Saint John, New Brunswick, stands out as a fantastic city for bike tours thanks to its scenic waterfront, historic sites, and compact layout. Whether you’re keen on uncovering centuries of history or prefer leisurely rides through charming neighborhoods, Saint John offers options suited for every cyclist.
We’re particularly impressed by tours that blend storytelling with active exploration—like the Saint John Highlights & History Cycling Tour—which covers Fort Howe, the Reversing Falls, and the city’s past, all on a hybrid bike.
This tour is a great way to see highlights without the fatigue of a walking tour, making it ideal for active history lovers.
Another option we like is the Discover Saint John by Ebike, which uses off-road fat tire ebikes to explore the city’s quieter streets and waterfront. It’s perfect if you want a relaxed ride with plenty of photo stops. Both tours are well-reviewed and offer distinct ways to enjoy Saint John on two wheels—whether you’re after a deep dive into local history or a scenic, easy-paced adventure.
1. Saint John Highlights & History Cycling Tour
At number one on our list is the Saint John Highlights & History Cycling Tour. For around $85, you’ll spend about three hours cycling through some of Saint John’s most significant sites. The tour kicks off at Rockwood Park, a sprawling 2,200-acre natural area with lakes and trails, which makes an excellent starting point for a gentle warm-up.
From there, the route takes you through the city’s historic downtown, where you’ll learn about the industries that shaped Canada’s oldest incorporated city.
A key highlight is visiting Fort Howe, built in 1777, perched on a hill with commanding views of the city, harbor, and river. You’ll also see the Reversing Falls Rapids, created by the interaction of the Bay of Fundy and Saint John River, which are fascinating to watch from the bike trail.
The guide will take you to a local brewery—Canada’s oldest—for a quick drink and some local flavor. This tour is a good alternative to walking, especially if hills are part of your challenge.
Reviewers praise the guide’s knowledge and the combination of scenic views and historical insight, with many noting the workout they got from the hills.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a rich mix of history, nature, and city sights, perfect for active travelers wanting a rundown in just a few hours.
2. Discover Saint John by Ebike
At number two, the Discover Saint John by Ebike provides a more relaxed experience, ideal for those who prefer an easier pace. For about $59, you’ll enjoy roughly two hours of riding, primarily on off-road fat tire ebikes. The tour begins at Tin Can Beach, then takes you through King’s Square and Queen Square, featuring Victorian architecture and local boutiques.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on scenic Harbour Passage trail and Waterfront Container Village, where photo stops are frequent and sights are picturesque.
The quiet streets of the Uptown area are explored in comfort, with the guide sharing insights about the city’s history and culture. The bikes are described as easy to handle, making this a good choice for families or less experienced riders.
Reviewers mention the friendly and knowledgeable guide, and many appreciate the small group size, which allows for personalized attention.
Bottom Line: This ebike tour is perfect if you want a laid-back, scenic exploration of Saint John with plenty of photo opportunities and minimal physical strain.
How to Choose Between These Bike Tours
When deciding between these options, consider your fitness level, interest in history, and desired pace. The cycling tour (Saint John Highlights & History) offers a more active, in-depth experience with some hills and a focus on historical sites, making it suitable for those who want to combine exercise with learning.
On the other hand, the ebike tour (Discover Saint John by Ebike) is better for relaxed sightseeing, especially if you prefer easier rides or are traveling with less experienced cyclists.
Booking early is recommended, especially for the ebike tour, which sells out months in advance. Consider the weather—summer is ideal, but spring and early fall can also be pleasant. Think about how much time you want to dedicate; the longer cycling tour is perfect if you want a thorough exploration, while the shorter ebike route fits well into a busy day or cruise schedule.
Final Thoughts
Both of these bike tours highlight different aspects of Saint John—history on two wheels versus scenic waterfront riding—making them excellent choices depending on your interests. If you’re after a lively, history-packed ride with a bit of a workout, the Saint John Highlights & History Cycling Tour is a solid pick.
For a more relaxed, scenic experience with fewer hills and more photo stops, the Discover Saint John by Ebike is an outstanding option.
No matter which tour you choose, booking early and preparing for Saint John’s charming streets and rolling hills will ensure you enjoy a memorable day on two wheels. Both tours provide a fantastic way to see this waterfront city from a different perspective—active, authentic, and fun.