The Best Things to do in St. John’s & Surrounding Areas

These are some of the Best Things to do in St. John’s & Surrounding Areas. The Avalon Peninsula of Newfoundland and Labrador is filled with beauty and exciting things to do. Located on the Southeastern portion of the island, which is home to the capital city (St. John’s), you could fill your days on the Avalon alone if so inclined.

As with all of the island of Newfoundland, expect the unexpected when it comes to the weather. They say you can experience all four seasons in a day in Newfoundland, and they aren’t wrong! (You have to see it to believe it, lol) so a helpful tip is always to try your best to be ready for any weather you can.
Filled with culture, unmatched scenery, friendly locals and fantastic adventures, here are the best things to check out on the Avalon Peninsula (St. John’s & Area) for your visit:

George Street

This Street is famous worldwide for having the most pubs and bars per square foot in North America! George Street has over two dozen bars, pubs and restaurants in 2 blocks. Newfoundland is steeped in Irish culture, and many of the bars and pubs are Irish pubs and play Irish Newfoundland music while serving you the most delicious pub food. 

George Street even has its festival in which, for one week, they block off the roads and have tremendous performers on stage while attendees fill the streets. Every night is themed with a different variety and genre of music, and it’s a must-see if you are lucky enough to plan your trip during the festival. You will not be disappointed with George Street!

Fine Dining

There are many places on the island for exquisite fine dining experiences, but Downtown St. John’s Newfoundland has the most concentrated number of fine dining restaurants in one area. 

There is a restaurant for every taste. You can visit Raymond’s, EVOO, Saltwater, Oliver’s, Basho Restaurant & Lounge, Mallard Cottage, Exile Restaurant and Lounge, The Adelaide Oyster House, Vu Resto Bar, & The Fish Exchange- to name a few! All will be guaranteed to leave you satisfied.

Read more Things to do in St John’s and the Avalon Region.

Signal Hill 

Signal Hill is a National Historic site. Loved by locals and tourists alike, it has breathtaking views and incredible hiking and walking trails. Signal Hill has deep historical roots in the harbour defences of St. John’s, including the period of WWII. The very first transatlantic signal was received at Signal Hill. Signal Hill is very likely the most famous landmark on the island. Please don’t skip the opportunity to take in the Cabot Tower at the top of the hill and rediscover some of its history.

Puffin & Whale Watching

Newfoundland has an astonishing population of Puffins on the island. There is an estimated 600,000 + population of puffins on the island. Adorable and petite, these little birds are well-loved and a treat to see in person. 

Puffin & Whale Watching

Puffins arrive in early May and can be viewed in large numbers through mid-September. Whale sightings typically peak in mid-June through to mid-August. However, it is still possible to see them outside the peak season, but it’s more sporadic. Finally, don’t forget you may see majestic icebergs on their journey down the Atlantic. Iceberg season around the St. John’s area typically runs from May through mid/late June.

Book your ocean tours at any place like Gatheralls, O’Briens Whale Watching Tours, located in and just outside St. John’s and get a firsthand experience of a whale or puffin almost within reach!

Cape Spear National Historic Site

Cape Spear Lighthouse is the most Easterly point in North America. It is the oldest surviving lighthouse on the island, built-in 1836. Look out at the ocean, take in the beautiful scenery and often see the whales visiting next to the shore! It’s a perfect spot for iceberg-watching as well. Cape spear is also an entry point to the breathtaking East Coast Trail. This is an absolute must-see!

Local Communities

Newfoundland is like no other when it comes to its quaint little towns and communities. Some Communities are like taking a step back in time simplistic beauty. No matter where you go, you are almost guaranteed to come across a fishing boat, crab, or lobster pots stacked in a pile. Drive along the coastline and then head inland. Something to do and something to see everywhere you go.