Downtown St. John's
Vibrant, hilly downtown with colorful houses, lively pubs, and stunning harbor views. A unique blend of history and modern charm.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for photos
Downtown St. John's
Best Time
Best light for photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Vibrant, hilly downtown with colorful houses, lively pubs, and stunning harbor views. A unique blend of history and modern charm.
"St. John's is a beautiful city, full of hills and character, we love you!"
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes!
St. John's is hilly! Pack sturdy, comfortable footwear for exploring the colorful streets and unique architecture.
📸 Capture the Colors
The vibrant houses are a photographer's dream. Visit during daylight for the best shots of Jellybean Row!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Jellybean Row
Downtown St. John's
Iconic, brightly colored houses that make for a vibrant and picturesque stroll. A must-see for any visitor!
Signal Hill National Historic Site
Overlooking St. John's Harbour
Breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the Atlantic Ocean. Rich in history and perfect for photography.

George Street
Downtown St. John's
Famous for its lively pubs and vibrant nightlife. Experience the unique atmosphere and local music scene.

The Narrows & North Head Trail
St. John's Harbour entrance
A scenic walk offering stunning harbor views, leading to a beautiful coastal trail.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Hills!
Safety First Downtown
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes!
St. John's is hilly! Pack sturdy, comfortable footwear for exploring the colorful streets and unique architecture.
📸 Capture the Colors
The vibrant houses are a photographer's dream. Visit during daylight for the best shots of Jellybean Row!
🚗 Parking Pointers
Downtown parking can be tricky. Be prepared to circle for street spots or consider paid lots.
🌃 Be Street Smart
While charming, be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Stick to well-lit areas.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes!
St. John's is hilly! Pack sturdy, comfortable footwear for exploring the colorful streets and unique architecture.
📸 Capture the Colors
The vibrant houses are a photographer's dream. Visit during daylight for the best shots of Jellybean Row!
🚗 Parking Pointers
Downtown parking can be tricky. Be prepared to circle for street spots or consider paid lots.
🌃 Be Street Smart
While charming, be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Stick to well-lit areas.
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
Downtown is best explored by walking to truly appreciate its character and hidden gems.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Downtown St. John's for its unique charm, vibrant colors, and lively atmosphere, especially on George Street. The hilly terrain and parking challenges are noted drawbacks, but most find the picturesque streets and friendly locals make it a worthwhile destination.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Downtown St. John's is easily accessible by car, taxi, or public transit from St. John's International Airport (YYT). Many visitors find it convenient to stay in or near the downtown core to explore on foot.
Parking can be challenging, especially during peak hours. Options include street parking (which can be time-consuming to find) and several paid parking lots. Planning ahead or using ride-sharing services can be helpful.
Absolutely! Downtown St. John's is very walkable, but be prepared for hills. Wearing comfortable shoes is highly recommended to explore the colorful streets and unique architecture.
Walking is ideal for soaking in the atmosphere. For longer distances or if hills are a concern, consider local taxis or ride-sharing services.
Due to its hilly terrain and older infrastructure, some areas of downtown can be challenging for those with mobility issues. However, many main streets and attractions are accessible. It's advisable to check specific venue accessibility beforehand.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, exploring the streets, admiring the architecture, and enjoying the general atmosphere of Downtown St. John's is free. Some specific attractions within the downtown area may have admission fees.
Downtown St. John's is a public area and is accessible at all times. However, individual shops, restaurants, and pubs will have their own operating hours, which vary.
Yes, several companies offer guided walking tours that delve into the history, culture, and unique stories of Downtown St. John's. These are a great way to learn more about the area.
Jellybean Row is a residential street and there is no entrance fee to walk by and admire the colorful houses. Please be respectful of residents' privacy.
You can book hotels, guesthouses, and Airbnbs directly through their websites or via popular booking platforms. Staying downtown offers great walkability to attractions.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the iconic Jellybean Row for its vibrant colors, explore the lively George Street for pubs and music, and consider a visit to Signal Hill for stunning views. The North Head Trail also offers beautiful coastal scenery.
You can enjoy exploring unique shops, dining at diverse restaurants, experiencing live music in pubs, taking scenic walks, and visiting historical sites. The city has a lively and welcoming atmosphere.
Downtown St. John's is generally safe, but like any urban area, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings, especially after dark. Stick to well-lit streets and popular areas like George Street.
St. John's weather can be unpredictable and change quickly. Be prepared for wind, rain, and cooler temperatures, even in summer. Layers are key!
Yes, Downtown St. John's is incredibly photogenic! Jellybean Row, the colorful houses, Signal Hill views, and the harbor offer fantastic photo opportunities.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Downtown St. John's offers a diverse culinary scene, from traditional Newfoundland fare to international cuisine. Explore George Street for pubs and eateries, and check out local recommendations for seafood and unique dishes.
Many restaurants in the downtown area feature local specialties like fresh seafood, cod, and traditional dishes. Ask locals for their favorite spots serving authentic Newfoundland food.
Yes, you can find more affordable options like casual cafes, pubs with daily specials, and take-out spots. Exploring side streets can often lead to hidden gems.
Don't leave without trying fresh Atlantic seafood, particularly cod and salmon. Also, sample local favorites like toutons (fried dough) and partridgeberry jam.
Yes, George Street and surrounding areas have several pubs that offer a good selection of local and imported beers. It's a great way to experience the local nightlife.
📸 📸 Photography
Jellybean Row is a top spot for colorful house photography. Signal Hill offers panoramic city and ocean views. The harbor area and the North Head Trail also provide stunning scenic shots.
Late morning or early afternoon often provides the best natural light to capture the vibrant colors of Jellybean Row without harsh shadows.
Drone usage is subject to Transport Canada regulations. Always check current regulations and obtain necessary permissions before flying a drone in urban areas like Downtown St. John's.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the colorful streets and cityscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for views from Signal Hill. A sturdy tripod is helpful for low-light or night photography.
Yes, photography tours are available that can guide you to the best vantage points and offer tips for capturing the unique beauty of St. John's and its downtown area.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for family-friendly restaurants offering kid's menus, and consider shorter walks like parts of the North Head Trail for scenic views without extreme exertion. The Johnson Geo – Park (though not strictly downtown, it's nearby) is also a fantastic educational and fun outing for kids interested in geology. Always pack layers, as Newfoundland weather can be unpredictable, even for little ones.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
For affordable dining, seek out local pubs offering daily specials or casual cafes. Many of the best experiences, like soaking in the atmosphere of George Street or enjoying the views from Signal Hill (which has a small entry fee for the visitor center but the grounds are accessible), are low-cost or free. Consider packing snacks and water to save on impulse buys.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
For panoramic vistas, head to Signal Hill National Historic Site for breathtaking views of the city, harbor, and the Atlantic Ocean. The North Head Trail also offers stunning coastal photography opportunities. Consider visiting during different times of day to capture the changing light and moods of the city.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of Jellybean Row
When exploring Jellybean Row, remember that these are private residences. While visitors are welcome to admire the houses from the street, it's important to be respectful of the residents' privacy. The best times for photography are typically during daylight hours when the colors pop, and the unique architecture is clearly visible. The hilly nature of the streets adds to the charm, but be sure to wear comfortable shoes!
Navigating Downtown St. John's: Parking and Getting Around
Many visitors find that the best way to experience Downtown St. John's is by walking. This allows you to truly appreciate the colorful architecture, the steep inclines that offer surprising views, and the vibrant atmosphere of streets like George Street. However, comfortable and sturdy footwear is an absolute must. For longer distances or if the hills prove too challenging, taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available and can be a convenient alternative.
Experiencing St. John's Nightlife and Culture
Beyond the pubs, the downtown area boasts a diverse culinary scene, with restaurants ranging from casual eateries to fine dining establishments. Many offer opportunities to sample Newfoundland cuisine, featuring fresh seafood and local ingredients. Exploring the side streets can reveal hidden gems and unique dining experiences. Visitors often remark on the welcoming nature of the people and the strong sense of community found in St. John's.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit