Things To Do
in Saint John

Saint John, Canada is a vibrant port city located on the Bay of Fundy in New Brunswick. Known for its rich maritime history and beautiful coastal landscapes, it offers visitors a unique blend of culture and natural beauty. The city is home to the only reversing rapids in the world, where the Bay of Fundy tides collide with the Saint John River.

With a lively arts scene and numerous outdoor activities, Saint John is an ideal destination for travelers seeking adventure and relaxation.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore the Historic City
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local café before heading to the Saint John City Market, one of the oldest markets in North America. Wander through the stalls to sample local produce and artisan goods.

afternoon
:

Visit the New Brunswick Museum to learn about the region's natural and cultural history. Afterward, take a stroll along the waterfront and enjoy the scenic views of the harbor.

evening
:

Dine at one of the waterfront restaurants and enjoy fresh seafood dishes. After dinner, take a leisurely walk through the historic uptown area and enjoy the architecture lit up at night.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Have breakfast at a local diner before heading out to the Reversing Falls. Witness the unique phenomenon of the tides as they reverse the flow of the river.

afternoon
:

Go for a hike in the Fundy Trail Parkway, where you can enjoy breathtaking coastal views and explore the natural beauty of the area. Don’t forget to pack a picnic lunch to enjoy along the way.

evening
:

Return to the city and enjoy dinner at a local pub known for its craft beers. Later, check out a live music venue for a taste of the local nightlife.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Fast Food Meal$10
Coffee$3
🍺Domestic Beer$6
🍽️Dinner for Two$60
🚌Public Transport Ticket$2.50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich maritime history and culture.
  • Beautiful natural scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Friendly and welcoming locals.
  • Limited public transportation options.
  • Cold winters may deter some visitors.
  • Fewer nightlife options compared to larger cities.

Places to Visit in Saint John

Visit one of these nice places.

Reversing Falls

A stunning natural phenomenon where the Bay of Fundy tides collide with the Saint John River, creating dramatic views.

Saint John City Market

An iconic market filled with vibrant stalls and local vendors, perfect for capturing the essence of the city.

Lighthouse at Partridge Island

An historic lighthouse providing picturesque views of the coastline and the city skyline.

Culinary Guide

Food in Saint John

Saint John is a culinary delight, offering a mix of traditional and modern cuisine with a strong emphasis on fresh, local seafood.

Saint John Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Lobster Roll

A classic New Brunswick dish made with fresh lobster meat served in a buttered roll.

Must-Try!

Fish and Chips

Crispy battered fish served with fries, often made with local cod.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Saint John City Market

An indoor market with a variety of local vendors offering fresh produce, baked goods, and street food options.

Climate Guide

Weather

Saint John experiences a humid continental climate, characterized by four distinct seasons. Winters can be cold with significant snowfall, while summers are warm and humid. Average temperatures in winter hover around -5°C, while summer temperatures can reach up to 25°C. Rainfall is distributed fairly evenly throughout the year, with the wettest months typically in the fall.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Canadians value politeness; saying 'please' and 'thank you' is essential.

Queuing

Always form a queue and wait your turn; cutting in line is frowned upon.

Respect for Nature

Respect the natural environment and wildlife, especially in parks and outdoor areas.

Safety Guide

Safety

Saint John is generally a safe city for travelers, but it is always advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid poorly lit areas at night and keep your belongings secure. Emergency services are accessible, and the local police are friendly and helpful.

Tipping in Saint John

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip around 15-20% in restaurants and for other services like taxis.

Payment Methods

Most establishments accept credit and debit cards, and cash is also widely accepted, though less frequently used.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings mild weather and blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities. Average temperatures range from 5°C to 15°C.

Summer

Summer is warm and bustling with festivals and events. Expect temperatures between 15°C and 25°C, perfect for enjoying the beaches.

Autumn

Autumn showcases stunning fall foliage, with cooler temperatures around 5°C to 15°C. It's an ideal time for hiking and photography.

Winter

Winter can be cold and snowy, with temperatures ranging from -5°C to 5°C. It's a good time for winter sports and cozy indoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Saint John at Night

Saint John's nightlife is diverse, ranging from cozy pubs with live music to dance clubs and vibrant bars. The city has a strong local music scene, and many venues feature performances by local artists. Enjoy craft beer from local breweries and explore the nightlife in the uptown area, which comes alive with events and gatherings, especially during the summer months.

Hiking in Saint John

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Fundy Trail Parkway

A scenic coastal trail system with various hiking options and stunning views of the Bay of Fundy.

Mount Carleton Provincial Park

Located a bit further from Saint John, this park offers challenging hikes with breathtaking views and diverse wildlife.

Airports

How to reach Saint John by plane.

Saint John Airport (YSJ)

Located about 15 km from the city center, it offers domestic flights and some international connections, providing convenient access to Saint John.

Getting Around

Walkability

Saint John is fairly walkable, especially in the uptown area where most attractions, restaurants, and shops are concentrated. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and the city layout is pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Acadian Community

A significant demographic group in New Brunswick, the Acadian community has a rich cultural heritage that influences local traditions and festivities.

English-speaking Residents

The majority of the population is English-speaking, contributing to the cultural dynamics and social interactions within the city.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Hockey

Ice hockey is immensely popular in Saint John, with local teams and community leagues drawing large crowds.

Lacrosse

Lacrosse has a significant following, and local teams compete in various leagues, showcasing the sport's cultural importance.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Saint John is generally light, with few congestion issues. Public transportation is available through the Saint John Transit system, which offers bus services throughout the city and its suburbs, though schedules may be limited.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Saint John.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, with options clearly marked on menus.

Gluten-Free Options

Some eateries provide gluten-free alternatives; it's best to inquire when ordering.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Saint John has access to healthcare facilities, including hospitals and clinics. The main hospital, Saint John Regional Hospital, provides a range of medical services. For non-emergency care, many walk-in clinics are available throughout the city.

Discover Canada

Read more in our Canada 2025 Travel Guide.

Canada Travel Guide