
Cabot Tower St John's
Iconic sandstone tower on Signal Hill, offering panoramic views and a historic site for Marconi's first transatlantic wireless signal.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden light, fewer crowds

Cabot Tower St John's
Best Time
Golden light, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic sandstone tower on Signal Hill, offering panoramic views and a historic site for Marconi's first transatlantic wireless signal.
"If you're looking for a view that you'll remember for the rest of your days, this is it!"

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The hike from downtown is steep! Good walking shoes are essential for exploring Signal Hill.
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking at the top fills up quickly, especially during peak season. Plan accordingly!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Cabot Tower Summit Views
Signal Hill
Panoramic vistas of St. John's harbor, the Atlantic Ocean, and the rugged coastline. Unforgettable!

Marconi's Historic Site
Cabot Tower
Stand where the first transatlantic wireless signal was received in 1901. A pivotal moment in history.

Signal Hill National Historic Site
Signal Hill
Explore military history and enjoy diverse walking trails with stunning coastal scenery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Views
Getting There: Hike or Drive?
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The hike from downtown is steep! Good walking shoes are essential for exploring Signal Hill.
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking at the top fills up quickly, especially during peak season. Plan accordingly!
💨 Brace for the Wind
It can be very windy at the top, even on a calm day. Bring layers!
🛍️ Gift Shop Available
A quaint gift shop is located within the tower, offering reasonably priced souvenirs.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The hike from downtown is steep! Good walking shoes are essential for exploring Signal Hill.
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking at the top fills up quickly, especially during peak season. Plan accordingly!
💨 Brace for the Wind
It can be very windy at the top, even on a calm day. Bring layers!
🛍️ Gift Shop Available
A quaint gift shop is located within the tower, offering reasonably priced souvenirs.
🚽 Washroom Info
No washrooms at the tower itself; head to the information center down the hill.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Cabot Tower and Signal Hill for their breathtaking panoramic views of St. John's and the Atlantic Ocean, coupled with significant historical importance. The hike from downtown is often described as challenging but rewarding. Some find parking difficult during peak times, and note the lack of on-site washrooms.
"Walking from downtown St. John’s up to Cabot Tower, perched on Signal Hill, is an unforgettable experience. The path is full of ups and downs, quite literally — but every step is worth it.
From the start, you’re surrounded by colorful houses, the fresh Atlantic breeze, and stunning views of the harbour. As you climb higher, the walk becomes more challenging, but the scenery gets more and more breathtaking.
Once at the top, the view from the tower is simply incredible: the vast ocean, the strong wind, and the historical feel of the place make it all the more special.
In short, it was a wonderful walk — tough at times, but absolutely worth it. If you’re in St. John’s, don’t miss it. Put on your walking shoes, take your time, and enjoy one of the most iconic spots in Newfoundland."
marisa cid torralba
"If you're looking for a view that you'll remember for the rest of your days, this is it! St. John's and the Atlantic both look absolutely breathtaking!
If you're planning on parking at the top, you should show up early. We never had an issue getting a spot.
There is also a quaint little gift shop, reasonably priced."
Bryan Handley
"Lots of hiking trails, beautiful views of the Harbour. Difficulty to find parking in busy season. Gift shop in the tower, No washrooms at the tower. You will need to go to information centre down the hill"
jason
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can either hike up Signal Hill from downtown St. John's, which offers beautiful views along the way but is a challenging climb, or drive to the top. Parking is available but can be limited during busy periods.
While there isn't direct public transport to the tower itself, you can take a bus to downtown St. John's and then begin your hike or arrange a taxi/rideshare to the summit. Check local transit schedules for routes near Signal Hill.
For the most scenic experience, consider the hike up the North Head Trail from the Battery or downtown. If time is limited, driving to the parking area near Cabot Tower is an option.
Cycling is possible, but be prepared for steep inclines and traffic, especially on the roads leading to Signal Hill. The trails are primarily for walking.
Parking at the top of Signal Hill can be challenging, particularly during peak tourist season. Arriving early in the morning or late in the afternoon is recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Cabot Tower and Signal Hill National Historic Site are generally free to access. There are no admission fees to explore the grounds or enter the tower itself.
Cabot Tower is typically open daily during daylight hours, but it's always a good idea to check the Parks Canada website for the most up-to-date information on seasonal hours and any potential closures.
No, Signal Hill National Historic Site does not have an entrance fee. You can explore the trails and enjoy the views freely.
Yes, you can usually go inside Cabot Tower. It houses a small gift shop and offers access to the upper levels for even more spectacular views.
While official guided tours might vary, you can often find information about the history of Cabot Tower and Signal Hill from interpretive signs on-site. Local guides may also offer tours.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
At Cabot Tower, you can admire the historic architecture, learn about its significance as Marconi's wireless signal site, and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of St. John's harbor and the Atlantic Ocean.
Absolutely! Signal Hill offers a network of hiking trails, including the popular North Head Trail, ranging from moderate to challenging, with stunning coastal scenery.
Cabot Tower was built to commemorate the 400th anniversary of John Cabot's voyage to Newfoundland in 1497 and is famously known as the site where Guglielmo Marconi received the first transatlantic wireless signal in 1901.
During whale migration seasons, it's possible to spot whales from Signal Hill, especially from the higher vantage points overlooking the ocean.
Combine a hike on the trails with a visit to Cabot Tower. Take your time to soak in the views, learn about the history, and enjoy the fresh Atlantic air.
📸 📸 Photography
The top of Cabot Tower offers incredible 360-degree views. Also, frame shots of the tower with the city or ocean in the background. Early morning and late afternoon light are ideal.
Yes, Cabot Tower and Signal Hill are popular for drone photography, offering unique aerial perspectives of the tower, harbor, and coastline. Always check local drone regulations.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A telephoto lens can be useful for spotting distant boats or wildlife. Don't forget a polarizing filter for the ocean.
Fog can create a dramatic and moody atmosphere, perfect for unique, artistic shots of Cabot Tower and the surrounding landscape.
Generally, photography is allowed and encouraged. However, be mindful of other visitors and any specific signage regarding photography in certain areas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families with younger children or those seeking easier access, driving to the top parking lot is recommended. While there are no washrooms directly at the tower, facilities are available at the visitor center further down the hill. The gift shop also offers small souvenirs that kids might enjoy.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Walkers
For those who prefer a less strenuous walk, the paths around the summit offer beautiful vistas without the intense climb. The opportunity to combine a vigorous hike with the historical significance of Cabot Tower makes Signal Hill a top destination for walkers.
📸 Photographers
Consider bringing a wide-angle lens for sweeping landscapes and a telephoto lens for details. Drone photography offers unique aerial perspectives, but always check local regulations. Even misty days can yield dramatic and atmospheric shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Cabot Tower and Signal Hill
Signal Hill is perhaps most famous for its role in the history of wireless communication. On December 12, 1901, Guglielmo Marconi successfully received the world's first transatlantic wireless signal from Poldhu, Cornwall, England, at a station on Signal Hill. This monumental achievement, though predated by Nikola Tesla's earlier work, proved the viability of long-distance radio transmission and cemented the hill's place in technological history.
Interestingly, the tower itself has a dramatic past. On December 3, 1918, an explosion occurred within Cabot Tower, causing a portion of it to crumble. The cause? A tobacco pipe igniting flammable materials. This event, while destructive, is a fascinating footnote in the tower's storied existence.
Hiking and Exploring Signal Hill
Beyond the North Head Trail, other paths wind around the hill, offering different perspectives of the coastline and the iconic Cabot Tower. Visitors can expect steep climbs, cliffside paths, and opportunities to enjoy the fresh sea air. The diverse terrain makes it an excellent place for a brisk walk or a more leisurely stroll, depending on your preference.
Remember to wear appropriate footwear, as some trails can be rugged. The ever-changing weather on the coast can add to the adventure, so dressing in layers is advisable. The combination of natural beauty and historical significance makes exploring Signal Hill a must-do activity.
Photography Opportunities
The iconic Cabot Tower itself serves as a magnificent subject. Whether framed against a clear blue sky, shrouded in mist, or silhouetted at sunset, it offers endless photographic possibilities. Drone enthusiasts will find Signal Hill particularly appealing, with aerial shots revealing unique perspectives of the tower, the harbor entrance, and the surrounding landscape. Always be aware of and adhere to any local drone regulations.
Even on foggy days, Signal Hill can be incredibly photogenic. The mist creates a dramatic and atmospheric setting, lending a unique mood to your photographs. Capturing the interplay of the historic tower with the ethereal fog can result in truly memorable images.
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