Serene Facts About St. John’s

St. John’s, the capital of Newfoundland and Labrador, is a charming coastal city with a rich history, colourful architecture, and a welcoming maritime spirit. Known for its unique culture, rugged landscapes, and vibrant music scene, St. John’s is a city that’s both splendid and serene. Here are 15 fascinating and fun facts about this enchanting Canadian city:

1. North America’s 2nd Oldest City: establishment in 1497 by John Cabot, an Italian explorer, this is the 2nd oldest city in North America behind Mexico City.
2. Jellybean Row: The city’s historic downtown is famous for its colorful row houses, often called “Jellybean Row,” which create a picturesque and vibrant streetscape.
3. Signal Hill: Signal Hill offers spectacular views of St. John’s Harbor and the Atlantic Ocean. It’s known for Marconi’s first transatlantic wireless signal and its iconic Cabot Tower.
4. George Street: George Street is one of the most lively entertainment districts in North America, with numerous pubs and bars offering live music, making it a hub of nightlife in the city.
5. Iceberg Alley: St. John’s is known as the gateway to “Iceberg Alley,” where massive icebergs drift south from the Arctic, providing a unique opportunity for iceberg watching.
6. Cape Spear: Cape Spear, located just outside St. John’s, is the easternmost point in North America, with a historic lighthouse and rugged coastal beauty.
7. Irish Roots: St. John’s has strong Irish roots, and you can immerse yourself in this heritage through music, dance, and traditional Irish pubs.
8. Quidi Vidi Village: Quidi Vidi Village, a picturesque fishing village within St. John’s, is known for its cozy harbor, hiking trails, and the Quidi Vidi Brewery.
9. Puffin Paradise: Newfoundland, including the coast around St. John’s, is a prime location for puffin watching. Take a boat tour to see these adorable seabirds up close.
10. The Rooms: The Rooms is a cultural center that combines a museum, art gallery, and archives, offering a comprehensive exploration of Newfoundland and Labrador’s history and culture.
11. St. John’s Regatta: The Royal St. John’s Regatta is the oldest continuing organized sporting event in North America, featuring rowing races and a vibrant carnival atmosphere.
12. Whale Watching: The waters off St. John’s are rich with marine life, including humpback and minke whales. Take a boat tour for a chance to witness these magnificent creatures.
13. Lively Music Scene: St. John’s has a vibrant music scene, with live performances of traditional Newfoundland and Irish music in many of its cozy pubs.
14. Old World Charm: Downtown St. John’s exudes old-world charm, with narrow lanes, historic buildings, and a cozy atmosphere that makes it perfect for exploration.
15. Friendly Locals: St. John’s is known for its friendly and welcoming residents, who are always ready to strike up a conversation and share stories of the city’s history.

St. John’s, with its colorful character, maritime heritage, and breathtaking natural beauty, is a city that’s both splendid and serene. These 15 facts provide a glimpse of what makes St. John’s a truly enchanting place to explore and enjoy.