Saint John: Highlights and History Cycling Tour

If you’re considering a way to see Saint John beyond just walking around or driving through, this 3-hour guided cycling tour might be just the ticket. It’s a neat way to get a local’s perspective on the city’s key sights while enjoying some fresh air and light exercise. From historic forts to scenic harbor views—and a refreshing beer stop—you get a little bit of everything.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines history, scenery, and local flavor in a manageable, small-group format. Plus, it’s suitable for most casual cyclists, making it accessible whether you’re a seasoned rider or just want a relaxed way to explore. That said, the ride does include some hill climbs, so keep that in mind if you’re not used to cycling on varied terrain. Overall, it’s a great pick for travelers wanting an active, informative outing that hits some of Saint John’s highlights without feeling rushed or overwhelming.

This tour isn’t perfect for everyone—people who can’t ride a bike will need to skip it. But if you’re comfortable on a bike and enjoy learning about local history with a bit of fun, it’s worth considering. It’s particularly well-suited for those seeking a relaxed yet engaging way to see the city, maybe with a friend or partner, and who want to sample some local brews along the way.

Key Points

• Ideal for those who enjoy light exercise combined with sightseeing and history.
• Small group size (max 6 guests) ensures personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.
• Includes a stop at Moosehead Brewery for a local beer, adding a relaxed, social element.
• The tour covers several historic forts and scenic spots, offering a good mix of culture and views.
• Bike types and sizing are carefully managed to fit different riders, making it accessible.
• Price point ($83 per person) offers a balanced experience with local beverages included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why You Might Like This Tour

If you’re a history enthusiast, the mention of forts dating back to the American Revolution will catch your eye. Knowing that you’ll visit Fort Howe, Carelton Martello Tower, and Fort LaTour means you’ll get a tangible sense of the area’s past, all while cycling through the city’s lively streets and green spaces.

For those who appreciate a local touch, the brewery stop at Moosehead Brewery is a real highlight. It’s a chance to enjoy a refreshing 16oz beverage while taking a break from pedaling—something many reviews praised as a perfect mid-way treat. It’s not just about drinking; it’s about experiencing local culture in an authentic way.

And if you’re traveling with someone who prefers a relaxed pace, or even a small group, this tour’s limited size makes for a friendly, laid-back vibe. The guide’s knowledge and attention to safety (helmets are required, and water is provided) add peace of mind throughout the ride.

What to Expect: A Detailed Look at the Itinerary

The tour begins at the Lily Lake Pavilion, a peaceful starting point perfect for gathering your group. Once you meet your guide, you’ll hop onto an eight-speed hybrid bike, chosen to handle Saint John’s varied terrain. Don’t worry if you’re unsure about your bike size—you can specify your preference, and the team will do their best to accommodate you. They also have youth-sized bikes if needed.

The ride takes you through some of Saint John’s most iconic sites. Expect to learn about sections of the city that played roles in American history, such as Fort Howe. This site offers commanding views of the city and harbor, making it a great photo stop. Your guide will share stories that bring the city’s past to life, whether it’s about military history or local legends.

Next, you’ll visit Reversing Rapids, a natural phenomenon on the Saint John River where the current shifts direction—an intriguing sight and a fun fact for any curious mind. Then, the tour moves on to Carelton Martello Tower, an old military fortification from the early 19th century, which provides a glimpse into wartime defenses and colonial history.

Throughout the ride, your guide will pause at various scenic points, giving you opportunities to snap photos or just soak in the atmosphere. Expect to learn some fascinating details about each site—these aren’t just stops for selfies but moments to connect with Saint John’s stories.

At around the halfway point, the group stops at the Moosehead Small Batch Brewery. Here, you can recharge with a 16oz Moosehead beer (or split a flight if you prefer), making this a relaxed break to chat and enjoy local flavor. According to reviews, this pitstop is a favorite part of the tour, adding a genuine local experience that’s hard to beat.

Returning along the harbor passage, you’ll cycle through Rockwood Park and along multi-use paths that border the water. This scenic route offers views of the harbor, green spaces, and the city skyline—an excellent way to end your ride feeling energized and enriched.

The Practical Side: What’s Included and What to Bring

You’re covered with a helmet (mandatory by law), a bike, and water bottles for hydration. The tour also provides light snacks, which come in handy if you need a quick energy boost. The price ($83) includes all taxes and fees, making it straightforward without hidden extras.

For your comfort, bring a long-sleeved shirt or light jacket, especially if you’re visiting in the spring or fall when fog or wind might cool things down. Light gloves are optional but recommended during cooler months. Comfortable shoes are a must, as you’ll be cycling for three hours, and weather-appropriate clothing will help you enjoy the ride regardless of conditions.

The meeting point is at the Inside Out Nature Centre in Lily Lake Pavilion, easily accessible via taxi or bus, especially if you’re arriving by cruise. Clear instructions are provided on how to find the start location, and flexibility is built into the booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

The Riding Experience: What to Expect

The tour runs on hybrid bikes with options for different sizes, designed to suit most riders. It’s not an e-bike, so some effort is involved, especially during hill climbs. Several reviewers noted the ride can be a bit challenging—Roz mentioned “several hill climbs”—but the overall pace is kept friendly, with stops to catch your breath and enjoy the scenery.

Most riders find the ride manageable if they’re comfortable on a bike. If you’re worried about difficulty, the guide is happy to adjust the pace or answer questions. Keep in mind, the group is limited to 6 participants, which helps keep things personalized and not overly strenuous.

The experience is designed to be engaging but relaxed. Expect a mix of flat stretches, gentle inclines, and some hill climbs. The tour’s focus on history and scenery means you’re not just pedaling in circles but actively absorbing the stories behind each site.

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Authentic Reviews: Real Travelers’ Take

Heidi from the US called it a “fantastic tour,” praising Darren’s guide skills and noting that it’s a “great way to see the city, park, and history.” That’s a common sentiment—guests appreciate guides who are knowledgeable and friendly.

Alaina from Canada described it as “awesome”, highlighting how the guide kept a good pace and was very attentive, especially when watching traffic for safety. She also appreciated the early readiness of the team, making the experience smooth.

Roz, another US traveler, shared that it was “an exhilarating ride” with some hill climbs but enjoyed the stop at Moosehead immensely. Her review underscores that while there can be physical parts to the ride, the reward—good company, beautiful views, and a local beer—is well worth it.

Who’s This Tour Best For?

This cycling tour is a solid choice for active travelers who enjoy a mix of history, sightseeing, and a touch of local flavor. It caters well to those comfortable on a bike, but the small group size and friendly pace make it accessible for most casual cyclists. If you love learning about the places you visit and appreciate a more personalized experience, you’ll find this tour engaging.

It’s less suited for anyone who can’t ride a bike comfortably or those seeking a more leisurely stroll through town. Families with older children who are confident cyclists might find it fun, but younger kids or those who prefer walking might prefer other ways to explore.

The brewery stop adds a social element that makes it appealing for couples or friends traveling together. If you’re only interested in doing quick sightseeing, this might be a bit long for some, but the scenic stops and storytelling make it a worthwhile way to spend part of your day in Saint John.

For travelers looking to combine history, scenery, and local flavor into a manageable, engaging experience, this Saint John Highlights and History Cycling Tour offers a well-rounded snapshot of the city. It’s a chance to get some light exercise while learning stories that bring the area’s past and present to life. Plus, the inclusion of a beer stop at Moosehead adds a relaxed, authentic vibe that’s often praised by previous guests.

While it requires comfortable cycling skills and some willingness to climb hills, many find the overall experience rewarding and fun. With knowledgeable guides, a small group setting, and scenic routes, this tour hits just the right notes for those wanting to see Saint John in an active, memorable way.

Whether you’re a history buff, a casual rider, or someone wanting to enjoy local craft beer, this tour is worth considering—just be prepared for some hills and a bit of pedal-power.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people who can’t ride a bike?
No, participants need to be able to ride a bike, as it’s a cycling tour. If you’re not comfortable on a bike, this might not be the best fit.

What should I bring for the ride?
Bring comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing (like a light jacket or long-sleeved shirt if needed), and a reusable water bottle. Gloves are recommended in cooler months, and helmets are provided.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, covering various sites and including a stop at Moosehead Brewery.

Where do I meet the tour?
You meet at the Inside Out Nature Centre located inside Lily Lake Pavilion. Clear instructions are provided, and the location is accessible by taxi or bus.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers the guided cycling tour, a 16oz Moosehead beer, all taxes and fees, a helmet, and water bottles. Snacks are also provided.

Are the bikes suitable for different sizes?
Yes, the tour runs on hybrid bikes available in small, medium, and large sizes, with options for youth bikes if needed.

Is the tour flexible if I have special requests or bike needs?
Absolutely! The team is happy to accommodate bike size issues or source bikes from local shops if necessary—just reach out in advance.

In the end, if you’re after a lively, informative way to see Saint John, with a little exercise and a lot of local charm, this cycling tour could be just the thing. It’s a fun, friendly way to connect with the city’s history, enjoy scenic views, and unwind with a local brew—all in just three hours.

You can check availability for your dates here: