Things To Do
in Fort St. John
Fort St. John sits along the Peace River in northeastern British Columbia, serving as a regional service hub with a rich oil and gas history and wide-open northern skies. The town blends frontier charm with modern amenities, offering easy access to outdoor adventures and nearby waterways. In summer, long daylight hours invite exploration of parks, rivers, and scenic viewpoints, while winter brings crisp air and remote, serene landscapes ideal for seasonal sports. With a friendly, small-town vibe, Fort St.
John is a practical gateway to the Northern Rockies and Peace Region experiences.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Touch down in Fort St. John and feel the fresh northern air greeting you as you collect your bags. Make your way to your cozy accommodation and settle in with a hot cup of coffee. Step out onto the riverbank for a gentle stroll through Peace River Park, where waves lap softly against the shore.
Head to a local café downtown for a hearty poutine made with regional cheese and gravy, soaking in the friendly chatter of locals. Explore the nearby visitor centre to gather fishing maps and recommendations for hidden river fishing spots. Wander through the park’s winding trails, keeping an eye out for river otters and bald eagles scanning the horizon.
As dusk falls, return to town for a lakeside dinner featuring freshly caught pickerel and roasted vegetables. The sky often glows pink and orange during sunset over the Peace River, offering a mesmerizing photo opportunity. Cap off the evening with a warm campfire by the riverbank, listening to the gentle murmur of water under the starlit sky.
Spend the morning on a guided walking tour through Fort St. John’s historic downtown core, marveling at century-old brick facades. Your guide shares tales of fur traders, early aviation and the Dawson Creek to Alaska highway pioneers. Feel the past come alive as you step into quaint storefronts preserved from the early 20th century.
Grab a gourmet sandwich from a family-run deli and picnic in the shadow of the Grain Elevator Plaza, a symbol of the town’s agricultural roots. Visit the North Peace Museum to examine vintage photographs, indigenous artifacts and gold-rush relics. Stroll through the Peace Museum’s outdoor exhibits, where reconstructed pioneer cabins showcase life on the frontier.
Dine at a cozy bistro specializing in locally foraged mushrooms and game meats, savoring the bold flavors of northern British Columbia. Watch a community theatre performance in a restored heritage hall, where local actors bring regional drama to life. End the night with a moonlit wander past illuminated murals depicting Fort St. John’s unique story.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-5 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🏠1-bedroom apartment (city centre) per month | $900-1,200 |
| 🛒Groceries per month | $250-400 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Wide-open northern landscapes and outdoor access
- Friendly, small-town atmosphere
- Reasonable costs of living and easy access to nature
- Limited nightlife and public transit
- Remote location may mean longer travel times
- Variable winter driving conditions
Places to Visit in Fort St. John
Visit one of these nice places.
Expansive river views at golden hour with natural silhouettes of trees and water reflections.
Calm lake waters and distant mountain silhouettes create classic sunset photography opportunities.
Historic storefronts and wide sidewalks provide a quaint northern-town backdrop for portraits and street photography.
Wooden boardwalk through flat, marshy terrain offering wildlife glimpses and open-water scenery.
Food in Fort St. John
Fort St. John Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Casual burgers featuring local game options and regional toppings—common in many front-porch-style eateries.
Must-Try!
Seasonal seafood options prepared simply to highlight the fish and local flavors.
Indigenous-inspired bread served with soups, stews, or as a snack alongside regional ingredients.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market featuring fresh produce, baked goods, honey, and local crafts from nearby farms and producers.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be mindful of Indigenous land and cultural protocols; ask for permission when photographing people or sacred sites when appropriate.
Be punctual for meetings; respect quiet hours in residential neighborhoods and lodging areas.
Safety
Tipping in Fort St. John
Ensure a smooth experience
In Canada, standard tipping is typically 15–20% at restaurants; rounding up in casual settings is common and appreciated.
Cash, debit, and credit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common in most establishments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Milder days with growing greenery; trails may be muddy during thaw. Wildlife activity begins to pick up, so stay alert on path edges.
Long daylight hours (often 16–19 hours); warm temperatures with occasional heat spikes. Mosquitoes can be active; bring repellent and light clothing.
Cooler temperatures and changing leaves; rain and early snow are possible. Layers and waterproof gear are recommended for outdoor activities.
Cold, snowy conditions with short days; ideal for snowmobiling, skiing, ice fishing, and northern lights when skies are clear.
Fort St. John at Night
Hiking in Fort St. John
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A network of trails around the lake offering scenic viewpoints and forested sections.
Lookout points along the river offering sunset and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Flat loop through muskeg with elevated boardwalks and birdwatching opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Fort St. John by plane.
Main regional gateway offering domestic flights and connections to larger hubs in Canada.
A regional option within a few hours’ drive, serving the broader Northeast BC area with regional flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The region sits on Treaty 8 territory with Dene influences and strong Indigenous cultural presence.
A mix of long-time local residents and newcomers from across Canada and beyond.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A staple winter sport with local leagues and community rinks.
Popular indoor winter activity with local clubs and seasonal events.
Seasonal events reflecting ranching culture in the region.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Fort St. John.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most venues offer vegetarian soups, salads, and veggie-forward dishes; ask for adaptations or daily specials to keep meals meat-free.