St. John’s is a treasure, pure and simple. Where else can you find old world charm with a modern cultural flair, surrounded by a stunning coastline and one of the most fascinating harbors in the world? Plus, it’s small enough that you can see many sites afoot. As an Acupuncturist-at-Sea, I stopped here many times. It’s one of my favorite ports in the world, and I love sharing my St Johns Newfoundland highlights walking tour. So, read to learn about the best path to explore here with your own 2 feet to Old St. John’s, Signal Hill and North Head Trail.

St. John’s Background

As the capital of Newfoundland and Labrador, it’s one of the oldest and most easterly towns in North America. For centuries, St. John’s was the center of the Newfoundland salt cod trade. The blend of English, Irish cultures with Victorian architecture bring a unique atmosphere. It has steep hills and colorful row houses, mostly built after the Great Fire in 1892.

Perhaps, the headlands and entrance to the harbor through the “The Narrows” is the most fascinating thing about St. John’s. This is the passage from the Atlantic Ocean to the harbor, going through steep rock walls on both sides. It’s an iconic water route, referred to as “threading the eye of the needle.” The Narrows also served as an important part of defense for St. John’s. The south side’s Fort Amherst Lighthouse guided vessels into the harbor. The northern side is Signal Hill, with a battery and Cabot Tower, where the first trans-Atlantic wireless signal happened in 1901. Arriving by St. John’s by boat or ship is the best way to discover it!

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St Johns Newfoundland Highlights Walking Tour

This walking tour was one of the best days of my life. Everything just worked like magic. Overall, the walking tour took about 3 hours. I would give this itinerary at least this amount of time, allowing to take in all the scenery. One could easily spend a whole day doing this walking tour and stop at many sites. There is abundant natural beauty and historic landmarks along the way. Also, bringing a picnic lunch and plenty of water is a good idea.

Start by heading east on Duckworth Street through Old St. John’s. This goes parallel to the shoreline of the harbor heading for Signal Hill. I enjoyed the Jellybean Row Houses and business along this street. There are many restaurants and cafes before heading up the hill. I walked to the landmark sign with arrows pointing left to Signal Hill route and right to Battery. Continuing on Duckworth Street up Signal Hill, I stopped at the Johnson Geo Centre, a Science Museum. Outside, I observed the rock identification display bringing the geology of the area to life.

**St. John’s Harbour from Queen’s Battery**

Then, I continued up the hill to the Queen’s Battery. There are a line of canons pointing over The Narrows. The omnipresent views begin, nonstop. Looking back at the views of St. John’s is breathtaking with the stunning Narrows below. I continued to Cabot Tower. Don’t miss out on going inside to the rooftop view from the tower. It’s free, plus there are exhibits explaining the history about the first transatlantic wireless signal from Cabot Tower in 1901.

From Cabot Tower, I walked past the parking lot and took the North Head Trail east down the path and stairs.

This trail takes you around the North Headlands and intimately along The Narrows. Walking along this trail is one of my favorite hikes in the world. And don’t miss out on the scenic views from a vibrant, red Adirondack chair. Walking above The Narrows, there’s a short section of the trail (about 12 feet distance), that is nail-bitingly narrow with steep drop-offs. However, it has a chain to cling onto, while you hug the rock wall as you make your way along the trail. I have a fear of heights but made it ok without looking down.

20220824_130741_2 — **What a view from red Adirondack chairs!**

20220824_133509_2 — **Wow, “The Narrow’s” & North Head Trail behind me!**

**Narrowest part of North Head Trail with Chain Hand Rail**

After finishing the North Head Trail, I walked through the Battery with vibrant colored buildings along the harbour and rock walls. Then, I continued up a steep hill along the incredible Battery History Mural depicting the life in the fishing communities of Newfoundland. At the top of the hill, I went on Battery Road, taking me back to the original crossroads, where the arrows point to Signal Hill or Battery.

Water Street for Food & Shopping

Iceberg Beer made from melted Newfoundland icebergs!

After my walking tour, I went to Water Street for some food. It can be difficult to find a place that’s not overcrowded during the summer months. I recommend the 2 places that I tried in St. John’s. I loved my vinegar and salt cod and chips with wheat ale at YellowBelly Brewery. Another day while in St. John’s I loved my experience at Saltwater Restaurant. The salmon was super fresh and delicious.

Plus, I discovered the Iceberg Beer. Brewed locally, this super refreshing beer is made from the melted water of icebergs that float down from Greenland to Newfoundland every spring.

Screech-In Ceremony at a George Street Pub!

A fun Newfoundland tradition is the Screech In ritual for “from aways” or tourists. Meant to be pure fun, you can experience a Screech-In ceremony in pubs, on boats and even people’s homes. It involves reciting a local saying, kissing a codfish and taking a shot of Screech rum! Once you do this, you are an honorary Newfoundlander! I experienced mine in St. John’s at Trapper John’s Museum and Pub on George Street. It was my second choice. My preference was to do it at Christian’s Pub down the street, because this is where Anthony Bourdain got screeched. However, the 7 pm waiting list was full. So, I decided on Trapper John’s because they do it every hour with less crowds.