Saint John & the Fundy Coast - ideas for free time
If you have an afternoon free in Saint John then take a stroll around Uppertown, which is in fact the main hub of the city. Here you can pop in to the New Brunswick Museum, which combines displays of natural and cultural history to paint a rounded and interesting picture of the province, or wander around the city market (open Monday to Saturday) which offers a traditional farmers market alongside hand-made crafts and interesting local and international foods.
Take time to enjoy the drive between Saint John and Hopewell Cape (or vice versa). The main highway passes through the middle of Fundy National Park and a number of walking trails start from road – varying in length from a 0.5 kilometre boardwalk to much longer trails that require a bit more experience, and time. East of the park a short detour form the main highway takes you to Cape Enrage, one of the best places to look out over the Bay. A classic Maritimes white weather-board lighthouse sit on a promontory, watching over a pretty sandy beach on one side and a rocky shoreline on the other, making this a great spot to pause for a photo-stop and a bit of beachcombing.
Hopewell Rocks can be seen from a scenic viewing platform and at high tide this is a good spot from which to view the tops of the stacks visible above the water. However, we also recommend visiting at low tide when you can descend to the ocean floor and walk around the base of the various structures. It is from here you gaze upwards and start to appreciate the magnitude of the tides, and the fascinating patterns they have carved. The rocks are part of a visitor attraction which includes an interpretive centre, restaurant, gift shop, lovely picnic area and walking trails. An entrance fee applies but is valid for two consecutive days in order to catch the changing tides.
