10 Super Fun Experiences in Halifax, Nova Scotia
15 Nov 2022
There’s always something to do in Halifax, Nova Scotia! Whether you’re a local looking for something new to do, or a visitor looking to explore, there’s plenty to keep you busy.
If you’re a fan of the outdoors, you can explore one of the many hiking trails or national parks. For those who prefer to stay indoors, there are plenty of museums and art galleries to visit. And if you’re looking for a night out on the town, Halifax has plenty of bars and clubs to keep you entertained.
Here are some of my top 10 fun attractions to experience in Halifax:
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Halifax Citadel National Historic Site
The Halifax Citadel National Historic Site is a must-see for any history buff. This star-shaped fortification was built in the mid-1700s to protect the city from naval attack, and it served as an active military base for nearly 200 years. Today, the Halifax Citadel is a national historic site that is operated by Parks Canada and is open to the public. Visitors can explore the fort’s grounds, learn about its history with the interactive exhibits, and take in panoramic views of the harbour.
Did you know that the soldiers stationed at Halifax Citadel’s South Magazine wore wooden shoes, buttons, and buckles? The reason… one spark was enough to make the barrels of gunpowder in the magazine go kaboom. The South Magazine, which housed the Halifax Citadel’s armaments, was the fort’s most dangerous spot.
Make sure you catch the firing of the reproduction 1809 12-pounder “Noon Gun”, a daily tradition that has continued since at least 1865.
Location
The Halifax Citadel National Historic Site is located at 5425 Sackville Street in Halifax.
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Halifax Boardwalk
One of the best things about Halifax is its stunning waterfront. The Halifax Boardwalk is a wonderful place to stroll, people-watch, or just take in the incredible views of the Halifax Harbour. It’s also a great place to grab a bite to eat or do some shopping. This 4-kilometre-long boardwalk runs between Casino Nova Scotia and the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21. There are plenty of restaurants and shops along the boardwalk, so you’re sure to find something to your taste.
Location
Halifax Boardwalk is located along the waterfront at Lower Water Street in Halifax (a 3-minute walk from the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic).
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Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21
The Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 is a truly unique experience for anyone visiting Halifax. Located in the historic harbour area, the museum tells the stories of the many immigrants who have come to Canada through Halifax over the years. Nearly one million immigrants arrived at Pier 21 from 1928 to 1971, and made Canada their new home.
If you’re looking for a unique and educational way to spend a few hours in Halifax, be sure to check out the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21.
Location
The Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 is located at 1055 Marginal Road in Halifax.
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Georges Island National Historic Site
Looking for a fun and educational experience in Halifax? Hop aboard the Kawartha Spirit and take a ride over to Georges Island National Historic Site.
You can take a guided tour of Fort Charlotte’s Lower Battery, Magazine Complex, Central Caponier, and the historic tunnels that connect them all. Then, take a self-guided tour of the fortress, walk the island freely and take in the sights of Halifax Harbour, read all about the history of the island on the informational displays, or have a chat with the Parks Canada staff to learn more about the island’s strategic position in the middle of Halifax Harbour.
The hilltop picnic area is a beautiful place to relax and take a red Parks Canada chair for a test drive while watching the boats go by.
Location
You can get tickets for Georges Island National Historic Site from Ambassatours Gray Line Waterfront Office in the Cable Wharf building on Lower Water Street in Downtown Halifax.
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The Dingle Tower at Sir Sandford Fleming Park
Sir Sandford Fleming Park is a 95-acre park with four natural habitats (woodlands, heath barren, salt water, and pond), that was donated to the City of Halifax in 1908 by the park’s namesake.
The Dingle Tower is one of the most distinctive landmarks in Halifax. Built between 1908 and 1912, the tower stands on a knoll overlooking the North West Arm, and has a commanding view of the city. The tower is four-sided, slightly tapered, and is constructed of brick and stone. The lower section is built from well-defined granite, while the middle and upper parts are constructed from ironstone sourced from a quarry at Purcell’s Cove. Wide granite string courses separate the base and top cap, while the top of the tower is capped with an elaborate stone Palladian opening. The two bronze lions that stand guard at the base of the Dingle tower were donated by the Royal Colonial Institute of London in 1913.
As you climb the stairs to the top of the Dingle tower, you can’t help but notice the plaques lining the interior walls. These plaques have been donated by other provinces and countries worldwide, showing the impact of British parliamentary institutions in Nova Scotia. The view from the top of the tower is breathtaking, and you can see for miles in all directions.
Whether you’re looking up at it from ground level or admiring it from afar, the Dingle Tower is sure to impress.
Location
Sir Sandford Fleming Park is located at 260 Dingle Road in Halifax.
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HMCS Sackville: Canada’s Naval Memorial
The HMCS Sackville is Canada’s Naval Memorial and a National Historic Site and is the last surviving Flower-Class corvette from the Second World War. This 205-foot warship served in the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN). The Sackville was commissioned on December 29, 1941 in Saint John, New Brunswick, and played a pivotal role in the Battle Of The Atlantic. HMCS Sackville is Canada’s oldest warship and now serves as a floating museum. It is open to the public for tours.
Location
The HMCS Sackville is located at 1655 Lower Water Street in Halifax.
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The Tall Ship Silva
A cruise aboard The Tall Ship Silva is the perfect way to see Halifax’s landmarks and enjoy a beautiful day on the water. From the moment you set sail, you will be treated to stunning views of the Halifax waterfront and some of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Georges Island, the Halifax Waterfront, the naval fleet, and more are all within view as you cruise along the harbour.
The Tall Ship Silva is a beautiful vessel with a spacious deck, and her crew are passionate about giving guests a truly memorable experience. They are happy to share their knowledge of the ship and its history. You can even help raise the sails of this massive 130′ schooner! Sit back, relax, and enjoy a wonderful day out on the water aboard The Tall Ship Silva.
Location
You can get tickets for The Tall Ship Silva from Ambassatours Gray Line Waterfront Office in the Cable Wharf building on Lower Water Street in Downtown Halifax.
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Maritime Museum of the Atlantic
The Maritime Museum of the Atlantic is one of Halifax’s most popular tourist destinations. Located on the waterfront, the museum showcases the city’s rich maritime history. It houses a large collection of artifacts, including ship models, paintings, and photographs. Visitors can also learn about the city’s role in the Titanic disaster, as well as the Halifax Explosion.
The Maritime Museum of the Atlantic is open year-round and offers a variety of educational programs for children and adults. Be sure to stop by and say hello to Merlin the Macaw. If Merlin is not in the middle of his daily nap, he may say hello back, and if you are lucky, he’ll play peek-a-boo with you!
Location
The Maritime Museum of the Atlantic is located at 1675 Lower Water Street in Halifax.
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Neptune Theatre
The Neptune Theatre is Halifax’s premier destination for live theatre. The historic building has been home to some of the city’s most popular productions, including The Phantom of the Opera, Les Miserables, Shakespeare In Love, Into the Woods, Mary Poppins, Peter Pan, It’s A Wonderful Life, The Wizard of Oz, Beauty and the Beast, The Rocky Horror Show, and The Sound Of Music.
If you’re looking for a place to enjoy some live theatre, the Neptune Theatre is the perfect choice. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, you’re sure to enjoy the great productions on offer.
Location
Neptune Theatre is located at 1593 Argyle Street in Halifax.
Alexander Keith’s Brewery Tour
If you are visiting Halifax, make sure to add the Alexander Keith’s Brewery tour to your itinerary. You’ll learn about the many small-batch beers brewed at this historic brewery while walking through many parts of the brewery, including the kettle room, where all of the magic happens. The tour guide will tell you all about the history brewery, and even show you some of the hops they use in the brewing process.
You’ll finish the tour in the Stag’s Head, where you’ll get to sample a couple of brews while enjoying some live Irish music performed by your tour guides.
So if you’re looking for a taste of traditional Nova Scotia, be sure to check out the Alexander Keith’s Brewery Tour. Sláinte mhaith!
Location
Alexander Keith’s Brewery is located at 1496 Lower Water Street #312 in Halifax.
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There’s Something For Everyone In Halifax!
No matter what your interests are, you’ll find something to do in Halifax. So go and explore everything this beautiful port city has to offer. And if you need recommendations on places to grab a bite in Halifax, we’ve got you covered.
Cheers,
Big Daddy
If you are a PR agency or brand and would like me to review a travel destination, vehicle, restaurant, product or service, please send me an email.
Craig Silva
Craig is a husband, father, team leader, travel and food writer, senior youth group coordinator, designer, brander, community builder, volunteer, and social media strategist. He likes to travel, go camping, go on road trips, watch movies, build stuff, operate the grill, and sing with his band. Craig is a member of the North American Travel Journalists Association and Travel Media Association of Canada. If you are a PR agency or brand and would like Craig to review a travel destination, vehicle, restaurant, product or service, please send him an email.
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