Family-Friendly Adventures in Saint John, New Brunswick!

Reversing Falls

Why Visit?

Reversing Falls, located in Saint John, New Brunswick, offers an extraordinary natural spectacle perfect for a family outing. Here’s a detailed yet concise itinerary to make the most of your visit.

Morning: Arrival and Exploration

- Start at the Visitor Center: Kick off your visit at the Fallsview Park, where the Reversing Falls Rapids Visitor Centre provides insightful exhibits about the geological phenomenon and local history. It’s easy to access just off the Saint John Throughway (Route 1).

- Watch the Falls: Time your visit to coincide with the changing tide. The Reversing Falls occurs as the Bay of Fundy’s massive tides reverse the flow of the Saint John River. Peak times are during high tide, so check the local tide schedule.

Afternoon: Adventure and Learning

- Jet Boat Ride: For an up-close experience, take a thrilling jet boat ride through the rapids. It’s an exhilarating way to see the falls and learn about the powerful tidal forces at play. Boats typically depart from the docks near the visitor center.

- Skywalk Saint John: Next, head to the nearby Skywalk. This observation deck offers panoramic views of the falls, the river, and the surrounding landscapes. It’s equipped with glass floors for a look straight down into the whirlpools below.

Lunch Break

- Grab a bite at one of the local eateries near the park or pack a picnic to enjoy at Fallsview Park.

Evening: Stroll and Souvenirs

- Bridge Walk: As the evening approaches, walk across the Reversing Falls bridge for different vantage points of the falls and the city skyline.

- Gift Shop: Conclude your visit at the gift shop in the visitor center, perfect for picking up souvenirs like local crafts and educational books about the Reversing Falls and the Bay of Fundy.

This itinerary offers a blend of education, excitement, and breathtaking natural beauty, ideal for a family day out at Reversing Falls.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Saint John City Market

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary: A Day at Saint John City Market

Morning

Start your adventure at Saint John City Market, the oldest continuing farmer"s market in Canada, located at 47 Charlotte Street in the heart of Saint John. The market opens at 7:30 AM, so you can beat the crowd. If you"re staying downtown, it’s a comfortable walk. Alternatively, take a city bus that stops near King Square, just a block away.

Upon entry, you"ll notice the roof that resembles an inverted ship"s hull, a nod to the city"s shipbuilding industry. Begin with a delicious breakfast from one of the local vendors. Try some freshly baked goods or local jams. Your kids will enjoy watching artisans at work, and they might even get to sample treats like maple candy!

Midday

Explore the array of stalls featuring crafts, fresh produce, and specialty foods. Teach your kids about local agriculture by talking to the farmers. Pick up ingredients for a picnic lunch, including some famous dulse (a type of local seaweed snack), and head to nearby King’s Square for a picnic among historical statues and beautiful flower gardens.

Afternoon

After lunch, join one of the Market’s historical walking tours that start at 1 PM. These engaging tours, led by knowledgeable locals, are perfect for curious minds. You"ll explore hidden corners of the market and learn fascinating facts, like how it served as a gathering place during the Great Fire of 1877.

Late Afternoon

Wrap up your visit by picking up some souvenirs. Handmade crafts or local honey make for great mementos. Before you leave, don"t forget to stop by the market’s community board for photos and to check out upcoming events that might coincide with your visit.

This engaging tour not only delights the taste buds but also enriches your family’s understanding of Saint John’s vibrant culture and history. Enjoy your visit!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.