By Expedia Team, on December 9, 2014

Halifax

City Of Halifax

The capital of Nova Scotia, Canada is a conglomeration of 200 neighbourhoods. Metropolitan and suburban Halifax include the Halifax Penisula, Dartmouth and Bedford-Sackville, the mainland areas of Cole Harbour, Dartmouth and Windsor Junction.

Officially known as the Halifax Regional Municipality, the heart and urban core lies in the Halifax peninsula. This is home to Halifax’s heritage neighbourhoods and landmarks. The Citadel Hill’s Town Clock overlooking the city and Dalhousie University campus are key reference points of downtown Halifax – along with Dartmouth historic neighbourhoods and the Halifax Harbour. The entire Halifax Regional Municipality has a population of almost 400,000.

An agglomeration of concrete, steel and glass vertical lines mark the Halifax waterfront, however, urban planning restrictions on building heights in some downtown areas have helped maintain a more visually appealing urban landscape that agrees with cities and towns built in coastal areas.

History

The inscription on the commemorative marble obelisk reads, “In memory of the Earl of Halifax…spent his life in public service.” His significant contribution in founding the town of Halifax in 1749 made him the father of the colonies. The founding of Halifax, however, was marked by wars between British, French settlers and the local native communities. Everyone wanted to extend their control over the new territories and both French and British settlers erected fortifications in the area to protect their commercial and territorial interests.

Initially the colony of Nova Scotia was composed of separate colonies: Nova Scotia, Cape Breton Island, St. John’s Island, Newfoundland and New Brunswick. The beautiful island of Cape Breton was first discovered by Venetian explorer John Cabot in 1497. Today visitors can visit the Cabot Trail which traces the explorer’s path during his explorations.

The island of Cape Breton officially became part of Nova Scotia when a 1,385-metre (4,544-ft) road was built to connect the island to mainland Nova Scotia.

In 1917 Halifax made history when thousands of people were killed and wounded in a blast of devastating proportions. The magnitude of the Halifax explosion made headlines around the world as the largest blast prior to the explosions that later resulted from nuclear weapons.

Modern day Halifax is a relatively recent amalgamation of about 200 communities spread out throughout the area. The Halifax Regional Municipality was officially born in 1996.

Location

Halifax is located in the Maritime province of Nova Scotia, in eastern Canada. After Newfoundland, it is the easternmost location in the country. The roughly 400km (250 miles) of rocky coastline are washed by the Atlantic ocean.

The Halifax peninsula stretches out over the Atlantic. On the north side, the Bay of Fundy separates the peninsula from the province of New Brunswick. Prince Edward Island is about 320 km northeast and Newfoundland is a 1-hour flight to the east.

Looking westward, Montreal, Quebec is roughly 1,250km away. Toronto is 1,795km  and Vancouver is 6,160 km away.

Weather

The area’s coastal location has a considerable influence on Halifax weather. Winter snowfalls are abundant with January and February being the coldest months of the year. Expect year round rainfall which tends to turn into snow during the winter. The warmest summer month is August with warm weather often extending into September. Average summer temperatures fluctuate between 15 – 25 ºC as the result of Halifax’s proximity to the Atlantic ocean.

Did You Know?

In 1917 a French cargo ship carrying munitions and explosives collided with a Belgian vessel resulting in the largest explosion in history prior to the nuclear explosions of the 20th century. The blast killed and wounded well over 10,000 people.

How to Get Around Halifax 

Flying into Halifax

If you’re flying into Halifax Airport from other Canadian cities there are several companies that operate on this route. WestJet, Porter Airlines and Air Canada operate flights from major Canadian cities to Halifax. From Toronto it’s a 2.5-hour flight to Halifax. If you’re flying out of Ottawa you’ll be in Halifax in 2 hours. There are also direct flights from Montreal, Quebec and London, Heathrow. Seasonal flights operate to and from Caribbean destinations, Mexico and the United States.

Halifax Airport Information

Halifax Stanfield International Airport (YZH) is located in the community of Enfield, about 30-40 minutes from downtown Halifax (1 Bell Boulevard). The airport has been operating since 1960 when it replaced the previous Halifax Civic Airport. Over the years the 50-year old airport has been undergoing constant renovation to meet the demands of an ever-increasing airport traffic. Halifax International Airport is the 7th busiest airport in Canada and in 2006 it was approved for U.S. Customs and Border pre-clearance.

If you’re travelling from Halifax to the airport take Highway 102 until you reach exit 6.  Geographic coordinates: Latitude 44º – 51″ North,  Longitude 63º – 33″ West, Elevation 477′ ASL.

Access the Park’N Fly parking lot by making a right turn at the lights near Tim Hortons then follow the signs.

To access the car rental and parking areas follow the signs then turn left to access the Parkade. This is where you can access the car rental pick up/drop off areas.

Halifax Metro Transit

From Halifax Stanfield International Airport, Metro Transit operates the MetroX service every half hour to and from downtown Halifax from 6am to 9am and from 3pm to 6pm. The bus operates every 60 minutes during non-peak hours. Adult bus fare is CAD$3.50 and CAD$2.75 for children and seniors. A monthly pass costs CAD$111.

Halifax Airport Maritime Bus services 40 locations in the Maritimes. Bus fare from the airport to Halifax Maritime Bus terminal is CAD$17.37. Contact number is 1-800-575-1807.

Halifax Transit is the way to get around the city and beyond. Owned by the municipality of Halifax, the Transit operates the city’s bus service, the ferry, MetroLink (rapid transit) and Metro X (rural express). Tickets and passes can be purchased in several retail stores around the city such as Lawton Drugs and Shopper’s Drug Mart.

Transit fares are (exact cash) CAD$2.50 for adults, CAD$1.75 for seniors (65+) and children (5-15 years) and CAD$2.50 for students.

A booklet of 10 tickets costs CAD$20 for adults and students, CAD$14.50 for seniors and children. Metro Passes cost CAD$78 for adults, CAD$70 for students and CAD$58 for seniors (65+) and children(5-15 years)  .

MetroLink (rapid transit) fares are CAD$3.00 for adults and students and CAD$2.25 for seniors and children. MetroLink passes are available only to adults and cost CAD$94.50.

Metro X (rural express) fares cost CAD$3.50 for adults and children(5-15 years) CAD$2.75. Passes are CAD$111 for adults.

Airport Shuttle Bus

There is a seasonal shuttle bus service that operates out of Halifax International Airport  to downtown Halifax from November 1 to October 31. Airport Express shuttle bus fare is CAD$22 (one way). Other shuttle bus services at the airport must be booked by contacting each company. Halifax International Airport contact number is 902-873-4422.

Taxi

Taxi services at Halifax International Airport are available at the Arrivals level. Although there are many taxi companies that operate in Halifax, Yellow Cab Ltd. has been a mainstay of the Halifax taxi scene for fifty years. The average cab ride from the airport to downtown Halifax is CAD$63. Yellow Cab contact: 902-877-7778.

Limo Service Halifax

There are dozens of Limousine and prearranged car services at Halifax International Airport. They are available at the Arrivals level curbside area. These services must be pre-arranged or booked by contacting each company. A complete list of airport limousine, taxi and minivan can be accessed by contacting the Halifax International Airport at 902-873-4422.

Car rental 

The Halifax International Airport Car-Rental area is located at the Lower Level of the Airport Parkade which is easily accessible from the signs at the Arrivals level.

Halifax Car Share

Halifax car share programs are run by Car Share which operates on a membership basis. The  annual fee is CAD$39 and prices are based on distance, day/hourly rate and vehicle usage. Prices start at CAD$2.75 per hour with a minimum of 30 minutes to a maximum of 10 hours. Day rates start at CAD$27.50.

Halifax Bike Share

For some time now Halifax’s Dalhousie University has been working on cutting through the bureaucratic red tape to create a Halifax-wide bike share program for everyone. The program provides resources to help the local community circulate via human-powered transportation, that is, walking, cycling, in-line skating and so forth. Dal Bike Centre is also equipped with bike repair stands. Dalhousie University contact number is 902-494-2211.

Note that they are currently operating an in-house bike share program that is not available to the general public, however the Dal Bike Centre is still a valuable resource for getting around Halifax.

Halifax  Nightlife 

Halifax by Night
Halifax by Night          

The Halifax nightclub scene isn’t as varied as some other Canadian cities, what this city does have is a strong presence in the pub department. Consequently, it is no surprise that the local casino steals the show. Casino Nova Scotia is located on the waterfront downtown Halifax at 1983 Upper Water Street. The Vegas-style gaming complex has restaurants, bars and lounges with live entertainment. On the gaming side the casino has hundreds of slot machines, 8 poker tables, roulette,  baccarat, blackjack  and mini craps for responsible gambling and lots of fun.

The Lower Deck (1887 Upper Water St) is a weekend-only live entertainment venue. During the week this pub is a dinner and drinks destination with the informal, welcoming atmosphere that makes pubs favourite hangouts.

A relatively recent music venue the Company House (2202 Gottingen St) features live performances from singers and songwriters in most music genres. The venue is also a place for dancing and other special events like poetry reading and even political debates.

Located downtown near the Citadel Clock, Scotiabank Centre (1800 Argyle St) is hard to miss. The multi-purpose facility has a seating capacity of 10,000+ and hosts a number of events such as sports, concerts and seminars/conferences of general interest on matters of social and global importance.

Located at Pier 23 Cunard Centre (961 Marginal Rd) is a 45,000sq.-ft. waterfront entertainment venue with year long happenings, events and functions.

Alderney landing is located in downtown Darmouth (2 Ochterloney St) 15 minutes from the centre of Halifax. The theatre hosts its own resident company, Onelight Theatre, as well as other entertainment companies. Regular performances include plays, ballet, classical music concerts and jazz. This venue is also home to art exhibitions, conventions, a restaurant a Spa, a provincial liquor store and a weekly farmer’s market. The multipurpose venue also has a large outdoor stage for summer concerts and shows.

Dalhousie Arts Centre (6101 University Ave) has been a staple of Halifax’s cultural scene for 50 years. The Centre’s Rebecca Cohn Auditorium is the primary venue for the Symphony Nova Scotia. Performances that take place at the Arts Centre during the Symphony’s 33-week season include all the great classical music masters like Tchaikovsky, Handel, Mozart, Haydn and Vivaldi.

And evening at any Yuk Yuks (1181 Hollis St) anywhere in Canada is always great fun and the laughs are guaranteed. If you’re looking for uncensored comedy, drinks and dinner, this is it. Dinner and show usually come as  a package deal when you book your evening.

Pacifico (1505 Barrington St) is a dance club with a spacious dance floor and music so loud the floor vibrates. The club also hosts events and parties for small and large groups.

A traditional pub on the Halifax scene since 1979, The Split Crow (1855 Hollis St) is close to the waterfront and features pub food and traditional Gaelic music. Spread out on two floors, there is an outdoor patio where you can enjoy your drink or dinner.

Located in the historic Halifax neighbourhood Marquee Club (2037 Gottingen St) is a lively club with live bands playing rock and alternative music genres.

Initially called “The Spread Eagle” this bar has been around for over 200 years. Later  renamed The Split Crow (1855 Granville Street), the place has a warm pub atmosphere and  features live bands on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday. The Power Hour beer specials tend to attract younger crowds and university students.

Stayner’s Wharf (5075 George St) features live jazz entertainment each week from Wednesday to Saturday. Local and international musicians perform a variety of jazz styles from blues and R&B to soul and pop. Open until 10:30pm Stayner’s is also a restaurant where you can have dinner before the show.

Located downtown Bearly’s House of Blues (1269 Barrington St) attracts talent from the Maritime provinces. Performances include beautiful blues music every night from Tuesday to Saturday. The venue also features stand up comedy and karaoke nights.

The Toothy Moose (1661 Argyle St) is a lively club featuring live music and country Fridays. Free ladies’ nights happen on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays before 12am.

Taboo Taboo (1735 Grafton St) is a dance club that features packages like their “Sex in the City” and “Entourage” that include limousine pick up, drinks, VIP table, and appetizers.

Karaoke and live music nights happen at Michael’s Bar and Grill (6100 Young St). The restaurant is open for breakfast, brunch and dinner. Several times a month the venue hosts a jam session that welcomes local and international musicians who sign up for the performance.
Obladee Wine Bar (1600 Barrington St) is a happy marriage between wine and jazz music. The best part about jazz nights is that they’re free, you only pay for the drinks and finger food. The wine and chocolate pairing nights are a real epicurean delight.

Reflections Cabaret is located at 5187 Salter Street, this live DJ dance club is frequented by younger crowds, especially university students who like to ditch their books and take advantage of free student nights on Fridays until midnight.

Everything Halifax Sports       

Based in Halifax, the Halifax Mooseheads are part of the Québec Major Junior Hockey league. It was thanks to the Moosehead Breweries financial support that the team was able to relocate to Halifax. The Mooseheads began their first season in 1994 with relative success.

It wasn’t long before the team expanded through franchises in the Maritime areas. The Mooseheads won the President’s Cup in 2013. Halifax’s Scotiabank Centre is where the hockey team plays its home games.

Halifax’s professional basketball team is an expansion franchise of the American Basketball Association. The Halifax Rainmen were born in 2006 and won their first game against the Boston Blizzards in 2007. The Rainmen’s subsequent games experienced a series of winnings and losses and withdrew from the American Basketball Association to join the Premier Basketball League. The Halifax Rainmen play their games at the Halifax Scotiabank Centre multipurpose arena.

Halifax’s competitive soccer club is the result of the merging of two defunct teams, the former amateur cricket team, the Halifax Wanderers, and the Halifax Celtic Soccer Club. Founded in 2006 the Halifax City Soccer Club provides recreational and sporting opportunities for people who want to play soccer in an environment with core values centred on sportsmanship, teamwork and competition.

Halifax Sports Arenas

Located downtown, Halifax Scotiabank Centre (1800 Argyle St) is home to the Halifax Mooseheads hockey team and the Halifax Rainmen basketball team. With a seating capacity of 12,000  the arena goes way beyond sports events functioning as an entertainment venue for concerts. Since it first opened in 1978 the arena has hosted concerts by Billy Idol, Aerosmith, Frank Zappa, Tina Turner, Alice Copper, Elton John, Prince and Metallica, among others. The arena space is equipped with over 2,000 parking spaces.

Centrally located, this multipurpose arena is part of the World Trade and Convention Centre complex. It overlooks the Halifax Harbour and the ideal location makes it a breeze to find hotels and restaurants.

Located 1 minute away from the arena, Delta Barrington hotel is at 1875 Barrington Street. Radisson Suite Hotel Halifax is at 1649 Hollis Street, 2 minutes from Scotiabank Centre. Less than 1 minute north along Brunswick Street is the Hilton- Homewood Suites, Halifax Downtown. Residence Inn Halifax Downtown is located at 1599 Grafton St, that’s 4 minutes away from the arena.

Restaurants and bars near the Scotiabank Centre arena: Bistro Le Coq (1584 Argyle St), Five Fishermen Restaurant (1740 Argyle St), Stillwell Bar (1672 Barrington St), The Stubborn Goat Gastropub (1579 Grafton St), Gahan House (1869 Upper Water St), The Maxwell’s Plum (1600 Grafton St). Henry House is located at 1222 Barrington Street and Halifax Alehouse is at 1717 Brunswick Street.

Did You Know?

The Halifax Mooseheads had the highest average attendance in the Canadian Hockey League (CHL) during the 1999 – 2000 season.

Halifax Parks 

A national historic site, Halifax-Public-Gardens include a series of gardens established by The City of Halifax in the late 1800s. The Victorian Gardens were originally owned by the Nova Scotia Horticultural Society in 1836. A total of 16 acres of parkland are accessible to the public for recreation and leisure.

During the Victorian era many landmark sites were established in honour of Queen Victoria and the Gardens along Sackville Street and Summer Street were meticulously landscaped with trees, fountains, stantues and ponds. The park entrance is marked by the beautiful wrought iron gates. Additions have been made through the years, such as exotic and semi-tropical flora. Free tours are organized yearly at Halifax Public Gardens during the warmer seasons.

Situated at the southern portion of Halifax, the aptly named Point-Pleasant-Park (Point Pleasant Dr) offers beautiful views of the harbour and the Atlantic Ocean. The area is frequented by off-leash dogs and their owners who find this an ideal place for their canine buddies. If you’re lucky you might spot foxes, seals and even whales out in the nearby Atlantic Ocean. This historic site is surrounded by forts that reference the days of battles and the need to protect these areas. Clean and well organized, the area is also equipped with buses, food kiosks and public washrooms. Seasonal events and festivals are organized here all year long.

Point Pleasant Park
Point Pleasant Park

Shubie Park Campground (30 John Brenton Dr. Dartmouth) is a well organized campground with a swim beach, paths and trails. There is a bus line nearby and the ferry connection to Halifax. The area has other attractions and plenty of shopping areas.

Halifax Beaches

There are dozens of supervised municipal beaches and outdoor pools around Halifax. These beaches are supervised by lifeguards until the end of August. While they are still accessible to the public after this time, caution should be exercised when going for a swim when the beaches are not supervised.

Trails & Paths

Halifax has a series of paths and trails that slice through the city’s park system in the various neighbourhoods and communities that make up Halifax Regional Municipality.

One of the prettiest paths in Halifax, the Waterfront Boardwalk has various entrances and access points along the waterfront on Upper St. and Lower Water St. The 3.8km boardwalk runs along the Ferry Terminal and bus stops.

The Chain of Lakes Trail is 7.5km, it starts at Joseph Howe Drive and ends at the Lakeside Business Park.

Open all year long, the Point Pleasant Park trail runs through the perimeter loop of the park and is 3.36km in length.

The Halifax Urban Greenway trail is along Beaufort Avenue, between Marlborough Woods and South Street, it is 1km in length.

Bedford/Sackville have 6km of trails for walking, hiking, bird watching and cross country show shoeing.

Public Skating in Halifax

Halifax has a number of municipal public skating arenas around the city.

Bowles Arena: 15 Ragus Rd, Dartmouth (902-490-6100)

Devonshire Arena: 3395 Devonshire Ave. (902-490-4633)

Gray Arena: 15 Monique Ave, Dartmouth (902-490-4551)

LeBrun Arena: 36 Holland Rd, Bedford (902-490-4664)

These arenas have free skate programs for families except for LeBrun Arena ($3 per person, $8 per family). All municipal skating arenas enforce a CSA-approved helmet policy.

Halifax Golf Courses

Situated right in the city (3250 Joseph Howe Dr), close to the Halifax Shopping Centre, Ashburn Golf Club is a 36-hole facility set amidst the beautiful landscape of rolling hills and ponds.

Glen Arbour Golf Course is a half hour drive north from downtown Halifax, in Hammond Plains. There is a Par3, 9-hole courses for novice and serious players and a Championship 18-hole course.

Halifax Shopping   

Visitors with tight budgets can stroll along Spring Garden Road and visit the second-hand and independently owned shops along the way. The streets are also lined with retail chain stores, florists, home decor, pet supply shops, unique items, jewelry, children’s items, fashion, convenience stores, restaurants, ethnic eateries, bars, cafés and pubs.

Historic Properties buildings along the Waterfront have gifts and souvenirs for visitors who want to take something back home with them.
The most popular mall and largest shopping centre in Atlantic Canada is the Halifax  Shopping Centre (7001 Mumford Road). The mall has over 640,000 sq.-ft. of space and 160 shops, banks, restaurants and services. You can find popular retailers such as Footlocker, Fossil and H&M. There is a Halifax Transit terminal on site with a dozen transit routes that stop at the mall. Hours of operation are from 9:30am to 9pm Mon-Sat and 12pm to 5pm Sun.

Located in the Dartmouth community (21 Mcmac Blvd), across the Angus McDonald Bridge from the Halifax Waterfront, Mic Mac Mall has roughly 160 shops including the oldest Canadian retailer, the Hudson’s Bay Company, Target and Shopper’s Drug Mart. Hours of operation are from 9:30am to 9pm Mon-Sat and 12pm to 5pm Sun.

Highland Square Mall (689 Westville Rd, New Glasgow) is your mid-budget mall with retail stores and fast food chain restaurants. This mall specializes in large department stores like Sears, Walmart, Canadian Tire, and other retail chains. Mall hours are 9:30am to 9pm.

Scotia Square is located in the downtown Halifax commercial development and it consists of a 3-storey mall, Barrington Place Shops, and the Delta Hotel building. They are connected to several office towers via pedestrian tunnels. The complex is located between Duke Street, Barrington Street and Albemarle Street.

Park Lane is located at  5657 Spring Garden Road close to Brunswick Street and Sackville Street. This is a small, 3-storey shopping mall where you can find gifts, footwear, jewelry, beauty, wellness and fitness centres and a limited number of fashion shops.
There is always a great buzz at the Halifax Seaport Farmers’ Market. Situated in a great location along the Halifax Seaport (1209 Marginal Rd), this is a large indoor market that is packed with fruit, vegetables, seafood, baked goods, crafts, jams and preserves. The rooftop area is a lovely place to sip coffee and enjoy the scenery, especially the delightful lighthouse on the island across the channel. The location also has galleries, offices, cafés and even a museum. Saturdays are great for catching all 250 + vendors.

If you’re walking along the Waterfront go to Lower water Street between Bishop Street and Morris Street and stop at the Piazza at Bishop’s Landing at 1475 Lower Water Street. Designed as a residential area with condos and retail space the area overlooks the marina. The one-of-a-kind shops reflect the quality and lifestyle in this part of town. There are high-end jewelry shops, wine shops and boutiques. This is a lovely area for dinner and a stroll along the Waterfront. There are two Italian restaurants, a steak and seafood restaurant and a café.
If you like all things crystal head over to Nova Scotian Crystal at 5080 George Street. This retailer is known for the beautiful hand-blown Waterford Crystal items. Travelers who are concerned about luggage weight can always have these  items shipped to their home address. Watching these guys bring their craft to life is worth it, even if you you don’t particularly fancy crystal.

Rousseau Chocolatier (1277 Hollis St) is a Halifax destination for hand-made chocolates, artisan chocolate bars, chocolate lollipops, gourmet brownies and most of all, French Macarons.

Halifax restaurants

The city abounds in mid-range pubs and seafood restaurants thanks to its Atlantic Ocean location. Unlike its eastern counterparts, Ottawa, Toronto and Vancouver, Halifax has a casual, mid range restaurant scene with a few higher priced options. This is not the kind of town for fancy dining.

Mid-Range Restaurants in Halifax

Chives Canadian Bistro (1537 Barrington Street) provides a casual atmosphere with a menu based on steak, seafood, soups and salads, a small dessert list and specialty coffees at reasonable prices.

Durty Nelly’s Irish Pub (Argyle St and Sackville St) is a place with atmosphere, food and entertainment. The menu includes Irish and British classics such as  bangers, cottage pie, smoked ribs, fish and chips and a Ploughman’s Charcuterie board.

Brooklyn Warehouse (2795 Windsor St) is immersed in funky decor. The restaurant owners pride themselves in adhering to the international Slow Food movement and keep an arm’s-length stance with respect to the mass produced food industry. The restaurant is often crowded and reservations are recommended.

As the name says, Cut Steakhouse & Urban Grill (5120 Salter St) is for meat lovers. Other menu items from the grill include calamari, scallops and arctic char. Beef carpaccio and caprese are among the appetizers. Oysters and smorgasbord are served all day long.

Fine Dining in Halifax

Located on Barrington Street at number 1241, Cafe Chianti has atmosphere and rustic, Italian cuisine with a North American twist. The menu includes Sicilian rice balls, grilled focaccia bruschetta,  antipasti,  pastas dishes, pizzas and panini.

Bistro le coq (1584 Argyle St) serves classic French cuisine like escargots, croque monsieur, crêpes, niçoise salad and onion soup, in a relaxed and informal atmosphere. The restaurant is open for brunch, lunch and dinner.

A Nova Scotian staple, Five fishermen (1740 Argyle St) is located inside a historical building with a warm, rustic interior. The restaurant serves the local catch of the day as well as steak. There is a monthly wine and food pairing series with 7 course tastings.

Budget Eating in Halifax

Freddie’s Fantastic Fish House (8 Oland Crescent) is outside the Halifax downtown area. This diner has friendly staff and the fish is plentiful, fish and chips, seafood platter, lobster roll and scallops. You can eat here on a budget, depending on what you select.

Head over to Annie’s Place (1592B Queen St) for fresh ingredients and personable service. A few blocks from the Gardens, this small diner serves home made breakfast with fresh baked bread and scones. There are also lunch and dinner take out and catering options. The all-day breakfast menu has options for travelers with tight budgets who want to drop in for lunch.

You don’t have to be a vegan or vegetarian to eat at enVie A Vegan Kitchen (5775 Charles St). This restaurant also caters to people with food allergies (gluten, dairy, eggs) and others who want to get away from animal products. There are also take out options of what is served at the restaurant.

Halifax Food Trucks

Aptly called Nomad Gourmet, the roaming eatery can be found anywhere in the streets of  downtown Halifax with its brightly coloured truck. The menu consists of burgers, chicken and burritos with a veggie burger option for non meat eaters.

The Food Wolf is usually stationed between Young Street and Windsor Street, about 10 minutes north of downtown Halifax. The mostly burger and hot dog menu is completed by the presence of a few ethnic options such as quesadillas and Middle Eastern wraps.

Like the name says Bud the Spud specializes in potato fries. You can find the truck  stationed on Spring Garden Road (and Brunswick St). Bud uses hand cut Prince Edward Island potatoes for his popular fries. The only other items sold here are drinks to wash down the delicious fries.

Halifax Hotels

Downtown Halifax is dotted with quality hotels at reasonable rates. They are usually within walking distance or a short drive from the main city sites in the downtown, historic areas. You can find the large hotel chains and smaller, cozy inns which are usually historic buildings or older buildings with a past.

Best Rated Hotels

Centrally located, overlooking the water, the-Westin-Nova-Scotian (1181 Hollis St)   is a hotel with many perks. The interiors are spacious and bright. The beautiful indoor pool has a relaxing, European spa ambiance. You can also choose a room with views of the water. The hotel restaurant features an international cuisine and a currency exchange office for an international clientele. There is also a car rental desk, shuttle service within the area and an on site baby sitting service. There nearest golf course is within 3km. Rates start at CAD$119 –  CAD $189.

The Westin Nova Scotian
The Westin Nova Scotian

The Halifax-Marriott-Harbourfront-Hotel (Upper Water St) is located right on the water, steps away from the Ferry and a few minutes from the Maritime Museum. It is also connected to the Casino Nova Scotia. This pet friendly hotel has rooms with coffee making facilities and a flat screen TV. Hotel rates start at CAD$157 – CAD$233.

Halifax Marriott Harbourfront
Halifax Marriott Harbourfront

Located at 1980 Robie Street, Atlantica-Hotel-Halifax is roughly 15 minutes away from the Waterfront. The hotel has a fitness centre, indoor pool, hot tub and sauna. It is equipped with an ATM and it offers a convenient limo service to downtown at no extra charge. The hotel is pet friendly. Hotel rates start at CAD$119 – CAD$159.

Atlantica Hotel Halifax
Atlantica Hotel Halifax

Situated at 1515 South Park Street, Lord Nelson Hotel & Suites is close to the city’s public gardens. There are rooms with video games and a concierge that can arrange transportation or reservations. The patio with a delightful garden is ideal for alfresco dining in the summer. There is an on site fitness room, a restaurant and a bar, as well as currency exchange service, ATM, laundry and dry cleaning services.  Airport shuttle service is provided with a surcharge.  Hotel rates start at CAD$139 – CAD$169.

Quality-Inn-Halifax-Airport  (6- Sky Blvd Goffs, Enfield) is a half hour drive from downtown Halifax. While this may be a chain hotel is certainly doesn’t lack the character of a boutique hotel. Halifax International airport is 2-3 minutes away. Hotel amenities include an on site bar and bistro, free airport transportation, free high speed Wi-Fi, free daily breakfast and free local calls. This pet friendly hotel has an indoor heated pool and hot tub, a gym, a business center with a public computer, a photocopier and a fax machine. Rates start at CAD$115 – CAD$165.

Located 10 minutes from the waterfront and the Ferry docks, Hampton-Inn-By-Hilton-Halifax-Downtown (1960 Brunswick St ) is also a few minutes away from the Scotiabank Centre, World Trade and Convention Centre and Casino. Each room has coffee making and ironing facilities. Hotel rates start at CAD$109 – CAD$177.

Hampton Inn by Hilton Halifax
Hampton Inn by Hilton Halifax

A medium sized hotel with nicely decorated rooms, Cambridge-Suites-Hotel is situated in Halifax’s Brunswick Street, in the business district, a short distance from the World Trade and Convention Centre and the Citadel. Rooms are equipped with mini refrigerators and microwave ovens. The hotel has a fitness room with hot tub and sauna. Views of the city can be enjoyed from the  rooftop patio. Rates start at CAD$ 149 – CAD$179.

Situated a few minutes from the National Historic Site The Hollis Halifax (1649 Hollis St) is a hotel with a modern, hip interior décor. This is a superb downtown location with everything within a short distance: Casino Nova Scotia, the Maritime Museum and Scotiabank Centre, among others. The hotel has bilingual staff: English-French. Pets are not permitted in the hotel. Rates start at CAD$126 – CAD$151.

The Hollis Halifax
The Hollis Halifax

Hotel-Prince-George (1725 Market St) is in a good downtown location. This 4-star  hotel has a vaguely European ambiance and a touch of class in the décor, amenities and overall details. There are several garden patios where guests can enjoy their meals during the warmer months. Wi-Fi is free in all rooms. Rates start at CAD$169 – CAD$209.

Prince George Hotel
Prince George Hotel

Steps away from Lower Water Street, Four-Points-By-Sheraton (1496 Hollis St) is surrounded by restaurants, pubs and bars. Each room has a microwave oven, refrigerator, work desk and free internet access. The hotel restaurant serves Mediterranean cuisine. Hotel staff speak English, French and Spanish. Hotel rates start at CAD$88 – CAD$155.

Popular Hotels

Just 10 minutes from the Waterfront Future-Inns-Halifax (30 Fairfax Dr) is a small hotel with the amenities of a large hotel chain.  It has an on site restaurant, a gym, vending machines and an ATM. The amenities and service are a great value for the money. Rates start at  CAD$95 – CAD$105.

Future Inns Halifax
Future Inns Halifax

Coastal Inns (98 Chain Lake Dr) is on the Halifax peninsula about 40 minutes from downtown Halifax. Among the hotel amenities are washer, dryer, ironing facilities and a business centre. A gym, indoor pool and external patio are the ideal fix for guests with free time for relaxing or enjoying a cup of tea outdoors. Internet and parking are free of charge. Rates start at CAD$99 – CAD$129. Pets are permitted on request.

The Commons Inn (5780 West St) is located downtown Halifax. The 40-room hotel is situated in an old building without an elevator, and it is distributed on 4 levels. From the hotel a cab ride to the main downtown attractions costs less than $10. Microwave ovens and mini refrigerators are available in deluxe rooms. Parking is free. Pets are not permitted in the hotel. Rates start at CAD$90 to CAD$109.

A half hour drive from downtown Halifax, Comfort Inn‘s coastal location boasts beautiful views of the ocean. The 63-room hotel façade in white colonial-style architecture is in tune with the landscape of the area. Hotel amenities include an indoor pool, a fitness centre and free Wi-Fi. The common areas have vending machines with snacks and drinks, a laundry area, a business centre equipped with fax and copy machine. Rates start at CAD$99.

Unique Hotels

Waverly Inn (1266 Barrington St) is a 19th century hotel with a history of illustrious guests like the Vanderbilts, Oscar Wilde and a former Nova Scotia Premier. Despite a long, troubled history, the 34-room hotel displays charm and style. The rooms boast 19th décor,  furnishings and canopy beds. Some rooms have a Spa bath.  Rates start at CAD$109 – CAD$135.

Garden South Park Inn(1263 South Park St) is a small, 23-room hotel with a Victorian façade and charming interiors. This clean hotel is located across the hospital and it is within walking distance of many Halifax sites and services. There is limited on site parking, Internet access is free in all areas. Pets are not permitted in the hotel. Rates start at CAD$102 – CAD$150.

The Halliburton is a charming boutique hotel with the character that many older buildings possess. The cozy library corner in the downstairs common area is a great place to relax with a book or a cup of coffee. The hotel has a garden patio and a restaurant that serves seafood, among other things. Unlike the standard décor of hotel chain rooms, the Halliburton has individually decorated rooms. Rates start at CAD$143 – CAD$179.

Halifax Organized Tours & Trips

While the city of Halifax has its share of tourist attractions and historic sites, the real show stopper in this part of Canada is the natural scenery of the coastal landscape. One of the best ways to visit the Maritimes is by sailing the much-charted waters surrounding Halifax and the province of Nova Scotia to learn the history and epic voyages of explorers and adventurers who sailed to the New World many moons ago.

One hour away from downtown Halifax is the County of Lunenburg on the south shore of Nova Scotia. The picturesque town with a 200-yer old fishing and shipbuilding port was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995 for the uniqueness of its historical, architectural and geological importance.

Lunenburg boat tours explore the historic Lunenburg harbour, the Oven Natural Park sea caves, the historic town and the unique coastal views. The Eastern Star 48-foot vessel has a capacity of 30 people and leaves the Lunenburg wharfs 5 times a day from June to October. Lunenburg boat tours are organized via Star Charters. Phone: 902-634-3535.

Other tours of the South Shore include bus tours and walking tours of historic Lunenburg and Mahone Bay, the Fisheries and museum. Lunenburg and Mahone Bay tours are from 10am to 4pm.

Peggy’s Cove overlooks the rocky shores of St. Margaret’s Bay. This is the site of the Swissair Memorial which commemorates the September 1998 Swissair Flight 111 disaster. When the aircraft crashed into St. Margaret’s Bay all passengers and crew members lost their lives. Peggy’s Cove tours are from 1pm to 4:30pm. Grayline Tours contact number is 1-800-472-9546.

Just north of Nova Scotia, opposite the Bay of Fundy in the province of New Brunswick, is the site of the geological formations known as the Hopewell. Rocks. The 40-70-ft. tall sandstone rocks are the result of a tidal erosion. Twice a day they are covered in water as the tide rises and visitors have the opportunity to see them during low and high tide.

However, Hopewell Rocks is also an important ecosystem with marine wildlife such as cormorants, eider ducks, blue herons and endangered species like peregrine falcons and bald eagles. You can also learn about the fascinating native legends surrounding the tides and the influence of the moon on the ocean’s tides. The season for guided tours runs from May through September from 9am to 5pm, from 8am to 8pm from June 20 to August 21. Hopewell Rocks phone contact is 1-877-734-3429.

Halifax city tours are available on double-decker buses and cover the city’s historic landmarks. The narrated tours include city attractions such as the Public Gardens, City Hall, the Old Town Clock, Government House, St. Paul’s Church, Spring Garden Road, the Province House, Point Pleasant Park, the Halifax Citadel National Historic Park and Grand Parade. Tours run every hour from 9am to 2pm from June through October. The Maritime Museum is the tour departure point for this hour long tour.

The Titanic History and Remembrance Tour relives the most heart-wrenching cruise ship disaster in modern history. Tour guides take visitors to Titanic-related sites, graves of Titanic victims, morgues and churches and relive the night the “unsinkable” newly engineered, state-of-the-art ship crashed into an iceberg. Learn about the involvement Halifax had as the closest city to the area of the disaster. There are three 2-hour tours each day. The point of departure is the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic.

Another Maritime area that deserves to be explored is beautiful Cape Breton Island. Located 4 hours east of downtown Halifax, the highlight of this part of Nova Scotia is the Cabot Trail. Organized tours retrace the path trekked by Italian explorer John Cabot (Giovanni Caboto) who followed the example of Christopher Columbus and set out to explore the northern part of the New World.  John Cabot discovered the Canadian shores in 1497.

Great Earth Expeditions has 4-day nature and historical tours that provide the opportunity to watch whales, moose, and seals. Explore Cape Breton’s beautiful eco-systems such as waterfalls, marshes, woods and beaches. Go sea kayaking and take  Bird Island boat tours where you can watch the area’s residents, seals, puffins and bald eagles.

What to see in Halifax 

Canada’s equivalent of Ellis Island can be found at the Canadian Museum of ImmigrationPier 21 at 1055 Marginal Road. This is a fascinating journey into the early immigration influxes to Canada. The museum Family History Library has lists with thousands of names where visitors often search for their ancestors who made the journey across the Atlantic in search of a better life. You’d be surprised to find out who came through Pier 21!

Province-House (1726 Hollis St) is home to the Nova Scotia Legislature where the Lieutenant Governor and the House of Assembly govern the province. This is a very short tour that is compensated by the historical and cultural importance of the building. When legislature is not in session you can visit the chambers. To book tours call 902-424-5982.

Province House
Province House

Launched in 1921 the Bluenose II (1675 Lower Water St)  is Nova Scotia’s sailing ambassador. The Grand Banks fishing schooner is a racing vessel that has visited hundreds of ports around the world. Its home-base is the port of old town Lunenburg. The vessel is open to the public for daily visits, sails and learning activities for adults and children. Group visits can be arranged by contacting Bluenose II at 877-441-0347.

Situated on a hill in the heart of the city the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site (5425 Sackville St) is a piece of local history. The 19th century fortress was the city’s first line of defense against enemies. Staff in period costume guide tourists through the Citadel area headquarters, the prison and munitions storage areas. Everyone will agree that the highlight of the tour is the cannon firing at noon. Don’t miss it!

If you’re touring the city you’re bound to run into the Halifax Public Gardens (Spring Garden Rd and South Park St) sooner or later. A stroll through the historic Victorian park is free. Cross the majestic Victorian iron gates to view the flower varieties, ponds and historic buildings.

Fairview Lawn Cemetery comprises the burial grounds of passengers who lost their lives when the Titanic sank in the Halifax waters. The well kept cemetery is the final resting place for over 100 passengers out of some 2,000 that travelled on the Titanic.

H.M.C.S. Sackville (1675 Lower Water St) is next to the Maritime Museum. This is Canada’s naval memorial and it is generally appreciated by former navy personnel and civilians alike. The last of Canada’s 100 or so corvettes which were built during WWII, this is the oldest fighting war ship. The ship is open to the public during spring and summer. Admission for adults is CAD$5, seniors and youths pay CAD$2, families with children pay CAD$10. Contact numbers are 902-429-2132 and 902-427-2837.

Halifax Museums

Small but packed with things to see, the Nova Scotia Museum of Natural History (1747 Summer St) is located downtown Halifax. Among the museum’s permanent exhibitions are the geological, ethnological, birds and mammal, marine life and archaeological galleries. If you’re lucky you might even meet the museum’s mascot, Gus, a 90-year old Gopher tortoise.

Halifax Museum of Natural History
Halifax Museum of Natural History

The museum is open from May to October, 9am to 5pm during the week and from 9am to 8pm on Wednesdays. Adult admission is CAD$6.50, seniors pay CAD$5.50, youths CAD$4 and children 5 years and under have free admission. Families with 2 adults and children pay CAD$17.50, families with children and 1 adult pay CAD$12.50. Contact the museum at 902-424-7353.

Located close to Upper Water Street, the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia (1741 Hollis St) includes exhibits with classical, folk and contemporary art, photos. Exhibitions include the work of Andy Warhol, Canadian pioneer artists and Mary Pratt. The museum is closed on Mondays, open Tues – Sat from 10am to 5pm, Thursdays it is open until 9pm.

The Maritime-Museum-Of-The-Atlantic (1675 Lower Water St) is easy to find along the Halifax boardwalk and it proves to be an interesting attention grabber for those who don’t expect much. You can learn about the history of the area including the close relationship with the Titanic and the Halifax explosion (the biggest explosion prior to the Hiroshima atomic bomb). Museum hours are 9:30am to 5pm Mon – Sat. On Tuesdays the museum is open until 8pm. In Nov-May it is open from 1pm to 5pm. Admission price is CAD$9.25 for adults, $8.25 for senior and $5 for youths 6-17 years. Families with 2 adults and children under 17 pay $24.

Maritime Museum of the Atlantic
Maritime Museum of the Atlantic

Things to do in Halifax

Located 30 minutes south of downtown Halifax in Crystal Crescent Provincial Park, Crystal-Crescent-Beach (223 Sambro Creek Rd) is a scenic ocean hideaway with a multitude of beaches connected by trails. Just pick the one that suits your style and don’t forget to bring your camera to immortalize the incredible ocean views and lighthouse. The area includes a nudist beach.

1841 Argyle Street is where the heart of the city’s municipal building is located. A National Historic Site of Canada, Halifax-City-Hall was built in the late 1800s. The sandstone and granite building has a 7-storey tower with a clock facing north and south. Be sure to visit during Halifax City Hall’s “Doors Open” days to get the most out of your visit.

Dalhousie University Arts Centre is home to Halifax’s Symphony Nova Scotia. The history of symphony orchestras in Halifax dates back to the end of the 19th century. The Symphony is composed of 37 musicians and other artistic personnel that is regularly scheduled for season performances.

The Halifax Harbour Ferry has scenic boat rides to Dartmouth every half hour. Located on the eastern shore of Halifax Harbour this is a pleasant, laid back community and a visit to this area is well worth the price of the ferry ticket. Enjoy the views of the coast from the ocean and spend considerably less than any organized ferry tour of the area. Then stroll along the boardwalk and visit the gift shops, markets, coffee shops or stop for lunch or dinner at any of the restaurants in the area.

Travel north along the Nova Scotia Peninsula to reach the Joggins community in Cumberland County, about 2 hours from downtown Halifax. This is a geological treasure of fossils dating back millions of years. Walk along the Bay of Fundy beach and explore the fossils and cliffs. There are guided tours of this unique UNESCO World Heritage Site known as Joggins Fossil Cliffs Interpretation Centre.

Lunenburg is a coastal port town south of Halifax, about 90 km from downtown Halifax. The historic and cultural worth of this picturesque town have earned it the UNESCOO World Heritage Site designation in 1995 to preserve the architectural landscape. The town is dotted with quaint B&Bs and Inns, restaurants and shops. Spend the day or stay for a few days, you’ll have the chance to visit the Bluenose II which operates out of Lunenburg.

From Lunenburg you can take a boating tour to Peggy’s Cove. This fishing community is located in the Chebucto Peninsula on the Atlantic Coast 40km from Halifax. For years artists, photographers and tourists have been visiting the area for the beauty of the landscape. The town maintains strict laws about land development in order to preserve the authenticity of the architectural landscape. There are over 100 lighthouses in this area, however Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse, along the South Shore, is the best known and among the most photographed  lighthouse in the world.

A great entertainment venue for locals and visitors alike, Neptune Theatre (1593 Argyle St) was built in 1915  with the aim of bringing culture and entertainment to Halifax. The theatre has since grown and continues to be a major entertainment for locals and visitors. The theater season runs from September to May with regular performances that include Shakespeare tragedies and classics such as Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol.

Clam Harbour Beach is 70km northeast of downtown Halifax at 158 Beach Road. The sandy beach is set amidst the provincial park with grassy areas for picnics, facilities with change rooms and showers. The upper deck allows vistas of the Atlantic Ocean. Dogs, sun worshippers and seashell collectors are most welcome.

Cape Breton Island is worth the 4-hour drive. This Nova Scotia gem is a treasure full of  historical and geological facts. It is also a haven and important eco-system for hundreds of marine wildlife and local flora. Few people know that during the 15th century a Venetian explorer discovered the Canadian shores right in this area. Visitors can hike along Cabot’s trail and learn about the local history.

Located downtown Halifax, St. Paul’s Anglican Church has been around for over 260 years and it is one of the oldest buildings in the city. Spend some quiet time inside the church and admire the beautiful stained glass windows and the organ pipes.

Halifax events

From shopping to jazz, Halifax has year-long events of cultural, commercial, social, historical and environmental interest for locals and visitors. A number of seasonal and yearly events also take place elsewhere in Nova Scotia. Cape Breton has a number of cultural events and festivals that  highlight the local Gaelic heritage.
Jazz comes to Halifax yearly with the annual Jazz Festival featuring professional and amateur musicians who perform various jazz styles. The event takes place over 5 days each July. If you happen to be in Halifax during this time of year be sure to attend these concerts. Contact address for the event is 2178 Gottingen St., phone:  902-492-2225.

One of the largest outdoor theatres is Shakespeare by The sea (5799 Charles St). For a reasonable price you can watch theatre performances each summer from 1 July to the beginning of  September. During the summer months Point Pleasant park hosts the large outdoor stage for Shakespearean performances under the stars.

The centrally located Neptune Theatre (1593 Argyle St) has seasonal performances that include classic Shakespearean tragedies and Broadway plays. If you can get front centre balcony seats you can enjoy the best views of the stage. The downtown location is ideal for an après-theatre stroll. The theatre season runs from Sept through May.

Shopping Under the Stars Halifax is the yearly commercial event in the Spring Garden district of the city. The 20-day event takes place between November 14 and December 5 each season with retailer specials, promotions and freebies. The local Spring Garden shops sell everything from tea and furniture, to cell phones and pharmaceuticals. This is a good time to shop for souvenirs or gifts.

If you can’t get enough shopping at the Spring Garden event, take a ferry  and head over to Dartmouth Crossing. This shopping village is the local commercial development with shops and services featuring seasonal promotions. and specials. The annual Christmas Tree Lighting is one of the highlights of the season. The friendly shop owners leave umbrellas outside their door for visitors who get caught in the rain. You can reach Dartmouth crossing via Burnside, Hwy 118, Exit 12.

Other yearly and seasonal Halifax events include:

World Men’s Curling Championship: March – April

Halifax Mooseheads season games: September – March

Scotiabank Hockey Day: February

Evenings at Government House: September- December

Savour Food and Wine Festival: January – March

Craft Beer and Local Food Celebration: January

Events at Casino Nova Scotia: September – December

Dartmouth Crossing Holiday Events: November – December

Dartmouth Christmas Tree Lighting: November

Annual Gingerbread Family Sunday: December

New Year’s Even Party at the Grand parade: December 31

The Trews, New Year’s Eve: December 31

Craft Beer and Local Food Celebration

Ha!fax ComedyFest: April

Bluenose Marathon: May

Halifax Greek Fest: June

Eastern Shore Cold Water Seafood Festival: June

Memory Lane Heritage Village Annual Antique Car Show: June

GOLFest Nova Scotia: June – July

Canada Day in Halifax – Dartmouth: July

Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo: July

Maritie Fiddle Festival: July

Halifax Jazz Festival: July

Annual Lebanese Festival: July

Halifax Pride Festival: July

Halifax International Busker Festival: July

Halifax Seaport Beerfest: August

Atlantic Fringe Festival: August – September

Canadian Country Music Week: September

Atlantic Film Festival: September

Halifax Electronicl Live music Festival: September

Nocturne: October

Hal-Con: November

Events outside Halifax:

Lunenburg Farmers’ Market: February

KitchenFest! Féis a’ Chidsin!: July, Cape Breton, 902-295-3411

Ocean’s Day on the Wharf (Aros Na Mara): June, Cape Breton, 902-622-2439

Family Square Dance, January, Cape Breton, 905-945-2814

Wolfville Farmers’ Market, December, Wolfville, Bay of Fundy & Annapolis Valley

Contact 902-490-4000 or 311 from anywhere within Halifax Regional Municiaplity for a listing of events. Dates and times can vary from one season to the next.

Day Trip to Halifax   

Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk

Immigration Museum

Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk
Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk

You’ll find many sites along the wooden boardwalk, including the Immigration Museum at Pier 21.

Halifax Citadel national Historic Site (5425 Sackville)

Province House (1726 Hollis St)

City Hall (1841 Argyle St)

Public Gardens (Spring Garden Rd)

Fairview Cemetery

Dartmouth

Dartmouth
Dartmouth

Catch a ferry and take the scenic route to Dartmouth and enjoy beautiful views of the Harbour.

Point Pleasant Park

Peggy’s Cove

Lunenburg


Weekend Trip to Halifax

Day 1

Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk

Halifax Waterfront
Halifax Waterfront

You’ll find many sites along the wooden boardwalk, including the Immigration Museum at Pier 21.

Halifax Citadel national Historic Site (5425 Sackville)

Province House (1726 Hollis St)

Province House
Province House

City Hall (1841 Argyle St)

Fairview Cemetery

Travel north along Windsor Street for 10 minutes to reach the resting place of dozens of  victims of the Titanic.

Dartmouth

Catch a ferry and take the scenic route to Dartmouth and enjoy beautiful views of the Harbour.

Day 2

Lunenburg World Heritage Site

Peggy’s Cove

Point Pleasant Park

Public Gardens (Spring Garden Rd)

Week Trip to Halifax

Day 1

Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk

You’ll find many sites along the wooden boardwalk, including the Immigration Museum at Pier 21.

Halifax Citadel national Historic Site (5425 Sackville)

Province House (1726 Hollis St)

City Hall (1841 Argyle St)

Fairview Cemetery

Neptune Theatre (1593 Argyle St)

Day 2

Public Gardens (Spring Garden Rd)

Point Pleasant Park Beach

Point Pleasant Park Attraction
Point Pleasant Park Attraction

Maritime Museum of the Atlantic (1675 Lower Water St)

H.M.C.S. Sackville (1675 Lower Water St)

Purchase H.M.C.S. tickets at the Maritime Museum to save money. Ships have hundreds of stories to tell from world travels, and this one is no different.

Halifax Seaport Farmers’ Market (1209 Marginal Rd)

Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 (1055 Marginal Rd)

Day 3

Joggins Fossil Cliffs (100 Main St, Joggins)

The Rocks Provincial Park ( Discovery Rd, Hopewell Cape, New Brunswick)

About 135 km from Joggins Fossil Cliffs, take the NS 104W from Fundy Shore Ecotour, then NB 2 -W and NB 114-S to Rocks Rd in Hopewell.

Day 4

Hope For Wildlife Sanctuary

The Mission of the Hope for Wildlife Society runs an educational program through the rehabilitation and release into the wild of injured or orphaned wildlife. They do this by educating the public about the importance of animals and their ecosystems, and through research. Drive eastbound toward 5909 Hwy 207, Seaforth and visit these wildlife heroes.

You can also watch  the popular TV series “Hope for Wildlife.”  Visitors are welcome on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 10am to 4pm. Visit times and days are subject to change so be sure to contact them before you head out to the wildlife centre: 902-407-9453.

Crystal Crescent Beach (Provincial park, Sambro Creek)

Piazza at Bishop’s Landing (Lower Water St)

Cap off the day with dinner at one of the fine restaurants in this part of town.

Day 5

Bluenose II Tour (1675 Lower Water St)

Maritime Museum of the Atlantic (1675 Lower Water St)

Nova Scotia Museum of Natural History (1747 Summer St)

Fisherman’s Cove (Eastern Passage)

Located 20  minutes  south from downtown Halifax, this charming fisherman’s village begs to be explored for the natural scenery, the shops and the restaurants. Stop for lunch or dinner at one of the local restaurants featuring the catch of the day.

Day 6

Lunenburg and Peggy’s Cove World Heritage Sites

Day 7

Cape Breton Cabot Trail

From turbulent beginnings marked by colonial wars, Halifax has grown into a major economic centre in eastern Canada. Officially known as Halifax Regional Municipality, this Canadian Maritime municipality ranks high in quality of life. Halifax has some of the most picturesque coastal areas in the world designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This city is really worth a visit, So mark what is interesting you in this guide and hurry to book a flight for a memorable experience!

All the prices are subject to change