Jelly Bean Row

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Description

Jelly Bean Row in St. John’s is one of those places that makes you stop mid-step and grin like a kid who’s just spotted a candy shop. It’s not an official street, mind you—more a nickname for the rows of colorful houses that climb the hillsides of downtown. Locals will tell you the name came naturally. After all, when you see these homes painted in bright shades of turquoise, lemon, cherry red, and mint, it’s hard not to think of a jar full of jelly beans spilling across the landscape.

Walking through Jelly Bean Row feels like stepping into a living postcard. The houses lean slightly with age, their wooden siding whispering stories of foggy mornings and salty sea air. Some visitors expect a single street, but really, it’s a collection of them—Victoria Street, Gower, Duckworth, and a handful of others where color meets character. The area isn’t overly polished or commercialized, which, honestly, adds to its charm. You’ll see laundry lines, flower boxes, and the occasional cat lounging on a porch railing like it owns the place. And maybe it does.

While it’s one of the most photographed spots in Newfoundland, the magic of Jelly Bean Row isn’t just in the colors—it’s in the feeling. There’s something grounding about being surrounded by so much personality on a gray Atlantic day. The locals take pride in keeping their homes painted and cared for, and you can sense that pride in the way people smile when you pause to take a photo. It’s not a grand attraction with ticket booths or guided tours, but rather a piece of living heritage that’s quietly confident in its beauty.

Key Features

• Distinctive rows of brightly painted heritage homes that define St. John’s cityscape.
• Authentic residential area offering a glimpse into local life and culture.
• Popular photography spot with panoramic views of the harbor and hillside streets.
• Easy access to nearby cafes, galleries, and local boutiques.
• Rich historical context tied to the city’s rebuilding efforts after the Great Fire of 1892.
• Free to explore—no admission fees or reservations required.

One of the things I’ve always loved about Jelly Bean Row is how it doesn’t try too hard. The homes were originally painted in bright colors so fishermen could spot them through the fog when returning to harbor. That practical bit of history has turned into a visual symbol of resilience and creativity. And maybe that’s what makes it feel so genuine—there’s history beneath every coat of paint.

Best Time to Visit

If you’re chasing that perfect photograph, summer and early fall are your best bet. The weather is mild, and the sunlight brings out the full spectrum of colors in the houses. But don’t dismiss spring or even winter visits either. There’s something poetic about the way snow rests on the rooftops, softening the edges of the bright facades. It’s quieter too, so you can wander without dodging tour groups or camera tripods.

Personally, I like visiting in late August. The city is buzzing but not overwhelming, and the air carries that crisp Atlantic freshness that makes you feel alive. Early mornings are especially peaceful—you can hear gulls overhead and the faint hum of fishing boats out in the harbor. Bring a coffee, find a bench, and just let the colors wake you up better than any caffeine ever could.

How to Get There

Getting to Jelly Bean Row is straightforward once you’re in St. John’s. The area sits right in the heart of downtown, within walking distance of most hotels and restaurants. If you’re driving, parking can be tricky on narrow streets, so it’s often easier to leave your car nearby and explore on foot. The city’s layout is a bit hilly, so wear comfortable shoes—you’ll be climbing a few inclines, but the views make every step worth it.

For those arriving from the airport, it’s about a 15–20 minute drive. Taxis and rideshares are readily available, and local buses stop close by. Honestly, the best way to experience it is to wander without a strict plan. The streets twist and turn, revealing new angles and unexpected pops of color around every corner. You might even stumble upon a local artist painting on a stoop or a musician strumming a tune outside a café. That’s the kind of serendipity this place seems to attract.

Tips for Visiting

Here’s a bit of advice from someone who’s spent more than a few afternoons wandering these streets. First, go early in the day if you want photos without crowds. The light is softer, and the colors look richer before midday glare sets in. Second, respect that these are people’s homes. It’s tempting to get close for that perfect shot, but try to keep a respectful distance from doorways and windows. Locals are friendly, but no one loves a camera poking through their curtains.

Bring a good pair of walking shoes—those hills can sneak up on you. And if you can, chat with a local shop owner or resident. They often have stories about how their house got its color or what the neighborhood used to look like decades ago. That kind of insight adds depth to your visit in a way no guidebook can. Also, don’t rush. Jelly Bean Row isn’t about ticking a box off your itinerary—it’s about soaking in the character of a place that’s proudly, stubbornly, itself.

One last thing: the weather in St. John’s changes faster than you’d expect. A sunny morning can turn into misty drizzle by afternoon, so pack a light jacket or umbrella. The fog, though, gives the colors a dreamy, almost watercolor effect that’s worth waiting for. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a rainbow arching over the harbor—it’s like the city’s way of showing off just a little.

In the end, Jelly Bean Row isn’t just an attraction; it’s a reminder that beauty doesn’t have to be grand or perfect. Sometimes it’s a crooked window frame, a peeling door, or a bold splash of paint against a gray sky. It’s the kind of place that stays with you long after you’ve left, tucked away in your memory like a bright candy you can’t quite forget.

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