Saint John isn’t just a stopover—it’s a destination. Perched on the edge of the Bay of Fundy, this historic port city blends salty sea air with an unexpected artsy edge, giving visitors more than a few reasons to stick around. Whether you’re road-tripping in from Moncton or hopping on a flight from Toronto, here’s a curated list of things to do in SJ—no matter the season.
10 Things to do in SJ
1. The Gathering Place: A Fresh Take on Saint John’s Waterfront
One of the newest attractions in Saint John, The Gathering Place is a must-visit along Harbour Passage. This open-air space connects the city to the sea, offering prime views of the working port and passing cruise ships. Whether you're grabbing a coffee from a nearby café or just soaking in the salty air, this is the kind of place that makes you slow down and appreciate the moment.
2. The Saint John City Market: The Oldest in Canada, Still the Best
If you’re making a list of things to do in SJ, this historic gem should be near the top. The Saint John City Market has been serving up local goods since 1876, with a ship’s-hull ceiling and a lineup of butchers, bakers, and coffee makers. Grab a dulse snack (yes, people eat seaweed here on purpose) and some fresh seafood before exploring the rest of uptown.
3. Trinity Galleries: Art, Jazz, and a Touch of Saint John Charm
One of the more unexpected attractions in Saint John, Trinity Galleries blends fine art with live jazz, making for a culture-packed stop in the heart of the city. This uptown staple showcases contemporary paintings, sculpture, and mixed media from Atlantic Canadian artists, and if you time it right, you might just catch a live music performance.
4. Imperial Theatre: Vintage Glamour Meets Top-Tier Entertainment
If live performances are your thing, the Imperial Theatre is one of the top things to do in SJ. With its gilded balconies, velvet seats, and grand old-world vibe, this venue hosts everything from concerts to comedy shows. The stunning architecture alone is worth a visit, but the shows make it a Saint John must-see.
5. Moosehead Brewery Tour: Canada’s Oldest Independent Brewery
No trip to Saint John is complete without a sip of the city’s most famous export. The Moosehead Brewery Tour takes visitors behind the scenes of Canada’s oldest independent brewery, in operation since 1867. The best part? The tastings, of course.
6. The AREA 506 Container Village: A Shipping Container Wonderland
It started as a music festival and became one of the coolest waterfront attractions in Saint John. Built from repurposed shipping containers, this lively hub houses local shops, food vendors, and the occasional live performance. Even in the off-season, Area 506 is a fun spot to check out, especially if you love indie businesses and street-style eats.
7. Stonehammer Geopark: Hike on a 1-Billion-Year-Old Landscape
For outdoor enthusiasts looking for things to do in SJ, Stonehammer Geopark delivers. A UNESCO-designated site, this park offers year-round hiking and guided tours showcasing some of the oldest rocks on Earth. In winter, try rock climbing at Dominion Park for an adrenaline rush with a view.
8. The Saint John Nightlife Scene: Where History Meets Hops
Saint John’s bar scene is packed with character—literally. From the speakeasy vibes of Hopscotch Whisky Bar to the craft beer haven that is Picaroons General Store, this city knows how to pour a drink. If live music is your thing, hit up McGill’s or O’Leary’s for a proper Maritime pub experience.
9. Wolastoq Park: A Hidden Gem with a View
Tucked above the Reversing Falls Bridge, Wolastoq Park is part lookout, part history lesson, and part hidden gem. The walking trails wind through statues and plaques honoring Saint John’s past, all while offering stunning panoramic views of the river and the Bay of Fundy. Whether it’s a crisp winter morning or a breezy summer evening, it’s worth the stop.
10. Glass Roots Studio: The Art of Fire and Glass
For a hands-on experience unlike any other, Glass Roots Studio is a must-visit. This working glass-blowing studio lets you watch local artists manipulate molten glass into stunning pieces—or, if you’re feeling bold, you can try it yourself in one of their workshops. If you’re looking for attractions in Saint John that go beyond sightseeing, this is the place.
Saint John isn’t a city you rush through—it’s one you settle into. Whether you’re sipping a local brew, watching the tides roll in, or wandering the historic streets, there’s always something unexpected around the corner. And if you weren’t planning on staying a little longer…well, that might change once you get here.
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