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 Quida 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, you can often catch live music in the Quidi Vidi Taproom.
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.
Before you continue exploring, stop by Quidi Vidi Express Café, located inside the Artisan Studios and powered by the team behind The Battery Café. Whether you’re looking for a freshly brewed coffee or a sweet treat, it’s the perfect spot to take a break and soak in the charm.
If you’re visiting during the warmer months, be sure to stop by The Wharf, a seasonal outdoor gathering space brought to you by Landwash Brewery. The lively waterfront beer garden is the perfect place to relax, enjoy a locally crafted beverage, grab a bite from one of the rotating food trucks, and take in the sights and sounds of the village.
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. Housed within a National Historic Site, this 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 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.
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.
For those looking for a longer adventure, Sugarloaf Path – East Coast Trail also passes through Quidi Vidi. Follow the trail into the village for a well-earned break before continuing your hike along the coastline on the other side.
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
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.
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 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.
