If you’re planning a visit to Saint John, New Brunswick, and want to experience it in a way that combines history, stunning views, and a touch of local charm, this small group night tour could be just what you’re looking for. While I haven’t done this exact tour myself, I’ve read plenty of reviews and information to give you a clear picture of what it offers—and who it suits best.

What immediately stands out about this experience is its intimate size—limited to just 6 guests—which promises a more personalized and relaxed vibe. Plus, the fact that it includes both iconic landmarks and panoramic views makes it a well-rounded way to see the city after dark. That said, it’s worth noting that the Carleton Martello Tower is under restoration until 2022, meaning you won’t be able to enter the tower itself during your visit, but you will still get a great view from the grounds.

If you enjoy learning about a place’s history while enjoying excellent scenery, and prefer tours that avoid the hassle of long lines and crowded spots, this tour is likely to be a good fit. It’s particularly suited for travelers who value guided insights, want to see the city illuminated at night, and appreciate a leisurely, comfortable experience.

Key Points

Intimate Group Setting: max 6 guests ensures a personalized experience.
Includes Iconic Sights: visits to Fort La Tour, Martello Tower, and more.
Nighttime Views: spectacular panoramic vistas from the Martello Tower viewpoint.
Comprehensive Experience: narrated drive and guided visits with all entry fees included.
Convenient: hotel pickup and drop-off in Saint John, saving you hassle.
Good Value: around $82 for 2 hours of guided sightseeing, including some notable attractions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Saint John Night Tour

This tour is designed to show you Saint John’s highlights in a relaxed, evening setting. It lasts about 2 hours, which makes it perfect if you’re short on time but want to get a taste of the city’s charm after sunset. From the start, you’ll be picked up directly from your downtown Saint John hotel—no fuss—and transported in a comfortable, air-conditioned van.

The tour kicks off with a narrated drive through the city, giving you a quick overview of the major sights lit up at night. Expect to see the bustling Saint John Port, the lively Uptown area, King Square, and historic Fort Howe. The guide’s commentary is a big plus here—not just listing facts but sharing stories that bring the city’s history and culture to life.

One of the tour’s standout moments is a visit to the Reversing Falls Rapids. Here, the guide will explain the fascinating phenomenon where the tides of the Bay of Fundy cause the Saint John River to reverse its flow—an awe-inspiring sight you’ll probably want to watch from a safe distance. It’s a natural spectacle that’s both dramatic and educational.

Next, the tour takes you to Fort La Tour, a National Historic Site, which once served as a fur trading post in the 17th century. While the tower itself is closed for restoration until 2022, you will still be able to explore the grounds and enjoy the view. The guide will help you picture what this site once was and explain its role in the region’s history.

The highlight for many is the visit to the Carleton Martello Tower. Built around 1812, it played a part in conflicts up until WWII. Although the tower itself isn’t accessible during restoration, the lookout offers sweeping views over Saint John’s harbor and skyline—especially atmospheric at sunset and night.

The tour concludes with a quick return to your hotel, leaving you with a sense of the city’s character illuminated under the night sky.

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Saint John Night Driving Tour With Skywalk & Martello Tower

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

At $82 per person, you’re paying for a well-rounded, guided experience that covers major sights and includes all entry fees. The small group size means fewer crowds and more personal interaction, which many travelers find valuable. Plus, the hotel pickup and drop-off add to the convenience, making it easier to fit into your overall travel plans.

While a two-hour tour isn’t exhaustive, it does pack in a lot of highlights, giving you a taste of Saint John’s history, natural beauty, and vibrant cityscape. If you’re someone who appreciates storytelling and prefers a leisurely pace over rushed sightseeing, this tour strikes a good balance.

Practical Considerations and Who Should Sign Up

This tour operates rain or shine, so come prepared for the weather. The group size is quite small, limited to about 6 guests, which is ideal for those who dislike large crowds. The tour is suitable for travelers who want a relaxed, guided experience that touches on history and scenic views without dragging on.

It’s less suited if you’re after a more active or inside experience—since the Martello Tower is closed for restoration, you won’t get the full interior tour there. Also, if you’re traveling with very young children or prefer daytime sightseeing, you might find this evening tour less engaging.

For couples, solo travelers, or small groups looking for a relaxed, insightful way to see Saint John at night, this experience offers a lot of value. It’s a chance to learn, see stunning views, and enjoy some local storytelling—all in a cozy setting.

The Sum Up

This small group night tour of Saint John is a solid way to experience the city’s charm after sunset. It combines a narrated drive, visits to key landmarks like Fort La Tour and the Martello Tower, and unforgettable views of the harbor illuminated at night. The fact that you’re traveling with a small group and in a comfortable vehicle makes it feel personal and hassle-free, especially with hotel pickup and drop-off included.

It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who appreciate history, scenic vistas, and informative guides, all within a compact two-hour window. While the closure of the Martello Tower means you won’t get inside, the grounds and viewpoint still offer a worthwhile experience. The price point is reasonable given the inclusions, especially considering all the logistics are handled for you.

Overall, if you want a relaxed, informative, and scenic way to see Saint John’s highlights after dark, this tour ticks many boxes. It’s a gentle, enjoyable introduction to the city’s nighttime glow and historical sites, perfect for those who prefer small groups, storytelling, and comfort.

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Saint John: Small Group Night Tour w/Fort La Tour + Martello

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FAQ

Is hotel pickup available? Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from any hotel in downtown Saint John.

How long is the tour? The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a manageable and relaxed experience.

What sights will I see? You’ll see a narrated drive of the city’s illuminated sights, visit Reversing Falls Rapids, Fort La Tour grounds, and the Martello Tower viewpoint.

Can I visit the inside of the Martello Tower? No, the tower is closed for restoration until 2022, but you can still visit the grounds and enjoy the views.

Is this tour suitable for families? It’s not specifically geared toward children, but older kids interested in history and scenic views might enjoy it. Keep in mind the tour is mainly outdoor and sightseeing.

What is included in the price? All attraction admission fees, hotel pickup and drop-off, a guide, and transportation in an air-conditioned van.

What if it rains? The tour operates rain or shine, so dress accordingly and be prepared for the weather.

How many people are in each group? The small group is limited to about 6 guests, which keeps the experience intimate.

Is this tour good value? Yes, especially considering the guided narration, multiple attractions, and convenience of hotel pickup—all for $82 per person.

Do I need to book in advance? It’s recommended to reserve ahead, but you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility.

If you’re curious about Saint John and want an evening experience that combines scenery, history, and comfort, this tour could be a very nice way to spend a couple of hours. Just keep an eye on the weather and the schedule, and you’re set for a memorable evening.