Welcome to St. John’s, Canada

St. John’s, the capital of Newfoundland and Labrador, is the oldest city in North America, steeped in history and known for its colorful row houses, dramatic coastline, and rich maritime culture. Located on the eastern tip of Newfoundland, this picturesque city offers a unique blend of urban charm and rugged natural beauty. Visitors can explore its charming streets, historic landmarks, and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. With 6-10 hours to explore, cruise passengers can dive into the local history, discover fascinating museums, and enjoy the hospitality of St. John’s friendly locals.

Cruise Docking Information

Cruise ships dock at the Port of St. John’s, located right in the heart of the city. The downtown area is within walking distance of the cruise terminal, making it easy to explore on foot. The port can accommodate medium to large ships, and it welcomes thousands of cruise passengers each year, particularly in the summer and fall. From the port, visitors can easily access many of the city’s key attractions, including Signal Hill, Water Street, and the iconic Jellybean Row houses.

Transportation Options

St. John’s is a compact and walkable city, but there are several transportation options for those who want to explore further:

• Walking: Many of the city’s top attractions, including the waterfront, Signal Hill, and the Rooms Museum, are within a 10-20 minute walk from the cruise port.
• Taxis: Taxis are readily available at the cruise terminal and can take you to nearby landmarks, such as Cape Spear or Quidi Vidi Village, for around $15-20 CAD.
• Public Buses: Metrobus is the public transit system in St. John’s, offering bus routes throughout the city. Fares are about $2.50 CAD per ride.
• Car Rentals: Rental cars are available at agencies near the port, offering more flexibility for those wanting to explore beyond the city center.

Nearby Towns and Cities

While St. John’s itself is the main attraction, there are a few nearby areas worth visiting if you have more time:

• Quidi Vidi Village: 5 km (3 miles) away, about 10 minutes by car. This charming fishing village is known for its scenic harbor, Quidi Vidi Brewery, and hiking trails.
• Cape Spear: 15 km (9 miles) away, about 20 minutes by car. The easternmost point in North America, Cape Spear offers stunning coastal views and a historic lighthouse.
• Petty Harbour: 18 km (11 miles) away, about 25 minutes by car. A picturesque fishing village known for its historic charm and whale-watching opportunities.

Local Foods

St. John’s is known for its fresh seafood and traditional Newfoundland cuisine, offering visitors a true taste of the Atlantic. Be sure to try these local specialties:

• Cod Tongues: A Newfoundland delicacy, these small pieces of cod are pan-fried and served with scrunchions (fried pork fat).
• Jigg’s Dinner: A traditional Sunday meal consisting of boiled salt beef, potatoes, carrots, cabbage, and pease pudding.
• Fish and Chips: Freshly caught Atlantic cod, battered and fried to perfection, served with chips and tartar sauce.
• Toutons: Fried dough, often served with molasses or butter, commonly eaten for breakfast or as a snack.
• Newfoundland Screech: A local rum that’s often paired with a traditional "Screech-In" ceremony, where visitors become honorary Newfoundlanders.

Top 5 Attractions

St. John’s is full of history, culture, and natural beauty. Here are the top five must-see attractions during your visit:

• Signal Hill National Historic Site: Offering panoramic views of the city and harbor, Signal Hill is where Guglielmo Marconi received the first transatlantic wireless signal in 1901. Free to explore, with a visitor center and guided tours available.
• The Rooms: St. John’s premier cultural space, combining a museum, art gallery, and archives, showcasing the history and culture of Newfoundland and Labrador. Entry is around $10 CAD per person.
• Cape Spear Lighthouse: The easternmost point in North America, Cape Spear features a historic lighthouse and breathtaking coastal views. Free to visit, with guided tours available for a fee.
• Jellybean Row: Stroll along the colorful row houses of Jellybean Row, one of the city’s most iconic sights. Free to explore.
• George Street: Known for its lively nightlife, George Street is packed with pubs, bars, and live music venues, offering a taste of St. John’s famous hospitality. Free to explore, with plenty of dining and entertainment options.

Interesting Facts

St. John’s is a city rich in history and local traditions. Here are a few interesting facts about this unique destination:

• St. John’s is the oldest city in North America, with a history dating back over 500 years to when John Cabot first arrived in 1497.
• The city’s colorful row houses, known as "Jellybean Row," are famous worldwide and add to St. John’s vibrant charm.
• St. John’s is home to George Street, which is reputed to have the most bars and pubs per capita of any street in North America.

Geographical Position and Surroundings

St. John’s is located on the eastern coast of Newfoundland, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. The city’s harbor is naturally protected by steep cliffs and is accessed via a narrow channel known as "The Narrows." The rugged landscape around St. John’s is characterized by rolling hills, dramatic coastlines, and vast wilderness. Cape Spear, located just outside the city, is the easternmost point in North America, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic. St. John’s proximity to the ocean makes it a popular spot for whale watching, iceberg viewing, and other outdoor adventures.

Local Customs and Culture

Newfoundlanders are known for their friendliness and warm hospitality, and St. John’s is no exception. Visitors are often welcomed with open arms, and it’s common to strike up conversations with locals in shops, pubs, or on the street. The city has a strong connection to the sea, and many of its traditions revolve around fishing and maritime culture. Visitors may be invited to participate in a "Screech-In" ceremony, a fun local tradition where newcomers drink a shot of Newfoundland Screech rum and kiss a codfish to become honorary Newfoundlanders. Tipping is customary in restaurants and for services, with 15-20% being the norm.

Family-Friendly Activities

St. John’s offers plenty of activities for families with children of all ages:

• Children up to 6 years old: Visit Bowring Park, where young children can enjoy the playgrounds, splash pads, and duck ponds.
• Children 7-12 years old: Explore Signal Hill, where kids can learn about the city’s history while enjoying the scenic views and hiking trails.
• Teenagers 13-18 years old: Take a boat tour from the harbor to see whales, puffins, and icebergs up close, offering a thrilling adventure for teens.

Google Maps

St. John's