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Things to Do in St Johns

Things to Do in St Johns

St Johns Newfoundland And Labrador, Canada Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures in St. John's

The rugged coastline and natural beauty surrounding St. John's deliver a perfect playground for outdoor enthusiasts.

Hiking & Wildlife Encounters

Signal Hill Trails

Signal Hill has various trails, from paved paths for leisurely strolls to rugged coastal trails like the North Head Trail, connecting Cabot Tower to the Battery.

Whale Watching

Humpback, minke, and fin whales are common from June to August. Boat tours from the harbour or Bay Bulls specialize in finding these magnificent creatures.

Puffin Viewing

The Witless Bay Ecological Reserve, just south of St. John's, hosts North America's largest Atlantic Puffin colony. Boat tours visit this reserve, providing close-up views.

Water & Cycling Activities

  • Boat Tours: Depart from the harbour and nearby communities for whale watching, iceberg viewing, and puffin tours. Operators like O'Brien's Tours operate from Bay Bulls.
  • Iceberg Viewing: The best time for viewing icebergs is from late May to early July. Spot them from coastal vantage points or via boat tours.
  • Kayaking/Paddleboarding: Rent kayaks or paddleboards for guided tours in the calm harbour waters or on nearby ponds, a different perspective of the coastline.
  • Cycling Routes: The Grand Concourse Trail system includes paved and unpaved multi-use trails around the city, suitable for leisurely rides and scenic views.

East Coast Trail Highlights

  • A 336 km network of developed coastal hiking trails.
  • Several sections accessible from St. John's.
  • Sugarloaf Path: Challenging trek with rewarding views.
  • Father Troy's Trail: A moderate hiking option.

Adventure Sports

  • While not a hub for extreme sports, the rugged coastal environment supports activities.
  • Sea kayaking tours.
  • Exploring sea caves with guided tours.
  • Unique coastal exploration opportunities.

Winter Activities

  • Cross-country skiing in Pippy Park, when snow conditions permit.
  • Winter hiking on accessible trails.
  • Enjoying less crowded attractions.
  • Cozy indoor activities in the city.

Safety Alert

Coastal trails can be rugged and exposed. Weather changes quickly; layers are advisable. Be aware of conditions and stay on marked paths for safety.

Cultural Immersion in St. John's

Immerse yourself in St. John's unique culture through its traditions, music, and community spirit.

Traditional Experiences

  • George Street Pubs: Live traditional Newfoundland music, including Irish folk and sea shanties, is common, especially on weekends.
  • "Screech-In" Ceremony: A light-hearted ceremony in various pubs welcoming visitors as honorary Newfoundlanders, involving Screech rum and kissing a codfish.
  • Quidi Vidi Village: Provides a glimpse into a working traditional fishing community. Support local artisans and businesses within the village.
  • Language Learning Opportunities: While English is the main language, the local dialect, "Newfinese," has a distinct accent and unique vocabulary. Engaging with locals delivers the best way to learn common phrases.

Artisan & Community Engagement

Workshops and Classes

Formal tourist workshops for traditional crafts or arts are limited. However, some local craft shops may offer informal demonstrations or short sessions. Inquire locally for current opportunities.

Community-Based Tourism Initiatives

Quidi Vidi Village has a good example of local engagement. Support small, independent local businesses.

Local Expertise

Ask locals for recommendations on events or places that present a truly authentic cultural experience.

George Street Festival

This multi-day music festival takes place in late July or early August, bringing a lively atmosphere to the city's famous street.

Royal St. John's Regatta

Held on the first Wednesday of August (weather permitting) on Quidi Vidi Lake. It is North America's oldest continuous sporting event, with a lively fairground atmosphere.

St. John's Folk Arts Festival

Typically held in July, this festival showcases local music, dance, and storytelling, celebrating Newfoundland's rich artistic traditions.

Relaxation & Wellness in St. John's

St. John's has options for relaxation and well-being after active days of exploration.

Spa and Wellness Center Recommendations

  • Hotel Spas: Several hotels in St. John's include spa services, including massages and various treatments.
  • Independent Spas: Independent spas are also available throughout the city. Search for "spas St. John's NL" to find options.
  • Hot Springs and Natural Therapy Options: Newfoundland and Labrador does not have natural hot springs.
  • Yoga and Meditation Retreats: Formal yoga and meditation retreats are limited within St. John's itself. Various yoga studios in the city deliver drop-in classes for visitors.

Wellness Activities in Nature

Coastal Walks

Enjoy peaceful strolls along the St. John's harbour front or quieter sections of the East Coast Trail for rejuvenation.

Park Retreats

Pippy Park, a large urban park, has extensive trails perfect for gentle walks and quiet reflection amidst nature.

Café Culture

Relax in one of the many local cafes with a warm beverage, observing local life and soaking in the city's ambiance.

Beyond the City for Relaxation

Day Trips

Explore nearby coastal towns for a change of pace and scenic drives, finding quieter spots to unwind.

Quiet Retreats

Look for guesthouses or cottages outside the city for more secluded relaxation experiences.

Nature Connection

Consider forest walks in provincial parks for a connection to nature and a tranquil escape.

Entertainment & Nightlife in St. John's

St. John's, especially George Street, offers a lively entertainment and nightlife scene.

Live Music Venues

  • George Street: Famous for its concentration of pubs and bars, almost all feature live music. Many venues showcase local folk, traditional, and rock bands.
  • O'Reilly's Irish Pub: A popular choice for traditional Irish and Newfoundland music, known for its authentic atmosphere.
  • Trapper John's: Another classic George Street spot, known for its lively atmosphere and often boisterous crowds.
  • YellowBelly Brewery & Public House: This brewpub often hosts live music downstairs, delivering a more relaxed setting than the typical George Street pub.

Theater & Pub Culture

Theater and Performance Spaces

Arts & Culture Centre: This venue hosts touring acts, local theatre productions, and concerts, delivering a diverse range of performances.

LSPU Hall Longshoremen's Protective Union Hall

Home to local and independent theatre, offering a more intimate setting for artistic performances.

Nightclubs and Dancing

Mainly concentrated on George Street, you will find various establishments catering to dancing and a nightclub atmosphere.

Late-Night Entertainment

  • Restaurants and pubs on George Street typically stay open late.
  • Especially lively on weekends.
  • Many venues continue music well into the night.
  • Diverse options for late evening enjoyment.

Event Schedule

  • Check local listings for special concerts.
  • Look for unique performances during your visit.
  • Seasonal events might feature late-night shows.
  • Online event calendars are helpful resources.

Social Scene

  • George Street's compact nature makes pub crawls popular.
  • Many are self-guided or organized by local tour groups.
  • The welcoming atmosphere makes meeting locals easy.
  • A social hub for visitors.

Planning Your Evening

Downtown Focus
  • Most nightlife concentrates on George Street, making it a central spot.
  • The main bar district is compact and walkable once you are in the downtown area.
  • Taxi services are readily available, especially from George Street, for transportation.
Weekend Vibes
  • Weekends are livelier, with more live music and larger crowds in the pubs.
  • Some venues might have cover charges, especially on popular nights or for special acts.
  • Budget for drinks and possible food if you plan to stay out late.

Traveler's Note

George Street can get very busy, especially after 10 PM. Arrive early for popular venues. Dress code is generally casual.

Shopping & Markets in St. John's

Discover unique souvenirs, local crafts, and traditional markets in St. John's.

Artisan & Local Crafts

  • Traditional Markets: The St. John's Farmers' Market operates seasonally on Saturdays. It offers local produce, baked goods, prepared foods, and artisan crafts.
  • Artisan Workshops and Crafts: Formal tourist workshops for traditional crafts are limited. However, some local craft shops may offer informal demonstrations or short sessions.
  • Devon House Craft Centre: This center showcases local artisans and their work, delivering a good place to find authentic Newfoundland crafts.
  • Quidi Vidi Village: Several small artisan shops in this picturesque village offer unique handmade items, providing a charming shopping experience.

Souvenirs & Unique Finds

Puffin & Local Items

Find puffin-themed items like plush toys, clothing, and art. Local artisan crafts include pottery, knitted goods, and handmade jewelry.

Food & Drink Souvenirs

Local food products like Purity confections, partridgeberry jam, and bakeapple products make great gifts. Screech rum or local craft beer from Quidi Vidi Brewery or YellowBelly Brewery are also popular.

Luxury and Boutique Shopping

St. John's has limited luxury shopping. The focus leans towards local boutiques and independent shops rather than international luxury brands, with unique, locally sourced items.

Unique Gifts

  • Handmade pottery and ceramics.
  • Authentic knitted goods, including traditional 'Newfoundland' mittens.
  • Jewelry with local themes or materials.
  • Artwork inspired by Newfoundland landscapes.

Ethical Shopping

  • Support local artisans and businesses directly.
  • Your money directly benefits the community.
  • Look for products made in Newfoundland and Labrador.
  • Inquire about sustainable practices where applicable.

Shipping & Customs

  • If purchasing large items, inquire about shipping options from local shops.
  • Be aware of your home country's customs regulations.
  • Keep receipts for any significant purchases.
  • Check rules for bringing food items across borders.

Downtown Shopping Districts

Water Street
  • Main shopping street with a mix of boutiques, gift shops, and restaurants.
  • Historic buildings house modern stores, blending old and new.
  • Close proximity to the harbour provides scenic views during your shopping.
Duckworth Street
  • Parallel to Water Street, with more art galleries, unique boutiques, and cafes.
  • A good place to find local art and enjoy a coffee break.
  • Features charming architecture and a more relaxed atmosphere compared to bustling Water Street.

Shopping Tip

Many independent shops and galleries in downtown St. John's have unique items. Support local artists and businesses to find genuinely authentic souvenirs.

Activity Planning Summary

Adventure & Culture Highlights

  • Outdoor Exploration: Hiking on the East Coast Trail, boat tours for whales and icebergs, and puffin viewing.
  • Cultural Discovery: Immerse yourself in museums, historical sites, and local art galleries.
  • Live Entertainment: Experience nightlife at George Street pubs with traditional music and theatre shows.
  • Unique Shopping: Explore artisan markets and local boutiques for distinct souvenirs.

Wellness & Logistics Overview

  • Relaxation: Find rejuvenation through spa services, tranquil parks, and peaceful coastal walks.
  • Timing: Peak season (July-August) bookings are needed far in advance for popular activities and accommodation.
  • Transportation: Downtown is walkable, but a car is often useful for wider exploration of surrounding areas and natural attractions.
  • Budgeting: St. John's has varied options from budget to luxury, so plan your expenses accordingly for activities, dining, and lodging.