9 Things to do in Saint John for a Budget-Friendly Getaway

​Since we have multiple of international trips coming up in Europe and Asia, we thought it best to get rid of our cabin fever by exploring an area close by that we hadn’t been before, so we recently took a little trip to Saint John, New Brunswick for a budget friendly getaway.
 
Saint John is a quaint little town often overlooked by visitors as it’s know more as a trade work town and not really touristic. Well we thought the same for some time but we’re here to tell you that it is not! Saint John has a lot of fun things to do and is easy on the budget!
 
Here are some of the things we recommend for your next visit.
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9 THINGS TO DO IN SAINT JOHN FOR A BUDGET-FRIENDLY GETAWAY

Fort Howe Lookout
Think Hollywood, but on a much, much smaller scale. If you see the big white letters of the “Saint John” sign, you’re going the right way!
 
Fort Howe Lookout is up the top of a hill overlooking the harbour and city. A simple historic site with a replica of the 18th century fortifications and a canon, Fort Howe lookout is a quick stop that fits into any schedule. 

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Reversing Falls

Reversing Falls
The reversing falls are a natural phenomenon that occurs due to the massive tides of the Bay of Fundy. The tides create a reverse effect on the current which makes the water flow in different directions.
 
To really take in the impressiveness of this phenomenon, it is recommended to spend some time observing the water flow. Since a tide takes about twelve hours to come in or out, it can be a while before you notice the reversal effects. A boat tour is out and available, weather permitting, where you can really experience this.
 
If boat tours is not your thing, and you don’t want to wait around for the reversal effect, we recommend to go during low tide so that you can witness the whirlpool effects of the water! 
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Rockwood Park

Rockwood Park
Located in the middle of Saint John, Rockwood Park is one of the biggest urban parks of Canada. Come here to enjoy some easy hiking, picnics or barbecues and family time. Entry and parking is free and the park is big enough to spend hours exploring! Come say hi to the ducklings in one of the lakes!
 
Irving Nature Park
The Irving Nature Park looks out onto the Bay of Fundy and is a great area for family time, leisure strolls or picnics. Come enjoy nature and fresh air in this conservation park.

City Market Saint John

Uptown
The centre town of Saint John is locally referred to as uptown due to the fact that it’s up the hill. Take an hour or so to walk around the cozy streets of the area to see the historical buildings and beautiful character houses.
 
Boardwalk
The Boardwalk is located by the water in the harbour and is host to a multitude of restaurants, shops and activities. Buskers and street artists entertain in the summer and bars and restaurants are located here for a great meal with a view!
 
Walk along the harbour to enjoy the fresh sea breeze (and most likely the foggy weather) of Saint John!
 
Saint John City Market
The farmer’s market located uptown Saint John has all kinds of locally produced items for sale from food and spices to art and jewellery. Stop by the market for a snack or come by to enjoy the lively vibe of local producers coming together!
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Picaroons General Store

​Beer Tastings
Going for a beer tasting at a local brewery is the perfect way to enjoy an afternoon on the cheap! We recommend you try Picaroons General Store located on Canterbury Street for delicious brews and a lovely vibe.
 
Wine Tastings
In addition to breweries, Saint John is home to wonderful wine bars. We decided to venture a little further out and drove out to nearby Kingston to enjoy a tasting at the beautiful Dunhams Run Estate Winery. They charge a small fee per person for a tasting, or buy one of your favourite bottles to get the tasting complimentary!
 
To get here, take the (free!) Summerville-Saint John ferry to cross the Kennebecasis River.
 
Have you visited Saint John yet? What are your favourite things to do here?
 
J&C

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