Is Fredericton A Walkable City? Guide To Getting Around

Planning A Trip To New Brunswick And Wondering Is Fredericton A Walkable City? Keep Reading To Find Out!

So is Fredericton a walkable city?

Fredericton, New Brunswick’s charming capital, is a city rich in history, culture, and natural beauty.

For those who love to explore a place on foot, walkability can be a major factor when planning a visit.

But just how easy is it to navigate Fredericton by walking?

This post delves into the infrastructure, layout and the most walkable areas that make Fredericton a welcoming destination for pedestrians.

Whether you’re a local looking for stroll-worthy spots or a traveler eager to explore, read on to find out if Fredericton is truly a walkable city!

Is Fredericton A Walkable City?

Yes, Fredericton is a highly walkable city, especially in its downtown core and along the scenic riverfront.

The city’s layout includes compact neighborhoods and an extensive network of walking trails.

Which makes it ideal for those who prefer exploring on foot.

When we visited we walked everywhere and it was fast and easy.

👉 Grab your tickets for some organized activities in Fredericton:
Fredericton Guided Historical Tour
Taste and See Murals Tour Discover Fredericton’s Artistic Side

Why Is Fredericton A Walkable City?

Here’s a breakdown of why is Fredericton such a pedestrian-friendly destination:

Compact Downtown Core: Fredericton’s downtown area is easy to navigate, with most attractions, restaurants, and shops within walking distance. Historic sites, like the Legislative Assembly Building, the Historic Garrison District, and charming cafes, are close together. So you can experience much of the city’s culture without needing a vehicle.

Beautiful Riverfront Trails: The Saint John River runs through the city, providing a beautiful backdrop for several well-maintained trails. The Riverfront Trails (North & South), part of the larger Trans Canada Trail network, are perfect for leisurely walks with scenic river views, parks, and public art installations.

Pedestrian-Friendly Infrastructure: The city has invested in sidewalks, crosswalks, and pedestrian-friendly pathways, making it safe and convenient to walk. The Bill Thorpe Walking Bridge, a converted railway bridge, connects both sides of the river. Providing an accessible way to cross and explore different parts of the city.

Community Events and Local Markets: Fredericton’s cultural scene includes a variety of events and markets. Many of them are held within walking distance of the downtown area. The Boyce Farmers Market, for instance, is a popular Saturday stop for locals and visitors alike.

What Are The Most Walkable Areas In Fredericton?

Here are some of the most walkable neighbourhoods in Fredericton:

Downtown Fredericton: This is the heart of the city and one of its most walkable neighborhoods. Here, you’ll find historical landmarks, restaurants, boutiques, and cultural sites like the Fredericton Playhouse and the Beaverbrook Art Gallery. Downtown is designed for pedestrians, with plenty of crosswalks, wide sidewalks, and a compact layout that makes it easy to explore on foot.

Historic Garrison District: Located within the downtown area, this historic district is a must-visit spot for pedestrians. The Garrison District features 19th-century buildings, museums, and green spaces. It’s a hub for summer festivals, artisan markets, and cultural events, all of which are easily walkable from nearby streets.

The Riverfront: Running along the Saint John River, the riverfront area offers scenic walking trails that connect key parts of the city. The Riverfront Trails stretch for kilometres and pedestrians can enjoy picturesque river views, parks and public art. Even make their way across the Bill Thorpe Walking Bridge to reach both sides of the city.

Boyce Farmers Market Area: A popular Saturday destination, the Boyce Farmers Market is located within walking distance of the downtown area. It’s surrounded by charming streets and is a great spot to explore on foot. Especially for those looking to experience the local culture, try fresh produce, and shop for handcrafted goods.

Odell Park: While not in the city center, Odell Park is a lovely area for walking and hiking, with numerous trails and a tranquil, wooded environment. It’s close enough to downtown that you can walk there. Alternatively, take a short drive to enjoy one of Fredericton’s largest parks.

Why Should I Explore Fredericton On Foot?

Exploring Fredericton on foot offers a unique way to experience the city’s charm, history, and natural beauty up close.

Here are some of the top reasons why a walking tour of Fredericton can be the most rewarding way to see the city:

Discover Hidden Gems: When you explore Fredericton on foot, you’ll encounter charming side streets, unique boutiques, and local art galleries you might miss when driving. Walking lets you slow down and discover local gems, from cozy cafes to vibrant murals and historic architecture.

Explore the Historic Districts: Fredericton is rich in history, and many of its oldest buildings are within walking distance of each other. From the Historic Garrison District to the beautiful architecture of downtown, walking allows you to explore the city’s heritage at your own pace and take in the details of Fredericton’s past.

Stay Active and Eco-Friendly: Walking is an environmentally friendly way to travel, and Fredericton’s compact downtown and pedestrian-friendly streets make it easy to leave the car behind. It’s also a great way to get some exercise while enjoying the fresh air and exploring the city at a relaxed pace. Also, walking around is the cheapest way of exploring the city.

Meet Locals and Experience the Community: Walking lets you interact more naturally with locals and get a feel for the community. Whether it’s chatting with vendors at the farmers market, visiting local shops, or simply enjoying a park bench by the river, walking connects you to the friendly spirit of Fredericton.

What Are Other Ways To Get Around Fredericton?

While walking is a fantastic way to see Fredericton, there are several other convenient ways to get around the city:

Cycling: Fredericton is bike-friendly, with an extensive network of trails and bike lanes, especially along the scenic waterfront and through Odell Park. Several bike shops in the area offer rentals if you don’t have your own.

Public Transit (Fredericton Transit): Fredericton has a reliable bus system with multiple routes connecting key areas like downtown, shopping centers, universities, and residential neighborhoods. Fredericton Transit costs $3 per ride (need exact cash) making it easy to get around the city without a car.

Taxis and Ride-Sharing: Taxis are available throughout Fredericton, and several companies operate in the city. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber are available as well.

Car Rentals: For those wanting to explore areas outside the city or travel at their own pace, renting a car is a flexible option. This is a good choice if you are planning to visit nearby destinations like Kings Landing or Mactaquac Provincial Park.

Scooters and Electric Bikes: Depending on the season, Fredericton may offer electric scooter rentals. Which provide a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the downtown area. These rentals are typically app-based, and you can pick up and drop off scooters at designated spots around the city.

👉 Rent a car after exploring the world’s biggest car rental website: Rentalcars

FAQs: Is Fredericton A Walkable City?

Let’s take a look at some of the most frequently asked questions about whether Fredericton is a walkable city.

Is it safe to walk around Fredericton?

Yes, Fredericton is generally a very safe city to explore on foot, with a low crime rate and a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.

Violent crime is rare, and the city’s pedestrian-friendly infrastructure makes walking easy and safe.

Fredericton’s key trails and streets are well-lit in the evening, and there’s a visible police presence in high-traffic areas, adding to the sense of security for pedestrians.

The community vibe is strong here, with locals often willing to help if you need directions or advice.

However, it’s always wise to stay aware of your surroundings and avoid secluded areas at night.

Are there areas to avoid in Fredericton?

Fredericton is generally a safe and welcoming city, with no significant “no-go” areas.

However, like any city, there are a few points to consider for a smooth and enjoyable visit:

Isolated Trails and Parks After Dark: Fredericton’s parks and trails, like Odell Park and parts of the Riverfront Trails, are beautiful and well-travelled during the day. However, it’s best to avoid secluded or less-populated sections of these areas at night, as they can be dark and quiet.

Certain Residential Areas: Like many cities, Fredericton has a few neighborhoods where minor crime, such as vandalism or petty theft, can occasionally occur. However, these instances are infrequent and generally don’t affect visitors.

Staying in well-lit, well-populated areas, especially at night, is a simple precaution that helps ensure a smooth visit.

Is it safe for solo women to visit Fredericton?

Yes, Fredericton is a safe and welcoming destination for solo female travelers.

The city has a low crime rate, a visible police presence in popular areas, and a friendly community, making it comfortable to explore alone.

Areas like downtown and the Historic Garrison District are safe, walkable, and well-frequented, especially during the day.

While it’s best to avoid secluded trails or parks after dark, these spots are enjoyable and safe during daylight hours.

With basic precautions, such as staying in well-lit areas at night, solo women travelers can feel secure and at ease visiting Fredericton.

👉 Grab your tickets for some organized activities in Fredericton:
Fredericton Guided Historical Tour
Taste and See Murals Tour Discover Fredericton’s Artistic Side

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Where To Stay In Fredericton If You Want To Walk Everywhere

Let’s take a look at where to stay in Fredericton, which is within walking distance of the main attractions.

Hilton Garden Inn Fredericton

• 3-star hotel, close to downtown with free WiFi
• Rooms have a TV, a desk, free toiletries, a safety deposit box, certain rooms include a balcony
• fitness centre, shared lounge, a terrace and a bar; ATM. Public parking in a parking garage is available for CAD 13 per day
• Also, Fredericton International Airport is 12 km away

👉 Book your accommodations here: Hilton Garden Inn Fredericton

Conclusion: Is Fredericton A Walkable City?

In conclusion, Fredericton is indeed a walkable city offering a blend of historical charm, natural beauty, and a friendly community atmosphere that makes it ideal for exploring on foot.

From its compact downtown area to scenic trails along the riverfront, Fredericton provides numerous pedestrian-friendly routes for visitors to enjoy.

Also, the city’s low crime rate, well-maintained sidewalks, and accessible parks ensure a safe and pleasant walking experience.

Whether you’re discovering local landmarks, enjoying the outdoors, or simply soaking in the city’s vibrant culture, Fredericton makes it easy to navigate on foot.