Saint John Driving Tour With Skywalk, Martello Tower & Fort

Discover Saint John on a Mini-Adventure: A Comprehensive Review

If you’re looking to squeeze a taste of Saint John’s charm into a few hours, the Saint John Driving Tour with Skywalk, Martello Tower, and Fort offers an engaging way to see the city’s highlights without feeling rushed. This small-group experience is designed for travelers eager to explore local history, natural wonders, and iconic sights—all in a compact, well-paced tour.

What caught our eye? First, the personalized attention from a guide limited to just six guests ensures a relaxed, insightful experience. Then, the diverse itinerary includes cultural landmarks, scenic views, and a chance to learn about Saint John’s unique tidal phenomena. Lastly, the option to upgrade with a jetboat ride opens the door to experiencing the famous Reversing Falls Rapids—a memorable highlight for adrenaline junkies.

However, it’s worth noting that this tour works best in good weather, especially if you opt for the boat cruise, which isn’t available during off-season months. Overall, it’s ideal for history buffs, nature lovers, or anyone wanting a well-rounded introduction to Saint John in a short time.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know:

• Intimate Group Size: Small groups of up to 6 travelers ensure personalized attention.
• Rich Cultural and Natural Highlights: Includes city market, historic sites, and scenic views.
• Flexible Experience: Options to include a jetboat ride for added adventure.
• Comprehensive 3-Hour Format: Efficiently covers major attractions without feeling rushed.
• Expert Local Guide: Knowledgeable guides, often passionate and personable, enhance the experience.
• Great Value: At $85, it offers a detailed introduction to Saint John that feels worthwhile.

An In-Depth Look at the Saint John Driving Tour

The Perfect Introduction to Saint John

This tour is ideal if your time in Saint John is limited but you still want to get a true sense of what makes this city special. The pickup at your hotel sets a welcoming tone, with transport provided in a comfortable van. The small group size means you won’t be lost in a crowd, making it easier to ask questions and get tailored insight.

Starting at the City Market

The tour begins at the historic City Market, which dates back to the 1870s. Here, you’ll have the chance to browse a lively array of vendors offering everything from fresh local produce to crafts. Reviewers note that the market itself is a highlight, especially for those interested in local flavors and artisanal goods. One guest appreciated being able to explore this iconic spot with a guide who could point out hidden gems and give context about its history.

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Scenic Drive Through Saint John

Next, you’ll settle into the van for a narrated drive around the city’s most notable sites. This part of the tour is about appreciating the city’s blend of history, natural beauty, and modern life. Highlights include:

• Rockwood Park: A green oasis nestled in the city where you might stop for photos or a quick look around.
• Saint John Port & Uptown: These bustling areas reveal the city’s maritime roots and vibrant urban culture.
• King Square: A central spot, often accompanied by stories about local history.

The narration is lively and informative, with guides sharing stories about the city’s past and present. Multiple reviews mention guides like Russ, who is praised for being personable, knowledgeable, and even skilled at photography—perfect for snapping memorable shots during the tour.

Historical Landmarks: Martello Tower & Fort La Tour

Two major stops focus on Saint John’s military and trading past:

• Carleton Martello Tower: Built in 1812, this well-preserved structure offers sweeping views over the city, harbor, and skyline. Visitors appreciate the chance to step into history while enjoying panoramic vistas. One traveler remarked that the guide’s explanation of the tower’s role added depth to the visit.

• Fort La Tour: A Canadian National Historic Site, this archaeological site contains the remains of a 17th-century fur trading post. It’s a fascinating glimpse into early colonial life and commerce, especially for history enthusiasts.

Optional Jetboat Experience: Reversing Falls Rapids

For those wanting a dash of adventure, the tour can be upgraded to include a jetboat ride through the famous Reversing Falls Rapids. This natural phenomenon occurs because of the tide’s influence on the Saint John River, creating a spectacle of rapid water flow that’s both dramatic and photogenic. Although weather-dependent and not available in the off-season, the reviews show that many travelers find this addition to be well worth it, especially with guides who are attentive and enthusiastic.

Concluding the Tour and Returns

After a busy 3 hours, the guide will return you to your hotel or designated drop-off point. The entire experience balances sightseeing with storytelling, making it suitable whether you want a quick overview or a meaningful glimpse into Saint John’s culture and history.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Authentic Local Insights: Guides like Russ or Shers bring a personal touch, sharing stories you won’t find in guidebooks. Many reviews praise their friendliness, knowledge, and photography skills—helping you capture beautiful moments along the way.

Diverse Attractions in One Package: From the historic City Market to scenic vistas at Martello Tower, and the lively Uptown area, the tour packs a lot into three hours. The optional jetboat ride, weather permitting, adds an extra layer of excitement.

Comfort and Convenience: Pickup from your hotel and a small group size mean less waiting and more personalized attention. Plus, the narration and commentary make the ride feel both fun and educational.

Value for Money: Priced at $85, this tour offers a comprehensive snapshot of Saint John—especially considering the inclusion of several key landmarks and the potential for an adrenaline-filled boat ride. It’s a great way to get your bearings before exploring more on your own.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience appeals to a wide range of travelers. History buffs will love learning about Saint John’s military and trading past at the Martello Tower and Fort La Tour. Nature lovers will enjoy the views from the lookout points and the chance to see the Reversing Falls Rapids in action. Photographers, especially those with a keen eye for landscapes and cityscapes, will appreciate guides like Russ who are eager to help capture the perfect shot.

It’s also perfect for visitors with limited time, as it packs many highlights into a manageable three hours. However, those seeking a more in-depth or adventurous experience might want to consider longer or more specialized tours.

Practical Details and Tips

• Duration: 3 hours, generally available in the morning or afternoon.
• Price: $85 per person, offering good value given the range of sights.
• Group Size: Limited to 6 guests for a more intimate experience.
• Includes: Hotel pickup/drop-off, transportation, guide, and narration. Also includes a walking tour of the City Market and visits to key landmarks.
• Not Included: Food or drinks—consider grabbing a snack at the market beforehand.
• Weather considerations: The jetboat ride depends on weather and season, so check availability locally.

What to bring: Comfortable footwear for walking, weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera or smartphone for photos.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable if I only have a few hours in Saint John?
Absolutely. It’s designed to give you a quick but thorough look at the city’s key attractions in just three hours.

What does the tour include?
It includes hotel pickup, transportation, a guide with live commentary, a walking tour of the City Market, and visits to Martello Tower and Fort La Tour. You can also opt for a jetboat ride.

How many people are in a group?
The tour is limited to 6 participants, making it intimate and flexible for questions and personalized attention.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your schedule shifts.

Is the jetboat ride weather dependent?
Yes, the boat cruise is weather-dependent and won’t operate in the off-season or poor conditions.

What should I wear?
Bring comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing given the outdoor and walking components.

Is this tour good for families?
While not explicitly marketed as a family tour, the manageable pace and engaging sights make it suitable for families with older children.

Do I need to prepare anything before the tour?
Just be ready for a scenic, informative ride and bring your camera. No special preparations needed beyond comfortable clothing.

Final Thoughts

For those eager to experience Saint John’s charm without investing an entire day, this small-group driving tour offers a balanced blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty. The personalized guidance, combined with stops at iconic landmarks and optional adventure upgrades, makes it a flexible and rewarding introduction to the city.

It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who appreciate storytelling, enjoy photography, and prefer a relaxed pace with plenty of local insights. While weather can influence some parts of the experience, the core attractions are compelling enough to justify the modest price.

If your goal is to get a meaningful glimpse of Saint John in a short window, this tour delivers a thoughtful, engaging, and well-organized experience that stays true to its promise of showcasing the city’s best.

In summary, this tour is an excellent choice for first-time visitors, history enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a snapshot of Saint John’s highlights in a friendly, intimate setting. Pack your curiosity and camera, and prepare to see Saint John through the eyes of a local guide who’s eager to share its stories.

You can check if your dates are available here: