Saint John’s rich history comes alive through three standout walking and cycling tours. The Highlights & History Cycling Tour stands as our favorite active option, combining exercise with stops at the historic Moosehead Brewery while hugging the dramatic Bay of Fundy coastline. History buffs will appreciate the Shore Excursion Walking Tour, which efficiently covers the old city center’s essential landmarks, markets, and atmospheric cemeteries. Pete’s Historic Walking Tour offers the most thorough experience – a practical 2.5-hour journey mixing architectural gems with local haunts, including the bustling City Market and a historic brewpub.
Let’s examine the best historical tours Saint John has to offer.
Key Points
- The Saint John Highlights & History Cycling Tour provides a highly-rated, 4.9-star historical experience exploring the Bay of Fundy and visiting Moosehead Small Batch, Canada’s oldest brewery.
- The Shore Excursion: Saint John History Walking Tour offers a 2-hour walking tour focused on the heritage of Saint John, visiting historic markets, cemeteries, and the downtown core.
- Pete’s Historic Walking Tour, with a 5.0-star rating and 99% recommendation rate, offers a 2.5-hour exploration of Saint John’s City Market, local brewpub, and Olympic-size pool.
- The tours highlight the Bay of Fundy, known for the world’s highest tides, and provide intimate group sizes for personalized exploration.
- All the tours emphasize the historical significance and local culture of Saint John, catering to various fitness levels across different tour formats.
Saint John Highlights & History Cycling Tour
The Saint John Highlights & History Cycling Tour takes participants on a two-wheeled journey through the city’s rich past. This highly-rated 4.9-star tour explores significant historical sites along the Bay of Fundy, including a trading post dating back thousands of years and military forts from the American Revolutionary War.
Travelers can enjoy a refreshing 16oz beverage at Canada’s oldest brewery, Moosehead Small Batch, and witness the stunning Reversing Falls Rapids. The tour is recommended by 100% of previous guests and has earned a Badge of Excellence.
At $83.59 per person, the tour includes bicycle and helmet rental, alcoholic beverages, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
With a maximum of 2 travelers per tour, this intimate experience requires a moderate fitness level. The meeting point is at Lilys in Saint John, and the tour returns to the same location.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour welcomes service animals. Excellent communication from the tour operators and their successful retrieval of lost items have further delighted past participants.
Read our full review: Saint John Highlights & History Cycling Tour Review
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Shore Excursion:Saint John History Walking Tour
Exploring Canada’s oldest incorporated city, the Saint John History Walking Tour offers visitors a chance to uncover the rich heritage of this maritime hub.
This 2-hour excursion takes guests on a journey through historic markets, cemeteries, green spaces, and the downtown core. Along the way, you’ll witness the unique tides of the famous Bay of Fundy, known for having the world’s highest tides.
The tour is suitable for all ages, but participants should wear comfortable walking shoes. Led by a professional guide, the small-group experience is limited to 15 travelers, ensuring a more personalized exploration.
The meeting point is conveniently located at the Saint John cruise pier, with clear instructions provided 14 days before the cruise.
Priced at $64.06 per person, the Saint John History Walking Tour offers a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
With a timely return to the ship, this shore excursion is an ideal way to explore the city’s storied past.
Read our full review: Shore Excursion:Saint John History Walking Tour Review
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Petes Historic Walking Tour
Situated within the historic heart of Saint John, Pete’s Historic Walking Tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the city’s storied past.
This 2.5-hour excursion, led by a knowledgeable and passionate guide, delves into the unique sites and stories that often escape other tours.
With a maximum group size of 16 travelers, the tour provides an intimate and engaging experience. Guests can expect to visit the iconic City Market, a local brewpub, and an Olympic-size pool, among other highlights.
The itinerary is adaptable to accommodate weather conditions, and the tour avoids steep climbs by utilizing public escalators.
Boasting an impressive 5.0-star rating from 191 reviews, with 99% of participants recommending the experience, Pete’s Historic Walking Tour is a must for visitors seeking an in-depth understanding of Saint John’s rich history.
At SEK 280.67 per person, it offers excellent value for money and is suitable for various fitness levels.
Read our full review: Petes Historic Walking Tour Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Take Photos During the Tour?
Guests are generally allowed to take photos during historical tours, but it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand. Some sites may have restrictions, so it’s important to follow the guide’s instructions to ensure an enjoyable and respectful experience for everyone.
How Accessible Are the Tour Locations for Those With Disabilities?
The tour locations are generally accessible for those with disabilities, with ramps, elevators, and accommodations available. However, some historic buildings may have limited accessibility due to their age and design. It’s best to inquire about specific accessibility needs when booking the tour.
What Should I Bring With Me on the Tour?
Visitors should bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and water. It’s also a good idea to bring a camera to capture the sights and a small backpack or bag to carry any purchases or snacks. Dressing for the weather is also recommended.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour Participants?
There are typically no age restrictions for participants on historical tours. However, some tours may have minimum age requirements or recommendations, especially for activities that involve physical exertion. It’s best to check with the tour operator for any specific guidelines.
Are Pets Allowed on the Tours?
Most historical tours do not allow pets due to safety and liability concerns. However, some tour operators may make exceptions for service animals with proper documentation. Guests should check with the tour company about their pet policy before booking a tour.
Recap
Saint John’s historical tours provide visitors with engaging and informative experiences. The Highlights & History Cycling Tour, the Saint John History Walking Tour, and Pete’s Historic Walking Tour offer diverse perspectives on the city’s rich past. Travellers can enjoy Saint John’s heritage, from its colonial roots to its industrial legacy, making the most of their time in this historic Canadian port city.