AREA 506 Waterfront Container Village

On the waterfront of Saint John lies a unique location that embodies modern industrial design and local flair. The AREA 506 Waterfront Container Village is a vibrant public space created from over 60 repurposed shipping containers. This project transformed a former parking lot into a major draw for both tourists and locals, making it a point of pride for Canada.

Located on the banks of the Saint John River, the village buzzes with creativity and entrepreneurship. It was designed by the non-profit organization AREA 506 to showcase the talents of New Brunswick. The colorful container facades reflect the port's maritime heritage, while the famous "Graffiti Alley" is considered one of the most Instagrammable spots in the region.

The area houses about 40 different tenants, ranging from cozy cafes and food trucks to boutiques selling exclusive clothing and handmade cosmetics. Guests can enjoy a three-tier observation deck offering breathtaking views of the harbor and a stage for live performances that turns the waterfront into a massive open-air concert venue.

For current information on events and special offers, you can visit the project's official resources.

A visit to the Container Village promises to be a real adventure for fans of shopping and authentic culture. While strolling between the modular pavilions, you will find unique souvenirs, local artisanal products, and beauty goods that are hard to find in standard shopping malls. Be sure to stop by the Stonehammer Geopark information stands to learn more about the region's natural riches.

The village's culinary scene deserves special attention: food trucks offer a wide selection, from aromatic coffee to hearty snacks. To unwind, head to The Docks Container Lounge, where you can relax with a drink while watching the ships move through the port. For those seeking vibrant content, Graffiti Alley is a must-see, featuring walls adorned with works by talented artists.

If you're lucky enough to visit during the Waterfront Concert Series, you can enjoy live music, open-air movie screenings, or themed trivia nights. The observation deck allows you to see massive cruise ships almost within arm's reach, adding a sense of scale and international flavor to your visit.

Finding this lively spot is easy: AREA 506 Waterfront Container Village is located at 85 Water St, right next to the Marco Polo Cruise Terminal. If you arrive in the city on a cruise ship, the village is just a few minutes' pleasant walk along the pier.

For those staying Uptown, the location is easily accessible on foot—its central position in the port area makes it a natural extension of a city stroll. If you are using public transport, the nearest bus stops are on Water St, and you can easily call a taxi for trips from more distant neighborhoods.

Parking spaces are available for drivers along the waterfront or in nearby downtown parking lots. To plan your route as accurately as possible, it is recommended to use Google Maps navigation, as port traffic can change depending on the arrival of large ships.

The history of this creative space did not begin with building structures, but with music. In 2015, the idea for the AREA 506 festival was born, aiming to breathe life into the vacant industrial areas of the waterfront. The first festival took place in 2016, showing residents and tourists the potential of a deserted asphalt lot.

A major turning point came in 2021 when the creation of a permanent cultural and retail hub made of shipping containers was announced. Construction moved quickly: by May 2022, the modules were delivered to the site, and on June 8, 2022, the village officially opened its doors. Symbolically, the opening coincided with the arrival of the giant cruise ship Oasis of the Seas in the port.

In a short time, the project led by Ray Gracewood expanded: while about 27 vendors operated in the first year, their number grew to nearly 40 by 2023. In 2024, the site was updated with new art installations and a modernized lounge, solidifying its status as a benchmark for urban revitalization in Canada.

To leisurely explore every corner of the container village, browse the souvenir shops, and grab a bite at one of the food trucks, it usually takes 2–3 hours. This is enough time to soak in the atmosphere and snap some colorful photos in Graffiti Alley.

If your visit coincides with the Waterfront Concert Series or another festival event, you should plan for an additional 1–2 hours. Evening events here are particularly atmospheric, inviting you to stay longer for live music and sunset views over the harbor.

You should plan your visit for the warmer months, as the project operates seasonally—typically from May to November. This is the perfect time to enjoy outdoor relaxation by the water.

The standard operating schedule is as follows:

• Monday and Tuesday: Closed
• Wednesday — Sunday: 11:00 – 19:00

A walk along the waterfront is just the beginning of your exploration of the city's historic center. The proximity of numerous cultural and architectural landmarks makes it easy to put together a full day's itinerary.