Have you ever tried to locate St. John, New Brunswick, on a map? Don’t worry if you haven’t; many are unfamiliar with this gem in Atlantic Canada. However, St. John is a city that deserves to be known, especially for its rich history, stunning natural surroundings on the Bay of Fundy, and unique urban attractions.
St. John holds the distinction of being Canada’s oldest incorporated city, founded in 1785. Its location on the Bay of Fundy, a natural wonder renowned for having the highest tides in the world, heavily influences its identity and appeal. This remarkable bay experiences two high and two low tides daily, with the tidal range varying from 35 to an astonishing 56 feet depending on the specific location. This constant tidal shift, occurring roughly every 6 hours and 13 minutes, is not just a spectacle but a rhythm of life for those who call this region home.
Colorful murals adorn shipping containers at Area 506 in Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada
The City of St. John: A Blend of History and Modernity
As Canada’s first incorporated city, St. John is steeped in history, with its identity intrinsically linked to the water. Shipbuilding was the city’s original lifeblood, shaping its growth and urban layout. Interestingly, in St. John, the term “downtown” refers to the waterfront, reflecting its maritime heritage, while the city’s central hub is located “uptown,” on higher ground. This hilly topography is a defining characteristic of St. John, with shops, restaurants, homes, and businesses ascending from the port.
Cruise ship docked in the port of Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada
One of St. John’s most innovative recent developments is Area 506 Waterfront Container Village. This unique space, true to its name, features over fifty repurposed shipping containers transformed into vibrant storefronts along the waterfront. Paying homage to St. John’s port city legacy, these containers now house a diverse array of shops. Area 506 also boasts an outdoor stage for live entertainment, a grassy area with picnic tables, food vendors, bars, and a tiered patio offering excellent views of the stage, creating a lively and engaging atmosphere.
Kayakers explore the waters at Dominion Park in Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada, near billion-year-old fossils
Area 506 is ideally situated to welcome the 70-80 cruise ships that visit St. John annually. Cruise passengers can easily explore this distinctive attraction and get a taste of the city’s unique character. The containers themselves are adorned with colorful murals by various artists, adding an extra layer of visual interest and local artistry to the experience.
Rebuilt from Fire: St. John’s Architectural Tapestry
In 1877, a devastating fire swept through uptown St. John, causing widespread destruction. Demonstrating remarkable resilience, the community rebuilt the city, this time primarily using brick. This rebuilding effort resulted in a visually stunning city showcasing an exceptional mix of architectural styles spanning over a century of history. Visitors can admire Georgian architecture, characterized by rectangular shapes and balanced facades, as well as numerous examples of Greek and Gothic Revival styles. Greek Revival evokes classical temples, while Gothic Revival offers a more ornate and less formal aesthetic. Other architectural styles prevalent in St. John include Italianate, Mansard, and Queen Anne Revival. This fascinating blend of buildings, interspersed with green spaces like King’s Square, Queen Square, Market Square, and the Old Loyalist Burial Ground, creates a unique urban landscape. Just a short distance from the modern Area 506, you can discover boutique shops, art galleries, and a diverse selection of restaurants and bars, offering a compelling contrast of old and new.
Old Post Office building in Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada, now a retail furniture store, showcasing 1878 architecture
Continuing its forward-thinking approach, St. John is undertaking significant developments along its downtown waterfront over the next decade. Plans include a continuous boardwalk, new hotels, condos, apartments, retail and business spaces, an outdoor skating rink, entertainment venues, and expanded green areas. All these additions will offer breathtaking views of the Bay of Fundy, further enhancing the city’s appeal.
Chubbs Building in Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada, built in 1878, exhibiting varied city architecture on an uphill slope
Historical 1879 building in Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada, highlighting diverse architecture and building year display
Stonehammer Geopark: A Billion Years of Geological History
St. John is not only historically and architecturally significant but also geologically fascinating. The entire city lies within the Stonehammer Geopark, a UNESCO-designated area. A geopark is a region recognized for its geological heritage, aiming to connect geology with local communities, culture, and nature to promote conservation, education, community involvement, and sustainable tourism. Stonehammer stands out as one of 177 UNESCO Global Geoparks, a designation that requires exceptional geological significance and a commitment to its preservation and promotion.
Old Loyalist Burial Ground in Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada, a park paying tribute to the city's historical roots
The geological history of St. John stretches back to the era of Pangea, when continents were unified. The area tells the story of tectonic plate movements and continental drift. Within Stonehammer Geopark, you can witness Stromatolite fossils dating back approximately 1 billion years. The Caledonia Fault, a major geological feature, divides two distinct terrains in the region. The Reversing Falls Rapids, a remarkable tidal phenomenon, are another highlight. Here, the powerful tides of the Bay of Fundy force the St. John River (Wolastoq River in the First Nations language) to reverse its flow at high tide, creating whirlpools, Class 5 rapids, and submerged ledges and waterfalls. This phenomenon is a direct result of fault lines, tectonic plate collisions and separations, and glacial activity. Intriguingly, the scientific explanation aligns with the oral histories of the local Indigenous peoples, adding a rich layer of cultural context to this natural wonder.
Saint John High School in Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada, an architectural example and Canada's oldest continuously public high school
Entertainment area within Area 506 in Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada, hosting bands and performances for visitors
Fossil samples from Stonehammer Geopark in Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada, showcasing the area's ancient geological finds
St. John, New Brunswick, and the Bay of Fundy region offer a compelling combination of historical depth and natural splendor. The welcoming locals take pride in their city’s heritage and progress. As St. John continues to evolve, it remains dedicated to preserving its natural beauty and honoring its past. This unique Canadian city is a destination that promises a memorable and enriching travel experience, worthy of exploration and a return visit.
