Are you looking for fun things to do in St. John’s Newfoundland?
Whether it’s your first time visiting, or you’ve fallen in love with the town and visited multiple times (like me), there is so much to see and explore in Canada’s oldest city. Located on the Bay of Fundy, John Cabot was the first explorer to sail into St. John’s on June 24, 1497!
Today’s explorers look a little different, arriving by plane, cruise ship, or road trip, but one thing hasn’t changed, the beautiful scenery of this seaside town and the charm that awaits. I first visited St. John’s during our East Coast family road trip in 2017. We were only there for two days and it wasn’t long enough to explore beyond the major sights so when I found out TMAC was hosting their annual conference there, I registered right away and booked a few extra days to explore. I also brought along my Mom who, like me, fell in love with the city, the people, and the beautiful scenery.
So when people ask me, “What are the fun things to do in St. John’s Newfoundland?” I start rambling off all of the adventures that they need to explore and I’m so excited to now have this article that I can share with them, and now you!
So plan to spend as much time in St. John’s as possible and don’t forget to bring your camera and walking shoes, and build an adventure-filled itinerary.
Disclaimer: While I share my own thoughts and stories about these experiences, should you click on the affiliate links, I may receive a small commission on that sale which helps fund Adventure Awaits.
22 Fun Things to do in St. John’s Newfoundland
1. Signal Hill National Historic Site
By far the most popular attraction, Cabot Tower on top of Signal Hill is an absolute “must” if you’re visiting St. John’s, especially if it’s a nice day. This National Historic Site overlooks the city of St. John’s with sweeping panoramic views that lead straight out to the ocean. Cabot Tower at the top of the hill has been there since the 17th century and has been used to defend and protect the harbour. Whether you’re a history buff, someone looking to partake in a beautiful scenic hike, or just want to explore a cool piece of Canadian history, Signal Hill is the perfect destination. Check out our full article on Signal Hill here.
There are quite a few different ways to get to Signal Hill. You can walk from downtown, hike up through the Battery and take one of the hiking trails, rent bikes and bike up, or take your car, or Uber. My favourite was to hike up and my favourite trail was the North Head Trail.
Address: 230 Signal Hill Rd, St. John’s, NL A1A 1B3
2. Wander Through the Battery
Battery Road is filled with colourful cliffside homes that make you wonder what it must be like to live there. Small homes with world-class views, we spotted some Airbnb guests coming out of their rented accommodations, beyond excited about their stay and what adventures they would seek! You can wander the streets of the Battery as a solo trip or combine it while visiting the Signal Hill Area and in between hiking the North Head Trail.
This photo is taken from the Battery to give you an idea of the view that awaits.
3. Hike The North Head Trail to Signal Hill
The North Head Trail runs along the cliff edge, giving you incredible views looking back at St. John’s and out to the Atlantic Ocean. As the oldest and most popular trail on Signal Hill, this route may have been in use as far back as the 1500s. If you climb the trail from town you’ll go through The Battery and ascend to Signal Hill, with one heck of a flight of stairs at the end (you’ve been warned!). I love this trail so much as the views are incredible and the oceanside trek is the perfect workout. Many of my colleagues did the trail more than once on our visit.
The trail is 1.7km long and takes the average person about an hour due to the steps. It’s defined as a strenuous/challenging hike so be sure to bring water, sunscreen, a hat, and have proper shoes on.
Traveler Tip: Finding the access point to the trail is tricky, I missed it on my first attempt. Google Maps should take you to the right spot, down Battery Road to the trailhead. It’s a bit odd as you have to walk a step over someone’s stairs, which feels like you’re walking on private property, but it’s okay and is the correct place! Just keep a lookout for the signs (there aren’t many) and use Google Maps to get you to the right spot.
Address: 18 N Head Trail, St. John’s, NL A1A 1B2
4. Visit The Queen’s Battery and Barracks
From the top of Signal Hill, you can take the Centre to Citadel Trail down towards the water which will take you to the Queen’s Battery and Barracks as well as give you another great view of St. John’s. This trail is .5km and takes about 10 minutes, definitely worth the walk.
5. Protect the Harbour (and strike a pose while you’re at it!)
Next to the Queen’s Battery is a set of cannons, reminiscent of a different time, when soldiers sat on active duty, protecting the harbour. Now they are fun to spot and to strike a pose with.
6. Hike Ladies Lookout Trail To Quidi Vidi
From the top of Signal Hill, you can take a moderate 1.3 km hike down through the Ladies Lookout Trail that leads to Quidi Vidi. I loved this trail as it meant we got to keep exploring by foot and soak in the beautiful views of the rugged coastline and seascapes.
Keep an eye out for a huge eagle’s nest when you come to the lookouts (pictured above). Some sections of the trail have ascending stairs and uneven surfaces so be sure to have proper walking shoes.
7. Explore Quidi Vidi, St. John’s Picture Perfect Seaside Town
This small, quaint inlet is lined with houses and boardwalks for locals and visitors alike.
It’s uniqueness is worth the walk in, but once you’re there be sure to give yourself lots of time to explore.
After all of the hiking at Signal Hill my Mom and I decided to grab lunch at Quidi Vidi Brewing Co, and it quickly became our favourite restaurant in St. John’s. They were lined out the door but we only had to wait ten minutes for a table, and it was worth the wait (so don’t be discouraged if it looks like a long line when you first get there). Upstairs you’ll find craft beer, a locally sourced menu, and the best views in Quidi Vidi. They also had live music from a local artist who had the whole house rocking.
The perfect mix of location, atmosphere, good food, and great people, making Quidi Vidi a must! We went back 3 times during our week in St. John’s, once for pictures, once for another meal, and another time to soak it in before we left!
Address: 35 Barrows Rd, St. John’s, NL A1A 1G8
8. Terry Fox Memorial
Visit the spot where on April 12, 1980, Terry Fox first dipped his leg in the Atlantic Ocean and then began his Marathon of Hope. Behind this bigger-than-life statue is an incredible quote, “I just wish people would realize that anything’s possible if you try. Dreams are made if people try.” ~Terry Fox.
The memorial is at the end of Water Street so it’s a great place to start exploring downtown St. John’s.
Address: 1 Water St, St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador A1C 1A1 Canada
9. Visit Harbourside Park
One of the only places in St. John’s to stand directly next to the ocean, Harbourside Park was built to commemorate the 1583 proclamation by Sir Humphrey Gilbert claiming Newfoundland. If you can align your trip to be at the park on Fridays at 12:30 pm during the summer season you can take in the Harbourside lunchtime concert series. If you’re like me and not there on a Friday you can have fun and pose with the Newfoundland dog or Labrador Retriever.
Address: Queens Cove, St. John’s, NL A1C 1A6
10. Walk Along Water Street
Famous for being Canada’s oldest street, Water Street invites you to explore a mix of old and new architecture and a bustling food scene set upon a vibrant background.
Whether you’re looking to shop for souvenirs, step into a local restaurant or pub for some eats, or want to check out the local entertainment, it can all be found downtown.
11. Spot Mesmerizing Murals
Throughout downtown St. John’s you’ll find a variety of beautiful murals, sharing stories of the East Coast, historical moments, and inspiration.
While there are a lot of building-size murals, be sure to keep an eye out for smaller pieces of art that have made their way onto storefronts.
12. Check out the Atlantic Supersized Boats
Growing up in Vancouver I’ve been around a lot of boats in my life, however touring along the boardwalk brought me to some of the biggest boats I’ve ever seen. Some of them looked like they could eat a freight liner for breakfast and that’s probably because of the size of the waves they need to be prepared to battle on the Atlantic Ocean.
13. Visit Jelly Bean Row
Houses in St. John’s are famous for being brightly coloured and whimsically decorated, making St. John’s the most colourful city in Canada. The movement to paint buildings the jelly bean colours was intended to brighten the spirits of the locals during the long, foggy, winter season, and it worked!
Head to Duckworth Street to walk among the houses, capturing photos along the way. There is an extensive network of brightly coloured homes that you can see throughout the city, but Duckworth is the most famous spot.
Fun fact: Neighbours are not allowed to paint their houses the same colour as their next-door neighbour!
14. Take The Stairs & Back Alleys
While Water Street is the main thoroughfare through St. John’s, Harbour Drive and Duckworth are on either side of the main street and there are a lot of great little alleys, stairs, and pathways that connect them all. Don’t be shy to veer off the main street and explore some of these art-infused side streets!
15. Take a Walking Tour in St. John’s
While I was at the conference, my Mom wanted to learn more about the history of St. John’s so she signed up for a Walking Tour of the city. She loved the local guide (David), the historical facts, and the stories that she would have missed had it been a self-guided walk. She said, “Bring water though” as there was lots of walking and little hills to tackle!
Book your St. John’s Downtown Walking Tour here!
16. Cape Spear Lighthouse National Historic Site
Head out of the city and go to Cape Spear Lighthouse National Historic Site. Their biggest claim of fame is that it is the most easterly point in North America! This makes it a popular attraction for its “I’ve been there!” sake, but that’s not the only reason to visit. The site hosts the oldest surviving lighthouse in Newfoundland and Labrador. Visitors are welcome to go inside and explore it and learn all about what life was like for 19th-century lighthouse keepers.
Roam around the property and check out the amazing views, and other attractions, do the Parks Xplorers Program, and be sure to scan the waters for whales, Minke whales are often spotted off the shore! Check out our full article on Cape Spear Lighthouse National Historic Site.
17. Visit Deadman’s Bay Path
Most visitors to St. John’s will go to Cape Spear and straight back into town. But when we were on a photography tour with a local guide he brought us to Deadman’s Bay Path trailhead, part of the East Coast Trail. From there you can traverse kilometres of hikes and explore. We chose only to take photos of the jagged waters edge and it was a great spot with no one around!
18. Seek out Small Town Charm
Just up the street from the Deadman’s Path trailhead are a few oceanside homes with a few eclectic items that I just had to stop and photograph (I got permission). I loved the colourful houses and the little elements that made the area unique.
19. Pretty Harbour
If you liked the small village vibes of Quidi Vidi then a little trip to Pretty Harbour is worth your time. My Mom ventured there without me, sending me pics which inspired me to try to rearrange our itinerary so I could go!
Pretty Harbour is a picture-perfect East Coast town with a small population of 950 people. Situated on the eastern shore of the Avalon Peninsula, you’ll find colourful houses, rocky shores, and a walkable town you can explore. Making for the perfect micro road trip from St. Johns.
20. Coastal Hiking Tour with George’s Tours
My Mom is an adventure seeker so when I was stuck inside at a conference she was out exploring and signed up for a Coastal Hiking Tour with George’s Tours. Through the conference she was texting me photos and telling me all about her guide, saying that this experience was one of her most favourite travel experiences of all time.
My Mom took a tour that took them along the Trans Canada Trail, which led to cliffside scenery and lookouts along the Eastern Shore. A combination of a hike, a visit to a market, as well as personal local insight made for the perfect day, and my Mom said, “Make sure you put it in the blog so that everyone knows about this experience!”
Book your Coastal Hiking Tour here!
21. Do A Photography Tour of St. John’s
My absolute favourite experience in St. John’s was when I did a photo tour with Far East Photography Tours. We had a small group with only 3 colleagues and headed out for 4 hours, taking photos of some of the best sights around St. John’s. I loved having the combination of a tour guide who shared insights on what we were seeing, but also a photography expert who helped evolve our craft.
As a travel photographer, our guide also shared insight on how to get different photos and took us to lesser-known destinations that only a local would know, allowing us to capture amazing shots like this, looking back over the Battery, with the ocean in the foreground. We also visited Signal Hill, Cape Spear Lighthouse, Deadman’s Bay Path, and Jelly Bean Row. They have a variety of tours available and I know that I’ll book another one next time I’m in St. John’s.
This photography tour was the best way to see St. John’s and get the most amazing photos and I can’t recommend it enough. I’ve also started booking photography tours when I travel to other cities as it’s been the best way to experience a new destination.
22. Spot Ships On The Sea
Spot Ships On The Sea – Can you say that five times fast? With a robust fishing industry and a variety of other boats (large and small) coming out of the harbour, it’s really neat to hang out at the water’s edge and spot ships as they sail between the shore. There are a few different places you can go ship spotting in St. John’s (I did it again) but my favs would be:
- In a Parks Canada iconic red chair along the North Head Trail
- In Harbourside Park in downtown St. John’s
- In the area across from the Battery, which is hard to find. You have to drive to the end of the road and find a small park on the left. Most of the waterfront area is not accessible to the public but you’ll find this small park where you can hang out and spot ships (Note: there are no amenities there which is why I love it for a short stop and scenic view, but not an extended stay).
Accommodations in St. John’s
We made our St. John’s base camp the Sheraton Hotel Newfoundland. Its central location, comfortable rooms, indoor heated pool, and friendly hospitality made for an exceptional stay. Being able to pop in to rest, change for our next activity and relax before the next day began, made this a perfect place to stay.
Book your stay at Sheraton Hotel Newfoundland here!
So there you have it, 22 of the most fun things to do in St. John’s, Newfoundland for your next adventure. As you can see there’s a lot to see and do, a lot of steps to be taken, and beautiful places to explore. But while you are visiting St. John’s be sure to take time to get to know the people. I consider Newfoundlanders to be the most welcoming and kind-hearted souls and they are so proud to welcome you into their city. So whether it’s spending time at a restaurant or meeting up with a local on the trail, the scenery is as magical as the people who call it home.
Explore More East Coast Adventures Here!
Is this a sponsored post?: Yes, however, my experiences and thoughts are my own!
