Summary
Situated on the island of Newfoundland, St. John’s ranks among the most captivating cities along the Atlantic coast. It combines an intriguing history, breathtaking natural landscapes, and the warm hospitality that Canada is known for. Moreover, the city is filled with an abundance of engaging activities and attractions, both within and around St. John’s.
While it is smaller than major cities like Toronto and Vancouver, its charm sets it apart. Its tranquil atmosphere makes it an ideal destination for a holiday or city escape, free from the stress and busyness of larger urban centers.
We thoroughly enjoyed our time in St. John’s and throughout the stunning landscapes of Newfoundland.
To facilitate your exploration (and minimize the burden of planning), here are some of the most noteworthy activities and sites to visit in St. John’s during your journey to Newfoundland. Enjoy your visit to Canada.
1.) Cape Spear Lighthouse National Historic Site
With a legacy spanning nearly 200 years, the Cape Spear Lighthouse is a must-see when visiting the broader St. John’s area.
Readily accessible by car with ample parking, the lighthouse serves as an exceptional destination for exploration on a sunny day. Notably, this location also includes the easternmost point of North America.
However, be sure to bring layers, as wind can be significant along the trails during certain seasons. Additionally, always stick to marked paths and refrain from venturing too close to the cliffs; after all, safety is paramount.
2.) Quidi Vidi
Located on the western side of the city, Quidi Vidi is ideal for a leisurely walk around the lake or to explore the harbor. Its charm is undeniable.
Although small, it provides a delightful location for a lunch break (food is always a consideration). While here, don’t miss the opportunity to dine at Mallard Cottage, a truly enchanting venue which I would consider one of our top dining experiences in the entire city.
Inside the cottage, be sure to try some of the seasonal offerings, which are delightful. And reserve room for dessert, as the options are equally tempting.
Should you still have energy, consider hiking the Sugarloaf Path for scenic views and a visit to the Artisan Studios for unique local gifts. We devoted an entire afternoon in this charming area of St. John’s and thoroughly appreciated it.
3.) Hike the East Coast Trail
First and foremost, remember to wear appropriate hiking footwear when visiting St. John’s. If you have a passion for the outdoors, the entire island of Newfoundland offers breathtaking landscapes waiting to be discovered. It is important to note that the island is expansive, requiring several months to explore fully.
This is why identifying specific locations and experiences to prioritize while exploring St. John’s is essential. One prime destination is the East Coast Trail, which ranks among the top activities in St. John’s, especially for those looking to escape the urban environment in favor of stunning natural scenery.
With numerous segments available for hiking, selecting the ideal one can seem overwhelming. The positive aspect is that every section is absolutely stunning, offering magnificent views of the broader region.
Best of all, the East Coast Trail features trails that accommodate various fitness levels.
4.) Puffin and Whale Watching
We thoroughly enjoyed this experience!
Following a day in St. John’s, consider joining the Gatherall’s puffin and whale-watching tours. Once you embark on the boat, knowledgeable and amicable guides will assist you in spotting the various local wildlife inhabiting the area.
We had an incredible tour and were able to observe numerous puffins. Additionally, there’s a good chance of spotting magnificent whales that frequent the coastal waters.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even learn the tradition of ‘screeching in’, a fun part of Gatherall’s experience. The entire excursion was delightful and stands as one of the most memorable activities in St. John’s worth exploring beyond the city limits.
If you prefer a lengthier tour of the broader St. John’s area, consider engaging a photography tour led by Maurice from Far East Photography.
He is a local expert knowledgeable about the best scenic spots and breathtaking views. We cherished this experience.
5.) Basilica of St. John the Baptist
This ornate and exquisite Basilica offers one of the most remarkable architectural experiences in St. John’s.
As the oldest national historic site in the city, it is highly recommended to take a moment to appreciate the 60 stained glass windows and the overall beauty of this landmark.
Constructed in 1847, the Basilica showcases stunning architecture. Although it has endured some damage, it remains a noteworthy location to visit.
You can effortlessly spend 15-20 minutes here, embarking on a self-guided exploration of the site, which is worthwhile if you are in the vicinity.
Subsequently, consider dining at Chinched. We truly relished our meal, particularly the charcuterie and Merasheen Bay oysters, as well as the unexpectedly delightful crispy pig ears.
6.) Visit the Harbor (and Water Street)
On your first day in St. John’s, it is almost essential to wander through the historic streets of the city and familiarize yourself with the area.
For us, the Harbor and Water Street serve as a fantastic area to discover, particularly at lunchtime, with the abundance of local eateries.
Ensure you allow time to explore the South Side and consider setting up a tour with NL Boat Tours, which enables exploration of extensive regions along the east coast of Newfoundland.
Afterwards, make time to visit Cape St. Francis, Pouch Cove, and Flatrock, each offering picturesque spots for exploration.
7.) Signal Hill National Historic Site
A visit to Signal Hill ranks among the premier activities to undertake during your time in St. John’s. It enables insight into the historic significance of the Signal Hill National Historic Site and provides an opportunity to hike up to the Cabot Tower.
Additionally, the North Head Trail offers scenic views encircling St. John’s Harbour, providing an opportunity to potentially see icebergs during specific times of the year.
Prepare for some steep steps as you hike to the tower.
8.) Fort Amherst
Located on the opposite side of the harbor from Signal Hill, Fort Amherst is certainly worthy of a visit while you explore the waterfront.
The breathtaking views allow you to spot grand icebergs (notably prevalent in late May and early June).
Moreover, you can access the East Coast Trail directly from this location, which is exceptionally convenient.
9.) Salmoners Nature Park
While not located directly in St. John’s, Salmoners Nature Park is a worthwhile destination situated outside the city for an afternoon visit. The park’s beautiful boardwalk is highly recommended for a summer stroll.
The loop is approximately 3.5 kilometers and takes about two hours to complete. While walking, you may also encounter various resident species inhabiting the landscape.
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