The Bowring Park neighbourhood is a unique and diverse area that blends natural beauty, recreation, and a rich agricultural heritage. Characterized by a mix of residential, agricultural, and recreational landscapes, the neighbourhood is anchored by the expansive Bowring Park—one of the city’s most cherished green spaces.

Located in the west end of the city, near the neighbourhoods of Kilbride, Cowan Heights, and the Waterford Valley, Bowring Park neighbourhood offers a balance of rural charm and modern living. While new developments continue to grow, the area proudly maintains its farming roots, with several active farms still contributing to the local landscape and culture.

Residents and visitors alike enjoy access to a wide range of recreational amenities, including:

• Sports facilities within Bowring Park, including a soccer field and tennis courts
• Gerry Veitch Park, home to basketball courts and a softball field
• A dedicated dog park
• Various neighbourhood playgrounds, including:
  • Sesame Park Playground 
  • Edison Place Playground
  • Francis Street Playground
  • Holbrook Terrace Playground

With its combination of scenic green space, active recreation, and deep-rooted history, the Bowring Park neighbourhood continues to be a vibrant and evolving part of St. John’s—where tradition and growth come together.

Shea Heights / Blackhead is a coastal neighbourhood overlooking the city, located in the southwest area of St. John’s. Settled in the 1930s, the neighbourhood officially became part of St. John’s in 1984. The area includes established residential communities, community facilities, schools, parks, recreation spaces, and natural features, contributing to a strong local identity and sense of place. 

Residents benefit from a close‑knit community structure, access to local services, and proximity to coastal and hillside landscapes. The neighbourhood continues to support residential living while maintaining strong community connections through shared spaces, events, and recreational opportunities.

Shea Heights / Blackhead includes several community facilities and public spaces that support recreation, health, and community life:

Shea Heights Community Centre
Located on Linegar Avenue, the Shea Heights Community Centre offers a range of community programs and services. Amenities include multi‑purpose indoor space, meeting rooms, and access to outdoor recreation features such as a skateboard park and dog park. The centre plays an important role in supporting local events and community‑based activities. 

Shea Heights Community Health Centre
The Shea Heights Community Health Centre provides medical and health services to residents of the neighbourhood, supporting access to local healthcare within the community.

Dick Power Memorial Softball Field
A community recreation facility providing space for organized sports and outdoor activity.

Harry Yetman Shea Heights Park
A neighbourhood park offering open green space and recreational opportunities for nearby residents.

Blackhead Playground
A small neighbourhood playground. 

The Broad Cove Watershed is an important protected area that helps supply drinking water to parts of St. John’s. Water collected here is transferred to Windsor Lake for treatment and distribution.

The Windsor Lake Water Treatment Facility plays an important role in supplying safe drinking water to residents and businesses in the east end and downtown St. John’s. Water is processed through a modern, multi-step treatment system to ensure it meets all safety standards before being delivered to homes and businesses.

The facility has the capacity to treat large volumes of water each day, helping meet the needs of the community year-round.

The Central neighbourhood is one of St. John’s oldest areas, known for its rich history and established character. While it has evolved over time, it continues to reflect a traditional feel, with a lively mix of residential, commercial, institutional, and light industrial uses.

Located in the west end, the neighbourhood is generally bounded by Freshwater Road, LeMarchant Road, Patrick Street, Water Street, Shaw Street, and Cashin Avenue.

Central is a vibrant and active area, offering a range of amenities and places to explore. From historic sites to schools, medical facilities, local shops and green spaces, it’s a neighbourhood that blends everyday living with culture and recreation.

Amenities

• Victoria Park, featuring walking trails, a playground, dog park, City of St. John's community garden, monuments, and seasonal activities like sliding

• St. Clare's Mercy Hospital

• Duey Fitzgerald Memorial Ball Field (located within Victoria Park)

• Buckmaster Circle Community Centre, which provides health, social, recreational and educational services to the community.

• Buckmaster Circle Rotary Park

• Ayre Athletic Grounds, which is home to several soccer fields.

• Brother Egan Park, which features a playground, tennis courts and a soccer field.

• McKay Street Playground

Neighbourhood Plan

The City is currently developing a neighbourhood plan for Central. This plan will help guide future growth and improvements, including land use, building form, streets, and public spaces.

Learn more and get involved at EngageStJohns.ca.

Established in the early 1970s, Cowan Heights is a well-established residential neighbourhood in the west end of St. John’s. The area slopes from Topsail Road up to Blackmarsh Road and is known for its quiet streets, strong sense of community, and family-friendly layout.

A defining feature of Cowan Heights is its network of parks and walking trails that run through the neighbourhood, connecting homes, green spaces, and schools. Two elementary schools are located near the centre, making it a popular area for families.

Commercial services are mainly found along Topsail Road, with smaller local options throughout the neighbourhood. Cowan Heights is also well connected to the rest of the city by road, transit, and trail networks, including access to the transit hub at the Village Shopping Centre.

The neighbourhood continues to evolve, with long-time residents aging in place and new families moving into the area.

Recreational Amenities

• Kitty Gaul Park
  A community park known for its extensive sports facilities and walking trails.
  
  
• Cowan Park
  A community park offering a variety of recreational amenities, including a playground, walking trails, softball field and a tennis court. 
  
  
• Various neighbourhood playgrounds, including: 
  • Newman Street Playground
  • Barachois Street Playground
  • Canada Drive Playground
  • Curling Place Playground
  • Fermeuse Street Playground
  • Ferryland Street East & West Playgrounds
  • Frecker Drive Playground
  • Gros Morne Place Playground
  • Markland Street Playground
  • Stephenville Street Playground
  • Torngat Crescent Playground
  • Wabush Place Playground
  • Burdell Place Playground

Neighbourhood Plan

The City has completed a Neighbourhood Plan for Cowan Heights.

Based on community input and local data, the plan guides future development and improvements in the area. It addresses land use, building types, transportation, parks, and neighbourhood character to ensure growth fits the area while supporting broader City goals.

Neighbourhood Plans are legally binding, meaning future development must align with the plan’s policies.

Downtown St. John’s is the cultural, historic, and economic heart of the city. Known for its narrow streets, heritage buildings, and harbour views, it is one of the oldest urban areas in North America and remains a vibrant centre of activity.

This area brings together a mix of uses—residential, commercial, institutional, and entertainment—creating a lively, walkable neighbourhood. Downtown is not only a destination for work, dining, and nightlife, but also a place people call home, with a diverse community and a wide range of housing options, from traditional row houses to modern apartments and condominiums.

The neighbourhood includes many of the city’s most recognized historic and cultural areas, along with designated heritage buildings that help define the character and identity of St. John’s. Its setting—framed by the harbour, Signal Hill, and the Southside Hills—makes it one of the most distinctive parts of the city.

Entertainment and Retail

Downtown offers a wide range of restaurants, cafés, pubs, shops, and boutiques, all within walking distance. Water Street and Duckworth Street are key commercial corridors, while George Street is known for its concentration of bars, live music, and nightlife. In the summer, the City also hosts the Downtown Pedestrian Mall, which transforms a portion of Water Street into a lively public space for strolling, outdoor dining, shopping, and events.

The Mary Brown’s Centre hosts major events, including concerts, sports, and entertainment, adding to the area’s energy year-round.

Business and Industry

Downtown is a major centre for business and employment. It is home to offices, local businesses, and industries connected to the working harbour, including the offshore energy sector and growing ocean technology industries.

The area also includes hotels, meeting spaces, and the St. John’s Convention Centre, making it a hub for conferences and events.

City Hall

St. John's City Hall is also located downtown, the home of the city's municipal government. The building is a prominent local example of Brutalism, an international architectural style that originated in the 1950s and focused on simple, powerful forms and clearly expressed materials. Access St. John's, located on the main floor, provides residents and businesses with access to various City services, programs and information.

The City's Visitor Information Centre/Business Information Centre are also located downtown at 348 Water Street. 

Parks and Open Space

Despite its urban setting, downtown includes several parks and green spaces, such as Martin’s Meadow Park, which provide opportunities for recreation and access to outdoor space within a high-density area. The Newfoundland National War Memorial and Habourside Park are also popular destinations, especially in the summer months with the City offers its Music @ Harbourside Park series. 

Neighbourhood Plan

The City has completed a draft Neighbourhood Plan for downtown. 

Based on community input and local data, the plan guides future development and improvements in the area. It addresses land use, building types, transportation, parks, and neighbourhood character to ensure growth fits the area while supporting broader City goals.

Neighbourhood Plans are legally binding, meaning future development must align with the plan’s policies.

Freshwater Bay is a large, mostly undeveloped natural area located on the southern edge of St. John’s. Bordered by Shea Heights, Blackhead, and the Southside, with the Atlantic Ocean forming its eastern edge, the area is known for its rugged coastline and scenic views.

At the heart of the area is a barachois, where ocean and freshwater meet. This unique landscape, along with dramatic coastal terrain, makes Freshwater Bay a popular spot for hiking, whale watching, and viewing icebergs in season.

One of the area’s most notable features is the remains of the SS Thetis, a historic shipwreck that has become a point of interest for visitors.

Built in Scotland in 1881 as a whaling vessel, the Thetis later gained recognition for its role in an 1884 Arctic rescue mission, where it helped save members of a stranded expedition. The ship went on to serve with the United States Navy and Coast Guard before being sold and refitted as a sealing vessel operating out of St. John’s.

In 1950, the Thetis was retired from service and towed to Freshwater Bay, where it was intentionally grounded. Today, its rusting remains are still visible along the shoreline, adding a unique historical element to this natural landscape.

Goulds is a growing neighbourhood in the southwest of St. John’s with deep agricultural roots. Farming has traditionally been central to the area, and active farms continue to operate today alongside new residential development.

Once an independent town, Goulds still maintains a strong small-community feel. It offers a mix of local shops, retail services, schools, places of worship, and everyday amenities, along with growing residential areas.

The neighbourhood is home to beloved Bidgood Park, which contains extensive walking trails, an outdoor classroom and dog park. 

The Goulds Recreation Complex is home to a community centre, stadium, and various other amenities including tennis courts, three softball fields, soccer fields, outdoor basketball court, playground and skate park. 

There are also neighbourhood parks available, including:

• Della Drive Playground and Basketball Courts
• Ridgemount Street Playground
• Shoal Bay Playground

Kenmount East is a well‑established mixed‑use neighbourhood located in the central‑east part of the city. Anchored by Kenmount Road and extending into areas such as Goldstone Street, Thorburn Road, Pippy Place, and Seaborn Street, the neighbourhood includes a blend of residential streets, commercial areas, schools, and employment spaces.

The area is best known as the home of Avalon Mall, one of Newfoundland and Labrador’s primary shopping destinations, along with surrounding retail, service, and business uses. These commercial areas support both neighbourhood needs and city‑wide activity, while nearby residential streets offer a range of housing types and established community settings.

Kenmount East benefits from excellent transportation access, with major road connections linking it to downtown, the west end, and surrounding neighbourhoods. Portions of the area also support light industrial and service‑oriented uses, particularly around streets such as Austin Street, reflecting the neighbourhood’s role as both a residential and employment area.

The area has a few neighbourhood playgrounds:

• Vinnicombe Street Park
• Baird Place Playground
• Lobelia Street Playground
• Seaborn Street Playground

With its combination of shopping, schools, business areas, and accessible green space, Kenmount East remains a central and highly functional neighbourhood that supports everyday living, employment, and easy movement throughout the city.

Kenmount West is a diverse and fast‑growing neighbourhood that includes the large Kenmount Terrace residential area as well as the Kelsey Drive commercial corridor, home to a wide range of retail stores and restaurants. With plenty of forested land still intact, the area offers a balanced mix of residential, commercial, recreational, and natural spaces.

The neighbourhood benefits from quick highway access and a strong concentration of shopping and dining options, making it a convenient and increasingly popular destination for both residents and visitors.

It is also home to the following recreational amenities:

• Kenmount Terrace Community Centre, which provides a great multi-use and gym space, as well as recreational programming.
  
  
• Kenmount Terrance Park, which features a dog park, skate park, playground with accessible features, splash pad, washrooms, basketball courts and walking trails.
  
  
• Neighbourhood playgrounds, including:
  • Ariel Place Park
  • Northern Ranger Street Playground
  • Hopedale Crescent Playground

Paddy’s Pond is a unique area in the west end of St. John’s, extending toward Foxtrap Access Road and Peacekeepers Way. It combines natural landscapes with a mix of aviation, residential, and commercial uses.

The pond itself has a long history as a floatplane base and continues to be used by private operators today. It is designated by Transport Canada for unrestricted floatplane use. Originally established in the 1950s as a commercial passenger base, it later served as a base for provincial water bombers. Private aircraft have operated from the pond for decades and remain an active presence.

The surrounding area is also used for a range of other purposes. There are rural-style residential properties, as well as small businesses and commercial uses along nearby roads, contributing to a more mixed-use, lightly developed character.

Paddy’s Pond is also a popular outdoor destination. Residents use the area for walking, fishing, and accessing nearby trails, with seasonal activities such as snowmobiling in the winter.

The Pippy Park neighbourhood is named after one of its most prominent features and is closely defined by its connection to the surrounding natural landscape. Alongside extensive parkland, the area also includes established residential neighbourhoods, schools, and areas of agricultural use, creating a unique mix of living, learning, and open space within the city.

Located just minutes from downtown with convenient highway access, Pippy Park offers residents a rare opportunity to live next to one of Canada’s largest urban parks while remaining connected to city services and amenities. Residential areas within and around the park benefit from easy access to trails, green space, and year‑round recreational opportunities.

As one of the largest urban parks in the country, Pippy Park spans approximately 3,400 acres and serves as a protected land reserve and major recreation destination. An extensive trail network, ponds suitable for small watercraft, campgrounds, two golf courses, and large areas of forested and open green space support a wide range of outdoor activities. Recreation opportunities shift with the seasons, from walking, cycling, and canoeing in warmer months to cross‑country skiing and snowshoeing in winter. During the winter season, the City operates a Winter Activity Centre at the North Bank Lodge to support outdoor recreation for all ages.

Community Spaces

Pippy Park contains several significant neighbourhood‑ and city‑wide amenities that contribute to its distinctive character:

• Confederation Building
  An iconic provincial landmark, Confederation Building is home to the House of Assembly and provincial offices. Its park‑like setting and surrounding grounds were central to the original vision for Pippy Park and continue to shape the character of the area today.
  
  
• Memorial University of Newfoundland Botanical Gardens
  Work to establish the garden began in 1971, with the site officially opening to the public in 1977. Originally four acres in size, the garden has grown to encompass more than 110 acres. It features native and cultivated plants suited to the local climate, a variety of habitats, and an interconnected trail system that supports education, conservation, and recreation.
  
  
• The Fluvarium
  Located near Long Pond, the Fluvarium is an environmental education centre that celebrates freshwater ecosystems. Through interactive exhibits and viewing areas, visitors can observe trout and other freshwater species while learning about watershed protection and aquatic habitats.
  
  
• Ches Penney Family YMCA
  Operated by the YMCA of Newfoundland & Labrador, this facility features a gym, pool, walking track and more.
  
  
• Animal Care and Adoption Centre
  The City’s Animal Care and Adoption Centre is located within the neighbourhood, providing animal welfare services and adoption opportunities for residents.

Historically, Pippy Park was envisioned in the 1960s by Premier Joey Smallwood as part of a “Great Park” surrounding the Confederation Building and the expanding Memorial University campus. With the support of entrepreneur Chesley A. Pippy, the park was formally established in 1968. Today, much of the land remains in its natural state, preserving forest and grassland and creating a wilderness‑like environment in the heart of the city.

Quidi Vidi is one of the oldest neighbourhoods in St. John’s, with roots dating back to the 1600s. Today, it is a primarily residential area known for its strong connection to the city’s history, natural landscape, and cultural life. Winding streets, historic buildings, and scenic surroundings reflect centuries of activity tied to the fishery, military presence, agriculture, and recreation.

Walking through the neighbourhood offers a direct connection to the past, from the historic fishing village of Quidi Vidi to Quidi Vidi Lake, long associated with rowing and the Royal St. John’s Regatta. The area also includes Pleasantville, a former military housing community that has been undergoing transformation in recent years, introducing higher‑density residential development while maintaining important community amenities.

With access to trails, outdoor recreation, local restaurants, and waterfront views, Quidi Vidi blends everyday living with cultural and recreational experiences that attract both residents and visitors.

Community Spaces

Quidi Vidi is home to a mix of cultural, recreational, and historic spaces that define the neighbourhood’s character:

• Quidi Vidi Village Artisan Studios
  A replica fishing premises featuring working craft studios, where local artisans create and sell one‑of‑a‑kind pieces in a variety of mediums. The studios are located on their own wharf overlooking historic Quidi Vidi Village.
  
  
• Quidi Vidi Lake
  This 3.8 km walking trail loops around Quidi Vidi Lake. During the summer rowers prepare for the Royal St. John's Regatta, held here annually in August since 1826. Observe waterfowl and seabirds that use the Lake year-round as a resting and feeding area.
  
  
• East Coast Trail
  Portions of the world‑class East Coast Trail pass through and connect to the neighbourhood, providing access to coastal scenery, hiking routes, and natural landscapes that extend beyond the city.
  
  
• Royal St. John’s Regatta
  The oldest organized sporting event in North America, with records dating back to 1816. Held on Quidi Vidi Lake on the first Wednesday of August (weather permitting), the Regatta draws tens of thousands of spectators and is widely known as “The Largest Garden Party in the World,” combining amateur sport with long‑standing social traditions.
  
  
• Quidi Vidi Park
  Located adjacent to the Quidi Vidi trails, this park includes small and large dog parks, a skate park, pump track, playgrounds, open space, and historical monuments.
  
  
• Caribou Complex
  This facility has two softball fields, which have been used in various tournaments and notable competitions.
   
• Pleasantville Tennis Court
  This outdoor tennis court can also be used for pickleball. 
  
  
• Wyatt Park
  Located adjacent to the King George V soccer field near Quidi Vidi Lake, this facility offers a softball field and basketball court. It was named in commemoration of former mayor of St. John’s, Dorothy M. Wyatt in honour of her contribution to women’s softball.
  
  
• Neighbourhood Playgrounds: the neighbourhood has playgrounds on Regiment Road, Taylor Place and Cavell Avenue.

With its rich history, evolving residential areas, and strong cultural and recreational identity, Quidi Vidi remains one of St. John’s most distinctive and well‑loved neighbourhoods.

The Rennie’s River neighbourhood is a centrally located and well‑established area known for its walkability, strong residential character, and connection to the Rennie’s River corridor. Bordered by Prince Philip Drive, Torbay Road, Military Road, and Bonaventure Avenue, the neighbourhood includes a mix of residential streets, schools, local businesses, parks, and institutional uses.

Rennie’s River plays an important role in the city’s trail and open‑space network. The river corridor supports walking, cycling, and recreation while also providing a natural link between Bannerman Park, Quidi Vidi, and surrounding neighbourhoods. The area has long been valued for its mature trees, green spaces, and proximity to everyday services, contributing to its appeal as a place to live, work, and gather. 

Community Spaces

Rennie’s River is home to a wide range of parks, playgrounds, and recreation facilities that support both neighbourhood use and city‑wide activity:

• Rennie’s River Corridor and Trail
  A key natural feature that follows the river, supporting connections between neighbourhoods.
  
  
• Sports facilities
  Baseball and softball fields are available in the neighbourhood, including:
  
  • Bill Rahal Softball Field
  • St. Pat's Ballfield

• Bannerman Park
  This park is a hub for activity throughout the year. It has various amenities including an outdoor pool, splash pad, playground, ballfield, open space, trails, monuments and a skating loop for the winter months.

• Neighbourhood Parks and Playgrounds
  There are various playgrounds and parks that offer amenities like open space and court sports. 

• • Churchill Park 
  • Kenny’s Pond Rotary Park 
  • Century Park
  • Cherry Hill Park
  • Elks Club Park
  • Elm Place Playground
  • Larch Park
  • Tunis Court Park

With its strong residential base, extensive park system, and important river corridor, Rennie’s River continues to serve as a walkable, community‑focused neighbourhood and an important recreational destination within the city.

Neighbourhood Plan

The City is currently developing a neighbourhood plan for Rennie’s River to guide future growth and improvements, with a focus on enhancing parks, active transportation, housing options, and protecting natural and cultural features as the area evolves. 

Neighbourhood Plans are legally binding, meaning future development must align with the plan’s policies.

Shoal Bay is a beautifully open area of forest, striking ocean views, and trails alongside Goulds neighbourhood.

A challenging and popular part of the East Coast Trail runs through here and hikers are rewarded with a breathtaking sea spout. 

The Signal Hill neighbourhood is one of St. John’s most iconic and historic areas, overlooking the harbour entrance and Atlantic Ocean. Anchored by Signal Hill and including the Battery, the neighbourhood blends residential living with nationally significant landmarks, dramatic coastal scenery, and extensive walking trails.

While parts of Signal Hill are closely associated with tourism and national historic sites, the area is also home to established residential streets and closely knit communities, particularly in the Battery. Steep streets, colourful homes, and panoramic ocean views give the neighbourhood its unique character.

Residents and visitors alike enjoy access to outdoor recreation, cultural attractions, and some of the most recognizable viewpoints in St. John’s, all just minutes from downtown.

Signal Hill features a range of natural, cultural, and recreational spaces that define its identity:

• Signal Hill National Historic Site
  One of Canada’s most recognized landmarks, Signal Hill is known for its role in communications history and harbour defence. The site offers coastal walking paths, historic fortifications, and sweeping views of the city and ocean. A defining feature of the St. John’s skyline, Cabot Tower marks the hilltop and serves as a historic symbol of the city, while also functioning as a lookout for visitors and residents.

• North Head Trail and Signal Hill Trail System
  Part of the East Coast Trail network, these coastal trails provide dramatic cliffside walking routes, lookout points, and connections to other city trails, offering year‑round recreation opportunities.

• Harbour Lookouts and Viewing Areas
  Numerous viewpoints throughout the neighbourhood offer clear views of the Narrows, offshore islands, and incoming and outgoing vessels, making Signal Hill a focal point for watching maritime activity.

With its combination of historic significance, residential communities, coastal trails, and unmatched views, the Signal Hill neighbourhood stands as one of St. John’s most distinctive and memorable places to live, explore, and experience.

Southlands-Galway is a growing neighbourhood known for its mix of residential development, open space, and convenient amenities. Located near the highway, the area offers easy access to the rest of the city and is popular with families and professionals.

Bordering the agricultural lands of Goulds and the natural areas around Paddy’s Pond, the neighbourhood combines modern living with access to outdoor space. Residents enjoy nearby shopping, services, and a range of recreational opportunities.

Parks and Recreation

Southlands-Galway features a variety of parks and community spaces:

• Southlands Community Centre, located in Teakwood Park, offers a gym and multi-purpose space.

• Teakwood Park includes a basketball court, tennis court, soccer field, skateboard park, and playground.

• Galway Village Green Park has an accessible playground, basketball courts, and walking trails.

• Southlands (Tree Top Drive) Park features a playground and soccer field.

• Several neighbourhood playgrounds:

  • Green Acre Drive Playground
  • Parkview Crescent Playground
  • Almond Crescent Playground
  • Brad Gushue Playground
  • Jenmar Crescent Playground
  • Palm Drive Playground
  • Mark Nichols Playground

Southlands-Galway continues to grow as a well-connected neighbourhood offering a balance of housing, recreation, and nearby amenities.

Located across the working harbour, the Southside neighbourhood is known for its strong connection to the sea, with a history rooted in fishing and military activity. 

Today, Southside is a mix of industrial, marine, and residential uses. It is home to a range of working waterfront operations, including a vessel dry dock, the Canadian Coast Guard, and the Riverhead Wastewater Treatment Facility, which serves the broader region. 

The area is defined by its rugged coastline and natural features. The Waterford River flows through the neighbourhood, contributing to its landscape and offering access to trails and outdoor spaces. Residents and visitors can enjoy scenic views, trails and a strong sense of history shaped by both nature and industry.

At the entrance to the harbour, Fort Amherst and its lighthouse remain iconic landmarks, reflecting the area’s long-standing role in guiding vessels into St. John’s. This neighbourhood is also home to the Railway Coastal Museum.

The Stavanger neighbourhood is a growing residential area located in the northeast section of the city. Known for its large commercial shopping district, restaurants, outdoor recreation, and easy highway access, Stavanger combines suburban living with convenient access to services and employment areas.

Bordering the city limits, the neighbourhood sits alongside White Hills, Wedgewood Park, and Windsor Lake, while remaining only minutes from downtown St. John’s. Popular residential areas, well‑developed commercial spaces, and an extensive trail network make Stavanger a desirable location to live, work, and explore.

Stavanger offers a variety of recreational and outdoor spaces that support both neighbourhood use and city‑wide trail connections:

• Clovelly Walk
  Part of the Grand Concourse Authority trail system, this scenic walking route connects residents to surrounding neighbourhoods and green spaces.
  
  
• Bally Haly Golf Course
  A prominent landscape feature offering recreational opportunities and open views within the neighbourhood.
  
  
• Stavanger Drive (Bloomsbury) Park
  A community park featuring open green space, walking trails, tennis courts, basketball courts, and a playground, providing a central outdoor recreation area for residents.
  
  
• Neighbourhood Playgrounds:
  • Kerr Street Playground
  • Larner Street North Playground
  • Larner Street Playground
  • Lockheed Street Playground
  • Ann‑Jeannette Playground
  • Blue Puttee Playground

With its combination of residential development, major shopping and dining destinations, trail connections, and accessible recreation, Stavanger continues to grow as a vibrant and well‑connected neighbourhood in the northeast of the city.

The Thomas Pond Watershed is a largely natural, undeveloped area located within the St. John’s region. It is characterized by forested land, wetlands, and freshwater systems that support local ecosystems and wildlife.

The University Area neighbourhood is best known as the location of Memorial University of Newfoundland’s St. John’s campus, including the Health Sciences Centre, the largest hospital in the province. Centrally located, the neighbourhood is bordered by Pippy Park, Rennie’s River, and Kenmount East neighbourhoods, and includes a mix of residential areas, schools, parks, sports fields, and recreational trails.

The presence of the province’s only university gives the area a lively, diverse character, with students, faculty, healthcare workers, and long‑term residents living side by side. Trails, green spaces, and recreation facilities are integrated throughout the neighbourhood, offering opportunities for both active living and everyday relaxation.

The University Area includes several major educational, recreational, and community‑focused spaces:

• Memorial University of Newfoundland (MUN)
  Founded in 1925, Memorial has grown into one of the largest universities in Atlantic Canada, with more than 18,000 students from over 100 countries. The campus is a central landmark in the city and plays a major role in education, research, healthcare, and community life.
  
  
• MUN Recreation Facilities (The Works)
  Memorial is home to several large recreation facilities, including the Field House, which features an indoor track, pool, fitness spaces, drop‑in activities, and spectator seating for university sports, as well as the Aquarena, a major aquatic facility offering swimming and recreation opportunities.
  
  
• Rabbittown Community Centre
  Located on Graves Street, the Rabbittown Community Centre works closely with residents and partner organizations to provide social, educational, and recreational programs. Established in 1986, the centre serves a Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation neighbourhood and supports community wellbeing through a wide range of services and programs.
  
  
• Kelly’s Brook Park
  A community park offering softball fields, basketball and tennis courts, and generous open green space for informal recreation and gatherings. Also provides access to the Kelly's Brook Shared-Use-Path. 
  
  
• Lions Park
  A well‑developed sports facility that has hosted national‑level softball championships, featuring dugouts, lighting, seating, and spectator amenities.

With its mix of residential streets, major institutions, recreation facilities, and community supports, the University Area plays a vital role in the social, educational, and healthcare life of St. John’s while remaining an active and connected neighbourhood.

Neighbourhood Plan

The City has completed a Neighbourhood Plan for the University Area.

Based on community input and local data, the plan guides future development and improvements in the area. It addresses land use, building types, transportation, parks, and neighbourhood character to ensure growth fits the area while supporting broader City goals.

Neighbourhood Plans are legally binding, meaning future development must align with the plan’s policies.

The Waterford Valley neighbourhood is a well‑established residential area located in the west end of the city, close to Kilbride, Bowring Park, and Cowan Heights. Known for its mature trees and scenic setting along the Waterford River, the neighbourhood offers a quiet, community‑oriented atmosphere with convenient access to schools, places of worship, walking trails, and nearby retail and commercial services.

A defining feature of the area is the Waterford River Trail, a popular trail that follows the river valley and connects residents to Bowring Park and surrounding green spaces. This natural corridor supports walking, cycling, and year‑round outdoor enjoyment while providing an important link between west‑end neighbourhoods.

Waterford Valley is nearby a variety of neighbourhood amenities that support community life and also has a number of Neighbourhood Playgrounds:

• Anspach‑Macleod Playground
• Fitzgibbon Street Playground
• Martin Crescent Playground
• Parkhill Playground
• Salter Place Playground
• St. Mary’s Playground

The neighbourhood is also home to several historic cemeteries and memorial spaces that reflect its long‑standing role in the development of the city, adding cultural depth and a strong sense of place.

With its established residential character, leafy streets, trail connections, and proximity to major parks, Waterford Valley continues to be a popular and desirable neighbourhood offering a balance of natural surroundings and urban convenience.

Wedgewood Park is a primarily residential neighbourhood located in the northeast area of St. John’s. The neighbourhood includes a mix of housing types, schools, parks, walking trails, recreation facilities, and nearby retail areas, making it a well‑established and fully serviced part of the city. Originally developed outside city limits, Wedgewood Park was incorporated as a town in 1978 and amalgamated with the City of St. John’s on January 1, 1992.

Residents benefit from access to community facilities, neighbourhood parks, and natural areas, with trail connections and proximity to commercial services. The neighbourhood is bordered by White Hills, Stavanger Drive, Kent’s Pond, and the Windsor Lake area and continues to function as a key residential community within northeast St. John’s.

Community Spaces

Wedgewood Park includes several community facilities, parks, playgrounds, trails and public spaces that support recreation, wellness, and everyday neighbourhood life:

• Paul Reynolds Community Centre
  Located on Carrick Drive, the Paul Reynolds Community Centre is a multi‑purpose recreation and aquatic facility serving residents of all ages. The centre includes a gymnasium, the Paula Kelly Aquatic Centre with a 25‑metre swimming pool and therapeutic warm‑water leisure pool, water slides, accessible change facilities, multi‑purpose programming spaces, community gardens, and an inclusive playground. 
  
  
• Virginia River Trail
  The Virginia River Trail runs through and alongside portions of Wedgewood Park and forms part of the Grand Concourse trail system. The trail follows the Virginia River corridor and provides connections through natural areas, linking the neighbourhood to nearby parks, lakes, and other areas of the city.
  
  
• Connemara Place Park
  This neighbourhood park features a playground, an outdoor basketball court, and open green space serving nearby residential areas.
  
  
• Eastbourne Crescent Park
  A neighbourhood park offering open space, a playground, and tennis and basketball courts, providing informal recreation opportunities for residents of all ages.
  
  
• Neighbourhood Playgrounds:
  • Parsonage Drive Playground
  • Cheyne Drive Playground
  • Coakers Meadow Playground
  • Eastmeadows Avenue Playground
  • Gerard Place Playground
  • Labrador Place Playground
  • Marigold Place Playground
  • Regent Street Playground

With its established residential character, strong community facilities, neighbourhood parks, and access to city‑wide trail connections, Wedgewood Park is a neighbourhood that supports daily living and recreation while remaining well connected to surrounding areas. The combination of community infrastructure, natural spaces, and nearby services continues to make Wedgewood Park an important residential area within the northeast of St. John’s.

West Heights is a mixed‑density residential neighbourhood located in the west end of the city, situated between the Mundy Pond and Cowan Heights neighbourhoods. The area offers a practical blend of housing types, community supports, parks, and open green space, along with convenient access to shopping and nearby services.

The neighbourhood benefits from quick access to major roadways and highways, making it a well‑connected location for commuting and everyday travel. 

West Heights is served by several neighbourhood parks and playgrounds:

• Alderberry Lane Playground
• Beothuck Street Playground
• Coventry Way Playground
• Nascopie Crescent Playground
• Rotary Drive Playground
• Welland Street Playground
• Winslow Street East Playground
• Winslow Street West Playground

With its central location, highway connectivity, and range of neighbourhood amenities, West Heights offers residents a balanced residential environment supported by essential infrastructure and accessible green space.

Did You Know?

West Heights is an ideal location for water reservoirs due to its elevation. The neighbourhood is home to the Jensen Camp Reservoir, part of the Regional Water System serving St. John’s. This reservoir provides treated water storage for the Intermediate Zone, helping to maintain water pressure, support daily demand, store water during low‑use periods, and provide reserve capacity for fire suppression and emergency situations.

White Hills is a mixed‑use neighbourhood located in the east end of St. John’s, with portions of the area extending to the Atlantic coastline. The neighbourhood includes a blend of residential areas, commercial and industrial uses, schools, parks, trails, and significant natural features, making it a highly functional and varied part of the city.

Residents benefit from access to shopping, commercial areas, recreation facilities and nearby green space, while natural areas and coastal views add environmental and scenic value.

White Hills contains a wide range of parks, natural areas, and community facilities that serve both neighbourhood and city‑wide needs:

• Lundrigan’s Marsh
  A protected wetland located within an otherwise industrial area, Lundrigan’s Marsh supports a variety of wildlife, including birds and wetland species. It also plays an important role in managing stormwater that flows into the Virginia River system and Quidi Vidi Lake. The marsh was purchased by conservation groups to save it from development in 2004 and is now owned and protected by the City. A public lookout is located at 335 East White Hills Road.
  
  
• Virginia Park Community Centre
  Opened in 1987, the Virginia Park Community Centre supports social, educational, recreational, and career‑development programs. The centre works closely with residents and community partners to provide services for people of all ages.
  
  
• Robin Hood Bay Waste Management Facility
  Located within White Hills, this City‑owned and operated facility plays a key role in regional waste management infrastructure. It features a public drop-off area where residents can bring waste.
  
  
• Conway Glen Park
  A community park contains various amenities, including tennis courts, a softball field and playground. 
  
  
• Drake Crescent Park
  This community park contains the Kenny Meyers Memorial Softball Field, a playground and open green space.
  
  
• Other neighbourhood Playgrounds and parks:
  • Howley Estates Playground
  • Harding Road Basketball Court
  • O’Regan Road Playground
  • Sheffield (Ennis Avenue) Playground
  • Tupper/Laurier Park
  • Wadland Crescent Playground
  • Watson Crescent Playground

With its mix of residential communities, employment areas, natural features, and recreational spaces, White Hills is a neighbourhood that supports daily life while also playing an important role in the city’s environmental stewardship and infrastructure systems.

The Windsor Lake neighbourhood, located in the northeastern part of the city, includes a variety of residential, commercial and institutional amenities. With an international airport, schools, hotels, restaurants, parks, green spaces, and trails nearby, the neighbourhood is well positioned to welcome both residents and visitors. Continued residential development and access to amenities have made Windsor Lake a popular place to live, work, and enjoy outdoor recreation.

Windsor Lake itself is a defining feature of the area, providing scenic views, trail access, and an important source of the city’s drinking water. The neighbourhood’s suburban character, combined with nearby services and transportation routes, supports a balanced and convenient lifestyle.

Windsor Lake is home to a mix of essential infrastructure and recreational spaces that serve both neighbourhood and city‑wide needs:

• Windsor Lake Water Treatment Facility
  Windsor Lake plays a key role in the City’s drinking water system. Treated water from the lake is pumped or gravity‑fed to homes and businesses in the east end and downtown areas of St. John’s.
  
  
• McNiven (Dennis Lawlor) Park
  A community park offering a variety of recreational amenities, including a baseball field, basketball court, soccer field, disc golf, walking trails, green space, and a playground. The park serves as an important outdoor recreation space for residents of all ages.
  
  
• Neighbourhood Playgrounds:
• • Viscount Street Playground
  • Zachary’s Place Playground
  • Branscombe Street Playground
  • Macbeth Drive Playground
  • Newhook Place Playground

With its combination of residential neighbourhoods, essential infrastructure, green space, and convenient access to services, Windsor Lake continues to develop as a vibrant neighbourhood supporting both everyday living and city‑wide needs.