Things to do in Halifax

Michelle

From Michelle's guidebook

Catch a Halifax Mooseheads hockey game, concert, or major event at this downtown arena—just minutes away and always buzzing with energy.

Kurt

From Kurt's guidebook

Take in a sporting event or concert at the Scotia Bank Centre. Home to: Halifax Mooseheads Jr. A. Hockey Team, Halifax Halifax Hurricanes Lacross Team Halifax Rainmen Basketball Team

Inn Vogue Suites

From Inn Vogue Suites's guidebook

This is where all the big events happen, the Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo, music concerts, sporting events such as Halifax Mooseheads, Halifax Thunderbirds, Halifax Hurricanes. This facility seats over 10000 people.

Michelle

From Michelle's guidebook

Climb to this historic hilltop fort for incredible views and a taste of Halifax’s 18th-century military past—complete with daily reenactments and cannon fire.

Joshua

From Joshua's guidebook

The Halifax Citadel National Historic site is one of the main tourist attractions in Halifax, Nova Scotia. The first fortress named Fort George was built here in 1749 and what we see now is the fourth fort to be on the hill that was completed in 1856. The fort was built to defend the city from enemies, however it was never once attacked.

Susan

From Susan's guidebook

Staff at the Halifax Citadel have crafted many ways to transport you back in time to the life of a Victorian era soldier. Join a guided tour or explore the various sites within the fort on your own. Watch the noon day gun firing of the gun, listen to the stirring sounds of the bagpipes, or join a Signature Experience and become part of the 78th Highlanders for the day. Educators can also join in an engaging Canadian history program.

Ann

From Ann's guidebook

Plan to spend time at the Halifax Waterfront while you’re visiting. The nearly 4km boardwalk is a perfect place to stroll, browse the shops, dine, or simply relax in one of the bright orange hammocks or Adirondack chairs.

Christine

From Christine's guidebook

Must walk the entire Halifax waterfront boardwalk. Can be done in less than 30 mins. Can start at the Casino and end at the Farmers Market.

Jeanne

From Jeanne's guidebook

Halifax waterfront walk across the street from Alexander Keith’s brewery to the Halifax waterfront boardwalk that follows the waters edge along side the worlds second largest ice free harbor. Stretching from the Canadian Museum of Immigrants at Pier 21 - the Gateway into Canada for over 1 million immigrants - to Casino Nova Scotia, you’ll pass unique shops, restaurants, and in the warmer months, graceful tall ships. Hop aboard the fairy, North America’s longest running salt water ferry, in fact, and cross the Harbour to the Dartmouth side which is filled with more locally owned shops, galleries, cafés, restaurants, and pub. A visit to Halifax is not complete without trying the fabled Donaire, the official food of Halifax.

Jeanne

From Jeanne's guidebook

Right beside the museum you’ll find the farmers market which has been around since 1750 making it North America’s longest operating farmers market. Originally house in the Bank of Montreal building downtown, it moved around to several different locations in the city before finally settling into its current spot in the Seaport. Today visitors will find a two-story market overflowing with fresh produce, install serving up the likes of lobster rolls, freshly squeezed organic juice, sweet lemonade and desserts. There’s also an area to pick up flowers and handcrafted good like beautiful wooden cutting boards, jewelry and greeting cards, making it a one-stop shop.

Cameron

From Cameron's guidebook

Located at Pier 19, the Halifax Farmer's Market has stalls that are open daily, but it is bustling in its full glory on Saturday mornings, showcasing the best that local Nova Scotia has to offer, from pastries and preserves, to meats, cheeses, and sandwiches, you can find it all at the farmer's market.

Sam

From Sam's guidebook

Nice views of the harbour. The Roll On Two Chimney Cakes on second floor and Crepe on first floor are delicious. If you want coffee then checkout Java Blend on second floor.

Allie

From Allie's guidebook

Stop by and see Gus the tortoise! One of the most important celebrities in Halifax. Gus was born and raised in Florida, living at the Ross Allen Reptile Institute in Silver Springs. In 1942, Don Crowdis, Director of the Nova Scotia Provincial Museum, purchased Gus for five dollars. Mr. Crowdis brought Gus back to Nova Scotia to live at the museum and he quickly became part of the staff. It was his interactions with a young volunteer that earned him his name. Discover the answers to these questions and more as you explore Nova Scotia’s forest, ocean and more at the Museum of Natural History. Observe live reptiles and amphibians, learn about Earth and space with Science on a Sphere, and discover thousands of years of history with Mi’kmaq artifacts. From the sands of Sable Island to the wings of a honeybee, there’s something for everyone!

Jennifer

From Jennifer's guidebook

Gus the tortoise is famous in Halifax - he’s 100+ years old!! A great little museum complete with bee hive, frogs, and Sable Island fossils. 20 minute walk.

Ann

From Ann's guidebook

The Museum of Natural History is located in downtown Halifax. It includes collections and exhibits concerning the natural sciences as well as artifacts of cultural significance to NS.

Dr. Eappen

From Dr. Eappen's guidebook

The museum boasts over 24,000 shipwreck artifacts including one of the only Titanic deck chairs in existence. Then beyond this, the museum features a massive collection of superb quality scale ship and boat models. The museum even has a dedicated workshop for creating and maintaining these models. I'm sure you will enjoy this World's Best Collection of Scale Model Ships.

Jeanne

From Jeanne's guidebook

Located in the heart of Halifax waterfront, there’s no better place to immerse yourself in Nova Scotia’s rich maritime heritage then the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic. From the small craft boat building to World War Convoys, the Days of Sail to the Age of Steam, the Titanic to the Halifax Explosion, you’ll discover the stories, events and people that have come to define Nova Scotia and its relationship with the Sea. Tip : it’s normally $10 for an adult ticket to get into Halifax museum during the summer months. But for those who come Tuesday after 5 PM it is free. On Tuesday evenings the museum has extended hours until 8 PM and offers free admission each week during this three hour period.

Joseph

From Joseph's guidebook

Located on the Halifax waterfront, the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic tells the fascinating stories of Nova Scotia’s seafaring past. Inside, you’ll find detailed exhibits on shipwrecks, lighthouses, and the city’s deep connection to the Titanic — including real artifacts recovered from the disaster. It’s a peaceful yet deeply moving experience, offering a glimpse into Halifax’s role in maritime history. Don’t miss the model ships and the heartfelt Titanic gallery — a highlight for many visitors.

Ann

From Ann's guidebook

Located in the national historic site at the Halifax seaport, Canada’s sixth national museum shares the ongoing story of immigration to Canada - past to present, coast to coast. Pier 21 was an ocean liner terminal and immigration shed from 1928 to 1971 in Halifax. Nearly one million immigrants came to Canada through Pier 21, and it is the last surviving seaport immigration facility in Canada. The facility is often compared to the landmark American immigration gateway Ellis Island.

Jacqueline

From Jacqueline's guidebook

The arrival point for so many immigrants to Canada over the years, it is fascinating to read the names and some of their stories. A very poignant place for many!

Kevin

From Kevin's guidebook

Family-friendly national immigration museum with temporary & interactive exhibits, plus events.

Michelle

From Michelle's guidebook

More than a library, this modern architectural gem features cozy reading spaces, a rooftop café with skyline views, and frequent cultural events and exhibits.

Joshua

From Joshua's guidebook

Central Library blends the best of traditional library services with new technology and innovative spaces, making it a vital centre for learning and culture. Thousands of people visit each day to enjoy a performance or lecture, engage with each other in lively debate, or simply to relax and appreciate a great book. - A large collection spread over multiple floors (there are elevators). -A beautiful performance space in Paul O’Regan Hall—a 300 seat auditorium acting as a hub for both Library and community-hosted events. -The Halifax Living Room—a reading and relaxing space that overlooks Spring Garden Road and (in the distance) the Halifax Citadel. -2 sound-resistant studios with instruments and technology for music and video making, podcasting, recording, and editing. -14 study pods spread across floors 2-4 that offer comfortable seating for conversation, studying, and meeting. -A First Nations Circle and displays celebrating First Nations culture. -The Local History Room, which houses research material focusing on Halifax, Nova Scotia, and Atlantic Canada. -A Books of Remembrance display dedicated to Halifax County's military men and women who fell during World War I through to present day. -Displays celebrating African Nova Scotian as well as Acadian/Francophone heritage and culture. -120 public-use computers throughout floors 1-4.

Inn Vogue Suites

From Inn Vogue Suites's guidebook

Public Library in the heart of Halifax. Built in 2014, has become highly popular gathering place which also includes cafes, and auditorium and community rooms. Well worth the visit to browse around and relax.

Kevin

From Kevin's guidebook

Point Pleasant Park is a large, partially forested municipal park at the southern tip of the Halifax peninsula. It once hosted several artillery batteries, and still contains the Prince of Wales Tower - the oldest Martello tower in North America

Ann

From Ann's guidebook

If you want to escape the city without leaving it, then head to Point Pleasant Park consisting of 186 acres. It is situated in the south end of the peninsula with 39 kms of wooded trails and paths within its boundaries. It’s a popular (very dog friendly) destination for locals and visitors alike. Hopefully you’ll have time to go there for a run, walk, stroll, picnic or simply relax. I personally love sitting on the rocks overlooking the North West Arm.

Michelle

From Michelle's guidebook

A local favorite for walking, running, and ocean views, this sprawling wooded park at the southern tip of the peninsula is filled with historic ruins, coastal trails, and peaceful picnic spots.

Joshua

From Joshua's guidebook

The Public Gardens encompass 16 acres and are bounded by Spring Garden Road, South Park Street, Summer Street and Sackville Street. They are open annually from approximately May 1 until November 1. The landscaping style is Victorian formal and provides a popular setting for wedding and prom photos. In addition to statues and extensive flower beds, there are three fountains, two stone bridges, three ponds (one large and two small), and a small concession building (located in the original Horticultural Hall). The gardens also feature a bandstand that is used for free public concerts on Sunday afternoons during the summer. There are celebrations in the gardens every year on Canada Day (July 1) and Natal Day (the first Monday in August).

Jeanne

From Jeanne's guidebook

Spanning 16 acres in to the heart of the city, the Victoria gardens have been open to the public since 1867, and were designated as a national historical site a century later. The entrance to the serene, peaceful garden is marked with an ornate wrought iron gate, and from there visitors can follow the winding pathways which path numerous fountains, 140 different species of trees, gardens overflowing with vibrant flowers, carpet beds and statues. Seeing as it is one of the most prettiest spots in Halifax, it is also a popular spot for couples to get their engagement or wedding photos taken.

Gillian

From Gillian's guidebook

Located in the heart of the city, the Halifax Public Gardens is one of the finest surviving examples of a Victorian Garden in North America. Stroll the Gardens’ many pathways as you take in 16 acres of tranquil beauty.

Allie

From Allie's guidebook

"The Dingle" refers to Sir Sandford Fleming Park in Halifax, Nova Scotia, a 95-acre park with a memorial tower dedicated to commemorate 150 years of representative government, and features trails, a playground, and waterfront views.

Blessing

From Blessing's guidebook

Off Purcell’s Cove Rd, on the Northwest Arm. A 95-acre park with four natural habitats (woodlands, heath barren, salt water and pond; please do not feed the waterfowl), walking trails, the Dingle Tower with bronze lions at the foot, a sandy beach (unsupervised swimming), a wharf and a boat launch. The park was donated to Halifax in 1908 by Sir Sandford Fleming, creator of Standard Time Zones. The Dingle Tower was dedicated in 1912 to commemorate 150 years of representative government. If you are new to the area then this is a must visit

Adam

From Adam's guidebook

Just a 5min drive away, this is a lovely park on the Northwest arm with several trails that connect to the 'Frog pond', a nice picnic and walking area along the water, small beach areas, and the historic Dingle Tower. A great spot to walk, run, hike and take in the scenery of the northwest arm. To experience one of our fave running/walking spots, extend your route to include Parkhill and Albion rd!

Jimmy

From Jimmy's guidebook

Neptune Theatre Back Alley Murals (Hidden Gem) Technically a theatre. Secretly an art gallery. Behind Neptune Theatre is a colourful, ever-changing alley filled with murals, street art, and occasional existential graffiti. It's Halifax’s mini Banksy zone.

Andrea

From Andrea's guidebook

A variety of live theatre options, often with last minute tickets available for a rainy day

Michelle

From Michelle's guidebook

Catch a live performance in Halifax’s premier theatre venue, showcasing everything from classic plays and musicals to new Canadian works.

Sam

From Sam's guidebook

Free ice skating in the winter; free skate and helmet rental with a photo ID. Free roller blade, bicycle and tricycle rental in the summer.

Katie

From Katie's guidebook

The oval is right out your front door at the Halifax Commons. It’s a year round attraction for outdoor fun. In the summer you can rent rollerblades and other equipment suitable for children to have some fun outside! In the winter, this oval turns into an outdoor skating rink! Bonus… skates are available for rent on location as well!

Theo

From Theo's guidebook

Public outdoor skating ring! They rent out skates for free (or rollerblades during the summer). Great place to go with kids, whether or not you tried skating before!