Things to Do at Quidi Vidi Village

Complete Guide to Quidi Vidi Village in Stjohns

About Quidi Vidi Village

Quidi Vidi Village is a charming historic fishing village nestled in a sheltered inlet just minutes from downtown St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador. This picturesque community dates back to the early 18th century and represents one of North America's oldest settlements, where colorful wooden houses cling to rocky shores and traditional fishing boats bob in the protected harbor. The village has maintained its authentic maritime character while becoming a beloved destination for visitors seeking to experience Newfoundland's rich cultural heritage. The village is perhaps best known for the annual Royal St. John's Regatta, North America's oldest continuous sporting event, which has been held on Quidi Vidi Lake since 1818. Beyond its sporting legacy, Quidi Vidi offers visitors a glimpse into traditional Newfoundland life with its historic battery fortification, artisan shops, and the famous Quidi Vidi Brewery. The village serves as a living museum where visitors can witness the enduring traditions of Atlantic Canada's fishing communities while enjoying stunning coastal scenery and warm local hospitality.

What to See & Do

Quidi Vidi Battery

A restored 18th-century French fortification offering panoramic views of the harbor and St. John's, with historical interpreters in period costume during summer months

Quidi Vidi Brewery

North America's most easterly brewery producing craft beers using 25,000-year-old iceberg water, offering tours and tastings in a rustic warehouse setting

Mallard Cottage Restaurant

An award-winning restaurant housed in an 18th-century Irish-Newfoundland vernacular cottage, serving locally-sourced cuisine with stunning lake views

Quidi Vidi Lake

A pristine freshwater lake surrounded by walking trails, home to the famous Royal St. John's Regatta and offering peaceful scenery year-round

Historic Village Streets

Wander narrow lanes lined with colorful traditional houses, artist studios, and craft shops showcasing local pottery, paintings, and handmade goods

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Village accessible 24/7; Quidi Vidi Battery open daily 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM (June-September); Brewery tours available Wednesday-Sunday

Tickets & Pricing

Village exploration is free; Battery admission by donation; Brewery tours $10-15 CAD per person including tastings

Best Time to Visit

June through September for warmest weather and full attraction hours; Winter offers serene snow-covered scenery but limited services

Suggested Duration

2-4 hours for a leisurely visit including brewery tour and battery exploration

Getting There

Quidi Vidi Village is located just 3 kilometers northeast of downtown St. John's and easily accessible by car via Quidi Vidi Village Road. Free parking is available near the village center and lake. Public transit route #15 stops nearby, though service is limited. The village is also reachable on foot from downtown St. John's via a scenic 45-minute walk along Quidi Vidi Road, offering beautiful harbor views along the way. Taxi services are readily available from the city center and provide a convenient 10-minute ride to the village.

Things to Do Nearby

Signal Hill National Historic Site
Iconic hilltop fortress offering commanding views of St. John's harbor and the site where Marconi received the first transatlantic wireless signal
The Rooms
Newfoundland and Labrador's premier cultural facility housing the provincial museum, art gallery, and archives with extensive local history exhibits
George House
Historic 19th-century mansion turned museum showcasing Victorian-era life in St. John's with period furnishings and guided tours
Bowring Park
Beautiful 200-acre park featuring walking trails, duck ponds, the famous Peter Pan statue, and seasonal gardens perfect for picnicking
Cape Spear Lighthouse
The easternmost point in North America featuring a restored 19th-century lighthouse and dramatic coastal scenery just 20 minutes away

Tips & Advice

Visit during Regatta Day (first Wednesday in August) to witness North America's oldest continuous sporting event and experience local festivities
Wear comfortable walking shoes as village streets are uneven and can be slippery when wet
Bring a camera for stunning photo opportunities, especially during golden hour when the colorful houses are beautifully lit
Make dinner reservations at Mallard Cottage well in advance as this popular restaurant fills up quickly, especially during summer months

Tours & Activities at Quidi Vidi Village