Things to Do at Cabot Tower

Complete Guide to Cabot Tower in St. Johns

About Cabot Tower

Cabot Tower stands proudly atop Signal Hill in St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, serving as one of Canada's most iconic historical landmarks. Built in 1897 to commemorate the 400th anniversary of John Cabot's voyage to North America and Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee, this stone tower has witnessed centuries of maritime history and played a crucial role in transatlantic communication. The tower gained international fame in 1901 when Guglielmo Marconi received the first transatlantic wireless signal here, forever changing global communications. Today, Cabot Tower offers visitors breathtaking panoramic views of St. John's harbour, the Atlantic Ocean, and the rugged Newfoundland coastline, making it an essential stop for anyone exploring Canada's easternmost province.

What to See & Do

Panoramic Ocean Views

Climb to the top for spectacular 360-degree views of the Atlantic Ocean, St. John's harbour, and the colorful row houses of downtown

Marconi Wireless Exhibit

Learn about the historic first transatlantic wireless transmission received here in 1901, featuring interactive displays and historical artifacts

Signal Hill Battlefield

Explore the surrounding historic battlefield site where the final battle of the Seven Years' War in North America took place in 1762

Interpretation Centre

Discover the rich maritime history of Newfoundland through exhibits, films, and displays about Signal Hill's strategic importance

Historic Architecture

Admire the tower's distinctive stone construction and Victorian-era design, representing late 19th-century commemorative architecture

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (May to October), limited winter hours from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM (November to April)

Tickets & Pricing

Free admission to the site; parking fees may apply ($3-5 CAD per vehicle)

Best Time to Visit

Late spring to early fall (May-September) for best weather and full access; early morning or late afternoon for optimal lighting and fewer crowds

Suggested Duration

1-2 hours for tower visit and grounds exploration; allow extra time for hiking trails

Getting There

Cabot Tower is located on Signal Hill, approximately 2 km from downtown St. John's. Visitors can drive up Signal Hill Road to the parking area near the tower, though the road can be steep and winding. Public transit options are limited, so a car, taxi, or organized tour is recommended. For the more adventurous, several hiking trails lead up Signal Hill from the city, including the popular Signal Hill Trail and the North Head Trail, offering scenic routes to the tower.

Things to Do Nearby

The Rooms
Newfoundland and Labrador's premier cultural facility featuring provincial museum, art gallery, and archives
Quidi Vidi Village
Picturesque fishing village with traditional wooden houses, craft brewery, and artisan shops
Cape Spear Lighthouse
Easternmost point in North America featuring a historic lighthouse and dramatic coastal scenery
George House
Historic colonial mansion showcasing 18th-century architecture and period furnishings
Water Street
One of North America's oldest streets, lined with colorful buildings, shops, restaurants, and pubs

Tips & Advice

Dress warmly and bring windproof clothing as it can be very windy and cold at the top, even in summer
Visit during sunset for stunning photography opportunities and romantic views over the Atlantic
Combine your visit with a walk along the Signal Hill Trail system for additional scenic viewpoints
Check weather conditions before visiting as fog can obscure views and the tower may close during severe weather

Tours & Activities at Cabot Tower