Walking on Water – 90min Downtown St. Johns Tour

Join the "Walking on Water" tour for a captivating 90-minute exploration of downtown St. John’s. This wheelchair-accessible tour offers unique insights into the city’s past, from tales of Newfoundlanders’ bravery during WWI to the stories of memorable local characters. With flexible booking and free cancellation, it’s the perfect way to discover the rich history and vibrant culture of this historic locale. Get ready to uncover the fascinating stories that lie beneath the streets of St. John’s.

About Your Stay

• 90-minute guided walking tour exploring the rich history and landmarks of downtown St. John’s, the capital city of Newfoundland and Labrador.
• Highlights include the historic Water Street, the city’s vibrant past as a major fishing hub, and the heroic story of the Newfoundland Regiment in WWI.
• Tour is accessible for wheelchair users and conducted in English, providing insights into the enduring resilience and entrepreneurial spirit of Newfoundlanders.
• Flexible booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for convenient planning.
• Tour features entertaining tales of local legends, such as Scoff, Aunt Becky, and the notorious pirate Captain Kidd, offering a glimpse into the city’s vibrant culture.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Walking on Water tour provides a 90-minute walking exploration of downtown St. John’s.

A 90-minute walking exploration of downtown St. John’s, taking visitors on a captivating journey through the city’s rich history.

Priced from $27.12 per person, the tour is accessible for wheelchair users and conducted in English.

Lasting 1.5 hours, the experience offers insights into the city’s rich history, including the story of 10 Newfoundlanders who held off 400 German soldiers in World War I.

Visitors can also discover the site of the world’s first remote-control cornerstone laying and hear tales of memorable Newfoundland characters.

Booking is flexible, with the option to reserve now and pay later, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Booking Information

Customers can reserve their spot on the Walking on Water tour and pay nothing today.

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Customers can check availability for starting times:

1. Reserve now & pay later: Book your spot and pay nothing today.

2. Free cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

3. Check availability for starting times.

This booking flexibility allows customers to conveniently plan their tour experience without upfront costs or penalties for changes.

The tour’s accessibility and inclusive nature make it suitable for everyone.

Historical Significance of Water Street

Water Street in St. John’s is possibly the oldest continuously operating commercial street in North America.

It has held historical significance as the center of life and commerce since European arrival in the region. For centuries, Water Street was the heart of one of the world’s largest fisheries. It was the epicenter of activity, bustling with merchants, fishermen, and traders.

Today, the street maintains its charming, historic character, offering visitors a glimpse into the city’s vibrant past. Its enduring legacy reflects the resilience and entrepreneurial spirit that have defined Newfoundland for generations.

Newfoundlanders’ Heroic Feat in WWI

During World War I, a small group of Newfoundlanders demonstrated extraordinary bravery and resilience.

These brave soldiers held off 400 German troops, despite being heavily outnumbered.

The tour highlights three key details about this heroic feat:

1. The Newfoundlanders were members of the Newfoundland Regiment, a unit that suffered heavy casualties at the Battle of the Somme.

2. They were able to successfully defend their position for several hours, inflicting significant losses on the German forces.

3. This remarkable achievement underscores the courage and determination of the Newfoundland soldiers during the Great War.

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Remote-Control Cornerstone Laying

While on the tour, visitors will have the opportunity to learn about the site of the first remote-control cornerstone laying in the world.

In 1903, a cornerstone for the Orange Lodge was laid using a remote control device – a technological marvel at the time. Spectators watched in awe as the cornerstone was precisely positioned without any physical human interaction.

This innovative feat highlighted Newfoundland’s pioneering spirit and the community’s embrace of new technologies.

Today, the site remains a testament to the ingenuity and progress that defined St. John’s at the turn of the century.

Memorable Newfoundland Characters

Along With the impressive technological feat of the remote-control cornerstone laying, the tour also shares entertaining tales of memorable Newfoundland characters.

Visitors learn about:

1. Scoff, a local legend known for his unparalleled ability to consume food and drink.

2. "Aunt" Becky, a former fishwife famous for her quick wit and colorful language.

3. Captain Kidd, a notorious pirate rumored to have buried his treasure somewhere in the region.

These larger-than-life personalities provide a glimpse into the vibrant culture and history that has shaped St. John’s over the centuries.

Meeting Point and Directions

Where can you find the meeting point for the Walking on Water Tour? Look for your guide with a yellow flag near the Water Street entrance to the park.

This easily identifiable meeting point is conveniently located and open to all. Simply search for the guide’s yellow flag close to the Water Street park entrance to join the tour.

Google Maps also provides directions to the starting location, making it simple to find your way.

With clear signage and a central meeting spot, embarking on the Walking on Water Tour is straightforward and accessible for all participants.

What to Expect on the Tour

On the Walking on Water Tour, participants can expect an accessible and engaging exploration of St. John’s rich history.

The 1.5-hour walking tour highlights:

1. Fascinating tales of memorable Newfoundland characters and the city’s significance as the center of life and commerce since European arrival.

2. The site of the first remote-control cornerstone laying in the world and the story of 10 Newfoundlanders who held off 400 German soldiers in WWI.

3. Water Street, possibly the oldest continuously operating commercial street in North America.

Throughout the tour, the guide provides a short introduction to St. John’s, making it suitable for everyone, including those in wheelchairs.

Questions About Your Stay

Will the Tour Run in Inclement Weather?

The tour will run in inclement weather, as it is an accessible walking tour suitable for everyone. The guide will adapt the experience to ensure guests stay comfortable and safe during the tour.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Participants are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand, as some may have restrictions or recommendations to enhance the overall experience.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities Along the Tour Route?

The tour route does not have dedicated restroom facilities, but there are public restrooms available at various shops and restaurants along Water Street that participants can use during the tour. It’s recommended to plan accordingly.

How Much Walking Is Involved, and Is It Suitable for All Fitness Levels?

The tour involves about 1.5 miles of walking at a leisurely pace. It’s suitable for most fitness levels, though some mobility may be required to navigate uneven terrain. The guide can accommodate guests with accessibility needs.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

The tour offers discounted prices for seniors and students. Seniors receive a 10% discount, while students can enjoy a 15% reduction in the standard tour price. These discounts make the tour more accessible to a wider range of visitors.

Final Verdict On This Stay

The "Walking on Water" tour provides a captivating 90-minute exploration of downtown St. John’s, uncovering the city’s rich history and vibrant culture. Priced at just $27.12 per person, this wheelchair-accessible tour offers unique insights into Newfoundlanders’ bravery during WWI and memorable local characters. With flexible booking and free cancellation, it’s an easy way to plan an adventure in this historic locale.

You can check availability for your dates here: