Market Square Boardwalk - Image 1
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Market Square Boardwalk Saint John

4.2
·850 reviews·Saint John, Canada

A vibrant hub on Saint John's waterfront, blending shops, dining, and the NB Museum with scenic boardwalk views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekends & Evenings

Lively atmosphere, events

CrowdMedium
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Market Square Boardwalk - Image 1

Market Square Boardwalk Saint John

Best Time

Weekends & Evenings

Lively atmosphere, events

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vibrant hub on Saint John's waterfront, blending shops, dining, and the NB Museum with scenic boardwalk views.

4.2
(850 reviews)

"A great way to enjoy Saint John with friends and family, especially when events are on!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Explore Uptown First

Uptown is the heart of activity with great food, museums, and shops. Don't miss it!

📅 Check for Events

Events make the Boardwalk even better! Look for markets or festivals to enhance your visit.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

NB Museum at Market Square

NB Museum at Market Square

Market Square

Dive into local history and culture at this well-regarded museum, a must-visit for history buffs.

Uptown Dining Scene

Uptown Dining Scene

Uptown Saint John

Explore a diverse range of restaurants, bars, and cafes offering local flavors and international cuisine.

Waterfront Boardwalk

Waterfront Boardwalk

Saint John Waterfront

Enjoy scenic walks along the newly developed waterfront spaces, perfect for relaxation and people-watching.

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Planning Your Visit

Uptown Exploration is Key

Most visitors recommend heading 'Uptown' for the best experience. This area is packed with restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions like the NB Museum. Plan to spend ample time exploring this vibrant hub.

Check Event Schedules

The Boardwalk truly comes alive during events. Before your visit, check for any festivals, markets, or performances happening to maximize your enjoyment and experience the lively atmosphere.

Best Times

When
Weekends & Evenings
Why
Lively atmosphere, events
Crowd
Medium
When
May to September
Why
Best weather for walks
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

We simply went downtown for dinner and experienced the best and most unexpected night. As we walked out of dinner, we heard Christian music playing in market square. As we passed by, we stopped and listened. I have lived in Knoxville my entire life and I have never seen this happen in the middle of downtown. We saw people unapologetically worshipping, people giving their lives to Jesus, and prayer...
@alli.mash
4.8K likes • 32.2K views

🎯 Explore Uptown First

Uptown is the heart of activity with great food, museums, and shops. Don't miss it! Reddit

📅 Check for Events

Events make the Boardwalk even better! Look for markets or festivals to enhance your visit. Reddit

🕯️Cultural Celebration: Día De Los Muertos 📍@marketsquaresa 📆 Oct. 25 + 26 | 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. ✨Las Monas Cultural Dance Procession, a mesmerizing display of dance and storytelling will take place both days from 1 p.m. - 2 p.m. #marketsquare #thingstodosanantonio #visitsanantonio #diademuertos #VisitSanAntonio
@visitsanantonio
4.4K likes • 52.3K views
☀️ Strolling the Saint John boardwalk? Make it even better with a stop at The Write Cup! Just steps away inside Market Square, we're the perfect spot to cool off with a refreshing iced latte or coffee. ☕❄️ 📍 Local vibes, waterfront views, and your favourite brew what more could you need? #SaintJohnNB #MarketSquareSJ #BoardwalkVibes #IcedLatteSeason #TheWriteCup #CoffeeBreak #SupportLocalNB #Wate...
tristan.sheard
23 likes • 976 views

🏛️ Visit the NB Museum

Located at Market Square, it's a fantastic spot for history and culture enthusiasts. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Enjoy Waterfront Walks

The newly built waterfront parks offer lovely spaces for a relaxing stroll. Reddit

Buskers on the Boardwalk are back all weekend! Market Square is buzzing — restaurants, bars, and free family entertainment from morning ‘til night. Grab your friends, bring the kids, and come be part of the magic on the waterfront! #SaintJohn #BuskersOnTheBoardwalk #MarketSquare
dondarlingsj
38 likes • 1.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Explore Uptown First

Uptown is the heart of activity with great food, museums, and shops. Don't miss it! Reddit

📅 Check for Events

Events make the Boardwalk even better! Look for markets or festivals to enhance your visit. Reddit

🏛️ Visit the NB Museum

Located at Market Square, it's a fantastic spot for history and culture enthusiasts. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Enjoy Waterfront Walks

The newly built waterfront parks offer lovely spaces for a relaxing stroll. Reddit

☕ Relax in the Food Court

Plenty of seating and a central fountain make the food court a great spot for a break. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.2
(850 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Market Square Boardwalk is a pleasant spot for relaxation and exploration, especially when events are on. Visitors appreciate the variety of shops, dining options, and the visually appealing interior with its fountain and artwork. While some find it quiet on off-days, its proximity to the New Brunswick Museum and the scenic waterfront walks make it a worthwhile stop, particularly for cruise ship passengers.

"Lots of places to eat, lovely walks and if there are events on its even better, a great way to enjoy Saint John with friends and family."

Mark Saunders

"Nice local strip mall. But it's pretty dead on Monday when I was there. Interestingly, the library is inside this mall as well. There seem to be a lot of nice outdoor parks in the waterfront spaces that are newly built, so I look forward to visiting when they are operational."

Michael Wu PhD

"Market Square is a lovely place to relax and unwind. The variety of shops offers good merchandise at decent prices, making it enjoyable to browse. The fountain in the center of the main floor adds a nice touch, and there are plenty of chairs and tables in the food court area, perfect for a meal or a break. I also appreciated the artwork scattered throughout the Square, which adds to its charm. The food court features a few restaurants, and the public library, open Tuesday to Saturday, is a great resource. Plus, the spa offers a range of services, including massage therapy and skincare. Overall, it’s a cozy and inviting space!"

Navpreet Kaur

What People Like

Variety of shops and eateries
Scenic waterfront walks
Visually appealing interior

What People Dislike

Can be quiet on weekdays

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Market Square is located in the heart of Saint John's uptown. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Public transportation options also serve the uptown area. Many visitors arrive via cruise ship and find it a convenient stop right at the port. Reddit

Yes, there are several parking options available near Market Square. Check for public lots and street parking in the uptown area. Reddit

If you are staying in the uptown area, Market Square is very walkable. For those coming from further afield, consider local bus routes. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Market Square itself is a public space and generally free to enter. However, individual shops, restaurants, and attractions within or near Market Square will have their own admission fees or costs. Reddit

Market Square has a variety of businesses, so hours can vary. The public library, for example, is open Tuesday to Saturday. It's best to check the specific hours for any shops or attractions you plan to visit. Reddit

For general access to Market Square and its common areas, no advance booking is required. If you plan to visit specific attractions like the NB Museum, it's advisable to check their individual booking policies. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Market Square offers a variety of shops, from local boutiques to stores with good merchandise at decent prices. You can also find a spa offering massage therapy and skincare services. Reddit

Yes, Market Square has a food court with several restaurants, including popular spots like Barred Rock Chicken & Poutine. There are also many other dining options in the surrounding Uptown area. Reddit

Absolutely! The Boardwalk and surrounding areas are great for families, with plenty of space to walk, relax, and enjoy the waterfront. Events often held here are also family-oriented. Reddit

Beyond shopping and dining, you can visit the New Brunswick Museum, relax by the fountain, enjoy the artwork scattered throughout, or utilize the public library. The waterfront spaces offer pleasant walks. Reddit

The tiered design and escalators suggest good accessibility. The waterfront spaces are also newly built, likely with accessibility in mind. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the waterfront views, the tiered interior with its decorations, stonework, and fountains. The central fountain and any artwork are also great subjects. Reddit

Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, can offer beautiful lighting for waterfront shots. Daytime provides good visibility for the interior architecture and fountains. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Market Square and its Boardwalk are great for families. The open waterfront spaces are perfect for kids to explore, and the general atmosphere is welcoming. The New Brunswick Museum offers engaging exhibits that can entertain children interested in history. Reddit

When visiting, consider checking for any family-friendly events happening at the Boardwalk, as these can add an extra layer of fun. The food court provides convenient dining options, and the ample seating allows for easy breaks. The visual appeal of the interior, with its fountains and decorations, can also capture children's attention. Reddit

🍽️ Foodies and Drink Enthusiasts

Uptown Saint John, with Market Square at its heart, is a culinary hotspot. You'll find a wide array of restaurants catering to diverse tastes, from casual eateries to more upscale dining experiences. Don't miss trying local specialties and craft beverages. Reddit

Within Market Square itself, the food court offers quick and tasty options, with Barred Rock Chicken & Poutine being a notable mention. However, venturing slightly beyond the Square into Uptown will open up even more possibilities for exploring Saint John's vibrant food and drink scene. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Uptown Saint John

Uptown Saint John is consistently recommended as the prime area to explore, and Market Square is a central part of this vibrant district. It's described as having 'everything you like,' from a wide array of restaurants and bars to cultural institutions. The New Brunswick Museum, located within Market Square, is a significant draw for those interested in the region's history and heritage. Reddit

Beyond the museum, the streets of Uptown are lined with diverse eateries, making it a food lover's paradise. Whether you're craving local seafood, international cuisine, or a craft beer, you'll find plenty of options. The Loyalist House, another historical gem, is also situated in this area, offering a glimpse into the city's past. Reddit

Visitors often highlight the lively atmosphere, especially when events are taking place. The combination of historical significance, modern amenities, and a bustling social scene makes Uptown Saint John a must-visit destination. Planning to spend a good portion of your day exploring this area will ensure you don't miss out on its many offerings. Reddit

The Market Square Boardwalk Experience

The Market Square Boardwalk offers a pleasant environment for relaxation and enjoyment, particularly noted for its 'lovely walks' along newly developed waterfront spaces. While some reviews mention it can be 'pretty dead' on quieter days, it truly shines when events are happening, becoming an even better way to enjoy Saint John with friends and family. Reddit

The interior of Market Square itself is visually appealing, featuring a tiered design, decorative elements hanging from the ceiling, and a central fountain on the ground floor. The use of greenery and stonework adds to its charm. It's a comfortable space with ample seating in the food court area, perfect for a meal or a break. The presence of artwork scattered throughout also enhances the ambiance. Reddit

For cruise ship visitors, Market Square is a convenient and worthwhile stop, offering clean bathrooms, various shops, and eateries. The combination of indoor amenities and outdoor waterfront access makes it a versatile destination for different types of visitors. Reddit

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