Things to do in St. John’s: The city’s hidden gems

St. John’s, Newfoundland is a beautiful old city. With vibrant history and culture, it’s a popular tourist destination that features many attractions for memorable visits. Here are eight things to do in St. John’s to help you plan your next trip.

Things to do in St. John's if you're looking for: Science and nature

Johnson Geo Centre

For the science nerd in all of us, the Geo Centre can be addictive. They offer a variety of unique attractions, ranging from a geo-themed gift shop to a model of the solar system to the Amazing Earth Theatre. Anyone who’s ever had a rock collection or wanted to know more about our planet will enjoy this stop.

Memorial University Botanical Garden

The garden has over 100 acres of nature trails, cultured gardens, and greenhouses – not to mention a gift shop and cafe. Located in picturesque Pippy Park, the Memorial University Botanical Garden is a peaceful retreat to explore on your own or on a guided tour.

Things to do in St. John's if you need: A cocktail

Magnum & Steins

Located downtown in the same building as the Duckworth Inn, Magnum & Steins is a restaurant that also offers a wine and cocktail bar. Their menu is delicious and creative, and their decor is very attractive.

O’Reilly’s Pub

Located on famous George Street, O’Reilly’s was voted Canada’s Favourite Bar by readers of Air Canada’s enRoute magazine. They feature drinkables and edibles (moose meat nachos, anyone?) and feature live music every night. If you’re looking to be officially “screeched-in,” O’Reilly’s is the place to go.

Things to do in St. John's if you need: A caffeine fix

Coffee Matters

Featuring several locations across Newfoundland, Coffee Matters offers a wide variety of coffee and tea, specialty beverages, and several delicious breakfast and lunch options.

Rocket Bakery & Fresh Food

Offering food for dining in or taking out, plus catering, groceries, a bakery that produces amazing cakes, and – of course – freshly brewed coffee, Rocket also rents out large, heritage-restored facilities for events. They’ve also been featured on the television show You Gotta Eat Here.

Things to do in St. John's if you're looking for: An underrated shop

Newfoundland Chocolate Company

The Chocolate Company offers tours and sells beautifully-packaged Newfoundland-themed chocolate collections, available both in store and online. They have a cafe on site and rent out facilities for weddings and events.

Whink

This charming shop is located in downtown St. John’s and they sell art, jewellery, and knickknacks. Whink’s gifts are fun and whimsical, featuring creations from local artists. The shop even has its own signature line of products.

Photos by: Wikimedia Commons, O'Reilly's Irish Newfoundland Pub, Coffee Matters Facebook, Canada's Garden Route, Newfoundland Chocolate Company Facebook, Whink Facebook, Rocket Food Newfoundland Facebook, Magnum & Steins Facebook