Signal Hill And St. John's Highlights

OVERVIEW

Admire the panoramic views from atop a hill overlooking St. John’s as a prelude to a closer look at the provincial capital. Signal Hill takes its name from the signal flags that were once flown there to announce the names of approaching ships and from the fact that Guglielmo Marconi received the first transatlantic wireless signal there in 1901. At the summit, you will find Cabot Tower, which was built to commemorate the 400th anniversary of explorer John Cabot’s landing in the area and taking possession for the English. More historical highlights await you in St. John’s, North America’s oldest and most easterly city. While driving through the narrow crisscrossing streets, you will see rows of colorful Victorian homes and several churches listed on the Canadian Register of Historic Places. You will pause for photos of the Government House, which was built in the mid-19th century with red sandstone quarried from Signal Hill.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Take in the sweeping views from atop Signal Hill and discover the origin of its name.
• Drive past Saint John’s architectural treasures, many of which are National Historic Sites.
• Stop to snap photos of the Government House, a grand residence made of red sandstone.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.