Saint John’s

Top 10 Best Activities in St. John’s, Canada

1. Signal Hill National Historic Site: This iconic landmark offers panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and a glimpse into Newfoundland’s rich history.
   • Approx Price: CAD 12 (Adult), CAD 10 (Senior), Free (Youth 17 and under) (Approximately $9, $7.50, and Free)
   • Opening hours: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm
   • www.pc.gc.ca
2. Cape Spear Lighthouse National Historic Site: The easternmost point in Canada, featuring the oldest surviving lighthouse in Newfoundland and Labrador.
   • Approx Price: CAD 7.90 (Adult), CAD 6.60 (Senior), Free (Youth 17 and under) (Approximately $6, $5, and Free)
   • Opening hours: 9:30 am to 5:30 pm
   • www.pc.gc.ca
3. The Rooms: A cultural facility housing the Provincial Art Gallery, Museum, and Archives, showcasing Newfoundland and Labrador’s history and art.
   • Approx Price: CAD 10 (Adult), CAD 5 (Senior/Student), Free (Under 5) (Approximately $7.50, $3.75, and Free)
   • Opening hours: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, Wednesdays until 9:00 pm
   • www.therooms.ca
4. George Street: Famous for its vibrant nightlife, this street is lined with pubs and bars, often featuring live music.
   • Approx Price: Free to explore, costs vary in establishments
   • Opening hours: Varied by establishment
5. East Coast Trail: Offers a range of hiking trails along the scenic coastline, perfect for experiencing Newfoundland’s natural beauty.
   • Approx Price: Free (Donations welcome)
   • Opening hours: 24/7
   • www.eastcoasttrail.com
6. Johnson Geo Centre: A geological interpretation center built into an ancient rock formation, offering interactive exhibits about Earth’s history.
   • Approx Price: CAD 12 (Adult), CAD 7 (Child) (Approximately $9 and $5.25)
   • Opening hours: 9:30 am to 5:00 pm
   • www.geocentre.ca
7. Quidi Vidi Village: A historic fishing village known for its quaint houses, artisan studios, and the Quidi Vidi Brewery.
   • Approx Price: Free to visit, brewery tour prices vary
   • Opening hours: Varied by business
   • www.quidividibrewery.ca
8. Bowring Park: A beautiful urban park offering various recreational facilities, including walking trails, a swimming pool, and a duck pond.
   • Approx Price: Free (small fee for pool)
   • Opening hours: 5:00 am to midnight
9. Railway Coastal Museum: Housed in the historic Newfoundland Railway station, this museum tells the story of 150 years of railroading and coastal boating history.
   • Approx Price: CAD 7 (Adult), CAD 4 (Student/Senior), CAD 3 (Child) (Approximately $5.25, $3, $2.25)
   • Opening hours: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
   • www.railwaycoastalmuseum.ca
10. MUN Botanical Garden: A part of Memorial University, these gardens offer nature trails, flower gardens, and a variety of plant species.
    • Approx Price: CAD 7 (Adult), CAD 5 (Senior/Student), Free (Children under 5) (Approximately $5.25, $3.75, and Free)
    • Opening hours: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
    • www.mun.ca

St. John’s, with its rich maritime history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural landscapes, offers a unique blend of experiences for visitors to enjoy.

Top 10 Best Restaurants in St. John’s, Canada

1. Raymonds: Widely acclaimed as one of Canada’s finest restaurants, Raymonds offers exquisite fine dining with a focus on local Newfoundland ingredients.
   • Location: 95 Water St
   • Price range: $$$$ (Luxury)
   • raymondsrestaurant.com
2. Mallard Cottage: Set in a charmingly restored 18th-century cottage, this eatery serves up creative local cuisine, embracing Newfoundland’s culinary traditions.
   • Location: 8 Barrows Rd
   • Price range: $$$ (High-priced)
   • mallardcottage.ca
3. Merchant Tavern: Known for its vibrant atmosphere and focus on sustainable seafood and local produce, offering a modern take on traditional dishes.
   • Location: 291 Water St
   • Price range: $$-$$$ (Moderate to High-priced)
   • themerchanttavern.ca
4. Adelaide Oyster House: A lively spot known for its excellent seafood, particularly oysters, and innovative small plates.
   • Location: 334 Water St
   • Price range: $$ (Moderate)
5. Chinched Bistro: Offers a contemporary dining experience with a menu that highlights local meats and charcuterie, alongside creative dishes.
   • Location: 5 Bates Hill
   • Price range: $$-$$$ (Moderate to High-priced)
   • chinched.com
6. Rocket Bakery and Fresh Food: Known for its delightful bakery, casual café fare, and cozy atmosphere, a great spot for a quick bite or coffee.
   • Location: 272 Water St
   • Price range: $ (Budget-friendly)
   • rocketfood.ca
7. Oliver’s Restaurant: A long-standing favorite in the city, offering a fine dining experience with a mix of local and international cuisine.
   • Location: 160 Water St
   • Price range: $$$ (High-priced)
   • olivers-cafe.com
8. Piatto Pizzeria + Enoteca: A charming place known for its authentic Neapolitan pizzas and a great selection of wines.
   • Location: 377 Duckworth St
   • Price range: $$ (Moderate)
   • piattopizzeria.com
9. The Gypsy Tea Room: Offers a delightful mix of European and Newfoundland cuisine, set in an elegant and cozy setting.
   • Location: 315 Water St
   • Price range: $$ (Moderate)
   • thegypsytearoom.com
10. Fixed Coffee & Baking: A popular café known for its excellent coffee, fresh baked goods, and a selection of healthy, light meals.
    • Location: 183 Duckworth St
    • Price range: $ (Budget-friendly)

St. John’s culinary scene reflects a mix of traditional Newfoundland flavors and contemporary cuisine. The city’s restaurants often feature locally-sourced seafood and other ingredients, providing a unique dining experience. Be sure to check the latest reviews or updates for any changes in operations or offerings.

Top 10 Best Bars & Pubs in St. John’s, Canada

1. Yellowbelly Brewery & Public House
   • A vibrant brewery known for its craft beers and upscale pub fare, set in a historic building.
   • Location: 288 Water St, St. John’s, NL, Canada
2. Duke of Duckworth
   • A classic English-style pub famous for its fish and chips and cozy atmosphere.
   • Location: 325 Duckworth St, St. John’s, NL, Canada
3. O’Reilly’s Irish Newfoundland Pub
   • A lively spot known for its traditional live music, Newfoundland charm, and great selection of beers.
   • Location: 13 George St, St. John’s, NL, Canada
4. The Ship Pub
   • An iconic venue for live music and entertainment, offering a variety of local beers and spirits.
   • Location: 265 Duckworth St, St. John’s, NL, Canada
5. Bridie Molloy’s Irish Pub
   • A traditional Irish pub with a warm ambiance, serving a range of beers and classic pub food.
   • Location: 5 George St, St. John’s, NL, Canada
6. The Black Sheep on George
   • Known for its nightlife and live entertainment, this pub serves a variety of craft beers and cocktails.
   • Location: 164 Water St, St. John’s, NL, Canada
7. Green Sleeves Uptown
   • A popular pub with a casual vibe, offering a wide range of drinks, pub grub, and live music performances.
   • Location: 14 George St, St. John’s, NL, Canada
8. Quidi Vidi Brewery
   • Nestled in the picturesque Quidi Vidi village, this brewery is known for its unique location and variety of local craft beers.
   • Location: 35 Barrows Rd, St. John’s, NL, Canada
9. Christian’s Bar
   • A historic pub offering a wide selection of beers and spirits, known for its friendly atmosphere.
   • Location: 23 George St, St. John’s, NL, Canada
10. Erin’s Pub
    • One of the oldest pubs in the city, Erin’s is renowned for its traditional Newfoundland music and laid-back vibe.
    • Location: 186 Water St, St. John’s, NL, Canada

These establishments offer a mix of traditional pub experiences, craft beers, and local culture, making them great stops during your visit to St. John’s. Always check the latest reviews or contact the bars for the most current information regarding their hours and offerings.

Top Rooftop and Elevated Spots in St. John’s, Canada

St. John’s, known for its colorful row houses and maritime charm, offers some excellent elevated spots, though traditional rooftop venues might be less common.

1. The Rooms Café: Located in The Rooms cultural facility, it offers a stunning view of downtown St. John’s and the harbor.
   • Location: 9 Bonaventure Ave, St. John’s, NL
2. Blue on Water: This restaurant and bar offers a sophisticated ambiance with excellent views from its upper floors.
   • Location: 319 Water St, St. John’s, NL
3. Signal Hill National Historic Site: Not a dining venue, but it offers some of the best views of St. John’s and the surrounding area.
   • Location: Signal Hill Rd, St. John’s, NL
4. Bannerman Brewing Co.: A popular brewery with a great atmosphere, offering views of the bustling streets from its upper-level seating.
   • Location: 90 Duckworth St, St. John’s, NL
5. Piatto Pizzeria + Enoteca: While it’s not a rooftop, it’s an elevated venue with great views and amazing pizza.
   • Location: 377 Duckworth St, St. John’s, NL
6. The Merchant Tavern: Offers a view of the vibrant Water Street. The upper floor seating provides a nice overlook.
   • Location: 291 Water St, St. John’s, NL
7. The Lookout Bar: Although more focused on nightlife, it offers a great view of the city, especially in the evening.
   • Location: 2 Carew St, St. John’s, NL
8. Quidi Vidi Brewery: Located near the iconic Quidi Vidi Lake, this brewery offers scenic views in a quaint village setting.
   • Location: 35 Barrows Rd, St. John’s, NL
9. Mallard Cottage: An eatery in a beautifully restored cottage, offering views of the picturesque Quidi Vidi Village.
   • Location: 8 Barrows Rd, St. John’s, NL
10. Yellowbelly Brewery & Public House: A historic building with upper floors that provide a nice view of one of the oldest streets in North America.
    • Location: 288 Water St, St. John’s, NL

Remember to check the latest information and operational status of these venues before planning a visit, as circumstances and hours of operation can change.

Top 10 Best Museums in St. John’s, Canada

1. The Rooms: Newfoundland and Labrador’s largest public cultural space, combining a museum, art gallery, and archives.
   • Approx Price: CAD 10.00 | ~$7.50 USD
   • therooms.ca
2. Johnson GEO CENTRE: A geologically-focused museum set into Signal Hill, with exhibits on earth sciences, oil and gas exploration, and the history of the Titanic.
   • Approx Price: CAD 12.00 | ~$9.00 USD
   • geocentre.ca
3. Railway Coastal Museum: Housed in the historic Newfoundland Railway station, this museum tells the story of the province’s railway and coastal boat services.
   • Approx Price: CAD 7.00 | ~$5.25 USD
   • railwaycoastalmuseum.ca
4. Newman Wine Vaults Provincial Historic Site: Offering a unique glimpse into the history of wine storage and aging in St. John’s.
   • Approx Price: CAD 6.00 | ~$4.50 USD
5. Quidi Vidi Village Plantation: An artisan village that serves as a space for local craftspeople to create and sell their works, offering a living museum experience.
   • Approx Price: Free Entry
   • quidividivillageplantation.com
6. Logy Bay-Middle Cove-Outer Cove Museum: A community museum that provides insights into the rural life and cultural history of the area.
   • Approx Price: Free Entry; donations welcome
7. Admiralty House Communications Museum: An interactive museum set in a historic building, focusing on naval history and communications.
   • Approx Price: CAD 5.00 | ~$3.75 USD
   • admiraltymuseum.ca
8. Cape Spear Lighthouse National Historic Site: The oldest surviving lighthouse in Newfoundland and Labrador, offering historical exhibits and stunning views.
   • Approx Price: CAD 7.90 | ~$6.00 USD
   • pc.gc.ca
9. James J. O’Mara Pharmacy Museum: A small museum that recreates an early 20th-century pharmacy, showcasing historical medical and pharmaceutical tools.
   • Approx Price: Free Entry; donations welcome
10. Basilica Cathedral Museum: Located in the Basilica Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, this museum displays religious art and artifacts.
    • Approx Price: Free Entry; donations welcome

Note: Prices and website links are approximations and should be verified for the most current information.

Top 10 Best Shopping Areas in St. John’s, Canada

1. Water Street: As one of the oldest streets in North America, Water Street is lined with a variety of shops, boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants.
2. Avalon Mall: The largest shopping mall in Newfoundland and Labrador, offering a wide range of retail stores, a food court, and entertainment options.
3. Duckworth Street: Known for its unique local boutiques, art galleries, and eateries, Duckworth Street provides a more eclectic shopping experience.
4. Signal Hill Crafts and Souvenirs: Near the iconic Signal Hill, this area is great for picking up local crafts and Newfoundland souvenirs.
5. The Village Shopping Centre: A convenient shopping location with a variety of stores, services, and a supermarket.
6. St. John’s Farmers’ Market: Open on weekends, it’s a vibrant spot to purchase local produce, artisan foods, crafts, and unique gifts.
7. Posie Row & Co: A collective of small local shops offering a range of products from clothing and jewelry to home decor and gifts.
8. Historic Quidi Vidi Village: A charming area with small shops and studios, especially known for the Quidi Vidi Brewery and local artisans.
9. Churchill Square: A pleasant outdoor shopping area with a selection of shops, services, and dining options.
10. The Rooms Museum Gift Shop: For uniquely Newfoundland gifts and crafts, the gift shop at The Rooms is an excellent choice.

St. John’s offers a mix of traditional shopping malls, historic streets with characterful boutiques, and special spots for local arts and crafts.

Top 10 Best Events in St. John’s, Canada

1. Royal St. John’s Regatta: August – North America’s oldest annual sporting event, featuring boat races on Quidi Vidi Lake and various onshore festivities.
2. George Street Festival: Late July/Early August – A popular event featuring live music and entertainment on the famous George Street, known for its lively bar and pub scene.
3. Newfoundland and Labrador Folk Festival: August – A celebration of traditional music, dance, and crafts, showcasing local and national folk artists in Bannerman Park.
4. St. John’s International Women’s Film Festival: October – One of the longest-running women’s film festivals in the world, highlighting works by women in film and television.
5. Mummers Festival: December – A unique local tradition where people dress in disguise and visit homes in the community, culminating in a colourful parade.
6. East Coast Music Awards: Dates vary – A prestigious event celebrating and showcasing the best in East Coast music.
7. St. John’s Pride Week: July – A week-long celebration of the LGBTQ+ community, featuring parades, performances, and events promoting inclusivity and diversity.
8. Buskers Festival: August – An entertaining festival where street performers from around the world showcase their talents in downtown St. John’s.
9. St. John’s International CircusFest: September – A relatively new event, it brings together local and international circus artists for performances, workshops, and networking.
10. Signal Hill Tattoo: July and August – A historical reenactment at the iconic Signal Hill, featuring the Royal Newfoundland Regiment of Foot 1795.

These events offer a glimpse into the diverse and lively culture of St. John’s, providing both residents and visitors with a range of experiences from traditional folklore to modern music and film. It’s advisable to check the specific dates and details for each event, as they can change from year to year.

Top 10 Best Areas in St. John’s, Canada

1. Downtown St. John’s: The vibrant heart of the city, known for its colorful row houses, lively Water Street with shops and restaurants, and the bustling nightlife on George Street. It’s also home to landmarks like Signal Hill and the Rooms museum.
2. Signal Hill: A historic area offering panoramic views of the city and the Atlantic Ocean. It’s a popular spot for hiking and picnics, and the Signal Hill National Historic Site is a must-visit for its cultural significance.
3. Quidi Vidi: A charming fishing village within the city, known for its picturesque lake, the historic Quidi Vidi Brewery, and beautiful walking trails. It’s a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle.
4. Rennie’s River: A residential area centered around the scenic Rennie’s River Trail. It’s known for its beautiful walking paths, close proximity to the city center, and the nearby Rennie’s Mill River Park.
5. Georgestown: One of the oldest neighborhoods in St. John’s, Georgestown is known for its quaint streets, historic homes, and friendly community. It’s close to downtown but maintains a quiet, residential atmosphere.
6. Churchill Square: A commercial and residential area near Memorial University, known for its shopping center, restaurants, and proximity to both the university and downtown.
7. Kenmount Terrace: A newer residential development that’s popular among families. It offers modern amenities, parks, and easy access to shopping areas like the Avalon Mall.
8. The Battery: Located at the base of Signal Hill, The Battery is famed for its steep streets and unique positioning between the cliffs and the harbor. It offers a distinctive living experience with spectacular views.
9. Mount Pearl: Technically a separate city but often considered part of the greater St. John’s area, Mount Pearl is a family-friendly community with its own set of amenities, parks, and recreational facilities.
10. Pleasantville: Situated near Quidi Vidi Lake, Pleasantville is undergoing significant development. It’s known for its mix of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces, including the new Bannerman Park.

St. John’s, with its mix of urban and scenic beauty, offers a variety of neighborhoods catering to different lifestyles and preferences. From the historic charm of downtown to the serene, family-friendly suburbs, each area presents a unique aspect of life in Newfoundland and Labrador’s capital.

Top 5 Best Activities for Kids in St. John’s

1. The Rooms: Newfoundland and Labrador’s largest public cultural space, combining a museum, art gallery, and archives. It offers educational and interactive exhibits that are great for kids, including history and natural science displays.
   • Approx Price: 10 CAD for adults, 5 CAD for children (about $7.50 for adults, $3.75 for children)
   • Google Maps Link
2. Bowring Park: A beautiful and expansive park with duck ponds, walking trails, playgrounds, and a swimming pool. The park is also home to a famous Peter Pan statue, which is a delight for children.
   • Approx Price: Free entry
   • Google Maps Link
3. Johnson GEO Centre: A geological interpretation center located on Signal Hill, it provides an educational and fun experience with hands-on exhibits about the earth, space, and Newfoundland’s geological history.
   • Approx Price: 12 CAD for adults, 7 CAD for children (about $9 for adults, $5.25 for children)
   • Google Maps Link
4. East Coast Trail: Offering numerous hiking trails along the coastline, these trails provide family-friendly outdoor adventures with stunning ocean views, wildlife sightings, and the chance to explore the natural beauty of the area.
   • Approx Price: Free entry, but donations are appreciated
   • Google Maps Link
5. Pippy Park: One of Canada’s largest urban parks, it features extensive walking and hiking trails, camping facilities, a golf course, and during winter, opportunities for skiing and snowshoeing.
   • Approx Price: Free entry for park; activities like camping and golf have separate fees
   • Google Maps Link

Top 5 Best Places to Visit in the Region of St. John’s, Canada

1. Signal Hill National Historic Site: A landmark offering panoramic views of St. John’s and the Atlantic Ocean. It’s a great spot for hiking and learning about the area’s military history.
   • Distance from St. John’s: 3 km (1.8 miles)
   • Approx Price: Entry is free; guided tours may have a fee
   • Google Maps
2. Cape Spear Lighthouse National Historic Site: The easternmost point in North America, featuring the oldest surviving lighthouse in Newfoundland and Labrador, with stunning coastal scenery.
   • Distance from St. John’s: 13 km (8 miles)
   • Approx Price: Entry fee around CAD 7.90 (about $6)
   • Google Maps
3. The East Coast Trail: Offering over 300 km of coastal hiking, this trail provides access to a series of rugged cliffs, fjords, and scenic viewpoints.
   • Distance from St. John’s: Various starting points around the city
   • Approx Price: Free, donations welcome
   • Google Maps
4. Bowring Park: A popular park in St. John’s, offering picturesque duck ponds, walking trails, and a variety of statues, including the famous Peter Pan statue.
   • Distance from St. John’s: 6 km (3.7 miles)
   • Approx Price: Free
   • Google Maps
5. Quidi Vidi Village: A charming and historic fishing village within St. John’s, known for its unique character, artisanal breweries, and scenic location by a small lake and the ocean.
   • Distance from St. John’s: 5 km (3 miles)
   • Approx Price: Free to explore; costs for dining/brewery visits vary
   • Google Maps

How many days is enough for St. John’s?

St. John’s, the capital city of Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, is known for its vibrant colored houses, rich maritime history, and as the easternmost point in North America. To fully experience the charm and attractions of St. John’s, a stay of 2 to 3 days is typically recommended. Here’s how to make the most of your visit:

1. City Exploration and Historical Sites (1 day):

• Signal Hill National Historic Site: Offers panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and is a key site in the city’s military and communications history.
• Jellybean Row Houses: The iconic colorful row houses are a must-see and great for photo opportunities.
• The Rooms: A cultural facility hosting a museum, art gallery, and archives, showcasing Newfoundland and Labrador’s history and art.
• Downtown and Waterfront: Explore the shops, restaurants, and historic buildings along Water Street and Duckworth Street.

2. Nature and Scenic Views (1 day):

• Cape Spear Lighthouse National Historic Site: The most easterly point in North America, offering stunning ocean views and a historic lighthouse.
• East Coast Trail: Offers a range of hiking options with breathtaking coastal scenery, sea stacks, and possibly iceberg and whale sightings.
• Boat Tours: Consider a boat tour to experience the coastline from the water, with opportunities to see marine wildlife and icebergs (seasonal).

3. Cultural Immersion and Leisure (1 day, optional):

• George Street: Known for its vibrant nightlife, with numerous pubs and restaurants offering live music and local seafood.
• Quidi Vidi Village: A picturesque fishing village within the city, ideal for a relaxing stroll and home to the famous Quidi Vidi Brewery.
• Local Festivals and Events: Depending on the timing of your visit, you might catch one of St. John’s many festivals or cultural events.

St. John’s can be comfortably explored over a weekend, but having an extra day allows for a more leisurely pace and the opportunity to delve deeper into its cultural offerings or to explore the natural beauty just outside the city. The weather can be unpredictable, so having a flexible itinerary is beneficial. Each season offers a different experience, from iceberg viewing in the spring to vibrant cultural festivals in the summer.

Best Time to Visit St. John’s, Canada

St. John’s, the capital city of Newfoundland and Labrador in Canada, is known for its colorful row houses, vibrant cultural scene, and rich maritime history. The best time to visit St. John’s is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warmest, and the city is bustling with outdoor activities, festivals, and tourist attractions. However, each season in St. John’s offers its unique charm and set of experiences.

Weather

• Summer (June to August): Mild to warm with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C. This is the best time for hiking, whale watching, and enjoying the local festivals.
• Autumn (September to October): Cooler with vibrant fall colors. Temperatures range from 5°C to 15°C. The tourist crowd thins out, providing a more relaxed atmosphere.
• Winter (November to April): Cold and snowy, with temperatures often below freezing, ranging from -10°C to 0°C. Ideal for winter sports enthusiasts and experiencing a traditional Canadian winter.
• Spring (May): Cool and sometimes unpredictable weather with temperatures between 0°C to 10°C. The landscape begins to bloom, and tourist activity starts to pick up.

Peak Season

The peak season in St. John’s is during the summer, especially in July and August. This is when the city sees the most visitors, attracted by the pleasant weather and the numerous outdoor activities and cultural events.

Off-Peak Season

Winter, from November to April, is the off-peak season in St. John’s. During this period, there are fewer tourists, and the city is draped in a blanket of snow, offering a different kind of beauty and a quieter experience.

Conclusion

Summer is the ideal time to visit St. John’s for those who want to experience the city’s vibrant cultural scene and outdoor beauty in the most comfortable weather conditions. Autumn and spring offer a quieter but equally rewarding experience with fewer tourists and a unique natural charm. Winter, while cold, presents an authentic Canadian winter experience with opportunities for snow-related activities. No matter the season, St. John’s offers a warm welcome with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and friendly locals.

Best Transportation Options in St. John’s, Canada

St. John’s, the capital city of Newfoundland and Labrador, is known for its vibrant colored row houses, rich history, and close proximity to natural attractions. The city offers various transportation options for navigating both the urban area and the scenic surroundings. Here are some effective ways to get around St. John’s:

1. Metrobus Transit: This is the main public transportation service in St. John’s, with routes covering the city and some suburbs. While the network isn’t extensive, it serves major areas and is a cost-effective mode of transportation.
2. Taxis and Rideshares: Taxis are widely available in St. John’s and can be a convenient way to travel, especially where public transportation is limited. Rideshare services, such as Uber and Lyft, are also available in the city.
3. Car Rentals: Renting a car is often the preferred option for visitors, as it provides the flexibility to explore St. John’s and the surrounding areas, such as the Avalon Peninsula, Cape Spear, and other attractions that are less accessible by public transport.
4. Walking: The downtown area of St. John’s is walkable and exploring on foot is a great way to experience the city’s charm, including its historic sites, shops, and restaurants.
5. Cycling: While St. John’s hilly terrain and weather conditions can be challenging for cyclists, there are still areas where biking is enjoyable, and it offers a different perspective of the city.

How to go to St. John’s, Canada

St. John’s is accessible through various modes of transport:

1. By Air: St. John’s International Airport is the primary entry point for air travelers. It offers flights to and from other major Canadian cities, as well as some international destinations.
2. By Car: Driving to St. John’s is an option for those already in Newfoundland. The city is accessible via the Trans-Canada Highway (TCH), which spans the island of Newfoundland.
3. By Bus: While intercity bus services in Newfoundland and Labrador are limited, there are services that run to St. John’s from various parts of the island.
4. By Ferry: For travelers coming from mainland Canada, ferries run from North Sydney, Nova Scotia to Port aux Basques and Argentia in Newfoundland. From these ferry terminals, visitors can drive or take a bus to St. John’s.

St. John’s unique location on the easternmost tip of North America, combined with its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, makes it an intriguing destination. The city’s transportation options cater to the needs of both locals and visitors, making it relatively easy to explore and enjoy.

Top 10 Best Dishes in St. John’s, Canada

1. Jiggs Dinner: A traditional Newfoundland meal, Jiggs Dinner includes salt beef boiled with vegetables like potatoes, carrots, cabbage, and turnips, often accompanied by pease pudding, made from yellow split peas.
2. Cod Tongues: A unique local delicacy, cod tongues (actually a small muscle from the neck of the cod) are usually floured and fried until crispy. They’re often served with scrunchions – small bits of fried pork fat.
3. Fish and Brewis: This traditional dish combines hard bread (or hardtack) soaked overnight to soften, with salted cod. It’s typically mixed with scrunchions and served with boiled potatoes.
4. Moose Stew: With a large moose population in Newfoundland, moose stew is a common and hearty dish. It’s usually made with root vegetables and slow-cooked, resulting in tender, flavorful meat.
5. Bakeapple Cheesecake: Bakeapple, known elsewhere as cloudberries, is a local berry that’s both tart and sweet. Bakeapple cheesecake is a popular dessert, combining these unique berries with a creamy cheesecake base.
6. Pea Soup and Doughboys: A comforting soup made with split peas and often includes salt beef or ham. Doughboys, or dumplings, are cooked in the soup, making it a hearty and filling meal.
7. Pan-Fried Cod with Scrunchions: A simple yet delicious way to enjoy the fresh local cod. The fish is lightly seasoned and pan-fried, served with crispy scrunchions on top.
8. Toutons: A traditional Newfoundland breakfast, toutons are made from leftover bread dough, flattened, and fried in a pan. They’re often served with molasses or maple syrup.
9. Figgy Duff: A traditional steamed pudding made with raisins (or “figs” in Newfoundland dialect), flour, molasses, and spices. It’s a sweet conclusion to a Jiggs Dinner.
10. Seal Flipper Pie: Although more of an acquired taste and less commonly found, seal flipper pie is a traditional Newfoundland dish. The flippers are typically slow-cooked with root vegetables and topped with pastry.

The cuisine of St. John’s is deeply rooted in its coastal environment and cultural history, offering a unique and hearty dining experience that reflects the rugged beauty and resilience of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Top 5 Things To Bring When Visiting St. John’s

1. Wind and Waterproof Outerwear: St. John’s, known for its coastal weather, can be quite windy and rainy, especially outside the summer months. A good quality windbreaker and waterproof jacket are essential to stay comfortable while exploring the city and its beautiful surroundings.
2. Layered Clothing: The weather in St. John’s can change rapidly, with temperatures varying throughout the day. Packing layers, such as T-shirts, long-sleeve shirts, sweaters, and a fleece, allows you to adjust easily to these changes.
3. Comfortable Walking Shoes: Whether you’re walking around the colorful downtown area, hiking Signal Hill for spectacular views, or exploring the rugged coastline, comfortable and sturdy shoes are a must for navigating both urban and natural terrains.
4. Camera or Smartphone with a Good Camera: St. John’s is known for its vibrant, colorful houses, charming streets, and stunning natural landscapes. You’ll want to capture the beauty of the city, from the historic Signal Hill and Cabot Tower to the picturesque harbors and coastal cliffs.
5. Binoculars: For nature enthusiasts, binoculars are a great addition to your packing list. St. John’s and nearby areas are fantastic for bird watching and whale watching, especially during certain seasons. Binoculars will enhance your ability to view wildlife from a distance.

A few other tips for visiting St. John’s: English is the primary language, but familiarizing yourself with some local slang or expressions can be fun and enhance your interaction with locals. Also, since Newfoundland has its own time zone (Newfoundland Time), it’s a good idea to adjust your watch accordingly to stay on schedule.

Top 10 World Records, Recognitions, and Achievements of St. John’s, Canada

1. Oldest City in North America: St. John’s is commonly acknowledged as the oldest city in North America, with a rich history dating back to its founding by the English in 1583. This long history is evident in its unique architecture and cultural heritage.
2. Easternmost City in North America: As the capital of Newfoundland and Labrador, St. John’s is the easternmost city in North America, offering the first sunrise on the continent. This geographical distinction adds to the city’s allure.
3. Signal Hill National Historic Site: Signal Hill, overlooking St. John’s, is a celebrated historic site where Guglielmo Marconi received the world’s first transatlantic wireless signal in 1901, marking a significant milestone in communication history.
4. Cape Spear Lighthouse: Located near St. John’s, Cape Spear is home to the oldest surviving lighthouse in Newfoundland and Labrador and is the easternmost point in Canada. The site is a National Historic Site of Canada.
5. St. John’s Regatta: The Royal St. John’s Regatta, held annually on Quidi Vidi Lake, is North America’s oldest annual sporting event, with documented roots dating back to at least 1816. It’s a key part of the city’s cultural fabric.
6. Colourful Row Housing: The city is famous for its “Jellybean Row” houses – brightly colored row houses that line the hilly streets. This distinctive architectural feature has become a symbol of St. John’s and a draw for photographers and tourists.
7. George Street Festival: Known for having the most bars and pubs per capita in North America, George Street hosts the annual George Street Festival, one of the biggest and most vibrant street parties in Canada.
8. Mummers Festival: The Mummers Festival in St. John’s is an annual celebration that revives the old Newfoundland tradition of mummering – holiday house-visiting in disguise during Christmas.
9. Johnson Geo Centre: Built into the natural rock of Signal Hill, the Johnson Geo Centre is a world-class geological interpretation center that explains the Earth’s geological history, including the unique geology of Newfoundland and Labrador.
10. Iceberg Viewing: St. John’s offers some of the best iceberg viewing opportunities in the world, with the annual migration of these glacial giants along the nearby coast, attracting tourists and photographers.

Note: St. John’s is a city with a unique blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and vibrant cultural life, and its list of achievements and recognitions is reflective of this diversity.