Top Activities and Attractions in Halifax, Nova Scotia

Halifax just might be Canada’s coolest city. With a beautiful waterfront, an easy-to-navigate downtown, and rumored to have the most bars per capita of any city in Canada, it’s difficult to compete with Halifax. Halifax has a small-town vibe with all the amenities of a big city. If you need convincing to visit this waterfront city, check out these top things to do in Halifax to get you started.

1. Alexander Keith’s Brewery Tour

One of our favourite things to do in Halifax was to take the Alexander Keith’s Brewery tour. As Dave said during our tour, “Alexander Keith’s is a gathering of good people, great beer, and great music.” Enjoy a beer as you learn about the man behind the beer, Alexander Keith, and see how it is made as your guide shares stories and lots of laughs. It is one of the oldest breweries in North America and it is definitely not to be missed on your Halifax itinerary.

Nova Scotians know how to have a good time, and this tour offers a lot of tastings to keep you happy. The tour starts off right with a serving of beer and then they offer samples of red, pale, and Edinburgh ale throughout. At the end of the tour, everyone joins in a free Ceilidh.

2. Halifax Distilling Company

If beer isn’t your thing, well what’s wrong with you? But seriously, another great alcohol-themed attraction outside Alexander Keith’s Brewery is to enjoy some genuine Halifax rum. The Halifax Distilling Company takes you on a behind-the-scenes tour of this privately-owned distillery.

However, that’s not all. Once you have learned how the rum is distilled, you can enjoy cocktails in the chic cocktail lounge. It is certainly one of the most fun things to do in Halifax.

3. Stroll Along the Halifax Waterfront

Sure, many cities have a waterfront, but Halifax Harbour is something special. A walk along the Halifax Harbour is one of our favourite things to do in Halifax to get acquainted with the city. Many of the top attractions are located along this 4km (2.4 mile) boardwalk and when summer is in full swing, it is packed with people checking out the views and enjoying the many eateries.

We stayed at the Hotel Halifax during one of our visits, making for the perfect walking tour of Halifax. Located downtown, it was walking distance to the waterfront making for a great base. So, what can you see along the waterfront? Read on.

4. Take a Halifax Harbour Boat Tour

Travelers highly rate a boat tour as one of the best things to do in Halifax at sunset. Take a boat tour of the Halifax Harbour to take in the views of the beautiful waterfront. Many of the best things to do in Halifax are located within the harbour, and you can get a waterfront view from the Harbour Boat Tour.

On this tour, you’ll see George’s Island, a National Historic Site that was a strategic military point for defending Canada.

5. The Harbour Hopper Tour

The Harbour Hopper boat tour in Halifax offers a unique and engaging way to explore the city and its waterfront and is extremely popular for families. One of the standout features of the Harbour Hopper is that it’s an amphibious vehicle. This means the tour starts on land, navigating through downtown, and then transitions into the water, offering a boat tour of the harbor. The transition from land to water itself is an exciting experience, especially for first-timers.

Why should you take this tour? The Harbour Hopper provides a comprehensive overview of Halifax’s key landmarks, both on land and from the water. It offers a condensed way to see many of Halifax’s main attractions in a single tour, providing both a land and sea perspective in a unique and fun way.

6. Take the Ferry Across the Harbor

If a boat tour isn’t on your list, consider taking the ferry across the harbor to Dartmouth, Nova Scotia. The ferry is one of the best ways to travel between Halifax and Dartmouth. It provides fantastic views of both cities and the harbor. It’s also one of the oldest continuously operated saltwater ferry services in North America, allowing you to see another city in Canada while enjoying a boat tour.

The ferry takes only 10 – 12 minutes from downtown Halifax to Downtown Dartmouth. It’s a quick and affordable way to enjoy views of Halifax. With 23 ponds, Dartmouth is known as The City of Lakes. Located on the eastern shore of Halifax Harbour, it is a part of the Halifax Regional Municipality (HRM) and is directly across the harbour from Halifax.

Dating back to its founding by the British in 1750, it played a significant role in the maritime and military history of the region.

7. Historic Properties

Historic Properties date back to the 1800s when Privateers ruled the seas, and schooners stopped in at the port of Halifax. This collection of warehouses has been fully restored since 1963 and was declared an area of national historic importance in Canada.

Today, the properties blend a mix of history and contemporary charm as the facades look and feel like life in the 1800s, but inside you’ll find boutique shops and popular restaurants. This is an excellent stop on any Halifax itinerary.

Be sure to try the lobster at Salty’s followed by a pint of beer at the Lower Deck. Checking out Historic Properties is one of the best things to do in Halifax. You’ll be able to eat, drink, sightsee, and relax. Seriously, one of the best things to do in Halifax is to savor a lobster on the waterfront. You will feel like a true Maritimer.

8. Maritime Museum of the Atlantic

The Maritime Museum of the Atlantic is a great stop on your day tour of Halifax. We really enjoyed learning about the maritime history of Canada at this museum that showcases the marine heritage of Halifax. If you love maritime history, put this at the top of your things to do in Halifax list.

This museum documents the history of life on the seas from the 1800s to today. There are several artifacts on display and sections dedicated to the Titanic victims and the victims of the Halifax Explosion of 1917.

9. CSS Acadia

When looking for things to do in Halifax, there is no shortage of interesting museums and historic sites. The CSS Acadia is a part of the museum, and visitors can step inside this floating museum. It is the only surviving ship to have served the Royal Canadian Navy during both world wars.

10. Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21

At the opposite end of Halifax Harbour from Historic Properties, you’ll find one of the best things to do in Halifax, the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21. This museum is a must-see when visiting Atlantic Canada and is filled with interactive exhibits and information about the immigrants who settled in Canada.

Between 1928 and 1971, Pier 21 was the first point of entry for many immigrants to Canada. It has now been turned into a museum where you can explore family history and hear firsthand accounts from immigrants about their journeys.

The Canadian Museum of Immigration allows you to immerse yourself in what it was like crossing the Atlantic in tight quarters, where you can try on period garb or see how immigrants packed their entire lives into one small trunk.

There is an interesting Titanic display with artifacts from the ship. To learn more about the Titanic disaster, you can visit the Fairview Lawn Cemetery. Halifax was the closest harbor when the Titanic sank, and many of its victims were brought to Halifax. The Fairview Lawn Cemetery is the final resting place for 121 Titanic victims.

11. Halifax Seaport Farmers’ Market

After you’ve finished on the Halifax waterfront, pop into the Halifax Seaport Farmers Market to grab everything you need for a picnic. Even if you are not shopping, it is a must-visit. The Halifax Seaport Farmers Market is one of the oldest continuously operating farmers’ markets in North America.

Over the years, it has changed locations regularly, and in 2021, the Halifax Farmers Market moved down the street to offer an outdoor shopping experience during the summer months with indoor vendors at Pavilion 22.

The market sells everything from local crafts and jewelry to fresh fish and local produce. Whether you are shopping or simply browsing, this is not to be missed.

12. Art Gallery of Nova Scotia

Art lovers will enjoy the Art Gallery of Halifax, Nova Scotia, the largest art museum on the East Coast of Canada. It features permanent collections of Nova Scotia artists, most notably, the folk art collection of Maud Lewis House. Maud Lewis was a painter in Nova Scotia who spent 40 years painting her small home with colorful scenes of the region. Several years after her death, the Art Gallery moved her home as part of its permanent collection, creating an immersive experience.

The Art Gallery of Nova Scotia (AGNS) is located in the heart of downtown Halifax and stands as the primary provincial art gallery for Nova Scotia. As the most prominent art museum in Atlantic Canada, it serves as a pivotal cultural institution in the region.

Situated on Hollis Street in Halifax, with an additional branch in Yarmouth, the gallery offers a vast collection emphasizing visual arts from Nova Scotia and the Atlantic region, spanning a wide array of mediums from paintings to sculptures, photographs, and drawings.

13. Halifax Public Gardens

If you have a picnic in hand, make your way to the Halifax Public Gardens. The Victorian Gardens date back to 1867 and span 16 acres with flower beds, fountains, and manicured gardens to enjoy.

The public gardens provide a lovely space to find tranquility as you stroll through its garden paths, admiring its colorful flower beds and historic statues. There is also a bandstand and a Victorian-era greenhouse.

Events happen within the public gardens periodically. If you are looking to escape the hustle and bustle, a walk through the Halifax Public Gardens is one of the best things to do in the city.

14. Point Pleasant Park

Another green space to visit in Halifax is Point Pleasant Park. It covers approximately 190 acres (75 hectares) at the southern tip of the Halifax peninsula and offers a mix of forested trails, historical sites, coastal ecosystems, and recreational facilities.

The park has several historical sites related to the defense of Halifax, including the remains of several fortifications. Notably, the Prince of Wales Tower is one of the oldest Martello towers in North America. Every summer, the park hosts “Shakespeare by the Sea,” a theater festival that presents classic plays in an outdoor setting.

15. Halifax Central Library

One of the coolest pieces of architecture in Halifax is the Halifax Central Library. It was created as a community gathering place and even visitors to the city will want to go inside. If you appreciate architectural design when traveling, you’ll love the library; it was awarded the Governor General’s Medal for its outstanding new civic building design. Make sure to visit the rooftop terrace for great panoramic views of downtown Halifax and the harbor. If you’re looking for things to do in Halifax that locals love, this is it.

16. Hang out at Spring Garden Road

The Halifax Public Gardens and Halifax Central Library are both located in the Spring Garden Road area, which is one of the trendiest places in the city, filled with bars, restaurants, and the main shopping hub. After you’ve shopped, head to one of the hip bars for a cocktail. This is a great way to experience the local vibe of Halifax.

17. Halifax Citadel National Historic Site

One of the not-to-miss things to do in Halifax is to make your way up to the Halifax Citadel. This fortification has stood guard over the city since its origin in 1856, spanning through World War II and into the present day.

Watch the changing of the guard and see a reenactment of the 78th Highlanders march through the grounds. You can even be a soldier for a day and dress up in the Highlanders uniform complete with kilt! Don’t miss the Royal Artillery firing the noon gun, one of the oldest traditions in the world.

18. Citadel Hill

Going up Citadel Hill is a wonderful place to catch the sunset over Halifax. The Old Town Clock is a classified federal heritage building that stands proud over the city.

Viewing the Historic Town Clock offers a serene perspective of downtown Halifax and the harborfront. Alternatively, you can join a ghost tour from the Old Clock Tower; it’s known as the oldest ghost tour in North America.

19. Ghosts of St. Paul’s Church

While strolling downtown Halifax, keep an eye out for the ghost of St. Paul’s Church. It is the oldest building in Halifax to have survived the Halifax explosion, which left the mark of a face in its glass. Following the explosion, a silhouette of a head was forever etched into its glass. Is it the ghost of a reverend, the pipe organist, or a sailor who died in the blast? We’ll never know, but this head has fascinated visitors for more than a decade.

20. Go Skating at Halifax Emera Oval

Built for the 2011 Canada Games, the Emera Oval is a skating rink that is free during the winter and offers free rollerblade, bike, and scooter rentals in the summer. So strap on your ice skates in the winter and roller blades in the summer and enjoy the outdoors.

One unique feature of the Emera Oval is its year-round accessibility. During winter months, it operates as a long-track speed skating rink, which is the largest artificial ice surface east of Quebec in Canada. In the warmer months, it transitions into a roller-skating and biking venue.

The Emera Oval is located on the Halifax North Common at the corner of North Park Street and Cogswell Street.

21. Nightlife on Argyle Street

If you’re looking for a lively night out in Halifax, look no further than Argyle Street. It has three attributes that we love: pubs, patios, and food. Located in the heart of downtown, Argyle Street is bustling day or night, lined with restaurants and live music venues. For activities in Halifax at night, Argyle Street is the place to be.

We recommend dinner at the Five Fishermen Restaurant for authentic Nova Scotia seafood. It has been rated the #1 restaurant in Halifax for service, ambiance, value, and food!

22. Halifax Donair

After a night of drinking and dancing, a late-night Donair is the perfect remedy for a hangover. The Donair is the “unofficial” official food of Halifax. A meat-filled wrap with tomatoes and onions, it resembles a doner kebab or gyro, but it is distinctly Nova Scotian. One of the best places to enjoy a Donair is The King of Donair, the original establishment where the founder, Peter Gamoulako, wanted to introduce the gyro to Canadians, adding his own twist.

23. Try Some Fish and Chips

Many places in Halifax claim to have the best fish and chips in Canada—and for good reason. Atlantic Canada embraces its fishing culture, guaranteeing you will enjoy fresh local haddock. Some of the best spots for fish and chips in Halifax include John’s Lunch, which has been serving this dish since 1969, The Five Fishermen for a more upscale dining experience, and Fredie’s Fantastic Fish House, a no-frills spot that locals adore. It is known for its generous portions and crispy battered haddock.

When choosing a place for fish and chips in Halifax, it largely depends on your atmosphere preference, whether casual takeaway, sit-down restaurant, or a scenic spot on the waterfront. Keep in mind that the freshest seafood is a hallmark of many Nova Scotian eateries, so you’re likely in for a treat wherever you decide to go.

Top Things to Do in Halifax with Kids

Before we delve into where to stay and day trips from Halifax, let’s explore some attractions dedicated to the entire family.

Discovery Centre: A hands-on science center that offers interactive exhibits, live science shows, and a featured exhibit gallery that changes regularly. Kids of all ages will be entertained while learning.

Hatfield Farm: A short drive from Halifax, this farm offers horseback riding, wagon rides, a petting zoo, and more, making it a perfect family outing.

Bayers Lake Mystery Walls: For families who enjoy a bit of outdoor exploration, these mysterious ruins offer a mini-adventure. The origin of these walls remains a mystery, sparking imagination and curiosity.

Shubenacadie Wildlife Park: Located in nearby Dartmouth, this wildlife park showcases native animals and is a hit with kids. They can see moose, bears, and deer in relatively natural habitats.

Visit the Beaches: Halifax and the surrounding areas are home to numerous beautiful beaches. Whether you’re looking for a place to swim, build sandcastles, or explore tidal pools, there’s a beach for you.

Take a Harbour Cruise: Several companies offer harbor cruises, some tailored for kids with themes like pirate adventures.

Where to Stay in Halifax

The Haliburton is a lovely boutique hotel close to downtown and the waterfront that travelers rave about.

Hotel Halifax was our favorite hotel in Halifax as it is conveniently located near the harbourfront and Citadel and within walking distance to many top Halifax attractions. It features a pool, bar, restaurant, and fitness centre.

Lord Nelson is a historic hotel in Halifax dating back to 1928. We found it comfortable, though a bit dated, and the service could have been better. However, if you appreciate grand old hotels like the Chateau Frontenac or Chateau Laurier, this might be the perfect fit.

Quick Day Trips from Halifax, Nova Scotia

If you are visiting Nova Scotia for a short time, you may only have the opportunity for a few day trips from Halifax. Here are a few easy day trips from Halifax, Canada.

Peggy’s Cove

Peggy’s Cove is a must-visit when exploring Halifax. It is Nova Scotia’s most popular attraction, and with good reason. Located just 30 minutes from downtown Halifax, it makes for an easy day trip.

Tour buses leave from Halifax to Peggy’s Cove, but we suggest renting a car for a day to explore everything the area has to offer. Departing before sunrise is ideal to watch it from Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse, free from crowds, providing a beautiful view.

Bay of Fundy

Nova Scotia is renowned for being home to the world’s highest tides, and no trip would be complete without visiting the Bay of Fundy. Luckily, Burntcoat Head Park is only an hour away from Halifax and is one of the province’s most popular attractions. Here, you can walk on the ocean floor for three hours on either side of the tides, moving 100 billion tons of water every six hours—more than every river in the world combined!

Lunenburg

Lunenburg is a bit of a drive from Halifax at 2.5 hours, but if you have a short time in the province, it is not to be missed. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this is Canada’s prettiest town, featuring colorful buildings lining the waterfront. The historic Bluenose tall ship is based in Lunenburg, where you can also visit the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic. There are microbreweries, fine dining, and plenty of shopping.

Mahone Bay

While you make your way to Lunenburg, consider stopping at Mahone Bay. Just a 10-minute drive from Lunenburg, Mahone Bay is a fantastic stop along your Lunenburg itinerary. Founded in 1745, Mahone Bay was named one of Canada’s best small towns. It’s famous for The Three Churches that line the waterfront, making it one of the most photographed places in Nova Scotia.

How to Get to Halifax

Halifax Stanfield International Airport (YHZ) is the major international airport serving Halifax and the surrounding Maritime provinces. It’s located in Enfield, about 35 km north of Halifax. The airport offers several direct flights from major cities in Canada, the United States, and Europe, as well as seasonal flights from other destinations. Once you arrive, you can take a car rental, taxi, or shuttle to access downtown Halifax.

VIA Rail Canada: The Ocean is VIA Rail’s passenger train service running between Montreal and Halifax. It’s a scenic route, operating three days a week, offering a unique view of eastern seaboard landscapes, including the Matapedia Valley and the Baie des Chaleurs.

Canada: From central or western Canada, follow the Trans-Canada Highway eastbound, which will lead you through Quebec and New Brunswick and into Nova Scotia.

From the US: If you’re driving from the northeastern United States, you’ll likely cross into Canada at the Calais, Maine / St. Stephen, New Brunswick border. From there, follow the Trans-Canada Highway (NB Route 1, becoming NS Route 104) east through New Brunswick into Nova Scotia, eventually reaching Truro where you’ll take NS Route 102 directly to Halifax.

When planning your trip to Halifax, consider the season, as winter can sometimes present travel challenges, especially if driving. Always check schedules and availability ahead of time, especially given the potential changes in services or routes.

These are our favorite things to do in Halifax, Nova Scotia. There is so much more to see and do, and we can’t wait to return to Halifax to experience the east coast hospitality, beautiful scenery, and gorgeous coast. Have you been to Halifax?

Our trips to Halifax were courtesy of Tourism Nova Scotia. Like everything shared here, all opinions are our own. To check out more things to do in Halifax and Nova Scotia, visit their website.