Reversing Falls Rapids
#1 in Best Things To Do in Saint John, New Brunswick
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2 of 2Price & Hours
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- 0.0Food Scene
- 4.5Atmosphere
Sitting just 2 miles southwest of uptown Saint John, the Reversing Falls Rapids are a must-see destination in New Brunswick. Here's what makes this natural site such an anomaly: Its gurgling whirlpools, impressive rapids and small waterfalls flow one way with the incoming tide and another with the outgoing tide. You can watch the churning water from one of several rooftop viewing areas in Fallsview and Wolastoq parks.
Although some previous travelers lamented the charge attached to viewing the rapids from the Reversing Falls Restaurant's observation deck, others were quick to recommend visiting the other platforms, which are free to access. For an adrenaline rush, consider paying for a zip lining excursion with Saint John Adventures. Zip line rates vary depending on the time of year.
The rapids are viewable 24 hours a day throughout the year. To see them from the Reversing Falls Restaurant, expect to pay 8 to 15 Canadian dollars (or $6 to $11) per person between May 18 and Oct. 31, and CA$7 (about $5) per person during the offseason. Parking is free at Fallsview and Wolastoq parks, or you can ride the No. 1 bus to the Bridge Road stop. Learn more about the rapids by visiting Discover Saint John's Reversing Falls Rapids page.
More Best Things To Do in Saint John, New Brunswick
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2 of 12#2 Irving Nature Park
If you don't feel like trekking all the way to Fundy National Park, you'll find excellent views of the bay just 5 miles southwest of uptown Saint John at Irving Nature Park. Occupying a narrow peninsula, this 600-acre green space features breathtaking Bay of Fundy vistas, not to mention a variety of habitats, such as a forest, a salt marsh estuary, beaches and a bog. You can explore all the park has to offer by following its boardwalk and eight hiking trails. This is also a great place for wildlife lovers: Irving Nature Park is home to more than 250 species of birds, while maritime mammals like whales are often spotted offshore.
Even if you're not much of a hiker, visitors recommend spending at least some time at the park's observation deck to watch the area's wild seals. The park is also a great spot for families: In addition to hosting free interactive activities like building bee houses and stargazing tea parties, Irving Nature Park offers the Children's Forest, where you'll find a playground and mazes. On warmer days, travelers suggest heading to the park for a picnic. Complimentary barbecue grills are available to use.
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