· CA

Saint John

Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada

Discover the Undeniable Charm of Saint John, New Brunswick Nestled on the majestic Bay of Fundy, Saint John, New Brunswick, is a vibrant city brimming with maritime history, natural wonders, and a welcoming East Coast sp…

#Saint John#New Brunswick#Canada#Maritime#Port city
Stay & flyVideosPracticalGuide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Saint John.

Top Hotels in Saint John

Top Flights to Saint John

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Saint John.

Currency
$ | CAD | Canadian Dollar
Population
125,000
Languages
English, French
Average weather
Saint John
Jan
snow
-3°-12°
Feb
snow
-2°-11°
Mar
cold
2°-7°
Apr
rain
9°-1°
May
cloud
16°4°
Jun
sun
21°10°
Jul
sun
24°14°
Aug
sun
23°13°
Sep
cloud
19°9°
Oct
rain
12°4°
Nov
cloud
6°-1°
Dec
snow
0°-8°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Saint John.

What people love

Saint John, located in New Brunswick, Canada, offers a variety of unique experiences and attractions for travelers. Some of the pros of traveling to Saint John include:

  1. Natural beauty: Saint John is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including the Bay of Fundy, which has the highest tides in the world. Visitors can explore the rugged coastline, pristine beaches, and lush forests in the area.

  2. Rich history: Saint John is one of the oldest cities in Canada, with a fascinating history dating back to the 1600s. Travelers can visit historic sites such as the Loyalist House, the Carleton Martello Tower, and the New Brunswick Museum to learn more about the city's past.

  3. Outdoor activities: Saint John is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with a wide range of activities available year-round. From hiking and biking to kayaking and whale watching, there is something for everyone to enjoy in the great outdoors.

  4. Vibrant arts and culture scene: The city is home to a thriving arts community, with numerous galleries, theaters, and performance spaces to explore. Visitors can attend live music events, art exhibitions, and cultural festivals throughout the year.

  5. Culinary delights: Saint John boasts a diverse culinary scene, with a mix of traditional Maritime cuisine and international flavors. Travelers can sample fresh seafood, craft beer, and local specialties at the city's many restaurants and food markets.

Overall, traveling to Saint John offers a unique blend of natural beauty, history, outdoor adventures, arts and culture, and delicious cuisine, making it a fantastic destination for travelers looking to explore the beauty of eastern Canada.

What to know

There are a few potential cons to traveling to Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada. These include:

  1. Weather: Saint John experiences cold winters and can be quite rainy throughout the year. This may not be ideal for travelers who prefer warmer or drier climates.

  2. Limited public transportation: Saint John's public transportation system may not be as extensive or reliable as in some larger cities. Renting a car may be necessary to get around efficiently.

  3. Limited nightlife: While Saint John does have some bars and restaurants, the nightlife scene may not be as vibrant as in larger cities. Those seeking a lively nightlife may be disappointed.

  4. Limited tourist attractions: While Saint John has some interesting historical sites and natural attractions, the city may not have as many tourist attractions as other destinations. Visitors looking for a wide range of activities and attractions may find the options in Saint John to be more limited.

  5. Distance from major cities: Saint John is located in a relatively remote part of Canada, which may make it less convenient to reach compared to other more centrally located cities. Traveling to and from Saint John may require longer travel times and connections.

Overall, while Saint John has its charms and attractions, travelers should be aware of these potential cons when planning a trip to the city.

Saint John, New Brunswick, is a city with a rich and varied history, being the oldest incorporated city in Canada. Here are some key highlights from its history:

Early History and Founding

  • Indigenous Presence: Long before European settlers arrived, the area around Saint John was inhabited by Indigenous peoples, specifically the Wolastoqiyik (Maliseet) and Mi'kmaq.
  • European Exploration: The first European to explore the region was the French explorer Samuel de Champlain, who visited the area in 1604. The French established a settlement at the mouth of the Saint John River, which they called "Rivière Saint-Jean" after John the Baptist, as they arrived on his feast day, June 24.

18th Century

  • Fort La Tour: One of the early European settlements was Fort La Tour, established in the 1630s. It was a trading post and military fortification.
  • British Control: The area changed hands between the French and British multiple times, but it was ultimately ceded to the British in 1713 after the Treaty of Utrecht.

19th Century

  • Loyalist Arrival: Saint John was significantly shaped by the arrival of United Empire Loyalists in 1783, who were fleeing the American Revolutionary War. The city was officially incorporated on May 18, 1785, making it Canada’s first incorporated city.
  • Great Fire of 1877: A devastating fire on June 20, 1877, destroyed a large portion of the city, including many homes and businesses. The rebuilding efforts after the fire led to significant changes in the city’s infrastructure and architecture.

20th Century

  • Economic Development: Saint John became a major industrial center, notably with the establishment of the Irving Oil company and the expansion of its shipbuilding industry.
  • World War Contributions: The city played a crucial role during both World Wars, serving as a key port and manufacturing hub.

Historical Figures

  • Benedict Arnold: The infamous American traitor spent some time in Saint John after the American Revolutionary War.
  • Sir Samuel Leonard Tilley: A Father of Confederation and influential political figure from the region who contributed to the formation of Canada.

Important Landmarks

  • Reversing Falls: A natural phenomenon where the Saint John River runs through a narrow gorge and meets the Bay of Fundy, creating a unique and powerful tidal effect.
  • Carleton Martello Tower: A historic defense structure from the War of 1812 that offers panoramic views of the city and its harbor.
  • Trinity Anglican Church: Known for its beautiful architecture and historical significance, dating back to the early 19th century.
  • Saint John City Market: The oldest continuing farmer's market in Canada, which has been operating since 1876.

Modern Era

  • Cultural Hub: Today, Saint John is known for its vibrant arts scene, historical architecture, and as a gateway to the scenic Bay of Fundy. It has become a center for culture and tourism in New Brunswick.

Saint John's history is marked by its strategic geographical location, its role as a refuge for Loyalists, and its development as an industrial and cultural center in the Maritimes.