Getting Around: Saint John

Walking & Cycling

Uptown Saint John is highly walkable, with its compact layout featuring historical architecture, shops, restaurants, and attractions. A pedestrian boardwalk stretches along the harbor, offering scenic views. Rockwood Park presents numerous walking and hiking trails.

Guided historical or culinary walking tours of Uptown are available from local operators. Self-guided maps and brochures are at the Visitor Information Centre, with "Story Board" signs providing historical context.

Cycling Information

Limited dedicated bicycle lanes within the city. Cyclists share roads with vehicles.
Multi-use trails exist, like parts of the Fundy Trail Parkway or trails within Rockwood Park.
Wear a Helmet (recommended), use lights at night, and follow traffic laws.
Be cautious sharing roads with vehicles. No specific "no-go" areas exist for pedestrians/cyclists.

Walkable Uptown

Historic streets, shops, and restaurants are easily explored on foot.

Self-Guided Tours

Maps and historical markers allow for independent exploration.

Park Trails

Rockwood Park and other green spaces provide extensive walking paths.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses & Water Transport

Hop-on-Hop-off buses are often available during cruise season (May-Oct).
These typically cover major Uptown attractions and the Reversing Falls.
No regular boat taxi service; scenic boat tours of the harbor or Bay of Fundy are available.

Accessibility Services

Saint John Transit buses are accessible with ramps or lifts.
Some taxi companies have accessible vehicles; call in advance to request.
Many newer attractions and public buildings are wheelchair accessible.

Rental Options Summary

Car Rental

Major companies available at airport and downtown.

Bicycle Rental

Available from local shops, not a city-wide program.

Winter Gear

Snowshoes, skis available for rent from outfitters.

Watercraft

Kayaks, paddleboards for rent seasonally.

Public Transit Detailed

Saint John Transit operates a comprehensive bus system within the city. This section provides more detail on how to use it efficiently.

Routes & Coverage

Buses run on designated routes across Saint John, connecting residential to commercial areas.
transfer points include Market Square in Uptown and McAllister Place on the East Side.
Route maps and schedules are available on the Saint John Transit website.
Major routes link Uptown to the West Side, East Side, and North End.

Fares & Passes

Single cash fare: exact change needed, typically around $2.75-$3.00 CAD.
Day passes, weekly passes, and monthly passes are available for frequent users.
Transfers are available upon request when paying cash, within a limited time.
Credit or debit card tap is not available on buses.

Hours & Frequency

Buses generally operate from early morning (around 6:00 AM) to late evening (~11:00 PM or midnight).
Reduced service is common on weekends and holidays.
Frequency varies by route and time of day, ranging from 30-60 minutes during peak hours.

Less busy routes or off-peak times may have longer intervals, 60-90 minutes.
Use Google Maps for real-time bus tracking and route planning.
Purchasing a day pass is cost-effective if using public transit more than twice.

Taxi & Ride-Sharing Specifics

Hailing Taxis

Hailing on the street is possible in high-traffic areas, but calling a dispatcher or finding stands is more common.

Ride-Sharing Apps

Uber or Lyft service is not consistent in Saint John. Local taxi companies may have their own apps.

Airport Transfers

Taxis are usually waiting outside YSJ Airport. It's best to call for a taxi from the Maritime Bus Terminal.

Driving & Parking in Saint John

Self-driving offers flexibility, especially for exploring beyond the city center. Be aware of local driving conditions and parking regulations.

Driving Laws & Road Conditions

Drive on the right side of the road. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants.
Cell phone use while driving (handheld devices) is illegal.
Headlights must be on from half an hour before sunset until half an hour after sunrise, and in poor visibility.
Roads in Saint John and New Brunswick are generally well-maintained.

Speed Limits & Parking

Speed limits are posted in km/h. Highways typically allow 100-110 km/h, city streets 50 km/h.
In Uptown, metered street parking is available and enforced during business hours.
Parking garages like Brunswick Square or Market Square offer hourly and daily rates.
Outside Uptown, free parking is generally more available at attractions and shopping centers.

Winter Driving & Wildlife

Winter Precautions

If driving in winter, snow tires are highly recommended.

Roads can be slippery or snow-covered. Allow extra travel time.

Wildlife Awareness

Be aware of deer and moose, especially at dawn and dusk on rural roads.

Collisions with large animals can be serious.

Traffic Patterns

Traffic is generally light compared to major cities.

Rush hour, like on the Harbour Bridge, can see some congestion.

Specialized Transport Details

Tour Options

Organized bus tours cover Saint John's highlights.
Some tours extend to nearby areas like the Fundy Trail Parkway.
Scenic boat tours of the harbor, Saint John River, or Bay of Fundy are available.

Mobility Accessibility

Saint John Transit buses are accessible.
Accessible taxis may be available by calling taxi companies in advance.
Check individual attraction websites for specific accessibility details, as older buildings may have limitations.

Important Accessibility Note

Older historical buildings may have accessibility limitations.
Some historic sites may have stairs or uneven surfaces.
Contact specific attractions in advance to confirm their accessibility features.
This helps you plan your visit effectively if you have mobility needs.

Plan routes considering inclines and terrain, especially in Uptown.
Check for any temporary accessibility advisories or construction affecting pathways.
Look for accessible parking options near attractions if driving.

Final Transport Note

Whether you prefer exploring on foot, using public transit, driving, or enjoying a scenic ferry ride, Saint John presents a range of options to suit your travel style.

Plan your movements to make the most of your time exploring this dynamic Canadian city.

Getting Around Saint John