Saint John’s, Newfoundland, is famed for its colorful houses, stunning harbor, and friendly people. But dig a little deeper, and you’ll find some seriously charming and peculiar tidbits/facts that make this city unique.
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The Reversing Falls Phenomenon: Where the Saint John River meets the Bay of Fundy, the tides create a unique effect – the river reverses its flow! Witness this natural wonder at the Reversing Falls Rapids.
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Iceberg Alley: Thanks to its prime location, Saint John’s sometimes welcomes iceberg visitors drifting down from the North Atlantic. Keep your camera ready!
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North America’s Oldest City: Saint John’s was incorporated in 1785, earning its bragging rights as the continent’s most senior city.
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Great Fire Survivor: In 1877, a fire ravaged much of the city, yet Saint John’s rebuilt with its signature resilience and vibrant spirit.
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The Tunnel That Never Was: Legend has it, there’s a secret tunnel connecting a local pub to the waterfront – a smuggler’s delight back in the day, perhaps?
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Jellybean Row Delight: Saint John’s is famous for its brightly painted “Jellybean Row” houses, adding a burst of color even on a foggy day.
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Birthplace of Molson Canadian? While debated, the popular beer brand Molson has strong ties to Saint John’s, with its brewery operating since the 1860s.
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Longest Covered Bridge in Canada: The Hartland Covered Bridge is an impressive feat of engineering and a picturesque spot for a photo op.
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Partridge Island Quarantine Station: Now a National Historic Site, this island served as the entry point for many immigrants in the 19th and early 20th centuries.
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“Time Ball” Tradition: Before accurate clocks were everywhere, the Time Ball tower would drop a giant ball to signal 1 PM, guiding ship navigation.
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Fog Horn Fanfare: Saint John’s fog is legendary, and the foghorns at the harbor create an atmospheric, almost haunting soundscape.
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Martello Tower Fortress: This unique round tower was built for defense in the early 1800s and now offers spectacular views.
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Loyalist City: Saint John’s welcomed a wave of Loyalists fleeing the American Revolution, shaping the city’s strong British ties.
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Quirky Pub Names: From “The Dirty Shame” to “O’Leary’s”, Saint John’s pubs boast some of the most creative names around.
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George Street Festival Fever: This annual summer bash transforms a downtown street into a party zone with live music, food, and Newfoundlander revelry.
The Verdict
Saint John’s is a place where history whispers through the weathered streets, a dash of salty sea air mixes with modern life, and a warm welcome cancels out any hint of fog.