The Johnson Geo Centre is a science centre carved partly into an ancient outcrop at the foot of Signal Hill, and the building is part of the story: parts of the exhibit space are inside the rock itself, which is hundreds of millions of years old. The galleries cover the geology of Newfoundland and Labrador, the formation of the earth and the solar system, the deep ocean and the province's oil and gas industry, with a children's play area and a theatre. It is one of the best indoor options in St. John's, and it works especially well on a foggy or wet day when the views at Signal Hill are hidden. The centre sits on Signal Hill Road, which makes it an easy pairing with the hill, and its park outside, with its rock features, is a pleasant place to stand even when you are not going in.
What to do
Begin with the galleries on the earth and the province's geological past, which explain how the rocks of Newfoundland formed and moved, and why this island holds such unusual formations. Other galleries cover the solar system and space, the deep sea, and the story of the province's offshore oil and gas.
The Great Rock Wall is a climbing-style display of rock samples that children enjoy, and the Hibernia KidsPlace gives younger visitors a hands-on area. A theatre shows documentary programming, and guided tours, talks and science demonstrations are scheduled through the day. Allow time for the outdoor park, which shows the rocks of the headland in the open air.
Practical planning
The centre follows a seasonal pattern of hours. It is closed to the general public in the first months of the year, open Wednesday to Sunday through spring, open daily through the summer and early autumn, and then back to Wednesday to Sunday into December, with extra days when cruise ships are in port. Opening hours are normally 9:30 am to 5:00 pm.
Check the centre's own page for the hours that apply to your dates, and note that admission is charged, with different rates for adults, children and families. Allow about two hours, or longer if you are travelling with curious children. The building is on a slope below Signal Hill, so a taxi or drive is easier than walking from downtown, though the walk is possible.
Fitting it in
Pair the centre with Signal Hill on the same day, visiting the hill first in clear weather and the centre when the cloud comes in. It also works well after a downtown walking tour, because it gives your feet a rest. Families with younger children often prefer it to a long morning outdoors. If you only have time for one museum, choose The Rooms for history and art and the Geo Centre for science and rocks.
A visit here makes the cliffs of Signal Hill and the coastline at Cape Spear more meaningful, since you will know what you are looking at. Staff and volunteers are used to questions from children and adults alike, so do not hesitate to ask about a rock sample or an exhibit that catches your eye, and look for the talks and demonstrations that run through the day, which often turn out to be the most memorable part of a visit.
What to expect
The experience
A self-guided science centre with galleries, a theatre and daily talks, partly built into the rock below Signal Hill.
Best time
Any season; it is especially good on a wet or foggy day. Hours change through the year, so check before you go.
How long
About two hours, longer with children.
Tips
Check the seasonal hours, bring a layer for the cool lower galleries and combine it with Signal Hill.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Families and curious travellers who want a weather-proof activity.
- Families
- One of the best family stops in the city, with a hands-on play area and a climbing-style rock wall.
- Couples
- A quiet indoor hour or two, best paired with the cliffs outside.
- Pair with
- Signal Hill, which is a short drive or steep walk above it.
- Time needed
- About two hours.
Good questions
What can I see at the Johnson Geo Centre?+
Galleries cover the earth, the geology of the province, the solar system, the deep sea and the offshore oil and gas industry, plus a children's play area and a theatre.
Is it open every day?+
Hours follow a seasonal pattern, with Wednesday to Sunday opening in spring and late autumn and daily opening in summer, and a winter closure in the first months of the year. Check the centre's own page for your dates.
Is it good for children?+
Yes, it has a dedicated children's area, a climbing-style rock wall and demonstrations, which makes it a strong choice for a wet day.
How long should I allow?+
Allow about two hours, or longer if you stay for a talk or a film. Families may want more time.
How do I get there?+
The centre is on Signal Hill Road, a short drive or taxi ride from downtown. It is also reachable on foot, but the road climbs, so a ride is easier.
