Itinerary Suggestions: Saint John

-Hour Layover Highlights

Make the most of a short visit by focusing on Uptown attractions.

Explore Saint John City Market, the historic streets of Trinity Royal Preservation Area, and the New Brunswick Museum.

Highlights

Morning: Saint John City Market, Trinity Royal area.
Lunch: At the City Market or a local uptown eatery.
Afternoon: New Brunswick Museum, Harbour Passage, Reversing Falls Rapids.

Extended Stays & Interests

Discover sample itineraries for longer stays and routes tailored to specific interests.

Weekend Getaway 2-3 Days

A comprehensive visit for a short trip, balancing city exploration with natural beauty.

Sample Plan

Day 1: Arrive, Uptown exploration (Market, Trinity Royal), dinner.
Day 2: Reversing Falls, Irving Nature Park or Rockwood Park, fine dining.
Day 3: Carleton Martello Tower, optional day trip or departure.

Consider booking a historical walking tour for Day 1.

One-Week Comprehensive Experience

A dive into Saint John and its surrounding regions, making varied excursions.

Extended Itinerary

Days 1-2: Saint John city exploration, add Imperial Theatre, museums.
Day 3: Full day to Fundy Trail Parkway and St. Martins (sea caves, hiking).
Day 4: Day trip to St. Andrews by-the-Sea (Kingsbrae Garden, whale watching).

Interest-Based Routes: History & Food

Tailor your Saint John trip to historical exploration or culinary delights.

Historical Pursuits

Uptown walking tours (Trinity Royal), Loyalist House, NB Museum.
Carleton Martello Tower, historic churches like Stone Church.
Consider a day trip to Gagetown for Loyalist village charm.

Interest-Based Routes: Adventure & Art

For adventure seekers or art and architecture enthusiasts.

Adventure & Outdoors

Whale watching, Reversing Falls Zip Line or jet boat tour.
Hiking or biking in Rockwood Park or Irving Nature Park.
Day trip to Fundy Trail Parkway for extensive hiking and coastal views.

Long-Term Stay Recommendations

For longer stays, renting a vacation apartment with kitchen facilities is a great idea.

Local Immersion

This allows for slower exploration and immersion in local life.

Cost Benefits

Cost savings on meals with self-catering options.

Exploration

Explore more distant day trips or spend more time hiking and cycling in the region's parks.

Itinerary Tip

Always check the tide tables for Reversing Falls Rapids to see it at its most dramatic.

Budget & Seasonal Travel

Travel Saint John according to your budget and discover distinct experiences throughout the year.

Backpacker's Guide

Stay in a budget motel or consider Airbnb rooms. Cook some meals from groceries purchased at supermarkets.

Cost-Effective Travel

Utilize Saint John Transit or walk extensively.
Focus on free attractions like City Market, King Square, Rockwood Park.
Look for happy hour deals at pubs for affordable dining.

Bundle activities where possible if discounts are offered.

Mid-Range Traveler's Itinerary

Stay in a comfortable mid-range hotel or B&B. Enjoy meals at local casual to mid-range restaurants.

Mid-Range Activities

Take a guided walking tour or a scenic boat tour.
Visit paid attractions like the New Brunswick Museum and Carleton Martello Tower.
Consider a day trip by rental car to St. Martins or St. Andrews.

Luxury Experience Plan

Indulge in premium services and exclusive experiences during your stay.

Premium Offerings

Stay at a luxury hotel, for example, Hilton or Chateau Saint John, with harbour views.
Dine at fine dining establishments like Port City Royal or East Coast Bistro.
Arrange private guided tours or bespoke culinary experiences.

Seasonal Highlights: Summer

Summer is peak for whale watching, outdoor festivals (Busker Festival, Area 506), and beach visits (New River Beach).

Summer Activities

Optimal season for whale watching tours.
Enjoy outdoor festivals.
Visit stunning beaches and coastal parks.

Event Planning

Plan your trip around specific events like Loyalist Days in July or Area 506 Festival for music and local culture.

Winter & Off-Season Travel

Discover the quieter side of Saint John during winter and utilize off-season exploration strategies.

Winter Highlights

Winter offers quieter travel and opportunity for lower prices. Enjoy cozy pubs, indoor museums, and potentially snowshoeing or cross-country skiing in nearby parks.

Winter Activities

See the Reversing Falls in a dramatic winter setting.
Enjoy cozy pubs and indoor museums.
Snowshoeing or cross-country skiing in parks.

Dress warmly for coastal winds and colder temperatures.

Family-Friendly Itinerary

Plan your trip to Saint John with activities suitable for all ages and family enjoyment.

Activities for Families

Visit the New Brunswick Museum (especially natural history exhibits).
Explore Cherry Brook Zoo for wildlife encounters.
Spend time at Rockwood Park for playgrounds, trails, and Lily Lake.

Off-Season Exploration

Explore Saint John outside of peak season for a different perspective and benefits.

Advantages

Enjoy smaller crowds at attractions.
Opportunity for lower prices on accommodation and some activities.
Be aware some seasonal attractions may be closed.

Strategies

Focus on indoor activities, museums, and dining experiences.
Dress warmly for coastal winds.
Confirm operating hours before visiting.

Art & Architecture Emphasis

Focus on Uptown walking tours to appreciate Victorian architecture. Visit the Imperial Theatre and the Saint John Arts Centre.

Artistic Exploration

Explore independent art galleries throughout the city.
Admire the unique architectural styles of historic buildings.
Check show schedules at the Imperial Theatre.

Spiritual & Wellness Journey

Explore the peaceful natural settings of Rockwood Park and Irving Nature Park. Visit historic churches for quiet contemplation.

Relaxation & Reflection

Consider a local spa for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Engage in peaceful walks through nature trails.
Find moments of quiet introspection in historical settings.

Important Seasonal Notes

Weather Variability

Coastal weather can change rapidly; checking forecasts regularly is recommended.

Seasonal Closures

Always confirm operating hours, especially for outdoor and smaller tourist attractions outside peak summer.

Weather Preparedness

Remember to check seasonal operating hours and dress appropriately for the weather to fully enjoy Saint John.

Itinerary Suggestions