Behind the Scenes
Shot from Signal Hill at sunrise, the fog was rolling over the ocean, Jelly Bean Row glowing below. A morning that defines Newfoundland’s beauty during your 24 hours in St. John’s.
Morning — Signal Hill & Quidi Vidi Village
📍 Signal Hill National Historic Site → Quidi Vidi Village
Start early at Signal Hill for panoramic views of the harbour and the Atlantic. This is the golden-hour spot for photographers — the first light hitting the colourful rooftops of downtown.
Walk (or drive) down to Quidi Vidi Village, a postcard fishing cove where time slows. Grab a coffee at Quidi Vidi Brewery, and try the famous Iceberg Beer made from 20,000-year-old ice.
Midday — Downtown & The Rooms
📍 Blue on Water, 319, Water Street
Head downtown for a wander along Water Street and Duckworth Street — lined with boutiques and heritage facades.
Stop at The Rooms, Newfoundland’s cultural centre and museum, offering panoramic views of the harbour from its café terrace.
Lunch Idea:
Try Mallard Cottage in Quidi Vidi or Blue on Water (In the image) downtown for elevated local fare — seafood chowder and fresh cod are musts.
Afternoon — From St. John’s to Cape Spear Adventure
📍 Cape Spear National Historic Site
Drive 20 minutes to Cape Spear, North America’s easternmost point. Explore the lighthouse, breathe in the ocean air, and keep an eye out for whales.
Photo Tip: Capture the whales that may feed, jump and show their tails. Sit in a secure zone and enjoy your moment with the whales.
Evening — Harbourfront & George Street
📍 Downtown St. John’s
Return to the city for a relaxed dinner at The Merchant Tavern or Blue On Water. Then wander to George Street, the heart of St. John’s nightlife, where every pub echoes with live Newfoundland music.
Overnight Stay with built-in Restaurants
Alt Hotel and Terre restaurant (modern, downtown) or Blue on Water Inn and Restaurant (spacious boutique charm).
Why I Love This Layover
In just one day, you can feel St. John’s heartbeat — colourful, creative, and kind. It’s where the Atlantic mist meets warm smiles and history meets fresh air. Every corner feels like a story waiting to be told through a photograph.
Read more on St. John’s Layovers
Frequently Asked Questions about St. John’s
A: Mostly, yes. Signal Hill, downtown, and Quidi Vidi are walkable or a short cab ride away. You’ll need a car (or tour) only for Cape Spear.
A: Late spring through early fall (May–September) offers the best weather, long daylight hours, and the chance to spot whales and puffins.
A: Yes, though some restaurants and tours may have reduced winter hours.
Porter Airlines has daily flights, while other airlines service different airports via the ferry, arriving at one of the many ferry terminals.
About the Author
Written & photographed by Roland Bast, TMAC travel photographer and storyteller. Roland specializes in authentic Canadian and international experiences — capturing people, landscapes, and local culture across the country.
Keep exploring: Find new inspirations from the links below
St. John’s Layover, Wild Cliffs & Culinary Flavours
36 Hours in Halifax · Halifax Waterfront: The New Wave · 4-Day Guide in Moncton · Kelowna Lakeside Luxury & Local Flavours · Weekend in Montreal
St. John’s Quidi Vidi, From the Gram
