Halifax Attractions: A Guide for Visitors

Halifax Citadel National Historic Site

One of the most iconic landmarks in Halifax is the Halifax Citadel, a star-shaped fort that sits atop a hill overlooking the downtown and the harbor. The Citadel was built by the British in the 18th and 19th centuries to defend the city from potential attacks by the French, the Americans, and other enemies. Today, the Citadel is a national historic site that preserves the history and heritage of Halifax and its role in the British Empire. Visitors can explore the fort’s ramparts, tunnels, barracks, museum, and exhibits, and witness the daily ceremonies of the 78th Highlanders, a reenactment unit that dresses in authentic uniforms and performs drills and music. One of the highlights of the Citadel is the firing of the noon gun, a tradition that dates back to 1856 and signals the time for the city. The Citadel also offers spectacular views of the city and the harbor, and is a great place to learn about the military and cultural history of Halifax.

Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk

Another must-see attraction in Halifax is the waterfront boardwalk, a 4-kilometer (2.5-mile) stretch of wooden walkway that runs along the edge of the harbor. The boardwalk is a lively and scenic spot that showcases the maritime charm and spirit of Halifax. Along the boardwalk, you can find a variety of attractions, such as the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21, the Halifax Seaport Farmers’ Market, the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia, and the CSS Acadia, a historic ship that served in both world wars. You can also enjoy the views of the harbor and the islands, watch the boats and ships come and go, and spot some marine wildlife, such as seals, dolphins, and whales. The boardwalk is also a great place to shop, dine, and relax, as there are many shops, restaurants, cafes, and pubs that cater to different tastes and budgets. The boardwalk is especially lively in the summer, when there are festivals, concerts, and street performers that add to the fun and festive atmosphere.

Halifax Public Gardens

If you are looking for a peaceful and beautiful oasis in the heart of the city, you should visit the Halifax Public Gardens, a 6.5-hectare (16-acre) park that is one of the finest examples of Victorian gardens in North America. The gardens were established in 1867 and feature a variety of plants, flowers, trees, and statues that create a colorful and serene setting. The gardens are also home to a pond, a fountain, a bandstand, and a gazebo, where you can enjoy the sounds of nature and music. The gardens are open year-round, but the best time to visit is in the spring and summer, when the flowers are in full bloom and the gardens host free concerts and events. The gardens are a perfect place to relax, picnic, stroll, and admire the beauty of nature in the city.

Peggy’s Cove

If you want to experience the scenic and rugged beauty of the Nova Scotia coast, you should take a day trip to Peggy’s Cove, a small fishing village that is about 40 kilometers (25 miles) from Halifax. Peggy’s Cove is one of the most popular and photographed places in Canada, and for good reason. The village is nestled in a rocky cove that overlooks the Atlantic Ocean, and is surrounded by stunning landscapes of cliffs, hills, and lighthouses. The most famous landmark in Peggy’s Cove is the Peggy’s Point Lighthouse, a red-and-white beacon that stands on a granite outcrop and guides the ships in the bay. The lighthouse is also a post office, where you can send a postcard with a special stamp. Peggy’s Cove is a charming and picturesque place that captures the essence of Nova Scotia’s maritime culture and heritage. You can explore the village, visit the shops and galleries, taste the fresh seafood, and enjoy the views of the ocean and the waves.

Alexander Keith’s Brewery

If you are a beer lover, you should not miss the chance to visit the Alexander Keith’s Brewery, one of the oldest and most famous breweries in Canada. The brewery was founded in 1820 by Alexander Keith, a Scottish immigrant who became a prominent politician and businessman in Halifax. The brewery is still operating today, and produces some of the best and most popular beers in the country, such as the Keith’s India Pale Ale, the Keith’s Red Amber Ale, and the Keith’s Light Ale. The brewery offers guided tours that take you through the history and process of brewing, and let you sample some of the beers in the historic Stag’s Head Tavern. The tours are also entertaining and interactive, as the guides dress in period costumes and perform songs and stories that reflect the brewery’s heritage and legacy. The brewery is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Halifax and its beer industry, and to enjoy some of the finest brews in the city.

Halifax Central Library

One of the most modern and impressive buildings in Halifax is the Halifax Central Library, a five-story structure that opened in 2014 and has become a landmark and a hub for the community. The library is designed to resemble a stack of books, and features a glass facade that allows natural light and views of the city. The library is more than just a place to borrow books, as it offers a range of services and facilities, such as a cafe, a rooftop terrace, a theater, a gaming room, a recording studio, a maker space, and a local history room. The library also hosts various events and programs, such as lectures, workshops, concerts, and exhibitions, that cater to different interests and ages. The library is a state-of-the-art and innovative place that reflects the diversity and creativity of Halifax and its people.

Halifax Explosion Memorial

One of the most tragic and significant events in the history of Halifax was the Halifax Explosion, a massive blast that occurred on December 6, 1917, when two ships collided in the harbor and caused the largest man-made explosion before the atomic bomb. The explosion killed about 2,000 people, injured 9,000 more, and destroyed much of the city. The explosion also triggered a tsunami, a firestorm, and a blizzard, that added to the devastation and suffering. The Halifax Explosion Memorial is a monument that commemorates the victims and the survivors of the explosion, and honors their courage and resilience. The memorial consists of a granite cross and a bronze plaque that bear the names of the dead and the date of the explosion. The memorial is located in Fort Needham Park, a hilltop park that overlooks the harbor and the site of the explosion. The memorial is a solemn and moving place that reminds visitors of the tragedy and the recovery of Halifax and its people.

Point Pleasant Park

If you are looking for a place to enjoy some outdoor activities and nature in Halifax, you should head to Point Pleasant Park, a 75-hectare (185-acre) park that is located at the southern tip of the Halifax Peninsula. The park is a former military fortification that was established by the British in the 18th century, and still contains some of the fort’s ruins, cannons, and monuments. The park is also a natural reserve that features a variety of habitats, such as forests, meadows, wetlands, and rocky shores. The park is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike, who come to the park to hike, bike, jog, picnic, and relax. The park has over 39 kilometers (24 miles) of trails that offer different levels of difficulty and scenery, and lead to some of the park’s attractions, such as the Prince of Wales Tower, the Martello Tower, the Shakespeare by the Sea theater, and the Halifax Harbour Look Off. The park is a beautiful and historic place that offers a breath of fresh air and a glimpse of nature in the city.

Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21

One of the most important and interesting museums in Halifax is the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21, a national museum that tells the story of immigration in Canada and its impact on the country’s identity and culture. The museum is located at Pier 21, a former ocean liner terminal that was the gateway for over one million immigrants who arrived in Canada between 1928 and 1971. The museum features exhibits, artifacts, documents, and multimedia that showcase the experiences and contributions of the immigrants who came to Canada from different parts of the world and for different reasons. The museum also offers interactive and educational programs, such as guided tours, workshops, films, and lectures, that engage and inform visitors of all ages and backgrounds. The museum is a fascinating and inspiring place that celebrates the diversity and richness of Canada and its people.

Art Gallery of Nova Scotia

If you are an art lover, you should not miss the opportunity to visit the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia, the largest and most comprehensive art museum in Atlantic Canada. The gallery is housed in two historic buildings that are connected by a glass bridge, and display a collection of over 17,000 works of art that span various periods, styles, and media. The gallery focuses on the art of Nova Scotia and Atlantic Canada, and features works by some of the region’s most renowned artists, such as Maud Lewis, Alex Colville, Mary Pratt, and Annie Leibovitz. The gallery also showcases the art of Indigenous, African Canadian, and Acadian communities, as well as contemporary and international artists. The gallery offers a range of programs and events, such as guided tours, workshops, lectures, and concerts, that enrich and educate visitors about the art and culture of Nova Scotia and beyond. The gallery is a wonderful and stimulating place that displays the creativity and diversity of the art world.

Halifax Harbour Ferry

One of the most fun and convenient ways to get around Halifax is by taking the Halifax Harbour Ferry, a public transit service that operates between the downtown Halifax and Dartmouth terminals. The ferry is the oldest saltwater ferry service in North America, and has been running since 1752. The ferry is not only a practical mode of transportation, but also a scenic and enjoyable ride that offers panoramic views of the harbor and the city skyline. The ferry takes about 12 minutes to cross the harbor, and costs the same as a bus fare. The ferry runs every 15 minutes during peak hours, and every 30 minutes during off-peak hours. The ferry is a great way to experience the maritime culture and charm of Halifax, and to explore the attractions and amenities on both sides of the harbor.

Halifax Shopping Centre

If you are in the mood for some retail therapy, you should head to the Halifax Shopping Centre, the largest and most popular shopping mall in Atlantic Canada. The mall is located in the west end of Halifax, and has over 160 stores and services that cater to different needs and preferences. The mall features a mix of local and international brands, such as Apple, H&M, Sephora, Lululemon, and Roots. The mall also has a food court, a movie theater, a fitness center, and a children’s play area. The mall is open seven days a week, and offers free parking and free Wi-Fi. The mall is a one-stop destination for all your shopping and entertainment needs, and a great place to spend a day or a rainy afternoon.

Conclusion

Halifax is a city that has something for everyone, whether you are looking for history, nature, art, or entertainment. Halifax is a city that combines the old and the new, the urban and the rural, the traditional and the modern. Halifax is a city that celebrates its maritime heritage and its multicultural diversity. Halifax is a city that welcomes and charms its visitors with its friendly and hospitable people. Halifax is a city that you should visit and discover for yourself.