The Best Things to Do in St. John’s, Newfoundland

If you’re planning a trip to Newfoundland, I want to let you in on something: St. John’s isn’t just a place to pass through – it’s the place that ties the entire journey together.

I started and ended my 10-day Newfoundland adventure here, and both times, it felt special – first as a curious newcomer, and later as someone who’d started to understand the rhythm of this island province. I still remember my first morning: sipping coffee on Water Street, the salt air in my lungs, the candy-coloured row houses climbing the hill behind me. By the time I returned, it already felt like home.

People often ask, “What are the must-do things in St. John’s?” or “Is it worth more than a day?” The short answer? Absolutely.
This city has layers – history, heart, humour – and if you give it time, you’ll see why it’s one of the most unforgettable places in Atlantic Canada.

This guide is here to help you cut through the overwhelm and get to the good stuff: the scenic hikes, the secret spots, the meals I still think about, and yes, the moment I got screeched in. (That happened on night one – more on that soon.)

Planning a longer trip? Don’t miss my Ultimate Guide to Newfoundland – it’s packed with tips, routes, and everything I wish I knew before going.

Things to do in St John’s

1. Wander Through The Battery

A colourful cliffside village that feels like a painting come to life.

If there’s one place that completely stole my heart in St. John’s, it’s The Battery. It’s at the base of Signal Hill, this neighbourhood is a vibrant cluster of tiny homes perched on the cliffs, with winding lanes and flower-lined footpaths that seem to tumble into the sea. You almost can’t believe people actually live here-but they do, and I’m a little envious.

On my first morning in St. John’s, I took my coffee and wandered through the Battery, camera in hand, completely enchanted by the colours, the textures, and the quiet magic of the place.

Why You’ll Love It:

The Battery isn’t just a spot for pretty pictures (although you’ll get plenty of those!). It’s one of the most historic parts of the city, where fishing families have lived for generations. It has a real lived-in feel-rusted mailboxes, laundry drying on lines, driftwood fences-all set against that spectacular Atlantic backdrop.

It’s also your gateway to the North Head Trail, so if you’re planning to hike it, this is where you’ll start.

What to Do:

• Stroll slowly – Honestly, the Battery is best explored on foot. Wander aimlessly. Take the stairs. Peek into side streets. Say hello to the locals (they’re incredibly friendly).
• Bring your camera – Between the views of the harbour, the jellybean houses, and the quirky details, this is prime photo territory.
• Start the North Head Trail – If you’re hiking up to Signal Hill, this is where you’ll begin (just follow Battery Road all the way in-don’t worry if it feels like you’re passing someone’s house; you’re on the right track).

📍 Location: Battery Rd, St. John’s, NL
Best time to go: Morning for soft light and fewer people, or early evening for golden hour photos.
Accessibility: Wear good shoes-lots of uneven paths and stairs!

Insider Tip:

The trail entrance to North Head is easy to miss. Look for a narrow path between homes at the end of Battery Road. It feels like you’re walking onto private property-but you’re not. I missed it the first time and circled back, so don’t be shy. And if in doubt, ask a local.

2. Signal Hill National Historic Site

Let’s start with the view that truly takes your breath away.

If you’re planning your first trip to St. John’s (or even your fifth!), Signal Hill is non-negotiable. Trust me, I’ve been here more than once, and each time, it stops me in my tracks. Sitting high above the city, this iconic site blends sweeping Atlantic views, rich history, and a few rewarding hiking trails that will make your heart beat a little faster (in the best way).

Why You’ll Love It:

Signal Hill is where the very first transatlantic wireless signal was received back in 1901 by Guglielmo Marconi. And while that’s incredible on its own, you’ll probably be just as wowed by the 360-degree views of the coastline, harbour, and jellybean-coloured houses cascading down the hill into the city.

Whether you’re a history buff, love a good scenic photo op, or just want to breathe in that fresh, salty Atlantic air, Signal Hill National Historic Site has something for everyone.

What to Do:

• Climb up to Cabot Tower – Built in 1898, it’s the crown jewel at the top and makes a perfect first photo stop.
• Take a walk around the trails – If you’re up for it, the North Head Trail is a favourite (more on that in the next section!). It’s one of the most stunning hikes in Newfoundland and one of my personal highlights of the entire trip.
• Join a Parks Canada program – If you happen to be there in the summer, keep an eye out for reenactments and guided walks hosted by Parks Canada staff in historical uniforms.

📍 Location: 230 Signal Hill Rd, St. John’s, NL
🕓 Best time to go: Mid-morning or sunset for fewer crowds and magical light for photos.
🧡 Insider tip: It’s windy. Like, really windy. Bring a windbreaker or cozy layers, even on a sunny day!

Photo Tip:

The view looking down toward the harbour from behind Cabot Tower? Absolutely postcard-worthy. 📸

Want to explore even more coastlines and epic trails? Check out my Ultimate Guide to Newfoundland for everything I packed into 10 days on the island.

3. Walk Along Water Street

Canada’s oldest street-and one of its most vibrant.

If there’s one place in St. John’s that instantly captures the city’s blend of history and personality, it’s Water Street. It’s the heart of downtown and the oldest street in Canada, but somehow it still feels young, fresh, and full of surprises.

After checking into my hotel on the first day and settling in, I spent the afternoon just wandering Water Street with no particular plan. And honestly? That’s the best way to experience it. I ducked into cozy cafés, chatted with local shop owners, and found myself snapping more photos than I expected—think colourful storefronts, quirky signage, and brick buildings that feel straight out of a storybook.

What You’ll Love:

• Charming architecture: From heritage buildings to painted facades, Water Street feels like a living postcard.
• Local boutiques: Whether you’re into handmade soaps, Newfoundland-inspired art, or gourmet treats, there’s a shop that will catch your eye. I picked up some adorable postcards and a ceramic mug that now lives on my desk at home.
• Foodie stops: The street is packed with restaurants and pubs—great for anything from a quick coffee to a full seafood dinner. (Keep an eye out for live music spilling out of the bars!)
• Street art and murals: Around nearly every corner is a pop of creativity. Don’t miss the hidden alleyways—some of the best murals are tucked there.

💡 Personal Tip: Go early in the day for shopping, then return in the evening for dinner and a lively pub vibe. If you only have time for one spot, try Rocket Bakery for a local meal and baked goods—it’s a community favourite.

🧭 Location: Runs through downtown, parallel to Harbour Drive. You can easily pair this with visits to Harbourside Park, the Terry Fox Memorial, and Duckworth Street.
🕰️ Time Needed: 1–2 hours if you’re browsing and stopping to eat; more if you’re exploring side streets and shops.

4. Hike the North Head Trail

An unforgettable cliffside trail with the best views in the city.

If you only do one hike in St. John’s, make it the North Head Trail. I can’t even describe how stunning this trail is without using all caps (but I’ll try to contain myself). This is the trail that connects The Battery to the top of Signal Hill, hugging the edge of dramatic cliffs the entire way.

I hiked it on a slightly overcast morning, and the moody sky made the ocean feel even more wild and endless. It’s one of those hikes where you keep stopping every few steps just to take in the view. And the best part? It’s right in the city.

What to Expect:

• Length: About 1.7 km one way
• Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous – not long, but there are a lot of stairs and some narrow cliffside paths
• Time: Give yourself at least an hour (longer if you stop for photos… which you will)

The trail begins where Battery Road ends-just keep walking past the homes and you’ll find the entrance. The first part winds you past rock faces and tucked-away homes, and then-bam!-you’re on a narrow trail carved into the side of the hill, with nothing but ocean below.

I passed seabirds swooping above the cliffs, wildflowers tucked into the rocks, and a few other hikers who were all equally in awe. The final push up to Signal Hill involves a serious staircase (like, serious), but the view from the top is worth every step.

Highlights Along the Trail:

• Incredible views of the harbour and city behind you as you climb
• Cliffside paths with sweeping Atlantic vistas
• A real sense of how dramatic and rugged this coastline is
• The satisfying feeling of earning that view from Cabot Tower

📍 Trailhead: End of Battery Rd, St. John’s
🥾 Trail tips: Wear hiking shoes, bring water, and avoid it on windy or wet days-it’s exposed in parts.
📸 Photo Tip: Bring a wide-angle lens if you can. The landscape is just that big.

Personal Tip:

I did this trail solo and felt completely safe, but I wouldn’t recommend doing it in poor weather-some of the paths are narrow with steep drops. On a sunny day, though? It’s pure magic. I’d do it again in a heartbeat.

5. Visit The Queen’s Battery & Barracks

A quiet, scenic corner of Signal Hill filled with history and killer views.

While most people make a beeline straight for Cabot Tower, not everyone wanders down to the Queen’s Battery-and honestly, that’s what makes it feel like a hidden gem.

After hiking up to Signal Hill (especially if you’ve just powered through the North Head Trail), I took a quieter path down toward the coastline, following the Centre to Citadel Trail. Within a few minutes, I reached a grassy bluff overlooking the sea-and there it was: the Queen’s Battery and the old stone barracks, perched dramatically above the crashing waves.

There was something so peaceful about this spot. The crowds were gone, the air was salty, and I could almost imagine what it must’ve felt like for the soldiers stationed there long ago, watching the horizon for incoming ships.

Why You Shouldn’t Skip This:

• Historical ruins you can walk right up to-stone walls, bunkers, and lookout posts
• An unobstructed ocean view that feels like the edge of the world
• It’s the perfect place to take a breather after climbing up from town
• You’ll get a deeper appreciation for the area’s military past

📍 Location: Short walk from Cabot Tower (follow the signs or take the trail)
🕰️ Time: Plan for about 30 minutes to explore the area slowly
🧭 Trail Info: The Centre to Citadel Trail is about 0.5 km and takes ~10 minutes

Tip: Bring a snack or drink and sit on the grass near the battery walls. It’s quieter than the main lookout and gives you that “just discovered something special” feeling.

6. Explore Quidi Vidi – St. John’s Picture-Perfect Seaside Village

A tiny harbour village with big charm, history, and the best beer views in town.

If there’s one place in St. John’s that completely stole my heart, it was Quidi Vidi. After returning from a whirlwind road trip around Newfoundland, I checked into an Airbnb right in the village so I could slow down, soak it all in, and actually live in the peaceful rhythm of this seaside community. And honestly? It was the perfect call.

Quidi Vidi (pronounced “kiddy viddy”) is a pocket-sized harbour tucked between cliffs, with colourful boats bobbing in the water, wooden houses perched right on the edge, and a boardwalk that seems made for long, slow walks. Waking up to the sound of gulls and watching the sun rise over the still water made my stay here unforgettable.

What to Do in Quidi Vidi

• Sip and savour at Quidi Vidi Brewery: After a morning walk, you can head up to the brewery-because honestly, what’s better than fresh seafood, cold drink, and panoramic views over the harbour? They often have live music too, which makes it feel like a little party in the middle of the day.
• Explore the Artisan Studios: These working studios are home to local artists and craftspeople—think pottery, jewellery, handwoven textiles, and woodwork. I loved chatting with the makers and learning the stories behind their work.
• Walk the boardwalks: There’s something so peaceful about wandering past the sheds and docks, spotting jellyfish in the water or chatting with locals who’ve lived here for decades. It’s slow travel in the best possible way.
• Book a stay here: If you have the chance, stay overnight in Quidi Vidi. The village becomes incredibly quiet and serene after the day-trippers leave. Watching the sunset from the deck of my Airbnb, tea in hand and a blanket around my shoulders, was one of the coziest moments of my entire trip.
• Photography heaven: Every single corner of this place is photo-worthy-from weathered wood textures and fishing gear to boats reflecting in the water and moody skies rolling in from the coast. Golden hour is magic here.

Why You Should Go:

• One of the most charming and photogenic spots in all of St. John’s
• A hub for local creativity, food, and storytelling
• Easy to explore in a few hours—but so lovely, you’ll want to stay longer
• Perfect for solo travellers, couples, and slow explorers like me

📍 Location: Quidi Vidi Village Road, about 10 minutes from downtown St. John’s by car or on foot via the Signal Hill trail.

⏱️ How Much Time to Spend: Minimum 2–3 hours, but if you can, stay overnight.

💡 Insider Tip: Some of the best photos are taken from the far side of the harbour-look for the wooden bench tucked into the grass near the waterline.

What to Pack for St. John’s, Newfoundland

The weather in St. John’s can be unpredictable (in the best way). Whether you’re hiking, walking the downtown, or hopping on a boat tour, here’s what I recommend bringing – based on what I actually used (and wish I had!).

Essentials:

• Layers, layers, layers: Think T-shirts, sweaters, a light fleece.
• Waterproof jacket or windbreaker: Absolute must. Even sunny mornings can end misty.
• Comfortable walking shoes: You’ll be climbing stairs, wandering trails, and navigating cobblestone sidewalks.
• Waterproof hiking boots (if doing serious hikes like the East Coast Trail or Cape Spear).
• Daypack or tote: Perfect for snacks, water, and a camera.

Other smart additions:

• Reusable water bottle
• Hat + sunglasses (yes, even when cloudy)
• Travel umbrella
• Gloves & toque (if visiting outside June–Sept)
• Swimsuit (Middle Cove & nearby spots are cold but gorgeous)
• A small power bank
• Bug spray (for coastal trails)

💡 Tip: No need to overpack. St. John’s is casual – you’ll be fine in cozy, functional clothes even for dinners out.

Newfoundland Travel Checklist (Specifically for St. John’s)

Here’s a mini pre-trip checklist you can screenshot or save:

✔️ Book your accommodations early – St. John’s gets busy in summer
✔️ Reserve your screech-in (Christian’s Bar is a fave)
✔️ Pack layers + waterproof gear
✔️ Rent a car if you’re planning to visit Cape Spear, Petty Harbour, or hike off the main trails
✔️ Look up showtimes at LSPU Hall or check for live music on George Street
✔️ Save restaurant spots in Google Maps – many are walk-in only
✔️ Download offline maps (cell service is great in town, but patchy on trails)
✔️ Check puffin/whale/iceberg calendars if your trip depends on seeing them
✔️ Read my full Ultimate Guide to Newfoundland for road trip tips, day trips & small town detours!

Downloadable Map: My Saved St. John’s Favourites

(Available as a Google My Maps link)

Includes:

• Restaurants & cafés I loved
• Best views (sunrise, sunset, photo spots)
• Scenic hikes and off-the-beaten-path detours
• Boat tours, galleries, and local music venues
• Cute neighbourhoods like Jelly Bean Row + Quidi Vidi

Wrapping It Up: Final Thoughts on St. John’s

Whether you’re here for just a day or a couple of days like I did, St. John’s wraps around you in the most unexpected way – with its craggy coastline, wild history, and famously warm-hearted locals.

Start your morning at Cape Spear, end your night getting screeched in, and in between, let the sea air and steep hills guide you to somewhere unforgettable. It’s a place where music spills into the streets, strangers become friends, and you leave already planning your return.

→ Want more Newfoundland? Check out my full Ultimate Guide to Newfoundland Road Trips – complete with charming small towns, dramatic cliffs, puffins, whales, and everything in between.