Outdoor Family Fun

January 17, 2026


The weather may be cooler, but the fun doesn’t have to stop! Whether you’re looking for low-key leisure or active adventure, the Saint John Region is sure to keep the whole family entertained this winter.

Looking for inspiration? Follow this sample 2-day itinerary or build your own with our trip planner.

Day One

Morning

Bundle up and head to Rockwood Park to enjoy some winter fun! Rent a pair of snowshoes from Inside Out Nature Centre and hit the trails. Lace-up your skates and hit the ice (conditions permitting). Grab a sled or toboggan and take advantage of the great hills available. You’re sure to find an activity the whole family will enjoy, and your morning will go by in a flash.

Lunch

Warm up and fuel up after your adventure with lunch at Lily’s Lakeside Casual Dining – warm drinks and a kids’ menu are available!

Afternoon

Head uptown and stop in at the Saint John City Market to pick up a copy of the Little Explorer’s Guide from our Welcome Centre (or download and print off your own copy in advance here). Use the guide to explore uptown Saint John – can you complete the photo scavenger hunt or a line in Bay of Fundy Bingo?

While you’re wandering around, take some time to explore the shops and stores of uptown. Check out the toys and games at Paddington Station; grab a sweet treat at the Sugar Spider; let older kids find something unique at Heroes Beacon or Obscurity.

For a late afternoon snack and a break from exploring, stop for ice cream at Bella’s (yes, even on a cold day – we promise you won’t be disappointed), or a snack from Catapult Coffee.

Dinner

Finish the day off with dinner at any of the restaurants uptown – Cask & Kettle, Vito’s, or Pomodorri’s Pizza are great kid-approved options.

Day Two

Morning

Walk along the Harbour Passage Trail and explore the phenomenon of the Reversing Falls Rapids! Watch the tidal action from the trail lookout or Fallsview Park, or head up the Skywalk and capture stunning winter views from above. We promise, this is an experience you won't find anywhere else on Earth! Note: for the best possible experience, be sure to check the Tide Tables before you go. The Reversing Falls phenomenon is best viewed at high or low tide, when the water is most active, with rapids, whirlpools, and white water.

Lunch

After your morning adventure, jump in the car and head out to Rothesay for a bite to eat before your next adventure. Mexi’s, Amici’s, or Big D’s Poutine are all great options, with menu items for even the pickiest of eaters.

Afternoon

After lunch, jump onto the Gondola Point Ferry to cross from Quispamsis over to the Kingston Peninsula. From there, it’s only a short drive to Elmhurst Outdoors. Take advantage of their ski or snowshoe rentals and spend the afternoon exploring the beautiful trail system of the Fundy Rural District. If interested, instructors are available for ski lessons by appointment. When you’re done exploring, head back to the Elmhurst lodge for a hot drink, cookies, or soup.

Dinner

A long afternoon exploring calls for a great dinner to finish off the day. On your way back to the city, stop into Hampton for dinner at Red Brick Oasis or Berc’s Cookhouse.

Ready to plan your visit?

Click HERE for a list of accommodations.

Click HERE to explore additional things to do, like indoor rock climbing, arcades, and family entertainment.

Click HERE for a full list of local restaurants.

Click HERE for even more outdoor adventure options.

Click HERE to see events happening during your visit.

Land acknowledgement

The Saint John Region is situated on the traditional territory of the Wolastoqiyik, Mi’Kmaq, and Peskotomuhkati Nations. This territory is covered by Peace and Friendship Treaties signed with the British Crown in the 1700s. The treaties recognized the significant and meaningful role of the Wolastoqiyik, Mi’Kmaq, and Peskotomuhkati in this province and the country with the intent to establish a relationship of trust and friendship.

Envision Saint John: The Regional Growth Agency pays respect to the elders, past and present, and descendants of this land, and is committed to moving forward in the spirit of truth, collaboration, and reconciliation.