St. John's, a city on Newfoundland island off Canada's Atlantic coast, is the capital of Newfoundland and Labrador province. Its harbour was settled by the British in the 1600s. Downtown is known for its colourful row houses. Above the city is Signal Hill with walking trails and the site of the first transatlantic wireless communication, Cabot Tower, which commemorates John Cabot's discovery of Newfoundland.
Best Time to Visit St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador:
Spring (April to June): Spring in St. John's offers cool but relatively mild weather with temperatures ranging from 0°C to 15°C (32°F to 59°F). While the city is still thawing from winter, you'll see the first signs of greenery and less tourist traffic, making it a great time for a peaceful visit.
Summer (July to August): The best time to visit St. John's is during the summer, when temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). The weather is the warmest and most pleasant, and the city is alive with festivals, outdoor activities, and vibrant events. Expect long daylight hours with plenty of opportunities for exploration.
Fall (September to November): Fall in St. John's brings cooler temperatures (6°C to 14°C or 43°F to 57°F) and the stunning display of autumn foliage. This is also a quieter time to visit, with fewer tourists. Fall is perfect for hiking, scenic drives, and experiencing the city's rich culture.
Winter (December to February): Winter in St. John's can be cold, with temperatures often ranging from -5°C to -1°C (23°F to 30°F), and heavy snow is common. While the weather can be harsh, it's also an enchanting time to experience a winter wonderland, festive events, and fewer crowds.
How to Get There:
By Air: St. John’s International Airport (YYT) is the main airport, offering domestic and international flights. It’s about a 15-minute drive from downtown St. John’s and has connections to major Canadian cities and direct flights to the United States and beyond.
By Ferry: Marine Atlantic offers ferry services between St. John’s and North Sydney, Nova Scotia. The ferry ride takes approximately 16-18 hours, depending on the route and weather conditions.
By Car: St. John’s is accessible by road, but it’s a long journey from the mainland of Canada. The Trans-Canada Highway connects to North Sydney, where you can take the ferry to Newfoundland.
By Bus: You can travel to St. John's by bus through various Newfoundland and Labrador bus services. However, it's a long trip, and flights tend to be more time-efficient.
Top Attractions in St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador:
Signal Hill: One of St. John's most iconic landmarks, offering panoramic views of the city, harbor, and Atlantic Ocean. You can also visit Cabot Tower, a historical site with significance in early transatlantic communication.
The Rooms: A cultural center combining the Provincial Art Gallery, Newfoundland and Labrador's Museum, and the Archives of the province. It's a great place to explore local art, history, and culture.
Cape Spear National Historic Site: The easternmost point of North America, Cape Spear is home to a historic lighthouse and breathtaking coastal views. It’s a perfect spot for hiking and enjoying Newfoundland's rugged beauty.
Quidi Vidi Village: A picturesque fishing village within St. John's, known for its colorful homes, breweries, and the Quidi Vidi Lake. It's a great place to stroll around, enjoy local seafood, and take in the scenery.
East Coast Trail: Stretching over 300 kilometers (186 miles), the East Coast Trail offers some of the most stunning coastal hikes, including sea cliffs, dramatic coastline, and wildlife sightings like icebergs and puffins.
Harbour Front: Stroll along the waterfront to enjoy scenic views of the harbor and downtown area. The area is also home to shops, cafes, and the National Historic Site of the Battery, a charming neighborhood of colorful homes.
Johnson Geo Centre: A fascinating museum dedicated to geology, offering exhibits on the history of the Earth, the formation of Newfoundland, and the province's unique landscapes.
Newfoundland Distillery Co.: Visit this distillery to sample local craft spirits and learn about the distillation process in St. John’s, with unique offerings like Labrador Tea-infused gin.
Rennie's River Trail: A scenic and easy walk through Rennie’s River Park, perfect for those who enjoy nature walks with the chance to spot local wildlife, like birds and rabbits.
Mile One Centre: A sports and entertainment venue where you can catch concerts, hockey games, and other events.
Activities to Do in St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador:
Take a Boat Tour: Go on a boat tour to spot icebergs, whales, and puffins around St. John's. These tours are especially popular during the summer months when wildlife sightings are abundant.
Explore the East Coast Trail: Hike parts of the East Coast Trail, which offers dramatic coastal views, sea cliffs, and wildlife. It’s an unforgettable way to experience Newfoundland’s natural beauty.
Visit George Street: George Street is the nightlife hub of St. John's, home to a number of pubs, live music venues, and bars. It’s famous for its vibrant atmosphere and is a must-see for anyone visiting the city.
Go Whale Watching: In summer, St. John's is a great place to go whale watching. You can take a tour to see humpback whales, minke whales, and blue whales in their natural habitat.
Take a Historic Walking Tour: Explore the history and charm of St. John's on a guided walking tour. Learn about the city’s unique culture, historic buildings, and colorful row houses.
Try the Local Cuisine: Sample Newfoundland specialties such as saltfish and brewis, moose stew, and Bakeapple (cloudberry). You can find these dishes in local restaurants or at the St. John's Farmers' Market.
Iceberg Viewing: If you visit between late spring and early summer, don’t miss the chance to view icebergs floating in the North Atlantic. Boat tours and some viewpoints around the city offer great views of these natural wonders.
Visit the Newfoundland and Labrador Arts and Culture Centre: Home to theater performances, exhibitions, and festivals, the Arts and Culture Centre is a great way to experience the province’s vibrant arts scene.
Take a Day Trip to the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve: Just a short drive from St. John's, the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve is home to one of the largest puffin colonies in North America. It’s an excellent destination for birdwatching.
Attend the George Street Festival: If you visit in summer, don’t miss the George Street Festival, one of the largest street festivals in Canada, featuring live music, performances, and local food and drink.
Accommodation in St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador:
The Murray Premises Hotel: Located in the heart of downtown St. John's, this historic hotel offers comfortable rooms and great access to local attractions, including the waterfront and historic sites.
Delta Hotels by Marriott St. John's Conference Centre: A modern hotel offering spacious rooms, an indoor pool, and an on-site restaurant. It’s perfect for those attending conferences or events at the nearby Mile One Centre.
The Battery Hotel & Suites: Located near Signal Hill, this hotel offers stunning views of the harbor and Cabot Tower, along with comfortable accommodations and a restaurant serving local cuisine.
Sheraton Hotel Newfoundland: A high-end option with contemporary rooms, an indoor pool, and a full-service spa. It offers great views of the city and St. John's Harbor.
Airbnb: You can also find great options through Airbnb, with cozy downtown apartments, historic homes, and waterfront properties available for rent.
Food and Restaurants in St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador:
The St. John's Fish Exchange: A popular seafood restaurant known for fresh local fish, lobster, and clams. A great place to enjoy Newfoundland’s famous seafood.
Chinched Bistro: Known for its creative and locally inspired menu, this cozy bistro offers dishes made from Newfoundland’s finest ingredients.
Mallard Cottage: Located in the historic Quidi Vidi Village, Mallard Cottage is known for its rustic, farm-to-table dining experience with a menu that highlights local flavors.
The Reluctant Chef: A cozy, contemporary restaurant offering dishes made with local, sustainable ingredients. Known for its seafood and Newfoundland specialties.
Rocket Bakery & Fresh Food: A casual spot for delicious baked goods, sandwiches, soups, and local coffee, making it an excellent choice for breakfast or lunch.
Geraldine’s: Known for its relaxed atmosphere, offering classic Newfoundland comfort food, such as fish and chips, moose stew, and blue mussels.
Local Culture in St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador:
Distinct Accent and Language: The locals speak Newfoundland English, which features unique words, phrases, and accents. The Newfoundland dialect is influenced by Irish, English, and French settlers, and it’s part of what makes the culture so distinctive.
Maritime Traditions: St. John’s has a deep maritime heritage, reflected in its history, architecture, and way of life. The sea plays a crucial role in shaping the local culture, with festivals, seafood cuisine, and fishing traditions.
Music Scene: St. John's is known for its vibrant folk music scene, with local pubs often featuring live performances of traditional Newfoundland folk songs.
Friendly and Welcoming People: Newfoundlanders are known for their hospitality and friendly demeanor. Visitors often feel like they’re welcomed into the community, where locals are always ready to share a story or offer help.
Festivals: The city celebrates a range of events throughout the year, from the George Street Festival to St. John's International Women's Film Festival, and The Newfoundland Folk Festival.
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