SAINT JOHN
Big Vibes, Bigger Tides
While Saint John, New Brunswick may be rooted in its 18th-century history as Canada’s oldest incorporated city, today it’s a bustling port buzzing with indie art, an incredible food and beverage scene, unlimited shopping opportunities, a sea of natural wonders (literally) – and a litany of preserved landmarks, sprawling museums and cobblestone streets just begging to be explored.
Spend your time here strolling the whimsical labyrinth of downtown Saint John where you’ll find a compact and character-rich hub of Victorian architecture, vibrant murals and a bodacious boardwalk humming with live music and warm locals slinging locally-brewed beers. Head to Area 506, a Waterfront Container Village that flawlessly showcases New Brunswick music, culture and goods with a diverse collection of retail shops, food trucks, local artist pop-ups and performance spaces – all wrapped up in over 60 up-cycled shipping containers.
Be sure to make your way to the Reversing Falls, a tidal phenomenon where the Bay of Fundy forces the Saint John River to flow backwards, creating the highest tides in the whole world. Hike the rocky coastline of Irving Nature Park, head out to witness the sea caves and red sandstone cliffs of St. Martins and bike the path along Harbour Passage. There’s so much to do and see in Saint John you might just have to find yourself on the Saint John Skywalk to take in the panoramic views.
Be sure to make your way to the Reversing Falls, a tidal phenomenon where the Bay of Fundy forces the Saint John River to flow backwards, creating the highest tides in the whole world. Hike the rocky coastline of Irving Nature Park, head out to witness the sea caves and red sandstone cliffs of St. Martins and bike the path along Harbour Passage. There’s so much to do and see in Saint John you might just have to find yourself on the Saint John Skywalk to take in the panoramic views.
Shore Excursions
Saint John Samplings
Wondrous wildlife, succulent servings & ample adventures.
Ride the Tides: Bay of Fundy Whale Watch
Hold on tight — this isn’t your average whale watch. Speed across Passamaquoddy Bay in a high-powered zodiac, cutting through strong tidal currents as you scan the waves for eagles, seals, and porpoises. Then, head into open waters of the Bay of Fundy where finbacks, minkes, and (if you’re lucky) humpbacks make a splash. After the ride, unwind in St. Andrews, a charming seaside town with quaint shops and restaurants. Whales aren’t guaranteed, but heart-pounding adventure? 100%.
Sip, Savor & Stroll: A Foodie Walk in Saint John
Foodies, this one’s for you. Kick things off with a sweet treat before diving into a seafood surprise, then wander the historic Old City Market to sample dulse — a Bay of Fundy favorite (think ocean-kissed popcorn, but an acquired taste). Sip a glass of wine at a local bar while savoring hand-stretched, wood-fired pizza with a Saint John twist. And for the grand finale? A warm, maple-glazed Beavertail pastry. Come hungry, leave happy — maybe even a little full, but zero regrets.
Fire, Tides & Indigenous Traditions
Under an open sky, beside the Bay of Fundy's ever-moving tides, gather around a crackling fire as an Indigenous interpreter shares stories passed through generations. Learn the history of the Wolastoq and Mi’kmaq peoples while sipping locally harvested tea and roasting Bannock, a symbol of cultural resilience. With the river and the sea locked in an endless cycle, take a moment to listen — not just to the stories, but to the land itself.
More Shore Things for your wishlist...
We have even more in our curated catalog.
Come hungry, because Saint John is home to North America’s oldest operating Farmer’s Market
The Saint John Market opened in 1876, and is still plugging along!
Shore Excursions
The Ultimate Saint John Experience
From reversing rapids to sea caves and city sights, this adventure hits all the must-sees of Saint John and the breathtaking Bay of Fundy.
DISCOVER MORE SHORE THINGS
Canada’s oldest incorporated city, Saint John, New Brunswick, may be steeped in 18th-century history — but it’s anything but stuck in the past. This coastal stunner blends old-school charm and a spanning maritime history with a thriving arts scene, crave-worthy eats, indie shops, and some seriously instagrammable nature.
Wander the mural-splashed streets of downtown, where Victorian architecture meets sea breeze and local beer and succulent seafood is ever-present on the bounding boardwalk. Hit up the vibrant Area 506 Waterfront Container Village, a creative collision of food trucks, shops, and live music — all tucked into repurposed shipping containers. Then feel the pulse of the Bay of Fundy at the Reversing Falls, where the tides literally change the river’s direction. Hike the craggy trails at Irving Nature Park, explore sandstone sea caves in St. Martins, or cruise the bike path along Harbour Passage. For views you won’t forget, head to the Saint John Skywalk and take it all in — tides, skyline, and all.
Set Sail the Virgin Way
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