If you’re visiting Saint John, New Brunswick, and love the idea of combining a bit of exercise with a dose of local history and stunning scenery, this Saint John Highlights & History Cycling Tour might be just what you’re after. From the moment you start planning, you’ll notice how well-designed this experience is—offering a balanced mix of cultural insights, scenic views, and active fun.
What makes this tour stand out? First, you’re riding through some of Saint John’s most interesting sites with a knowledgeable guide who makes the stories come alive. Second, the stops at landmarks like the Reversing Falls Rapids and historic forts add a tangible sense of the city’s past and present.
However, keep in mind this isn’t a leisurely cruise—you should be comfortable with some hills and moderate physical activity. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a bit of active sightseeing and want a more engaging way to explore the city beyond a typical walking tour.
If you’re looking for a fun, informative, and energetic way to see Saint John’s key sights, this cycling tour could be a perfect fit. It’s especially appealing to those who appreciate local history, scenic landscapes, and a guide who’s passionate about sharing Saint John’s stories.
Key Points
- Balanced experience: Combines history, scenery, and activity in just three hours.
- Expert guides: Known for knowledgeable, friendly guides who enhance the tour.
- Scenic highlights: Includes iconic spots like Reversing Falls and historic forts.
- Physical activity: Expect some hills; a moderate fitness level helps.
- Price value: At around $85, offers a comprehensive look at Saint John.
- Small-group vibe: With a maximum of two travelers, it feels personalized.
We loved the way this tour mixes active sightseeing with storytelling. Cycling allows you to cover more ground than walking, making it easier to visit multiple spots in a short time, and the scenic routes provide plenty of photo opportunities. Plus, the guide’s enthusiasm and knowledge make the experience memorable—one reviewer described their guide as “phenomenal,” and from what we gather, that’s a common sentiment.
The tour’s focus on Saint John’s historical sites adds depth to the experience. You’ll cycle through the city’s rolling hills, passing by landmarks that tell stories of its past, from forts dating back to 1777 to the historic harbor. The experience at Reversing Falls Rapids, created by the interaction of the Bay of Fundy and the Saint John River, is especially captivating—watching kayaks navigate through the rapids is quite a sight.
Another highlight is the visit to Canada’s oldest brewery, Moosehead. Here, you can enjoy a drink with your guide and learn about the brewery’s long-standing history, which has been part of Saint John’s fabric since 1867. It’s a laid-back stop that adds a local flavor to the tour.
That said, this isn’t a tour for everyone. The cycling involves some hills, and the duration is just enough to give you a taste of Saint John’s highlights without feeling rushed. If you’re someone who prefers flat terrain or has limited mobility, it might be worth considering your comfort level before booking.
What to Expect from the Itinerary
Interested in history? Here are other past-focused experiences we've examined in Saint John
Rockwood Park: Starting Off in Nature
The tour kicks off at Rockwood Park, a sprawling 2,200-acre natural area with lakes and trails. While this is a scenic spot perfect for beginning, it also sets the tone for the active part of your day. If weather permits, this is where the adventure begins, and it’s free to enter. This park is a local favorite and offers a peaceful start before heading into the city.
Saint John City Streets: A Ride Through History
Next, you’ll explore the streets of Saint John itself, riding through rolling hills that reveal the city’s industrial and commercial roots. The guide will share stories of the businesses and industries that shaped this historic port. The cycling here is moderate, with some hills that will give your legs a workout—one reviewer mentioned their “quads will get a great workout,” which is true.
Fort Howe National Historic Site
Constructed in 1777 by the British, Fort Howe offers spectacular views of the harbor and river. Standing on this towering site, you get a real sense of its strategic importance in protecting the city during colonial times. Standing here, you can imagine the soldiers who once manned this fort, and the panoramic views are worth the short stop.
Reversing Falls Rapids: Nature’s Marvel
The site that most travelers rave about is the Reversing Falls Rapids. Created by the interaction of the Bay of Fundy’s tides and the Saint John River, this phenomenon varies throughout the day. During low tide, the river empties into the bay, causing rapid currents and a fascinating spectacle. Watching kayaks navigate these waters adds an exciting element, and many reviews describe it as a “great view” and a “spectacle.” It’s a must-see for anyone visiting Saint John.
Moosehead Small Batch Brewery
A highlight for many is the visit to Moosehead Brewery, Canada’s oldest brewery still in operation. Founded in 1867, it’s been a staple of Saint John’s community. The tour includes a tasting and an overview of the brewery’s history, which gives a local and authentic feel to your experience. One reviewer appreciated that the brewery is a longstanding part of the city’s life, making it more than just a quick stop.
Carleton Martello Tower & Harbour Passage
Further along, you’ll visit the Carleton Martello Tower, dating back to the War of 1812. It played a key role in conflicts through the 19th and 20th centuries. While the tower itself doesn’t include an admission fee, it’s a quick stop that offers a snippet of military history and great views.
The Harbour Passage trail connects different parts of the city, offering scenic lookouts and a chance to see local life along the waterfront. It’s a popular pathway for both pedestrians and cyclists, tying together the city’s historic and modern sides.
Place Fort LaTour
Finally, you’ll visit Place Fort LaTour, a historic gathering spot historically used for trade and celebrations. Although this stop doesn’t include an admission fee, it adds to your understanding of Saint John’s importance as a port and cultural hub.
From reviews, we see that guides make a big difference—many praise their friendliness, knowledge, and ability to handle varying paces, especially on hills. One reviewer mentioned, “Darren, our guide, was phenomenal,” highlighting how a good guide can really elevate the experience.
Participants also appreciated the flexible and accommodating nature of the tour company, especially when delays occurred. One reviewer’s ship was delayed, but the tour waited an hour and still took them out, which speaks volumes about their customer focus.
The pace is described as moderate, with some hills that might challenge those less accustomed to cycling but are manageable with a reasonable level of fitness. The bikes are hybrid—probably non-electric—so expect some effort uphill. The tour lasts roughly 3 hours, balancing enough time to see major sites without feeling rushed.
The small group size, capped at two travelers, makes the experience personal and allows the guide to tailor the tour if needed. It’s perfect for couples or friends who want a private, intimate outing.
Price & Value
At around $85 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive look at Saint John, especially considering the inclusion of a brewery stop and the personalized service. It’s a good value for travelers who want an active, culturally rich experience rather than a typical bus or walking tour.
Potential Downsides
While many reviews are glowing, some travelers noted the hills can be a workout, so if you’re not comfortable on uneven terrain or in hilly areas, this might not be your best pick. Also, weather can affect the tour—if it’s rainy or windy, the experience might be less enjoyable, but the tour does offer flexibility for rescheduling or full refunds if canceled due to weather.
This cycling tour is ideal for those who enjoy being active and want to see Saint John from a different perspective. History buffs, nature lovers, and anyone interested in local culture will find this tour engaging. It’s perfect for travelers who don’t mind some hills and are ready for a 3-hour adventure in the fresh air.
If you prefer flat terrain, shorter activities, or have limited mobility, you might want to consider other options. But for those craving a hands-on, personal experience that combines scenic views with storytelling, this tour hits the mark.
Saint John Highlights & History Cycling Tour
“Darren, our guide was phenomenal. We learned a ton of history about Saint John. Beautiful views of the reversing rapids, forts and waterfront. Ther…”
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for families with children?
This tour is best suited for individuals comfortable with moderate physical activity because of the hills and cycling duration. It’s not specifically designed for young children or those with mobility challenges.
Are the bikes e-bikes?
No, the bikes are hybrid bikes, not electric. Expect some effort on the hills, so bring your fitness or be prepared for a workout.
How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 3 hours, which includes multiple stops and riding time.
What’s included in the price?
The price of around $85 includes the bike rental and a stop at Moosehead Brewery for a tasting.
Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance. If canceled earlier, you get a full refund.
Is the tour group size small?
Yes, it’s limited to a maximum of two travelers, making for a more personalized experience.
What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Are guides knowledgeable?
Absolutely. Many reviews praise guides like Darren for their friendliness, knowledge, and helpfulness.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at Lily’s, located at 55 Lake Dr S, Saint John, NB.
The Saint John Highlights & History Cycling Tour offers a lively and engaging way to uncover the city’s stories and sights. It’s perfect for active travelers who want to experience Saint John beyond its surface, soaking in views and history while getting some exercise. The small-group vibe and knowledgeable guides make it a personalized outing that feels both fun and educational.
If you’re visiting Saint John and looking for a distinctive way to explore, this tour delivers a good mix of scenic beauty, local culture, and active fun. Just prepare for some hills and a moderate pace, and you’ll walk away with a greater appreciation for this historic Canadian port.
Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply eager to see Saint John from a new angle, this cycling adventure will give you plenty to talk about long after your wheels stop turning.