Things To Do
in Saint John
Saint John is a port city located in the Canadian province of New Brunswick along the Bay of Fundy. It is known for its rich maritime history and stunning natural landscapes, including the iconic Reversing Falls rapids. The city boasts a vibrant arts and culture scene, with numerous galleries, museums, and theaters to explore.
Saint John is also a gateway to outdoor adventures, offering opportunities for hiking, whale watching, and kayaking in nearby Fundy National Park.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $70 - $120
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the Reversing Falls, watching the incredible tidal changes. Take a guided kayak tour to experience the stunning views of the bay up close.
Visit the New Brunswick Museum to learn about the local history and marine ecosystem. Afterward, enjoy a seafood lunch at a waterfront restaurant.
Stroll through the historic uptown area and admire the architecture. Finish your day with local craft beer at a cozy brewery.
Spend the morning hiking in the Rockwood Park, where trails lead to scenic lookouts and tranquil lakes. Keep an eye out for local wildlife while enjoying the fresh air.
Have a picnic lunch in the park, surrounded by nature. Afterward, rent a bike to explore more trails or visit the lakes for some kayaking.
Relax at the park's beach area and take in the sunset over the lake. Enjoy a casual dinner at a nearby restaurant offering local cuisine.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery with access to the Bay of Fundy.
- Rich history and vibrant culture, including the famous Reversing Falls.
- Affordable cost of living compared to other Canadian cities.
- Friendly and welcoming community atmosphere.
- A variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and whale watching.
- Harsh winters with significant snowfall and cold temperatures.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors.
- Fewer entertainment and cultural offerings compared to larger cities.
- Public transportation options may be limited.
- Potential for economic fluctuations due to reliance on certain industries.
Best Activities in Saint John
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the walking trails, bird-watching areas, and beaches in this beautiful coastal park.
Enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and picnicking in this large urban park that features lakes, trails, and outdoor recreational facilities.
Experience the highest tides in the world, go whale watching, or take a kayak tour in this spectacular natural wonder.
Tours
Uncover the best of Saint John with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Saint John
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of the powerful tides and whirlpools where the Saint John River meets the Bay of Fundy.
Features coastal trails and lookouts that provide panoramic views of the Bay of Fundy and the city skyline.
Provides a vantage point to capture beautiful cityscape and harbor views.
Food in Saint John
Saint John Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty and creamy soup featuring an assortment of fresh seafood such as lobster, scallops, and shrimp, seasoned with local herbs and spices. Must-try at the Saint John City Market or the Wild Caraway Restaurant.
Must-Try!
These tightly coiled, edible fronds of the ostrich fern are a seasonal delicacy, typically sautéed or steamed and served with butter. Available at the Saint John City Market and local farmers' markets.
A popular fast-food dish originating from the East Coast, consisting of spiced meat, onions, tomatoes, and sweet garlic sauce wrapped in a pita. Best enjoyed at King Street Ale House or Taco Pica.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Saint John better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Established in 1876, this historic market is a hub for fresh local produce, seafood, baked goods, and ready-to-eat meals. Visitors can savor various street food offerings like lobster rolls, fish and chips, and maple-flavored treats.
A delightful outdoor market showcasing a diverse selection of organic produce, artisanal cheeses, homemade preserves, and international street food stalls. Ideal for sampling global flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Saint John, it is important to show respect for the Indigenous peoples of the area, including the Wolastoqiyik and Mi'kmaq communities. This includes recognizing their cultural heritage, traditions, and land rights.
Politeness and courtesy are highly valued in Saint John. It is important to greet people with a friendly
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Saint John with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Saint John
Ensure a smooth experience
In Saint John, Canada, tipping is customary in restaurants, bars, and for services such as hairdressers and taxi drivers. A typical tip is 15-20% of the total bill.
In Saint John, Canada, payment is commonly made using credit or debit cards, but cash is also widely accepted. Contactless payment methods are increasingly popular, and most establishments also accept mobile payment options.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Saint John.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Saint John as the weather starts getting warmer and the trees and flowers begin to bloom. It's a great time to explore the outdoors and enjoy the scenic beauty of the city.
Summer is a popular time to visit Saint John due to the warm weather and various outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and whale watching. The city comes alive with festivals and events, making it an exciting time to visit.
Fall in Saint John is characterized by stunning foliage as the leaves change colors. It's a great time for scenic drives and hikes to enjoy the beautiful autumn landscapes. Visitors can also take part in harvest festivals and pumpkin picking.
Winter in Saint John can be cold, but it's a magical time to visit for winter sports enthusiasts. The city offers opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating. Visitors can also experience the festive atmosphere during the holiday season.
Saint John at Night
Hiking in Saint John
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning national park with diverse hiking trails ranging from coastal views to forested paths, perfect for a variety of skill levels.
Located within the city, Rockwood Park offers a network of trails that wind through forests and around lakes, ideal for a quick nature escape.
Features scenic hiking trails with breathtaking views of the Bay of Fundy and opportunities to explore the coastal cliffs.
A coastal conservation area with well-maintained trails that provide beautiful ocean views and rich wildlife observation opportunities.
Further from the city, this park features strenuous hikes that lead to the highest peak in New Brunswick with rewarding panoramic views.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Saint John through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Saint John by plane.
The main airport serving Saint John, New Brunswick offering domestic flights and limited international services.
Located approximately 150 km from Saint John, this airport provides a wider range of international and domestic flights.
About 250 km from Saint John, this is the largest airport in Atlantic Canada and offers numerous international flights.
Located roughly 180 km from Saint John, this airport provides domestic and limited international services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group, primarily of British descent, speaking English as their first language.
A significant community, primarily of Acadian descent, speaking French as their first language.
Includes various First Nations groups, with a rich cultural heritage and community presence.
A diverse demographic group, with populations from various countries, contributing to the multicultural landscape.
Individuals aged 65 and over, comprising a notable portion of the population due to lifestyle and health trends.
Includes children, teenagers, and young adults, representing a vital segment of the local population.
The Soul of Saint John
Discover the essence of Saint John through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Hockey is a hugely popular sport in Saint John, with a strong community following and competitive junior and senior leagues.
Soccer enjoys widespread participation at both youth and adult levels, with various local clubs and leagues.
Baseball is a traditional summer sport in Saint John, featuring local teams and leagues for all age groups.
Rugby is growing in popularity in Saint John, with several clubs offering opportunities for both men and women.
Lacrosse has a dedicated following in Saint John, with youth and adult leagues available for players.
Basketball is played in schools and community leagues throughout Saint John, attracting many young athletes.
There are numerous facilities for swimming, with competitive swim teams and community recreational programs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Saint John.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Saint John's food scene caters well to vegetarians, with many restaurants offering creative plant-based dishes. Notable vegetarian-friendly eateries include Urban Deli and Thandi.
Vegans can find several options in the city, particularly at Urban Deli, where the menu is thoughtfully crafted to provide appealing vegan choices such as lentil burgers and tofu stir-fry.
Saint John boasts a growing awareness of gluten-free dietary needs, with many establishments providing gluten-free alternatives. Billy's Seafood Co. and Britt's Pub & Eatery offer dedicated gluten-free menus.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Saint John with these cultural adventures.
