This quaint fishing village located just in the east end of St. John’s will transport you to a different time. From the idyllic cottages dotting the roadside to the wharf lined with colourful fishing stages, Quidi Vidi, pronounced as Kitty Vitty or Quada Vida, depending on who you ask, offers a glimpse into the quintessential island outports of Newfoundland & Labrador.
You’ve just arrived in Quidi Vidi and now it’s time to head back out again (on the water this time!). Witness the sun’s first rays hitting North America as you travel by boat to Cape Spear. Passing St. John’s Harbour along the way, this two hour fishing tour with Quidi Vidi Charters will leave you breathless as you watch whales, eagles and maybe even an iceberg pass by. As you troll for fish you will learn about the history of St. John’s dating back to 1497 and, with help from the seasoned captains, you’ll jig for cod.
After everyone has tried their hand at jigging, you’ll head back to the wharf where you will learn to fillet a fish and enjoy it right on the dock. If you are a late riser not to worry, you can still hop on board later in the morning or for an afternoon treat.
After working hard for your fresh-caught lunch, you’ll likely want to wash it down with a refreshing brew. Head to Quidi Vidi Brewery, a former fish plant turned brewery, situated just down the road from the fishing charters. Relax, enjoy the view, and sip on some delicious local craft beer. If you’re looking for a bit of local entertainment, the Quidi Vidi Taproom has live music every Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday!
The large yellow building on the edge of the harbour is where you can take your turn at twacking, also known as window shopping, after you snap some classic shots of the sheds and twins lofts of course.
The Quidi Vidi Village Artisan Studios is the perfect place to window shop or pick up gifts for friends, family, or maybe a little something for yourself. Housing studios for up to ten emerging craftspeople, the Artisan Studios gives you the opportunity to meet some of our province’s talented and delightful makers, learn about their creative processes, and find out what makes their handmade products so special.
Shopping has a way of making you work up an appetite so it may be time to refuel at the quaint and welcoming Mallard Cottage. This award winning 18th Century Irish-Newfoundland vernacular style cottage focuses on presenting Newfoundland ingredients in an approachable and comfortable environment while providing a unique dining experience in one of the oldest wooden buildings in North America.
Speaking of heritage, what better way to end your day in Quidi Vidi than at the The Inne of Olde, also known as Linda’s. This unassuming parlour/pub is tucked into the hill at the fork in the road.
Keepsakes, family photos and trinkets coat the walls, giving you the best eye-spy game you could ever find. Here you are guaranteed to find something new to look at every time you visit. Linda’s is truly a local treasure and a must visit for a taste of real Newfoundland pub culture. Be sure to have a chat with Linda as you sip a pint and hear a few tales from the regular patrons.
Sometimes it feels like all trails lead to Quidi Vidi. From the top of Signal Hill – Ladies Lookout Trail to the Grand Concourse paths from downtown to Quidi Vidi Lake, taking the scenic route is highly recommended. In the summer you can also schedule an Ales & Tales walking tour with Parks Canada at Signal Hill National Historic Site.
This Historic City and Cape Spear Tour from McCarthy’s Party takes you to the beautiful Quidi Vidi along with other must-see spots like Jelly Bean Row, Government House, the Roman Catholic Basilica and an orientation of the shops and restaurants of the downtown core.
Being a capital city means that hailing a taxi or cab is fairly easy. There are many service providers including:
City Wide Taxi 709-722-7777
Jiffy Cab 709-722-2222
Red & Yellow Cabs 709-726-6666
Newfound Cabs 709-744-4444 *Accessible and 15 passenger bus available to hire
Executive Taxi 709-726-2600 *Accessible upon request
Some taxis offer child car seats upon request. Passenger vans are also available upon request. Taxi companies can also provide city tours, speak with a driver for details and rates. For a complete list of Taxi’s available please click here.
As Quidi Vidi Village is primarily a pedestrian zone, city buses stop just outside the village itself.
Visit the Metro Bus website for current stop and fare information, and to plan your trip here: metrobus.com
Two route options are available
Route 15 runs South of Quidi Vidi Lake and and will include about a five minute walk into the Village.
Route 2 runs North of Quidi Vidi Lake and will require about a 15 minute walk into the Village.
Parking is limited in this quaint part of town and can be accessed off Quidi Vidi Village Road (The Blvd) and at the Sugar Loaf Path Parking.
Published: November 27, 2019
