The Rooms

Towering over the historic center, The Rooms is a unique space where a museum, an art gallery, and the provincial archives are united under one roof. It is the heart of cultural life, opening doors for guests to the past and present of the Newfoundland and Labrador region. The city of St. John's is proud of this architectural masterpiece, which has become its landmark since opening in 2005.

The building's appearance deserves special attention: the architects were inspired by traditional "fishing rooms"—simple wooden sheds that stood along the coast for centuries where Canada worked in its early years. Local granite and wood were used in construction, while massive glass facades allow the building to literally glow against the cityscape.

The location for the complex was not chosen by chance. It stands on the foundation of the historic Fort Townshend—one of the largest British fortresses of its time. Today, The Rooms is not just a repository for artifacts, but a living triumph of culture, offering visitors breathtaking panoramic views of the harbor, Signal Hill, and the endless ocean through the vast windows of the upper floors.

For those planning a visit to this cultural center, it’s helpful to have current contact details at hand. You can always check for information about current exhibitions or special events by phone or on the official website.

It's best to start your exploration of the complex at the Provincial Museum, where the history of Newfoundland comes to life. Here, you'll find detailed tundra dioramas, collections of northern bird taxidermy, and in-depth exhibits dedicated to indigenous peoples and Irish settlers. Each exhibition is an honest story of a harsh but beautiful life on the edge of the Atlantic.

Art lovers should head to the Art Gallery. Its halls showcase over 7,000 works, including pieces by masters like Christopher Pratt and David Blackwood. The exhibitions here change frequently—ranging from classical graphics to bold modern installations—so every visit promises new discoveries.

Be sure to head to the upper levels to enjoy the panoramic view of the harbor and The Narrows. In the local cafe, we recommend taking a window seat—it's the perfect spot to relax with a view of the city. Don't forget to walk around the building as well: the granite outlines of the old Fort Townshend are laid out outdoors, allowing you to literally walk along the boundaries of history under the open sky.

The cultural complex is located at 9 Bonaventure Avenue, on an elevation that makes its modern silhouette visible from almost anywhere in the city. If you are staying downtown, the walk from the famous Water Street will take about 15–20 minutes. The route goes uphill, allowing you to admire the historic architecture of residential neighborhoods along the way.

For those who prefer public transport, Metrobus stops nearby, connecting the complex with major districts and attractions like Signal Hill. If you are arriving from St. John's International Airport (YYT), a taxi or Uber ride will take about 20 minutes.

For travelers by car, on-site parking is available, and additional spots can be found on the surrounding streets. It is most convenient to use GPS coordinates to navigate directly to the main entrance of this landmark building.

The site where the building stands today is steeped in history: it was once the location of Fort Townshend, a powerful 18th-century star-shaped British citadel. It was one of the largest fortresses in North America, built to protect Britain's fishing interests. In the mid-20th century, this site was recognized as a National Historic Site of Canada.

The project's name, "The Rooms", is not just a catchy title but a profound reference to the island's traditions. It comes from the term "fishing rooms"—small wooden buildings at the water's edge where generations of Newfoundland fishermen processed their catch. The architects masterfully translated this image into a modern design, giving the building its characteristic gabled roofs.

Interestingly, before the current complex appeared, its functions were served by an old museum on Duckworth Street. However, with the opening of "The Rooms" in 2005, the city gained more than just a museum—it gained a full-fledged cultural hub. Before construction began, extensive archaeological excavations were conducted on the site to preserve and document all cultural layers remaining from the ancient fort.

To ensure your visit is enjoyable and you have time to see all the key areas, it is recommended to allocate 3 to 4 hours for your visit. This time is sufficient to leisurely walk through the museum halls, appreciate the modern installations in the art gallery, and peek into the archival departments.

If you plan to finish your tour with lunch or a cup of coffee at the local cafe with its panoramic views, it's best to allow an extra half hour. For those short on time, you can focus on just one section (for example, the history of the region), which will take about 1.5–2 hours, including admiring the views from the upper floors.

The doors of the cultural center are open to visitors throughout the week, with a schedule that accommodates those who prefer evening visits. On Wednesdays and Fridays, the complex stays open late, allowing you to combine viewing the exhibitions with contemplating the city's night lights.

Opening Hours:

• Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday: 10:00 – 17:00
• Wednesday, Friday: 10:00 – 21:00
• Sunday: 12:00 – 17:00

The complex's hilltop location makes it an ideal starting point for further exploration of the region's historical heritage. A walk through the surrounding area will allow you to feel the atmosphere of North America's oldest city and see monuments from different eras.