Car Hire St John’s - Mini guide to St John’s
Historic St John’s is the easternmost city on the North American continent and the capital of Newfoundland and Labrador. It's also one of the oldest cities in North America, and has plenty of historical charm. Among its diverse attractions is an incredible rugged coastline that seems to stretch forever. Additionally, a unique Celtic culture and unsurpassed Atlantic hospitality make St John’s one of the most memorable places on any visit to Canada.
The two cathedrals, one Roman Catholic and one Anglican, both named for St John the Baptist, are must-see destinations. The Roman Basilica boasts double towers almost 43m tall, making it the most conspicuous feature of the city's skyline. At the time of its consecration in 1855, it was the largest church in North America. The Anglican cathedral is a superb example of Gothic Revival architecture.
The 1,214-hectare CA Pippy Park at the northern end of town sports hiking trails, picnic sites, a golf course and wild animal sightings (including moose). Additionally, you can visit the fascinating fluvarium, which is a building with windows into a living river, the Nagle's Hill Brook, giving you the direct view of the fishes’ habitat and lifestyle. This is the only year round public fluvarium in North America, and it’s well worth taking one of the guided tours given by environmental interpreters.
Boat tours of the harbour depart from different places along the waterfront, and are certainly worthwhile, not just to see the town from the sea, but to check out the whales that come to the local waters from June to August. Another fascinating sight is the Arctic icebergs, swept along the Labrador current to the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve about 32kms from St John's. Some icebergs ground themselves and can be observed for weeks.
The nightlife in St John’s is legendary. The waterfront remains the social centre, home of lively bars that feature the pick of Newfoundland folk music - the best single reason for visiting. Additionally, visitors can enjoy a wide selection of tasty beers that are served all through the day and night.
