Saint-John offers tourists and Maritimers alike a distinct charm found only in a port city with its lengthy history. Here are three activities to enjoy this fall:

Art Lovers Take Note

The Saint John Gallery Hop occurs three times annually, and the last one this year will be from 6pm to 8pm on October 19th, 2007. It takes place in the heart of Saint-John and offers a great opportunity to discover Maritime artists.

It begins traditionally at the New Brunswick Museum, which is in fact the oldest continuing museum of Canada as it was established in 1842. Though the original building is on Douglass Avenue, the exhibits are now in the museum's new location at the Market Square shopping mall.

If you arrive early, you can take the time to view a few of their permanent exhibitions. My personal favourites are the marine mammals and the hall of great whales as well as the birds of New Brunswick. Another exhibit of interest is the 'Quest for Cod' which ends on October 31st. It is an award winning travelling exhibition which is usually based at the French Shore interpretation center in Conche, Newfoundland.

From the New Brunswick Museum, the gallery hop often goes to the Handworks Gallery, the Peter Buckland Gallery as well as the Tim Isaac Antique shop, which is always eclectic and fun.

For a complete itinerary, you can call the New Brunswick museum at (506) 643-2300.

Hike the Irving Nature Park

The Irving Nature Park provides over 20 kilometres of nature trails. They are well-groomed year-round and hence perfect for running (or brisk walking) and burning off a few calories before Christmas. They also lend themselves to leisurely strolls with binoculars in hand for bird-watching. Over 250 species of birds have been spotted at the park, which is more than two thirds of all species in North America. The fall is great time for bird watching as the shorebirds are migrating and thousands of them can be seen on the beaches and mudflats. The leaves won't be on the trees much longer, so get out and enjoy the panoply of fall colors before it is too late! Best of all, it's free.

For more information, you can go to www.ifdn.com or call (506) 653-7367.

Get Pampered at Inn on the Cove

If gallery hopping isn't your cup of tea, and hiking doesn't get you excited, then you should consider going to Saint-John, just to spend a little time at Inn on the Cove. Nestled on the edge of Fundy Bay, their rooms offer panoramic views of the coast, which you can enjoy, even as you sit in the Jacuzzi. Consider a soothing deep tissue massage or if you're going with your partner, try out the couple's hot stone massage. The staff at Inn on the Cove are very friendly and do their best to make your stay as comfortable as possible. If you like yoga, they are having a special retreat at the end of the month on October 26th to the 28th.

For more information, you can go to www.innonthecove.com or call (506) 672-7799.

With all there is to do in Saint-John this fall, you may need more than just one week-end - who knew Saint-John could be so much fun?