The city of Halifax is gorgeous to visit. And in many ways, it’s your gateway to exploring the beautiful parts of Nova Scotia. That being said, it also has its charm and history worth spending a few days exploring.
But if you want to explore the eastern Nova Scotia coastline on a day trip, the city is also a great base. We loved driving to the beautiful town of Lunenburg, stopping at the iconic Peggy’s Cove.
Heck, we loved it all!
So, to help you make the most of your time, we wanted to show you some of the best things to do in Halifax once you arrive in Nova Scotia. Have the most amazing time exploring Atlantic Canada. It’s a very special 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, it allows you to get a ‘feel’ of the city and understand Halifax a little more.
Plus, it’s totally gorgeous, so you really can’t miss it.
On a sunny day just chilling out the front and strolling around is so beautiful. It doesn’t sound like the most “active” plan, but it’s nice to stroll the boardwalk.
If you come here, jump inside Maritime Museum Learn about the history of the Atlantic Ocean and learn about the naval history of the region. Even if you are not the biggest sailor, it is very interesting.
Afterwards, stop by for a drink. lower deck grab seafood at Salties.
Have a little fun daydreaming.But want a good tour of Nova Scotia’s jewels in Halifax? Book these tickets in order to Halifax Segway TourIt’s such a fun way to see Halifax. Plus, you can get a little lesson in driving a Segway beforehand!
Read more: Best places to visit in Atlantic Canada
2.) Peggy’s Cove
yes i know! It’s not technically Halifax, but you can’t visit Nova Scotia and you can’t visit Peggy’s Cove.
It’s honestly one of the best things to do in Halifax if you want a day trip from the city. Or as part of a wider Nova Scotia road trip if you prefer.
After arrival, via Observation Road (333), park here Stroll through a historic fishing village that looks like something you’d see in a movie.
Stroll down to Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse, buoy shop Hands down some of the best lobster rolls in Nova Scotia. Tom’s Lobster Shack.
Best of all, if you’re not interested in driving, Book this Peggy’s Cove tour Originally from Halifax. All the stress of driving takes, but so does all the fun of exploring the wider Nova Scotia.
surely Book this Peggy’s Cove tour in advance. Tickets may sell out during peak hours.
Read more: How to Explore Peggy’s Cove
3.) Halifax Public Gardens
For sunny days in Nova Scotia, visit the Halifax Public Gardens. In fact, I would say it’s a great spot to kick back and relax if you want a slower pace.
More than anything, Complimentary gardening and history tour It will be held at the Halifax Public Gardens. These one-hour tours of his are a great way to learn about local history.
Looking for a place to stay?check in HalliburtonWe love staying at this historic hotel, the rooms are so homely and lovely.
Read more: Staying at Halliburton in Halifax
4.) Take a Harbor Cruise
Simply put, taking a harbor cruise is one of the best ways to stretch your seafaring legs in Halifax.
Here’s your chance to explore the wider Halifax while learning a lot about this historic region of Atlantic Canada.
Tour the harbor we loved on a sunny afternoon. Best of all, the tour will take in different sights, share different historical stories, and enjoy refreshments on Halifax’s dinner he cruise.
The sunset over the sea is spectacular.
5.) Explore McNabs and Lawlor Island Provincial Park
Want to get out of the city of Halifax? Then head to McNabs and Lawlor Island Provincial Park.
Located near Halifax Harbour, it’s a great area for hiking (particularly the Timmons Cove Trail), learning about history and relaxing on the sand. You might even spot some local wildlife.
To get here, you must take a charter boat or water taxi. It’s usually pretty straightforward, but you should plan your visit.
Oh, and don’t forget your camera! You can also see the Maugers Beach Lighthouse and other notorious heritage buildings.
Read more: A complete itinerary to explore Nova Scotia
6.) Go to Point Pleasant Park
If you love walking and state parks, head to Point Pleasant Park. He is one of the best things to do in Halifax if you want to escape the city streets.
With stunning views, it’s a great area to stop at a few sights along the way. Spot the Prince of Wales Tower and head to Black Rock Beach and the Point Pleasant Battery.
Read more: A complete itinerary to explore Nova Scotia
7.) Museum of Nova Scotia
If you enjoy a day indoors and love art, visit the Museum of Nova Scotia. Inside, you’ll find a huge mix of centuries of art and exhibits. It has tens of thousands of items and is worth a visit.
Not only that, but there are some of the finest seasonal and temporary exhibits that change each year. So there’s always something new and exciting inside.
Then visit the Province House,read on tour Through the Novian Scotia State Council dating back to 1758.
Don’t miss the Province House, filled with a library of books, two grand staircases, and other historic landmarks.
After that, if you don’t go on a dinner cruise, five fishermen for a delicious bite. Their seafood selection is very good. We ended up staying all night and loved it.
Read more: A complete itinerary to explore Nova Scotia
8.) Stop at Pier 21 National Historic Site
Do you like museums? Afterwards, heading to Pier 21 is he one of the best things to do in Halifax. As you can see, Pier 21 National Historic Site is a great place to learn about immigration to Canada and his wider historical period from 1928 to 1971.
Book these tickets and go inside Learn more about Canadian history. Well worth the short trip on the waterfront.
Read more: Best places to visit in Nova Scotia
9.) Visit the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site
Do you like quite a bit of history? Afterwards, you’ll need to travel to the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site. Dating back to the 1700s, this place is a great place to learn about the region’s English heritage.
Be sure to check out the Army Museum and listen for the ‘Noon Gun’ fired daily at noon. Fired daily since 1857!
Then head to Argyle Street for bars and foodies. Antojo Tacos are very good!
Read more: Nova Scotia’s next itinerary
10.) Old Town Clock
The Old Town Clock is located very close to the Halifax Citadel and can be easily seen while exploring this area of the city. The Old Clock Tower is one of Halifax’s most famous landmarks and cannot be missed.
If you’re walking around Halifax, be sure to dress in layers. Winds can pick up, so it’s always worth having an extra layer when strolling through the area.
Then check out St. Paul’s Church, steeped in history. It’s been around for centuries and is easy to visit when you’re near the Citadel.
Plus, if you want to see more of the city’s history, it’s one of the best things to do in Halifax.
Read more: Best places to visit in Nova Scotia
12 Best Things to Do in Nova Scotia
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