiting if it’s open when you arrive. Filled with engaging exhibits that explore the province’s natural history, culture, art, and history, there is something here for people of all ages.

If you’ve seen the New Brunswick Flag and the beautiful ship that adorns it, you’ll be happy to know that New Brunswick’s 19th-century golden age of shipbuilding and sailing is beautifully represented, with artifacts and informative displays that give a sense of what life was like on these ships and the places they travelled.

There’s also the Great Hall of Whales, Our Changing Earth, and plenty of places where kids can get interactive. Indigenous Peoples of Canada and their culture and arts are also well covered here with an emphasis on interpreting and understanding rather than just looking at collections.

Address: Currently closed while they find a new location.

Imperial Theatre

Another historic building that most walking tours will feature is the Imperial Theatre , a century-old theatre that was built in 1913 as a vaudeville house, and is now one of the grandest buildings in the city.

It all started in 1911 when Albert E. Westover, a leading architect from Philadelphia, was hired to design a performing centre for Saint John. It opened in 1913 as a 1500-seat theatre that has featured such greats as John Philip Sousa, Ethel Barrymore and Gracie Fields. The theatre was renamed the Capitol in 1929 and began showing movies in addition to the live performances it already offered. It was then sold to the Full Gospel Assembly in 1957 until a public campaign in 1982 raised $1 million to purchase the building.

The theatre was then renovated and re-opened in May of 1994. Tours are available for a fee between September and April (you need to call ahead to book) but perhaps the best way to experience the Imperial Theatre would be to attend one of the many concerts and stage plays that take place throughout the year.

Address: 12 King Square S, Saint John, New Brunswick

Explore Irving Nature Park

Established to protect 11 kilometres (7 miles) of Bay of Fundy shoreline and only a 15-minute drive from downtown Saint John, the 600-acre Irving Nature Park sits on a narrow peninsula that represents six different ecosystems and nurtures one of the province’s richest marine ecosystems.

It offers beautiful views of the Fundy coastline and is a popular destination among locals and visitors to enjoy the outdoors, with groomed trails and a gravel road for walking, hiking, and biking. Visitors will find forests, mud flats, a salt marsh, volcanic rock, a long sandy beach, and landscapes that change by the hour due to the ever-changing Bay of Fundy tides.

There are also accessible washrooms, lookouts, free picnic sites and gas barbecues, free interactive educational programs and activities, and even a children’s forest with a playground and life-size mazes. To get a glimpse into the size of the park, stop by the Lookout Tower, which is the park’s highest point with a 360-degree view of land and sea.

Birders will also fall in love with Irving Nature Park as it’s a traditional staging site for migratory and marine birds that travel between the Arctic and South America, and a breeding ground for many waterfowl of the Atlantic coastline. More than 250 species of migratory and marine birds have been sighted here, and the boardwalk through the marsh is an especially good vantage point for birders.

You can also watch the harbor seals from the Seal Observation Deck and you may also run into some deer or squirrels along the way. Special events like meteor showers, geological history, moonlight snowshoeing and story sessions are all free.

We loved Irving Nature Park!

Address: 1790 Sand Cove Rd, Saint John, New Brunswick

Rockwood Park

There’s certainly no shortage of places in Saint John to find nature and Rockwood Park is another excellent choice. Popular with locals and visitors, Rockwood Park is a popular year-round park that is also part of the UNESCO Stonehammer Geopark system thanks to its billion years of history. With more than 2,200 acres of natural bliss, this park is home to more than 55 paths and trails, 10 lakes, a large playground, and so much more.

There’s also the Inside Out Nature Center, which offers a variety of outdoor equipment rentals, including kayaks, paddleboards, hydro-bikes, pedal boats, and bicycles. The center also offers rock climbing on the natural terrain, geocaching, and guided nature hikes. Visitors can even camp right at the park in tents or RVs. There’s even an 18-hole public golf course!

Even in the winter, Rockwood Park is popular for pond hockey, skating, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing.

Although we didn’t get to enjoy the park to its fullest during our visit, we did have dinner at the Lily Lake Pavilion, which sits on the shores of Lily Lake. Learn more towards the end of this article.

Address: 10 Fisher Lakes Dr, Saint John, New Brunswick

Area 506 Container Village

Saint John’s latest attraction is the colourful and hip Area 506 Container Village that’s located right on the waterfront for both locals and tourists to enjoy. It features a diverse collection of retail shops, a performance space, a waterfront container bar, food trucks, public art and pop-up activities, all within and around more than 60 colourful shipping containers.

For a port city like Saint John, this is such a great way to celebrate the identity of the city and it’s right next to the Marco Polo Cruise Terminal, making it a great place for cruise visitors to explore as well. Another added bonus besides the great products, food, drink, entertainment, and art, is that Mint Rentals has a container there as well, allowing visitors to rent scooters and explore the city in a fun and fast way.

Address: 85 Water St, Saint John, New Brunswick

Carleton Martello Tower

Another interesting National Historic Site in Saint John is the Carleton Martello Tower , which was built in 1813 to protect the port against a possible attack from the United States. It is typical of the round defensive forts built throughout the British Empire in the first half of the 19th century and is one of only nine of the original 14 Canadian towers to survive.

Although it never did get used for “firepower”, the tower was put to use as area headquarters for the anti-aircraft defence and fire-fighting services during World War II. Today, it serves as a museum of military life dating back to the 18th century, as well as a great place to get views over Saint John.

Address: 454 Whipple St, Saint John, New Brunswick

Fort Howe National Historic Site

Another National Historic Site? Yes, that’s right. Since Saint John is the oldest incorporated city in Canada, it makes sense that it’s full of historic sites, many of which you can enjoy.

The British constructed Fort Howe in 1777 as a response to several requests from the residents around the mouth of the Saint John River that their small settlement needed to be protected from further attacks by American privateers. With its location on a towering rock offering unmatched views of the harbour and up the river, Fort Howe and its garrison provided protection to the surrounding settlements through the end of the War of 1812. It also operated as military headquarters and the first civil jail in the town before falling into disrepair after 1819.

Today, it has been preserved, along with a replica of the wooden blockhouse, and aside from offering a look into Canada’s history, also provides a magnificent panoramic view of the shipyards, harbour, river, and town.

Address: Magazine Street, Saint John, New Brunswick

Explore the Art Galleries

Art beautifies life and for those of you into art and fine craftsmanship, Saint John has many art galleries, studios, and crafts marketplaces to browse and enjoy. Most of them are scattered throughout the historic uptown area and range from the studios of individual artists to larger galleries showing both fine and decorative arts. There’s also street art all over the city and a variety of art pieces at the New Brunswick Museum.

Some of the popular art galleries include Handworks Gallery, which showcases beautifully handcrafted wooden furniture, pottery, glass, sculpture, and fine art by local artists and craftsmen, as well as the Spicer Merrifield Gallery, which represents Canadian artists and fine craftsmen, selling jewellery, fine art, and fine craft. Some other galleries include Cobalt Art Gallery, Tim Issac Gallery, Jones Gallery, and Trinity Galleries, which represent artists from the Canadian Maritimes and across the country.

To get creative yourself, consider a visit to the Saint John Arts Centre where, depending on the time, might be able to take a course on building clay objects, pottery on the wheel, and more.

Rent a Scooter

If you haven’t been on a scooter yet, they’re such a fun way to travel around a city. If you have been on one, you know what we’re talking about. Mint Rentals , which is located in Fredericton and at the Area 506 Container Village rents scooters by the hour, allowing you to travel around the city at a much faster pace than walking. We rented them from the container village and travelled over to Reversing Falls, which only took around 15 minutes or less.

Eat Your Heart Out

For all the foodies out there, or really anyone just looking for a tasty meal, Saint John is actually home to a variety of delicious restaurant options. Whether you’re looking for something in the historic downtown core or something a little further out, there’s something for everyone. Below are some of the restaurants we tried during our visit.

Vegolution : One of the highest-rated restaurants in the city is a vegan restaurant called Vegolution. It’s right downtown in the hustle and bustle and has an array of tasty meatless dishes such as Sticky Korean Soy Bits, Smoked Tomato Penne, and a Veggie Donair with house-made donair, onion, tomato, lettuce, cashew sauce, and house-cut fries. They also have some wonderful Kombucha to enjoy on the side.

Lily’s Lakeside Casual Dining : Not far from downtown, Lily’s Lakeside is located next to beautiful Lily Lake, making it a great place to enjoy a relaxing meal, especially on the patio during a warm day. Operated by a Registered Charity with 100% of the Profits Going Back to the Community, this restaurant focused on fresh local ingredients and casual fare. During our visit, we enjoyed the East Coast Seafood Linguine and Blackened Fish Tacos with Mango Salsa, both of which were really good.

Splash Thai Cuisine : Although this restaurant is located a little further out of downtown, it’s one of the highest-rated restaurants in Saint John, especially for those looking for Thai food. As usual, we ordered their Pad Thai, which is one of our favourite Thai dishes, as well as their Massaman Curry, which is a tangy curry with chicken, sweet potatoes and peanuts in coconut milk. The curry won!

Want More Things to Do?

While Saint John is an excellent city to explore for a couple of days, there’s so much more to both New Brunswick and the rest of Atlantic Canada. For more ideas on what to do, check out our Canadian travel guides below:

• Things to Do in Nova Scotia
• Things to Do in Prince Edward Island
• Things to Do in Charlottetown PEI
• Things to Do in Halifax
• Things to Do in Newfoundland

About Matthew G. Bailey

Matthew G. Bailey is the founder and editor-in-chief of Must Do Canada. Growing up in Alberta to a mother from Quebec and a father from Newfoundland, Matt spent his childhood playing hockey under the Northern Lights and hanging out in the forest before moving to Calgary and travelling to more than 250 cities spanning 42 countries and 6 continents. He loves travel, learning new things, playing sports, writing, making videos, photography, and scuba diving. You can also find him at LiveLimitless.net .

Reader Interactions

August 16, 2022 at 11:11 pm

Excellent coverage. Just another fact to add to the reversing notes is that you can actually witness b hawthe geographic fact that it sits on the divide of Africa and North America.

August 17, 2022 at 10:58 am

witness what sorry? I missed that one

September 5, 2022 at 11:39 am

I really need to get to the east coast! Looks like a really good place to visit and explore.

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Visit Saint John, Canada

Saint John (not St. John and not to be confused with St. John’s, Newfoundland) is situated on the south coast of New Brunswick on the edge of the Bay of Fundy.

Following a devastating fire in 1877, much of the town was rebuilt and many of the Victorian buildings have since been lovingly restored, especially along Prince William Street.

New Brunswick Museum and the Reversing Falls Rapids

Two principal attractions are the New Brunswick Museum and the Reversing Falls Rapids which is a good place to see the effects of the Fundy tides. Fundy National Park is nearby, where visitors can marvel at the highest tides in the world.

The city also offers some great restaurants and pubs where seafood is a frequent highlight.

Start planning your tailor-made trip to Saint John by contacting one of our Canada specialists

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Suggested itinerary featuring Saint John

This sample itinerary will give you an idea of what is possible when you travel in Saint John, and showcases routes we know work particularly well. Treat this as inspiration, because your trip will be created uniquely by one of our specialists.

Atlantic Canada's maritime treasures self-drive tour

17 days from $4,780pp

Map of Saint John

Places & hotels on the map, places near saint john.

• The Bay of Fundy 21 miles away
• Annapolis Royal 46 miles away
• Saint Andrews by-the-Sea 50 miles away
• Hopewell Rocks 82 miles away
• New Brunswick 102 miles away
• Lunenburg 106 miles away
• Kouchibouguac National Park 121 miles away
• West Point 125 miles away
• Halifax 130 miles away
• Prince Edward Island 152 miles away
• Cavendish 155 miles away
• Charlottetown 157 miles away
• Pictou 166 miles away
• Nova Scotia 173 miles away
• Caraquet & the Acadian Peninsula 181 miles away
• Spry Point 191 miles away
• Liscomb Mills 195 miles away
• Charlos Cove 231 miles away
• Îles de la Madeleine 246 miles away
• La Malbaie 256 miles away
• The Gaspé Peninsula 258 miles away
• Charlevoix & Saguenay - Lac St. Jean 260 miles away
• Cape Breton & Cabot Trail 266 miles away
• Québec City 270 miles away
• Eastern Townships 275 miles away
• Ingonish 288 miles away
• Louisbourg 298 miles away

Photos of Saint John

Our expert guides to exploring Saint John

Written by our specialists from their own experiences of visiting Saint John, these guides will help you make the most of your time there. We share both our practical recommendations and the best ways to appreciate Saint John at its best.

Canada’s Maritime Provinces

Canada’s Maritime Provinces offer a quieter alternative to the west coast. Here, you can follow coastal roads to secluded coves and traditional lighthouses. Visit peaceful fishing villages where saltbox houses line the waterfront. And, explore the area’s Celtic roots. Canada specialist Jon shares his highlights of the region.

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Land acknowledgement

The Saint John Region is situated on the traditional and unceded territory of the Wolastoqiyik, Mi’Kmaq, and Peskotomuhkati Nations. This territory is covered by Peace and Friendship Treaties signed with the British Crown in the 1700s. The treaties did not surrender the territory and resources, but recognized Wolastoqiyik, Mi’Kmaq, and Peskotomuhkati title, and established the rules for what was to be an ongoing relationship between nations.

Envision Saint John: The Regional Growth Agency pays respect to the elders, past and present, and descendants of this land, and is committed to moving forward in the spirit of truth, collaboration, and reconciliation.

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Saint John, New Brunswick   Travel Guide

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Best Times To Visit Saint John, New Brunswick

The best times to visit Saint John are April to May and September to October. These shoulder seasons offer mild weather, a colorful landscape (with blooming flowers or changing leaves) and low room rates. Summer is by far the most popular time to visit Saint John thanks to its warmer temperatures and abundant festivals, but heavy crowds can turn the exploration of the rather small downtown area into a test of patience. You'll have the city all to yourself if you visit during the winter, but icy sea breezes will keep you confined to the underground passageways and overhead walkways of the Inside Connection.

Weather in Saint John, New Brunswick

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

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Popular Times to Visit Saint John, New Brunswick

Tourism volume is estimated based on in-market destination search query interest from Google and on travel.usnews.com in 2015-2016. Hotel prices are sourced from a sample of U.S. News Best Hotels rates through 2015-2016.

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Saint John travel guide

Saint john tourism | saint john guide, you're going to love saint john.

With a population of 87 857, Saint John is the largest city in New Brunswick, Canada by the number of inhabitants. It is one of the most popular cities to visit in the country. Saint John deserves at least 2 full days for you to see its main sights.

Activities & attractions in Saint John

Where to Eat in Saint John

If you’re looking for affordable options, Saint John Ale House (1 Market Square) and Italian by Night (97 Germain St) are great picks.

When to visit Saint John

Looking for warm weather? Then head to Saint John in July, when the average temperature is 62.6 °F, and the highest can go up to 73.4 °F. The coldest month, on the other hand, is January, when it can get as cold as 8.6 °F, with an average temperature of 17.6 °F. You’re likely to see more rain in November, when precipitation is around 5.3″. In contrast, August is usually the driest month of the year in Saint John, with an average rainfall of 3.2″.

How to Get to Saint John

When flying to Saint John, you’ll arrive at Saint John (YSJ), which is located 15 km from the city center. The shortest flight to Saint John from the United States departs from New York and takes around 4h 56m.

Another option to get to Saint John is to pick up a car rental from Halifax, which is about 208 km from Saint John. You’ll find branches of Budget and Hertz, among others, in Halifax.

Saint John’s bus station is located 0.7 km from the city center.

Airports near Saint John

Airlines serving saint john, where to stay in saint john.

Average rates range from around $110 per night for a double room in a 3-star hotel to $117 and up for a 5-star experience.

Where to stay in popular areas of Saint John

Most booked hotels in saint john, renting a car in saint john.

Renting a car in Saint John costs $65 per day, on average, or $130 if you want to rent if for 2 days.

It’s generally cheaper to rent your vehicle outside the airport: locations in the city are around 7% cheaper than airport locations in Saint John.

Expect to pay $5.22 per gallon in Saint John (average price from the past 30 days). Depending on the size of your rental car, filling up the tank will cost between $62.69 and $83.58. Intermediate (Chevrolet Cruze or similar) is the most popular car type to rent in Saint John, while also 50% cheaper than other types, on average.

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Visit Saint John

Saint John is the largest city in New Brunswick and the main port of the Bay of Fundy. Explore Saint John’s charming city center to find classic Victorian architecture and a historic marketplace. Over the centuries, Saint John has seen French, British, American and Irish settlements. The city’s rich history is represented by its gorgeous cityscape. Venture out to the bayside to see incredible natural wonders, including yawning caves and sandstone cliffs, formed by the Bay of Fundy’s record-high tides.

The heart of the city is Market Square, which features a brick mall within the warehouses along the city’s old wharf. Head east on King’s Street to find the colorful brick marketplace of Saint John City Market, built in 1876. See performances by Saint John’s main orchestra, theater troupes and opera company at the Imperial Theater.

Learn about Saint John’s colonial heritage at the Loyalist House. During the warmer months, take a tour of the 1817 Victorian building and see its stately period furnishings. Visit the Carleton Martello Tower, south of the Saint John River, which was built to protect the city during the War of 1812.

Visit Saint John’s extensive and scenic waterfront. Saint John is located at the intersection of the mighty Saint John River and the Bay of Fundy, which features the highest tides in the world. The result of this junction is Reversing Falls, a point in the Saint John River where the water reverses twice every day due to the bay’s tides. Watch the reversal from Fallsview Park or a waterfront restaurant. For another glimpse of the bay’s tidal power, head northeast to St. Martins, where at low tide you can walk through huge caves carved into the sandstone cliffs.

Flights from most major Canadian cities arrive in Saint John’s airport daily. Saint John is a 5-hour drive from Portland, Maine. Summer is the best season to enjoy this historic port town on the remarkable Bay of Fundy.

• Saint John Hotel Deals
• Vacation Rentals in Saint John

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Popular places to visit.

• Reversing Falls

This portion of the Saint John River is where a rare geologic wonder takes place. Choose from several fun ways to experience it.

• Saint John City Market

During your trip to Saint John, you can find the perfect gifts to bring home at Saint John City Market. While you're in the area, stroll along the waterfront.

• Saint John Regional Hospital

Though Saint John Regional Hospital might be what brings you to town, perhaps you'll have a chance to explore more of Saint John while you are here.

• Bay Ferries

Explore the waterfront in Saint John with a trip to Bay Ferries. While in this walkable area, find time to visit its shops.

• Marco Polo Cruise Terminal

Explore the waterfront in Saint John with a trip to Marco Polo Cruise Terminal. While in this walkable area, find time to visit its shops.

University of New Brunswick - Saint John

Take a campus tour or just explore the area of University of New Brunswick - Saint John, during your trip to Saint John. Stroll along the waterfront or visit the shops in the area.

Things to do

Create your own stained glass masterpiece, other places like saint john.

• Cities near Saint John
• Places of interest
• Saint John Trade and Convention Centre
• Market Square
• Saint Joseph's Hospital
• Harbour Station
• Saint John Imperial Theatre
• Irving Nature Park
• Rockwood Park
• Stonehammer Geopark
• St. Andrew and St. David United Church
• Musquash Head Lighthouse
• Partridge Island Lighthouse
• Carleton Martello Tower
• King's Square
• Reed's Point Lighthouse
• Saint John Coast Guard Base Lighthouse
• Loyalist Burial Ground
• New Brunswick Museum
• Charles Gorman Arena
• Stewart Hurley Arena

• Itineraries
• Get Inspired
• Plan & Book

Welcome to St. John’s

• History & Heritage
• Sightseeing & Shopping
• Dining and Nightlife

Discover our History & Heritage

St. john's historical & cultural attractions.

• Railway Coastal Museum St. John's
• Commissariat Provincial Historic Site St. John's
• Petty Harbour Mini Aquarium Petty Harbour
• Crow's Nest Officers' Club St. John's
• Admiralty House Museum and Archives Mount Pearl
• The Fluvarium St. John's
• Citadel Trail - Parks Canada Signal Hill National Historic Site St. John's
• Travel offers starting at $175 Quidi Vidi Brewing Company Limited St. John's
• #2 Mine Tour and Museum Bell Island Bell Island

Explore our Sightseeing & Shopping

St. john's local tour operators.

• Heritage Tours St. John's
• Ocean Quest Adventures Various Locations
• Newfoundland International Vacation Group St. John's
• NL Bus Tours Inc St. John's
• Tours by Lindsey St. John's
• Travel offers starting at $99 A Wilder Experience Various Locations
• Pedego Electric Bikes St. John's
• The Imaginary Real St. John's
• Travel offers starting at $9 Fairy Door Tours St. John's

St. John's Craft, Shops & Galleries

• Heritage Shop Duckworth Street St. John's
• JACOBEAN Craft Chocolate Various Locations
• The Rooms Gift Shop St. John's
• Natural Boutique St. John's
• O'Brien's Music St. John's
• James Baird Pouch Cove Pouch Cove
• Herbie's Olde Craft Shoppe Petty Harbour
• The Leyton Gallery of Fine Art St. John's
• Downhome Shoppe - St. John's Various Locations in St. John's

Experience our Dining & Nightlife

St. john's restaurants.

• $$ The Gypsy Tea Room St. John's
• $$ O'Reilly's Irish Newfoundland Pub St. John's
• $$ Breen's St. John's
• $$ Aunt Sarah's Chocolate Shop Various Locations
• Travel offers starting at $260 $$ Magnum & Steins St. John's
• $$ YellowBelly Brewery @ YYT St. John's
• $$$$ Spirit of Newfoundland Productions Dinner & Show St. John's
• $$ The Grounds Cafe Portugal Cove
• $$ The Battery Cafe St. John's

Getting to St. John's

Customizable itineraries.

• 14 Days 14 Days of Adventure, Coast to Coast
• 13 Days Whales, Bergs & Birds
• 4 Days Most Easterly Point in North America
• 3 Days Birding on the Avalon
• 3 Days Hike Town, Country & Coastline
• 3 Days The Baccalieu Trail
• 3 Days The Irish Loop & Cape Shore
• 3 Days Three Days Around St. John’s

Videos far, far off the beaten path

The View From Here

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Travel Stories

• The Halloween Haunted Hike: A Ghost-hunters Guide… By Newfoundland & Labrador
• Where to Weekend: St. John’s, Newfoundland By Fodor's Travel
• Signal Hill: A must-see attraction with a colourful… By Globe Content Studio
• The Stiles Cove Path From Start to Finish By Destination St. John's
• Signal Hill National Historic Site By Newfoundland & Labrador
• George Street By Newfoundland & Labrador
• Rowing Rings Around the Competition By Newfoundland & Labrador
• Why can’t it be the destination and the journey? By Newfoundland & Labrador
• The Signal Hill Star: A Holiday Tradition By Newfoundland & Labrador
• The Museums and Galleries of St. John's By Newfoundland & Labrador
• Travel the WORLD Right Here in Newfoundland and Labrador By Gays Around The Bay
• 10 Things to Eat, See, and Do in St. John's, Newfoundland… via: JohnnyJet.com
• 16 Beautiful Hiking Trails in St. John’s via: Explore With Lora
• How to Plan 4 Days While Based in St. John's - A… via: GoingAwesomePlaces.com
• ‘May Your Big Jib Draw’: Seven Irresistible Reasons… via: TravelMarketReport.com
• A Day in Quidi Vidi By Destination St. John's
• Things To Do in St. John’s Newfoundland via: DobberNationLoves.com
• Out here, there's a story around every corner. By The Globe Content Studio
• How to do a foraging day trip out of St. John's via: Leaderpost.com
• These are the 4 things you must eat next in St. John's Via: CalgaryHerald.com
• 24 Hours In St Johns, Newfoundland and Labrador via HandLuggageOnly.com
• Neighborhood Stroll: Where to eat, stay and shop… Via: TheGlobeandMail.com
• In St. John's, the weather decides if you get the… Via: TheStar.com
• Have breakfast in London, lunch in Newfoundland at… Via: TheTimes.co.uk
• Newfoundland scenic fishing village Quidi Vidi a… Via: NationalPost.com
• St. John’s Will Steal Your Heart Via: TravelPress.com
• How to Explore St. John's in One Day Via: AdventureAwaits.ca
• Avalon Peninsula - A Top Rated Coastal Destination… Via: NationalGeographic.com
• Canada's Vital Role in the Communications Revolution Via: BBC.com
• Newfoundland Food and Traditions - St. John's Via: Travel2Next.com
• From Rhode Island to a Warm Welcome in Newfoundland Via: ProvidenceJournal.com
• What To Do, See, And Eat In St. John's, N.L. Via: HuffingtonPost.ca
• 28 Fun And Interesting Facts About St. John’s, Newfoundland Via: HikeBikeTravel.com
• Fork in the Map: St. John’s Newfoundland Via: TravelMaritimes.com
• Newfoundland and Labrador: Avalon Peninsula Via: NationalGeographic.com
• The best trail you’ve likely never heard of is on… Via: BostonGlobe.com
• Summer in the City: 11 Things to Do in St. John’s Via: Flare.com
• Experiencing The Best of St. John’s Newfoundland… Via LandLopers.com

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St. john's offers.

• Starting at $199 Per Package Jan 1, 2023 - Dec 31, 2025 Cape Spear & St. John's Photography Tour Newfoundland Photo Tours
• 8 Days Starting at $3,795 Per Person Jan 1 - Aug 1, 2024 Newfoundland Adventure Wildland Tours
• Starting at $300 Per Package Sep 1 - Dec 31, 2024 Five Colours of Fall - St. John’s Photo Tour Far East Photography Tours
• Starting at $289 Per Package Jan 4, 2023 - Dec 31, 2025 St. John's Sunset Tour Newfoundland Photo Tours
• 8 Days Starting at $1,739 Per Person May 1 - Oct 31, 2024 East Coast Inspiration Maxxim Vacations
• Starting at $300 Per Package Jan 3 - Dec 31, 2024 Lighthouses of Avalon Photo Tour Far East Photography Tours
• 12 Days Starting at $4,190 Per Person Oct 18, 2023 - Nov 30, 2024 12 Day Comprehensive Newfoundland & Labrador Tour McCarthy's Party
• Starting at $95 Per Person May 18 - Oct 13, 2024 Newfoundland Food Tour St. John's Walking Tours
• Starting at $260 Per Couple Sep 1, 2023 - Dec 31, 2024 3 Course Wine Pairing + 1 Night's Accommodations Magnum & Steins and The Duckworth Inn

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The Complete St. John USVI Travel Guide

This post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you buy or book through one of these links, I may earn a small commission .

Are you planning a trip to the stunning Caribbean island of St. John? If so, this comprehensive St. John USVI travel guide will ensure you have the tropical vacation of a lifetime. If this is your first time visiting the island, you are going to be in awe of its turquoise white sand beaches and lush foliage. However, St. John is no ordinary island, and there are many unique factors to consider when planning your trip.

The views on St. John are certainly quite stunning to behold, and I’d choose it every time if I could only pick one place to “get away from it all”.

It’s a slow paced life on the island, and it’s quite easy to get lost in it and forget all about the daily grind. There’s always a handful of times each year where my husband and I look at each other and seriously consider whether we could just drop everything and move here.

However, there’s no getting around the fact that little island nations like St. John come with their own set of challenges. After eleven years of visiting this beautiful, albeit sometimes frustrating tropical paradise, we’ve encountered plenty of setbacks in various degrees. Just when I think I’ve seen it all, there is always something new to keep us on our toes.

That being said, I still think St. John is one of the best places on this earth to vacation. So, let’s get into this St. John USVI travel guide and make your trip as amazing (and smooth) as possible!

• Why St. John
• Island Overview

Prepare for your trip

When to visit, getting to st. john.

• Renting a Vehicle
• Where to Stay
• Where to Eat

Other Things to Know

Why st. john.

There are so many Caribbean islands to choose from, so why should you choose the little island of St. John? Well, as I mentioned above, St. John is freaking gorgeous . This can be largely attributed to the fact that about 60% of the island is Virgin Islands National Park. For that reason, you are treated to unadulterated views of rocky island terrain completely covered in lush plant life. The island is smaller and less developed than the other USVI’s, but has incredible beaches and plenty of things to do.

You cannot get to St. John by plane and you will not find mainstream chain restaurants, stores or large resorts overtaking the beaches. This provides the rare opportunity to truly unplug and be present in one of the most beautiful places on earth. Don’t worry – they definitely still have plenty of beach bars where you can get your vacation quota of rum-filled beverages.

The sun seekers who return to this island, including myself, appreciate St. John’s laid-back and fuss-free culture. There is no dressing up required in this casual beach bum environment, which is how I like it. T-shirts and shorts all day!

Need some Christmas gift ideas? Check out my St. John themed gift guide!

St. John USVI Island Overview

As any good St. John travel guide should do, I’ll give you a brief overview of this island’s logistics. So, first things first, St. John is one of several islands in a group known as the Virgin Islands. The Virgin Islands are located in the Caribbean Sea about 50-ish miles east of Puerto Rico and 1100 miles south of Florida. They are broken up into the British Virgin Islands (BVI) and U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI), of which St. John is part of the latter. Of the four main islands making up the USVI’s, St. John is the second smallest.

The Virgin Islands are actually formed by the peaks of mountains submerged below sea level, which is what you can thank for their rocky terrain and sweeping views. The islands are known for their lush greenery and white sand beaches that rival any tropical destination in the world. St. John in particular showcases this untouched natural beauty thanks to its national park.

Related: All my tips for saving money in the U.S. Virgin Islands

Here are the things you should start thinking about in advance of your St. John trip . Some of the below are the very things that have landed me and my family in a pickle at times.

• No passport required . The U.S. Virgin Islands are a territory of the United States, so U.S. citizens can travel without a passport. A driver’s license is an acceptable form of ID; however, beginning May 7, 2025 it will need to comply with the new REAL ID identification requirements (if 18 years or older). I still find it easiest to travel with my passport, as it’s required if you’re chartering to the nearby British Virgin Islands.
• Bring cash with you . The ferry, some vendors, and many taxis only take cash. There are ATM’s on St. John (and St. Thomas), but they cannot always be relied upon to be in working order when you need them. On our most recent visit, somehow all four people in our party forgot to bring more than about $20 and the airport ATM was broken. Thank goodness the sympathetic cab driver still drove us across the island to the ferry dock, where there was a functioning ATM.
• Pack light . We like to pack carry-on only, and I’ve created a sample Caribbean packing list here . St. Thomas has a small airport, and if checked bags go missing, they can be a huge pain to recover. Trust me – my family had five go missing one year, and it was not a fun experience.
• December – April: St. John’s busiest and most expensive time to visit. There’s no arguing that the weather is lovely and just hot enough this time of year. You may get the occasional drizzle, but any rain is very fleeting. It’s a wonderful time to come and escape winter; the only downside is large crowds and high prices.
• May – July:  Prices on flights and lodging decrease quite a bit during this time. You’ll find thinner crowds, but the weather will be toasty. I’d still go in a heartbeat. You can always cool down at the beach with an ice cold beverage.
• August – November : This timeframe largely consists of hurricane season and plenty of rain. This is especially true in September and October. In November, you’re more likely to have good weather and things haven’t gotten too expensive and crowded yet.

You can find an even deeper dive on the best times to visit the US Virgin Islands here .

While I wrote an entire post on getting to St. John here , below are the three basic steps:

Step 1: Arrive in St. Thomas

Unfortunately, or fortunately depending on how you look at it, there is no airport on St. John. Therefore, you will need to fly into the Cyril E. King Airport on nearby St. Thomas .

There are several airlines that fly to St. Thomas. Many major American cities have a direct flight option, although some go through San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Travel Savvy Tip

Depending on where you are flying out of, there may not be many flights from that city to St. John in a day. For example, we used to go through Atlanta to catch the daily Delta flight to St. Thomas. A couple times we got delayed from our first flight out of Cleveland which caused us to miss our connection in Atlanta.

In this instance, you either scramble and see if you can get rebooked on another airline, or you wait until the next day. These options aren’t ideal, so if you need a connection, it may be good to fly into that city the night before.

Step 2: Cross the Island to Red Hook

Your next step will be to cross St. Thomas over to the town of Redhook where the ferry dock is located. This step will require either a taxi or a rental car. It’s about a half hour drive from the airport on a winding road full of twists and turns that will reward you with pretty views over the sea.

Step 3: Take the Ferry Over to St. John

After you get to Redhook, make your way over to the ferry dock and buy your tickets. Note that you will need to pay for your tickets in cash , but there is an ATM in the building (remember my tip about ATMs above!).

• If you rented a car on St. Thomas, then you will need to catch the car ferry. This is a big ol’ barge that will carry as many cars as it can hold across the short trip between St. Thomas and St. John . Be sure to check the schedule in advance and arrive at least 30 min prior to departure. The ride will take about a half hour.
• What I consider to be a better option is renting your car on St. John and taking the “people ferry” . This is faster, more comfortable, scenic, and cost effective. The ride takes about 20 minutes and leaves every hour on the hour.
• Both options will drop you off in Cruz Bay on St. John. You can then grab your rental car if you took the people ferry. After that, there is an abundance of restaurant and bar options around for your first island meal. We normally pop into High Tide , since it’s consistent and close to the ferry dock.

Renting a Vehicle in St. John USVI

Check to see if you need a 4×4.

Depending on where you are staying, your rental may only be accessible via Jeep. Note that I said Jeep – not every 4×4 will do the trick, as it must be somewhat lightweight and able to maneuver over bumpy uphill (and likely unpaved) driveways. I’ve also seen some little Suzuki’s riding around the island, so those may work as well.

What won’t work? Clunky Ford Explorers (speaking from experience). You can try something like the Ford Escape if you want, but if your rental specifies Jeep, then you definitely need a Jeep.

Note that not all rentals require a Jeep, as some are more easily accessible than others. Double check with the owner or original posting of the property, as renting a Jeep can be pricey. You don’t want to get one if you don’t need one.

Rent on St. John if you can

I recommend renting your car on St. John for the convenience of taking the people ferry and then grabbing your vehicle. My reasons are twofold:

• Car rentals at the airport can be a bit unpredictable, meaning they may not have the Jeep you requested. This happened to my family one year (the Ford Explorer year), and only one of our two vehicles could be muscled up the driveway.
• The people ferry is such a pleasant and scenic experience, and much faster than the claustrophobic car ferry.

If you prefer to rent on St. Thomas, that is fine too, and you can pick up your car right at the airport upon arrival. The pro to this is you won’t need to hire a taxi to take you to Red Hook to catch the ferry. Just know the car you requested may not be what you get, which could be fine if you don’t need a 4×4.

On St. John, Mr. Pipers Jeeps and St. John Car Rental are two companies we have used and had good experiences with. No matter who you choose, make your reservations well in advance (at least 8 months if booking in high season), and always make sure your reservation is confirmed and a deposit is paid .

Otherwise they may very well run out of Jeeps for your dates in busier times of the year. If no confirmation is received, call the car rental agency immediately to confirm everything and make sure nothing got lost in the shuffle. It happens…

Where to Stay in St. John USVI

There are two main areas on St. John where visitors usually stay. There is Cruz Bay, which is where you land when you arrive on the ferry. Then there is Coral Bay over on the other side of the island. Most lodging options are in these two areas.

In between is the lush jungle of Virgin Islands National Park, which is largely what makes St. John so much less developed than the other U.S. Virgin Islands. Because of this, you won’t find many large resorts or hotel options on the island.

Cruz Bay or Coral Bay?

These two areas offer different perks, depending on what you are looking for:

Cruz Bay: What few hotels you’ll find on St. John are located around Cruz Bay. The biggest one would be The Westin , which just recently reopened since Hurricane Irma. Caneel Bay was the other big resort on St. John, but it’s been out of commission indefinitely since the hurricanes. Here are a couple other factors to consider when deciding whether to stay in or near Cruz Bay:

• Cruz Bay is much livelier than Coral Bay. There are a lot more restaurant and nightlife options, and there is better access to the ferry and some beaches.
• The downside? I don’t think it’s as pretty as Coral Bay, and it’s not nearly as remote and peaceful.

Coral Bay: Harder to access but more untouched than Cruz Bay, Coral Bay is the more beautiful and tranquil side of the island. That being said, you won’t find any hotels in Coral Bay. Your best bet would be renting a villa or finding a small bed and breakfast. I personally love Coral Bay for its sweeping views, low traffic, and some of my favorite places to eat. While St. John’s best beaches aren’t right in the vicinity, they are not a very far drive away.

Vacation Rentals

Renting a villa is a very popular lodging choice on St. John. There are numerous options and a lot of them offer stunning views over the sea. We’ve had wonderful stays at all of the following places:

• Villa Dal Mare : A stylish family-friendly villa on Coral Bay’s Majestic Mile with romantic sea views. This luxury stay has a remote feel, yet is just a short five-minute drive from local shops and restaurants. Expect a fully stocked kitchen, abundant outdoor spaces, a lovely pool, and outdoor games that will please your entire group!
• Estate Fortsberg : As a luxury option that can fit around eight people, the views from Estate Fortsberg simply cannot be beat. With 180 degree views of Coral Bay and hardly another villa in sight, you feel on top of the world. I’ve had the good fortune of staying here just about every year, and it’s a hard place to leave.
• A House of Open Arms Villa (or Cottage ): Perfect for couples or small families, A House of Open Arms is the next best thing after Estate Fortsberg. Being off the same road, you still have that beautiful view of Coral Bay, but are just a bit lower on the hill. My husband and I stayed in the Cottage, and loved how we could see the sea from our bed.
• Hawk’s View and Hawk’s Rest : As a more budget choice, these private rooms are hosted by a very friendly couple and are in pristine condition. I should also mention the amazing view you have of Rendezvous Bay from your balcony at very low dollar. My husband and I stayed in Hawk’s View and had plenty of privacy.

SEE MY FULL LIST OF RECOMMENDED VILLAS ON ST. JOHN HERE!

What to Do in St. John USVI

For a small island there sure is plenty to do on St. John during a vacation. Here are some of the best choices:

• Beaches: Obviously, the beach is the number one activity on St. John, especially those along North Shore Road. All are gorgeous and have something unique to offer, from stand-up paddle boarding to complete relaxation.
• Island Hopping: If you can, I highly recommend catching a charter in Cruz Bay or Coral Bay and doing a little island hopping. Book this charter to visit both the Baths at Virgin Gorda and White Bay on Jost van Dyke in one exciting day!
• Kayak Tours: Do a kayak tour of Hurricane Hole, located in Coral Bay.
• Hiking: Hike on one of St. John’s many trails . Those seeking a challenge may choose to do the Reef Bay Trail, which will take you 3 miles down to the ruins of an old sugar mill and a beach.
• Snorkeling: The existence of a nearby coral reef means there is a lot of great sea life near St. John. At every single beach you can find people snorkeling.

Click here for even more awesome things to do on St. John

Where to Eat in St. John USVI

St. John is filled with beach bars and other laid back eateries. Below are some St. John restaurants you can’t miss.

• High Tide: Make this your first stop after arriving on St. John from the ferry. It is a very short walk along the beach from the dock.
• Skinny Legs: This is a St. John staple for a post-beach burger washed down with a painkiller (the drink of the island) . I always go for a bacon blue cheese burger served with chips.
• The Longboard: My favorite restaurant in Cruz Bay, the Longboard serves extremely fresh seafood dishes. We particularly love their ahi tuna bowls and delicious cocktails, with their specialty being frozen painkillers.
• Upscale Dining: For a special night out, book a reservation at ZoZo’s or Extra Virgin .

Click here for the lowdown on the best places to eat in St. John

• Beach Music: It is very much frowned upon to play music within the national park. If you must play music, consider using headphones or keep the volume at a level that can’t be heard more than a few paces away. I try to save my  beach playlist  for driving around the island in our Jeep.
• Drones are not allowed in the national park . Unfortunately, I am seeing more and more violators every year.
• There is some great wildlife on the island. Most notably, you will see a bunch of donkeys and probably some little goats. The animals are used to people and quite friendly, but please do not feed them. Also, be mindful of their presence while driving, as you will see many of them on or near the road.
• Renting baby supplies: Did you know you can rent car seats and other baby supplies right on St. John? This is what I recommend doing over bringing a bunch of clunky items you will need to lug across the islands. That way, you also reduce the risk of losing checked items at the airport.
• Beware of oversold flights back home from St. Thomas. Yes, this can happen coming as well, but I’ve mostly encountered issues when leaving. My husband and I have been bumped from flights before, and been at the mercy of volunteers willing to leave the next day in exchange for a voucher. Just be aware that this could happen to you. Unless you are the volunteer, in which case, you go on and get that flight credit!

Now you have all the information you need for an unforgettable vacation on St. John. Soon you will see why it’s one of my favorite places on this earth, and maybe it’ll be somewhere you return to repeatedly as well!

Is there anything else you want to know about St. John? What are you looking forward to the most on the island?

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Thank you for all the info. My trip St John to wait till year because covid-19. Looking forward to it. Have been to St Croix during your travels? Thanks. Love reading your essays.

Thanks Oliverio! Sorry you had to postpone your trip, but it’ll be worth it! No St. Croix yet, but it is certainly on the list.

I can’t believe someone would encourage bringing music to the beach on St. John. Not only is it extremely rude to fellow beach goers it is against the law to play music in the national parks where the beaches on St. John are located.

Playing music is not illegal (although amplified music is, and I’ll add that above). Even Maho Bay and Honeymoon Beach have live music from time to time. However, we always make sure our music cannot be heard more than a few steps away, and that’s what I recommend others do as well.

Going in August! COULD NOT BE MORE EXCITED after reading your review.

Aww yay!! You are going to love it 🙂

We are a party of 7 going next month. We just need a rental car a few days to explore a little of the island and visit a few of the beaches. The rental agency has a Ford Explorer or a mini-van available. We are staying at the Westin. Do you think those vehicles will be sufficient for what we need for a few days or do we need 2 jeeps?

If you are staying at the Westin, a Ford Explorer or mini-van will be perfectly fine for exploring the island!

Great review and my family of 4 will be traveling there in august and cannot wait as this will be our first time visiting St John. Your review has heightened our excitement!!

St. John is one of the most wonderful places! I truly hope you love it!

I am getting married in September 2021 and would like to visit St. John for our honeymoon from the 19th – 24th. While I don’t mind a chance of some rain, I don’t want to be completely rained out the entire time. Should we maybe change our honeymoon destination?

Truthfully, September is a less than ideal time to visit the Caribbean. You may not be rained out but there is a very real risk of hurricanes (September is when Category 5 Hurricane Irma hit in 2017). While you may be totally fine, worrying about potential hurricanes hitting is a source of stress you don’t need! Not to mention, many restaurants, tours, etc. close during this month.

That said, I still think St. John is a very special place to spend one’s honeymoon. If you aren’t dead set on September, consider doing a short trip after your wedding to somewhere like Napa or Charleston and heading to St. John in late October/November instead! It’s totally worth the wait 🙂

We are attempting to plan a spring break vacation with kids. We have only been to St. John once on our honeymoon and stayed at the Westin. It was great, but we have a group of 7 and are looking to rent a house this go around. What are the logistics on getting food on the island? Given Covid, we may limit our exposure by not going out to eat quite as much as we normally would.

Hi Jessica! You should have no problem buying groceries when renting a home on St. John. I will say, there aren’t really supermarkets, but smaller grocery stores. The selection is small, but they’ll have what you need. The best grocery store seems to be Starfish Market in Cruz Bay. Normally, we stop there for groceries right after picking up our rental car upon arrival on St. John. As we stay in Coral Bay, we usually also stop at Dolphin Market a few times a week to pick up any additional items needed.

Hi. I am trying to decide on whether to stay in Cruz or Coral Bay. Are there accessible beaches in Coral Bay and are there places to go at night?

There are not really any beaches right in Coral Bay, but there are some good ones about a twelve or so minute drive away. The same could really be said for many places to stay near Cruz Bay, though.

There are some good restaurants in Coral Bay, like Skinny Legs and Rhumb Lines. That is also where Lime Out (the floating taco bar) is located as well. However, if you are looking for nightlife, Cruz Bay will have much more of that. Many places in Coral Bay tend to close around 8 or 9 pm.

I went to Cinnamon Bay campground 35 years ago on a trip with a group. I remember all 10 of us riding in the back of a red an white stripe canvas covered truck. Was it a taxi service or perhaps there are drivers, like Uber today? What is the availability of someone driving you on the Island rather than renting a car and driving ourselves. Thanks!

My guess is that would’ve been a taxi. The island does not have Uber or Lyft. If you stay in or near Cruz Bay, it’s not too difficult to use a taxi for your transportation, but it gets a little trickier the more remote you get.

Thinking of staying in Coral Bay but not sure if its better to stay higher up for breezes or closer to town to walk to restaurants. Concern about being lower is bugs and less of a breeze. Thoughts?

I wouldn’t factor in walkability too much into your lodging plans. The island is really hilly, and the best accommodations often aren’t an easy walk to restaurants. One of St. John’s best offerings is its views, so I would definitely take advantage of that by booking something a little higher up. Plus, it’s true that the bugs get a bit better with the breeze, and you’d likely need less a/c up there too.

Great information; thank for sharing! For beach activities, would you recommend bringing snorkeling gear (and fins) and beach towels from home or buying on the island?

You’re welcome, and thanks for reading! I would see if the place you’re staying has those items. Most of our vacation rentals have provided chairs and beach towels, and many do also provide snorkel gear, which saves a lot of space in your luggage! If you need to purchase snorkel gear, I recommend purchasing on the island if you can to help support the local businesses 🙂

We had to postpone our 2020 trip and are now rebooked for November 2121😃 We are fully vaccinated. Will a negative Covid 19 test still be required for our visit?

Yay!! As of right now, a negative test (or proof of antibodies) is still required. However, by November things could be completely different. I will keep this post up to date as I hear more 🙂

Do you recommend going at the end of August? What will the weather be like?

The end of August would not be my first choice since this is the thick of hurricane season. Also, many popular restaurants and businesses temporarily close around this time.

However, if you are willing to be flexible, this trip is still possible. Just keep in mind there could be more rain than usual, as well as the possibility of strong tropical storms that could interrupt your trip. Also, one perk: the island likely won’t be very crowded around this time.

THANK YOU!!! My husband and I got married 5/30/21, and I started planning our honeymoon last fall. Your blog was how I planned the entire trip. I knew exactly where to ask for a taxi to get to, I rented the jeep at St. John car rental, we went to high tide, skinny legs, and did the bad kitty to lime out trip. We would not have had such an enjoyable and easy trip without your guidance, so THANK YOU!!

Maria, you are so welcome!! Your kind words truly just made my day 🙂

Thank you… your blog is great!! My kids and I are booked for August 18th would that be cutting it too close to hurricane season?

Thanks Quiana! August is technically within hurricane season, so there is the potential for storms. If you decide to book, just keep your plans as flexible as possible and follow the weather closely as your dates approach. Also, make sure the place you’re staying has a plan in place for you in case a storm does occur suddenly.

Love your blog about St. John. My stay is at St.Thomas in 3/2022. Do you have any information about that island? Love the information about St.John and plan to to visit while there.

Thanks Karen! Yes, I do have some posts about St. Thomas, and have stayed there a few times. I’ll link them below:

– What to do in St Thomas: 14 Ideas for an Awesome Getaway – 5 St. Thomas Beaches That Are Absolutely Stunning

Let me know if there is anything else you’d like to know about St. Thomas!

How is the weather mid October? Thinking of going the 16-23rd. Is that cutting too close to hurricane season?

October is still technically hurricane season. However, by the end of October it’s beginning to wind down and restaurants start to reopen for the year. Therefore, I think you can book a trip during this time, but stay flexible and vigilant in case a storm does pop up.

Hi, I am thinking about Cinnamon Bay Campground in summer 2022. Although that currently is not even a definite possibility, I am hoping things may change in the months to come. Might you have any thoughts about the Cinnamon Bay Campground?

It’s actually starting to look very encouraging! They latest I heard, the Cinnamon Bay Campground is hoping to open in mid-December. So next summer could be a real possibility!

What would you recommend for New Year’s Eve? I’m considering a last minute trip there.

Hi Courtney! St. John is a wonderful NYE destination; however, this is also the island’s busiest week of the year. It will be very difficult to find accommodations at the last minute, and last minute prices will be at a premium. If you are flexible and not very picky, you may be able to find a place to stay (I’d also check on neighboring St. Thomas). However, I recommend booking something close to town (like Cruz Bay on St. John), so that you can taxi around the island. Unfortunately, it is not likely that many rental car options will be available at this point.

Hi!! So happy I stumbled on your blog. Thinking of doing a trip to st Thomas for 3 nights and then 6 nights in St. John early august 2022. We’re a family of 4 with a 5 and 10 year old who love adventure. Is this a good time? And any kid friendly things to do?

Hi Jenny, thank you so much! August is usually an okay time to visit St. John, but there are a couple things to keep in mind. This is within hurricane season in the Caribbean, so you’d need to keep your plans flexible in case a storm pops up. The other item is that many restaurants and boat charters close around this time for the season. I’d recommend coming closer to the beginning of the month to increase the odds of avoiding these issues.

St. John is a great place to visit with kids! Many of the North Shore beaches have very calm waters, and many with good snorkeling. Kids get a kick out of finding sea turtles at Maho Bay. There are also Danish ruins to explore throughout the island, such as right across from Cinnamon Beach. There is also a cute little ice cream shop in town called Irie Pops that is perfect for young children. Hope these suggestions help!

Hi Theresa,

I love your blog! I am planning my trip to St John this Spring. Would you recommend a good car rental company on St. John? Thanks!

Thank you! My go-to car rental companies are St. John Car Rental and Mr. Piper’s Jeeps 🙂

Hello, We will traveling to St John next month. We are all very excited! Do people bring their lunch to the beaches or are there restaurants? We will be taking the open air taxis. Should I pack a soft cooler? Can we drink wine coolers on the beach? Thank you.

Hi there! So excited for you and your upcoming trip! It is super common to pack lunch for the beach, although a few of the beaches do have food for purchase. Trunk Bay has a concession stand with some sandwiches, and Maho Bay has food stalls at Maho Crossroads. Honeymoon Bay also has Bikinis on the Beach, although I think it recently closed temporarily for repairs. You can bring whatever drinks to the beach you want, as long as it’s not in a glass container 🙂

We are staying at the Westin. I hear the beaches like honeymoon and trunk bay are really nice to go over there . Do we need a jeep to drive there or is it best to get a taxi to explore those beaches ? What would you say are the top 2 beaches to go to on the island if we are staying at the Westin . I also wanted to ask where is the nearest grocery store if we want to buy groceries ? Thanks

It will be really easy to get a taxi from the Westin to go to Honeymoon and Trunk Bay, so a rental car is not necessary unless you want to explore beyond Cruz Bay and the North Shore beaches. Trunk Bay, Honeymoon Bay, and Maho Bay are the top three beaches that most people visit. They are gorgeous with nice amenities, but tend to get pretty crowded. Cinnamon Bay is also incredibly gorgeous with easy taxi access, newly rebuilt amenities, and hiking trails in close proximity. The nearest grocery store to the Westin is Starfish Market in Cruz Bay, and has the best selection of groceries on the island.

Hi…so happy I ran across your blog- so incredibly helpful. My husband and I are looking at a trip to St. John and I have a few questions. Where is the best snorkeling at on Coral Bay? Is the reef within swimming distance off shore or is a boat rental required to get to the reef? We are avid snorkelers and tend to spend hours doing it- looking for less crowded areas. Also, what are the mast requirements right now? Is it relaxed or are folks rigid about it. We do not want to go on vacation and be required to wear a mask everywhere we go- so it could be a deal breaker for us until things lighten up. Thanks in advance!

For snorkeling in Coral Bay, I recommend taking a boat to get to all the little coves in Hurricane Hole. Hansen Bay, Francis Bay, and Waterlemon Cay are also known to be good snorkel spots. As far as masks, the rules have recently loosened. They are still required in some places, like on the ferry and at the grocery store, but you largely will not need them at restaurants are bars since almost everything is open air. They continue to not be required on beaches or trails, so you’re good there.

Traveling July 25, 2022- my husband, myself and two 18 year old(all fully vaccinated) are staying in a 3 bedroom Villa located on Maria Bluff. Want to do a day trip to the Baths in Virgin Gorda…I have been told by the rental company- only way to travel is via ferry with the Inter Island Boat services? When we were there in 2002- we booked with a boat charter company with about 10 others on board. Just wondering what you may know about travel to BVI’s (Baths) in 2022.

Hi Julie! Things could change by July, but at this time the rental company is likely correct. The BVI’s have different requirements for entry right now than the USVI’s, which has made it too burdensome for the day sails you reference to run. That said, I’m sure BVI charters are eager to start running again, and will do so the minute rules in the BVI’s relax. For now, I’d either plan on taking the ferry, or hang tight for a month or two to see if the rules change.

We are a family of 5 traveling to St. John this June. This will be our third trip to the island. In past trips, the cost of food at Starfish Market has been very high and since Covid, we are anticipating it to be even higher. What are your thoughts on renting a jeep in St, Thomas in order to do our grocery shopping first before coming over on the car barge? Our 3 daughters are older and will be traveling in a few days after us so we would have the room to fill it up!

Yay for your upcoming trip! If stopping to buy groceries on St. Thomas is convenient for you, then you may save a little money and find a wider selection of products than at St. John grocery stores. I personally haven’t done this, since my husband and I only buy simple items for breakfast and lunch and prefer renting on St. John. However, if you will do a lot of cooking at your vacation rental, then I could see how it may be worth it.

Im so worried now about the checked bags. We leave next week and we paid ahead of time for checked luggage because it was cheaper than carry on for Frontier. I really hope they don’t lose our stuff. We usually only fly Southwest and never have issues but this is our first time to the USVI and they don’t fly there. We also ran into the rental car obstacle. After calling about 100 places we ended up having to rent on St. Thomas and will have to figure out the car barge to St. John. I was really bummed because it seems like one more thing to stress about now trying to ferry a car across. We are staying on the Coral Bay side in a villa so Ill make sure maybe to get our shopping once we get into Cruz Bay, atleast maybe for the first couple days since Im not sure how close the nearest grocery store would be to us. Hoping this trip goes smoothly, starting to really worry.

I wouldn’t stress about the car barge. We have done it many times, and it’s really quite simple. The only difference is there are less ferry times than the regular ferry, so you’ll need to be mindful of that.

Starfish Market is a nice grocery store to stop at in Cruz Bay. However, there is also Dolphin Market in Coral Bay, which is smaller but still has plenty of items.

There have been a lot of issues with checked bags lately, but that doesn’t mean yours will have any problems! It might be good to squeeze a few essentials into your personal item on the plane, just in case. Just breathe! Once you get to the islands, everything will be fine 🙂

Thank you Theresa. I’ll make sure to check out those grocery stores. If you have any other tips for us first timers please let me know 🙂

We are planning a trip in early november. It is our first time on the island and we love snorkeling with our kids, will the weather and water clarity still be good at this time of year. Likely staying at the westin, but also considering a house rental. Thank you for your awesome blog!

Thank you Tracey! Yes, November should be a good time, as it’s past the peak of hurricane season and crowds have net yet picked up for the holidays. Therefore, I would expect the water to be in good condition too.

The Westin is the most popular hotel, but the rooms are more like villas than traditional hotel rooms. There are also plenty of great house rentals all over the island. I recommend finding something with a view! 🙂

My wife and I are going 8/20-25 for my birthday. I have huge FOMO, and I gotta say your article helped me feel a lot better about being able to cover the bases for our first time in the USVI. We will be staying in Estate Lindholm. Would love your recommendation for a handful of must-see beaches, lookout points, etc. I want to get the best photography spots with my Polaroid while I’m here. If I took a charter for a day trip to an island, what would you pick? Can’t wait to hear your feedback, meanwhile I’ll be reading everything else on your site.

Glad to help! Estate Lindholm is in a great location – close to the beaches but also near dining and shops in Cruz Bay. Along North Shore Road are two great lookout points: Trunk Bay and Maho Bay. You could also take the Upper Lind Point Trail (near where you are staying) for views over Cruz Bay. Trunk Bay is the most famous beach (big, gorgeous, lots of amenities), and Maho is a close second (great water for paddle boarding and sea turtles for snorkeling). For less crowds, I personally like Francis and Cinnamon a bit more. Two more hiking paths with great views and ruins at the top: Peace Hill (100 meters uphill) and Cinnamon Bay (3/4 mile uphill). If I could pick one island for a day trip, it would be White Bay on Jost van Dyke (Soggy Dollar Bar) :). One more place with views: Windmill Bar for some cocktails near sunset (although I’d personally prefer watching the sunset from Beach Bar in Cruz Bay). Hope that helps!

We have booked at the Grande Bay but likely will not have a parking spot. Is there an option to park a rental car (from St. Thomas) in Cruz Bay during our meeting p day stay? Following this we have a week stay on St. Thomas. There used to be a parking lot down beyond the baseball field and a pay lot by the police station. Can you please provide suggestions? Thank you.

Hi John. Yes, you will be able to find paid parking in Cruz Bay. We use the Slim Man’s Jeep lot across from Rum Hut, and I think the lot you reference above is still there too.

We are staying in Cruz Bay, how can we get to the hikes and beaches on the other side of the island without a car rental?

You will be able to take a taxi from Cruz Bay. Just arrange a pickup time with your driver for getting back to Cruz Bay, as taxis are more infrequent near some remote hiking trails and cell service can be iffy.

Renting a car is sooo expensive!! Comments on the St John safari type taxis or the Vitran bus system?? We will be staying in the Chocolate Hole area.

Yes, it definitely is! A mixture of the two would probably be best. I haven’t taken the bus, but I’ve heard good things about it. It seems like it would be useful if you are trying to go into either Cruz Bay or Coral Bay, but not so much for getting to the beaches.

Otherwise, taxis are probably the easiest option. It’s best to call the company when needed or pre-arrange a pickup, since I’m not sure how frequently they pass through Chocolate Hole.

St John Taxi Service – 340-693-7530 Paradise Taxi – 340-714-7875

Hi! This has been full of wonderful information. Headed here in a month and not finding much in the way of jeep rentals. We are staying in Cruz bay, do you think we could see most of the beaches and hiking with a taxi? Do you know how much they cost and if we could bring chairs or coolers with us? Thanks for all of the info!

Thanks for your message! Yes, you can easily get to all the main beaches and hiking trails via taxi from Cruz Bay and bring whatever you need. A few beaches do offer chairs and refreshments, including Cinnamon, Trunk, and Honeymoon. Rates run around $10-$15/person depending on where you are going. Here is a schedule: https://www.vinow.com/stjohn/getting_around_stj/taxis-rates/

Does anyone know if National Parks has awarded a contract to any entity to re build Caneel Bay Resort? After 15 years of going there we long to go back. I know it is open for day trips but we want to stay at Caneel overnight. Thanks for any updates you can share

Unfortunately, it does not look like the resort will be rebuilt any time soon. Right now, the NPS is getting ready to begin clean up of contamination caused by the 2017 hurricanes. Here is a recent status update: https://newsofstjohn.com/caneel-bay-part-ii-what-is-this-rue-all-about/

Just an update, today we were able to use a credit card to buy ferry tickets at Red Hook.

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