Summer in St. John’s. The perfect time to get outdoors and enjoy all that nature has to offer. We’re thankful to have wildlife, beautiful scenery, and amazing outdoor experiences so close to our city center. Here are our top 9 experiences to take in this summer!
A visit to St. John’s wouldn’t be complete without a trip up to Signal Hill and down the North Head Trail. This incredible seaside trail runs 1.7km and is the oldest and most popular trail around Signal Hill. This hike will give you views of the narrows, Fort Amherst, and possibly even Cape Spear on a clear day. For full details on this winding hike, visit our North Head Trail blog linked below.
Photo by @melissa.k.kelly
North Head TrailOne of the best ways to enjoy summer is a picnic with your favourite people. Many local restaurants are now offering picnic options, making it easy to grab a delicious bite and head to a nearby park (or anywhere you like!) to enjoy your lunch outdoors. Why not try Chinched for a cheese or charcuterie board? Or give the Hungry Heart Cafe a call and pick up your lunch on your way to Bannerman Park.
This breezy place is a known attraction for whale watching, hiking and simply enjoying the beautiful ocean vistas. Just a short drive outside of town, you will be able to stroll to the most easterly point in North America and read about the different whales and birds that frequent the cape. They also have a short trail that is accessible for mobility devices, but to reach the lighthouses above it is a climb of stairs.
Photo by @jimsmithfromcanada
Cape Spear Lighthouse National Historic SiteWhile enjoying a delicious meal you also get to enjoy some fresh air. From the pedestrian mall that’s extending beyond Water Street for this Summer 2021 to a multitude of restaurants offering patios, our region offers a large selection of al fresco dining. For a sample list, visit our patios to cheers to article linked below.
Patios to cheers toGet ready to work for your dinner. A day of cod fishing is sure to bring you a hearty catch, and this year you can do it with the comfort of just your bubble or family. Charter a boat to yourselves and enjoy the sights from the water, a few laughs and even more fisherman tales.
Fishing ToursChoose your own adventure! Rent an electric bike from Pedego and set off to see St. John’s from your own, unique perspective!
For an informative and entertaining downtown tour, join St. John’s Walking Tours. You will be entertained with fascinating stories about our unique history, the architecture, and the culture of our city. And if you wish to taste the culture, they also offer a food tour.
Activities & ToursThis network of 25 paths is a true treasure on the east coast of Newfoundland. The East Coast Trail offers genuine wilderness hiking that will take you through historic landmarks and inspiring coastal views. With 336 kms of trails to discover, it’s time to lace up your boots and start marching.
Photo by @maryexploring
East Coast TrailReconnect with nature and spend some time with some of our smallest and biggest “tourists”. Hop on board a private charter or a reduced capacity boat tour, soak up some awe-inspiring views, and watch with glee as whales playfully splash by and puffins feast on capelin.
Photo by @ericbartlettphotography
whale and bird watchingBring your bucket and get picking. You can, of course, find blueberries along most trails in and around the Avalon, but you can also head to Lester’s Farm Market for strawberry picking. Located just 12 minutes outside of St. John’s, you can pick from your own private patch and then meet the farm animals as your stroll through their garden centre. Don’t forget to stop into their shop and pick up a cold ice cream to sweeten the day.
