An excellent way to see St. John's is from Signal Hill. Climb it to see why it has been for centuries the place to station military sentinels and signalmen: From the hilltop, you can see almost all of the city, with its low-density neighborhoods, walking trails, university campus and the wilderness reserve to the north.
Down the hill, the main attraction is St. John's Harbour. From Harbour Drive, you can see The Narrows (the harbor entrance flanked by cliffs on each side). The city's two key roads are Water and Duckworth streets, both of which date back hundreds of years. Water Street, once called "The Lower Path," remains a commercial hub of Newfoundland—although the fish merchants and department stores have given way to boutiques, trendy shops, coffeehouses and pubs. Some claim it as the oldest thoroughfare in North America. Because most of its buildings were rebuilt after their destruction in the Great Fire of 1892, much of the architecture of St. John's dates from the late Victorian era.
| Historic Sites | Top  |
This cathedral, originally constructed in the 1840s and rebuilt after the Great Fire of 1892, occupies a city block at the appropriately named Church Hill. It is known as one of the best examples of Gothic architecture in the New World. Ask for a guided tour to see treasurers up close. The Crypt tearoom serves delicious tea and desserts during summer. Monday-Friday 10 am-noon and 2-4 pm. Weekends after services or by appointment. Gower Street at Church Hill (at the base of Garrison Hill), St. John's. Phone 709-726-5677. http://www.infonet.st-johns.nf.ca/cathedral.
This seat of the Roman Catholic Church in Newfoundland and Labrador dominates the city skyline and contains numerous historically important treasures. Its twin towers are clearly visible to any ship sailing through The Narrows into St. John's Harbour. It was completed in 1850 and contains numerous historically important treasures. A visit to the Basilica's museum, a five-minute walk down the street, is strongly recommended. Open year-round Monday-Friday 10:30 am-3 pm. Museum open daily July-September, by appointment during winter months. Museum admission is Can$2. Military Road at Bonaventure Avenue, St. John's. Phone 709-726-3660. http://www.thebasilica.ca.
Originally a tavern and lodging house, this building has held numerous important functions over the years. As the primary seat of elected government for decades, the Colonial Building was home of Newfoundland's legislators until the Confederation Building was opened in 1960. The Colonial Building later became the home of the Provincial Archives of Newfoundland and Labrador, which were later moved to The Rooms cultural complex on nearby Bonaventure Avenue. The Colonial Building is currently undergoing restoration work. Near Government House, St. John's. Phone 709-757-8030.
The Commissariat House was built to serve as both office and home of the assistant commissary general for the colony. The 1818 building, now a provincial historic site, has been restored and furnished to show what visitors and residents would have experienced in 1830. The coach house nearby is filled with memorabilia. Costumed guides give tours. Late May-October, 10 am-5 pm daily. Can$3, which includes admission to Quidi Vidi Battery. 13 King's Bridge Road, St. John's. Phone 709-729-6730.
One of the most striking buildings downtown is the Court House, which is accessible from both Water and Duckworth streets. The stone of the 1901 Court House is carved in a distinctive neo-Romanesque style, and it has been restored to resemble its original appearance. It is still a fully functioning seat of the criminal justice system. 192 Water St., St. John's.
This grand mansion was designed to be the residence of the British governors who oversaw Newfoundland's affairs. Government House, which occupies the easternmost section of Military Road, is now the home of the province's lieutenant governor and hosts members of the British royal family when they visit. It is the only building in North America that has a moat surrounding it. Visitors are welcome to sign the guest book outside and stroll through the gardens. To tour the house, call at least one month in advance; tours, at no charge, are available only on Wednesday and Thursday mornings. Military Road at Bannerman Road, St. John's. Phone 709-729-4494.
Known as the Methodist Cathedral, this church was built in the late 19th century after the Great Fire of 1892 had destroyed its predecessor. Its marvelous redbrick design is a hallmark of St. John's architecture. Monday-Friday 9 am-3 pm and for service on Sunday morning. Church Hill (across from the Anglican Cathedral), St. John's.
This site is believed to have been the landing place in 1583 of Sir Humphrey Gilbert, who claimed Newfoundland as Britain's first colony. There is a plaque there in his honor. Natives of St. John's love dogs, so don't miss the new statue,
Our Dogs. Duckworth and Water streets (across from the National War Memorial), St. John's.
This is one of the oldest building in St. John's and housed fish warehouses in the mid-19th century. It was restored in the late 1970s, and today is home to a variety of tenants: retailers, restaurants, the Newfoundland Science Centre and a fine boutique hotel. Year-round 9 am-10:30 pm. Beck's Cove and Water Street, St. John's. Phone 709-754-1090.
Built in the 1920s, this memorial commemorates the heavy losses in the Royal Newfoundland Regiment during World War I. The "National" in its title dates back to Newfoundland's former status as a separate dominion from Canada from 1907 (prior to that time it was still considered a British Colony). Between Duckworth and Water streets, St. John's.
This hill looms over St. John's Harbour, offering a panoramic view of the ocean, port and city and was a strategic military point for centuries. It is topped by Cabot Tower, a national historic site. Among other things, Signal Hill was the site of Guglielmo Marconi's history-changing radio experiment in 1901, in which he received the first trans-Atlantic wireless signal. Consider taking the trail leading through the Battery, an ancient fishing community with roadways that become increasingly narrow. The safer walking option is the main roadway, especially during rainy, foggy or icy weather. Pay close attention to safety warnings and stay on prescribed trails and roads.
Like Gower Street United, this church was built in the 1890s to replace one lost in the Great Fire of 1892. St. Andrew's was built in the Gothic Revival style and sits atop a small knoll. It's marked by its towering spire. Queen's Road, St. John's. Phone 709-726-5385.
This is one of the oldest wooden churches in Canada. It was built in 1836 and survived the Great Fire of 1892, as well as another fire in 1846 that laid waste to numerous neighboring buildings. Corner of Military and King's Bridge roads (near Commissariat House), St. John's. Phone 709-576-6632. http://www.st-thomaschurch.com.
The Geo Centre is one of the most unique attractions in Canada. Its ultra-modern architecture is carved into the rocks of Signal Hill. In the lobby, there is an overwhelming three-story display of the solar system suspended overhead. With multimedia displays and excellent presentations, it not only explains the geology of St. John's, but of Earth. Open October-early May Monday-Saturday 9:30 am-5 pm, Sunday 1-5 pm. Closed on Monday. Can$10.25 adults, Can$8 seniors and students, Can$4.60 children, free for children younger than 5. 175 Signal Hill Road, St. John's. Phone 709-724-7625. http://www.geocentre.ca.
Dedicated to the crews who served the now-defunct railway and coastal-boat system, this museum was built in the historic train station that served St. John's for generations until it ceased service in 1988. It features numerous exhibits, as well as a large and fully functional model-train display. Open June to mid-October daily; late October-May Monday-Saturday 9 am-5 pm, Sunday noon-5 pm; closed mid-October to May. Can$5 adults, Can$4 seniors and students, Can$3 children. 495 Water St., St. John's. Phone 709-724-5929. http//www.railwaycoastalmuseum.ca.
The former Newfoundland Museum is now one-third of The Rooms complex, which also houses the provincial art gallery and archives. The museum division features selections from its permanent exhibition and visiting exhibitions. Open Monday-Saturday 10 am-5 pm (Wednesday and Thursday till 9 pm), Sunday noon-5 pm. Closed on Monday mid-October to May. Admission to The Rooms: Can$5 adults, Can$4 seniors and students, Can$3 children, Can$15 families. Special exhibition charges may apply. Free admission on Wednesday night and the first Saturday of the month. 9 Bonaventure Ave., St. John's. Phone 709-757-8020. http://www.therooms.ca/museum.
| Neighborhoods & Districts | Top |
If you have time, make the steep 90-minute walk down to the bottom of Signal Hill and the Battery neighborhood, one of the oldest sections of St. John's. It was once a part of the British defense of the harbor and maintains the look and character of the town's early days as a simple fishing village. Small fishing houses seem to cling to the sides of cliffs as the streets narrow.
This area is home to the row houses of downtown St. John's. The houses are attached to one another but tend to have distinctive widths and heights. They are renowned for their bright colors and their late-Victorian architecture. Key streets include Gower, Bond, Cochrane and Prescott.
This working fishing village is contained within the city limits, but it retains its old character. Most of the roads are narrow, so walking is a necessity. You may consider hiking to the village from either Quidi Vidi Lake (a short walk) or from Signal Hill through the Burma Hill Trail (a more rigorous hike). Look for Mallard Cottage (2 Barrows Road), which is a national historic site, and "The Gut," a brewery that is open for tours, tastings and, of course, purchases throughout the year.
| Parks & Gardens | Top |
This 200-acre/80-hectare green space in the western end of town has some interesting statues. Look for the bronze
Caribou, a replica of the original in Beaumont Hamel, France, honoring the Royal Newfoundland Regiment, which suffered huge numbers of casualties there during a World War I battle. The
Fighting Newfoundlander is another statue that commemorates soldiers from the province. There's also a whimsical statue of Peter Pan. If you feel like a stroll, follow the trail to scenic Captain's Falls Bridge. During the summer months, visitors can enjoy the Peter Pan Festival and Shakespeare by the Sea. There is also a playground with a pool for children. Phone 709-364-1531. http://www.bowringpark.com.
This 3,320-acre/1,345-hectare park at the north end of St. John's is popular with hikers, cross-country skiers, canoeists, swimmers, horseback riders and golfers. Moose are frequent visitors to the park, as well. The Fluvarium in the park is a unique glance into the freshwater world. An observation window allows visitors to see below the surface of a stream, where North American eels, arctic char, and brook and rainbow trout reside. There's much to do there, so if you enjoy the outdoors, leave yourself plenty of time for exploring. Phone 709-737-3655. http://www.pippypark.com.
Located 8 mi/13 km south of St. John's, this park sits atop the towering cliffs at the mouth of the harbor and is the most easterly point of North America. There you'll find a World War II coastal-defense battery with two huge guns. The cliffs provide a good vantage point from which to spot whales and icebergs. Originally built in 1835, the Cape Spear lighthouse has been refurbished and now houses a museum with information about what life was like for lighthouse keepers. Lighthouse hours 10 am-6 pm mid-May to mid-October. Phone 800-341-7981. http://www.pc.gc.ca/lhn-nhs/nl/spear/index_e.asp.
Initiated during the 1970s, the gardens house native flora and fauna and serve as a research facility as well as a bridge for fostering a more green approach to living. It offers an excellent opportunity to observe a wide range of botanical species. Lectures, workshops and camps for kids fill their summer program schedule, along with evening walks, morning bird-watching and floral shows on weekends. Enjoy a refreshing tea and snack at the Bloomin' Teapot Tearoom. 306 Mount Scio Road, St. John's. Phone 709-737-8590. http://www.mun.ca/botgarden.
This research institute is devoted to oceanography and other marine sciences. Some parts of the OSC are open to the public, including outdoor tanks that house seals. A public-education program is offered June-Labor Day. No admission fee, but donations are encouraged. Phone 709-737-3708. http://www.osc.mun.ca.
Originally established as an educational resource, the park has since become a primary tourist destination (more than 40,000 tourists visit each year). It is about an hour's drive from St. John's and is home to a wide variety of native plants and animals. The park has a network of boardwalks from which visitors can observe wildlife ranging from Newfoundland marten and woodland caribou to bald eagles. Hiking is limited depending on the time of year and your experience. Open June-mid October. Can$3 adults, free for seniors, students and children. Off Route 90, St. John's. Phone 709-229-7189. http://www.env.gov.nl.ca/snp.
It was at this site in 1762 that the English and French fought their last North American battle of the Seven Years War. Signal Hill offers an ever-changing panorama that encompasses ships plying the narrow harbor channel, the surrounding city and the vast Atlantic beyond. Inside Cabot Tower (built in 1897), there are exhibits and a gift shop. Several restored and reconstructed military emplacements are located nearby. The Lookout Trail has interpretive displays explaining the history of Signal Hill, St. John's and Newfoundland. South of Quidi Vidi Village, St. John's.
Canada's most easterly national park, Terra Nova is a playground for outdoor adventurists. From hiking, biking, camping and fishing in the summer to snowshoeing, skiing and ice fishing in the winter, there is no shortage of things to do there. Terra Nova offers a unique opportunity to see ospreys, eagles, lynx, caribou and moose within protected sheltered bays, rugged shores and forested hills. The park is a two-hour drive from St. John's and is also accessible via boat, train or air. We especially love the "Bear-Jamming" (watching bears from afar) and "Teaming Up With Salmon" programs. But don't limit yourself. If you're an outdoor enthusiast, be generous with your time there. Phone 709-533-2801. http://www.pc.gc.ca/pn-np/nl/terranova/index_e.asp.
The reserve, which encompasses four islands, is the summer home of thousands of rare seabirds: puffins, murres, kittiwakes, guillemots and more that return to the rocky shores for nesting season. The birds are drawn by capelin (a smeltlike fish) in the area, and so are humpback and minke whales. Scientists and researchers rub shoulders with intrepid travelers, each vying for a view of something they can't find anywhere else in the world. Though you can see some of the action from shore, the best option is to take a boat tour. Bay Bulls, south of St. John's on Route 10, is where many of them pick up passengers. Some also operate out of the town of Witless Bay. The best time to visit Witless Bay is in early summer, when whales (and sometimes icebergs) are more prevalent. More detailed information is available from the Parks & Natural Areas Division, Department of Environment and Conservation, Government of Newfoundland and Labrador. 33 Reid's Lane, Deer Lake, A8A 2A3 (The reserve is about 20 mi/32 km south of St. John's on the Irish Loop), St. John's. Phone 709-635-4520. http://www.env.gov.nl.ca/parks/wer/r_wbe/map.html.
| Wineries, Breweries & Distilleries | Top |
If you're a fan of port wine, make a point of visiting the Newman Wine Vaults. For generations, port wine was sent to age at these vaults before being shipped worldwide. The vaults have been restored as a museum and are open to the public. Hours vary. Call ahead. 1 Springdale St., St. John's. Phone 709-739-7870.
A key attraction of living in St. John's is the proximity to wilderness and a host of outdoor activities. Marine Drive north of St. John's takes in breathtaking coastline and includes Middle Cove, a sheltered, rocky beach that is popular year-round with residents. Kayaking is popular in summer; snowmobiling and cross-country skiing in winter. Hiking is popular all year, from the trails that circuit through the city's Grand Concourse to the more rugged trails that branch out from the city's outer limits.
Yachts anchor in nearby communities, such as Long Pond (home of the Newfoundland Yacht Club). And you'll spot anglers in numerous streams and rivers in the area, including restored waterways such as the Virginia River in the city's east end.
Although St. John's sits at the edge of the ocean, the Atlantic coast is rocky and very cold. Beaches along the sheltered coast at Conception Bay are warmer and sand-covered. Some nearby beaches to consider: Chamberlains Beach, Long Pond Beach, Lance Cove Beach (all at Conception Bay South), and Indian Pond Beach and Main Beach (Holyrood).
| Boating & Sailing | Top |
Whether you have your own boat or just want to watch the races, the Royal Newfoundland Yacht Club is a short drive from St. John's. A schedule of events and races is available on the Web site or by contacting the club directly. Phone 709-834-5151. http://www.rnyc.nf.ca.
This is the city's oldest golf course. It's also a curling club. 100 Logy Bay Road, St. John's. Phone 709-726-5400. http://www.ballyhaly.com.
This newer course in the city's northeast end features challenging fairways. Off Stavanger Drive, St. John's. Phone 709-722-7170. http://www.clovellygolf.com.
This place includes a full 18-hole course, as well as an additional nine-hole course. 460 Allandale Road, St. John's. Phone 709-753-7110. http://www.pippyparkgolf.com.
In the west end of the city, The Woods will test players of all skill levels. 120 Gabriel Road (off Ruby Line), St. John's. Phone 709-368-4747.
| Hiking & Walking | Top |
From north of Cape St. Francis, this trail winds 248 mi/400 km south to Cape Race. Through ghost towns, deserted lighthouses and ecological reserves, you'll enjoy the true flavor of Newfoundland while steering clear of the beaten path. The trail has various entry points and is suitable for everyone from amateurs to professionals. Phone 709-738-4453. http://www.eastcoasttrail.com.
If city walking is more your thing, explore more than 70 m/120 km of trails of the Grand Concourse. Meandering through a network of boardwalks over ponds, lakes and rivers, this is an exceptional trail for birders and nature lovers who prefer to stay within urban borders. Phone 709-737-1077. http://www.grandconcourse.ca.
Following an abandoned railway line, this trail snakes 547 mi/883 km through provincially protected property. There are more than 130 bridges on the trail, and the highest peak is 1,550 ft/472 m above sea level. If you're lucky, you'll be able to see the provincial flower (the Pitcher plant), one of the few carnivorous flowers in the world—it actually eats insects. The trail begins in Port aux Basques in the west, goes to St. John's in the east and is accessible at various points. Phone 709-256-8833. http://www.trailway.ca.
You'll find a multitude of skating rinks, both indoors and out, throughout St. John's. Some of the more popular indoor arenas are St. John's Memorial Stadium, Twin Rinks and Prince of Wales arenas. Some of the popular outdoor rinks include Mundy, Kent's and Kenny's. For times and fees, contact the City of St. John's Recreation Division. Phone 506-450-1881.
Newfoundland offers a diverse sampling of ski hills, from rugged cross-country terrain to downhill slopes suitable for all ski levels. Because the province receives an impressive amount of snow, but not the frigid temperatures of the Maritime Provinces, conditions are ideal throughout most of the winter months.
This small ski hill relies heavily on volunteer support. It's perfect for less skilled skiers or those looking for a pleasant but quiet day on the slopes. You'll find three operational lifts and hills with a maximum drop of 230 ft/70 m. 61 Cadigan's Road, Logy Bay. Phone 709-576-9345 or 709-746-4500. http://www.thelump.com.
Less than two hours from St. John's and with more than 25 mi/40 km of cross-country trails that go into the Bay d'Nord Wilderness Area, as well as 25-plus acres/10 hectares of downhill slopes suitable for a range of skill levels. Ski equipment rentals, lessons and snowboard parks are available. There is a full-service day lodge. 100 White Hills Road, Clarenville. Toll-free 888-466-4555. http://www.discoverwhitehills.com.
| Other Options | Top |
Whether you're a concert dweller, can't wait to snap on your roller skates or follow Canadian hockey with passion, Mile One Stadium is the place to be. Open since 1994, it's St. John's claim to fame when you're looking for something exciting to do. The official home of the Fog Devils, it's an active arena during the winter months. But you'll also find curling matches sprinkled between Hilary Duff or Brian Adams concerts. 50 New Gower St., St. John's. Phone 709-758-1111. Toll-free 800-361-4595. http://www.mileonestadium.ca.
Newfoundland has more than 994 mi/1,600 km of diverse coastline just waiting to be explored. In the early summer, you can kayak past floating icebergs and migrating whales. The Outfitters offers suitable tours for beginners and pros, but they warn visitors to come prepared for all four seasons; you never know what might blow in from the Atlantic. 220 Water St., St. John's. Toll-free 800-966-9658. http://www.theoutfitters.nf.ca.
Wilderness Adventures offers day trips and all-encompassing vacations. Even though you'll trek through rugged terrain and may encounter more weather in a day than most folks see in a year, comfort is key with this company. It provides all the equipment, instruction and even food that you'll need. Toll-free 888-747-6353. http://www.wildnfld.ca/adventures.asp.
The heart of nightlife in downtown St. John's is based around George Street. Once a street of warehouses and wholesalers, George Street now bustles with bars, clubs and restaurants. Most bars charge a cover only when live acts are performing. Most bars and clubs are open until 2 am, with extended hours (but no bar service) until 3 am.
Note: Smoking is prohibited in nightclubs in Newfoundland and Labrador.
| Bars, Taverns & Pubs | Top |
A veteran of the George Street scene, Christian's offers a cozy bar downstairs and a party room upstairs. In the summer, Christian's is popular for "Screech-Ins," a drinking game. (Some people enjoy the experience, some find it embarrassing.) 23 George St., St. John's. Phone 709-753-9100.
Low-key and affable, "the Duke" offers one of the best selections of beers on draft in the city. Some go to use the pool table, but most go for a chat. $. Most major credit cards. 325 Duckworth St. (down McMurdo's Lane), St. John's. Phone 709-739-6344.
Arguably serving the best martinis in St. John's, Grafenberg's boasts an intimate setting for drinks with friends. Live music on weekends, often jazz. $-$$. Most major credit cards. 390 Duckworth St., St. John's. Phone 709-722-7768.
With one of the largest decks in the city, Green Sleeves is the place to be on a summer afternoon—restaurant by day, pub by night. Year-round, the indoor bar is popular, and good pub food can be had during the day. Daily 10:30 am-2 am (3 am on weekends). $-$$. Most major credit cards. 14 George St., St. John's. Phone 709-579-1070.
A good pub for a quiet chat, this is also a good venue to see live music later in the evening. Open-mike nights are popular. $. Cover charged for booked acts. Most major credit cards. 15-17 George St., St. John's. Phone 709-722-3735. http://www.oreillyspub.com.
If you're looking for local music acts that don't deafen and draft beer that's meant to be enjoyed, not chugged, this is the place for you. It's off the beer path, but the cozy atmosphere at the end is worth the extra effort. $-$$. Most major credit cards. 265 Duckworth St., St. John's. Phone 709-753-3870.
One of the largest and oldest bars on George Street, The Sundance has expanded over the years to include the trendy Club One rock club and Dexas, one of the largest outdoor decks in the city (with cover for rainy days and nights). Food served. Daily 11 am-2 am. $$. Cover charges vary on entertainment. Most major credit cards. Corner of George and Adelaide, St. John's. Phone 709-753-7822. http://www.thesundance.ca.
If you’re itching to try Newfoundland screech and think your stomach can handle it, include this one in your pub crawl. You'll find more traditional "Newfoundland" flavor there than in most pubs. $. Most major credit cards. 2 George St., St. John's. Phone 709-759-9630.
| Dance & Nightclubs | Top |
A dance club often hosting live rock and alternative music, Junctions features a large dance floor and an often raucous atmosphere. Doors open at 8 pm and close when everyone's gone. $. Cover charges vary for nights with live music. Most major credit cards. 208 Water St. (entrance up McMurdo's Lane), St. John's. Phone 709-579-2557. http://www.junctionsclub.com.
This club caters to a mostly gay clientele with recorded music and dancing. Open late. 216 Water St., St. John's. Phone 709-754-2492.
Many of the best musicians in St. John's (and elsewhere) make a point of playing the Fat Cat, with styles that extend well past traditional blues. Features live music nightly. Open 8 pm-3 am (sometimes 4 am). $. Cover charge of Can$5 on Friday and Saturday. Most major credit cards. 7 George St., St. John's. Phone 709-739-5554. http://www.fatcatbluesbar.com.
An old-fashioned pub (the low ceiling adds to the allure) that's been a perennial favorite with artists, "the Ship" also features live rock acts late on Friday and Saturday evenings. Folk nights are held Wednesday evenings with various guests. Daily noon-2 am. $. Cover varies for live events. Most major credit cards. Solomon's Lane (between Water and Duckworth), St. John's. Phone 709-753-3870.
| Performing Arts | Top  |
St. John's is renowned for a vibrant, indigenous theater scene, often with a cutting, humorous flair. Theater groups perform at such venues as the Arts & Culture Centre (near the Memorial University campus), the LSPU Hall (Resource Centre for the Arts) on Victoria Street in downtown St. John's, and the fledgling Rabbittown Theatre (Merrymeeting Road at Linscott Street).
There are multiple music festivals during the summer months, including the International Jazz festival (www.atlanticjazzinitiative.com), the Sound Symposium (http://www.soundsymposium.com) and the Signal Hill Tattoo staged with foot soldiers, artillery and drums. Folk festivals celebrate the province's unique history. Contact the city of St. John's for a detailed listing of what's playing where during your visit (http://www.stjohns.ca). Local entertainment listings will provide details on performances, times and dates.
Think
River Dance when you decide to spend your evening there. Staple events include a revolving door of local singers, poets and musicians as well as "Dance Up." Toll-free 888-754-7377.
Home to music festivals, comedy shows and quirky late night performances. It's an artist-run organization devoted to preserving and celebrating Newfoundland Heritage. It's not Hollywood glamour, but you won't be disappointed with your time spent there, either. 3 Victoria St. (box office), St. John's. Phone 709-753-4531, ext. 224. http://www.rca.nf.ca.
The group has been professional since 1978 and has won various awards. You may feel inspired to sing
Ode to Newfoundland even if this is your first visit. Most performances take place at the Rising Tide Arts Centre, but if you're lucky enough to catch an outside pageant, don't assume rain will stop the show. Performance schedules and seat prices vary. Toll-free 888-464-3377. http://www.risingtidetheatre.com.
Dinner theater is popular during summer and fall, and this group hosts a variety of alternating productions from its base at the Majestic Theatre. 390 Duckworth St., St. John's. Phone 709-579-3023.
Enjoy Shakespeare by the Sea with a cast of local performers at this outdoor facility located within Bowring Park that seats more than 700 people. Bring along your own picnic to enjoy during the performance. July to mid-August, Friday-Monday (with weekend matinees). Can$15 adults, Can$10 unwaged (seniors, artists, unemployed), Can$5 children younger than 12. Tickets are cash only and available one half-hour before the performance. http://www.nfld.com.
| Spectator Sports | Top |
St. John's is host to the Royal St. John's Regatta—a day of rowing races held on the first Wednesday in August. Locals line the harbor for views of the race, and the city is crowded with visitors.
The city is also home to the Fog Devils, an expansion franchise in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League. Games tend to be faster (and sometimes looser) than professional play, and are an opportunity to see budding professional players in action.
St. John's natives love speed, and you'll get to reap the rewards no matter what season you choose to visit. School bus, motocross, stockcar and even snowmobiles in the winter are just a few of the activities you'll find there. Contact the raceway directly for a current schedule of events. 142 Main Road, Avondale. Phone 709-229-4583. http://www.avondalespeedway.com.
This AAA team of dedicated but nonsalaried players has its home games at the Mile One Stadium. The regular season runs September-March. 50 New Gower St., St. John's. Toll-free 800-361-4595. http://fogdevils.datastore.com.
| Other Options | Top |
Canada's oldest continual sporting event, the Royal St. John's Regatta, takes place each year on the first Wednesday in August. It started in 1826 when fishermen showed off their skills. Today, the regatta is a combination of professional crews and amateurs competing in a daylong series of rowing races. The festivities culminate in a garden party for more than 50,000 spectators and competitors. Held at Quidi Vidi Lake, near the downtown, St. John's. Phone 709-576-8921.
Shop for provincial handicrafts: pottery, labradorite jewelry, hand-knit woolens, soapstone and bone jewelry, Grenfell parkas, crochet work, fishermen's mitts, hooked mats and rugs, and
duffelwork (heavy wool often embroidered with Arctic scenes). You'll find lots of crafts shops, galleries and boutiques in downtown St. John's, especially along Duckworth and Water streets, as well as at Churchill Square.
Natural soaps, scented with local herbs such as Labrador tea, can be found in several gift boutiques. Another popular souvenir item is Newfoundland and Labrador music, whether it be folk, traditional, pop or rock.
| Shopping Hours | Top |
Generally Monday-Friday 9 am-5 pm, Saturday 9 am-8 pm. Some stores have additional hours on Sunday.
One of the city's best independent bookstores, Bennington Gate specializes in works by local authors and publishers. Monday-Saturday 9:30 am-5:30 pm. Terrace in the Square complex, Churchill Square (off Elizabeth Avenue), St. John's. Phone 709-576-6600.
In addition to an excellent store that presents goods made by artisan members, this gallery features distinctive work by local artists. Monday and Tuesday 10 am-5 pm, Wednesday-Friday 10 am-9 pm, Sunday noon-5 pm. 59 Duckworth St., St. John's. Phone 709-753-2749. http://www.craftcouncil.nf.ca.
Farmers congregate for open-air sales. Variety is highest during the summer and fall months, especially on Saturday. Expect to find fresh berries, preserves, fish and vegetables. Daily. Hours depend on the season. Churchill Square (off Elizabeth Avenue), St. John's.
| Specialty Stores | Top |
Formerly known as the Downhomer, this store boasts a broad range of affordable products with a focus solely on Newfoundland and Labrador. Specialties are giftware, clothing, books, music and DVDs. Daily 10 am-6 pm. 303 Water St., St. John's. Phone 709-722-2970. http://www.shopdownhome.com.
A volunteer, not-for-profit association that promotes Newfoundland art and artists. Proceeds from the gift shop support restoration projects of historical landmarks throughout the province. Don't expect flea market finds there—the arts and crafts are high-quality and sometimes pricey. Daily 9:30 am-5 pm. 158 Duckworth St., St. John's. Phone 709-753-9040. http://www.historicsites.ca.
For a one-of-a-kind gift of jewelry, try the Golden Tulip and its collection of handcrafted and designer goods. Daily 10:30 am-5 pm. 295 Water St., St. John's. Phone 709-753-4653.
This shop manufactures T-shirts and other products that are distinctly Newfoundland-flavored (and sometimes hilarious). Daily 10 am-6 pm. 116 Duckworth St., St. John's. Phone 709-739-6810. http://www.livingplanet.ca.
One of the oldest crafts shops in the province, the Newfoundland Weavery offers a full line of products, including oilskin jackets and caps, pottery, photography, cards and giftware. Monday, Wednesday and Saturday 10 am-6 pm, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 1-9 pm. 177 Water St., St. John's. Phone 709-753-0496.
The roots of Nonia (for Newfoundland Outport Nursing and Industrial Association) date back to the nurses who worked in outport Newfoundland. The store still sells excellent hand-knit and woven items, including sweaters, caps and mittens. 286 Water St., St. John's. Toll-free 877-753-8062. http://www.nonia.com.
The O'Brien family has been operating this music store for years. In addition to a full range of locally produced recordings, you can buy traditional instruments, from accordions to tin whistles. Daily 9 am-5 pm. 278 Water St., St. John's. Phone 709-753-8135. http://www.obriens.nf.ca.
This shop offers high-quality travel goods and accessories. Locally made products are featured prominently. Monday-Thursday 10 am-6 pm, Friday 10 am-9 pm, Saturday 10 am-6 pm, Sunday noon-5 pm. 155 Water St., St. John's. Phone 709-738-8284.
For something unusual, consider the Tickle Trunk, which is actually five stores in one. Five artisans pool their resources with a wide variety of one-of-a-kind items. Doug Bird's distinctive products (mailboxes to piggy banks) are modeled on the brightly colored row houses you'll see in downtown St. John's. Daily 10 am-6 pm. 318 Water St., St. John's. Phone 709-726-2535.