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Discover 12 Must-See Spots in Saint John, NB

Discover Saint John, New Brunswick

Known for its full name "Saint John" without an "s," this city is distinct from St. John's in Newfoundland. Saint John is a bustling port and industrial hub where the Saint John River meets the Bay of Fundy, famous for its Reversing Falls caused by the bay's high tides and a narrow gorge. Twice daily, the river's flow reverses, creating a unique natural phenomenon and a major tourist draw.

Aside from the Reversing Falls, Saint John boasts historic streets, museums, and art galleries, making it a popular cruise destination. Founded by Loyalists in 1783, the city's architecture is largely Victorian due to a massive fire in 1877.

For more information on the city's attractions, visit the top attractions in Saint John and find accommodation options at Where to Stay in Saint John.

1. Reversing Falls, Skywalk, and Stonehammer Geopark

Skywalk

Experience the Bay of Fundy's tides at Reversing Falls, where the river flows backward. The Skywalk offers a glass-floored observation platform for a thrilling view. Nearby Fallsview Park is part of the Stonehammer Geopark, where you can learn about the area's geology and tides.

Address: 200 Bridge Road, Saint John, New Brunswick

Official site: https://stonehammergeopark.com/experience/skywalk-saint-john/

2. Prince William Street and Historic Saint John

Historic homes in Saint John

Explore the National Historic Site of Prince William Street, showcasing Canada's finest Victorian architecture. Visit St. John's Anglican Church, one of the few buildings that survived the Great Fire, and enjoy the vibrant Market Square.

Individual tours in Saint John

3. Irving Nature Park

Irving Nature Park

This 600-acre park features diverse ecosystems and over 250 bird species. Enjoy walking trails, seal observation, and picnic areas.

Address: Sand Cove Road, Saint John, New Brunswick

4. New Brunswick Museum

New Brunswick Museum

Discover the province's natural history, culture, and art at this waterfront museum.

Address: 1 Market Square, Saint John, New Brunswick

Official site: http://www.nbm-mnb.ca/

5. Saint John City Market

Saint John City Market

Canada's oldest continuing farmer's market offers a variety of local goods.

Address: 47 Charlotte Street, Saint John, New Brunswick

Official site: http://www.sjcitymarket.ca/main.html

6. Rockwood Park

Rockwood Park

Enjoy outdoor activities in this 2,200-acre park with trails, lakes, and a golf course.

Address: 901 Foster Thurston Drive, Saint John, New Brunswick

Official site: www.rockwoodpark.ca

7. Carleton Martello Tower

Carleton Martello Tower

Visit this 1813 fort, now a museum with panoramic views.

Address: 454 Whipple Street, Saint John, New Brunswick

Official site: https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/lhn-nhs/nb/carleton

8. Loyalist House

Explore the Georgian interior of this historic home, one of the few to survive the Great Fire.

Address: Germain and Union Streets, Saint John, New Brunswick

9. Art Galleries

An art gallery exhibit in New Brunswick

Discover local art and craftsmanship in the galleries of historic uptown Saint John.

10. Imperial Theatre

Imperial Theatre

Attend performances in this century-old, beautifully restored theater.

Address: 24 Kings Square South, Saint John, New Brunswick

11. Fort Howe National Historic Site

Fort Howe National Historic Site

Enjoy stunning views from this historic site with a replica wooden blockhouse.

Address: Magazine Street, Saint John, New Brunswick

12. Cherry Brook Zoo & Vanished Kingdom

Cherry Brook Zoo and Vanished Kingdom

See a variety of animals and life-size replicas of extinct species at this zoo.

Address: 901 Foster Thurston Drive, Saint John, New Brunswick

Official site: http://www.cherrybrookzoo.com/

Where to Stay in Saint John for Sightseeing

Hotels in Saint John:

Boutique Inns in Saint John:

  • Chipman Hill Suites is a bed and breakfast set in Victorian mansions near King Square.
  • Mahogany Manor Bed and Breakfast is housed in a restored Victorian mansion.

Day Trips from Saint John

St. Martins and Fundy Trail Parkway

Sea Caves at St. Martins

Drive the scenic Fundy Trail Parkway, starting from St. Martins, to explore coastal views and hiking trails.

Official site: http://www.fundytrailparkway.com/

The Cable Ferries Route

Car ferry crossing the Saint John River

Enjoy a leisurely drive and ferry crossings along the Saint John River valley.

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