St. John's, Newfoundland & Labrador
There are places you visit, and then there are places you feel.
Downtown St. John’s is firmly the latter. It’s in the rhythm of footsteps along narrow streets, the salt air drifting in from the harbour, and the way colour seems to appear around every corner. If you’ve ever seen a photo of bright, tightly packed homes climbing a hillside, you’ve already met one of the most iconic sights in the St. John’s region: Jellybean Row.
A Street That Tells a Story Jellybean Row isn’t just one street, it’s a nickname affectionately given to the rows of vividly painted houses found throughout downtown St. John’s. From soft pastels to bold, saturated hues, these homes reflect both practicality and personality. Traditionally painted in bright colours to stand out in foggy weather, today they’re a joyful expression of the city’s creative spirit. You’ll find some of the most photographed stretches along Gower Street, Duckworth Street, and in the hills leading toward The Battery. But the real magic? It’s in the wandering. Because here, the best moments aren’t always the ones you plan.
The Art of Wandering Downtown St. John’s invites you to slow down.
Click to view the full Downtown St. John’s Walking Map
Start at the waterfront, where the coast guard, offshore vessels, fishing boats and sailboats share space with restaurants, food trucks a heritage hotel and more. Make your way up through Water Street—one of North America’s oldest streets—where local shops, fun personalities, galleries, and restaurants line the way. From there, let curiosity lead.
Turn left when you feel like it. Follow the sound of live music drifting out an open door. Wander uphill for sweeping views of the harbour, where rows of colourful homes seem to stack toward the sky.
This is a place best experienced without a strict plan, but if you’re looking to go deeper, to hear the stories behind the streets, a walking tour can bring the city to life in a whole new way.
See the City Through a Local Lens
Whether you’re drawn to history, culture, or a touch of the unexpected, these guided experiences offer a richer way to explore downtown St. John’s:
A classic introduction to the city, these tours weave together history, architecture, and local stories as you explore the streets on foot. It’s a great way to get your bearings, and a deeper appreciation for the place.
Storytelling takes centre stage here. Expect engaging guides who bring Newfoundland and Labrador’s folklore, history, and characters vividly to life.
A more intimate, cultural experience, these tours focus on connection, linking visitors with the people, traditions, and creative spirit that shape the region and in this particular case, The Battery.
As evening falls, the city reveals a different side. This award-winning tour blends history and mystery, guiding you through some of downtown’s most storied (and spine-tingling) locations.
Life in Colour
In the St. John’s region, colour isn’t just something you see, it’s something you experience. It’s in the homes, the stories, the people you meet along the way. It’s in the laughter spilling out of a pub, the quiet moments overlooking the harbour, and the feeling that you’ve stumbled into somewhere both vibrant and deeply rooted.
So take your time. Wander a little longer. Follow the colour wherever it leads. You never know what you’ll find.
Published: May 4, 2026
