A red-brick building spanning an entire city block, Saint John City Market is the oldest farmers market in Canada, with dozens of purveyors offering everything from fish-and-chips to local breads, wine, and cheese. Located just blocks from the Bay of Fundy, the market is an ideal spot to explore St. John’s finest food offerings or grab lunch during a day of sightseeing.
The Basics
Most tours of Saint John include a stop at the Saint John City Market, whether you opt for a food-themed tour, city walking tour, or private guided tour. Tours of the broader Bay of Fundy area sometimes stop at the market and may also visit the fishing village of St. Martins, Reversing Falls Rapids, and local area wineries. For cruise ship passengers, most Saint John shore excursions include a stop at the city market.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Saint John City Market is a must-see for foodies and first-time visitors to the city.
- Free parking is available on smaller side streets near the building, while parking on King Street can be pricey.
- The market is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
How to Get There
The market is located at 47 Charlotte Street in downtown Saint John. You can arrive by guided tour, private vehicle, or Saint John Transit—the area’s public transportation system.
When to Get There
It’s possible to visit the Saint John City Market year-round, although produce may vary by season. On Saturdays, additional merchants—many boasting locally made crafts—join the usual vendor lineup, and a music series features popular local acts. The market is closed Sundays.
History of Saint John City Market
A designated National Historic Site of Canada, the Saint John City Market has a long and storied history. Two fires, in 1837 and 1841, reduced the market to rubble before the current incarnation opened in 1876. The building then survived the Great Fire of 1877, which razed the city of Saint John just a year after the market opened.
