🌴 Explore St. John’s, Newfoundland & Labrador
Perched on the edge of the North Atlantic, St. John’s is the colorful, windswept capital of Newfoundland & Labrador and one of the oldest cities in North America. Known for its vibrant row houses, rich maritime history, and friendly locals, St. John’s combines old-world charm with a lively arts and music scene. From whale watching to exploring rugged coastal cliffs, this city is a true Atlantic gem.
📌 Quick Facts
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Province | Newfoundland & Labrador |
| Country | Canada |
| Population | ~112,000 (metro ~220,000) |
| Time Zone | Newfoundland Time (UTC -3:30) / NDT (UTC -2:30, DST) |
| Currency | Canadian Dollar (CAD) |
| Nearest Airport | St. John’s International Airport (YYT) |
| Languages | English |
| Climate | Oceanic – Cool summers, snowy and windy winters |
| Best Time to Visit | June to September for festivals, wildlife, and milder weather |
🧭 Top Attractions in St. John’s
🗼 Signal Hill National Historic Site
Overlooking the harbor, this historic site is where the first transatlantic wireless signal was received in 1901. It offers panoramic views, trails, and a glimpse into military history.
🌈 Jellybean Row
St. John’s is famous for its brightly painted row houses — stroll through downtown to admire this cheerful, Instagram-worthy local icon.
🌊 Cape Spear Lighthouse
The easternmost point in North America, this dramatic coastal spot features a historic lighthouse and crashing Atlantic waves.
🐳 Whale Watching & Icebergs
From May to July, witness massive icebergs and migrating humpback whales just off the coast — either by boat tour or from land.
🍴 Where to Eat & Drink
St. John’s culinary scene blends traditional Newfoundland flavors with contemporary creativity:
- Raymonds Restaurant – An award-winning fine dining spot offering elevated local fare, from cod to moose
- Chinched – A cozy eatery known for nose-to-tail dining, charcuterie, and inventive small plates
- Mallard Cottage – Located in a restored 18th-century cottage, this spot serves up rustic, locally sourced meals with heart
- Duke of Duckworth – A legendary local pub known for its laid-back vibe and the best fish & chips in town
Must-try items include Jiggs’ dinner, cod tongues, toutons, and partridgeberry desserts.
🏨 Where to Stay
St. John’s offers everything from boutique inns to big-brand hotels, often with harbor or cliffside views:
- Alt Hotel St. John’s – A modern boutique hotel overlooking the harbor with stylish rooms and central access
- Jag Hotel – A rock-and-roll-themed hotel with upscale amenities and a chic downtown vibe
- The Inn by Mallard Cottage – A charming and historic B&B located in the scenic Quidi Vidi neighborhood
- Budget options – Chain hotels and motels are available near the airport and along major roadways
🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs
Discover unique local crafts and coastal charm:
- Downtown St. John’s – Packed with art galleries, bookstores, and locally owned shops
- Quidi Vidi Village Artisan Studios – Meet local artists and purchase handmade pottery, jewelry, and prints
- Avalon Mall – A large shopping center with national retailers and local boutiques
- Souvenirs – Pick up Newfoundland Screech rum, hand-knit mittens, salt cod, or crafts featuring puffins and icebergs
🧳 Travel Information
Getting There:
- 🛫 By air: St. John’s International Airport (YYT) offers flights to major Canadian cities and seasonal international routes
- 🚗 By car: If arriving via ferry to Newfoundland, it’s about a 9-hour scenic drive from the Port aux Basques ferry terminal
- 🚢 By cruise or ferry: Some cruises and ferries connect St. John’s with other Atlantic Canadian ports
Getting Around:
- Downtown is walkable, especially for exploring shops, restaurants, and harborfront attractions
- Metrobus provides public transportation within the city
- Taxis and rideshares are available, though limited compared to larger cities
- Car rentals are recommended for exploring areas outside the city, like Cape Spear or the Irish Loop
Safety Tip: St. John’s is generally very safe and welcoming, even at night. Weather can change quickly, so dress in layers and check forecasts before venturing out.
💡 Local Tips
- 🥶 Always carry a windbreaker — even in summer, coastal winds can be brisk
- 🎶 Don’t miss a live music session at O’Reilly’s Pub or The Ship Pub, both downtown staples
- 🐟 Try a traditional screech-in ceremony to become an honorary Newfoundlander (yes, it involves rum and kissing a cod!)
- 🚶 Walk the East Coast Trail for breathtaking cliffs, ocean views, and a chance to spot whales or seabirds