Saint John: Small Group Night Tour w/Fort La Tour + Martello

Discover Saint John after dark with this engaging small group night tour. For $82 per person, you’ll spend about two hours exploring the city’s most iconic sights, from historic forts to panoramic viewpoints. Led by friendly guides, you’ll enjoy a narrated drive through the city, visit the Reversing Falls Rapids, and explore key landmarks like Fort La Tour and Carleton Martello Tower—though the tower’s interior is temporarily closed for restoration, the grounds and lookout remain accessible.

Two things we particularly like about this experience are the intimate size of the group—lasting no more than 6 guests—which means personalized attention and a more relaxed atmosphere—and the combination of driving, walking, and panoramic views, making it a well-rounded introduction to Saint John’s nighttime charm. The tour also includes skip-the-line admission to the Skywalk observation deck, adding a special vantage point for city views.

That said, one consideration is that the Carleton Martello Tower itself is closed for restoration until 2022, which might disappoint those eager to explore its interior. However, the grounds and the lookout still offer impressive views and a sense of history. This tour is best suited for travelers looking for a relaxed, in-depth introduction to Saint John’s highlights after dark—especially those who appreciate local storytelling, scenic vistas, and historical sites without the hassle of large crowds.

Key Points

Small group experience ensures personalized attention and a relaxed vibe.
Evening tour offers stunning night views and illuminated landmarks.
Visit to Fort La Tour and Carleton Martello Tower combines history with scenic outlooks.
Narrated drive through the city highlights notable sights like the Reversing Falls and the port.
All attraction fees included with no need to wait in line, plus hotel pickup and drop-off.
Cost-effective at $82, offering a balance of guided insight and authentic sights.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Saint John Night Tour Experience

This two-hour evening tour is a treasure for anyone wanting to see Saint John in a different light—literally. For $82, your guide will pick you up from your hotel in an air-conditioned van, ready to show you a side of the city that few visitors get to experience after sunset. The small group size—capped at 6 guests—means you won’t be lost in a crowd, and the personalized narration from your local guide makes each stop more meaningful.

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Saint John Night Driving Tour With Skywalk & Martello Tower

Exploring the City Lights and Landmarks

We loved the way the tour begins with a narrated panorama of Saint John from the van. The lights reflecting on the bay, the glow of the port, and the lit-up streets create a magical atmosphere. As you pass notable sights like King Square, Fort Howe, and the bustling port, your guide shares stories and insights that bring the city to life.

One of the tour’s highlights is the visit to the Reversing Falls Rapids. The tour description notes that this is “a sight to behold as the monstrously high tide reverses the flow of the Saint John River,” and we can confirm that witnessing this natural phenomenon at night adds a spectacular dimension. The roar of the rapids and the changing tide create an almost otherworldly feeling, especially with the quiet of evening enveloping the scene.

Historic Forts and Scenic Lookouts

The visit to Fort La Tour—a site of national historical importance—is a step back into 17th-century fur trading history. While the interior is currently closed for restoration, the grounds and viewing areas remain open, allowing you to soak in the atmosphere and imagine life during the fur trade era. The guide’s stories help paint a vivid picture of the fort’s strategic importance and its role in shaping Saint John.

Next, the Carleton Martello Tower offers sweeping views over the city, harbor, and skyline. Although the interior is off-limits until 2022 due to restoration, the outdoor lookout provides a fantastic vantage point for photos and appreciation of Saint John’s waterfront. From here, you can see how the port has evolved and understand the strategic importance of this historic military site.

The Value of Guided Narration and Skip-the-Line Access

One of the real advantages of this tour is the inclusion of skip-the-ticket-line admission to the Skywalk observation deck. This feature allows you to bypass crowds and enjoy a spectacular view of Saint John from above—something that’s often a bonus in popular tourist spots.

Your guide—friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive—adds context and stories that make the sights more meaningful than just a photo. As one reviewer put it, “Our guide was engaging and shared stories I hadn’t heard before,” which makes the tour feel like a journey through the city’s living history.

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Practical Considerations and Comfort

The tour operates rain or shine, so waterproof gear might be advisable if the weather turns. The small group size means you’ll be sitting comfortably in a modern, air-conditioned van, with hotel pickup and drop-off included—adding to the convenience, especially if you’re unfamiliar with Saint John’s layout.

One thing to note is that, because the tour takes place at night, some sites might be less accessible or closed, like the interior of the Martello Tower. Still, the outdoor vistas and storytelling compensate for this.

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Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who enjoy a relaxed pace with plenty of room for questions and personal interaction. It’s great for history buffs, photography enthusiasts, or those simply wanting to see Saint John’s illuminated sights without the daytime crowds. Families, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate a mix of scenic views, local stories, and historical sites will find it particularly rewarding.

Final Thoughts: Is the Saint John Night Tour Right for You?

This small group night tour offers a balanced mix of scenic views, historic sites, and local storytelling—all within a comfortable, intimate setting. The inclusion of skip-the-line access to the Skywalk and hotel pickup makes it a convenient choice for travelers looking to maximize their limited time.

While the interior of Carleton Martello Tower remains closed for restoration, the outdoor vistas and grounds still provide a rewarding experience. The tour’s focus on illuminated landmarks and natural phenomena like the Reversing Falls Rapids makes it especially appealing for those wanting to see Saint John’s evening glow.

If you’re a traveler who enjoys history, scenic views, and small-group experiences that feel personal rather than commercial, this tour offers excellent value at $82. It’s particularly suited for visitors who want a relaxed introduction to Saint John’s nightlife and historic highlights without the hassle of large crowds or complicated logistics.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off at your downtown Saint John hotel are included in the price.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, making it easy to fit into an evening schedule.

What sights will I see?
You’ll see the Reversing Falls Rapids, Fort La Tour grounds, Carleton Martello Tower lookout, and enjoy a narrated drive passing Saint John’s key landmarks like the port, Uptown, and King Square.

Is the Carleton Martello Tower open for interior visits?
No, the interior is closed until 2022 for restoration, but the grounds and lookout are accessible.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

What is the group size?
Limited to about 6 guests, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Is the tour suitable in bad weather?
Yes, the tour operates rain or shine; just dress appropriately for the weather.

Are attraction fees included?
Yes, all attraction admission fees are covered in the tour price.

What should I bring?
Bring a camera for the views, waterproof gear if rain is expected, and a sense of curiosity about Saint John’s history and scenery.

Is this tour good for families?
Yes, it suits families and travelers interested in history and scenic views, especially those who enjoy small, relaxed group settings.

This Saint John night tour offers a cozy, informative way to experience the city after dark. Whether you’re into history, stunning vistas, or just soaking up the lively evening atmosphere, it’s a memorable addition to your travel plans—especially when you want a guided experience that’s both relaxed and enriching.