Saint John
Country: Canada · Region: Canada and New England · Currency: Canadian Dollar
Saint John is Canada's oldest incorporated city and the second-largest in New Brunswick, located on the Bay of Fundy and routinely hosting cruise ships with over 200,000 cruise visitors annually. The city features a historic downtown (Uptown) with a renaissance of shopping, dining, and cultural attractions.
Top sights
City Market, Reversing Falls, Fort Howe, Rockwood Park, Carleton Martello Tower, Irving Nature Park
Things to do
- City Market
- The oldest continuing farmer's market in Canada with a charter dating from 1785, featuring local businesses, craft workers, artists, farmers, bakers and grocers selling unique foods and crafts.
- Reversing Falls
- Strong rapids form as the Bay of Fundy's highest tides clash with the Saint John River flow below the Reversing Falls bridge, viewable from the free Reversing Falls Lookout Point.
- Fort Howe
- Historic fort located in the North End offering panoramic views of the city and harbour.
- Carleton Martello Tower
- A Canadian National Historic Site built for the War of 1812 with a Visitor Center, Exhibit Gallery, and grounds to explore.
Beaches
- Irving Nature Park
- A variety of walking trails on the West Side lead through woods, marshes, beaches and lookout points on the sea.
- Rockwood Park
- A wide variety of walking, biking and horseback riding trails with natural and man-made lakes offering free public swimming.
Where to eat
- Billy's Seafood
- Locally owned seafood restaurant near the front gates of City Market offering great seafood dishes at reasonable prices ($15-20 per person).
- Saint John Ale House
- Located in Market Square on the Boardwalk, serving great selection of local and international beers with good food including ale-sized fish and chips.
Bars and nightlife
- Big Tide Brewing Co.
- Brew pub at 53 Princess Street featuring microbrewed beers and pub favourites with great mixed drinks.
Getting around
Public transit via Saint John Transit buses ($3 per adult), taxis from multiple companies ($7-15 within city), or walking within Uptown via the 'Inside Connection' pedestrian network.
What to eat
The City Market offers fresh local seafood, produce, and international foods, while Uptown has numerous independent restaurants and dining options ranging from casual to upscale.
Tips
Visit the Reversing Falls at the correct tide time (check website for low-income and high-tide schedules) to see the dramatic tidal phenomenon where the Bay of Fundy's highest tides clash with the Saint John River.
Best for
Historic sites, Natural attractions, Shopping, Local cuisine