Top Things to Do in Halifax: Complete Travel Guide to Nova Scotia’s Capital

Welcome to Halifax, the vibrant capital of Nova Scotia, where Atlantic charm, maritime history, and modern energy meet along a scenic coastline. With its historic waterfront, captivating cultural scene, and access to some of Canada's most beautiful seascapes, Halifax is more than just a city—it's an experience.
 

Whether you’re drawn to historic forts, local seafood, lighthouses, or windswept coastlines, Halifax invites you to slow down and soak up the coastal soul of Canada.

📍 Where is Halifax?

Halifax is located on the eastern shore of Canada, facing the Atlantic Ocean, and is the largest city in Atlantic Canada. It sits on a massive natural harbor, making it a key port city both historically and today.

Distance to nearby destinations:

3.5 hours from Peggy’s Cove to Cape Breton Highlands

4 hours flight from Toronto

Direct ferry to Newfoundland (via North Sydney)

🏞️ Top Things to Do in Halifax

1. Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk

One of the longest urban boardwalks in the world:

Stretching over 4 km along the harbor

Home to artisan shops, food vendors, historic vessels, and public art

Ideal for walking, relaxing, or watching the ships sail by

Tip: Stop for local favorites like BeaverTails and lobster rolls.

2. Citadel Hill National Historic Site

Step into Halifax’s military past at this star-shaped fortress:

Built in 1749 to defend the harbor

Live reenactments and costumed interpreters

Panoramic views of the downtown and harbor

The noon gun is still fired daily!

3. Maritime Museum of the Atlantic

A must-visit for maritime lovers:

Exhibits on shipwrecks, the Titanic, and Nova Scotia’s naval legacy

Authentic artifacts, including deck chairs from the Titanic

Historic vessels docked outside, like the CSS Acadia

4. Pier 21 – Canadian Museum of Immigration

Halifax was once the gateway to Canada for over 1 million immigrants:

Explore stories of migration, settlement, and hope

Hands-on family history center

Deeply moving and educational

5. Point Pleasant Park

A sprawling urban park by the sea:

Forested trails and ocean views

Ruins of historic British fortifications

Ideal for jogging, biking, or a peaceful afternoon

🛥️ Iconic Day Trips from Halifax

🚨 Peggy’s Cove

Just 45 minutes away

Home to Canada’s most photographed lighthouse

Crashing waves, granite rocks, and tiny fishing village vibes

Caution: Don’t go too close to the slippery black rocks!

🌲 Lunenburg (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

1.5 hours from Halifax

Colorful waterfront buildings, old schooners, and seafood shacks

Visit the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic

🛶 Mahone Bay

Picturesque town dotted with three famous churches

Cozy cafés, boutique shops, and sea kayaking

🏖️ Lawrencetown Beach

30 minutes from downtown

Popular with surfers and beachcombers

Rugged coastline ideal for scenic walks

🍽️ What to Eat in Halifax

Halifax is a hidden gem for foodies, especially seafood lovers. Here’s what to try:

🦞 Must-Try Dishes

Lobster roll – served cold with mayo or hot with butter

Digby scallops – tender, sweet, and seared to perfection

Donair – Halifax's official food! Spiced beef, sweet sauce, and pita

Hodge Podge – A summer vegetable stew unique to the region

🍷 Recommended Restaurants

The Bicycle Thief – Fine Italian with a maritime twist

Edna – Trendy brunch & local seafood

Five Fishermen – Historic fine dining in a haunted building

Waterfront Warehouse – Oysters and lobster by the harbor

🍻 Breweries and Nightlife in Halifax

Halifax is one of Canada’s top cities for craft beer and vibrant nightlife. Don't miss:

🍺 Best Breweries

Alexander Keith’s Brewery – Historic tours and classic ale

Garrison Brewing Co. – Craft staples and seasonal IPAs

2 Crows Brewing Co. – Experimental small-batch beers

🎶 Live Music & Pubs

The Lower Deck – Classic East Coast pub music

Durty Nelly’s – Authentic Irish pub in the city center

Bearly’s House of Blues – Lively blues and local bands

🎭 Arts, Culture, and Festivals

Halifax has a creative, artistic soul—seen in its murals, museums, and performance venues.

🖼️ Art Galleries

Art Gallery of Nova Scotia – Includes works by Maud Lewis and Indigenous artists

Mary E. Black Gallery – Contemporary craft exhibits

🎉 Popular Festivals

Halifax Jazz Festival (July)

Atlantic Film Festival (September)

Halifax Pride Festival (July)

Nocturne Art at Night (October) – City-wide art installations at night

🛍️ Where to Shop in Halifax

🛒 Local Markets

Halifax Seaport Farmers’ Market – The oldest continuously operating farmers’ market in North America

Historic Properties – 19th-century buildings turned into shops

🛍️ Boutique Streets

Spring Garden Road – Halifax's premier shopping street

Quinpool Road & Gottingen Street – Indie shops and local flavor

🌳 Green Spaces and Outdoor Fun

Halifax isn’t just about the harbor. It’s full of natural spaces and fresh air activities.

🌲 Public Gardens

Victorian-style gardens right in the heart of the city

Serene duck ponds, colorful flower beds, and wrought iron gates

🚴 Bike the Harborwalk

Rent a bike and cruise along the Halifax Harborwalk Trail

Connects downtown to parks and beaches

🛏️ Where to Stay in Halifax

🏨 Luxury

The Prince George Hotel – Upscale with central location

Halifax Marriott Harbourfront – Waterfront views

🛏️ Mid-Range & Boutique

The Halliburton – Charming heritage property

Muir, Autograph Collection – Contemporary luxury on the waterfront

💰 Budget

HI Halifax Hostel – Social and central

Commons Inn – Budget-friendly near Citadel Hill

✈️ Getting to and Around Halifax

✈️ Halifax Stanfield International Airport (YHZ)

Serves major Canadian and some U.S. and European destinations

🚍 Getting Around

Downtown is walkable

Buses and ferries run by Halifax Transit

Ferries to Dartmouth are fun and scenic (and cheap!)

💡 Travel Tips for Visiting Halifax

Best time to visit: Late spring to early fall (May–October)

Weather: Can be breezy and cool even in summer — pack layers!

Local terms: “The peninsula” refers to the downtown core

Safety: Halifax is generally very safe for tourists

Tipping: 15–20% at restaurants and cafés is standard

📸 Best Photo Spots in Halifax

Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse

Citadel Hill cannon views

Waterfront boardwalk at sunset

Colorful houses in Lunenburg

Halifax Central Library (futuristic architecture!)

💬 Why Visit Halifax?

Halifax is a city of the sea—its air is filled with salt and song, its people are warm, and its beauty is understated but unforgettable. It’s a destination that blends the serenity of a small town with the energy of a creative capital. Whether you’re chasing coastal hikes, local brews, seafood feasts, or maritime stories, Halifax delivers on all fronts.

Come for the lighthouse views, stay for the soulful hospitality.