Top 15 Must-See Attractions in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador

St. John’s, the capital and largest city of the province, holds the distinction of being the oldest city in North America. This historical significance contributes to its rich heritage and critical role in the evolution of Canada. St. John’s stands as a vibrant cultural center, coupled with its historical depth, firmly positioning it among the top ocean-side tourist attractions globally. Furthermore, its unique architectural styles set it apart from other cities in the country.

The city features an array of museums, historic landmarks, and parks alongside breathtaking landscapes. Regardless of your interests, you will undoubtedly discover a wealth of experiences in St. John’s.

Let us delve into the most noteworthy attractions in St. John’s:

1. Immerse Yourself in Culture

Housing the Provincial Art Gallery, the Provincial Museum, and the Provincial Archives, The Rooms is a cultural treasure located on a hill that provides a panoramic view of the city.

A visit to The Rooms allows you to deeply engage with the local culture. Stroll through the Provincial Art Gallery to admire contemporary Canadian art from the post-1960 era.

Explore the Provincial Museum, highlighting the region’s cultural and natural history, and visit the Provincial Archives on the third level, showcasing photographs, fishing documents, British War records, and ship logbooks, among other items.

2. Explore Downtown St. John’s

Downtown St. John’s serves as the historic core as well as one of the most contemporary districts. Its eclectic charm makes it a must-visit for all travelers.

Positioned just north of the harbor, this area is the hub for entertainment, business, and tourism, featuring a wide array of restaurants, hotels, and office buildings.

Experience the vibrant nightlife on George Street or indulge in shopping and dining on Water Street, which is also recognized as a National Historic Site of Canada. Numerous historic landmarks are scattered throughout this urban area.

3. Go as Far East as You Can

Cape Spear, recognized as the easternmost point in North America, is home to the oldest operational lighthouse in the province—the Cape Spear Lighthouse.

This national historic site showcases a distinctive architectural style from its construction period (1836). The lighthouse underwent reconstruction in 1955, preserving its original light source.

Additionally, modifications to the area were made during World War II, traces of which are still evident today. The stunning scenery at this location further adds to its allure.

4. Enjoy a Scenic Drive

Consider renting a vehicle for a picturesque drive along the Killick Coast Trail. This 55-kilometer route initiates in Topsail and proceeds eastward along the southern coastline of Conception Bay, concluding just beyond St. John’s.

As you travel through the town of Paradise, make a stop at Paradise Cove, where you can take a ferry ride to the historic mining hub of Bell Island. The island features dramatic cliffs presenting breathtaking views of Conception Bay.

After returning to Paradise Cove, continue along Route 21 to enjoy more stunning landscapes. This route intersects with Route 20 at Pouch Cove, leading you back to the city via yet another scenic path.

5. Hike Along the Peninsula

The East Coast Trail comprises a network of various coastal pathways located on the Avalon Peninsula, encompassing a total of 26 trails that measure over 300 kilometers combined.

The trails differ in length and difficulty, guiding you through historical communities and unspoiled wilderness. Engage in a remarkable experience by crossing a suspension bridge, traversing a provincial park, and wandering along ecological reserves and breathtaking cliffs.

Prior to commencing your hike, be sure to visit the East Coast Trail website to strategize your journey, selecting trails that align with your preferred difficulty level.

6. Take in the Views

While in Downtown St. John’s, the prominent Signal Hill overlooks the city, becoming one of its most esteemed landmarks.

Ascend to the top of the hill to revel in the spectacular views encompassing both the city and the ocean. Be sure to explore the 19th-century Cabot Tower, positioned at the summit of the hill.

Signal Hill also features the Signal Hill Tattoo, including reenactors who don uniforms from 1795, showcasing drills and battle techniques.

7. Visit Canada’s Second Largest Church

Upon its completion, the Basilica-Cathedral of St. John the Baptist was the nation’s largest church, now recognized as Canada’s second largest.

Construction was finalized in 1855 to signify Roman Catholicism in Newfoundland. This beautiful Lombard Romanesque-style basilica features the Carrara marble sculpture ‘The Dead Christ’ by Irish sculptor John Hogan, the two-ton St. John Bell, and an impressive pipe organ added in 1955.

Within the Basilica Residence, a museum exhibits religious art, historic artifacts from the basilica, and furniture that once adorned the residence rooms. Photographs of the bishops and archbishops of St. John’s are also on display.

8. Spend Time in a Park

Among the parks within the city, Bowring Park is arguably the most picturesque. Nestled in the Waterford Valley neighborhood in the city’s west end, the park is a tranquil retreat.

A notable feature is the Peter Pan sculpture at its entrance, a replica of the original statue located in Kensington Gardens, London, England.

Visitors can discover numerous other statues while wandering the park, which is also home to tennis courts, a playground, and a swimming pool.

9. Learn About the History of the Newfoundland Railway

Located in the historic terminal of the Newfoundland Railway, the Railway Coastal Museum opened its doors in 2003, offering exhibits that detail the lineage of the Newfoundland Railway and coastal boat services.

This museum showcases models, posters, maps, and paintings reflecting the province’s transportation history, including a model of a 1940s passenger train.

Additionally, children are welcome to explore a dedicated area within the Museum, engaging with model trains, embarking on scavenger hunts, and enjoying interactive Lego exhibits.

10. Visit Wine Vaults

Unbeknownst to many, behind the front façade of 436 Water Street lie two impressive brick and stone vaulted wine cellars—the Newman Wine Vaults, originating from as far back as 1679.

A Portuguese vessel carrying port wine found refuge here after evading privateers en route to England. Stored in caves through winter, the wine gained remarkable smoothness and flavor.

The Newman Wine Vaults eventually transformed into an aging facility for Portuguese port. Today, visitors can tour the vaults and sample exquisite port wine.

11. Take a Boat Tour

Visit the pier in Downtown St. John’s to embark on an exceptional boat tour. Witness icebergs, seabirds, and whales while exploring the Atlantic waters.

Navigate through ‘The Narrows’ toward Cape Spear, passing by Cabot Tower en route. This aquatic region is recognized for hosting the largest concentration of humpback whales globally!

Your journey may also include encounters with 12,000-year-old icebergs and observances of seabirds, including the Atlantic Puffin. Typical boat tours last approximately two hours, departing at 9:30 am, 1:00 pm, 4:00 pm, and 7:00 pm.

12. Take the Kids to a Geological Centre

The Johnson Geo Centre, predominantly situated underground within an excavated glacial formation on Signal Hill, offers an enriching experience for children to learn about geology and outer space.

This center features a range of attractions, including an impressive solar system installation, the Titanic Story, a theater with a rock wall, and simulated lava flows. There’s even a 3D cinema!

Hibernia KidsPlace hosts engaging activities specifically designed for children, providing opportunities to walk through a volcanic formation, examine fossils, and venture to the moon in an interactive setting.

13. Run a Marathon

Each year, over 4,800 athletes participate in the Tely 10 Mile Road Race, which occurs annually on the fourth Sunday of July.

This marathon stands as one of the oldest in Canada, with its inaugural race held in 1922. It is sponsored by The Telegram, a local newspaper that has been in circulation since 1879.

The Tely 10 Mile Road Race commences on McNamara Road in Paradise and concludes at Bannerman Park, drawing participants across its illustrious course.

14. Mingle with Locals at a Festival

The welcoming nature of St. John’s residents makes their festivals a vibrant experience for visitors. Engage with the locals and immerse yourself in the lively festivities.

Festivals abound throughout the year, with the Newfoundland and Labrador Folk Festival, Royal St. John’s Regatta, and Nickel Independent Film Festival standing out as particularly notable events.

Other remarkable celebrations include the St. John’s International Women’s Film Festival for enthusiasts of independent films produced by women, and various local events such as the George Street Festival, the Victoria Park Lantern Festival, the Festival of New Dance, and Mardi Gras.

15. Try the Local Cuisine

In St. John’s, fish holds a significant place in the local culture, thus making it a staple in the cuisine. Popular dishes include battered cod and fish-and-brewis, along with lobster, crab, and mussels.

For meat enthusiasts, a quintessential dish to sample is Jiggs’ Dinner, which comprises salt beef accompanied by root vegetables and cabbage. Other must-try dishes include moose pie, caribou sausage, and rabbit stew.

Moreover, those with a penchant for sweets should not miss out on delights from Purity Factories, renowned for its cream crackers, spearmint nobs, and peanut butter kisses.