nfld tourist attractions

13 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Newfoundland and Labrador

Written by Chloë Ernst Updated Sep 24, 2021

The island of Newfoundland is the most easterly part of Canada, while the vast region of Labrador is largely inaccessible. Newfoundland and Labrador's varied landscape was shaped by the ice ages, leaving a ragged coastline of deep fjords and high coastal cliffs that plunge into the sea. Inland are miles and miles of moorland and forest studded by lakes and inhabited by moose and herds of caribou.

Because of its location close to the "Grand Banks," some of the world's richest fishing grounds, the island's main livelihood was cod fishing until foreign factory ships so depleted the cod population and habitat that the Canadian government suspended fishing.

The capital city of St. John's (not to be confused with the city of Saint John in New Brunswick), around which about a fifth of Newfoundland's population lives, is a lively town with a charming provincial feel to it. All around the island's irregular coast are towns and remote former fishing villages that attract tourists with their breathtaking scenery, sea life, and exceptional birding sites.

Miles and miles of trails follow the magnificent coast, and historic sites to tour include the first known Viking settlement, landing sites of early European explorers, landmarks of early flight pioneers, and tangible relics of prehistoric populations. To pronounce the names like a native, accent the last syllables, as in NewfoundLAND and LabraDOR.

Plan your next great north adventure with our list of the top tourist attractions in Newfoundland and Labrador.

1. Gros Morne National Park

2. l'anse aux meadows national historic site, 3. signal hill national historic site, 4. the rooms, 5. bonavista peninsula, 6. cape spear lighthouse national historic site, 7. torngat mountains national park, 8. puffin and whale cruises in witless bay, 9. cape st. mary's ecological reserve, 10. twillingate and fogo island, 11. castle hill national historic site, 12. terra nova national park, 13. red bay national historic site, map of tourist attractions in newfoundland and labrador.

Gros Morne National Park is undoubtedly one of the most impressive natural features in eastern Canada, a magnificent landscape of fjords and mountains, partly covered with dense forest. Unique wildlife and plant life has adapted to the cold conditions, which are found scarcely anywhere else so far south.

This is one of Newfoundland's most popular attractions, with hiking trails and sightseeing boat excursions in the dramatic landlocked fjord at Western Brook Pond . Other popular things to do here include rock-climbing, boating, swimming, camping, and fishing.

Within the national park, the Long Range Mountains are among the oldest mountains on earth and have been shaped by advancing ice and the forces of erosion. Gros Morne National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site , largely for its unique geological phenomena.

At Tablelands, a large piece of the earth's mantle was thrust to the surface by colliding tectonic plates, exposing a piece of earth that is elsewhere more than a mile beneath the surface. At Greenpoint, ancient layers of solidified seabed have been thrust into vertical cliffs, exposing fossil sequences of different eras.

Official site: http://www.pc.gc.ca/eng/pn-np/nl/grosmorne/index.aspx

L'Anse aux Meadows National Historic Site, a green plain with some moorland, lies at the northern tip of Newfoundland's Great Northern Peninsula . Here were discovered six houses made of grass sods, probably built by the Vikings around the year 1,000 and rediscovered in 1962. It is the oldest known European settlement in North America and, to date, is the only authentic trace of Viking settlement in the New World. It is probably the "Vinland" discovered by Leif Erikson.

The historic site has a reconstructed long house, workshop, and stable where costumed interpreters demonstrate age-old tasks and answer questions. A second Viking attraction on the Great Northern Peninsula is Norstead , a living-history museum with a slightly livelier feel and more Viking-style buildings.

The Viking Trail is a signposted route that takes tourists the length of Newfoundland's Northern Peninsula, from Gros Morne to L'Anse aux Meadows and across the Strait of Belle Isle into Labrador. Almost its entire route is along the western shore overlooking the strait, an expanse of sea that is known as Iceberg Alley .

In the spring and summer, it is not at all unusual to see both icebergs and whales from the road, often at the same time. On its way up the coast, the Viking Trail passes a number of attractions, including the rock formations of Arches Provincial Park and the aboriginal burial ground of Port au Choix National Historic Site , one of the richest archaeological finds in North America.

Official site: http://www.pc.gc.ca/eng/lhn-nhs/nl/meadows/index.aspx

Atop its namesake hill, Signal Hill National Historic Site overlooks the Atlantic Ocean, St. John's harbor, and the small historic downtown. In 1901, Guglielmo Marconi received the first transatlantic wireless signal here. The landmark Cabot Tower commemorates the 400th anniversary of John Cabot's voyage.

Hiking trails lead to the fortifications at the Queen's Battery Barracks and along the perilous cliffs, including spectacular but difficult North Head Trail down to Battery Road.

Official site: http://www.pc.gc.ca/eng/lhn-nhs/nl/signalhill/index.aspx

Dominating the hilltop in sharp contrast to the neighboring 19th-century Romanesque Revival-style Catholic Basilica, St. John's newest museum is called The Rooms and includes several different collections divided by subject. Sections include wildlife and natural history, aboriginal finds, contemporary art, and historical and cultural exhibits that give a good picture of both Newfoundland and Labrador. The museum has a popular restaurant and some of the best views over the city and Signal Hill.

Address: 9 Bonaventure Ave, St. John's, Newfoundland

Official site: https://www.therooms.ca/

The best-known peninsula in Newfoundland is Bonavista, where John Cabot is thought to have sighted the "New World" for the first time in 1497. At Cape Bonavista, stands a statue of Cabot, and visitors can watch for whales, puffins, and icebergs along the coast. The old lighthouse, a provincial historic site, dates from 1843 and was restored around 1870. Picturesque Trinity is an old fishing and trading town, where the historical character has been well preserved.

Also a fishing town, Bonavista was first used by European fishing fleets back in the 16th century. Ryan Premises National Historic Site was opened in 1997. This was originally the headquarters for James Ryan Ltd, a company that began operations in 1869 trading salted fish.

Cape Spear Lighthouse National Historic Site, 11 kilometers south of St. John's, is the most easterly point in North America, and has Newfoundland's oldest lighthouse. It is a popular, if chilly, spot to watch the sunrise as well as sight whales, seabirds, and icebergs.

Dating from 1835, the light station was in operation until 1955 and is now an interesting museum. In addition, there are massive half-ruined gun emplacements from the Second World War, including the barrels of two guns each weighing 30 tons and having a range of 13 kilometers.

Official site: http://www.pc.gc.ca/eng/lhn-nhs/nl/spear/index.aspx

Torngat Mountains National Park occupies the northernmost tip of Newfoundland and Labrador, facing east toward Greenland . A trip to this remote area is not for the faint of heart, but is tremendously rewarding for those willing to truly travel off the beaten path. This national park has no roads and no signage, and can only safely be visited by arrangement with park officials at the Torgnat Mountains Basecamp and Research Station.

The first thing to strike most visitors is the landscape, dramatic in its grand scope and vastness. The coastline is jagged, with fjords filled with crisp blue water, and the mountains inland are among Canada's tallest peaks. Iceberg viewing is one of the most popular activities here along "iceberg alley," with massive chunks of glacial ice visible from both land and sea. Although icebergs can be spotted as far south as the island of Newfoundland, the season for seeing them is much longer in these far-north reaches.

Boat tours are one of the best ways to view the fjords and icebergs, but are also the best way to admire the astounding number of whales that make the coastal waters home each summer between May and September. This is where you will find the world's biggest group of humpback whales , and plentiful pods of other species, including pilot whales, sperm whales, orca, sperm whales, and minke. Tourists will also spot dolphins and harbor porpoise, and polar bears can be found swimming in the water along the coast and roaming the vast landscape.

Bird-watchers will appreciate the 350 species of fowl that call the area home, including a population of over 800 bald eagles and plentiful other birds of prey like owls, falcons, osprey, and hawks. Other bird species include flocks of millions of storm-petrels, thousands of gannets, and murres.

One of the most special parts of visiting this unique park is the opportunity to learn about Inuit and culture. The parkland is owned by the Inuit peoples, and they welcome visitors to learn more about their heritage through museums, historic sites, festivals, and events. Inuit guides also conduct hiking tours, as well as kayak and raft excursions and fishing trips.

Boat cruises to the islands, where puffins nest and to observe the whales that frequent the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve leave from the town of Bay Bulls, south of St. John's. Whales follow the icebergs that are also found in the bay, and it is not unusual to see icebergs, whales, and puffins, as well as other sea birds on a single cruise.

The four islands of the reserve are the nesting sites for more than 260,000 pairs of puffins, North America's largest Atlantic puffin colony. This is also the world's second-largest Leach's storm-petrel colony, consisting of more than 620,000 pairs that nest here, and you will almost certainly see some of the thousands of black-legged kittiwakes and common murres that spend the summer here.

Puffins are the province's official bird, and tour boats give a close-up view of these appealing birds and their nesting sites during the late spring and summer.

There are major colonies of seabirds at Cape St. Mary's, including about 24,000 northern gannet. The birds are a spectacular sight, whether nesting on the rocks or dive-bombing the ocean for a meal. Other seabird species at the cliff-side reserve include black-legged kittiwake, common murre, razorbill, and great cormorant.

The traditional Newfoundland fishing village of Twillingate is located on the northern coast, known as the Kittiwake coast, and it is a good place to visit to experience local village life. Twillingate was originally settled in 1738 and known as Toulinguet. Near Twillingate is the Long Point Lighthouse, built in 1889. It has a range of 40 kilometers and is an excellent location to watch for whales and icebergs.

Small museums and seafood restaurants make the community an interesting stop for tourists; don't miss the Twillingate Museum & Crafts Shop for a selection of local art and handwork. This is also a popular starting port for iceberg cruises .

Nearby Fogo Island is a holdout from the days of fishing outports. The island culture and an old Irish dialect are distinct from that on the main island of Newfoundland. In recent years, the addition of an expansive artist retreat and luxury hotel have brought attention and visitors to this coastal island.

Castle Hill National Historic Site is between Highway 100 and Placentia , where one of the two ferry routes to Nova Scotia begins and ends. It is the site of historic English and French fortifications, and an interpretive center. The French founded the colony of "Plaisance" in 1662 and built Fort Royal in 1693. But only 20 years later they handed over the strategic location to the British, who renamed it Castle Hill. There is a magnificent view over Placentia Bay .

Official site: http://www.pc.gc.ca/eng/lhn-nhs/nl/castlehill/index.aspx

Terra Nova National Park is known for its fjords and quiet coastline. In spring, icebergs drift by, and in summer, kayakers and canoeists take to the waters, while families fill the park campgrounds. Winter offers cross-country skiing opportunities.

Just north of the national park, Salvage is a small fishing community with the classic Newfoundland charm of waterfront fishing sheds, tilting wharves, and rocky headlands.

Official site: http://www.pc.gc.ca/eng/pn-np/nl/terranova/index.aspx

The icy-cold Labrador current flows through the 17 kilometer-wide Strait of Belle Isle , which separates Labrador from Newfoundland, and into the Gulf of St. Lawrence . Since the 16th century, southern Labrador had been the summer fishing grounds of fishermen and whalers arriving from Europe and Newfoundland.

At Red Bay National Historic Site , the remains of Basque (Spanish) whaling boats have been recovered. An interpretive center pieces together the historical clues.

Official site: http://www.pc.gc.ca/eng/lhn-nhs/nl/redbay/index.aspx

More on Canada

25 Unforgettable Things to Do in Newfoundland

• Canada / In the City / Outdoors

Visiting Newfoundland? Don’t miss these things to do.

Have you seen  Come From Away on Broadway ? Newfoundland and Labrador is the easternmost province of Canada, we didn’t know much about it until we watched the show in NY.

Though Newfoundland is filled with awe-inspiring landscapes, icebergs, and puffins, what truly makes them stand apart from any other place we visited is the people. Everyone was so friendly, warm, and welcoming, and even the visitors we encountered would not stop talking about the hospitality here. It was next level.

A big thank you to Legendary Coasts of Eastern Newfoundland for hosting our trip. All opinions are always our own. This post may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. Read our full disclosure  for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.

Last Updated: January 3, 2024

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• 25 Best Things to Do in Newfoundland
• Map of Things to Do in Newfoundland
• More Things to Do in Newfoundland
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During our visit, we only got a chance to explore the Legendary Coasts of Eastern Newfoundland. There aren’t many places I want to revisit, but after a taste of Newfoundland, we know we have to go back.

1. Gros Morne National Park

Rocky Harbour, NL A0K 4N0, Canada,  map

Gros Morne National Park is known for beautiful fjords, towering mountains, sprawling beaches, forests, and cliffs. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and really deserves a guide of its own, but we’ll wait until we get a chance to visit ourselves. A few highlights you shouldn’t miss are:

• The Tablelands – a moon-like landscape with lots of hikes and views
• Western Brook Pond – take a cruise to see the cliffs from the water
• Lobster Cove Lighthouse – great whale watching and sunset spot

See More: Your Complete List of 400+ National Parks in the US

2. Cape Spear Lighthouse National Historic Site

Blackhead Road, Cape Spear, St. John’s, NL A1C 5H2, Canada,  map

This historic site is just South of St. John’s and has plenty of trails to explore and beautiful panoramic viewpoints. If you follow the trails down to the coast, you’ll also find the Easternmost Point of North America.

3. Signal Hill National Historic Site, St Johns

230 Signal Hill Rd, St. John’s, NL A1A 1B3, Canada,  map

This was the first stop we made after arriving in St. John’s. It was the perfect way to get a literal overview of the city. Signal Hill was once the site of the city’s oceanfront military defenses, but now there are hiking trails and a panoramic view of the city. You can also do a guided tour.

Pro Tip: If you climb Cabot Tower, you can get an even higher view. 

4. Quidi Vidi Village, St Johns

10 Maple View Rd, St. John’s, NL A1A 5W2, Canada,  map

This picturesque town lies along Quidi Vidi Lake. Walk the narrow streets or grab a drink at the Quidi Vidi Brewing Company. There are even trails that take you up on the hills to get a top down view.

Local Tip: Parking is very limited. We kept trying to find a ‘closer’ parking spot and wasted time driving around. Pull in to any spot you see and you can easily walk around the area.

5. Get Schreeched-In on George St, St John’s

George St, St. John’s, NL,  map

Newfoundland has a ceremony for come from aways (any non-Newfoundlanders) known as the “screech-in”. It usually involves a shot of screech (the local rum), a short recitation, and kissing a cod. George Street is full of bars and pubs where you can get screeched-in but be sure to check their schedules. Some require reservations and others don’t. Many bars only do them a certain time of day or week. 

Local Tip: We thought we could just drop in on one spontaneously, but that wasn’t the case. Since we were limited on time, we didn’t get a chance to get screeched-in. Try Trapper John’s or Christian’s Bar. If you miss it in St John’s, you can find plenty of places to get screeched, but it might require some planning ahead.

6. The Rooms

9 Bonaventure Ave, St. John’s, NL A1C 5P9, Canada,  map

Since we’re not huge museum people, we mainly wanted to visit for the views from the top of the building. The views did not disappoint, but we also ended up spending a couple of hours checking out all the exhibits. The Rooms art gallery and museum gives you more natural and cultural history of the area, and it has a few fun interactive areas too.

7. Jellybean Row, St Johns

1-245 Duckworth St, St. John’s, NL A1C 1G8, Canada,  map

The brightly colored homes in St John’s are better known as Jellybean Row. We initially thought it was just a specific set of houses, but it actually covers multiple streets, so you can wander around to find the area you love most.

Local Tip: Take a photography tour with Moe from  Far East Photography Tours  since he knows all the best spots. After visiting Jellybean Row, he also took us to other scenic spots only a local photographer would know.

8. Town of Dildo

Dildo, Newfoundland and Labrador, A0B 1P0,  map

Yes, Dildo. That’s the name of the town. It recently received a lot of attention after Jimmy Kimmel became an honorary mayor. He put up ‘hollywood-style’ Dildo sign on the hills that people stop by to take photos of. You can also stop by the popular Dildo Brewing & Museum, go whale watching or rent a dory boat to get a view from the water.

Local Tip: The  Dildo Boathouse Inn  was the perfect home base in Dildo. Dennis and Paula make you feel like home and the rooms are beautiful. It was our favorite place to stay during our trip.

9. Whale Watching with Sea of Whales Adventure

12 Ash’s Ln, Trinity, NL A0C 2S0, Canada,  map

This was hands down the best whale watching trip we’ve been on. We were over whale watching, but this trip made us understand why people go whale watching again.

Since we visited on the late end of whale watching season, we were initially reluctant to go. Plus, we’ve been on plenty of boat trips where it’s primarily waiting around for hours for an anti-climactic spotting of a whale fin.

These guys from Sea of Whales Adventure know what they’re doing. With 7 different launching points on the Bonavista Peninsula, they are able to launch closest to where whales have been last active. During our trip, we hung out with 2 curious humpback whales, saw a whale breach for the first time, and witnessed a crazy blue fin tuna feeding frenzy.

See More: 15 Best Places to Whale Watch in the US + When to Go

10. East Coast Trail

Cape Broyle, NL A0A 1P0, Canada,  map

Whether you want to do just a small portion of it or try to conquer the entire 336 km trail, the East Coast Trail is a great way to see Newfoundland. The developed trail comprises of 25 wilderness paths and interacts with over 30 communities.

Some of the highlights you can find on the trail are:

• The Spout (wave-driven geyser)
• 50-meter suspension bridge at La Manche
• Abandoned coastal settlements
• 30 historic communities
• Colony of Avalon archaeological dig at Ferryland
• 8 historic lighthouses
• 3 Ecological Reserves

Local Tip: Their website has a great feature where you can narrow down which paths you want to explore based on difficulty.

See More: 15 Best Day Hikes in the US to Put On Your Bucket List

Gander, Newfoundland and Labrador Canada,  map

This small town in northeastern Newfoundland that was made famous by the  Broadway musical  Come From Away . The story revolves around the planes that were rerouted here during 9/11 and how the community stepped up to welcome people from all over the world. Even for the most jaded New Yorker, it made you believe in humanity again.

Also, can you believe Gander International Airport also used to be the world’s busiest airport? Before the age of jets, planes would have to refuel here.

The North Atlantic Aviation Museum is also a popular stop to check out how Newfoundland contributed to WWII.

12. Skerwink Trail, Port Rexton

Port Rexton, NL A0C 2H0, Canada,  map

I know East Coast Trail is famous, but this was our favorite day hike during our trip. The 4.7 km loop takes you to beautiful viewpoints of rugged coast, panoramic views, and a chance to see whales. Maybe it was the whales, but the hike was epic!

13. Iceberg Alley

Twillingate, Newfoundland and Labrador Canada,  map

Newfoundland is one of the best places in the world to see icebergs. Every spring, icebergs of all shapes, sizes, and colors float by and bring in visitors to see them.

Iceberg Alley runs from the coast of Labrador to the southeast coast of Newfoundland (basically the entire coast is a prime spot for icebergs). Here are a few popular spots you can access by road:

• Battle Harbour
• Point Amour
• St. Anthony
• Twillingate
• Fogo Island
• Change Islands

Local Tip: IcebergFinder.com is the go-to resource to track icebergs each season.

14. Cape Bonavista Lighthouse, Bonavista

PW27+HV Bonavista, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada,  map

Bonavista Lighthouse is a candy cane colored lighthouse and was definitely worth the detour. It’s also one of two easy-to-see puffin colonies. All you have to do is head towards the back of the lighthouse and you’ll see them on a giant rock to the right just off the coast. There are also a bunch of trails following the coast around the lighthouse. 

Local Tip: These puffins are much farther though, so bring your longest telephoto lens ( this is the one we use) .

15. Town of Bonavista

Bonavista, Newfoundland and Labrador Canada,  map

We loved exploring the town of Bonavista! You can check out the shops, enjoy a beach boil-up, or rent bikes and go for a picnic. Some highlights from our trip:

• Beach Boil Up with Bonavista Adventure Tours
• Picnic Lunch with Bonavista Bicycle Picnics and Cafe
• Newfoundland Mockbeggar Plantation
• Ryan Premises National Historic Site
• East Coast Glow to pick up souvenirs for friends. Their soaps are made from foraged ingredients and iceberg water.

16. Dungeon Provincial Park, Bonavista

ROUTE 238, Bonavista, NL A0C 1B0, Canada,  map

If you’re in Bonavista, stop by the Dungeon Provincial Par to check out a large collapsed sea cave with a natural archway. Also, be sure to explore the surrounding area. We almost missed amazing photo ops just a few minutes away from the sea cave.

Pro Tip: We went when they had the worst light (high noon), which made the Dungeon extremely challenging to shoot.

17. Terra Nova National Park

Trans-Canada Hwy Glovertown, Traytown, NL A0G 4K0, Canada,  map

This is Canada’s easternmost national park. Camp by the sea in Southwest Arm, play on the sandy beaches of Sandy Pond, or kayak as you look for wildlife and icebergs.

The Visitor Centre is a great place to start to get all the info you need.

18. L’anse Aux Meadows National Historic Site, St Lunaire-Griquet

Division No. 9, Subd. D, NL A0K 2X0, Canada,  map

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the only authenticated Norse site in North America. There’s proof that Leif Erickson and other Norse explorers settled here. Learn more about the history and get a glimpse of how they lived.

Be sure to explore Norstead, a recreated Viking port of trade. You can learn to throw an axe, spin yard, or even take a pottery class. They also have a ship that you can explore.

19. Mistaken Point Ecological Reserve

NL-10, Portugal Cove South, NL A0A 4B0, Canada,  map

This is the newest UNESCO World Heritage Site and was designated because it’s one of the most significant fossil sites in the world. There are fossils of the oldest, large complex multicellular life-forms found anywhere on Earth, known as Ediacara biota. They can be found in other parts of the world, but the sheer number and variety found at Mistaken Point is significant.

20. Elliston Puffin SIte and Root Cellars

Maberly Rd, Elliston, NL A0C 1W0, Canada,  map

Elliston has the closest land views of puffins in North America. We arrived just before sunrise and had the whole place to ourselves along with thousands of puffins. There are also Root Cellars that you can explore on the way to the viewing site.

Local Tip: Sunrise is the best time to go to avoid crowds and we’re told that if you stay still enough, puffins sometimes land near you (we didn’t have any luck with it).

21. Klondike Trail to SPillar’s Cove, Elliston

1N0, Bonavista Bay Hwy, Elliston, NL A0C 1N0, Canada,  map

Head over to the Klondike Trail to see the beautiful landscape of Spillars Cove. It’s roughly 1.3m each way and there is a large chimney type rock structure jutting out of the ocean.

Local Tip: We didn’t know where the trail started and ended up driving most of the trail until we felt like the car couldn’t handle it any more. Turns out you don’t really have to hike if you don’t want.

22. Red Bay National Historic Site, Labrador

Red Bay, NL A0K 4K0, Canada,  map

This used to be a major whale port where the Basques made whale oil. It was actually the first large-scale whale oil production in the world. Today, you can explore the old whaling town and UNESCO World Heritage Site as you learn more about its history. Be sure to stop by the interpretation centre to see the type of boats they used to harpoon the giant beasts.

23. Cape St Mary’s Ecological Reserve

Saint Bride’s, NL A0B 2Z0, Canada,  map

This ecological reserve is home to the most accessible seabird colony in North America so it is popular amongst birders. You’ll find thousands of gulls, razorbills, black-legged kittiwakes, northern gannets, and cormorants. Beyond the birds, there are trails to explore along the dramatic coastline.

24. Captain James Cook Historic Site, Corner Brook

Mayfair Ave, Corner Brook, NL A2H 6M7, Canada,  map

Explore the town of Corner Brook and see the statue of the famous British explorer, Captain James Cook. The historic site also gives you a great view of the city and the Blomidon Mountains. While you’re in town, you can also check out the Stream Trail Network, Corner Brook Caves, and the Corner Brook Museum & Archives.

25. Fogo Island

Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada,  map

Head to Fogo Island to explore the largest offshore island of Newfoundland and Labrador. Many of the homes, stages, and stores have been unchanged for decades and Fogo has become a haven for artists from around the world. Check out the Great Auk Sculpture, Fogo Island, Tilting, and Brimstone Head Park.

Map of Things to DO in Newfoundland

More Things to DO in Newfoundland and Labrador

• Album Rock, Raleigh, Ship Cove
• Abandoned Moravian Mission of Hebron
• Arches Provincial Park, Portland Creek
• Battle Harbour – salt fish capital of Labrador and has centuries of history preserved
• Bell Island Community Mine Museum, Bell Island + also on Bell Island – Point Riche Lighthouse and Sacred Heart Grotto
• Beothuk Interpretation Centre Provincial Historic Site, Stoneville
• Blow Me Down Provincial Park, York Harbour
• Burin Peninsula
• Burnt Cape Ecological Reserve, Raleigh
• Cape Norman Lighthouse
• Cape Race Lighthouse
• Castle Hill National historic Site, Jerseyside
• Channel Head Lighthouse, Channel-Port aux Basques 
• Churchill Falls Generating Station
• Dildo Run Provincial Park
• Earhart Airfield, Harbour Grace – where Amelia Earhart became the first woman to fly solo across Atlantic
• Ferryland Lighthouse, Ferryland
• Greenspond Island, New-Wes-Valley
• Humber Valley
• J.T. Cheeseman Provincial Park, Cape Ray
• Lockston Path Provincial Park, Port Rexton
• Manuels River Hibernia Interpretation Centre, Conception Bay
• Marble Mountain
• Mount Caubvick – skiing
• Museum of the Flat Earth, Seldom
• Port au Choix National Historic Site and Point Riche Lighthouse. Also here: Museum of Whales and Things
• Quirpon Island
• Rising Tide Theatre, Trinity Bight
• Rose Blanche Lighthouse
• Salmonier Nature Park, Holyrood
• Sandbanks Provincial Park, Burgeo
• S.S. Kyle, Harbour Grace
• Torngat Mountains National Park, Northern Coast
• Trinity Loop, Charleston – abandoned amusement park
• Walled Landscape of Grates Cove, Grates Cove 

Essential TIps for Visiting Newfoundland

• Newfoundland & Labrador has its own time zone (90 minutes head of Eastern time).
• No one lives in Labrador. 94% of the province lives on Newfoundland, and 40% of those people are in St. John’s.
• Bring a  travel adapter  to make sure you keep all your devices charged.
• Dress in layers so you can adjust to the weather.
• A  weatherproof backpack  is great to keep all our gear protected in case it rains.  This one  is our favorite camera + laptop  backpack for travel .
• Saint Pierre and Miquelon is just off the coast of Newfoundland and is still under French control.
• Packable raincoats. We love our  Arc’teryx ones .
• If you’re looking to shoot wildlife, bring a long lens like this one  100-400mm . For general travel photos, we love the mid-range zoom lens ( this is the one  we travel with most).

Best Places to Stay

• Get comprehensive insurance for your trip.
• Download these helpful language apps .
• Find a great deal on Newfoundland hotels .
• Arrange a rental car for your trip.
• Book a tour for your visit.
• Get airport lounge access .
• Buy a travel charger to keep your devices charged.
• Get a new backpack for your trip.
• Buy a Newfoundland travel guide .
• Pack the appropriate shoes for your trip.
• Don’t forget your in-flight essentials .
• Hikes of Eastern Newfoundland
• Newfoundland and Labrador Travel Reference Map
• Moon Newfoundland & Labrador
• Lonely Planet Canada

Any other places or things to do in Newfoundland that we’re missing?

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“Discovery consists not of seeking new lands but in seeing with new eyes ” – M. Proust

Esther + Jacob

Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city in depth every year and currently base themselves in Las Vegas.

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Must-see attractions in St John's

Signal Hill National Historic Site

St John's

The city's most famous landmark is worth it for the glorious view alone, though there's much more to see. The tiny castle atop the hill is Cabot Tower,…

Not many museums offer the chance to see a giant squid, hear avant-garde sound sculptures and peruse ancient weaponry all under one roof. But that's The…

Over Signal Hill, away from town, is the tiny picturesque village of Quidi Vidi. Check out the 18th-century battery and the lakeside regatta museum, but…

CA Pippy Park

The feature-filled 13-sq-km CA Pippy Park coats downtown's northwestern edge. Recreational facilities include walking trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, a…

Anglican Cathedral of St John the Baptist

Serving Canada's oldest parish (1699), this Anglican cathedral is one of the finest examples of ecclesiastical Gothic architecture in North America…

Johnson Geo Centre

Nowhere in the world can geo-history, going back to the birth of the earth, be accessed so easily as in Newfoundland. The Geo Centre does a grand job of…

The Fluvarium, a glass-sided cross-section of a 'living' river, is located across the street from the campground at CA Pippy Park. Viewers can peer…

Royal St John's Regatta Museum

Quidi Vidi Lake is the site of the city-stopping St John's Regatta. The Royal St John's Regatta Museum is on the 2nd floor of the boathouse, and gives an…

Memorial University Botanical Garden

The premier botanical garden of the province, with nature trails, a large cultivated garden and a greenhouse within a 100-acre nature reserve.

Basilica of St John the Baptist

Built in 1855, the soaring twin spires of the basilica pierce the sky and are visible all the way from Signal Hill. Its design marks the revival of…

Bannerman Park

The largest municipal park in St John's has a very British feel, with its manicured lawns, shady trees, surrounding brick buildings and general green good…

Cabot Tower

Construction on this squat stone tower began in 1898 to mark both Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee and the 400th anniversary of John Cabot's discovery of…

Signal Hill Visitor Centre

Features interactive displays on the site's history. The last North American battle of the Seven Years' War took place here in 1762, and Britain's victory…

Newman Wine Vaults

Dating from the 1780s, these dark, cool wine vaults are where the Newman company aged its port until 1996 (when EU regulations forced the process back to…

Harbourside Park

With iconic statues of a Newfoundland dog and a Labrador Retriever, this park hosts the City of St John’s free Music at Harbourside lunchtime concert…

Bowring Park

This beautiful 200-acre city park features a duck pond, tennis courts, swimming pool and playground.

Quidi Vidi Battery

Built in 1762 and still symbolically guarding the bay from up the hill is Quidi Vidi Battery. Built by the French after they took St John's, the battery…

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Must Do Canada

The Best Things to Do in Canada

The Best Things To Do in St. John’s, Newfoundland

May 3, 2021 By Matthew G. Bailey 51 Comments

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Things to Do in St. John’s Travel Guide Updated: January 15th, 2023

Newfoundland is one of my favourite places in all of Canada. There’s something about the friendly people, the landscapes, the food, the music, and the overall culture that just makes me want to go back each and every year. By far, it’s the most unique province in Canada, with its own very distinct personality. It was our first stop on our 150-day road trip back in 2017 , and from day one, locals kept asking us what we were doing (they saw us with cameras) and then proceeded to invite us to their homes for dinner. That’s just the kind of place it is.

If you’re flying into Newfoundland, there’s a good chance that you’ll be flying into St. John’s, the capital city of Newfoundland. St. John’s is an incredibly vibrant town, steeped in history and full of things to do. You could easily spend a week in this area and not run out of activities. From learning about the history of the oldest English-founded city in all of North America to whale watching and lively parties, St. John’s is an incredible place to visit.

Things To Do In St John’s, Newfoundland, Canada

When you visit Newfoundland, you simply cannot miss St John’s Canada. It’s the liveliest city in the province and where most of the population lives. It’s also home to the biggest airport, making it much easier to visit than other parts of the province. If you do make it here, here are the best things you shouldn’t miss.

Walking Tour of Downtown St. John’s

Whether you find an organized walking tour or just do one by yourself, an afternoon stroll around downtown St. John’s is an absolute must-do. From colourful homes to historic churches, the downtown core is small and easily walkable. First, there’s Water Street , which is over 400 years old, making it one of the oldest in North America. In fact, it’s still a meeting place for sailors from all over the world as it’s where the transatlantic cruise ships dock. Then there’s Military Road, with nice views and the incredible Basilica of St. John the Baptist (1842-92). You’ll also want to find Church Street and get into the little neighbourhoods to see the photo-famous colourful row-houses, which were painted that way so that it would be easier for sailors coming home at night to find their homes! Visit a few of the restaurants, bakeries, and souvenir shops to complete your tour. We haven’t experienced this one yet but as of July 2022, St. John’s Walking Tours is now offering two different walking tours around the city.

Visit Signal Hill National Historic Site

Did you know that St. John’s is the oldest English-founded city in all of North America? Well, Signal Hill Newfoundland is the place that protected it from intruders. Here you’ll get to see sweeping views of the coastline and the city, as well as the many canons that stood guard. But here’s another incredible fact; this is where Guglielmo Marconi received the first transatlantic wireless signal in 1901. Take a moment to go inside Cabot Tower and walk the trails that lead to the historic fortifications at Queen’s Battery Barracks. Each season brings different delights. In the spring you might see icebergs, and in the summer, you might see whales!

Party on George Street Newfoundland

If you want to say you’ve partied on the most famous street in all of Newfoundland, George Street is where you’ll want to go. This historic street is full of bars, pubs, nightclubs, and restaurants, all catering to different people and is definitely one of the best St. Johns’s activities. It’s also closed to traffic during the evenings, making it a great place for pedestrians. Whether you’re looking for old-fashioned Newfoundland music complete with fiddles or new-age pop, there’s a place for you. If you’re looking to experience a true taste of Newfoundland, I’d recommend going to O’Reilly’s to see if they have traditional live music on the go. If not, other places likely will. Check around and ask who’s playing. When a good “Newfy” group gets up on stage, it’s an incredibly fun time. If you happen to be here in the summertime, expect mega crowds because this is one of the most fun things to do in St John’s. Bonus: You might even see famous people poking around. When we were in The Duke of Duckworth, we saw Newfoundland’s Allan Doyle walk in.

Get Screeched In

If it’s your first time in Newfoundland, you’re probably going to hear about a tradition called “Getting Screeched In”. This refers to a ceremony to make you an honorary Newfoundlander. It’s a fun thing to do in St. John’s and consists of kissing a codfish, reciting a Newfoundland phrase, and drinking a shot of Screech whiskey. Sometimes there is a little food as well, but those are three basic things that will always be there. There are a variety of ways to get screeched in, with the two most popular options being in a bar on George Street or on one of the many boat tours. Either way is fun. We’ve actually done it more than once. We really liked the atmosphere at a small pub called Christian’s, which is right on George Street. However, we also saw people doing it on the O’Brien’s boat tour and it looked like a lot of fun as well.

Get Out on a Boat

For an island entrenched in marine history, you cannot leave the province without getting on some sort of boat (or joining a guided boat tour ) and going out to explore the Atlantic ocean. In the summer, you’ll be able to witness Humpback Whales and Puffins , and in the spring, you’ll be able to see icebergs! It’s also a great way to see the coastline and how rugged the island is. Either way, visiting an island province without spending time on the water participating in one of the most popular Newfound activities would be pure blasphemy.

Get a Traditional Food Experience

On our last trip to St. John’s, we got to do something really unique; a traditional food experience. Thanks to Lori and her company Cod Sounds , you can learn how to forage for food and cook using traditional methods from ages gone by. Due to the weather, we couldn’t experience the full splendour of the foraging tour that Lori created but we did learn about the cooking process of wild foods such as moose, lobster, cod cheeks, mackerel, and homemade bread and jam. She even made us rhubarb tea, which was surprisingly good. I mean, really good! I know for sure that when we’re back in St. John’s, we’re doing the full tour!

Take a Historical Walking Tour

For a city with so much history, it makes sense to go on a walking tour with someone who knows it all. The most famous historical walking tour is hosted by  Michael Boyle . His enthusiasm for telling the stories of Newfoundland really brings his tours to life. You’ll visit historical buildings, and landmarks, and get a taste of the literary culture and folklore of Newfoundland.

Visit The Rooms

It might sound like a hotel, but it’s definitely not. The Rooms house the Provincial Museum, the Provincial Archives, and the Art Gallery of Newfoundland and Labrador, making it one of the top St John’s attractions. This is the place to go for a deep introduction to the local culture and history. It also has an observation deck with beautiful views of the entire harbour.

The Johnson GEO Centre

Beautifully designed to incorporate the surrounding terrain, the Johnson GEO Centre takes visitors beneath Signal Hill and into the 550-million-year-old rock bed. Interactive exhibits describe the earth’s geological makeup, cultural history, and Newfoundland life. Young or old, this is a really cool place to visit.

Stroll Through Quidi Vidi

Last but not least, the little seaside fishing community of Quidi Vidi is a worthy stop. Located on the north side of Signal Hill, it’s home to the now-restored Quidi Vidi Battery, which overlooks the inlet, as well as the popular Quidi Vidi Brewery, which makes Iceberg Beer! It’s simply a small scenic place that attracts photographers from all over. It’s also home to quite possibly the oldest house in British Canada, which was built in 1740 and lives inside the fort.

Where to Stay in St John’s 

There is a wide variety of accommodations in St. John’s, ranging from bed & breakfasts to hostels and hotels. The best location would be close to the waterfront, but if you have a car or don’t mind taking a taxi, farther out is okay as well. It’s also cheaper. If possible, stay at a bed and breakfast as it can be a good way to meet locals. Some of our favourites include:

Alt Hotel St. John’s : When possible, we always recommend staying in a hotel that actually adds to the experience and the Alt Hotel in St. John’s is one of them. Located right by the harbour, we highly recommend getting a room with a view. There’s nothing quite like pressing a button on the wall next to your bed and having a curtain raised to the ceiling to unveil one of the best views in the city. From here, you can walk almost anywhere you need to go, including all the way up to Cabot Tower or over to Georges Street for a party. The Alt Hotel has everything you need, including comfortable beds, spacious rooms, underground parking, in-room Nespresso machines, flat-screen TVs, modern decor, and a really cool lobby with a pool table, cafe, and one of the top restaurants in the city.

Best Western Plus St. John’s Airport Hotel and Suites : If you need to stay out by the airport, then the best hotel is the Best Western. It opened in late 2018 and is very beautiful. The lobby is one of the nicest we’ve seen, they have a great pool and hot tub, and they have a pretty good restaurant on-site as well. The breakfast is big and free, and the parking is ample.

Where to Eat in St. John’s

There’s no shortage of good restaurants in St. John’s and we highly recommend you try seafood when visiting anywhere in Newfoundland. Another popular thing in Newfoundland is wild game, such as rabbit and moose. We highly recommend talking to locals and getting ideas for where to eat. But to start you off, here are some popular options.

Terre Restaurant & Café: If you have the budget and are looking for the latest place in town, Terre Restaurant is a great place to check out. Located within the Alt Hotel, this restaurant serves up small unique dishes such as Grilled Quail, Raw Diver Scallops, and Beer Can Chicken for the Table. Keep in mind that the servings are quite small, so I would expect to budget close to $100 per person, maybe more if you’re going to sip on one of their signature cocktails such as their Rhubarb Cosmo or Whisky Collins. Reservations are recommended.

Peaceful Loft: This is probably the first vegan restaurant I have ever eaten at but I am so happy we found this place. The owner is from Macau, China and absolutely loves Newfoundland. He might just be the friendliest person I’ve ever met and just a pure joy to be around. He believes in good vibes, which is why he chooses vegan. No harm to any living thing. Even if you love meat like me, his food is excellent and he is a great guy to meet. Try the lotus paste buns. Mmmm. Located at 250 Duckworth Street.

Duke of Duckworth: Tucked into a cool alley of Duckworth, this is one of the most popular pubs in St. John’s. We even saw Allan Doyle here once. For those who don’t know, he was the lead singer of Great Big Sea. Although this is a nice English pub, it’s also known for its good pub food, including a very popular Fish n’ Chips. So, whether you’re looking for a heavy meal or a pint of beer, this is a good spot to go.

Where is St John’s Newfoundland

St. John’s is located on the eastern tip of Newfoundland. It was the last city in Canada before hitting the Atlantic ocean. In fact, many planes going to Ireland, for example, stop here to make sure everything is in order before crossing the Atlantic. If you’re wondering how to get to St John’s Newfoundland, we have you covered. There are basically three ways. You can fly, you can drive, or you can get there by boat. If you drive from outside of Newfoundland, you’ll have to take a 6-hour ferry, which will bring you to the Western point of NFLD. From there, it’s about a 6-8 hour drive to St. John’s, which is on the opposite side of the island.

Getting to St. John’s

If you’re a visitor looking for different ways of getting to Newfoundland’s capital city, here’s some practical advice on how to get there.

Getting to St. John’s by Car

Ferry to Newfoundland: The only way to drive to St. John’s from outside of Newfoundland is to take the ferry from North Sydney, Nova Scotia to Port aux Basques, Newfoundland. The ferry takes approximately six hours. Once in Port aux Basques, you’ll have another 10-hour drive to St. John’s. St. John’s is the farthest east you can go in terms of cities, so afterwards, you’ll come back.

It’s a long drive but a very scenic one, especially if you take the time to explore the areas you’ll be passing by. The ferry is straightforward, though it can be rough depending on the conditions of the sea. It’s a huge ferry though, so the main thing to worry about would be sea sickness.

Getting to St. John’s by Plane

St. John’s is home to the St. John’s International Airport , which is the biggest and busiest airport for Newfoundland. Compared to other major cities in Canada, it’s a small airport but has everything you need. Please keep in mind, however, that rental car companies do close late at night. If you do arrive after hours, there are hotels that are even within walking distance from the airport, including the Best Western Plus.

For transportation into the city, you’ll need to rent a car, take public transit, take a shuttle, or hop in a taxi. The drive to downtown St. John’s is only 15 minutes or so. The city is quite compact.

Getting Around St. John’s

Once in St. John’s, there are many ways of getting around.

• Driving: If you have your own car, driving around is fairly straightforward. The only word of caution I would give you is to be careful on the hills. St. John’s is like San Fransisco. The city is full of steep hills. In the summer, it’s not so bad, but if you happen to be there during snowfall or heavy rain, it might be dangerous for those with little experience. Other than that, you should be fine.
• Public Transportation: St. John’s is home to a Metrobus that navigates most of the city. The cost is $2.50 and you’ll need the exact change. If you’ll be using it a lot, you might consider buying an M-Card or multiple ride passes. You can purchase these at various locations, including St. John’s City Hall and Avalon Mall. All low-floor Metrobuses offer free WiFi. If you are disabled, you’ll want to ask about the GoBus Accessible Transit.
• Taxi: Like all Canadian cities, you’ll see taxi services all over the place, including at the airport. Taxis are metered and start at $3.75. Some taxi companies even offer tours. You’ll need to speak to the driver and/or company about the cost.
• Walking: If you’re located downtown, you’d be surprised how many things are within walking distance. Due to all the hills, it will be quite the workout, but certainly one of the better ways to experience St. John’s. Areas like downtown, Harbour Drive, Water Street, and Duckworth Street should all be walked, whether or not you have a car. Plus, you can go find the famous colourful row houses around the city and not worry about parking, which can be limited. Some other famous areas as well, such as Quidi Vidi, are only a 5 minutes drive away, which means walking wouldn’t take very long either.

Best Time to Visit Newfoundland

If you travel to St John’s Newfoundland, you’re likely wondering what time of year has the best weather. Without a doubt, summer is the most popular time to go. However, this is also when the peak tourist season is. Spring and Fall can also be good times to visit Newfoundland. It may also depend on what you want to see. While the summer definitely has the best weather, spring is when you’ll see icebergs. Once the icebergs are gone and the warmer weather arrives, you’ll have a better chance of seeing whales. Visiting Newfoundland in September is a great time to see fall colours, but the west coast is a more popular area for this. If you’re looking for things to do in Newfoundland in August, there’s quite a bit because this is the warmest time of year. You can go whale watching, hiking, fishing, camping, or check out some of the popular festivals such as the Newfoundland and Labrador Folk Festival and the Busker’s Festival of St. John’s. A Newfoundland winter is a harsh winter. It can be cold and damp with a lot of snow. While there certainly is beauty to the winter season, this would be the least popular time to visit. You wouldn’t be able to get out on a boat and it would be too cold to walk anywhere. However, there are plenty of places to go ice-fishing and snowmobiling. Most tourism businesses are closed in the winter, so if you decide to come to Newfoundland at this time, you’ll want to make sure your hotels, tours and anything else you need are booked and confirmed.

Our favourite time? We love Newfoundland from July to September. However, June is also a great time as you might catch some icebergs as well.

More Things To Do

St. John’s is easily one of the best places to visit in Newfoundland. However, there are lots of other destinations that are equally as awesome. It depends on what you’re looking for. For city life, St. John’s is the only place. There’s also Corner Brook, but it’s much smaller. There are two national parks on the island, which include Terra Nova National Park and Gros Morne National Park. Gros Morne is one of my favourite national parks in Canada. There are land-locked fjords, mountains, seaside villages, and a plethora of hiking opportunities. You can even walk on the Earth’s mantle! Newfoundland’s west coast has much more spectacular scenery in my opinion, mainly because of the mountains.

What makes Newfoundland unique though are the little towns scattered about the island. This is where you’ll feel the heart of Newfoundland. Some popular places to see in Newfoundland include Trinity, Bonavista, Twillingate, Dildo, and Petty Harbour, just to name a few.

For more Newfoundland Travel Guides, check out these articles below:

• Things to Do in Newfoundland
• Driving Newfoundland’s Viking Trail
• Five Great Newfoundland Hiking Trails
• Newfoundland’s Iceberg Festival
• Visiting St. Pierre and Miquelon

About Matthew G. Bailey

Matthew G. Bailey is the founder and editor-in-chief of Must Do Canada. Growing up in Alberta to a mother from Quebec and a father from Newfoundland, Matt spent his childhood playing hockey under the Northern Lights and hanging out in the forest before moving to Calgary and travelling to more than 250 cities spanning 42 countries and 6 continents. He loves travel, learning new things, playing sports, writing, making videos, photography, and scuba diving. You can also find him at LiveLimitless.net .

Reader Interactions

January 4, 2020 at 7:35 pm

I want to see the Grand Banks. I read about it in second grade many years ago and it has always been my dream to “see”it. When is the best time to visit it? Is it possible to get to the area by boat or can it only be viewed by plane? What city/town would best to access it? Resources?

January 5, 2020 at 3:58 pm

So, the Grand Banks is down by Fortune, the same place you can take a ferry to St. Pierre and Miquelon (France). No plane needed. You could probably find a boat tour or someone to bring you out in a boat, or take the ferry to St. Pierre and it’s basically the Grand Banks in that area: https://www.mustdocanada.com/things-to-do-in-saint-pierre-and-miquelon/ – And Newfoundland is beautiful 🙂

May 13, 2021 at 6:45 am

I’ve always wanted to see St-Pierre and Miquelon, so yes it seems like a nice place to go.

May 12, 2021 at 4:29 pm

June 19, 2021 at 9:09 am

St John’s is just breath-taking. Absolutely love it there!! I was there once in February and dream of returning one day.

January 13, 2021 at 2:22 pm

Your narration is so lively Matt. I’ve seen your YT vids also; hope to join you people in a world tour together.

January 20, 2021 at 7:56 pm

Thank you so much! Doing a tour would be cool to do 🙂

February 5, 2021 at 10:14 am

I lived in Newfoundland when I was in second grade and my father was stationed at Pepperrell Air Force Base. I have such strong memories of St. John’s despite my young age: the snow and my father building me igloos, seeing Queen Elizabeth and Prince Phillip driving by our front door when they were on tour in the provinces, the fresh scallops we ate regularly, and especially, the wonderful warmth of its people. In fact, an elderly lady down the road from our taught me to knit! Someday, someday, I’ll go back. And I can’t wait.

February 5, 2021 at 2:33 pm

Wow, those are quite the memories. I’m sure much has changed but also much has remained the same. We hope you make it back 🙂

May 5, 2021 at 2:57 pm

Love all your informative and useful info about Newfoundland. We were so fortunate to visit St. John’s and the Avalon Penninsula (Irish Loop) in late August /early Sept. 2019. Surprisingly we had amazing weather whewe were there. We got out of St. John’s on one of the last flights on Sept 7th as Hurricane Dorian bore down on the area. Quite a way to end our stay on the Rock.

We spent a total of 10 days on the Rock and while all the sights, wildlife, and history were amazing it is truly the culture, people and music that make it a must see for all Canadians. Would love to get back someday. Thanks from a prairie “flat lander”. Loved the Duke of Duckworth which was around the corner from our rental accommodation.

May 5, 2021 at 6:15 pm

haha yeah we totally agree. The people and culture make it stand out from the rest of Canada. We’re born and raised in Alberta too so NFLD is quite the change…

May 7, 2021 at 8:26 pm

We’d love to visit the east coast. Someday!

May 8, 2021 at 3:37 am

Great 👍 info. Hope we can get there in 2022.

May 8, 2021 at 7:45 am

Can’t wait to visit when things get back to normal.

May 8, 2021 at 10:26 am

What a great collection of information! Visited NL a couple of years ago and put on 3000 km and 30 lbs! 😂 Loved this province And its people (truly the friendliest in Canada!).

May 9, 2021 at 1:46 pm

Yes awesome

May 11, 2021 at 3:33 am

Yes b’ye!

May 11, 2021 at 9:59 am

Great article…someday I’ll get there!

May 11, 2021 at 5:14 pm

I love this article!

May 11, 2021 at 10:24 pm

Wow this makes me really want to visit and party on George street! I have never left Ontario and I would love to visit here.

May 12, 2021 at 9:48 am

haha yes, we miss the Irish music on Saturdays

May 12, 2021 at 6:33 am

I can’t wait to go there. I had a June 4, 2020 flight. Road trip from Deer Lake to St. John’s……..coming soon in 2022

May 12, 2021 at 8:49 am

May 12, 2021 at 8:56 am

Fantastic article! Made me a proud Newfoundlander

May 12, 2021 at 10:15 am

This is definitely on my Bucket List.

May 13, 2021 at 3:32 pm

I absolutely love St John’s. Went for work a few years back (in February) and ai can’t wait to go back one day. During the time when the bergs are coming down and when the whales are migrating.

May 12, 2021 at 2:10 pm

Love the East Coast. St. John’s, Newfoundland was a great trip. Looking to go back again!

May 13, 2021 at 2:05 pm

This is great and reminds me of my memorable trip to Newfoundland!

May 13, 2021 at 8:57 pm

Loved this article! Planning a trip next summer so it was a great read!

May 14, 2021 at 6:38 am

Bowring Park is a gem in St. John’s that tourists should visit. One of the Royal Newfoundland Regiment Caribou Monuments is located within the park. There are great trails and a duck pond.

May 14, 2021 at 9:02 am

I have never been, but would love to visit one day.

May 17, 2021 at 12:31 pm

Great tips for whenever I make my east coast trip with my bestie—last year kind of put the kibosh on our plans. One day soon!

May 23, 2021 at 4:02 pm

You did not mention 2 of the best places I have visited in St. Johns, Nfld. The 1st is the the Newfoundland Saltwater Fish Hatchery and the 2nd is the “Big R” was Rice’s {Best Fish and Chips in St. John’s}

May 24, 2021 at 10:14 am

Interesting. We’ve never been… and we’ve been to st Johns a good dozen times. Will check them out!

May 25, 2021 at 12:45 pm

I would recommend Yellow Belly Brewery as a place to eat. Their food is beyond tasty

May 25, 2021 at 2:45 pm

Some great ideas and recommendations…now let’s open up Canada so we can actually explore our own country!

May 25, 2021 at 5:06 pm

Can’t wait to go to Newfoundland been trying for years…

May 25, 2021 at 8:22 pm

Been to Gros Morne but I must check out the other side of the island!

May 26, 2021 at 6:05 am

Can’t wait to explore NFL and all the unique adventures to be had!

May 28, 2021 at 8:57 pm

would love to be here… Newfoundland on my bucket list !

June 9, 2021 at 1:59 pm

We visited Newfoundland in 2019 and we can confirm: It is one of the must-do-places in Canada. When the pandemic is over, we will definitely come again! Greetings from Germany to the Inn at Happy Adventure, Stephan

June 9, 2021 at 2:19 pm

I would love to visit NFLD, would enjoy a road trip and I would make sure I found some icebergs.

June 10, 2021 at 5:39 pm

NFLD is on our bucket list and this article is so helpful in our planning. Thank you for all this information!!

October 6, 2021 at 10:04 am

Thanks for all the info and suggestions, hoping to visit in the next few years. 🙂

March 12, 2022 at 9:29 am

I’m traveling to Newfoundland for the first time this summer. I’m so excited and appreciate your articles giving me ideas of things to do and see!

March 16, 2022 at 4:10 pm

Can’t wait to make it over to St. John’s! Thanks for the suggestions 🙂

July 2, 2022 at 4:25 pm

I wanted to let you know about a great new activity for travellers that just launched. St. John’s Walking Tours offers two tour options that are as entertaining as they are educational. Both tours are filled with quirky facts and unforgettable characters.

June 18, 2023 at 7:12 am

A friend and I will be travelling to NFLD in September. Do you have a printed tourist guide and maps of the province? We will probably fly into St Johns (my grandfather was the landscape architect for Bowring Park) and rent a vehicle but we will need maps and a list of B&Bs while there for 2 or 3 weeks My address is 4516 Kilkenny Rd, Elizabethtown Ontario, K6T1A1

June 19, 2023 at 11:03 am

Unfortunately we don’t have any physical products

June 23, 2023 at 5:40 am

my father was born in st john’s nl and he told me many stories. i love the taste of savory from mt scio farms is it still in business?

June 24, 2023 at 10:49 pm

No idea! But I bet her has lots of stories. Newfoundlaners always long for home

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Things to Do in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada - Newfoundland and Labrador Attractions

Things to do in newfoundland and labrador, explore popular experiences, popular cities in newfoundland and labrador.

Ways to tour Newfoundland and Labrador

2-Hour Guided Boat Tour from St. John's

Newfoundland Puffin and Whale Watch Cruise

4 Hour St John’s Tour w Come From Away star (lunch included)

2 Hour Boat Tour in Twillingate

Trinity Tow 'N' Go Kayak Tour

St. John's Downtown Walking Tour

2 Hours Guided Whale and Bird Boat Tour in Bay Bulls

Whale Watching, Shark and Cod Fishing, from St. John's Harbor

St. John's, Quidi Vidi Village & Signal Hill Small Group Tour

The best of St. John's walking tour

Top attractions in newfoundland and labrador.

Nature and Wildlife Tours

Whale Watching

Ports of call tours.

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Historical tours, what travelers are saying.

The top 10 attractions in Newfoundland and Labrador

Things to do

Newfoundland and Labrador is where centuries of history and quaint fishing villages live alongside modern design and outdoor adventure. These attractions hit all those stops.

Signal Hill National Historic Site of Canada

What if I told you that much of your daily life was influenced by what unfolded on a hill in St. John's, Newfoundland? The Signal Hill National Historic Site External Link Title is not your everyday landmark. British and French soldiers battled for control of this strategic site during the final battle of the Seven Years' War. Then, in 1901, Guglielmo Marconi received the first ever transatlantic wireless signal on Signal Hill, making communications history and kicking off the innovation that would ultimately led to the cell phone you might be reading this on. Today, this history is put on display for visitors. Listen to the firing of cannons and muskets as the Royal Newfoundland Regiment re-enacts centuries-old military drills -- what's known as the Signal Hill Tattoo. Take a self-guided tour to learn about the military history of the site and Marconi's achievements. Hike some of the three miles of surrounding trails and enjoy spectacular views of St. John's and the ocean -- and maybe even a few whales or icebergs as they pass by.

Cape Spear Lighthouse National Historic Site of Canada

Have you ever felt an entire country at your back? This is the unique opportunity provided by the Cape Spear Lighthouse External Link Title . The most eastern point of Canada, a rugged cliff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, is also adorned with the oldest surviving lighthouse in Newfoundland. Originally built in 1836, the Cape Spear lighthouse has been restored to its early appearance. Take a self-guided tour and see how the Cantwells, the family who manned the lighthouse for 150 years, lived in its attached residence. During World War II, a fort was built at Cape Spear to keep an eye out for German U-boats. Remains of the bunker still exist, but instead of watching for breaching submarines you can instead keep an eye out for breaching whales. Enjoy the edge of the world.

East Coast Trail

No matter your fitness level, skill level or preferred terrain, the East Coast Trail External Link Title has a path designed for you. Do you want to take an easy walking path along the water? You've got it. Want to trek between a series of lighthouses? You can. Would you rather get a good workout climbing up rocky terrain? Oh, there's a ton of that. From a 165-foot suspension bridge to geysers to archeological digs, the 340 miles of developed and undeveloped East Coast Trail provide you with plenty of opportunities to find the hike you're after, whatever it looks like. 

Gros Morne National Park

If Jurassic Park ever actually came to be, you'd be hard-pressed to find a more appropriate setting than Gros Morne National Park External Link Title . It took 485 million years for the forces of nature to shape this park into a jaw-dropping wonder. Images can hardly do justice to the beautiful river valleys full of green sitting between massive, striking cliff sides. These distinct mountains of flat rock are actually the exposed crust of the earth, and the site allowed geologists to prove their theory on tectonic plates. Gros Morne is really a hiker's dream, full of marked and unmarked trails to be explored and enjoyed. The forests, lowlands and bogs all house a variety of rare plants and animals, so keep your eyes peeled. Bring your camping gear; you're probably going to want to stay a while.

Fogo Island

Fogo Island External Link Title is the largest island of Newfoundland and Labrador's lengthy coast. While the province is often seen as a destination for outdoor adventurers and cultural explorers, Fogo Island has become this unique, stand-out destination for lovers of art and architecture. Central to that shift is the Fogo Island Inn, a truly beautiful luxury hotel set along the oceanside. The hotel features a rooftop spa, a library and decor based on local traditions, but in a building and setting you simply can't find anywhere else. While on Fogo Island, you're going to want to explore local art, check out the architecture of modern design studies (which have been featured in the New York Times and the Guardian), and immerse yourself in some local music and storytelling.

When you picture small coastal fishing towns, the image in your head probably isn't too far off from Bonavista External Link Title . The town is etched in history as the historic site of Cabot's landing, where Italian explorer Giovanni Caboto first discovered North America in 1497. Today, Bonavista is a quaint town of colorful homes along rocky shores and pebbled beaches. There are number of heritage attractions in the area, from old buildings and museums to classic coastal lighthouses, but the oldest thing you'll see on your visit are the icebergs as they float on by. Keep an eye out for whales, and, of course, go visit the full-size replica of Cabot's ship.

L'Anse aux Meadows National Historic Site

While we're on the topic of history and discovery, it's at L'Anse aux Meadows National Historic Site External Link Title that you'll find the very first evidence of a European presence in North America. Long before Cabot, Newfoundland and Labrador was visited by Vikings, and at L'Anse aux Meadows you can see the remains of one of their settlements. Dating back to the 11th century, the excavated wood-framed and peat-turf buildings are similar to those found in Greenland and Iceland during that period. Immerse yourself in this history with the help of costumed interpreters, see the 1,000-year-old original artifacts, and live like a Viking for a day in a truly appropriate setting, surrounded by cliffs, coastline and bogs.

Twillingate

Seafood and scenery are words you'll find come up a lot when talking about Twillingate External Link Title . This small, colorful fishing town, located on islands of the same name, is one of those places where fish comes fresh from the water and right onto your plate. It's also the iceberg capital of the world, and a great outdoor adventure destination, with whale-watching, beaches and kayaking to pass the time. Hiking in particular draws in many visitors, as you can walk rocky coastline trails, picking wild berries on your way to a scenic lighthouse. And if you can time your trip to the last week of July, stop by the Fish, Fun and Folk Festival for music, bonfires, fireworks and more.

Red Bay National Historic Site

It has only been a few years since UNESCO named the Red Bay National Historic Site External Link Title a World Heritage Site, but that title was earned over the last five centuries. In the 1500s, thousands of Basque whalers would hunt the marine beasts for blubber in the waters of Red Bay. The whaling town remains where they first set it up, and you can still explore remnants of their ovens and other equipment. Visit the interpretation center to see a 26-foot "chalupa," a boat used in the whale hunt, and then compare it to the far larger whale skeletons on site. Then head out on your own to hike the beach or kayak the waters, and keep an eye out for any big shadows moving underneath.

Battle Harbour

"The salt fish capital of Labrador" might not seem like a particularly meaningful tagline, but for Battle Harbour External Link Title this moniker made it the social and economic hub in the region. Here, two centuries of history have been preserved or restored, from fishery buildings to churches to homes, many of which are yours to stay in. You can sleep in a former merchant or policeman's home before heading out on the town to explore their workplaces and other historic structures. Then grab a fresh meal and enjoy the same entertainment that they've enjoyed in Battle Harbour for the last 100 years. You might come for the orcas, icebergs and hiking, but it's the atmosphere that will keep you around.

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Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation

Traveller’s guide & traveller’s map.

Each year, Newfoundland and Labrador Tourism produces a printed Traveller’s Guide. This is a valuable supplement to our consumer website NewfoundlandLabrador.com , providing visitors with suggested things to do, best kept secrets, sample road trips and itineraries, and other essential trip planning tools and information. We also produce an annual Traveller’s Map, an important navigational tool to assist tourists with their travels while on the ground here in the province.

As of 2025, the Traveller’s Guide no longer includes tourism operator promotional listings. Instead,  QR codes are used throughout the book with links to up-to-date, searchable online listings of accommodations, campgrounds, attractions, adventures, tours, craft shops and galleries, festivals and events, food and beverage, and other resources on NewfoundlandLabrador.com .

Traveller’s Guides and Maps are distributed free of charge to consumers nationally and internationally. They are also available on the Marine Atlantic ferries and the North Sydney terminal, and at airports, visitor information centres and tourism businesses within Newfoundland and Labrador.

If you run a tourism business and would like to receive a bulk order of Traveller’s Guides and Traveller’s Maps to distribute to tourists, email your request to [email protected] .

Tourism and related businesses can also place paid advertisements in the Guide. For information about this program, please email Andrew Weir ( [email protected] ).

Southern Alberta gearing up for the summer tourist season

Hotels and attractions are preparing for an influx of visitors over the next few months.

Tourism Lethbridge believes the industry will continue its bounce back from COVID-19 this summer.

"We're always looking for growth. And we know that every year is going to be a little bit better than the last. ... Great opportunities for people to come down to Lethbridge and our region to see what we have to offer," said Dominika Wojcik, senior director of communications for Tourism Lethbridge.

Plenty of sites outside of Lethbridge are getting ready as well.

Waterton National Park typically sees about 500,000 people visit each year.

About half of all visitors will go in July and August.

"We've gone through tough times but it feels like everything is finally behind us," said Shameer Suleman, president of the Waterton Park Chamber of Commerce.

"Everything is open. The park is in amazing shape right now. The visitors' centre looks great. The business community is ready with open arms."

While most will want to travel this summer, it might be more difficult to hit the road.

Inflation has left would-be travellers with less disposable income.

But there are ways to save during summer travels.

"A lot of airlines actually continue to offer acceptable fares for people who are looking to book in advance. ... There's a lot of credit cards that offer different kinds of points. Particularly if you're looking at travel points, now is the time for you to use them,” said Omar Kaywan, co-founder of Goose Insurance.

Still, the rising cost of living could see more people opt for a staycation this summer.

Tourism Lethbridge hopes more locals will take advantage of the attractions and events closer to home.

"We have a lot of things to offer here," Wojcik said.

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The 50 best tourist attractions in the u.s..

See which American landmarks are worthy of your bucket list.

(Getty Images) |

From national parks to iconic symbols of freedom and democracy, these popular and highly regarded U.S. tourist attractions cannot be missed.

U.S. Space & Rocket Center: Huntsville, Alabama

Denali National Park and Preserve: Alaska

Grand Canyon National Park: Arizona

Hot Springs National Park: Arkansas

Golden Gate Bridge: San Francisco, California

Pikes Peak: Cascade, Colorado

(Courtesy of Mystic Aquarium) |

Mystic Aquarium: Mystic, Connecticut

DiscoverSea Shipwreck Museum: Fenwick Island, Delaware

(Courtesy of Walt Disney World Resort) |

Walt Disney World Resort: Orlando, Florida

(Courtesy of Coca Cola) |

World of Coca-Cola: Atlanta, Georgia

Road to Hana: Hana, Maui, Hawaii

(Courtesy of Idaho Tourism) |

Kirkham Hot Springs: Lowman, Idaho

Chicago River: Chicago, Illinois

Indianapolis Motor Speedway: Indianapolis, Indiana

The Field of Dreams: Dyersville, Iowa

(Courtesy of Oz Museum) |

Oz Museum: Wamego, Kansas

Kentucky Horse Park: Lexington, Kentucky

French Quarter: New Orleans, Louisiana

Acadia National Park: Bar Harbor, Maine

National Aquarium: Baltimore, Maryland

Freedom Trail: Boston, Massachusetts

Mackinac Island: Michigan

(Courtesy of Mall of America) |

Mall of America: Bloomington, Minnesota

(Courtesy of Elvis Presley Birthplace) |

Elvis Presley Birthplace and Museum: Tupelo, Mississippi

Gateway Arch: St. Louis, Missouri

Glacier National Park: West Glacier, Montana

Chimney Rock National Historic Site: Bayard, Nebraska

Las Vegas Strip: Las Vegas, Nevada

Mount Washington Cog Railway: Mount Washington, New Hampshire

Cape May: New Jersey

White Sands National Park: Holloman Air Force Base, New Mexico

Statue of Liberty: New York City, New York

Wright Brothers National Memorial: Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina

Theodore Roosevelt National Park: North Dakota

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame: Cleveland, Ohio

(Courtesy of First Americans Museum) |

First Americans Museum: Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Mount Hood: Oregon

Liberty Bell: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

The Breakers: Newport, Rhode Island

Fort Sumter National Monument: Charleston, South Carolina

Mount Rushmore National Memorial: Keystone, South Dakota

(Courtesy of Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum) |

Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum: Nashville, Tennessee

The Alamo: San Antonio, Texas

Zion National Park: Utah

(Courtesy of Smugglers' Notch Resort) |

Smugglers' Notch Resort: Jeffersonville, Vermont

Colonial Williamsburg: Williamsburg, Virginia

Space Needle: Seattle, Washington

White House and the National Mall: Washington, D.C.

Harpers Ferry, West Virginia

Lambeau Field: Green Bay, Wisconsin

Yellowstone National Park: Wyoming

You might also be interested in:

• The Best National Parks in the U.S.
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• The Most Famous Landmarks in the World

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THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Gander

Things to do in gander.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Kids
• Good for Couples
• Adventurous
• Hidden Gems
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. North Atlantic Aviation Museum

2. Cobb's Pond Rotary Park

3. Silent Witnesses Memorial

4. Thomas Howe Demonstration Forest

5. Gander Heritage Memorial Park

6. Beyond The Overpass Theatre Company Inc.

7. Airport Nordic Ski Club

8. Czechoslovakian Airline Plane Crash Memorial

9. Commonwealth War Grave Cemetery

10. Gander Golf Club

11. Xheight Zone

12. Arts and Culture Centre - Gander

13. Gander International Lounge

14. The Globe Theatre

16. Gander Goods Shop

17. revibe centre.

18. Beyond Words Tours

19. Gander River Outfitters Inc

20. Whale Watching and Coastal Tour with Seafood Lunch

21. White Cliff Lodge

22. The Axe Shed

What travellers are saying.