Top 10 Things To Do In Halifax, Nova Scotia
Halifax, the vibrant capital of Nova Scotia, encompasses a diverse region that includes the City of Halifax, Dartmouth, Bedford and the Halifax County Municipality. The amalgamation into the Halifax Regional Municipality (HRM) took place in 1996, creating the largest municipality in the province.
Halifax can look back on a rich maritime heritage. The city was an important port of call for European immigrants and has a historical connection to the tragic Titanic disaster. While the city pays homage to its past, it is just as vibrant in the present, offering a variety of exciting attractions and activities.
Discover the top ten places to visit in Halifax with our curated list of the best tourist spots and things to do.
In this blog, we will cover the following:
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1. Halifax Citadel National Historic Site
The Citadel, an imposing structure in downtown Halifax, is a tribute to the city’s rich military heritage. Four different forts have stood on this hilltop since 1749, dating back to the reign of Edward Cornwallis, a distinguished British officer. The current fort, which you can visit today, was built in 1856.
As you wander the halls of the citadel, you’ll discover Halifax’s significant role in major conflicts, including the American Revolution, the American Civil War and both World Wars. If you want to delve even deeper into the history of the fortress, be sure to visit the on-site Army Museum.
2. Maritime Museum of the Atlantic
It’s no surprise that Halifax is home to Canada’s oldest and most important maritime museum. The essence of the city is interwoven with stories of the sea. This specialized museum brings these stories to life through its collection of artifacts and engaging exhibits. It explores the numerous shipwrecks along Nova Scotia’s shores, the city’s history as a vibrant trading port and its pivotal role in the world wars.
The crown jewel of the museum, however, is often considered the exhibition dedicated to Halifax’s response to the tragic sinking of the Titanic in 1912. This exhibit features artifacts from the “unsinkable ship” and chronicles local efforts to salvage passengers and the remains of the vessel.
3. Halifax Public Garden
The Public Gardens in Halifax are a living tribute to the Victorian era and offer visitors a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Established in 1867, this 16-acre public oasis, adorned with an ornate metal entrance, features carefully tended flowerbeds, tranquil pathways, a charming pavilion and numerous idyllic picnic spots.
Locals and tourists alike appreciate the picturesque beauty of the park and the tranquility it offers in the middle of the city. In summer, the Friends of the Public Gardens organize guided tours of the grounds. The dates for the tours can be found on their website.
4. Halifax Waterfront
The Halifax Waterfront is a vibrant and lively destination with a variety of cafes, restaurants, bars, breweries, stores, historic ships, boat tours, ferries and lively street performers. This dynamic area is home to numerous top attractions that offer insights into the city’s rich maritime heritage and its history as an immigration port.
It is also a prime spot for tourists seeking picturesque photo opportunities, with its captivating harbor views, intriguing art installations and inviting bright orange hammocks perfect for relaxing and unwinding. Youngest visitors enthusiastically recommend exploring this lively harbor district.
5. Alexander Keith’s Brewery
One of the most enjoyable activities we experienced in Halifax was the Alexander Keith’s Brewery tour. During the tour, you can enjoy a refreshing beer while you learn about the fascinating history of Alexander Keith himself. This brewery is considered one of the oldest in North America, making it an essential stop on your Halifax trip.
Nova Scotians are known for their lively spirit and this tour lives up to that reputation, offering a plethora of beer tastings that will lift your spirits. The tour begins with a delicious beer tasting, followed by samples of Red, Pale and Edinburgh Ale. To top it off, everyone takes part in a spirited and free ceilidh, making the tour an unforgettable experience.
6. Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21
From 1928 to 1971, Pier 21 welcomed an astounding 1 million immigrants who made their way to become valued members of the Canadian community. This sprawling ocean liner terminal, often compared to Canada’s Ellis Island, has become a treasured National Historic Site of Canada and the nation’s esteemed immigration museum.
As you enter the hallowed halls of the museum, you will walk in the footsteps of those who sought a new beginning in Canada. Immerse yourself in the captivating stories of some of these immigrants, each with a unique story to tell. Who knows, you might even discover some surprising connections to your own heritage.
7. Halifax Seaport Farmers Market
When you’ve finished your visit to Halifax’s vibrant waterfront, be sure to stop by the Halifax Seaport Farmers Market, where you can pick up everything you need for your picnic. Even if you’re not on a shopping spree, this market is an absolute must. The market is one of the longest continuously operating farmers markets in North America and has a long history of changing locations over the years.
In 2021, the Halifax Farmers Market moved down the street and now offers an open-air shopping experience alongside the covered vendors in Pavilion 22 during the summer months. Here you’ll find a diverse range of goods, from locally made jewelry to fresh seafood and homegrown produce.
8. Harbour Hopper Tour
The Harbour Hopper boat tour in Halifax offers an exceptional and engaging way to explore the city and its picturesque waterfront, making it one of the most sought-after tours for families. What makes the Harbour Hopper so special is its unique feature as an amphibious vehicle. This means that the tour starts on solid ground, winds its way through downtown Halifax and then seamlessly transitions into the water for an enchanting boat tour of the harbour.
Just the transition from land to water is a thrilling experience, especially for those trying it for the first time. It offers a condensed, yet thorough way to experience many of Halifax’s major attractions in a single tour that is a distinctive and entertaining blend of land and water experiences.
9. Devour a Lobster Roll at Peggy’s Cove
Peggy’s Cove consistently claims the top spot on the must-visit list for anyone in Halifax. Even if you’re only in the city for a brief period, witnessing the breathtaking landscapes and the crashing waves at Canada’s most photographed lighthouse is an absolute must. However, a heartfelt plea from the locals: Exercise caution! Tragically, some tourists have lost their lives while attempting to capture selfies too close to the powerful waves. A general rule to abide by is to steer clear of the black, wet rocks.
One cherished activity at Peggy’s Cove is indulging in a delectable lobster roll. We highly recommend trying the lobster rolls from Peggy’s Cove’s U-Cook-Lobster. Keep an eye out for their van on the left-hand side as you make your way up the road towards the lighthouse.
10. Dartmouth
Located across the harbor from Halifax, Dartmouth is a charming town with a rich history dating back to 1750. Visitors have two compelling reasons to explore this Nova Scotia gem, aside from enjoying the scenic ferry ride across the harbor.
Firstly, Dartmouth’s natural beauty is a major draw. Dubbed “The City of Lakes,” Dartmouth boasts an impressive array of 23 distinct ponds, many of which are surrounded by inviting public parkland, making them perfect for a leisurely picnic. Additionally, the Shubenacadie Canal is a scenic wonder created in the early 1800s.
It was designed to connect Halifax Harbor to Shubenacadie Grand Lake, and ultimately to the Bay of Fundy near Nova Scotia’s interior. Walking the picturesque trails at Shubenacadie is a favorite activity among recent visitors.
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