places to visit in halifax in october

10 Things To Do in Halifax This October

Cue the fall festivals, cozy vibes, and spooky spirit – step into a new season with our list of 10 things to do in Halifax this October.

1. Immerse yourself in full colour at an art festival

If art is your jam, be sure to check out some of Halifax’s most beloved festivals happening around the city.

Prismatic Arts Festival showcases and celebrates innovative work by Indigenous artists and artists of colour from across Canada, bringing audiences vibrant, boundary-pushing new works in theatre, dance, music, film, visual arts, media arts, and spoken word.

Bundle up, grab your pals, and get ready for Nocturne , a city-wide nighttime art show filled with interactive displays by incredible artists. Many local businesses offer special deals, free treats, and fun workshops, making it the perfect excuse to get out and explore.

Prismatic Arts Festival | September 29 – October 8 | Multiple locations

Nocturne | October 12-15 | Multiple locations

2. Catch an explosive NHL game at the Scotiabank Centre

Welcome home three-time Stanley Cup champion, two-time Olympic gold medalist and Cole Harbour native Sidney Crosby as he and the Pittsburgh Penguins meet the Ottawa Senators for the Nova Scotia Showdown at the Scotiabank Centre .

Looking to grab a bite to eat before the game? Halifax’s downtown core is packed with restaurants of every kind – whether you’re looking for kid-approved eateries or an intimate date destination, grab a meal at a local restaurant, just steps from the Scotiabank Centre.

Nova Scotia Showdown | October 2 | Scotiabank Centre

3. Fill up on local goods at a festive fall market

Halifax is bursting with fall markets this month. Stock up on farm-fresh produce and browse through one-of-a-kind goods from local artisans at one of these festive markets for the perfect autumn outing.

Fall Vintage Show | October 7-8 | Light House Arts Centre

Halloween Town Market | October 14 | Halifax Brewery Market

Ooky Spooky Spryfield Market | October 15 | Spryfield Lions Rink

Pumpkin Fest Market | October 15 | Fisherman’s Cove

Witches Market | October 21 | Halifax Forum

4. Dare to be scared at the Bluenose Ghosts Festival

Beware! The Bluenose Ghosts Festival at Alderney Landing is back and bigger than ever with 22 nights of horror this October. This festival is not for the faint of heart – with a haunted mansion, an escape room, spiritual readings, a crypt ride, and a haunted selfie park, there are plenty of ways to be spooked.

Bluenose Ghosts Festival | October 6-8, 12-15, 19-22, 24-31 | Alderney Landing

5. Catch peak fall foliage

Fall brings crisp air and vibrant pops of red and yellow to Halifax. Catch the best views of the leaves and landscapes up close on a hike in the region, or climb aboard a Fall Colours Cruise along the Northwest Arm to marvel from afar.

Fall Colours Cruise | October 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22 | Depart from Halifax Waterfront

6. Spook yourself into the Halloween spirit on a festive tour, walk, or paddle

Whether you’re in the mood for a chilling guided tour, a haunted walk, or a bewitching paddle, there are tons of ways to get festive for Halloween this month.

Halifax Citadel Ghost Tours | Friday & Saturday evenings until October 28 | Halifax Citadel National Historic Site

Zombie Walk | October 8 | Halifax Public Gardens

Halloween Walk The Trail | October 28 | Gaetz Brook Greenway

Witches Paddle | October 29 | St. Mary’s Boat Club

7. Experience awe at a multi-sensory candlelit concert

Settle into an evening of Halloween classics under the gentle glow of candles for a hauntingly magical experience throughout October at The Spatz Theatre . Tickets are selling quickly – grab yours before it’s too late.

Candlelight: A Haunted Evening of Halloween Classics | October 20, 24, 29 | The Spatz Theatre

8. Celebrate light, love, and culture at the Diwali Carnival

Come together and celebrate India’s most awaited festival at the Halifax Forum . Sample gourmet bites, browse the cultural market, and enjoy live dancing and exciting performances. Join in on making the biggest Rangoli design on the East Coast and settle into a vibrant fireworks show during this energetic festival of lights.

Diwali Carnival | October 27-29 | Halifax Forum

9. Warm up to fall with a festive drink

From decadent pumpkin spice lattes to velvety-smooth apple cider, we’ve rounded up 10 must-try cafés around the Halifax region with festive fall drinks to warm the soul.

10. Geek out at Atlantic Canada's biggest Sci-Fi Convention

Dust off your wigs and dig out your dice, Hal-Con is back bigger and better than ever. With a jam-packed schedule of panels, Q&As, workshops, a costume contest, and a dedicated gaming floor, there’s truly something for everyone to experience at the biggest, geekiest sci-fi convention in Atlantic Canada.

Hal-Con | October 27-29 | Halifax Convention Centre

Welcome to Halifax

P'jilita'q wla kjipuktuk.

Halifax is in Mi’kma’ki, the ancestral and unceded territory of the Mi’kmaq people. The people of the Mi’kmaw Nation have lived on this territory for millennia, and we acknowledge them as the past, present and future caretakers of this land. Historically, a land acknowledgment is a traditional practice shared amongst Indigenous groups to recognize the Indigenous land and territory they are visiting. Today a land acknowledgement remains a way to express one’s gratitude to the Indigenous people for being stewards of the land that we live and work on.

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What to do in Halifax in October 2024
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Why you should visit Halifax in October

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Halifax's top places to visit in October

Flights, tours, and hotels in Halifax

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October is a fantastic time to visit Halifax . The fall foliage paints the city in warm hues, and there’s a palpable sense of excitement as the locals gear up for the upcoming holiday season. The weather is still pleasant, and there are numerous events and activities to enjoy. Whether you’re a fan of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply want to savor the charm of a bustling coastal city, Halifax has something for everyone in October.

October brings crisp, cool days and a kaleidoscope of colors as the leaves turn. The average temperature in October hovers around 50°F (10°C), making it ideal for exploring the city on foot or heading out to see the fall foliage. The evenings can get chilly, so it’s advisable to carry a light jacket or sweater.

Halifax Pop Explosion

Halifax Pop Explosion is a music festival that takes place in various venues throughout the city, featuring local and international artists. The festival celebrates a diverse range of musical genres, from indie and rock to hip-hop and electronic, making it a must-visit event for music enthusiasts.

Hal-Con is Atlantic Canada’s largest multi-genre sci-fi, fantasy, and gaming convention. It’s a paradise for fans of pop culture, with a vibrant mix of cosplay, panel discussions, gaming competitions, and opportunities to meet celebrities. Whether you’re a dedicated fan or just curious, Hal-Con offers an immersive experience for all.

Halifax International Film Festival

The Halifax International Film Festival showcases a thought-provoking selection of independent and international films. It’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in captivating stories and cinematography from around the world, and engage in discussions with filmmakers and film enthusiasts.

Halifax’s top places to visit in October

The halifax citadel.

The Halifax Citadel is a historic military fort with stunning views overlooking the city and harbor. In October, the changing leaves add a breathtaking backdrop to the fascinating living history museum, where visitors can experience what life was like for soldiers in the 19th century.

Peggy’s Cove

Peggy’s Cove, a picturesque fishing village, is a short drive from Halifax . In October, the iconic lighthouse and rugged coastline stand out against the vibrant fall colors, offering breathtaking photo opportunities and a peaceful escape from the city.

The Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk

The Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk is a bustling promenade lined with shops, restaurants, and entertainment. In October, the crisp air and fall ambiance make it an inviting place for leisurely strolls, enjoying live music, and browsing local art and handicrafts.

Point Pleasant Park

Nestled on the city’s southern tip, Point Pleasant Park is a serene retreat where visitors can immerse themselves in nature trails, historic landmarks, and sprawling ocean views. In October, the park is adorned in autumnal splendor, making it an ideal spot for a peaceful escape from urban life.

Don’t forget to check out local farmer’s markets in October, such as the Halifax Seaport Farmers’ Market, where you can savor fresh produce, artisanal crafts, and delicious treats.

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22 Fun Things to Do in Halifax, Nova Scotia

I first visited Halifax on a family road trip to the Maritimes when I was 11 years old. Sadly, my strongest memory from that trip was our dog puking in the RV! So I was really looking forward to getting to know Halifax and the Maritimes a lot better on our October 2021 honeymoon . And turns out, there’s a ton of things to do in Halifax!

I thought Halifax, being a city of not even half a million people, would be pretty quiet and dull. But as I researched, I found more and more things to add to our Halifax itinerary. And by the end of our six days in Halifax, I felt like we could’ve spent another six days there and not run out of fun things to do!

Ready? Let’s dive into 22 fun things to do in Halifax!

Halifax, Nova Scotia is a fun city with tons of culture, activities, history and incredible food. Check out 22 things to do in Halifax! #halifax #novascotia #canada #waterfront #travel #travelcanada #itinerary #halifaxitinerary #lunenburg #peggyscove #lighthouse

Halifax, Nova Scotia is a really fun city with tons of culture, activities, history and incredible food . It’s also ideally situated for some beautiful half or full day trips to see the scenery outside of the city. And it makes a great base for a Nova Scotia road trip!

As a Canadian who grew up in Toronto and now lives in Vancouver, I’ve certainly neglected the east coast of the country. But after only a few days in Halifax, I turned to Colin and asked if we could move there. Seriously, I loved it so much!

And while we probably won’t move there (it’s too cold and there’s not enough sushi), I do highly recommend Halifax as a place to visit. Below I’m sharing my suggestions for 22 things to do in and around Halifax, Nova Scotia!

Table of Contents

22 fun things to do in Halifax MAP

1. Tour the Halifax Citadel

The Halifax Citadel National Historic Site is one of the top things to do in Halifax – literally, it’s at the top of the city! Halifax is a city of hills and the Citadel sits on one of the highest ones. But the trek up there is so worth it!

After walking up Citadel Hill, we caught our breath and admired the view. We also happened to walk up just as a military troop was setting off a canon, which was a fun welcome to the site! Once inside, we joined a guided tour to learn more about the history of the Citadel as a defensive base for the city.

Once the tour was over, we were free to explore more of the Citadel, which included mini museums, rooms set up to look like they would have when soldiers lived there in the 1800 and 1900s, and people dressed in character clothing, ready to answer any questions. There was so much to see and explore, including a battleground set up like the WWII battle at Juno Beach.

We could’ve spent an entire day at the Citadel – there was truly that much to explore! I’m not a huge history buff but I think they did such a great job of presenting artifacts in a really interesting way. In non-covid times, there are lots of other activities you can do at the Halifax Citadel too like go on a ghost tour, enjoy a whiskey tasting or participate in their Soldier for a Day program.

2. Walk the Halifax Waterfront

I’m a sucker for any city with a cute waterfront and Halifax has to have one of the cutest. I loved walking down the Halifax Waterfront where you’ll not only see beautiful views across the water but you’ll also find restaurants, sculptures, food stalls, museums, shops, playgrounds and more.

There’s also tons of seating so you can grab a bowl of poutine or a lobster roll and then find yourself a Muskoka Chair along the water. On a weekend (or I assume anytime in the summer), the Halifax Waterfront can get pretty crowded but it’s such a fun atmosphere to be out with everyone eating, drinking, shopping, playing and walking.

3. Stroll through the Historic Properties

The Historic Properties are a series of warehouses that have been converted into a small shopping area with a number of boutique shops and restaurants. The cool thing about these warehouses is that they were built in the 1800s and perfectly mix the historic and contemporary sides of Halifax together.

Sadly, we weren’t able to visit the Historic Properties on our honeymoon but I’d love to check them out the next time we’re in Halifax.

4. Snap a photo of the drunken lampposts

the way things are, drunken lamp posts in halifax, nova scotia

A can’t-miss spot on the Halifax Waterfront has to be the famous sculpture, “The Way Things Are,” better known as the drunken lampposts. The three lampposts are described as, “Nakedly honest portraits of unseemly behaviours that are often playing out on our own streets after dark.”

The first lamppost is leaning off the pier with a stream of water shooting into the harbour. The second lamppost is looking down concerned at the third lamppost, which is lying slumped on the ground.

I got a good laugh when I first saw these lampposts in person. Have fun deciding which lamppost you most closely resemble after a night out drinking!

5. Wander around the Halifax Public Gardens

The Halifax Public Gardens are a beautiful place to spend time out in nature in the heart of the city. Unfortunately, we didn’t have time to visit when we were in Halifax this past October, but I’ve heard these gardens are gorgeous and worth a stop.

They’re open daily and admission to the gardens is free. There’s even a holiday light display if you happen to be visiting in December!

6. Take in a Halifax Mooseheads game at the Scotiabank Centre

I’m not a huge hockey fan, or sports fan in general, but my husband definitely is. So one thing he really wanted to do on our trip to Halifax was a see a live Mooseheads hockey game. And it was really fun!

The Mooseheads are a junior hockey team, so younger and less professional than teams in the NHL. But they’re such a blast to watch and the whole city is really behind them. Tickets are cheap and we had a great time cheering the Mooseheads onto a 6-4 victory over the Shawinigan Cataractes!

7. Shop at a local farmers’ market

There are two main farmers’ markets along the Halifax Waterfront, Halifax Seaport Farmers’ Market and Halifax Brewery Farmers’ Market.

Sadly, due to limited opening hours, we actually weren’t able to visit either. We were just about to enter the Seaport one when a security guard at the front door told us they had just closed. Alas, maybe you’ll have better luck than us on your trip to Halifax!

8. Check out the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic

Maritime Museum of the Atlantic in Halifax, Nova Scotia

If you like big ships, you won’t want to miss the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic . I’m not a huge museum person or nautical lover, but for only $5 admission, I enjoyed my time at this museum.

There were lots of boats big and small to admire, and a ton of information on the naval history of Halifax and Canada. My favourite part was the exhibit about the Titanic, as many of the people who died during the ship’s sinking were actually buried in Halifax.

9. Take the ferry to Dartmouth

halifax skyline from the ferry to dartmouth

Across the harbour from Halifax proper is Dartmouth, a small urban area within the Halifax Regional Municipality. You can drive over a bridge to get to Dartmouth but the ferry is definitely the better way to get there.

For the same price as riding the bus, you can enjoy a short and scenic ferry ride across the harbour. Make sure to get a seat at the back of the boat so you can see the Halifax skyline as you sail away.

10. Window shop in Dartmouth

Lake City Cider in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia

I’m going to be honest: There’s not a ton to do in Dartmouth. Colin and I had plans to spend an afternoon in Dartmouth ahead of our dinner reservation. But after a quick stroll up and down the main street, we found ourselves with hours to kill.

That being said, I still think Dartmouth is worth a visit; there are a number of food stops that shouldn’t be missed ( check out the best places to eat in Halifax and Dartmouth here ). Outside of food, there’s a farmer’s market at Alderney Landing, where you’ll get off the ferry, that was sadly closed when we arrived.

While in Dartmouth admire the street art, check out a cute home goods store called Kept, and grab a drink at one of Dartmouth’s many cideries or breweries.

11. Get on the water

Halifax has a number of boating activities that you can enjoy: harbour cruises, free kayak rentals, whale watching, and catamaran tours that include dinner and drinks. When we visited in October, most of these options were closed for the season. But if you happen to visit Halifax in the summer, you’ll definitely want to spend some time on the water!

12. Visit the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21

Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 in Halifax, Nova Scotia

One of the best things to do in Halifax is visit the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 . This was absolutely one of my favourite things that we did in Halifax and I highly recommend it.

Being a major port and on Canada’s coast, Halifax was once a huge centre for immigration into Canada. From 1928 to 1971, one million immigrants arrived in Halifax on boats, had their paperwork processed at Pier 21, and then took a train from there to their final destination in Canada.

This museum was so incredibly well done! The first half shares the history of Pier 21 with areas set up exactly as they would have been back then. You could walk along the galley of a ship, into the processing office and onto a train, following the journey of a new immigrant.

There was a video with reflections from immigrants and suitcases where you could see what families packed for their journey to Canada. On the other side of the museum, they shared more broadly about immigration to Canada, not only through Halifax.

I loved how interactive this museum was, with videos, games and visual displays. It was so engaging and informative. I loved seeing the photos, artifacts and quotes from immigrants. I also really appreciated that they didn’t shy away from some of the uglier sides of Canada’s history, like the Chinese head tax, impact of immigration on Indigenous peoples, and immigrants who were turned away or mistreated.

My favourite part of the museum was the section where visitors were encouraged to leave their own stories of immigration. I couldn’t stop crying or smiling reading these beautiful notes by people reminiscing about arriving in Canada through Pier 21 or thanking their families for making the choice to come to Canada.

The whole experience made me feel very proud to be Canadian, despite our imperfections, and extremely connected to my country and family history.

Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 in Halifax, Nova Scotia visitor note about immigration experience

Lastly, the museum offers the opportunity to meet with an archivist to learn more about your family history. With just a little bit of information, they’re able to pull up immigration records and tell you how your family journeyed to Canada.

Family history after 1935 is private and not publicly available, so I wasn’t able to learn more about my own family. But if your family came to Canada before 1935, definitely take advantage of this cool service!

13. Look in the window at St. Paul’s Church

St. Paul’s Parish House deacon in the window

If you find yourself walking past St. Paul’s, don’t forget to look up! If you look closely, you’ll see the silhouette of a deacon in one of the upper windows of the church. Legend says that at the time of the 1917 Halifax Explosion, the intense heat burnt the deacon’s portrait into the glass pane of the window.

True? Probably not. But still worth spotting!

14. Stroll through Dalhousie University

Dalhousie University is the big school on Canada’s east coast with its main campus in Halifax. When I was applying to universities, I almost applied to Dal but decided to head to the west coast instead and attend UBC in Vancouver.

If you’re considering post-secondary studies, Dalhousie is definitely worth a visit. And even if you’re done with school, it’s still a pretty campus to walk through.

15. Tour HMCS Sackville

The HMCS Sackville was once part of the Royal Canadian Navy and now serves as a museum ship in the Halifax Harbour. If you’re interested in Canada’s naval history, or just the opportunity to walk around a huge ship, definitely pay the HMCS Sackville a visit.

Double check on their website what their opening hours are as sometimes the ship is taken out of the harbour for maintenance.

16. Visit Fisherman’s Cove

Fisherman’s Cove is a little fishing village about 20 minutes from downtown Halifax. There’s a beach, cute houses and a harbour to admire. If you want to visit McNabbs Island, an island in the middle of the Halifax Harbour, the best way is to catch a boat from Fisherman’s Cove.

If you’re looking to do some unique exploring around Halifax, an afternoon spent in Fisherman’s Cove and on McNabbs Island is the way to do it!

17. Snap a photo at the Sidney Crosby sign in Cole Harbour

sidney crosby sign in cole harbour, nova scotia

Calling all hockey lovers! This one is for you. As you may know, legendary hockey player Sidney Crosby is Canadian and hails from the small town of Cole Harbour, just outside of Halifax. My husband, Colin, is a big fan and wanted us to go see the Sidney Crosby sign in Cole Harbour before we left Halifax. So we did.

I was expecting a pretty huge sign. After all, Sidney Crosby is a big deal! He could really put Cole Harbour on the map. I pictured a huge billboard, maybe a mural on the side of a building or a statue of Crosby prominently erected in the town square. Instead, we found a tiny little banner across a town sign in the Walmart parking lot. In fact, the sign advertising Cole Harbour’s 2018 Community Spirit Award is more prominent!

18. Wander around Peggys Cove

peggys cove lighthouse outside of halifax, nova scotia, canada

The next few things to do in Halifax aren’t technically in Halifax, but they are within an easy drive of the city and can be visited on a day trip (or even just a half day). Peggys Cove is undoubtedly the most famous day trip from Halifax.

Less than an hour’s drive from Halifax lies the most iconic lighthouse in Canada, and perhaps the whole world, Peggys Point Lighthouse. I can tell you that this picturesque lighthouse really is pretty, and well worth the drive. We had fun scrambling on the rocks and taking in different view points of the lighthouse (but avoid the black rocks as they’re slippery and people have died falling off and being swept out to sea).

After you’ve gotten your fill of the lighthouse, there are a number of little shops and restaurants in Peggys Cove for you to enjoy. Most are very much catered to tourists, but it’s still fun to shop and eat in the area. We had lunch next door to the lighthouse and enjoyed it – especially the giant scallops!

Being so popular, Peggys Cove can get very busy, so try and time your visit outside of peak hours. When we visited in October 2021, a viewing platform was being built so the iconic lighthouse can be enjoyed by those unable to access the rocks.

19. See the three churches in Mahone Bay

three churches of Mahone Bay, Nova Scotia

Just an hour from Halifax is another picturesque town, Mahone Bay. This town is famous for its three churches that stand (almost) side by side along the shore.

On your way in and out of town, try to find a spot to pull off and take a photo of the churches. I thought I had found us a good one but the view was kind of obstructed and we had to turn into someone’s driveway. Nonetheless, we got a photo, and then walked by the churches to admire them up close.

20. Window shop in Mahone Bay

Besides the view of the churches, the town of Mahone Bay is worth a wander too. There are lots of cute shops, cafes and restaurants. When we visited in October 2021, there was a scarecrow festival happening with funny scarecrows popping up around town.

We enjoyed wandering the main street, seeing a pewter demonstration at Amos Pewter jewelry shop, and walking along the bay.

21. Stroll around Lunenburg

Just 15 minutes from Mahone Bay is the town of Lunenburg. This town on a hill is another great place for window shopping, enjoying the views and strolling by the water. There are lots of amazing restaurants (including one of my favourites in all of Nova Scotia!) and shops to stop at, as well as harbour cruises you can enjoy.

We visited Lunenburg from Halifax on a beautifully sunny day and just enjoyed strolling around the town then dining al fresco. I’ve also heard good things about a walking tour and visiting the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic, although we didn’t have time for either when we visited.

22. Visit the Bluenose II in Lunenburg

where the blue nose II sits in lunenburg, nova scotia

Of course, if you’re in Lunenburg, you have to visit the ship that put Lunenburg on the map. The Bluenose II is the ship famously seen on Canada’s dime (well, technically, the one on our dime is the original Bluenose, but this is her successor).

The original Bluenose was launched from Lunenburg in 1921 and became known as the “Queen of the North Atlantic” after winning the Fishermen’s Trophy 17 years in a row. She was placed on Canada’s dime in 1937 before sadly striking a reef and ending her career in 1946.

In 1963, the Bluenose II was launched. It was built by many of the same people who worked on the original, and now serves as a Nova Scotia’s sailing ambassador around North America. When the Bluenose II is in its home port in Lunenburg, you can walk onboard, go on a harbour cruise or even become a Deckhand for the Day.

As 2021 was the centennial anniversary of the original Bluenose launch, the Bluenose II was busy sailing around the Maritimes celebrating its big birthday. Sadly, that means it was not in port when we visited Lunenburg.

Final thoughts: My top 7 tips for your visit to Halifax

selfie at the halifax citadel, tips for things to do in halifax

Here are a few things to keep in mind to get the most out of your visit to Halifax, Nova Scotia:

Halifax is a very hilly city. Be prepared when you set out to walk anywhere that you might be climbing up or down the streets. For example, from the Halifax Waterfront to the Halifax Citadel is a 19 minute walk with an elevation gain of 65 metres (it’s only 14 minutes on the way down).
Check the weather report before you make any plans. We really enjoyed visiting in October as it wasn’t too cold or too hot, though it did get a bit windy. We skipped the summer crowds but still had really nice days where we could sit outside. I don’t know that I’d enjoy Halifax in the winter, but if you do visit then, dress warm!
If you want to get on the water in Halifax, you’ll have to visit in the summer. As I mentioned above, almost all of the boat trip options were closed by the time we arrived in mid-October. So if a harbour cruise or whale watching is important to you, time your visit to Halifax accordingly.
If you’re staying in the city, you don’t need a car. You can walk (mind the hills!) or take public transit wherever you want to go in Halifax. There’s a reliable and affordable bus system that will take you around the city.
However, if you’d like to visit places outside of Halifax like Peggys Cove, Mahone Bay and/or Lunenburg, you may want a car. We liked having a car so we could make stops along the way, visit at our own pace and avoid peak tourist times. But if you don’t want to drive, there are lots of tour buses that visit these locations.
If I had to narrow down my list of 22 things to do in Halifax to my top three it would be the Halifax Citadel, Halifax Waterfront and Canadian Museum of Immigration. Don’t miss these awesome sites!
Last tip: Check out the cute houses! I really loved the residential homes in Halifax and loved admiring them anytime we drove, walked or took a bus around the city. They’re colourful, colonial and so cute!

All right, there you have it: All the things to do in Halifax to fill your Nova Scotia itinerary! Have you been to Halifax before? What did you love about the city or what are you looking forward to when you visit Halifax one day?

Plan your Nova Scotia trip with these blog posts:

What to Eat in Halifax, Nova Scotia
5 Day Cabot Trail Itinerary on Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia
Our Atlantic Canada Honeymoon Itinerary

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Riana Ang-Canning is a travel writer who has been sharing her global adventures as the founder of Teaspoon of Adventure since 2012. In that time, Riana has travelled to almost 50 countries on 6 continents, including interning in Eswatini, working in Tokyo, road tripping New Zealand and living abroad in Prague. Riana helps everyday travellers discover the world on a mid-budget, proving that you don't have to be athletic, wealthy or nomadic to have an adventure!

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Things to do in Halifax in October

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Looking for a different month?

October is a good time to visit Halifax . The weather is usually moderately chilly and breezy, with temperatures ranging from 47—58°F (8—14°C). There are plenty of events to check out and activities to try in Halifax during this time. Some of our top recommendations: hike to the top of Citadel Hill for panoramic views of the city, take a scenic boat tour of the Halifax Harbour, go whale watching in the Bay of Fundy, and more!

Halifax has plenty to offer for visitors of all ages and interests. In this article, we tell you the top things to see and do for your October trip to Halifax. Get inspired by the events, activities, attractions, and experiences unique to October. We’ll let you know where to explore events based on your interests, whether that’s food, culture, art, music, sport or others.

We’ll let you know everything you need to prepare for the weather in Halifax in October. Learn about what to wear and pack for your trip, the average temperatures throughout October, temperature changes from morning to evening and much more.

Experiences
Weather and what to wear
Attractions

Best events and things to do in Halifax in October

Top experiences in october, hike to the top of citadel hill for panoramic views of the city, take a scenic boat tour of the halifax harbour, go whale watching in the bay of fundy, sample seasonal craft beers at local breweries in halifax, visit the halifax citadel national historic site, take a ghost tour of halifax's historic sites, attend the halifax pop explosion music festival, take a scenic drive along the cabot trail in cape breton highlands national park, explore the halifax seaport farmers' market, holidays in halifax in october.

Thanksgiving Day ( October 14 )
Halloween ( October 31 )

Other notable holidays

Labour Day ( September 2 )
National Day for Truth and Reconciliation ( September 30 )
Remembrance Day ( November 11 )
Anniversary of the Statute of Westminster ( December 11 )
Christmas Eve ( December 24 )
Christmas Day ( December 25 )
Boxing Day ( December 26 )
Weather in Halifax in October

Temperatures on an average day in Halifax in October

The average temperature in Halifax in October for a typical day ranges from a high of 58°F (14°C) to a low of 47°F (8°C). Some would describe it as moderately chilly and breezy.

For comparison, the hottest month in Halifax , August, has days with highs of 72°F (22°C) and lows of 61°F (16°C). The coldest month, January has days with highs of 33°F (1°C) and lows of 22°F (-6°C). This graph shows how an average day looks like in Halifax in October based on historical data.

Visiting Halifax? See our Halifax Trip Planner.

Historical temperature average in October

General weather summary, what to wear in october, best attractions for halifax in october.

All road trips from Halifax

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Explore nearby places

East Chezzetcook
Eastern Passage
Cole Harbour
Harrietsfield
Hatchet Lake
East Lawrencetown
Lawrencetown
Ketch Harbour
Lower Sackville
Hammonds Plains
Beaver Bank
Terence Bay
Three Fathom Harbour
Upper Tantallon
Glen Margaret

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12 Best Things to Do in Halifax, Nova Scotia

The capital of Nova Scotia, the seaside city of Halifax, lies on a huge harbor of the same name and is an important economic and cultural center for Atlantic Canada. This was the first port of call for most European immigrants to the country in the 19th and 20th centuries.

Stretching three kilometers in length, its waterfront is home to historic wharves and warehouses, markets and museums. Despite its smallish size, there are many things to do in Halifax. Besides delving into the city’s seafaring past, you can also explore the peninsula’s parks and gardens, excellent art galleries and beautiful old buildings. There are also many tourist attractions relating to its rich maritime history and heritage.

12. Seaport Farmers’ Market

Set along the city’s waterfront is the Seaport Farmers’ Market which is, remarkably, the oldest continually operating market of its kind in North America. Founded in 1750, its countless stands and stalls have fish, fresh produce and baked goods to buy with the market open almost every day of the year.

Over the years, the historic farmers market has been held in many locations. Many of its vast array of vendors moved to the vibrant arts and cultural district of Halifax Seaport in 2011. Here you can sample some local Canadian staples, shop for souvenirs, or stop off for a bite to eat or a coffee at one of its stalls.

11. Fairview Lawn Cemetery

Located around ten minutes’ drive to the northwest of the city center is the peaceful and picturesque Fairview Lawn Cemetery. Mostly known for being the final resting place for over a hundred victims of the infamous sinking of the RMS Titanic, its paths take you past rows of sombre graves and memorials and monuments to the maritime tragedy.

In total 121 of the sunken ship’s crew and passengers are interred here with many of the gray granite markers inscribed with their name and date of death. Among the most popular are those of William Denton Cox and The Unknown Child; both of which have interesting and informative plaques on the unfortunate victims.

10. Art Gallery of Nova Scotia

Another of Halifax’s standout tourist attractions is the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia, situated a stone’s throw from the waterfront in downtown Halifax. Now located in Dominion Building, the museum was opened in 1908 with further floors to be found in the adjacent Provincial Building.

While its collection of 18,000 photos, paintings and sculptures mainly focus on local Nova Scotian and Canadian artists, its exhibits also include plenty of works by international artists.

Its galleries house more than fifty works by the folk artist Maud Lewis, as well as artworks by several First Nations artists. With images from famous Canadian artists such as Maud Lewis next to portraits of numerous Nova Scotia notables, the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia is not to be missed.

9. Discovery Centre

Full of incredible exhibits and interactive experiences and activities, the Discovery Centre is sure to educate and entertain both adults and children alike. Since opening in 1990, the science museum has stimulated an interest in science and technology for countless generations of locals and tourists.

Set next to the Seaport Farmers’ Market, its interactive, hands-on exhibits explore everything from energy and the ocean to space and flight. The state-of-the-art center also has exciting experiments and science shows for visitors to watch which explain and highlight how the world works.

Also, the fun and family-friendly museum’s on-site cinema shows educational films with discovery days, science lectures, and technology workshops regularly taking place.

8. Point Pleasant Park

Occupying the southernmost tip of the Halifax Peninsula is Point Pleasant Park which lies just ten minutes’ drive from the city center. Besides boasting some interesting historic sights, it also has great outdoor activities to try and commanding views out over Halifax Harbour.

Dotted about its scenic and sprawling confines are the Sailor’s Memorial and Prince of Wales Tower, the oldest remaining Martello tower in North America. Once home to numerous batteries, the park now has thirty or so kilometers of trails to hike, run or cycle along amidst its verdant forests.

During the summer months, it also hosts Shakespeare by the Sea when numerous outdoor plays and productions take place.

7. Halifax Harbour Ferry

When in town, a great thing to do in Halifax is go for a ride on the Harbour Ferry which is the longest-running ferry service in North America. Since 1752, boats have ferried both passengers and goods across the massive expanse of water, with trips from Halifax to Dartmouth now only taking fifteen minutes.

From the Halifax Ferry Terminal, visitors can either take a ferry to Alderney Landing or Woodside, both of which are located in Dartmouth. Once powered by horses and then by steam, the fast ferries now whisk you to Dartmouth’s growing arts and dining scenes in no time at all.

On the way, you can enjoy divine views of Halifax Harbour and snap photos of the city’s scenic shores and skyline.

6. Halifax Central Library

As it boasts some of the most attractive and unique architecture in the city, Halifax Central Library is certainly worth stopping by.

Since opening in 2014, the library has been a firm favorite with both locals and tourists alike and regularly hosts talks, cultural events and shows. Besides its huge collection of books, it also has art installations and an auditorium on offer alongside cosy cafes and community rooms.

Said to resemble a stack of books, the distinctive design of the five-story structure has earned lots of plaudits with the interior of the modern building being just as striking. This is because its sun-filled central atrium is crisscrossed by stairways which lead up to a sunroom gallery space and rooftop cafe and terrace.

5. Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21

Situated on the Halifax Waterfront is the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21, one of the nation’s most important museums. As over a million immigrants passed through the former ocean liner terminal between 1928 and 1971, it is often compared to Ellis Island in the States.

Founded in 1999, the museum shows visitors what it was like to immigrate through Pier 21 in the past. As well as exploring the ocean immigration shed’s artifacts and exhibits, there are oral history interviews to listen to and short videos to watch. The museum is also home to a moving memorial and a lovely wall of service, honour and tribute to all those who contributed to Canada as a nation.

4. Maritime Museum of the Atlantic

Looking out over Halifax Harbour is the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic which offers a fascinating look into the city’s seafaring heritage and culture. One of the most popular places to visit in town, it has a huge collection of over 30,000 items to explore, with its artifacts and exhibits relating to the sinking of the RMS Titanic being one of its main attractions.

First opened in 1948, the museum is home to everything, from charts and small crafts to models of ships and the CSS Acadia; a steam-powered survey ship. While some galleries look at the history of sailing or the age of steam, others focus instead on events such as the sinking of the Titanic or the devastating Halifax Explosion of 1917.

3. Halifax Citadel

Set in the center of the city is the star-shaped Halifax Citadel which looms over downtown from atop of its prominent hilltop. Such is its strategic position that four forts have been built in the same spot since 1749 with the current citadel having been completed in 1856.

Besides wandering around the grounds and fortifications of the National Historic Site, visitors can also stop by its on-site Army Museum. As well as weapons and uniforms, it has interesting exhibits on the fort which was used during the American Revolution, American Civil War, and both World Wars, amongst others. A popular time to visit is at midday when reenactors fire the traditional noon-gun which acts as a reminder of the fort’s role in Halifax’s history.

2. Halifax Public Gardens

Just to the southwest of the citadel, you can find the Halifax Public Gardens which were first opened in 1875. One of the finest Victorian-era gardens in North America, its gorgeous grounds have paths and ponds to amble past with flower beds, fountains, and sculptures also dotted about.

Enclosed within its intricate wrought-iron gate, you can find a huge variety of trees, plants and shrubs with the gardens having been created out of two older pre-existing parks. At its heart lies a beautiful old bandstand which sometimes hosts concerts, ceremonies and celebrations in the summer months. Due to its scenic splendour, the gardens are a very popular place to picnic or take wedding and prom photos.

1. Waterfront Boardwalk

The undoubted highlight of any visit to Halifax is going for a stroll along the Waterfront Boardwalk, home to most of the city’s main sights. The boardwalk stretches three kilometres in total, and as well as historic buildings and heritage vessels, has museums, markets and monuments to visit.

As it lines the edge of Halifax Harbour and offers some epic views, wandering along the waterfront is certainly one of the best city walks in Canada. Besides all its attractions, there are countless shops and restaurants to visit, with art galleries and studios occupying its wharves and warehouses.

From the Waterfront Boardwalk you can also take some great ferry rides and boat tours which again highlight the city’s maritime history and heritage.

Map of Things to Do in Halifax

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12 Awesome Things to Do in Halifax, Canada

Last Updated: February 5, 2024

Make the most of your next trip to the Maritimes with this awesome guide to the best things to do in Halifax, Canada!

As the capital city of Nova Scotia, Halifax is packed with interesting tourist attractions and cool things to see and do.

Halifax boasts the world’s second-largest ice-free natural harbour, making it an economically important seaport for Eastern Canada.

It sits centrally on the east coast of Nova Scotia and was given the nickname “Warden of the North” because of its strong military presence.

There is a very strong maritime influence and culture in Halifax, and on the city’s many beaches pirates were hung until 1844.

The city was established by the British in 1749 when Edward Cornwallis arrived and brought 2,500 settlers.

The British were lured there by the large port and hopes of great fishing. Halifax was aptly named after the 2nd Earl of Halifax and then became the capital of Nova Scotia.

Winters are mild and summers are cool due to the gulf stream currents in the Atlantic Ocean.

Year-round precipitation is high and most days the city is covered in coastal fog.

But don’t let that keep you from visiting this beautiful city in Nova Scotia!

READ MORE: Check out our Canada travel guide to help you make the most of your visit to the Great White North.

Halifax is a very unique city and although one of the lesser travelled to cities in Canada, it shouldn’t be left out!

It has a multicultural population, a median age of 39, and a huge college scene.

The nightlife is plentiful, the music scene is abundant, and Halifax has more pubs per capita than any city in Canada.

You will find plenty of things to see and do for all ages.

From museums rich in maritime history and immigration, the friendly Haligonians who welcome you, to the historic landmarks and beautiful waterfront.

Table of Contents

1. Go on a Free Walking Tour of the City Along the Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk

2. spend time in the maritime museum of the atlantic, canada’s oldest and largest maritime museum , 3. visit the halifax citadel national historic site, 4. stroll through the halifax public gardens, 5. enjoy alexander keith’s brewery tour , 6. wander through the halifax seaport farmers market, 7. take in scenic views of the halifax waterfront while riding the halifax harbour ferry to dartmouth , 8. check out the canadian museum of immigration at pier 21, 9. ice skate at emera oval, 10. pay respects in st. paul’s church, 11. watch a shakespearean play on the water at point pleasant park, 12. observe the views from peggy’s cove, the best hostel in halifax nova scotia – hi-halifax heritage house hostel, best budget accommodation for couples – atlantica hotel halifax, best mid-range hotel in halifax – barrington hotel, best luxury hotel in halifax – prince george hotel, stories fine dining, the 12 best things to do in halifax nova scotia.

Just a short trip away from all the top-visited attractions in Nova Scotia, like Peggy’s Cove and the Bay of Fundy, Halifax is the perfect resting place between day trips to these spectacular destinations in Nova Scotia.

Some of the best attractions are right on the Halifax waterfront boardwalk. There are strategically placed forts in several of Halifax’s city parks.

Regardless of your interests, plan to build out a great itinerary from our list of what to do in Halifax Nova Scotia.

The best way to get acquainted with what to do in Halifax Nova Scotia is to go on the free walking tour offered by the city!

Learn about the history and culture of Halifax while seeing a few of the best sites the city has to offer.

You will start at the entrance to the famous National Historic Citadel , a fort built to protect the city.

From there you will see the city’s iconic three-story-tall clock tower that was built in the 1800s.

Heading towards the coast, you will walk along the Halifax waterfront, one of the longest waterfront boardwalks in the world.

No doubt one of the best things to do in Halifax is strolling around its beautiful waterfront!

Be on the lookout for the vibrant art murals and the beloved drunken lampposts. The boardwalk is lined with many shops, cafes, patios, restaurants and beer gardens.

You will be sure to find something to visit or do later on your trip!

The tour lasts around 60 mins and covers all the highlights of downtown Halifax.

Explore many maritime exhibits and view over 30,000 artifacts at Halifax’s most popular museum: The Maritime Museum of the Atlantic inside the Nova Scotia Museum.

The Maritime Museum of the Atlantic was conceived by several Canadian Royal Navy officers. They wanted a place to preserve navy artifacts and share its history.

The museum plays host to a variety of model ships and portraits throughout maritime history.

One of the more popular exhibits is the Shipwreck Treasures of Nova Scotia .

There you can find many artifacts recovered from the RMS Titanic.

Nova Scotia played a major role in helping recover bodies from the sinking of the famous ship. Also visit the Fairview Lawn Cemetery, a memorial to those who died in the Titanic.

If you are into history, this museum in downtown Halifax is definitely worth a visit. You could easily spend a few hours browsing the several exhibits.

You will gain an understanding of Nova Scotia’s maritime heritage, and how events and the sea played a part in shaping the culture of this amazing city!

Memorial To The Titanic Nova Scotia Canada

When you climb Citadel Hill and walk through the gates of the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site, you will see why the fort was built here to protect the city.

The expansive views of the city and the Halifax Harbour from Citadel Hill will take your breath away!

Though it never saw a battle, the fort was still strategically important to the city and its people and holds plenty of Halifax history behind its walls.

Go at noon to watch the changing of the guards and hear the blast of the cannons.

Along with barracks, period rooms and watching 78th Highlanders in their uniforms, there is also a museum to explore at the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site!

READ MORE: Don’t miss our list of what to do in Winnipeg !

Take a break from the hustle and bustle of the boardwalk and revel in the beauty of Halifax’s national historic Victorian Gardens.

Located on Spring Garden Road, the gardens are a favourite Halifax attraction by both locals and tourists.

Enclosed by an ornate wrought iron fence, the gardens span 16 acres in the middle of the city.

Wander over beautiful bridges, through hundreds of trees, past ponds and lush colourful flower beds.

The gardens are definitely one of the prettiest spots in downtown Halifax! Other attractions are just nearby as well, like the Halifax Central Library and the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site.

Would you like a little history to go along with your beer? If so, you can’t miss grabbing a pint at Alexander Keith’s Brewery in Halifax Nova Scotia!

Founded in 1820 by the Scottish Alexander Keith himself, it is one of the oldest breweries in North America.

Go on an unforgettable tour where you will be led along by a guide dressed in 1820’s attire and taught the history and brewing process of the company.

You will also witness musical storytelling and are guaranteed a Nova Scotian good time! Of course with plentiful amounts of ale.

Alexander Keith’s Brewery is definitely one of the top Halifax attractions!

Right on the waterfront, you will find the Halifax Seaport Farmers Market, North America’s longest-running farmer’s market.

Originally started as a meat and cattle market in 1750, it now hosts over 250 vendors and has a variety of crafts, flowers, seafood, meat and locally grown produce.

There are even celebrations held there, like the Canada Day Kitchen Day , and live music!

If you are looking for a cheap lunch when visiting Halifax, the Halifax Seaport Farmers Market is the place!

Grab some tasty local fare like a donair or a mouth-watering lobster roll while browsing the different vendors.

Hop on the longest-running saltwater ferry in North America and cross the beautiful Halifax harbour to Dartmouth.

There are two different ferry routes and at just $2.50 each way, and a ferry ride is the best way to see the harbour and it’s easy on the wallet.

If you want to explore further, ask for a free bus transfer and take the bus from Dartmouth to the historic Fisherman’s Cove .

When you decide to return, hop on a different ferry to complete a full loop of the harbour.

The public ferry is the best cheap way to see the Halifax waterfront!

Visit the website for more info on the Halifax Dartmouth Ferry schedules and prices.

Similar to New York’s famous Ellis Island , Pier 21 was once the ocean liner terminal where over one million immigrants passed through from 1928 to 1971.

A National Historic Site, it is now home to the Canadian Museum of Immigration .

Established in 1999, the museum was started to celebrate the 1.5 million immigrants who passed through its gates into Canada.

When you step inside the museum, you will go on a journey through different halls and experience what it was like to immigrate to Canada through Pier 21.

There are thousands of artifacts and stories to be seen and read at the Canadian Museum of Immigration.

There are also interactive exhibits for young and old to enjoy!

Skating at the Emera Oval is one of the most fun things to do when visiting Halifax during any season.

And best of all it’s entirely free!

The oval is an outdoor skating rink that is as large as 3 NHL hockey rinks.

In the summertime, rollerblading/skating and bike riding are popular activities.

In the winter the oval is frozen and you can go ice skating.

Free rentals include everything you would need like helmets, bikes, skates, scooters and even sleds!

All you have to bring is yourself and a government-issued ID to get in on all the fun! Visit the Halifax Oval website for more info about events and skate times.

Certainly one of the best things to see in Halifax is St. Paul’s Church.

Dating back to 1749, the church is the oldest building in Halifax. And it is the oldest Protestant church in Canada!

The church has a simple appearance, but it was actually modelled after the St. Peter’s Church in London.

When you tour the church you will notice some interesting details.

There is a metal shard embedded in one of the walls and if you look closely at one of the stained glass windows you will see a silhouette of a man, all remnants of the famous Halifax Explosion of 1917 .

It’s creepy yet definitely worth taking a look at when sightseeing in downtown Halifax.

READ MORE: 17 reasons to plan to visit Quebec City !

Want to enjoy a local outdoor event? Then grab a blanket or chair and head on down to Point Pleasant Park in downtown Halifax Nova Scotia.

Every day (except Monday) in the summer you can catch a live Shakespearean play or another popular classic.

Go for a hike in the park in the morning and then settle down for a matinee performance that will be sure to delight you.

Shakespeare by the Sea Theatre Society is a not-for-profit organization that started in 1994 with hopes of providing classic Shakespearean entertainment to audiences at Point Pleasant Park.

They are also committed to the development of Canadian theatre artists.

The plays are free, but they will gladly accept donations; it goes to a good cause!

Peggy’s Cove can’t be passed by when you’re just a short drive away.

One of the most visited destinations in Nova Scotia, the famous red and white lighthouse in Peggy’s Cove is still in use today by the Canadian Coast Guard.

Peggy’s Point Lighthouse, built in 1915, has become one of the most photographed lighthouses in the world!

Local folklore says Peggy’s Cove was named after a young shipwreck survivor who was adopted by a family who had settled there.

The little girl was too young to remember her name so the family decided to call her Peggy. She then became known as “Peggy of the Cove”.

The tiny fishing village of Peggy’s Cove is a must-see from the rustic houses and buildings that line the cove to the colourful fishing boats bobbing in the harbour.

And you can’t leave before capturing the iconic photo of Peggy’s Point Lighthouse!

Halifax Nova Scotia Travel Guide

Now that you know what to do in Halifax, we want to help you make your other plans as well by sharing the best accommodation and places to eat in the city.

Best Accommodation – Where to Stay in Halifax Nova Scotia

Depending on your travel style, taste and budget you can find any number of hostels, hotels and bed and breakfasts that offer a variety of amenities.

While not as cheap as travelling in a third world country, Halifax is one of the cheaper Canadian cities for accommodations.

If you are a budget-savvy traveller you will find a few traditional hostels in the area or you can even rent an empty dorm room at a local university.

If you don’t mind splurging on a nicer hotel, you will find many options right in the middle of downtown Halifax or one with an expansive harbour view.

With that said, these are a few of the best options you will have as you spend time in Halifax sightseeing and exploring the city.

Stay right in the middle of the hustle and bustle of the city in a historic old house!

HI-Halifax Heritage House Hostel is one of the best hostels to stay at because of its proximity to both the bus and train stations and the top things to do in Halifax are literally just a short walk down the road!

HI Halifax offers both private and dorm-style rooms. Dorm choices are for either male/female or mixed dorms with at most 6 beds.

The amenities offered are top-notch, with key points being a large well-equipped kitchen that is self-catered, free wifi, a tidy common area, coin-operated laundry and security lockers.

Rated high for location, value, security and cleanliness, HI-Halifax is the perfect hostel for the outgoing traveller looking to be close to all Halifax has to offer.

With rooms starting at USD$26 for a 6 person mixed/male/female dorms, you can expect great value considering all the amenities HI-Halifax has to offer.

An exceptional value for its location and amenities offered, the Atlantica Hotel Halifax is a great option for any couple seeking both comfort and accessibility during their stay in Halifax.

There is a variety of room selection, ranging from a superior king room or two double beds.

Amenities include an indoor swimming pool and hot tub, free wifi in rooms and common areas and a breakfast buffet.

And a bonus is that the hotel is pet-friendly so if you are travelling with your fur baby you can plan to stay here without worrying about sneaking him or her in!

There is a bar on-site where you can grab a drink before heading out for a night on the town.

When you stay at the Atlantica you are within walking distance to key attractions such as the Citadel, Halifax public gardens and the Museum of Natural History.

Or hop on a city bus or request a taxi or Uber ride to take you to nearby sites. With rates starting around USD$68 you won’t be able to beat the value for the location.

For those looking for a great value while exploring the best Halifax activities, the Barrington Hotel is everything you could need or want.

Rated high for its historic charm, location, comfort and friendly service there is very little more that you could ask for.

All rooms are clean and well furnished, with free WiFi, flat-screen tv, large ensuite bathroom and comfy beds.

There is also a swimming pool, spa, and fitness center for those who want to treat themselves.

If you want to feel like royalty during your stay in Halifax, the Prince George Hotel gives you the opportunity to splurge a little without breaking the bank.

Exceptionally rated for room comfort, cleanliness, amenities and location.

Situated near Halifax Harbor in the city centre, the top things to do in Halifax Nova Scotia are literally right outside your front door.

But if you’d like to stay at the hotel and relax, this is one of the best options you have.

With a hot tub and an indoor heated pool within the hotel, you can expect to set back and enjoy your stay.

And if you’d like to throw in a little exercise, there’s a fitness centre as well.

The Prince George Hotel features a great restaurant and bar.

There is also room service if you aren’t in the mood to go out or want to relax in your room watching television after a long day of Halifax sightseeing.

Rooms start around USD$130 and offer you the opportunity to book a deluxe queen room, king or double beds.

You can also upgrade to a king suite if you’re feeling particularly luxurious while staying in Nova Scotia’s capital city!

Best Restaurants in Halifax Nova Scotia

Halifax is full of delicious options for places to eat while you enjoy your stay in the city.

From casual quick bites to luxurious fine dining experiences you can expect a range of dining atmospheres.

Halifax is of course known for its delicious seafood.

And you can’t leave the city before trying a famous lobster roll or a tasty plateful of haddock fish and chips.

There is also another famous food stable in the city called a donair.

It’s possible to make Halifax a destination for the food alone!

Here are a few of our favourite places to eat in Halifax Nova Scotia.

You can’t say you’ve visited Halifax Nova Scotia without trying the city’s official snack, the Halifax donair!

King of Donairs was the first restaurant in Halifax to offer the delicacy in 1973 and it’s still located in the same building today. The sandwich closely resembles a gyro, but without the lamb and tzatziki sauce.

Instead, its shaved spit-roasted beef with a sweet yet garlicky sauce. Perfect hangover food!

One of the top-rated restaurants in Halifax Nova Scotia, Edna is sure to offer up tasty Canadian fare with great ambiance. Try some local seafood like the steamed mussels or seared scallops.

If you’re not in the mood for seafood, their pork chops come highly recommended! Pair the meal with a delicious cocktail or beer and your tastebuds will definitely be delighted.

Prices start at $10 for an appetizer to $38 for a large ribeye.

Stories Fine Dining has consistently rated the #1 restaurant in Halifax Nova Scotia for good reason!

With specialties such as ahi tuna and sea scallops, duck, and beef striploin you can embark on an excellent fine dining experience.

You will certainly be paying top dollar for what you get. But if you are looking for a fantastic dinner with exceptional service in a great atmosphere, you won’t be disappointed here.

Lindsay Harvey

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Halifax Travel Guide

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Best Times To Visit Halifax

The best time to visit Halifax is May through October. Summer and fall experience pleasant weather and usher in numerous festivals. However, these months also attract lots of tourists, so be prepared for steep hotel rates. If you're looking to avoid the crowds and the high prices, visit between November and February. Sure, you'll encounter icy winds (easily braved with warm layers), but you'll be granted access to Nova Scotia's ski slopes. March and April also see fewer visitors and lower prices, but the springtime rain can make sightseeing a muddy pursuit.

Weather in Halifax

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

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Coastline, Capstick, Cape Breton Highlands, Nova Scotia, Canada

Fall foliage or balmy beaches? Festive fiddles or high-brow plays? Tight budget or money to burn? Your decision about when to visit Nova Scotia depends on your tastes, finances and flexibility.

Summer is busy and pricey, but not as expensive or crowded as other parts of Canada. Winter is the cheapest period, but often cold and snowy. Spring and fall are the dark horse seasons with bargains to be found and still plenty to do. Here's a helpful planner to make sure you get the most out of your trip to Canada’s multi-flavored Maritime province.

High season: July and August

Best time for beaches and festivals

You won’t be alone in selecting summer as the ideal season for a sojourn to Nova Scotia. July and August welcome around 750,000 visitors. This is also when 80% of the annual festivals and events are crammed into two hyperactive months. Yet, while warm weather and long sunny days mean busier highways and slower travel times, this isn’t Paris. Nova Scotian crowds are rarely asphyxiating. Nevertheless, it’s wise to book ahead for accommodation and car rental (there’s been a province-wide shortage of cars since the pandemic) and set out early if you want to find a decent parking spot at the beach.

Nova Scotia is a province that proudly exhibits a fascinating potpourri of subcultures from the foot-tapping Scottish Ceilidhs of Cape Breton Island to the energetic fiddlers of the Acadian Shores. Not surprisingly, most of these festivities are stuffed into July and August. You can ricochet from one to the other but, for the more popular happenings, it’s best to pre-plan a selective itinerary.

Shoulder season: May, June, September and October

Best time for hiking and surfing

Fall has shorter opening times and some seasonal closures. But lower prices, less mosquitoes and a vivid array of autumnal foliage lure the budget-minded.

September to early October is prime hiking season in Kejimkujik National Park and the best time to visit Cape Breton Island when the area's roads are quieter, and the forests light up with color. It’s also when you’re almost certain to hear live music drifting temptingly out of pubs and bars, especially during the Celtic Colours Festival in October.

Spring can bring morning fog to coastal regions, particularly on the Eastern Shore, although the worst of the mist usually clears by late morning. Wildflowers start blooming in May when apple blossom lights up the Annapolis Valley. Average temperatures jump from 10ºC (50ºF) in late April to 20ºC (70ºF) in mid-June.

Read more: 9 stunning beaches in Nova Scotia

Low season: November to April

Best time for budget-seekers

In common with the rest of Canada, winter in Nova Scotia is characterized by snow, ice and frigid temperatures ranging from -15ºC to 5ºC (5ºC to 41ºF). Lacking the ski infrastructure of British Columbia and Alberta, and the top-drawer metro attractions of Ontario and Quebec, this isn’t the best time to visit. One upside of the season is the low pricing, which might swing the budget-minded. As darkness and cold envelop the countryside, driving can be fraught with challenges and few lodgings and attractions outside the big cities remain open.

Christmas festivals liven things up in late December and early January with Halifax offering a plethora of indoor attractions and warm pubs, but out-of-province visitors mainly stay away.

January is the cruelest month – and the coldest, with temperatures lingering in the sub-zeros as lakes freeze and snow piles up.

Not a popular month to visit unless you’re looking for deep snow and hard ice. The saving grace? It’s peak lobster season on the South Shore with gastronomic happenings sizzling everywhere from Lunenburg to Liverpool. Key events: South Shore Lobster Crawl , Nova Scotia Icewine Festival

Temperatures still struggle to climb above zero in the early part of the month, especially in Cape Breton Island . Spring break marks the first major annual holiday.

Mid-Lent, usually in March or April, is marked in the Acadian town of Chéticamp on Cape Breton Island with a festival of masks and disguises. Key events: Mi-Carême

Flowers bloom, temperatures rise and concerts and art shows arrive in the Annapolis Valley. An increasing number of summer attractions open after Victoria Day (the last Monday preceding May 25th). Key events: Annapolis Valley Apple Blossom Festival

Weather can be sunny but with the brisk bite of spring still lingering in the air. Tourist attractions continue to oil their creaky doors and breaching whales can often be seen in the Bay of Fundy. Key events: Privateer Days

A woman hiking the Skyline Trail, Cape Breton

Summer starts to heat up, days are long and festivals bring music and food to the streets. Outdoor activities hit full throttle. Hiking trails are open but beware of mosquitoes. Crowds are less frenzied in the earlier part of the month. Key events: Antigonish Highland Games , Halifax Jazz Festival , Stan Rogers Folk Festival

It’s the peak of the peak. Sun, song and a sultry summer mood descends over Nova Scotia. Beaches welcome sun-bathers, musicians of all ilk rosin their bows and you can pretty much hop from town to town taking in a full gamut of summer festivals. If you long to swim in the chilly Atlantic, this is the time to do it. Key events: Halifax Busker Festival , Festival Acadien , Digby Scallop Days

Tourists on the boardwalk, Lunenburg, Nova Scotia

The dying embers of the Atlantic hurricane season brush the Nova Scotian coast providing ideal conditions for surfing on the Eastern Shore. The cultural calendar revs up especially in Halifax which hosts an international film festival and a 10-day theatre festival focusing on offbeat and experimental plays and sketches. Key events: Atlantic International Film Festival , Canadian Deep Roots Festival

Fall creeps in. As the world turns from green to red, gold and brown, temperatures start to drop and nature-watchers enjoy a marked seasonal metamorphosis. Canadian Thanksgiving in early October inspires local warmth and hospitality while a handful of festivals wrap up the annual calendar. Key events: Halifax Pop Explosion , Celtic Colours

The wettest month with temperatures starting to drop and the festival season drawing to a close. This is not a particularly popular time to visit.

Snow starts to fall, and tourist numbers remain low. This is the least expensive month to visit. Christmas showcases local tree-lighting, religious events, and markets.

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25 Fun Things to do in Halifax You Won’t Want to Miss

By: Author Amanda OBrien

Posted on Last updated: 17/02/2024

I wasn’t expecting to find loads of fun things to do in Halifax. Initially, I actually had quite low expectations of Halifax in Canada. No idea why – figured it would be a gritty more industrial town. What a surprise.

halifax ns is vibrant, it is foodie, it is Instagram friendly and there are loads and loads of fun things to do in Halifax Nova Scotia.

25 Fun Things to do in Halifax

Table of Contents

1. Learn about the Titanic and the Halifax Explosion

2. walk the halifax waterfront, 3. hire a segway or bike to explore the waterfront and more, 4. get on a kayak, 5. halifax seaport farmers market, 6. take the harbour hopper tour, 7. go to the library, 8. halifax public gardens, 9. drink some tidal bay, 10. eat as much seafood as possible, 11. head up citadel national historic hill, 12. hang out in the north end, 13. visit hydrostone market , 14. have ice cream and a burrito at dee dee’s, 15. drink some rum, 16. visit what was the titanic morgue, 17. lie in a hammock, 18. visit dartmouth, 19. take advantage of the instagram opportunity on the halifax waterfront., 20. buy some pewter earrings, 21. cycle the rum runners trail, 22. day trip to lunenburg, 23. day trip to wolfville, 24. day trip to peggys cove, 25. take a taste tour, places to eat in halifax, 1. downtown halifax, 2. the north end, halifax boutique hotels, other places to stay in halifax:, how to get to halifax and how to get around, who paid for what in this post.

The Maritime Museum of The Atlantic was the most interesting thing I did during my time in Halifax. I am not normally a big museum person but this one was fascinating. The Maritime Museum of the Atlantic’s Titanic exhibition is fantastic and includes things like a deck chair.

I had never heard of the Halifax Explosion before visiting Canada Halifax. It is a rather shocking story but so interesting. I highly recommend spending some time at this fascinating – and quite photogenic – Halifax museum.

titanic poster at the maritime museum halifax nova scotia

The Halifax waterfront runs for 10 blocks from pier 21 at Halifax seaport to casino nova scotia . There are loads of things to do and see along the waterfront in Halifax.

Great restaurants, sculptures, hammocks, bike and segway hire, lots of shops and lots of photo opportunities. The waterfront is one of the top things to see in Halifax.

⇒ If you’re planning a trip to lovely Nova Scotia check out my Nova Scotia Itinerary – 6 Days

As the Halifax boardwalk is one of the longest downtown boardwalks in the world I think you could both walk AND take another form of transport to explore its full distance, Take a tour of Halifax City on a Segway or explore Halifax on a Segway at your own pace.

Check out I Heart Bicycles on the Waterfront for bike hire.

Another great way to see Halifax from the water is to hire a kayak. Kayak Halifax offers Halifax Harbour trips and trips to the nearby islands.

For something really special, Kayak Halifax offers a Glamping and Culinary adventure on Georges Island which includes a private tour, gourmet meal, local wine and a sunset bonfire with a great view. One of the top things to do Halifax has on offer.

I loved visiting Farmers Markets. There are usually opportunities to try lots of delicious and interesting things and they do tend to be very photogenic. Importantly, they are brilliant when traveling to get a real local view of the area you are visiting.

Most Farmers Markets have a requirement that any stallholders must have businesses within a certain number of kilometers of the market itself. This guarantees a genuinely local experience and the fabulous Halifax Farmers Market was no exception.

Norberts restaurant at Halifax Seaport Farmers Market

I am a big fan of a partially submerged tour! Particularly those duck-related ones where they ask everyone to quack. Everyone needs a good quack every now and then!

The amphibious tour in Nova Scotia is called the Harbour Hopper Halifax and is Atlantic Canada’s number one tour. It is well worth doing and good value for money.

halifax harbour hopper tour with tour guide about to head into the water

The Halifax Central Library has received many accolades since opening in 2014. The building is high tech and sustainable and it is a fantastic space. I found the Halifax Central Library great for photographs and exploring.

Also, one of the best coffees I had in Halifax was at the Pavia cafe on the top floor of the library. There are some nice views from up there as well.

Somewhat surprisingly the number one activity in Halifax on Trip Advisor is the Halifax Public Gardens . These lovely gardens are easily accessible in the downtown area. Halifax Public Gardens have been open to the public since 1875.

Tidal Bay is the first wine appellation for Nova Scotia. This white wine must be made from 100% Nova Scotia grapes. Tidal Bay is a fresh and crisp white wine. Wineries are left to develop their own blends within guidelines.

This means there are some interesting variations across the appellation and increases the chances of finding a Tidal Bay that works for you. I found this a very drinkable white wine.

There are some fantastic tidal bay varietals at the Wolfville Wineries in Nova Scotia – or do some tastings along with local cuisine at the brilliant Wolfville Farmers Market .

A great way to enjoy Tidal bay is at Wines on the Water Wednesdays. This cruise has a 5-course sampling menu with local wines as you sail the Halifax harbour aboard the Tall Ship Silva. The Wines on the Water cruises run on Wednesdays from 7-9 pm during the summer.

The seafood in Halifax – and Nova Scotia in general – is absolutely outstanding. When you’re thinking about what to do in Halifax Canada add eating as much seafood as possible to the top of the list.

The Five Fishermen and The Bicycle Thief are great Halifax classics for amazing seafood meals.

For a classic Nova Scotia lobster dinner head to The Press Gang . Bar Kismet is known for its sophisticated cocktails and a seafood-forward menu.

amazing seafood and Tidal Bay at Five Fishermen

The Halifax Citadel is one of the most visited national historic sites in Canada North America. The fort is easily explored on your own and good for photos.

And don’t miss the Old Town Clock on the way – any Halifax travel guide will tell you that the Old Town Clock is one of Halifax’s most recognisable sights.

cannon and building at the halifax citadel

The North End is the “trendy” (I do hate that word) area of Halifax. This is where you will find cool coffee shops, small brands, and cute boutiques.

There are also some very cute and colourful houses in the North End of Halifax. It is a great place to eat and shop and stroll around.

Canada_Novascotia_halifax-seven-bays-coffee

Further down this post, I have a full list of some great restaurants in the North End. For shopping, I made some purchases at Zekara and Sattva.

Canada_Novascotia_halifax-seven-bays-breakfast-burrito

The North End of Halifax is, well, literally north of the downtown area. A good street to start with Agricola and walk away from the downtown area.

colourful buildings in the north end of halifax canada

Completed in 1929, Hydrostone Market rose from the ashes of the Halifax Explosion and is an English-style garden suburb. It is a small area filled with cute boutiques and great places to eat.

The Hydrostone Market area in Halifax is bordered by Novalea Drive, Young Street, Isleville street and Duffus Street. Young Street is a great place to start exploring.

colourful houses in the north end of halifax

Just to clarify, this isn’t an actual market or marketplace (which I assumed huge traveller that I am) it is the name for a series of streets. It is definitely one to add to your things to see in Halifax Nova Scotia list.

I very much enjoyed Julien’s Bakery (who are also at the Halifax Farmers Market), The Ostrich Club has recently opened and for shopping head to the 14 Bells Fine Art Gallery and Lady Luck Boutique.

It is an unusual combination but it works. I just went with the ice cream when I visited and it was fantastic – creamy and so delicious with a wide array of flavours.

And Dee Dee offers vegan options. Dee Dee’s Halifax also has a kiosk at Pegg’s Cove during the summer. Peggy’s Cove is a must-do on your Nova Scotia Itinerary .

Rum is a big deal in Nova Scotia. At first, that seemed strange to me as it is a drink I associate with warmer climates. But then of course rum is also associated with sailors so it makes a lot of sense that it is a big deal in Nova Scotia.

The Halifax Distilling Company is on the waterfront and offers tours, rum tastings, has a restaurant – really it has it all happening for rum! The other place for rum is Ironworks Distillery.

They are based in Lunenburg (the Ironworks tour is one of the best things to do in Lunenburg ) but operate at Halifax Farmers Market on Saturdays complete with tastings.

The bodies of the victims of the Titanic were brought to Halifax. The wealthier victims went to Jon Snow’s funeral home on Argyll Street. This building is now the home of the fantastic Five Fishermen restaurant .

It is said that this building is haunted by the dead who have passed through it and that ghosts are often heard or seen.

Five fishermen restaurant exterior halifax nova scotia

I was told during my visit to the Five Fishermen that the ghosts were most common in the bathrooms but alas I just had some amazing seafood and local wine and no ghost sitings.

These orange hammocks are on the Halifax Waterfront. They are a nice place to rest but best of all they are very photogenic.

orange hammocks on the halifax waterfront

Just a 15-minute ferry ride from Halifax Harbour is Dartmouth Nova Scotia. It has a small walkable downtown with local cafes, restaurants, bars, galleries, and a lovely boardwalk.

The main street of Dartmouth is called Portland Street and there are lots of local businesses on it. Dartmouth Nova Scotia has lots of interesting places to eat – The Canteen, Battery Park, Il Trullo, the Wooden Monkey. Evan’s Fresh Seafood and U Pick Fish Seafood Shack for fish and chips.

The waterfront itself is very Instagram friendly, particularly in the right light. The Drunken Lampposts demand to be photographed. These are three bent light posts that were installed as a pop-up but were so popular they became a permanent fixture.

The red bicycle sculpture outside The Bicycle Thief restaurant is another good photo opportunity, as are the hammocks I mentioned above. When it comes to what to see in Halifax Nova Scotia, the waterfront contains many of them.

sculpture of multiple red bicycles on the halifax waterfront

Amos Pewter employs Artisans to make a range of Pewter products that are just lovely. I bought some pewter earrings at Amos Pewter when I visited and have worn them loads.

They have a big store on the waterfront, one at Peggy’s Cove and if I remember correctly some stuff at Halifax airport.

The Rum Runners Trai l from Halifax to Lunenburg is a 119 km multi-use path and includes lovely Mahone Bay. Cycle part or all of it – there are many access points.

The Rum Runners Trail is a great way to really experience Nova Scotia – and justify more seafood and Tidal Bay wine.

This gorgeous little town is only 4 square km or 48 blocks and has only 2,263 permanent residents. The Old Town of Lunenburg was named a UNESCO site in 1995.

It is Instagram heaven with colorful houses lining the streets, a picturesque harbour, great food, and super cute street signs.

⇒ Book a Day Trip to Lunenburg from Halifax

⇒ Read my post on 16 Things to do in Lunenburg and around Lunenburg

One of the centres of the Canadian wine industry is the lovely Annapolis Valley and the town of Wolfville Nova Scotia. This beautiful area contains wineries, cider houses, breweries, dairies and all sorts of delicious producers.

⇒ Read my post on Wolfville Wineries

⇒ Book a Wolfville day trip that focuses on Sparkling Wine and Cider here .

Peggy’s Cove is the home of Peggy’s Point Lighthouse – often referred to as the most famous lighthouse in all of Canada – and Canada has a lot of lighthouses! Peggy’s Point Lighthouse has been sending out its beacon since 1868. It is obviously a very popular tourist spot.

What surprised me was that given how popular it is the town of Peggy’s Cove and the lighthouse itself are still extremely beautiful – and not in a Venice style grown-up story book way.

⇒ Book your Day Trip to Peggy’s Cove from Halifax

As you may have picked up by now Halifax is a great foodie city. To get a broad feel of that scene check out Taste Halifax Food Tour . They offer an eating tour with 6-7 stops and a Happy Hour tour.

Head out of Halifax on the Half Day Annapolis Valley food tour . Or stay in Halifax with the popular Open Kitchen Food Tour is run by Local Tasting Tours.

Canada_Novascotia_halifax-colourful-houses

I enjoyed amazing meals at two Halifax classics. First up was Five Fishermen . The building in which this restaurant lives was used as a mortuary during the time of the Titanic.

What is now Fiver Fishermen Halifax was the morgue at the time of the Titanic disaster. So this was where the bodies from the disaster ended up.

Rumour has it that there are ghosts in the bathrooms of the Fiver Fishermen. Unfortunately, I did not see any. Fortunately, I had an amazing meal.

exterior of the bicycle thief restaurant

I chose a seafood platter as I am rather Atlantic seafood obsessed and it was amazing. The Fiver Fishermen is a lovely, atmospheric restaurant with a nice bar.

The service was friendly and fantastic. The dessert was great. Really everything was fantastic about the Five Fishermen.

The Bicycle Thief is on the waterfront and another local classic. I enjoyed a fantastic seafood pasta here. It is a little more old fashioned of an interior compared to the Five Fishermen but it does have outdoor dining. And fabulous food.

Pasta and tidal bay at The Bicycle Thief

For Spanish tapas/pintxos check out The Highwayman on Barrington Street. No reservations and a moody atmosphere make it perfect for pre-dinner drinks or a whole dinner of tapas.

For a classic Nova Scotia lobster dinner head to The Press Gang . If you’re after Mexican look no farther than Antojo Tacos and Tequilas . If you’re after some red meat, head to the Barrington Steakhouse and Bar .

One of Halifax’s top restaurants, The Kitchen Table is also the only place in Halifax offering a daily eight-course tasting menu. Bar Kismet is known for sophisticated cocktails and a seafood-forward menu.

For Japanese head to Kitsune Food Co – it only has 4 seats so you may need to make it takeaway but locals swear by its takeaway.

EDNA (Eat Drink Nourish Always) has received rave reviews since opening in 2013. Delicious food and a no-reservations policy means it is important to arrive early to avoid a major queue.

Little Oak Bar is a sleek wine bar with a chalkboard menu with tasty small plates. The Brooklyn Warehouse brought hipster dining to Halifax ten years ago and continues to offer a fantastic local focussed menu that changes with the seasons.

Best of all The Brooklyn Warehouse has a wine program that guarantees no more than a $15 mark up on bottles.

exterior of Lion and Bright restaurant Halifax

For amazing food as well as stunning interior design head to Agricola Street Brasserie . As much as done in house as possible including the bread. The current focus is on hand-made pasta and of course Atlantic seafood. For classic fish and chips try Willman’s.

Halifax is a little light on the ground when it comes to the full-on boutique hotel movement. But that’s ok as my gosh it is a town with a lot to offer in terms of food, wine, views and things to do. And there are quite a few very nice hotels with good thread counts available.

I stayed at the Delta Halifax (thanks for sponsoring my stay guys) on my first trip to Halifax. I had a lovely stay. The staff are super friendly and the location is great.

And the food! I must confess I was a little snobby going in when it came to the food at the Delta Halifax and boy did I get it wrong. I had a fantastic seafood dinner there (and thanks to George for the introduction to Digby scallops) and they have a great local wine list.

The breakfast at the Delta Halifax is also sensational – a choice of a la carte or a fantastic buffet breakfast menu.

⇒ Read reviews on TripAdvisor ⇒ Book Now

exterior of Agricola Street Brasserie Halifax

On my second visit to Halifax, I stayed at the wonderful Prince George Hotel . This is not exactly a boutique hotel – more a general high-end hotel.

But the Prince George Hotel Halifax is very stylish and the rooms were fantastic. It also has a lovely big lounge area that I hung out in and got some work done.

Canada_Novascotia_halifax-prince-george-hotel-bedroom

If you’re looking for somewhere romantic to stay in Halifax check out historic boutique Hotel the Halliburton

≥ Read Reviews of the Halliburton on Trip Advisor ⇒ Book Now

Or go 3-star boutique hotel with the Waverley Inn

≥ Read reviews of the Waverley Inn on Trip Advisor ⇒ Book Now

Or enjoy a nautical theme at your boutique hotel at the Seawatch B&B

≥ Read reviews of the Seawatch B&B on TripAdvisor ⇒ Book Now

Halifax is an international airport and the main airport for Atlantic Canada. It contains pre-clearance for US customs which is super helpful.

⇒ Flights to Halifax

You won’t need a car within Halifax itself as most of the key things to do are within walking distance. However, if you want to go beyond Halifax (which you totally should as there are loads of fab day trips) either look at a tour (see below) or hire a car.

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What's open and closed on Easter weekend in Halifax

Most shops are closed friday and sunday, transit will be operating on holiday hours.

A chocolate bunny beside a pile of chocolate eggs.

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Here's an overview of what's open and what's not across the Halifax region to help you plan your Easter weekend.

Halifax Transit buses will operate on holiday service hours on Friday.

There will be no ferry service on Friday.

The Halifax-Alderney ferry will operate on Saturday and offer holiday service on Sunday.

Buses and ferries will resume their regular schedules on Monday.

Holiday schedules, bus and ferry routes can be viewed here .

Sobeys: closed Friday and Sunday.

Atlantic Superstore: closed Friday and Sunday.

Gateway Meat Market: open throughout the long weekend.

Costco: closed Friday and Sunday.

Walmart: closed Friday and Sunday.

Luminate Co Wellness Market: open throughout the long weekend.

Local Source Market: Windsor Street location is open Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Agricola Street location is closed Friday. Both locations closed Monday (normal closing day).

Drugstores: some pharmacies are open but have limited hours. Check websites for details.

Liquor and beer

NSLC: closed Friday and Sunday. Delivery is unavailable all weekend. Check their website for information on local stores.

All major malls will be closed on Friday and Sunday.

Halifax Public Libraries

All branches are closed on Friday, Sunday and Monday.

Waste collection

Solid waste collection services will not operate on Friday.

Curbside collection regularly scheduled for Friday will take place on Saturday. Curbside collection services scheduled for Monday will not change.

The Otter Lake Waste Management Facility will be closed on Friday, but open on Saturday for regular business hours.

The Household Special Waste Depot in Bayers Lake will be closed on Saturday, March 30, but will be open on Saturday, April 6 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

On-street parking meter spaces are free on Friday and Monday.

311 contact centre

The 311 call centre will be closed on Friday. Urgent calls can still be made during the holidays.

CBC Nova Scotia

Add some “good” to your morning and evening.

Get the latest top stories from across Nova Scotia in your inbox every weekday.

IMAGES

The 20 Best Things to do in Halifax, Nova Scotia
5 Fun Things To Do in Halifax This Fall
8 Must See Tourist Attractions on a Halifax Weekend
9 Fun Things to Do in Halifax, Nova Scotia
7 Views of the Halifax Region You NEED to Experience
35+ Best Things to Do in Halifax: Budget-Friendly Travel Guide

COMMENTS

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A Perfect One to Three Day Halifax Itinerary. By Lora Pope Whether you're enjoying the vibrant neighborhoods, stuffing your face with lobster at amazing restaurants, or on a day trip to nearby islands and charming small towns, there are so many awesome things to do in Halifax. If you're planning a trip, this will help you map out a perfect ...
12 Best Things to Do in Halifax, Nova Scotia (+Map)
Halifax Citadel. 2. Halifax Public Gardens. 1. Waterfront Boardwalk. Map of Things to Do in Halifax. 12. Seaport Farmers' Market. Set along the city's waterfront is the Seaport Farmers' Market which is, remarkably, the oldest continually operating market of its kind in North America.
Halifax Waterfront
The Halifax Waterfront is one of the most-visited destinations in all of Nova Scotia. Stroll the nearly 4 kilometre boardwalk which spans from the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 to Casino Nova Scotia. Along the way explore museums, browse boutique shops, dine at waterfront restaurants, take a harbour tour, grab a ferry to Dartmouth, watch boats of all sizes come and go, take in a ...
The 12 BEST Things to Do in Halifax, Nova Scotia [2024]
1. Go on a Free Walking Tour of the City Along the Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk. 2. Spend Time in the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, Canada's Oldest and Largest Maritime Museum. 3. Visit the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site. 4. Stroll Through the Halifax Public Gardens.
Best Times to Visit Halifax
The best time to visit Halifax is May through October. Summer and fall experience pleasant weather and usher in numerous festivals. ... The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024. These fun ...
The best time to visit Nova Scotia
Low season: November to April. Best time for budget-seekers. In common with the rest of Canada, winter in Nova Scotia is characterized by snow, ice and frigid temperatures ranging from -15ºC to 5ºC (5ºC to 41ºF). Lacking the ski infrastructure of British Columbia and Alberta, and the top-drawer metro attractions of Ontario and Quebec, this ...
25 Fun Things to do in Halifax You Won't Want to Miss
I highly recommend spending some time at this fascinating - and quite photogenic - Halifax museum. Titanic poster at the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic Halifax. 2. Walk the Halifax waterfront. The Halifax waterfront runs for 10 blocks from pier 21 at Halifax seaport to casino nova scotia.
20 Must Visit Places In And Around Halifax
The highlight of the gallery in terms of local art is the Maud Lewis house, painted inside and out by the painter herself. Check out all the temporary and permanent exhibits, and finish your visit with a visit to the Pavia Gallery café. Address: 1723 Hollis Street. Phone: 902-424-5280.
15 of the Best Places for Fall Foliage in Nova Scotia
Another one of my favourite Halifax hiking trails, the look off across Fox Lake offers an epic vantage point of maple, oak, and elm trees. 4. Blue Mountain. Location: Hammonds Plains This unmarked trail offers the highest point of Halifax's Chebucto Peninsula, offering a panoramic view (and lots of trees) as far as the eye can see. 5. Admiral ...
5 Of The Best Rooftop Bars In Halifax, Nova Scotia To Visit ...
The Decks on Argyle. This multi-level rooftop complex offers incredible views of the Halifax Harbour and downtown core and serves as a great spot for watching the sunset on long summer days. It ...
What's open and closed on Easter weekend in Halifax
Groceries. Sobeys: closed Friday and Sunday. Atlantic Superstore: closed Friday and Sunday. Gateway Meat Market: open throughout the long weekend. Costco: closed Friday and Sunday. Walmart: closed ...
What's open, what's closed in Halifax for the Easter long weekend
Attractions Art Gallery of Nova Scotia: temporarily closed for maintenance Museum of Natural History: open Friday, Saturday, and Monday from 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Closed Sunday.

10 Things To Do in Halifax This October

1. Immerse yourself in full colour at an art festival

2. Catch an explosive NHL game at the Scotiabank Centre

3. Fill up on local goods at a festive fall market

4. Dare to be scared at the Bluenose Ghosts Festival

5. Catch peak fall foliage

6. Spook yourself into the Halloween spirit on a festive tour, walk, or paddle

7. Experience awe at a multi-sensory candlelit concert

8. Celebrate light, love, and culture at the Diwali Carnival

9. Warm up to fall with a festive drink

10. Geek out at Atlantic Canada's biggest Sci-Fi Convention

Welcome to Halifax

Privacy Overview

Why you should visit Halifax in October

Flights, tours, and hotels in Halifax

Halifax Pop Explosion

Halifax International Film Festival

Halifax’s top places to visit in October

Peggy’s Cove

The Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk

Point Pleasant Park

More articles on this topic

22 Fun Things to Do in Halifax, Nova Scotia

22 fun things to do in Halifax MAP

1. Tour the Halifax Citadel

2. Walk the Halifax Waterfront

3. Stroll through the Historic Properties

4. Snap a photo of the drunken lampposts

5. Wander around the Halifax Public Gardens

6. Take in a Halifax Mooseheads game at the Scotiabank Centre

7. Shop at a local farmers’ market

8. Check out the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic

9. Take the ferry to Dartmouth

10. Window shop in Dartmouth

11. Get on the water

12. Visit the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21

13. Look in the window at St. Paul’s Church

14. Stroll through Dalhousie University

15. Tour HMCS Sackville

16. Visit Fisherman’s Cove

17. Snap a photo at the Sidney Crosby sign in Cole Harbour

18. Wander around Peggys Cove

19. See the three churches in Mahone Bay

20. Window shop in Mahone Bay

21. Stroll around Lunenburg

22. Visit the Bluenose II in Lunenburg

Final thoughts: My top 7 tips for your visit to Halifax

Plan your Nova Scotia trip with these blog posts:

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12 Best Things to Do in Halifax, Nova Scotia

12. Seaport Farmers’ Market

11. Fairview Lawn Cemetery

10. Art Gallery of Nova Scotia

9. Discovery Centre

8. Point Pleasant Park

7. Halifax Harbour Ferry

6. Halifax Central Library

5. Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21

4. Maritime Museum of the Atlantic

3. Halifax Citadel

2. Halifax Public Gardens