St. John's

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with St. John's's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Signal Hill, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the city. Afterward, stroll through the colorful streets of Jellybean Row, admiring the unique architecture and vibrant houses that define St. John's. Stop by a local café for a warm cup of coffee and a traditional Newfoundland pastry, such as a touton.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, explore The Rooms, a stunning cultural facility that showcases the history and art of Newfoundland and Labrador. Follow up with a visit to the historic Basilica of St. John the Baptist, where you can appreciate its stunning stained glass windows and intricate architecture. Take a leisurely walk along Water Street, stopping at local shops and galleries to discover unique crafts and souvenirs.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a local seafood restaurant, savoring fresh catches like cod or mussels. Afterward, seek out live music at one of the many pubs in George Street, where you can experience the vibrant local music scene. Conclude your evening with a nightcap at a cozy bar, soaking in the lively atmosphere.

day 2
Coastal Hiking Adventure
morning
:

Begin your day early with a hearty breakfast before heading to the East Coast Trail for an invigorating hike. Choose a scenic route such as the Cape Spear Path, where you can witness Canada’s oldest lighthouse and stunning coastal views. Keep your eyes peeled for puffins and other seabirds as you stroll along the rugged cliffs.

afternoon
:

After hiking, enjoy a packed lunch at a scenic overlook, where you can take in the panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. Continue your adventure by exploring the surrounding area, perhaps visiting the picturesque town of Petty Harbour and its charming fishing boats. Don’t miss the opportunity to capture photos of the stunning landscape and wildlife.

evening
:

Return to St. John's and unwind at a local restaurant specializing in comfort food, with options like fish and chips or pea soup. If you're up for it, join a guided ghost walk to learn about the spooky legends and history of the city. Wrap up the evening with a visit to a local brewery to sample some craft beer made on-site.

day 3
Whale Watching Excursion
morning
:

Kick off your morning with a delicious breakfast at a waterfront café before boarding a boat for an exciting whale watching tour. As you head out to sea, listen to your guide share fascinating insights about the marine life in the area. Keep your camera ready as you spot humpback whales and puffins frolicking in the waters around you.

afternoon
:

After the tour, enjoy lunch at one of the seaside eateries, where you can indulge in fresh seafood and local delicacies. Spend the afternoon at the nearby Witless Bay Ecological Reserve, where you can take in the stunning natural beauty and learn about the conservation efforts for the puffin population. Don’t forget to bring your binoculars for a closer look at the nesting birds on the cliffs.

evening
:

Return to St. John’s and treat yourself to dinner at a restaurant that offers a farm-to-table experience, highlighting local ingredients. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the waterfront, enjoying the calming sounds of the waves and the fresh sea breeze. End the evening with a visit to a local art gallery or craft shop to pick up a unique memento.

day 4
Cultural Immersion at Local Markets
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the St. John's Farmers' Market, where you can browse local produce, crafts, and baked goods. Engage with local vendors, sampling fresh cheeses, jams, and traditional baked items while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. Take the opportunity to purchase some unique Newfoundland products to take home.

afternoon
:

After the market, head to the Quidi Vidi Village, a charming fishing village with stunning views and local breweries. Enjoy lunch at a local café overlooking the harbor, sampling dishes made with fresh ingredients sourced from the area. Spend some time exploring the quaint shops and galleries showcasing local artisans' work.

evening
:

In the evening, enjoy dinner at a restaurant that features traditional Newfoundland cuisine, such as Jigg’s dinner or fish cakes. Consider attending a cultural event or performance in the area, where you can experience traditional music and storytelling. Finish your day with a nightcap at a local pub, soaking in the friendly atmosphere and perhaps even joining in a sing-along.

day 5
Adventure at Cape Spear
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local diner before setting out for Cape Spear, the easternmost point in North America. Explore the historic lighthouse and enjoy the stunning views of the rugged coastline and crashing waves. Take a leisurely walk along the surrounding trails, soaking in the fresh sea air and tranquility of the area.

afternoon
:

After exploring Cape Spear, grab a packed lunch and head to the nearby beach for a picnic with a view. Spend the afternoon enjoying the beach, perhaps attempting some kayaking or simply relaxing on the sand. Keep an eye out for marine life as you enjoy the coastal scenery.

evening
:

Return to St. John's for dinner at a restaurant known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious local cuisine. Afterward, explore the nightlife in the city, starting with a visit to a local pub for some live traditional music. Conclude the night with a leisurely stroll through the streets, enjoying the charming ambiance of the city.

day 6
Art and History Exploration
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to The Rooms, where you can explore the vast collections of art and artifacts that showcase Newfoundland and Labrador's history. Spend time appreciating the contemporary art exhibits and learning about the indigenous cultures of the region. Enjoy a coffee at the café inside while taking in the panoramic views of the harbor.

afternoon
:

Head to the nearby Colonial Building and participate in a guided tour to learn about the political history of Newfoundland. Afterward, visit the National War Memorial and take a moment to reflect on the sacrifices made by the province during wartime. Spend the afternoon wandering through the historic streets of St. John's, discovering charming shops and quaint architecture.

evening
:

For dinner, find a local eatery that specializes in comfort food, where you can enjoy a hearty meal with a Newfoundland twist. Afterward, attend a live theatre performance or cultural event, immersing yourself in the local arts scene. Conclude the evening by visiting a cozy café for dessert and a nightcap, reflecting on the day’s experiences.

day 7
Kayaking and Nature Discovery
morning
:

Kick off your morning with a hearty breakfast at a local café before heading out for a kayaking adventure in the bay. Paddle through the calm waters while enjoying the stunning coastal scenery and spotting local wildlife, including seals and seabirds. Your guide will share insights about the area's ecology and history as you navigate the coastline.

afternoon
:

After your kayaking excursion, enjoy lunch at a nearby seafood restaurant, sampling the freshest catches of the day. Spend the afternoon hiking along the coastal trails, taking in the breathtaking views and unique geological formations. Capture the beauty of the area with photos and enjoy the serene environment away from the hustle of the city.

evening
:

Return to St. John's for dinner at a restaurant that offers local specialties, perhaps enjoying a dish like bakeapple dessert. Afterward, take part in a storytelling event or local music session to immerse yourself in Newfoundland’s rich cultural heritage. End your evening with a stroll along the waterfront, enjoying the peaceful ambiance of the harbor at night.

day 8
Relaxing Beach Day
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a beachside café before heading to one of the beautiful nearby beaches, such as Torbay Beach. Spend the morning sunbathing, swimming, or simply enjoying the natural beauty of the ocean and sand. Bring along a good book or some beach games to make the most of your time by the water.

afternoon
:

After a relaxing morning, enjoy a picnic lunch on the beach, soaking in the sun and the sound of the waves. If you're feeling adventurous, consider renting a paddleboard or kayak to explore the coastline from a different perspective. Spend time building sandcastles or collecting seashells along the shore.

evening
:

As the sun sets, return to St. John's for a casual dinner at a beach-themed restaurant. Afterward, take a leisurely walk along the boardwalk, enjoying the cooling evening breeze and vibrant sunset. Wrap up your day with a visit to a local ice cream shop for a sweet treat.

day 9
Historical Train Journey
morning
:

Begin your day with breakfast at a cozy café before boarding a train for a scenic ride through the picturesque landscapes of Newfoundland. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the countryside and coastline as you travel, capturing the beauty of the region. The train journey is a perfect way to relax and witness the natural wonders around St. John's.

afternoon
:

After the train ride, arrive at a charming town where you can explore its history and culture. Enjoy lunch at a local diner, sampling some traditional Newfoundland dishes. Spend the afternoon visiting historical sites, including old railway stations or museums that tell the story of the region's rich past.

evening
:

Return to St. John's and enjoy dinner at a restaurant that specializes in local fare, perhaps trying a dish made with ingredients sourced from the area. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the city’s historical districts, enjoying the ambiance and architecture of the buildings. Conclude your day with a warm drink at a local café, reflecting on the day’s adventures.

Discover St. John's

Read more in our St. John's 2025 Travel Guide.

St. John's Travel Guide