Saint John River Valley Travel Guide
Plan your trip to the beautiful Saint John River Valley. From cultural and natural attractions to hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, to local customs, transportation options, safety, and nearby destinations and excursions, this guide has got you covered.
- Introduction to Saint John River Valley
- List of Places to Visit in Saint John River Valley
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Saint John River Valley
- Best Things to Do in Saint John River Valley: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Saint John River Valley
- Food and Drink Scene of Saint John River Valley
- Where to Stay in Saint John River Valley: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Saint John River Valley: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Saint John River Valley
- Best Time to Visit Saint John River Valley
- Do’s and Don’ts of Saint John River Valley
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Saint John River Valley: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Saint John River Valley
- Where to Go Next from Saint John River Valley: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Saint John River Valley
Saint John River Valley is a sprawling region in New Brunswick, Atlantic Canada, that stretches from Fredericton to Edmundston. It is named after the Saint John River, which is the longest river in the province. The area boasts of stunning natural landscapes, vibrant culture, impressive architecture, and rich history. It’s a destination for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and those seeking a relaxing vacation. This comprehensive travel guide will help you plan your trip to Saint John River Valley.
List of Places to Visit in Saint John River Valley
There’s plenty to see and do in Saint John River Valley. Here’s a list of must-visit places for every traveler.
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- City Market: A National Historic Site, this is one of the oldest farmers’ markets in Canada. It offers exotic and local goods, delicious eats, and an authentic atmosphere.
- New Brunswick Museum: This award-winning museum holds significant historical collections, including significant whale skeletons, ongoing research in the fields of natural history and art, and New Brunswick cultural and historical artifacts.
- Kings Landing: This historical settlement gives you a glimpse of what life was like in the early 19th century in the region. Staffs are dressed in period costumes, and historical reenactments make the visit more immersive.
Natural Attractions of Saint John River Valley: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Herring Cove Provincial Park: Picnicking, camping, rich birdlife and surprising geological formations. This popular park offers biking, fishing, canoeing, and camping opportunities.
- Mount Carleton Provincial Park: If you’re a hiker or a nature lover, do not miss out on the chance to trek up to the summit of Mount Carleton. It’s the highest mountain in the Maritimes, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
- Mactaquac Provincial Park: A popular summer getaway, this park is home to a massive campground, a golf course, and a marina. The park is perfect for water sports enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for kayaking, boating, and swimming.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Saint John River Valley
Saint John River Valley is a stunning destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Here are some of the most popular trails in the region.
- Lime Kiln Trail: This trail runs along the east bank of the Saint John River, offering stunning views of the river and the surrounding wilderness. The trail is suitable for both hikers and bikers.
- Fort Nashwaak Trail: This hike is in Fredericton along the Nashwaak River, starting at the City of Fredericton Trail. The gravel path is perfect for biking as well.
Best Things to Do in Saint John River Valley: Activities and Tours
- Saint John River Boat Tours: Discover the magic of Saint John River on a boat tour. The trip is led by a knowledgeable guide, and visitors can learn about the area’s ecosystem and history while relaxing on the water.
- Fredericton Tasting Tour: Take a break from sightseeing and taste some of the delightful cuisine in Fredericton. The Fredericton Tasting Tour starts with a trip to the Boyce Farmers’ Market and ends with a visit to various eateries serving traditional and contemporary delicacies.
- St. Andrews by-the-Sea: Located on the Bay of Fundy, this picturesque town offers tourists with opportunities for fort tours and whale watching.
Week-Long Itinerary for Saint John River Valley
Here’s a suggested itinerary for a weeklong trip in Saint John River Valley.
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| 1 | Visit the New Brunswick Museum and walk around the City Market in Saint John. |
| 2 | Explore the Mactaquac Provincial Park, take a dip in the lake, and enjoy a BBQ. |
| 3 | Drive to Fredericton, enjoy the local food scene, and walk around the historic downtown. |
| 4 | Visit the Kings Landing Historical Settlement, and take a horse carriage ride along the Saint John River. |
| 5 | Do a nature hike on the Fort Nashwaak Trail and refresh roadside stands for fresh and organic produce. |
| 6 | Take a boat tour on the Saint John River, visit the St. Andrews by-the-Sea, do experience whale watching. |
| 7 | Get up early and plan to do an early morning trek on Mount Carleton, see the sunrise over the Saint John River Valley. |
Food and Drink Scene of Saint John River Valley
The culinary scene in Saint John River Valley is vibrant, with several restaurants serving traditional and modern cuisine. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages.
Must-Try Dishes
- Lobster Roll: The Saint John River Valley is known for its delicious lobster roll, served with simple garnishes like lemon and butter.
- Fiddleheads: Fiddleheads are a local specialty grown in the region. They are harvested in May and are considered a delicacy.
- Wild Blueberry Pie: Wild Blueberries grow everywhere in the province, and the pie is coveted and served in all bakeries.
Local Beverages
- Picaroons Brewing Company: Picaroons Brewing Company is a local brewery and pub in Fredericton, serving award-winning craft beer.
- Adirondack Distilling Company: This local distillery specializes in whiskey, gin, and vodka, using locally sourced ingredients and pure water from nearby springs.
Where to Stay in Saint John River Valley: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Saint John River Valley offers a range of accommodation options, from high-end hotels to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. Here are some of our top picks:
- The Algonquin Resort St. Andrews by-the-Sea: This upscale resort is located on the Bay of Fundy, offering stunning views and an excellent spa service.
- The Riverside Resort & Conference Centre: This family-friendly hotel in Fredericton offers comfortable rooms, an indoor pool, and an on-site restaurant.
- The Happy Globe Hostel: This clean and cozy hostel is located in downtown Saint John and provides budget-friendly accommodation options with excellent amenities and security systems.
What to Buy in Saint John River Valley: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Here are some of the best souvenirs and local products to bring back home from Saint John River Valley.
- Maple syrup: In the Saint John River Valley, the maple syrup is made with pure maple extracted from the maple trees.
- Pottery: The artisanal pottery scene in Saint John River Valley is vibrant, with many shops selling unique and handcrafted pieces.
- Local artwork: Saint John River Valley is home to several artists and galleries that showcase the area’s beauty, including paintings, sculptures, and photography.
Local Culture and Customs of Saint John River Valley
Saint John River Valley is a community shaped by its natural resources and cultural heritage. Here are some customs and traditions to keep in mind while traveling in the region.
- Language: English is the primary language spoken in the region.
- Respect for Nature: Saint John River Valley is home to many wildlife species, and it’s vital to respect the environment and use sustainable practices.
- Fees: Some Parks might charge you an entry fee.
Best Time to Visit Saint John River Valley
The best time to visit Saint John River Valley is from late spring to early autumn, from May to October. Summers are warm, with plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation activities, while the fall season offers beautiful colors from the foliage.
Do’s and Don’ts of Saint John River Valley
Do:
- Respect the environment and natural resources in the region.
- Patronize local businesses and support the regional economy.
- Try the local cuisine and attend cultural events.
Don’t:
- Don’t visit protected areas that are not safe for hikers or tourists
- Don’t litter the streets or the parks.
- Don’t leave without trying their famous Lobster Roll, Maple Syrup, and Wild Blueberry Pie.
Safety and Health
Safety in Saint John River Valley
Saint John River Valley is generally a safe place for tourists. However, it’s essential to take precautions like locking your hotel rooms, avoiding unlit or isolated areas at night, and keeping an eye on your valuables. Be cautious when hiking on mountains.
Health in Saint John River Valley
Healthcare services in Saint John River Valley are exceptional, with several hospitals and clinics located in the region. Carry appropriate health insurance coverage and carry personal toiletries with you.
Getting to Saint John River Valley: Transportation Options and Logistics
Saint John River Valley is accessible via several transportation options.
Airports Near Saint John River Valley
- Greater Fredericton International Airport: 70 minutes driving time away from downtown Fredericton.
- Saint John Airport: Approximately 20 minutes away from downtown Saint John.
- Edmundston Airport: The nearest airport to Edmundston.
Bus Stations Near Saint John River Valley
Maritime Bus Services offer bus services to Saint John River Valley and to neighbouring communities like Fredericton, Woodstock, and Edmundston.
Other Options
Driving or renting a car is an excellent option for tourists who want to take in the scenic route. There are also taxis and private-hire transport services like Uber and Lyft available.
How to Get Around in Saint John River Valley
Saint John River Valley is an easy-to-navigate destination with several transportation options available. Renting a car is a good idea to visit the various parks, settlements, and other sightseeing places.
Where to Go Next from Saint John River Valley: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
The Saint John River Valley offers several nearby destinations and excursions. Some of those include:
- Bay of Fundy: Watch the whales and giant whales at the Bay of Fundy. It’s one of the seven wonders of North America.
- Grand Falls: Visitors can see the powerful, 165 feet high waterfall at the Grand Falls.
- Québec City: Visit the historical French city of Québec city, which is roughly an eight-hour drive from Saint John River Valley.
Conclusion
Saint John River Valley is a stunning region with a diverse landscape and a rich cultural heritage. From historical sites and museums to outdoor adventures and breathtaking views, this region has something for everyone. Plan your visit today to experience the beauty and wonder of Saint John River Valley.
