Welcome to St. John’s, Newfoundland, the heartbeat of the Rock and my beloved hometown. Nowhere else will you find such a perfect blend of history, color, music, and charm. It’s a place where every corner has a story, and every person you meet feels like an old friend. With its jellybean-colored houses, haunting ghost tales, legendary pubs, and the friendliest people you’ll ever meet, St. John’s is the kind of place that grabs you by the heartstrings and never lets go.
This week, I decided to give you a full-on Donny Love tour of St. John’s, packed with hiking, ghosts, e-bikes, buskers, a boat ride, and even a stint on stage with Newfoundland’s own Irish Descendants. Hang tight, b’ys—this one’s going to be wicked.
The day began where it always should: with a killer view and the sound of the ocean in your ears. I spent the night camping at the Outer Battery, a rugged and beautiful neighborhood nestled right into the cliffs at the mouth of St. John’s Harbour. Let me tell you, there’s no better way to wake up than with the sun peeking over the Narrows and the smell of salt air filling your lungs.
Camping here feels like you’ve struck gold. The waves crash against the rocks, the seagulls circle lazily overhead, and the fishermen start their day early, heading out in their boats like it’s been done for centuries. It’s peaceful yet alive with history, like every stone has a story to tell.
As I brewed up a steaming cup of tea—because there’s nothing like a cuppa tea overlooking the Atlantic—I took a moment to soak it all in. Around here, the world seems to slow down, and you can truly appreciate the beauty of Newfoundland.
Ah, Signal Hill. No trip to St. John’s is complete without a trek up this iconic landmark. This isn’t just any hill—it’s the place where Marconi received the first transatlantic wireless signal in 1901. Yeah, we’re talking big history here, folks; Cabot Tower is the birthplace of modern telecommunications.
The climb started with the North Head Trail, which hugs the cliffs in a way that feels both thrilling and humbling. It’s the kind of trail that makes you feel alive, with views so spectacular they almost knock you off your feet. On one side, you’ve got the mighty North Atlantic stretching out to forever, and on the other, the city, with its rainbow of jellybean houses cascading down the hills.
Every turn of the trail reveals something new—a hidden cove, a seabird soaring overhead, or just the sound of waves crashing against the rocks far below. And the people! Every local I passed greeted me with a hearty “Whaddya at Donny?” and every tourist had that “Is this real life?” look on their faces.
Reaching the top you catch a glimpse of Cabot Tower standing tall, a proud reminder of Newfoundland’s storied past. From up here, you can see the Narrows, the harbor, the rugged coastline that defines the province. It’s the kind of view that makes you feel small in the most beautiful way possible.
After that climb, I had one thing on my mind: food. And not just any food—a proper Newfoundland breakfast. So, I headed down to Water Street, the oldest street in North America. This is where St. John’s truly comes alive in the morning.
Picture this: cozy cafes with the smell of freshly brewed coffee and sizzling pans filling the air, and the cheerful hum of locals catching up on the latest news. I found my way to a little spot I love, tucked into a corner of the street, and ordered a classic: eggs, fried bologna (Newfie steak, as we call it), and toutons drizzled with molasses.
The food wasn’t just good—it was legendary. But the real charm of breakfast on Water Street isn’t just the meal—it’s the people. The table next to me was full of fishermen debating the best spots to jig for cod. Across the room, a group of tourists chatted excitedly about the jellybean houses they’d seen on their morning walk. And the waitress? She called everyone “my love’” like we were all her youngsters.
Every meal here comes with a side of good conversation and a sense of belonging. It’s the kind of place where, even if you walk in alone, you’ll leave feeling like part of the family.
After breakfast, I grabbed an E-bike and wandered the streets lined with jellybean houses: Gower Street, Bond Street, Duckworth Street, Victoria Street and Prescott Street. And let me tell ya, they are just as charming as you’ve heard. These brightly painted row houses are the unofficial mascots of St. John’s, and they never fail to make me smile.
Legend has it that the houses were painted in vivid colors so sailors could spot them from the sea. True or not, it’s a tradition that’s become a defining feature of the city. Each house seems to have its own personality—the cheerful yellow one with a porch swing, the deep red one with flower pots bursting with life, or the soft green one with lace curtains in the windows.
Everywhere I went, tourists were snapping photos, capturing the charm of these vibrant homes. I stopped to chat with a couple who’d come all the way from Germany, marveling at how the colors seemed to brighten even the greyest Newfoundland day.
No tour of St. John’s would be complete without a visit to George Street, the party capital of Newfoundland. This place is legendary, and not just because it boasts more pubs and bars per square foot than anywhere else in North America.
By day, George Street has a quiet charm. The buildings, steeped in history, stand as a reminder of all the nights this street has seen. But by night? Oh, now that’s when it transforms. The music spills out of every doorway, mingling with the laughter of people from all walks of life. Whether you’re in the mood for a lively Irish jig, a classic rock anthem, or just a good yarn over a pint, George Street delivers.
I stopped into a couple of my old haunts like the Martini Bar, O’reilly’s and Christians to say hello to friends and enjoy the vibe. It’s the kind of place where everyone knows your name—or at least acts like they do. Around here, strangers become friends faster than you can say “Screech-In.”
Next, I hopped back on my e-bike and made my way to the Pedestrian Mall on Water Street. This place is pure magic, a haven for musicians, artists, food lovers and anyone who loves a good time.
As I wandered through the closed street, the sound of live music filled the air. One busker was strumming a Newfoundland folk tune, and I couldn’t resist jumping in. Before long, a crowd had gathered, clapping, singing, and stomping their feet. That’s the thing about St. John’s—it’s not just a place you visit; it’s a place you experience.
The Pedestrian Mall is more than just Water Street—it’s a celebration of everything that makes St. John’s special: the culture, the creativity, and the people who make you feel at home.
Now, let’s dive into the spooky stuff—because no city as old as St. John’s could escape having its fair share of ghostly legends. With over 500 years of history, every cobblestone street and creaky old building seems to have its own eerie tale to tell. From spirits of shipwrecked sailors to phantom nuns, St. John’s is a place where the past never truly rests. If you’re a fan of things that go bump in the night, buckle up, b’ys, because this part of the tour is not for the faint-hearted.
Our first stop on this ghostly tour takes us to the Basilica of St. John the Baptist, one of the most beautiful landmarks in the city—and one of the most haunted. Legend has it that late at night, when the church is shrouded in silence, the ghost of a nun appears, kneeling in prayer.
Those who’ve seen her describe a translucent figure surrounded by a faint blue glow, her hands clasped tightly as though she’s asking for forgiveness. They say she haunts the Basilica because of a forbidden love she carried in life—a love that ultimately led to her untimely demise. Whether she’s seeking absolution or simply watching over the city, her presence sends shivers down the spines of anyone brave enough to visit after dark.
This Story always got me as a kid and I was terrified of the Basilica after dark.
Next, we head downtown to the old courthouse, a stately building with a dark past. In the 1800s, the grassy area outside the courthouse was home to the gallows, where hundreds of criminals—and perhaps a few innocent souls—met their end.
It’s said that the spirits of those hanged here still roam the area. Locals have reported hearing footsteps echoing in empty hallways, the rattling of chains, and faint cries in the night. Some even claim to have seen shadowy figures lurking near the courthouse windows, their faces pale and full of sorrow.
One story that sticks with me is about a young man wrongly accused of theft. He was hanged at the gallows, but on the day of his execution, the real thief came forward. Ever since, his spirit has been seen wandering the streets, clutching a piece of rope and whispering, “Not guilty.”
Now, let’s talk about one of my absolute favorite ghost stories—the legendary phantom ship of St. John’s Harbor. Picture this: it’s a foggy night, the kind where you can barely see your hand in front of your face. Suddenly, a ship appears, its masts silhouetted against the mist. But this isn’t any ordinary vessel. No, b’ys—this one is straight out of your nightmares – a pirate ship of ghosts.
The ship is said to be captained by a skeleton with dreadlocks and a hook for a hand. They are a band of ghostly pirates, their eyes glowing like embers, forever doomed to roam the seas. The ship is cloaked in an eerie green foggy glow, and its sails seem to move without wind.
Legend has it that if you see the ship, you should turn tail and run—or better yet, get yourself to the nearest pub and stay put. The captain is always on the hunt for new crew members, and if he sets his sights on you, well… let’s just say you might not make it home for tea.
Now, I’ve got an uncle, uncle Derm, who swears he ended up on that ship one foggy night. According to him, he was out jigging for cod when the ship appeared. Next thing he knew, he was surrounded by the undead crew. They handed him a mop and told him to get to work swabbing the deck. Of course in Uncle Derm’s version he managed to escape—most don’t.
No adventure in St. John’s is complete without taking to the water, and trust me, b’ys, the boat ride to Quidi Vidi—affectionately known as “The Gut”—is a journey that’ll stick with you forever. The harbor was alive that day, the buzz of fishing boats mingling with the salty air, as if the whole place was whispering, “Adventure awaits.”
My buddy Larry picked me up at the harbour front. Hopping aboard his trusty craft, I was super excited to get this unique view of St. John’s. I grabbed the rail and we started to navigate through The Narrows, the dramatic gateway between the shelter of the harbor and the wild Atlantic beyond. The cliffs on either side rose like rugged sentinels, their jagged edges carved by centuries of ocean spray. Every time the boat hit a wave, I felt the thrill in my bones—it’s the kind of ride that makes you feel alive.
As we passed Fort Amherst, its old stone remnants stood proudly on the hillside, like a chapter ripped from a pirate’s tale. I could almost hear the echoes of cannons firing, the clanging of swords, and the shouts of soldiers as they defended St. John’s from French invaders back in the 1700s. History doesn’t just live here—it breathes through the rocks, the waves, and the mist that rolls in from the sea.
Then, as if the world decided to swap its rugged drama for postcard perfection, we rounded the corner and there it was: Quidi Vidi, a fishing village so picturesque you’d think it was painted by an artist who couldn’t decide which color to use—so they chose them all.
Quidi Vidi is pure magic. The colorful fishing stages seemed to float on the water, their weathered wood telling stories of generations who salted and dried cod here, feeding families and building traditions that still run deep. The docks creaked beneath our feet as we tied up, the smell of fresh seaweed and fish mixing with the crisp ocean air.
The vibe here is something else—it’s peaceful, yes, but not the kind of peace that lulls you to sleep. No, it’s the kind that makes you want to stop time and drink it all in. Every corner of this village feels like a step back to simpler days, where life revolved around the tides and a hard day’s work ended with laughter and a pint at the local pub.
I wandered along the narrow pathways, soaking in the charm. The fishing boats bobbed gently in the water, their peeling paint only adding to their character. The locals, ever friendly, waved as if we’d known each other forever. And the best part? The unmistakable sound of someone playing a fiddle drifted out of a nearby stage, as if the music itself was woven into the salty air.
I could’ve stayed here forever, but the adventure wasn’t over yet. As the boat pulled away, I glanced back at Quidi Vidi, its vibrant colors standing out against the rocky cliffs, and I thought to myself, This isn’t just a village—it’s a feeling. And it’s one I’ll carry with me wherever I go.
The grand finale of the day was the Churchill Park Music Festival, a huge two weekend concert that my buddy Pete puts on in August and fills the city with excitment. This night was huge! The Newfoundland night and I had the chance to join the Irish Descendants on stage for a song. Now, if you’ve never heard a Newfoundland crowd singing along to an seafaring ballad, you’re missing out on one of life’s great experiences.
As I stepped onto the stage, the crowd erupted into cheers, and I felt that familiar rush of Newfoundland adrenaline. We sang a few classics, and the energy was electric. It was the perfect way to end a magical day in St. John’s; a day filled with adventure, music, and the kind of fun that St. John’s holds for the adventurous of heart.
And that, my friends, is just a taste of a day in St. John’s, Newfoundland—a city that’s as vibrant and unforgettable as the people who call it home. This place isn’t just a destination—it’s an experience. It’s a kaleidoscope of brightly colored jellybean houses that pop against the rugged cliffs. It’s hiking trails like Signal Hill, where every step rewards you with views that make your heart soar. It’s the cobblestone streets, alive with buskers, bustling cafes, pubs, shops, and the kind of warmth you find on the Rock.
Whether you’re swapping ghost stories in the glow of the Basilica, sailing through The Narrows to the postcard-perfect fishing village of Quidi Vidi, or belting out a tune with buskers and Newfoundland’s finest musicians, every moment here feels like a chapter in a story you’ll want to read again and again. And hey, you might just bump into me, Donny Love, heading out on an adventure in my hometown. If you see me please say hi; I’d love to meet ya and hear about your own Newfoundland adventure. I can promise you this: once you visit St. John’s, you’ll never forget it. It’s a place that grabs you by the heart, fills your soul, and leaves you counting the days until you can come back.
So pack your bags, lace up your boots, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime. St. John’s is waiting for you—with open arms, a fresh cup of tea, and a story or two you’ll carry with you forever.
When you grow up in St. John’s, it’s not just your hometown—it’s your heart. The steep streets lined with jellybean houses, the salty tang of the ocean on your skin, the hum of life down by the harbor—it’s all part of who you are. As much as I’ve roamed across Newfoundland for Adventures Unknown, no place compares to this city where I first dreamed of adventure.
St. John’s is a place that never gets old, even when it’s as familiar as your own reflection. Every corner has a story, every street is alive with history, and every pub, café, and park has a memory waiting to be made.
So whaddya at me buddy? Let’s spend the day together in St. John’s, where adventure is as local as a hearty plate of Jiggs’ dinner and the spirit of Newfoundland is alive and thriving.
When you wake up in St. John’s, there’s only one way to start your day—breakfast on Water Street. They say it’s the oldest street in North America, but to me, it’s a living, breathing part of my city. There are many fine restaurants to grab a bite of breakfast on Water Street, but today I’m feeling like Rocket Bakery, where the smell of freshly baked bread and scones pulls you in like a warm hug. I grabbed a partridgeberry scone and a strong flat white—the perfect fuel for wandering the vibrant streets.
Sitting by the window, I watched the city come alive. Water Street’s mix of historic charm and modern energy is something special. It’s a place where people still stop to talk to each other on the street—something I’ve always loved about this city.
Water Street always has a buzz about it, with its mix of historic charm and modern flair. But to really capture the soul of St. John’s, you have to take a detour up those steep streets, where the jellybean houses stand proudly against the often-grey moody skies. So off I went, wandering those steep streets lined with jellybean houses. Growing up here, I never thought much about the colors. It was just how houses were painted. Now, seeing visitors light up when they spot them, I get it. These bright, bold homes are a symbol of Newfoundland’s resilience and creativity—a colorful answer to whatever weather comes our way.
You can’t visit St. John’s without climbing to the top of Signal Hill. Every time I stand there, overlooking the Narrows and the Atlantic stretching endlessly beyond, I’m reminded of just how small we are and how vast the world is. The Cabot Tower marks the spot where Marconi received the first transatlantic wireless signal in 1901—an event that made modern telecommunications possible – history made right here on The Rock. I always think about Marconi standing there in 1901, on his own adventure, and his family and friends probably thinking he was half-brilliant and half-cracked.
The hike up to Signal Hill isn’t for the faint of heart, but trust me, the views are worth it – and it is a rite of passage for anyone visiting or living here. On a clear day, you can see the horizon curve as you look east toward Ireland and England; and if you’re lucky, an iceberg might drift by in the distance. For me, it’s not just the view that draws me here—it’s the connection to our past, the stories of exploration and innovation that define Newfoundland. Today, though, it’s just me and the view with the Narrows stretching below, and the Atlantic opens wide beyond.
I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve hiked Signal Hill. But I can tell you this every angle is a postcard, and the history there is as rich as the views are breathtaking. But even if you’ve been here a thousand times like me, there’s always something new to see—or discover.
After soaking up the sights, I headed down to The Battery, one of the most iconic neighborhoods in St. John’s. Here, colorful homes cling to the cliffs like they’re part of the rock itself, and the ocean feels so close you could reach out and touch it.
I stopped at The Battery Café for lunch, where the Grilled Cheese sandwich is as rich and comforting as a warm blanket on a cold day. Sitting by the window, I could see the trailhead for the North Head Trail, a rugged path that hugs the coastline and offers some of the most dramatic views in the city. Every step along this trail feels like pure Newfoundland—wild, raw, and utterly breathtaking.
If you’re looking for quintessential Newfoundland charm, you’ll find it in Quidi Vidi Village. Tucked away like a hidden gem, this tiny fishing village feels like stepping back in time. The colorful stages on stilts, the glassy water reflecting the cliffs, and the quiet hum of life—it’s postcard perfection.
No trip to Quidi Vidi is complete without a stop at the Quidi Vidi Brewery. Their Iceberg Beer, brewed with water from actual icebergs, is as crisp and refreshing as the air here. After a pint (or two), I wandered over to the Quidi Vidi Plantation, where local artisans create stunning works of art. From hand-carved codfish to pottery that reflects our coastal roots, it’s the perfect place to pick up a piece of Newfoundland to take home.
For dinner, I headed back to Mallard Cottage in Quidi Vidi, where the historic charm of an 18th-century cottage meets the culinary brilliance of locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. That night, it was slow-roasted cod with a side of root vegetables—a meal that felt like the essence of Newfoundland on a plate.
But no day in St. John’s is complete without a visit to George Street, the city’s legendary strip of pubs and live music. I started at O’Reilly’s Irish Newfoundland Pub, where traditional tunes had the whole crowd stomping and singing along. Then it was off to Trapper John’s, where the screech-in ceremony—kissing a cod, downing a shot of Screech rum, and reciting the oath—is a rite of passage for any visitor to The Rock.
Nightcap: A Quiet Moment on the Waterfront
After the music fades and the laughter settles, there’s nothing like a walk along the St. John’s waterfront. The fishing boats rock gently in the harbor, the salty air wraps around you, and the lights of the city shimmer on the water like stars.
This is my St. John’s—bold, vibrant, and full of heart. It’s the place where I grew up, the place I always return to, and the place I’m proud to share with you. So whadd’ya at, b’y? Come explore, and let St. John’s steal your heart like it’s stolen mine. Long may your big jib draw!
When you’ve grown up in St. John’s like I have, the city isn’t just a place—it’s part of who you are. The colorful jellybean houses on steep streets, the scent of salt in the air down by the harbor, and the sound of gulls squawking over the Narrows—they’re stitched into your memories. They’re not just landmarks; they’re home. And while I’ve been lucky enough to travel all over Newfoundland for Adventures Unknown, nothing beats starting and ending my adventures here in St. John’s.
I’ve seen this city through a camera lens more times than I can count, shooting episodes in its iconic spots. But the best way to experience St. John’s? Through your own eyes, one step, one meal, and one laugh at a time. So, whadd’ya at? Let’s spend a day together in my hometown, where the familiar always finds a way to surprise you.
It doesn’t matter how many times I’ve walked down Water Street—it always feels like stepping back in time and into the present all at once. The oldest street in North America, they say. And while I’ve shot scenes here for Adventures Unknown, like that time we featured St. John’s food trucks, today I’m just a local grabbing breakfast.
First stop: [Rocket Bakery & Fresh Food] (https://rocketfood.ca). Back when I was a kid, a “bakery” meant bread and buns, but Rocket’s got everything—scones, quiches, cookies, and coffee strong enough to knock the grogginess out of you. I went for the partridgeberry scone (a classic) and a flat white. (check and see if they have this)
Sitting by the window, I watched the city come alive. Water Street’s mix of historic charm and modern energy is something special. It’s a place where people still stop to talk to each other on the street—something I’ve always loved about this city.
And then, off I went, wandering those steep streets lined with jellybean houses. Growing up here, I never thought much about the colors. It was just how houses were painted. Now, seeing visitors light up when they spot them, I get it. They’re pure Newfoundland—bright and bold, even when the weather isn’t.
I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve filmed at [Signal Hill National Historic Site] (https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/lhn-nhs/nl/signalhill). Every angle’s a postcard, and the history there is as rich as the views are breathtaking. But even if you’ve been here a thousand times, there’s always something new to see—or remember.
The hike up to Cabot Tower is a rite of passage for anyone visiting or living here. It’s a steep climb, but the views are worth every step. I always think about Marconi standing there in 1901, making history with the first transatlantic wireless signal. When I filmed an Adventures Unknown segment about Newfoundland’s role in global innovation, we stood in that very spot.
Today, though, it’s just me and the view. The Narrows stretch below, and the Atlantic opens wide beyond. On a clear day, you can see the horizon curve. There’s something humbling about standing there, where land meets sea in one of the most dramatic ways.
After soaking in the views, I headed back down to the Battery neighborhood, one of the most unique areas in St. John’s. The houses here cling to the cliffs, and you can almost feel the stories they’ve held over the years.
I stopped at [The Battery Café](https://www.batterycafe.ca/), a cozy spot with some of the best chowder in town. I’ve always loved coming here, whether I’m planning my next shoot or just taking a breather. The seafood chowder was perfect—rich, hearty, and filled with the flavors of the ocean just outside the window. (do they have this?)
The Battery’s also the starting point of the [North Head Trail](https://www.alltrails.com/trail/canada/newfoundland-and-labrador/north-head-trail), a favorite of mine. I’ve walked this trail dozens of times, including for Adventures Unknown, and it never gets old. The rugged coastline, the crashing waves—it’s raw Newfoundland beauty at its finest.
If you’ve ever seen Adventures Unknown, you’ve probably heard me rave about [Quidi Vidi Village] (https://quidividibrewery.ca). It’s a place I’ve visited more times than I can count, and yet it still feels like a hidden gem.
Quidi Vidi is postcard Newfoundland—a tiny fishing village with colorful stages on stilts, glassy water, and a peaceful charm that makes you want to linger. It’s also home to the [Quidi Vidi Brewery] (https://quidividibrewery.ca), where Iceberg Beer is brewed with actual iceberg water. I stopped by for a tour and a pint, reliving memories of filming here and learning something new about the brewing process.
Around the corner is the [Quidi Vidi Plantation] (https://www.quidividibrewery.ca/quidividi-village/plantation), where local artisans create everything from pottery to jewelry. I picked up a hand-carved wooden codfish for my mantle—a perfect reminder of my roots.
Next up was [The Rooms] (https://www.therooms.ca), a place I always recommend to visitors. It’s more than a museum; it’s a cultural hub where Newfoundland’s past and present come together.
I’ve filmed here before, diving into the province’s history for an episode on Newfoundland’s role in World War II. But today, I wandered the exhibits on my own, taking my time with the stories of Indigenous peoples, early settlers, and the ever-resilient fishing communities.
And then there’s the rooftop café. Sitting there with a coffee, looking out over the harbor and the city, I thought about how lucky I am to call this place home.
For dinner, I headed back to Quidi Vidi for a meal at [Mallard Cottage] (https://mallardcottage.ca). It’s a place I’ve filmed at, eaten at, and always look forward to returning to. Housed in a historic 18th-century cottage, it’s as cozy as it gets.
The menu changes daily, but you can count on it being local and seasonal. That night, I had slow-roasted cod with root vegetables, paired with a glass of wine from Nova Scotia. It was simple, elegant, and utterly Newfoundland.
No day in St. John’s ends without a visit to [George Street] (https://www.georgestreetlive.ca), the city’s famous stretch of pubs and live music venues.
I started at [O’Reilly’s Irish Newfoundland Pub] (https://oreillyspub.com), where the music was loud, the laughter was louder, and the Guinness was flowing like water. There’s something about traditional Newfoundland tunes played live—the kind of songs that make you want to stomp your feet and belt out the lyrics, even if you’ve never heard them before.
From there, I wandered into [Trapper John’s Museum and Pub] (https://trapperjohnsmuseumandpub.business.site), where they’re famous for their rowdy screech-in ceremonies. If you’re new to Newfoundland, getting screeched in is practically a rite of passage. They make you kiss a cod, take a shot of Screech rum, and recite an oath that declares you an honorary Newfoundlander. I’ve been screeched in more times than I can count for Adventures Unknown, but it never gets old watching the wide-eyed tourists embrace the tradition.
As the night went on, I stopped at [YellowBelly Brewery & Public House] (https://www.yellowbellybrewery.com), one of my favorite spots for craft beer in St. John’s. Their Wexford Wheat Ale is a personal favorite, and the historic building—dating back to 1725—gives the place a warm, old-world charm.
After all the excitement on George Street, I like to end the night with a quiet walk along the St. John’s waterfront. The fishing boats rock gently in the harbor, their lights casting shimmering reflections on the water. The crisp night air smells of salt and seaweed, and the city feels peaceful, even as it buzzes in the distance.
Standing there, with the Narrows in the background, I thought about all the times I’ve stood in this very spot—both as a kid dreaming of adventures and as an adult living them. St. John’s isn’t just a backdrop for my life; it’s the heart of it. And no matter where my travels take me, I always come back to this harbor, to these streets, and to this city that has shaped me.
To make your visit even richer, here’s a roundup of additional places to explore, eat, stay, and experience:
More Places to Eat (add some)
**Basho Restaurant & Lounge**: A fusion of Japanese and Newfoundland cuisine, offering sushi with a local twist.
**Bernard Stanley Gastropub**: A laid-back spot with hearty dishes like pulled pork poutine and burgers made with Newfoundland moose meat.
More Nightlife (add some)
**The Ship Pub**: A favorite among locals for its laid-back vibe and live music.
**Dusk Ultra Lounge**: For those looking for a more modern, upscale nightlife experience.
**Christian’s Pub**: Another spot famous for its screech-ins and cozy atmosphere.
More Tours and Experiences (add some)
**Iceberg Quest Ocean Tours**: For a stunning view of icebergs, whales, and seabirds right from the St. John’s harbor.
**St. John’s Haunted Hike**: A guided evening walk that dives into the spooky side of the city’s history.
**Fishing for Success at Island Rooms of Petty Harbour**: Try your hand at traditional Newfoundland fishing techniques just a short drive from downtown.
More Places to Stay (add some)
**The Inn by Mallard Cottage**: A luxurious and intimate stay in the heart of Quidi Vidi Village.
**Sheraton Hotel Newfoundland**: A modern hotel with views of the harbor and Signal Hill.
**The Luxus Boutique Hotel**: An upscale boutique hotel with personalized service and a chic design.
St. John’s is a city that’s impossible to sum up in one visit—or even in one lifetime. It’s a place where history meets modernity, where the harsh beauty of nature is softened by the warmth of its people. It’s where I grew up, where I’ve shared countless adventures on Adventures Unknown, and where I’ve created some of my most cherished memories.
Whether you’re sipping coffee at Rocket Bakery, hiking the trails of Signal Hill, or raising a pint on George Street, St. John’s welcomes you with open arms and an open heart. And if you see me around town—camera in hand, or maybe just enjoying a quiet moment by the harbor—don’t be shy. Say hello, share your story, and let’s toast to this incredible city.
Whadd’ya at? It’s time to start your own adventure in St. John’s. Long may your big jib draw!
