17 Top Things to Do in Halifax

With historical landmarks, picturesque waterfront restaurants, and a great selection of seasonal events and festivals, there are plenty of fun things to do in Halifax. Whether visiting for a weekend or a month, fitting everything the city offers into a single trip is a tall order. To help you on your mission of seeing the best of this enchanting destination, these are the 17 must-see attractions in Halifax.

1. Halifax Citadel National Historic Site

Step back in time and explore three centuries of military history within the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site. Take a guided or self-guided tour any time. Or, visit between May and October for a full selection of special events, including live reenactments and ghost tours.

2. Halifax Boardwalk

Stroll along the Halifax Boardwalk for iconic views of the city. Stop at popular attractions and restaurants along the way, including the historic Alexander Keith's Brewery. Enjoy a brisk walk along the water, attend a seasonal festival, or enjoy a refreshing cocktail on an outdoor patio.

3. Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21

Uncover five decades of immigration history at the historic Pier 21. Called the "Ellis Island of Canada," this monument honours the many immigrants who passed through its doors. Browsing through the galleries of permanent and rotating exhibits has become a common tradition for all visitors to the city.

4. Halifax Public Gardens

Opened in 1867, the Halifax Public Gardens are lush 16-acre Victorian gardens. Located in downtown Halifax, the park provides beautiful open spaces with gazebos, ponds, and walkways in the middle of the city's urban neighbourhoods. Throughout the summer months, the Halifax Public Gardens are the perfect setting for an afternoon picnic. Meanwhile, in the winter, the park is illuminated for Glow Halifax, promising twinkling light displays for an evening walk.

5. Point Pleasant Park

Point Pleasant Park is a 75-hectare park at the south end of the Halifax Peninsula. It is the perfect spot for a natural outing near the city. The park features 39 km of easy hiking trails, leading to unique sites that include preserved fort ruins, coastal ecosystems, and cultural attractions. Spend a day at the beach, bike along the paths, or bring a basket for a picnic in the park. Plan your visit for an hour before sunset to enjoy some of the most beautiful views in the city.

6. Burke-Gaffney Observatory

Atlantic Canada is home to clear dark skies ideal for stargazing. But there is no better place to immerse in the wonders of the Milky Way than at the Burke-Gaffney Observatory. The observatory, on the Saint Mary's University Campus, offers private tours and open houses. They provide unforgettable experiences all year.

7. Historic Walking Tour

With countless historic buildings, art galleries, and attractions in its downtown area, the best way to experience Halifax is on a walking tour. While a tour guide is the best way to uncover the destination's hidden gems, this self-guided walking tour is a great way to experience the destination on a budget.

8. Peggy’s Cove Day Trip

No trip to Halifax would be complete without visiting Peggy's Cove. Located a thirty-minute bus ride from downtown, the iconic fishing community can be explored independently or as part of a tour. Be sure to pack your camera, as you will want to grab many photos of Canada's most iconic lighthouse.

9. Scenic Boat Tours

Among the many things to do in Halifax, exploring its iconic Halifax Harbour is an absolute must. There are several ways to get on the water, including kayaking or canoeing. But, the best way to see it all is along a scenic boat tour of the Halifax waterfront, Dartmouth waterfront, and Georges Island.

10. Fisherman’s Cove

Found in Eastern Passage, about 20 minutes from downtown, Fisherman's Cove is a must-visit community in the Halifax area. This restored, 200-year-old fishing village has much to do. You can shop at boutique shops, dine at local restaurants, and explore historic fishing culture at the docks and MacCormacks Beach Provincial Park.

11. Halifax Donair

Halifax has an eclectic food scene and is renowned for its seafood and bars. However, a recent must-try Halifax delight is its donairs. A longstanding staple amongst Halifax locals, a donair is a spicy gyro-like wrap covered in onions, tomatoes, and a sweet sauce that originated in the city in the 1970s. Known as the official food of Halifax, a donair can be ordered at any of the city's Pizza Corner Restaurants and is traditionally had as a late-night snack.

12. Maritime Museum of the Atlantic

Halifax’s Maritime Museum of the Atlantic is the largest and oldest museum of its kind in Canada and is a top thing to do in Halifax. It has permanent and rotating exhibits that promise an exploration of the region’s maritime history. They include displays on the Halifax Explosion, the Titanic, and the CSS Acadia.

13. Halifax Seaport Farmers Market

Starting the year after the city's founding, Halifax's Seaport Farmers Market is the longest continuously run farmers market in North America. It has become an essential local experience for any visitor. Here you will find a variety of local goods, ranging from soaps and jewelry to baked treats and fresh produce.

14. Neptune Theatre

Boasting a great lineup of shows throughout the year, the Neptune Theatre is Atlantic Canada's premier theatrical destination. A must-visit for theatre lovers, the theatre promises plenty of family fun for your visit to the city.

15. The Discovery Centre

With five state-of-the-art themed galleries and Canada's only immersive Dome Theatre, The Discovery Centre is one of the best things to do in Halifax for families of all ages. The museum's featured exhibit gallery changes three times a year, while its permanent exhibits include the Ocean, Health, and Flight Galleries.

16. Emera Oval

Built for the 2011 Canada Winter Games, the Emera Oval became a quick staple of the Halifax community, resulting in it staying long after the games' closing ceremonies. Today, skating on its frozen surface is a quintessential winter activity in Halifax. Meanwhile, in the summer, visitors trade their skates for rollerblades and bikes as they ride along the picturesque track in the Halifax Commons.

17. Halifax Nightlife

Part of Hailfax's charm is its great selection of nightlife spots. For live music, check out The Lower Deck. Looking for a place to watch the big game? It doesn't get much better than HFX Sports Bar and Grill. Alternatively, head over to Argyle Street for a great variety of venues promising social atmospheres and delicious cocktails.

Begin planning your trip to Atlantic Canada today. Book your room at Cameo Hotel and Suites and experience everything Halifax has to offer.