Quidi Vidi, pronounced locally as Kitty Vitty, is a small, working fishing village sitting in a narrow cleft in the rock beside St. John's. Brightly painted fishing stages and boats line the tiny harbour, and the steep road in leads to a handful of houses, a historic battery above the entrance and the artisan studios on the wharf. The tourism board lists the village studios as a craft incubator where visitors can step into public studios, meet resident artisans and buy work directly, and the studios are open year-round. Just behind the village lies Quidi Vidi Lake, where the Royal St. John's Regatta, one of the oldest sporting events in North America, is rowed each August. The village is compact, so you can see most of it on foot in an hour, and the East Coast Trail passes close by for those who want a longer walk.
What to do
Park near the harbour, wander the lane past the fishing stages and take your time over the studios on the wharf, where craftspeople make work you can buy. Walk up to the battery for a view of the inlet, or follow a short stretch of coastal path for a closer look at the cliffs. The village also has a small brewery and a few places to eat, so it works as a relaxed morning or afternoon stop rather than a full-day outing.
Practical planning
Entry to the village is free, and the studios are listed by the tourism board as open year-round, though individual studios keep their own hours, so check before a special trip. Parking is limited and the road is narrow, so go early or at quiet times, and respect the fact that people live and work here. In winter the wind off the water is sharp, so dress warmly, and expect fewer people and a calmer, more atmospheric visit.
Fitting it in
Quidi Vidi is only a few minutes from Signal Hill by road, so the two make a natural pair, and the guided city and Cape Spear tours generally stop here too. If you are in St. John's in early August, ask locally about Regatta Day, when the lake is crowded with rowers and spectators. Pair the village with a coastal walk if you have more time.
What to expect
The experience
A free, self-guided wander through a working fishing village with craft studios, a wharf and a battery lookout.
Best time
Morning or late afternoon for soft light and fewer cars; the studios keep their own hours, so check before a special trip.
How long
Allow an hour for the village, or two if you add the studios and a coastal walk.
Tips
Park considerately on the narrow road, bring a warm layer and ask before photographing people or private boats.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Photographers and anyone who wants a taste of an outport village without leaving the city.
- Families
- The compact harbour and open space suit children, but keep them away from the water and working boats.
- Couples
- Visit at golden hour, then follow the trail or the road back toward town for dinner.
- Pair with
- Signal Hill, Cape Spear and the downtown walking tour fit around it.
- Time needed
- One to two hours, including a coffee or a browse in the studios.
Good questions
Is Quidi Vidi worth visiting?+
Yes, it is one of the most photogenic places in the city and costs nothing to wander. It gives a feel for a real fishing community just minutes from downtown.
How do I say Quidi Vidi?+
Locals say it as Kitty Vitty. Using the local pronunciation is a friendly touch with people you meet there.
Are the craft studios open year-round?+
The tourism board lists the Quidi Vidi Village artisan studios as open year-round. Individual studios set their own hours, so check ahead if you are making a special trip.
Can I walk to Quidi Vidi from downtown?+
It is possible on the trails and roads, but it is a long, hilly walk, so most visitors drive, take a taxi or join a guided tour. Allow a good while if you walk.
What is the Royal St. John's Regatta?+
It is an annual rowing regatta held on Quidi Vidi Lake in early August, weather permitting, and it is among the oldest sporting events in North America. It draws large crowds, so expect busy roads and a festive mood.
