Uptown Saint John, the heart of New Brunswick's largest city, showcases its rich history with undeniable pride. Framed by the scenic splendor of the Bay of Fundy and enriched with over 400 years of narratives, this district presents a captivating mix of historical sites, cultural hubs, and modern festivities. For those eager to dive into the vibrant essence of this area, here is a specially curated guide to the best experiences in uptown Saint John, also called downtown Saint John, NB.
Uptown Vibes
Why is Uptown Saint John Not Called Downtown Saint John, NB
The naming convention of "Uptown" in Saint John, New Brunswick, instead of "Downtown" is rooted in Saint John NB's history and geography. Unlike many cities where the central business district is referred to as "Downtown," in Saint John, the central area is called "Uptown." This unique naming is due to its geographic orientation and the city's development. Saint John's Uptown BIA is situated on a hill above the port area, and historically, people would go "up" from the docks to the heart of the city, thus earning the name "Uptown." This is in contrast to most cities where the central business district is usually at a lower elevation compared to the surrounding areas, or is simply the central area where activities converge. Furthermore, as one of Canada’s oldest cities, Saint John has retained much of its original terminology and layout, preserving its historical nomenclature like "Uptown," which adds to the city's unique cultural heritage.
Shop Till You Drop
Shopping in Saint John offers a unique blend of traditional charm and distinctive finds that attract visitors to its rich historical and contemporary landscape. As you stroll the lively streets of Saint John, you engage in a shopping journey that is unparalleled, with each shop and market booth enriching your experience with tales of the city’s cultural heritage and artistic innovation. Explore landmarks like the trendy Hats on the Square, where there’s something for every shopper to love. Uncover artistic treasures at Mitote Art Gallery and experience eco-conscious shopping at the Blue Pelican. Saint John not only calls on you to explore its retail gems but also invites you to dive into the city’s evolving story, where each purchase represents a snippet of maritime essence to carry home.
The Past is the Past
The heart of New Brunswick’s largest city, uptown Saint John boasts a rich history that dates back to its founding in 1785, making it Canada's first incorporated city. This area, built on a hilly peninsula at the mouth of the Saint John River, quickly became a bustling hub for trade and shipping, benefitting from its deepwater port and proximity to the Bay of Fundy. The Great Fire of 1877 reshaped uptown, leading to the construction of many of its Victorian-style buildings that remain today, giving the area a distinctive architectural charm. Over the centuries, uptown Saint John has evolved into a vibrant cultural centre, hosting numerous galleries, theatres, and artisan shops that reflect the city's creative spirit. Its historic sites, combined with modern developments, continue to make Uptown a dynamic place for both residents and tourists, offering a unique blend of old-world charm and contemporary urban life.
Must-Visit Destinations in Uptown Saint John
1. Area 506
A relatively new addition to the city's events calendar, Area 506 celebrates New Brunswick’s culture, music, and goods. Every summer, shipping containers in uptown Saint John transform into pop-up shops, stages, and cultural exhibits on the city's waterfront. It’s a festival that embodies the city’s maritime spirit and celebrates local talent.
2. King's Square
This historic public square, a hub of uptown Saint John, is surrounded by stately Georgian buildings and the majestic Loyalist Burial Ground. With its central bandstand, lush green lawns, and tree-lined pathways, King's Square is an ideal spot to relax, people-watch or enjoy some live music.
3. Imperial Theatre
Opened in 1913, this theatre uptown Saint John NB is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture. Over its century-long history, the Imperial Theatre has hosted countless performances, from vaudeville acts to modern-day concerts. Today, it's a cornerstone for the performing arts in Saint John, and attending a show here is an experience in itself.
4. Loyalist House
Built in 1817, this Georgian residence is one of the few structures that survived the Great Fire of 1877. Now a museum, Loyalist House offers a glimpse into the life of a well-to-do Loyalist family in the 19th century. Its well-preserved interiors and knowledgeable guides make it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
5. Saint John Arts Centre
Housed in what used to be the Carnegie Building, the Saint John Arts Centre is the heartbeat of the city's artistic community downtown Saint John, NB. With a rotating schedule of exhibitions, workshops, and events, the centre showcases the city's vibrant arts scene, from visual arts to literature.
Take a Guided Tour of Uptown Saint John
Immerse yourself in the architectural, historical, and cultural essence of uptown Saint John with a two-hour guided tour that promises an enriching experience. Led by a costumed guide, you will explore significant landmarks, including the landing site of the Loyalist refugees post the War of Independence and the former residence of the notorious Benedict Arnold.
As you wander down streets lined with architectural marvels from the late 19th century, your guide will share tales of the city’s prominent shipbuilding legacy and its deep Irish and Acadian heritage. The tour also offers a visit to the Saint John City Market in Uptown, Saint John, perfect for those who appreciate local foods, arts, and crafts.
Additionally, the tour of downtown, Saint John NB features a visit to the Three Sisters Lamp, a beacon for mariners of the past, and a stroll through Prince William Street, celebrated for its unique historical architecture.
With snacks, gratuities included, and starting points easily accessible, this walking tour concludes where it begins, offering a comprehensive glimpse into the colourful collage that is Saint John’s past and present.
Park and Play
In the uptown area of Saint John, visitors have access to a wide range of parking options. This includes approximately 750 metered on-street spaces, serviced by traditional parking meters, pay-and-display, pay-by-plate machines, HotSpot, and QR code signs. Additionally, there are around 1,200 spaces across 20 surface lots and approximately 1,650 spaces within two parking garages, ensuring ample and convenient parking availability for all.
