Downtown St. John’s is in the capital city of the Canadian province of Newfoundland and Labrador, on its eastern shore. The area has had vessels in its waters as early as the late 15th century. First indications of the settlement appeared on maps in 1519, making it one of the oldest cities on the North American continent. However, except for Nunavut, this is the newest Canadian province, joining the confederation in 1949 after centuries as a British colony. Visit Downtown St. John’s and walk along the streets, past brightly colored houses and fishing docks to appreciate the city’s character.
Signal Hill overlooks the downtown area and the harbor. Its name is from the historic practice of displaying flags to announce the arrival of ships. Look for the fort-like building, Cabot Tower, part of the national historic site. It was built in 1900 to commemorate explorer John Cabot’s voyage of discovery. The spot also marks the 1901 transatlantic communication milestone of Guglielmo Marconi receiving a message transmitted across the ocean from England.
On the hill imagine yourself a soldier in the early 19th century and fire the Noon Day Gun. Hike the North Head Trail toward the scenic harbor while enjoying fresh ocean air. Pass through The Battery, a residential community with a military name. It is located at the base of rocky Signal Hill at the harbor’s entrance. Also on Signal Hill is the Johnson Geo Centre, a great place for the whole family to learn about geology and space.
Quidi Vidi Lake is northeast of the downtown area, with another picturesque community around it. Experience typical St. John’s by walking the village’s streets and taking lots of pictures. Prolong the experience by stopping at microbreweries and quaint pubs along the way.
Downtown St. John’s spreads along the harbor front, with offshore fishing vessels tied up at its wharves. Travel to St. John’s by air to its international airport or take the ferry to the island province from the mainland’s North Sydney, Nova Scotia, or Blanc-Sablon, Québec.
