Area 506 Waterfront Container Village
A vibrant waterfront marketplace in Saint John, NB, featuring unique shops and eateries housed in colorful shipping containers.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Lively atmosphere & more vendors
Area 506 Waterfront Container Village
Best Time
Lively atmosphere & more vendors
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant waterfront marketplace in Saint John, NB, featuring unique shops and eateries housed in colorful shipping containers.
"This place is cute to explore, with a good variety of souvenirs and handmade items."
🛍️ Shop Local Treasures
Discover unique handmade goods and souvenirs from over 30 local vendors.
🚢 Cruise Ship Impact
Expect crowds when cruise ships dock; it's a prime spot for passengers.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Colorful Container Shops
Throughout the village
Explore unique boutiques and artisan stalls housed in vibrant shipping containers, each with its own personality.
Local Artisan Finds
Various vendor containers
Discover handmade goods, local crafts, souvenirs, and unique treats from New Brunswick's talented creators.
Waterfront Views & Dining
Upper deck and eateries
Enjoy delicious food and drinks with stunning views of the Bay of Fundy and the historic Saint John waterfront.
Graffiti Art & Atmosphere
Throughout the village
Admire the vibrant graffiti art adorning the containers, adding a lively and artistic flair to the village.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Waterfront Vibe
Cruise Ship Crowds & Hours
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🛍️ Shop Local Treasures
Discover unique handmade goods and souvenirs from over 30 local vendors. 
🚢 Cruise Ship Impact
Expect crowds when cruise ships dock; it's a prime spot for passengers.
📅 Check Event Schedules
Look for live music, trivia, and festivals to enhance your visit. +1
♿ Wheelchair Accessible
The village is designed to be accessible for all visitors.
Tips
from all over the internet
🛍️ Shop Local Treasures
Discover unique handmade goods and souvenirs from over 30 local vendors.
🚢 Cruise Ship Impact
Expect crowds when cruise ships dock; it's a prime spot for passengers.
📅 Check Event Schedules
Look for live music, trivia, and festivals to enhance your visit. +1
♿ Wheelchair Accessible
The village is designed to be accessible for all visitors.
🎨 Admire Container Art
Enjoy the colorful graffiti and unique designs on the shipping containers.
🍻 Local Brews & Bites
Sip on local craft beers and enjoy diverse food options with waterfront views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Area 506 Waterfront Container Village for its unique concept, vibrant atmosphere, and diverse local vendors. The colorful shipping container architecture and waterfront location are consistently highlighted as major draws. While some find prices a bit high, the overall experience is described as fun, energetic, and a great way to discover local treasures.
"This place is cute to explore. We were here when a cruise ship was in Port so there was a good crowd exploring the shops. Found some of the shops to be quite expensive but definitely fun to look at. A good variety of souvenirs and handmade items. Loved the graffiti decorated containers. Can't speak to the eateries but seemed like a good variety and options to sit."
Emily Burtnik
"Cool place to stop when you get off your cruise ship. It's within walking distance. You would think it stays open later during the weekends for the locals but it doesn't seem that way. Good way to make use of shipping containers. I also noticed they have a space for Cruise ship staff to chill so they're not forced to congregate with the passengers."
GeminiPearl Travel & Notary Services
"Loved the outdoor shopping experience! The area is full of unique shops with something for everyone, from handmade goods to quirky finds. The atmosphere was colorful, fun, and full of energy—perfect for a casual stroll and some great browsing. A must-visit if you enjoy discovering local treasures in a lively setting!"
Jessica
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Area 506 Waterfront Container Village is conveniently located at 85 Water Street in uptown Saint John, New Brunswick. It's within walking distance from the cruise ship terminal, making it an easy stop for visitors.
While specific parking details can vary, uptown Saint John offers several parking options. It's recommended to check local parking garages or street parking availability upon arrival.
Yes, Area 506 Waterfront Container Village is located near Market Square, making it easily accessible by foot for those exploring the waterfront area.
The village is a prominent feature on the Saint John waterfront, easily identifiable by its colorful shipping containers. Follow the signs for the waterfront attractions.
Exploring the waterfront on foot is highly recommended to fully appreciate the Area 506 Container Village and its surroundings.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, there is no admission fee to enter the Area 506 Waterfront Container Village itself. However, specific events or concerts held at the venue may require tickets.
Operating hours can vary, especially for individual vendors. It's advisable to check the official Area 506 website or social media for the most up-to-date hours, particularly for weekend evenings.
No, there are no entrance fees to browse the shops within the Area 506 Waterfront Container Village. You only pay for any purchases you make.
The container village is primarily a seasonal attraction, with its peak activity during the warmer months. Check their schedule for specific opening dates and times.
Absolutely! The village is designed as a marketplace and destination for casual exploration, even if you're not attending a ticketed event.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
You'll find a diverse range of local vendors selling everything from handmade crafts, souvenirs, and artisanal foods to clothing and unique gifts. +1
Yes, the village features various food trucks and eateries offering a good variety of snacks and meals.
Definitely! Area 506 is a showcase for local New Brunswick businesses, so you can find many regional products and specialties. +1
Some visitors find certain items to be on the pricier side, but there's a wide range of goods, including unique handmade items that reflect their value.
Visitors often enjoy local craft beers from breweries like Graystone Brewing and Loyalist City Brewing Co., as well as treats from vendors like Beavertails.
📸 📸 Photography & Vibe
Absolutely! The colorful containers, graffiti art, and waterfront views make it a very photogenic location.
The atmosphere is vibrant, colorful, and energetic, especially when cruise ships are in port or during events. It's a lively place for a casual stroll. +1
Yes, the village is situated on the waterfront, offering scenic views of the Bay of Fundy and the Saint John River.
Yes, the graffiti art is a key feature of the village and is encouraged for photos.
Its unique design using repurposed shipping containers to house local businesses creates a distinctive and modern waterfront marketplace.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1With a variety of food options, including snacks and casual eateries, it's easy to find something to please picky eaters. The wheelchair accessibility also means strollers can navigate the village with ease. It's a great spot for a casual outing where everyone can find something to enjoy.
🚢 Cruise Ship Passengers
+1You'll find a concentrated selection of local crafts, souvenirs, and eateries here, perfect for a quick browse or a leisurely meal. The vibrant atmosphere and unique container architecture make it a memorable stop during your port day. Be aware that it can get quite busy when a ship is in.
🛍️ Shoppers Seeking Local Goods
+1This is your chance to support local entrepreneurs and find one-of-a-kind items. Take your time browsing each container to discover the diverse talent that New Brunswick has to offer. It's a fantastic alternative to generic souvenir shops.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Architecture: Shipping Containers Reimagined
+2This architectural choice creates a dynamic and visually engaging environment. Visitors can wander through narrow pathways, discovering hidden gems within each colorful unit. The arrangement of containers allows for a compact yet expansive feel, making it easy to explore on foot. The waterfront location further enhances the experience, offering picturesque views that complement the urban design.
+1The concept has been praised for revitalizing the waterfront and providing a platform for local entrepreneurs. It's a testament to creative urban development, turning functional industrial elements into an attractive tourist destination. The variety of vendors housed within these containers ensures there's something for everyone, from artisanal crafts to delicious local food.
+1A Hub for Local Artisans and Entrepreneurs
+1Visitors often rave about the opportunity to discover unique, locally-made products that they wouldn't find elsewhere. Meeting the makers and learning about their craft adds a personal touch to the shopping experience. This focus on local talent is a significant draw, transforming the village into a destination for authentic finds and supporting the community.
The village also serves as a venue for events and live entertainment, further boosting its role as a community hub. From trivia nights to concerts, these events draw crowds and create a lively atmosphere, making Area 506 more than just a marketplace, but a vibrant social destination.
Experiencing the Saint John Waterfront
+1Beyond the shopping and dining, the waterfront itself provides a refreshing backdrop. Visitors can enjoy the sea breeze, watch the tides, and soak in the maritime ambiance. The upper deck of the container village offers particularly good vantage points for enjoying a drink or a meal while taking in the scenery.
This area is a key part of Saint John's revitalization efforts, transforming the waterfront into a dynamic destination. The combination of unique architecture, local commerce, and scenic beauty makes the Area 506 Container Village an integral part of the Saint John waterfront experience.
+1
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit