Halifax is a great city to visit; And in many ways it is the gateway to discovery Beautiful places in Nova Scotia. However, it also has a charm and history that are totally worth taking a few days to explore. This is especially true with the best things to do in Halifax that are within walking distance.
Not only that, but the city is quite a great base if you want to explore some of Nova Scotia’s eastern beaches on day trips, too. We loved showing up The famous Baiji Bay and drive down The beautiful city of Lunenburg.
Heck, we loved it all!
So, to help you make the most of your time, I wanted to share some of the best things to do in Halifax once you get to Nova Scotia. Have the best time exploring Atlantic Canada; It is a private area.
1.) Halifax Harbourfront
Strolling the harbourfront is one of the best things to do in Halifax once you first arrive in Nova Scotia. In my opinion, this allows you to ‘feel’ the city and understand Halifax a bit more.
Plus, it’s absolutely gorgeous so you really can’t miss it.
On a sunny day it is very nice to just relax and walk around the front. Although it doesn’t sound like the most active plan, a stroll on the boardwalk is great.
Once here, hop inside Maritime Museum of the Atlantic Ocean and learn more about the maritime history of the region. It’s totally fun, even if you’re not the biggest sailor.
After that, pass to get tipple at downstairs And grab some seafood in salty.
Imagine a little fun. But do you want a good tour of Halifax’s Nova Scotia gem? then Reserve these tickets to Halifax Segway Tour. It’s a fun way to see Halifax. Plus, you get a mini lesson on driving your motorcycle beforehand!
Further Read: Best Places In Atlantic Canada To Visit
2.) Peggy’s Cove
Yes I know! It’s not technically Halifax at all but you can’t visit Nova Scotia and not Peggy Cove. It is as attractive as it is beautiful.
Honestly, it is one of the best things to do in Halifax if you want a day trip from the city. Or, if you prefer, as part of a Wider Nova Scotia Road Trip.
After arriving via Prospect Road (333), Park here Tour the historic fishing village that looks like it’s out of a movie.
Wander to Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse, and step in float shop And get some of the best lobster rolls in Nova Scotia, from Tom Lobster Shack.
Best of all, if you don’t like driving, Book this Peggy’s Cove tour from Halifax. It takes all the stress of driving but all the fun of exploring Nova Scotia on a larger scale.
Just make sure Book this Peggy’s Cove tour advance. Tickets can sell out during peak months.
Read more: How to Explore Peggy’s Cove
3.) Halifax Public Gardens
On a sunny day in Nova Scotia, the Halifax State Gardens are a great place to visit. In fact, I’d go so far as to say it’s a great place to just relax if you want a slower pace.
Best of all, there Free gardening and historical tours operating in the Halifax Public Gardens. These one-hour tours are a great way to learn more about the local history.
Looking for a place to stay? check in Halliburton. We loved staying in this historic building and the rooms are very nice.
Read more: Our residency in Halliburton, Halifax
4.) Take a Harbor Cruise
Hands down, hopping on a harbor cruise is one of the best things to do in Halifax if you want to get your legs out at sea!
It’s an opportunity to explore wider Halifax while learning more about this historic area Atlantic Canada.
Take a walk around the harbor we loved on a sunny afternoon. Best of all, tours follow different scenic spots, share different historical stories or enjoy a Halifax dinner cruise.
The sunset view across the ocean is amazing.
5.) Explore McNabs and Lawlor Island Provincial Park
Fancy getting out of the city streets of Halifax? Then go to McNabs and Lawlor Island Provincial Park.
Located near Halifax Harbour, this is a lovely area for hiking (especially on the Timmonds Cove Trail), learning about history, and relaxing on the sandy beaches. You may also spot some local wildlife.
To get here, you’ll need to take a charter boat or water taxi. It is usually very easy but you need to plan your visit.
Oh, and don’t forget to bring a camera! You’ll also see the Maugers Beach Lighthouse and other buildings with a notorious heritage.
Further Read: Complete Itinerary To Explore Nova Scotia
6.) Go to Point Pleasant Park
If you like a good hike and a provincial park, head to Point Pleasant Park. It is one of the best things to do in Halifax if you want to escape the city streets.
With great views, it’s the best area to stroll and stop at some sights to see along the way. Be sure to discover Prince of Wales Tower and head to Black Rock Beach and Point Pleasant Battery.
Further Read: Complete Itinerary To Explore Nova Scotia
7.) Art Gallery of Nova Scotia
If you like to spend a day indoors and love art, then you must visit the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia. Inside is a huge mix of art and exhibits spanning centuries. They have tens of thousands of items and I don’t deserve to deal with them.
Not only that, they have the coolest seasonal and temporary exhibits that change every year. Therefore, there is always something new and exciting inside.
Next, visit the Province House and head on tour Through the Parliaments of Novia Scotia dating back to 1758.
Filled with a library of books, two grand staircases, and other historic accommodations, the county house is not to be missed.
Next, if you haven’t gone on the dinner cruise, head to The five are hunters A delicious bite. Seafood selection is fine. We ended up staying the night and we loved it.
Further Read: Complete Itinerary To Explore Nova Scotia
8.) Stop by Pier 21 National Historic Site
Love museums? Then heading to Pier 21 is one of the best things to do in Halifax. As you can see, Pier 21 National Historic Site is a great area to learn about immigration to Canada and the broader historical periods from 1928-1971.
Reserve these tickets to enter And learn more about the history of Canada. It’s worth taking a little trip right on the waterfront.
Further Read: Best Places To Visit In Nova Scotia
9.) Take a trip to the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site
Love a little bit of history? Then you have to go to the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site. Dating back to the 18th century, it’s a great place to learn more about the area’s English heritage.
Be sure to check out the Army Museum and hear the daily “Noon Gun” being fired each day at noon. Launched every day since 1857!
Afterwards, head to Argyle Street for some pubs and places to eat. Very good tacos!
Further Read: Nova Scotia Itinerary To Follow
10.) Old Town Clock
The Old Town Clock is just shy of Halifax Castle and quite easy to spot while exploring this area of the city. The Old Clock Tower is one of the most iconic landmarks in Halifax and you cannot miss it.
Just be sure to take layers if you’re walking around Halifax. The wind can pick up, and it’s always helpful to have extra layers while you’re out and about in the area.
Afterwards, be sure to visit St. Paul’s Church steeped in history. It has been around for centuries and is quite easy to visit when you are near the castle.
Plus, it’s one of the best things to do in Halifax if you want to see more of the city’s history.
Further Read: Best Places To Visit In Nova Scotia
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