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Quidi Vidi Battery Historic Site

4.5
·53 reviews·St. John's, Canada

Historic fortifications meet a charming fishing village with stunning coastal views. Explore history, enjoy local food, and hike scenic trails.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Best light for photos

CrowdMedium
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looking out through the narrow at the ocean

Quidi Vidi Battery Historic Site

Best Time

Summer mornings

Best light for photos

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Historic fortifications meet a charming fishing village with stunning coastal views. Explore history, enjoy local food, and hike scenic trails.

4.5
(53 reviews)

"A beautiful little harbour right in St. John's. Worth a visit...great restaurants and the Quidi Vidi breweries delicious beer!"

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Comfortable Footwear Essential

Trails and battery grounds can be uneven. Sturdy shoes are a must for exploring!

🍺 Taste Local Brews

Don't miss Quidi Vidi Brewery for delicious craft beers with a view.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Battery Fortifications

Historic Battery Fortifications

The Battery itself

Explore centuries-old military structures offering panoramic ocean vistas. A must-see for history buffs and photographers.

Quidi Vidi Village

Quidi Vidi Village

Adjacent to the Battery

A picturesque fishing village with colorful houses, artisan shops, and the renowned Mallard Cottage.

East Coast Trail Access

East Coast Trail Access

Various points around the Battery

Hike sections of the famous East Coast Trail for breathtaking cliffside scenery and ocean air.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Coastal Charm

Quidi Vidi Battery offers stunning coastal views and historic fortifications. Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the trails and battery grounds. Consider visiting the nearby village for local food and craft beer.

Timing is Key for Views

While beautiful year-round, the Battery is particularly scenic during warmer months. Check local event listings for potential festivals or markets in Quidi Vidi village, which can add to the experience.

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Best light for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekend afternoons
Why
Village buzz & beer tent
Crowd
High
When
Weekday evenings
Why
Fewer crowds, golden hour
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

What kind of Nature Wizardry is THIS????‼️‼️#Funny #Comedy #fyp #GoQuidi #explorepage #nature #insects
@goquidi_
121.9K likes • 6.2M views

👟 Comfortable Footwear Essential

Trails and battery grounds can be uneven. Sturdy shoes are a must for exploring! Reddit

🍺 Taste Local Brews

Don't miss Quidi Vidi Brewery for delicious craft beers with a view. Reddit

reddit.com

General info about St. John's - check my research?

📸 Capture the Scenery

The coastal cliffs and colorful village are incredibly photogenic. Bring your camera! Instagram

🎣 Experience Local Life

Visit on weekends to see locals fishing and enjoy the village atmosphere. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Comfortable Footwear Essential

Trails and battery grounds can be uneven. Sturdy shoes are a must for exploring! Reddit

🍺 Taste Local Brews

Don't miss Quidi Vidi Brewery for delicious craft beers with a view. Reddit

📸 Capture the Scenery

The coastal cliffs and colorful village are incredibly photogenic. Bring your camera! Instagram

🎣 Experience Local Life

Visit on weekends to see locals fishing and enjoy the village atmosphere. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Walk the East Coast Trail

Access stunning coastal hikes directly from the Battery. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(53 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Quidi Vidi Battery and Village for their stunning coastal scenery, historic charm, and picturesque setting. The nearby village offers delightful dining and local brews, making it a well-rounded experience. Some find parking challenging during peak times.

"Beautiful sites and sounds on this part of the East Coast Trail. I just love to take the dog and hike around here. Pristine trails, beautiful colors and rock cliffs. You just need to experience it!"

Lisa Jacobs

"Interesting place. Authentic local food at Mallard Cottage."

George Ayoub

"You need to see this place that is hidden in St. John's. It is a lovely walk and enjoy the arts centre. The is a restaurant there called the Mallard Cottage that is highly ranked but we arrived too late for lunch and too early for dinner. Will definitely try it in the future."

yu chen

What People Like

Beautiful coastal views
Historic Battery site
Charming village atmosphere

What People Dislike

Limited parking

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Quidi Vidi Battery is a short and scenic walk (about 20 minutes) or a quick taxi ride (under 10 minutes) from downtown St. John's. Many visitors enjoy the walk along the coast. Reddit

Limited parking is available near the Battery and in Quidi Vidi village. It can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Instagram

While direct bus routes might be limited, local buses can get you close to the St. John's harbor area, from where you can walk or take a short taxi to the Battery. Reddit

Some areas of the Battery are accessible, but the historic terrain and trails can be challenging. The village itself is more navigable. Reddit

Combining a walk through Quidi Vidi village with exploration of the Battery and a short hike on the East Coast Trail offers a comprehensive experience. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to Quidi Vidi Battery and the surrounding village is generally free. You're visiting a historic site and a public area. Reddit

The Battery grounds are typically open to the public during daylight hours. The village shops and restaurants have their own operating hours. Reddit

While official guided tours might not always be available, you can often find local guides or information boards at the site. The village also has an arts centre. Reddit

The East Coast Trail is a public park and does not have an entrance fee. Donations are appreciated to help maintain the trails. Reddit

Yes, you can visit the Quidi Vidi Brewery for tastings and to purchase beer without booking a formal tour. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The viewpoints overlooking the harbor, the historic gun emplacements, and the rugged coastline offer fantastic photo opportunities. Instagram

Early morning or late afternoon (golden hour) provides the most dramatic lighting for capturing the coastal scenery and colorful village. Instagram

Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with local authorities or the Parks Canada website for any restrictions before flying a drone. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal views, while a telephoto lens can be useful for details in the village or distant sea life. Instagram

Yes, keep an eye out for seabirds and marine life. The TikTok video shows some unusual insect activity, so be observant! TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Mallard Cottage is a highly-rated restaurant in the village. There's also the Quidi Vidi Brewery with a beer tent that sometimes offers snacks. Reddit

Mallard Cottage is known for its fine dining experience, so it can be on the pricier side, but many find it worth the cost for the quality and ambiance. Reddit

It's best to check directly with Mallard Cottage or other eateries, as menus can change. Local seafood is a specialty. Reddit

There are scenic spots around the Battery and village where you can enjoy a picnic. Remember to pack out all your trash. Reddit

Freshly caught codfish is a local staple, and you might see locals filleting it onshore on weekends. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Quidi Vidi Battery and Village offer a fun outing for families. Kids will be fascinated by the old fortifications and the idea of pirates or historical battles. The colorful houses in the village are also a hit. Reddit

Consider a short, easy walk on the East Coast Trail suitable for younger legs. Pack snacks and drinks, and let them explore the unique environment. The Quidi Vidi Brewery might have a family-friendly atmosphere in its beer tent, but always check first. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

Quidi Vidi Battery and Village are excellent choices for budget-conscious travelers as entry is free. You can enjoy the stunning scenery, explore the historic site, and wander through the charming village without spending a dime. Reddit

Pack a picnic to enjoy with a view, and perhaps splurge on a single craft beer from the Quidi Vidi Brewery or a treat from a local shop. The real value here is the incredible natural beauty and historical atmosphere, which are priceless. Reddit

📸 Photographers

This location is a photographer's dream! The historic Battery offers dramatic angles and sweeping ocean vistas, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. The colorful village provides endless opportunities for capturing charming street scenes and harbor shots. Instagram

Don't forget your wide-angle lens for the expansive coastal views and a telephoto for details in the village or potential wildlife. The unique natural phenomena captured in the TikTok video also highlight the potential for unexpected and fascinating shots. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Historic Battery

The Quidi Vidi Battery is a significant historical site, offering a glimpse into Newfoundland's military past. These fortifications were strategically important for defending St. John's harbor. Visitors can wander through the old gun emplacements and imagine the history that unfolded here. The panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean from the Battery are simply breathtaking, making it a prime spot for reflection and photography. Reddit

The rugged terrain and sea air contribute to the authentic atmosphere. It's a place where history meets natural beauty, providing a unique experience for any visitor. Remember to wear sturdy shoes as the ground can be uneven and rocky. Reddit

Key Features of the Battery



* Gun Emplacements: Explore the remnants of historical artillery positions.
* Coastal Views: Enjoy unparalleled vistas of the ocean and coastline.
* Interpretive Signage: Learn about the Battery's role in defense and history.

The Charm of Quidi Vidi Village

Nestled beside the Battery, Quidi Vidi Village is a postcard-perfect fishing hamlet. Its colorful houses, bobbing fishing boats, and quaint harbor create a picturesque scene that feels like stepping back in time. The village is not just visually appealing; it's a hub for local culture and cuisine. Reddit

Visitors often rave about the Mallard Cottage, a highly-ranked restaurant offering a taste of authentic Newfoundland fare. Even if you miss a mealtime, the village itself is a delight to explore, with artisan shops and the famous Quidi Vidi Brewery. The brewery's beer tent is a popular spot, especially on weekends, offering a chance to sample local brews with a view. Reddit

The community vibe is palpable, with locals often seen preparing their catch. It's a place that truly embodies the spirit of coastal Newfoundland, offering a relaxed yet engaging experience. TikTok

Hiking the East Coast Trail

The East Coast Trail is a world-renowned hiking path, and sections of it are easily accessible from Quidi Vidi Battery. These trails offer stunning coastal scenery, dramatic cliffs, and the invigorating scent of the sea. It's an excellent opportunity to stretch your legs and immerse yourself in Newfoundland's rugged natural beauty. Reddit

Even a short hike can provide incredible views and a sense of accomplishment. The trails are generally well-maintained, but hikers should always be prepared for changing weather conditions and wear appropriate footwear. Reddit

Hiking Tips:



* Check trail conditions: Especially after inclement weather.
* Bring water and snacks: Essential for any hike.
* Inform someone of your plans: For safety, especially on longer treks.

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