Steeped in maritime culture, the vibrant coastal Canadian city of Halifax is buzzing with energy with a bustling waterfront brimming with tasty seafood restaurants and lively bars!
There are many things to do in Halifax such as watching the traditional changing of the guards at the Citadel National Historic Site, exploring the peaceful walking trails at the Point Pleasant Park or delving into some quality Canadian fine art at the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia.
History enthusiasts will delight in learning more about Halifax’s naval military history at the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic or the inspirational tales of former immigrants at the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21.
Fancy spending time outdoors? Hop on a boat tour from Halifax harbor and go deep sea fishing on the Atlantic! Or hike out to the nearby Cape Split Peninsula to try and spot some whales or majestic bird of prey.
Listen to the nostalgic cries of overhead seagulls and the gentle clinking of boats moored in the docks as you meander along the vast Halifax city waterside boardwalk. Feast your tastebuds on some freshly caught meaty lobster and sip the finest and refreshing local wines from the nearby Annapolis valley or Bay of Fundy.
Ready to dive in? Discover below our complete selection of fun activities in Halifax.
Want to dive straight in? Browse our catalog now!
1 – Embrace the fresh Atlantic breeze at Halifax Harbour
From the bustling harbor visitors can gaze out and appreciate the ocean views, take a leisurely stroll along the boardwalk or dive into one of the many waterfront restaurants for some typical succulent and tender seared scallops or a creamy seafood chowder.
Travel both on land and water on a renovated Vietnam War vehicle duck tour! A ride around the harbor on Hopper tours is a great way to get your bearings upon arrival in Halifax. During the tour, visitors get the chance to pass by key landmarks such as the Citadel Hill and Public Gardens.
Learn about the history of the naval dockyards and the massive and tragic Explosion of Halifax in 1917 with knowledgeable and engaging tour guides who help bring the story of the harbor to life!
2 – Support fresh local produce at the Halifax Seaport Farmers’ Market
The Halifax Seaport Farmers’ Market was first established back in 1750 making it one of the oldest continuously operating Farmers’ Market in Canada! During the weekends the market is open during the mornings up until 2pm. It is worth noting that the market has been recently relocated to Pavilion 23 on the Marginal Road.
During your visit you can browse through the numerous stalls of farmers, artisans and food vendors selling a real variety of products such as tasty international street food, sweet scented soaps, boutique jewelry, freshly baked pastries, woodwork crafts and more. There are always stalls overflowing with seasonal vegetables and colorful fruits straight from nearby farmyards!
3 – Explore military history at the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site
Halifax citadel is a military fortress strategically positioned on a hill overlooking Halifax harbor for defensive purposes.
The citadel we can see today was completed in 1856 by the British military in distinctive star shape. Admire the deep ditches of the dry moat, the ramparts lined with study canons, the barracks and the intricate system of tunnels and passageways.
Visitors to the citadel can assist daily military reenactments such as the change of the sentry guards at the front guard or the gun that is fired by the 3rd Brigade Royal Artillery at noon.
Remember to keep an eye out for the Halifax Town Clock, built in 1803 on the orders of the father of Queen Victoria. The clock tower has four faces which are illuminated at night and it is designed in a Neo-classical style with columns and a cupola.
4 – Delve into the maritime heritage of Halifax at the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic
Located conveniently on the Halifax harbor front, visitors to the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic can expand their knowledge regarding the evolutions of maritime technology and design throughout history and the heritage of fishing within Halifax.
Step aboard the historic hydrographic research ship CSS Acadia that was launched in 1913, the only vessel to survive World War I, World War II and the Halifax Explosion!
In the permanent exhibitions at the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic visitors can learn how Halifax responded to the tragic sinking of the Titanic, marvel at warship models and battle artifacts in the Navy gallery or discover more about the treasures of Nova Scotia’s various shipwrecks.
5 – Admire the vibrant floral displays at the Halifax Public Gardens
Pass through the beautifully ornate wrought iron gates into the Victorian style designed Halifax Public Gardens adorned with carefully planned symmetrical blooming flower beds and neat geometric pathways.
In the heart of the gardens you can find a wrought-iron nostalgic bandstand sometimes used for musical concerts or story time reading events. Wonder around the gardens and gaze into the reflecting pond or admire the statues representing different Roman goddesses.
During the summer months there are free daily one-hour horticultural and historical tours of the beautiful Halifax Public Gardens.
6 – Have a laugh with friends and family on fun and engaging segway tours
Cruise around Halifax on the comfort of a segway and get to know the main sites such as the waterfront, the Public Gardens, the Citadel National Historic Site, Argyle Street as you roll slowly along!
The segways are easy to use and allows the group to cover more ground compared to a traditional walking tour. Follow a guide with the help of radio audio set so you can catch everything they are saying even in busy and bustling areas!
The other benefit of the segways is the fact that they are electrically powered meaning that you can silently zip along without worrying about the carbon footprint.
7 – Take a walk along the boardwalk of Halifax Waterfront
Strolling along the 4 kilometer waterfront boardwalk definitely makes it onto the list as one of the essential things to do in Halifax for soaking up the lively atmosphere and watching the sailboats, ferries and cargo ships.
The boardwalk stretches all the way from the Canadian Museum of Immigration to the Casino Nova Scotia, making it one of the world’s longest waterfront boardwalks!
Make sure to take some photos of the infamous Drunken Lampposts art installation created by artists Chris Hanson and Hendrika Sonnenberg. The lampposts mimic the drunken behavior that often accompanies the energetic Halifax night scene in a playful and amusing manner!
The waterfront also has a few comfy public hammocks for locals and visitors to take a short break and soak up the sun during the summer!
A great way to explore the waterfront is the Pedal Pub Crawl in Halifax which involves hopping on a unique solar-powered pedal bus! Stop off en route for some food and drinks and make friends with fellow visitors!
8 – Uncover personal stories and artifacts of immigrants at the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21
Pier 21 in Halifax has often been referred to as the ‘Gateway to Canada’ due to the fact that it was a primary point of entry for many immigrants arriving to the the port of Halifax between 1928 and 1971. Pier 21 is described as being the Canadian version of Ellis Island in the United States.
The Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 is now located in the very same building that used to serve as an immigration facility. Learn about the personal stories of immigrants who passed through these very doors in the search of a new life!
A new Virtual Reality Experience allows visitors to step back in time and put themselves in the shoes of one of the thousands of former immigrants!
9 – Take a bike ride in the shaded Point Pleasant Park
This forested park land close to Halifax that hugs the coastline is home to the Prince of Wales Tower, the oldest Martello tower (defensive fort built by the British Empire) from 1796.
The park also houses the monument of the Halifax Memorial, commemorating those who died at sea during both World Wars.
Unfortunately the park was badly damaged by a hurricane in 2003 but massive efforts have been made to replant 70,000 Acadian forest trees. Cycle past leafy red oak trees, sugar maple trees and white pines and stop off to take in the scenic ocean views at the tranquil Black Rock Beach.
Look out for wildlife such as the nippy red and grey squirrels that forage amongst the tree branches or rabbits and hares that inhabit the more grassy areas.
10 – Learn more about the flora and fauna of Nova Scotia at the Museum of Natural History
The Museum if Natural History has diverse collections on local archeology, ethnology, mammals and marine life. Understand more about Mi’kmaq culture, the indigenous group who resided in the area around Halifax. Traditionally the Mi’kmaq people led a hunter gather lifestyle, fostering a close connection with the spiritual and natural world.
Children visiting the Museum of Natural History will have fun at the Nature Lab where they can come face to face with live specimens such as snakes, turtles, a colony of bees, frogs, and salamanders. Marvel at ancient fossils, collections of insects and push interactive buttons to hear the sounds of the different mammals of Nova Scotia.
The museum has gained fame for being the home to the oldest known gopher tortoise in the world, who is over 100 years old!
11 – Sit back and unwind in a romantic Candlelight concerts
Watch live and talented musicians illuminated by candlelight in an intimate and unforgettable concert experience. Concerts include classical Vivaldi strings or tributes to Hans Zimmer and Queen.
The candlelit shows take place in iconic venues such as the Spatz theatre, a celebrated performing arts center located within the central Citadel High School. The atmospheric setting creates the perfect opportunity to put you feet up after a long days site seeing and allow yourself to be transported along with to the beauty of the music.
12 – Get inspired by the impressive fine art collection at the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia
A trip to the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia is one of the top things to do in Halifax for art history buffs thanks to the collection of 17,000 artworks ranging from traditional fine art paintings to contemporary photography and decorative arts.
Experience the colorful and charming paintings of Nova Scotia folk artist Maud Lewis who manages to capture the optimism and simplicity of Canadian rural scenes. At the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia visitors can delve in to discover more influential and celebrated 20th century Canadian artists such as Alex Colville, Tom Forrestall and Mary Pratt.
13 – Look up at the Gothic Revival inspired Saint Mary’s Cathedral Basilica
Saint Mary’s Cathedral Basilica was completed back in 1899 making it one of the oldest buildings in Halifax! In 1950 the cathedral was declared a basilica by Pope John XXIII.
It’s worth entering inside to admire the recently restored 100 year old murals behind the altar depicting the Virgin Mary accompanied by angels. Walking down the main aisle, make sure to watch the light shafting in from the impressive German made stained glass windows that were thankfully restored after the Halifax explosion.
Right next to the cathedral there is a small museum which is home to some important religious relics such as the liturgical vestment worn by Saint Pope John Paul II when he visited Halifax in 1984.
14 – Jump onboard the exciting hop on and hop off bus tours
Ensure that you cover all the essential sights in Halifax thanks to a flexible bus tour where you can stop off to explore the different landmarks at your own pace. Popular stop offs include the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site, the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia, Fairview Lawn Cemetery and Province House. Province House is an important government building from 1819 where the legislative assembly of Nova Scotia meet.
The elevated position of a double decker allows you to get a great view of the streets of Halifax and also pause a moment to rest your feet whilst cruising around the most picturesque parts of the city.
15 – Attend original cinema screenings the Atlantic International Film Festival
Every September Halifax converts into a buzzing international hub for film makers, cinema critics and movie fans during the Atlantic International Film Festival
Mingle with specialists and emerging directors in the film industry, book up tickets for the Opening night gala and open you mind with innovative and thought provoking shorts and feature films! The program includes both Canadian and foreign cinema with lots of different genres ranging from comedy to experimental film.
The Atlantic International Film Festival also has an awards presentation to recognize excellence and celebrate creativity!
16 – Peak your child’s curiosity and understand about daily science at the Discovery Centre
Spend a day at the family fun Discovery Centre and explore the interactive galleries covering different science themes such as the Ocean, Energy, Flight and Health. Kids will love learning more about the brain, inside human body parts and the impact of sleep or exercise.
During your visit check out what drop in activities are available at the Innovation Lab to get creative and put your curious scientific skills to the test.
At The Discovery Centre kids can also learn about stars in outer space and different galaxies at the Dome Theatre equipped with 4K laser projection and an excellent sound system!
17 – Pick up an artisanal beverage at the Halifax Brewery Market
The Halifax Brewery Market consists of a co-operative of small scale local vendors and artisans who come together to sell their goods every Saturday morning.
Every week there are more than 60 vendors who gather together and create a great sense of community.
The market is called the ‘brewery’ market because it was originally set up by Alexander Keith, a Scottish immigrant and brewer during the 19th century. The market takes place in a 200 year old square off Lower Water Street, right next to the historic brewery.
18 – Savor a glass of Nova Scotia bubbly during the finest wine tastings
Head out to discover the gorgeous wine estates of the Annapolis Valley, a growing wine region that produces some of Canada’s finest wines!
The crisp Atlantic breeze blowing into the Bay of Fundy and into the Annapolis Valley creates the perfect moderate climate for growing grapes with good acidity. The cooler breezes lead to slower maturation and therefore more time for complex flavors to evolve! Popular wines produced in Annapolis include refreshing Chardonnay, characterful Riesling and complex Pinot Noir.
Learn about the secrets of growing wine in cooler climates thanks to an informative wine guide, take scenic photographs in the vineyards and enter into the cellars to see the aging barrels!
19 – Roller skate round the Emera Oval in the fresh air
The Emera Oval is a large outdoor recreational park area where locals gather to go roller blading, scootering and skating.
During the winter the facility changes and converts into a huge artificial ice rink for ice skating. Enjoy lapping round the large spacious rink, one of the largest outdoor artificial ice surfaces in the whole of North America!
If you don’t have any gear, you can rent skates and helmets on site. It is also possible to book lessons to improve your skate technique or participate at special events like races or themed skating nights which are often programed.
20 – Check out the striking architecture of the Halifax Central Library
Marvel at the unique modern building with a luminous glass facade that opened to the public in 2014. The cubist exterior resembles lego bricks and inside the stairs almost appear like optical illusions due to their criss cross formation. From the top you can gaze down the at the stairs and the 5 different floor levels.
On the top floor of the library is a café with sweeping views over Halifax harbor. During the summer, grab a few books and spend a couple of hours of peaceful reading on the Green roof outdoor terrace!
21 – Take a ride on the Dartmouth/Ferry, the oldest saltwater ferry in North America
The Halifax-Dartmouth Ferry service dates back to the 1750s, connecting Halifax with the charming town of Dartmouth just across the harbor.
From the ferry you can sit back and enjoy views of both the Halifax and Dartmouth waterfronts and watch the boats come in and out of the harbor area.
The quick ferry ride takes less than 15 minutes and they usually run every 20 minutes. The ferry are used by both commuters and tourists daily! In Dartmouth you can visit the weekly farmers market at the Alderney Landing cultural center or browse for souvenirs in the boutique shops and independent craft stores.
22 – Connect with Halifax’s salty seafaring heritage on authentic boat tours
Help the crew hoist the sails on the magnificent and large schooner Tall Ship Silva for an exciting afternoon cruise.
Alternatively if you are looking for a more personalized smaller group, opt for a sailing experience on a Beneteau sailboat. Or why not take a romantic sail on a luxury catamaran at sunset?
There are so many boat tour options to choose from! Foodies will appreciate the Tidal Bay Wine and Cheese Yacht Sail. Sip on crisp white wines from the local Tidal bay appellation of origin surrounded by stunning ocean views.
For those more interested in the beers, try out the Halifax Floating Beer Garden Cruise. This cruise is a great way to socialize, enjoy some live music and take in some fantastic panoramas of Georges Island.
23 – Set foot on the HMCS Sackville, Canada’s oldest warship
The HMCS Sackville played a crucial role in winning the Battle of the Atlantic during World War II when German U-boats attempted to destroy Allied merchant ships transporting supplies to Europe. The HMSC Sackville acted as a convoy vessel, helping to protect merchant ships!
Nowadays you can explore the upper decks, see the quarters and bunks where the sailors slept, peep into the engine room, the captain’s room, kitchen and infirmary!
Tours work on the basis of donations which contribute towards the ship conservation. The HMCS Sackville serves to remind us of the sacrifices made by Canadian sailors during the perilous Battle of the Atlantic.
24 – Spend a balmy summer evening outdoors watching Shakespeare By The Sea
Sit out on the grass or bring a picnic blanket to enjoy Shakespeare theatre performed under the stars in the atmospheric woodland park area of Point Pleasant Park
The Shakespeare By The Sea plays are usually performed from July up until early September. The theatre company aims to provide a mixed repertoire of both classical Shakespeare reproductions as well as fun and original adaptions.
The performances are based on a a ‘Pay-What-You-Can’ system with the aim of involving all the community and the front of house is run with the help of friendly and welcoming volunteers.
25 – Amble along the walking trails at the Sir Sandford Fleming Park
The park was donated to Halifax in 1908 by Sir Sandford Fleming, known as the ‘Father of Standard time’ due to his idea of a standard global system of time zones.
Walk around and look up at the Dingle Tower that was constructed in 1912 to commemorate the introduction of a representative democracy in Nova Scotia in 1758. When open, visitors can climb the tower stairs to get a great view of the parkland area and coast.
Visitors will enjoy following the quiet walking paths round forested areas, health barrens and saltwater marshes. Pause to watch the waterfowl at the Frog pond or sit on the small sandy beach and enjoy a family picnic.
26 – Taste the quality IPA and Stout at Alexander Keith’s Brewery
Take a tour around one of the most historical breweries in Canada, Alexander Keith’s that was established in 1820. Look around the original brew house and cellars that have been classified as a National Historic Site of Canada!
Learn about the different flavors of beer and ale styles, as well as the brewing process with the help of a fascinating and entertaining tour guide. Transport yourself back to the days when Alexander Keith first set foot in Nova Scotia and learn more about this daring Scottish born entrepreneur with a passion for fine beer!
27 – Experience magical glow in the dark mini golf at Halifax Putting Edge
Prepare to blow your senses and enter into a brightly illuminated kaleidoscope of color and bright lights at Halifax Putting Edge. Play mini golf with friends and family whilst admiring the creatively different themed rooms ranging from marine life, tropical plants or outer space.
A visit to Halifax Putting Edge is like entering into a world of fantasy, and the dark scenery makes a fun and exhilarating back drop for some crazy golfing shots! Finish off your round of mini golf with some fun interactive games at the glow in the dark arcade.
28 – End your night out with a sizzling tasty Halifax Donair
The Donair is a late-night favorite amongst Haligonians (local residents of Halifax). It consists of sliced spiced beef cooked on a vertical rotisserie.
The beef is usually heavily flavored with garlic, onion powder, paprika and served in a pita wrap laden with sweet garlic sauce. In fact, in 2015 the Halifax city council voted to make the donair the city’s official food!
Discover more Halifax food secrets during food tours in Halifax where visitors explore the Hydrostone neighborhood and Market before heading to some excellent down town eateries. Try some typical freshly baked halibut fish or a delectable fish roll.
29 – Visit Peggy’s Cove, a small attractive fishing village
The charming Peggy’s Cove can be found 43 kilometers southwest of Halifax, on the shores of St. Margarets Bay. It is believed that the name ‘Peggy’ derived from the sole survivor of a shipwreck during the 19th century.
Take photos of impressive Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse that stands on top of a granite outcrop. Built in 1915 and painted in white with a red top, this lighthouse seems to come straight out of a scenic postcard!
Visitors can enjoy watching the waves roll in onto the rocks on a windy day or enjoy browsing the cute galleries and souvenir shops within the village.
30 – Cool off at the thrilling family-friendly Atlantic Splash Adventure
Wizz down the fun waterslides at the Atlantic Splash Adventure such as the curvy ‘Lobster Lure’ or the epic ‘Puffin Plunge’. Soar down the ‘Cabot Trail Twister’ on a rubber ring or bounce around in the bumper boats.
The Atlantic Splash Adventure park is jam packed full of activities for example a carousel, kids caterpillar train, mini golf and even a spooky haunted house! Kids will love racing around on the Go Karting track or mucking about in the cute splash boats.
31 – Get active at the Canada Games Centre
Pump some iron at the fitness center of the Canada Games Centre bursting with cardio equipment, weight circuits and training spaces. Take a yoga and dance class at the dance studio or play a round of badminton or volleyball at the field house.
The impressive Aquatics zone at the Canada Games Centre has three different pools equipped with diving boards. Practice some lengths in the Competition pool before winding down in the Therapeutic Hot Tub or Dry Sauna.
Located in the suburbs of Halifax, the center was originally built in 2010 to house the Canada Winter Games in Clayton Park. Nowadays the center is open daily to the public.
32 – Pay homage to those who perished in the Titanic at the Fairview Lawn Cemetery
One of the more heart wrenching things to do in Halifax is to go and pay your respects at Fairview Lawn Cemetery, the final resting place of many of the victims from the Titanic.
After hearing of the tragedy in 1912, Halifax dispatched 3 ships to go out and try to rescue the casualties and they managed to come back with 209 bodies. Halifax was the nearest major port to the sinking ship and thats why many of the victims have been buried here.
Sadly many of the simple graves remain unnamed because of difficulties identifying the corpses. The graves are lined up in a semi-circular shape to mimic the form of a ships hull.
33 – Walk round the historic district of the seaside town Lunenburg
Stroll around and look up at the colorful colonial buildings still standing from the 18th and 19th century. Thanks to these well preserved houses, the winding narrow streets and historical waterfront, Lunenburg has been classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Enjoy spending time looking at the fishing boats and large ships along the waterfront such as the Bluenose II, an iconic and elegant sailing schooner. Learn more about the local history of fishing and ship building or simply sit on a comfortable water side bench for some delicious fish and chips.
From Lunenberg, you can also take an excursion to the stunning Blue Rocks Village. Make sure to take some great photos of the blue slate rocks and the quaint little fishing cottages.
34 – Go for a hike to the stunning Cape Split peninsula
Follow the hiking trails along the dramatic cliffs of the Cape Split peninsula for breathtaking views of the Bay of Fundy. The Cape Split trail is a full days hike suitable for experienced ramblers and includes crossing over wooded areas, meadows and rocky terrains.
If you are lucky you may be able to glimpse some whales out to sea from the elevated position of Cape Split! Humpback whales are commonly spotted during the summer and autumn along with Minke and Fin whales.
Look out for bald eagles circling over the rugged cliff faces or black guillemot bird perched on the rocks. Breathe in the fresh and salty Atlantic winds and observe the dramatic fall and rise of the tides from the cliffs above.
35 – Enjoy an ice cream at Fisherman’s Cove
Fisherman’s cove is located around 25 kilometers south east of Halfiax. Upon arrival visitors can take a pleasant stroll along the wooden boardwalk with amazing views out to sea. There are many bright and colorful fishing cottages and a good selection of boutique stores jam packed with unique crafts created by local artisans.
Learn about the history of this appealing fishing village at the Fisherman’s Cove Marine Interpretive Center and sit out in a local restaurant to taste one of the daily fish catches. At the entrance to Fisherman’s cove make sure to take a good photograph of the attractive Eastern Passage Lighthouse.
36 – Observe world class street performers at the Halifax Busker Festival
During a few days every summer, the streets of Halifax fill with color, lively music and surprises as many talented buskers congregate to showcase their entertaining skills!
The Halifax Busker Festival is full of acrobatics, fire shows, juggling, musicians, comedians and contortionists providing plenty of laughs and amazement. The Halifax Busker Festival takes place down by the waterfront providing a stunning backdrop and a fresh ocean breeze.
Many of the street performances are interactive allowing members of the public to get involved as part of the act and sparking crowd engagement!
37 – Get paddling with a scenic kayaking excursion
Rent a kayak and explore the beautiful Long Lake Provincial Park, just a 10 minute drive away from the center of Halifax.
This huge lake is full of enticing little inlets and islands such as Curry Island and Goat Island. Look out for ducks, geese and herons floating on the tranquil waters or even turtles basking out on the rocks along the shore.
Take some top quality photographs of the reflections of trees and clouds in the serene waters! Sit back and listen to the gentle lapping of the waters against the kayak and the chirping song birds in the overhead branches.
38 – Enjoy a light hearted musical comedy at the Grafton Street Dinner Theatre
Allow yourself to be fully immersed in a fun, entertaining and fast paced show teeming with amusing audience participation at the Grafton Street Dinner Theatre.
Arrive at the lounge for a pre-show drink followed by a delicious three course meal. The theatre itself is quite small providing an intimate and cozy atmosphere so you can feel quite close to the actors and musicians on stage.
Check out their calendar to browse for future upcoming performances. Their action packed shows range from 80’s Murder mystery to Christmas specials.
39 – Relax in the sun at the best beaches near Halifax
Head to the spacious, sandy and sheltered Rainbow Haven Beach in Cow Bay! It takes a 35 minutes drive from the center of Halifax. The place is great for family beach trips since it’s well equipped with showers, changing facilities and a picnic area. The sand stretches out for 1.6 kilometers creating an excellent environment for swimming or beach tennis.
If you don’t fancy staking out on the sand, take a walk along the trails in the nearby Rainbow Haven Provincial Park to admire the picturesque sand dunes and grassy areas.
For those who love a beach with a bit of surf, head to Lawrencetown Beach which is also a 35 minutes drive away from central Halifax. Lawrencetown Beach enjoys consistent swells making it an ideal destination for surf enthusiasts and there is also an East Coast Surf School where you can book up a lesson.
The beach itself is a mixture of rocks and sand and behind the beach visitors can hike along the Atlantic View Trail. Warm up with a hot beverage at the Lawrencetown Beach Café and relax watching the surfers catch some waves out in the water.
40 – Learn more about Halifax’s social history at the Africville Museum
Traditionally the African Nova Scotian community lived in the area of Africville, on the northern shore of Halifax Harbor. Tragically the community of Africville was destroyed during the 1960s to due to an industrial urban development project and residents were relocated.
The Africville Museum seeks to remember the community spirit of Africville and help foster bonds between former residents and descendants. The Museum is housed in a replica of the Seaview Baptist Church and is full of former artifacts, photographs and video footage educating visitors on the heritage of African Nova Scotians.
41 – Go hiking around McNabs Island, the largest island in the Halifax Harbour
McNabs Island has a rich history dating back to the indigenous tribes of the Mi’kmaq people who used the island as a base for hunting and fishing! Much later, European settlers used the island as a military outpost during the American Revolutionary War and then in World War I. Learn more about the military history by taking a walk around Fort McNab, Fort Ives as well as the well-preserved officers’ quarters and barracks.
McNab Island was also used as an amusement park known as ‘Dreamland’ during the late 1800s and early 1900s! During the same period the Island was also home to a large soda factory, The McNabs Island Soda Company.
After wandering round the remnants from the Islands past, take it easy and lie down on the sandy secluded beaches of McNabs Beach, Garrison Beach or Maugher Beach. Look out for wildlife such as rabbits, deer and even coyote!
McNabs Island is easily accessible at just a 30 minute boat ride away from Halifax!
42 – Enjoy the fresh ocean air on fishing tours
Discover the best fishing spots in the waters near by McNab island and reel in some incredible cod, pollock and mackerel! Learn how to use a fishing rod, cast off effectively and reel in using the correct bait.
Embarking on a deep sea fishing charter will provide you with a higher possibility of getting some bigger catches!
Halifax has a deep history of fishing, in fact cod fishing was one of the primary activities that originally drew the early European settlers to the shores of Nova Scotia! Fishing has provided a livelihood for many generations of the residents of Halifax so participating in this rewarding outdoor activity allows you to get closer to the roots and essence of Halifax!
43 – Hit the jackpot at the Casino Nova Scotia
Situated in a prime position on the Halifax waterfront, the Casino Nova Scotia has been up and running since 1995. Engage in some table games such as black jack or roulette, try your skills at poker or have some fun on the slot machines.
The Casino Nova Scotia often offers live entertainment such as music nights or comedy shows. Check out the May Garden Chinese restaurant or grab a drink at the 3 Sixty bar. Their special dishes include lobster rolls and fries or the prime beef ribs!
44 – Dine out at the best restaurants in Halifax
The Five Fishermen serves contemporary fine dining specializing in fresh seafood for example local lobster, scallops and oysters. The interior is elegant with an impressive glass wine display as you head up the stairs.
The historic building of the Five Fishermen has gained a reputation for being one of the most haunted locations in Halifax since it was formerly used temporarily as a morgue to store the bodies of the Titanic victims! The building was also badly damaged during the Halifax Explosion contributing even further to its tragic and somber history.
For some typical and authentic Nova Scotia cuisine book a table at the Brooklyn Warehouse. This bistro has cosy low lighting and an unpretentious friendly atmosphere. Tuck into a hearty beef tartare, creamy mussels or a classic haddock chowder.
The Bicycle Thief right on the Halifax waterfront blends North American cooking with Italian flare and flavors. Look out for the iconic red bicycle pinned to the corner of the building. During the summer diners can sit outside and watch the people and boats pass by. Inside the decor is classical with fun touches such as bike wheels covering the ceiling and lots of picture frames. Enjoy a delicious plate of spaghetti with clams or a rich seafood risotto!
How to get to Halifax?
Visitors can fly into Halifax Stanfield International Airport which is a 30 minutes drive away from Halifax city. To save time and avoid stress check out the offers for airport transfers in Halifax. Thanks to airport transfers in Halifax you can be picked up at the airport and taken straight to your hotel door in a comfortable and trustworthy vehicle.
If you are arriving into Halifax on a cruise ship, make sure to take a look at the different shore excursions in Halifax. Take a half day excursion to see the picturesque lighthouse and impressive granite rocks surrounding Peggy’s Cove or opt for a guided walking tour to experience the best of Halifax by foot!
Where to stay in Halifax?
The 3 star Garden South Park Inn is situated in an elegant renovated Victorian home from the 19th century. The exterior is painted a charming pink color with large bay windows and arched window frames. This delightful guest house is situated within a short walking distance from the waterfront or the Public Gardens.
For a luxurious experience check into the 4 star Prince George Hotel, one of the best hotels in Halifax. The hotel is located on Market Street in downtown Halifax with the historic citadel at only a 350 meters distance. Take a swim in the indoor swimming pool or work out in the state of the art fitness center. They also have an on site fine dining restaurant called Gio with an award-winning culinary team.
Another high end sumptuous hotel is the 5 star Muir, Autograph Collection located on Lower Water Street. Warm up after a long days sight seeing in their sauna or eucalyptus steam room and indoor swimming pool. The rooms are modern, stylishly minimalistic and spacious with refined original artworks.
Where to go next?
After exploring the stunning natural area around Halifax make sure to check out some of the best places to visit in Canada!
There are many other things to do in Quebec City for example ambling along the cobbled streets of the historical Old Quebec or stop off at the iconic square of the Place Royale to take in the glorious 17th-century architecture!
Enjoying a drink at the elegant Château Frontenac hotel with breathtaking views over the city skyline or browsing the boutique stores and galleries in the Petit-Champlain district are among the top things to do in Quebec City.
Or take a flight to the nearby city of Montreal where you can walk up to the large park of Mount Royal for amazing vistas of the city! Other things to do in Montreal include watching a dazzling light show on the cathedral facade of the Notre-Dame Basilica or taking a stroll around the trendy neighborhood of Plateau-Mont-Royal to take some photographs of the pretty colorful rows of houses.
Or why not continue your Canadian adventure by visiting the Capital and explore things to do in Ottawa? Visit major sites such as the National Gallery of Canada, Parliament Hill or the Canadian Museum of History. Admire the ornate Victorian buildings, cruise along the Rideau Canal or raft down the Ottawa river.
Final thoughts
We trust you’ve enjoyed our comprehensive guide to the myriad of fun things to do in Halifax.
Whether it’s sipping on refreshing ales at the historic Alexander Keith’s brewery, stepping aboard Canada’s oldest warship, or exploring locally sourced goods at the Seaport Farmers Market, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city.
If relaxation is what you seek, a leisurely ferry ride across the harbor to Dartmouth or lounging under the Nova Scotia sun at a sandy beach or hidden cove might just be perfect.
Events like the outdoor summer performances of Shakespeare by the Sea, the imaginative Halifax Busker Festival, and the Atlantic International Film Festival ensure that there’s always a buzz of activity in Halifax.
We’d love to hear from you – what’s your favorite Halifax activity? Share with us in the comments below!