Best Things To Do In Halifax Nova Scotia - 2023 Visitors Guide
Halifax Pier 21
Halifax Pier 21: Journey into Canada's Early Immigration Story Nestled in the heart of Halifax's waterfront, Pier 21 stands as a significant portal to Canada's rich immigration history. As the "Gateway to Canada," the pier holds a vital position in the hearts and memories of over one million immigrants and Canadian military personnel who passed through its doors between 1928 and 1971. Today, the location has transformed into a dynamic cultural center, inviting visitors from all over the world to explore the inspiring stories of hope and perseverance that permeate its walls. The Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 invites visitors not only to absorb the countless personal immigration stories but also to embark on an interactive journey through time. The museum's exhibits and multimedia presentations present a vivid account of the role that immigration has played in shaping Canadian values and the nation’s identity. In the words of former Prime Minister, the Rt. Hon. Joe Clark, Halifax Pier 21 is where "Canada met the world." The echoes of the past still resonate within this historic site, serving as a poignant reminder of the courage and vision of those who chose this land as their new home. This beacon of hope and opportunity continues to be an integral piece of Halifax’s identity, and Canada’s immigration story.
Maritime Museum Of The Atlantic
Explore the Rich Maritime History at the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic Delve into the fascinating world of maritime history and culture by visiting the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, located in the heart of Halifax, Nova Scotia. This enthralling museum boasts a vast collection of artifacts, exhibits, and stories preserving and sharing the rich maritime heritage of the Atlantic for all to enjoy. Step aboard the legendary CSS Acadia, a century-old ship that has been painstakingly restored, giving visitors a glimpse into life at sea during the early 1900s. The museum also provides an in-depth look at the infamous Titanic disaster and the significant role Halifax played in the aftermath of the event. Discover the historical significance of shipbuilding in the Atlantic region, which helped shape the maritime landscape and played a crucial role in the industry's growth. Learn about the courageous men and women working in shipyards, and the local communities built around these thriving industries. However, the Maritime Museum of The Atlantic is not just about the past. It strives to connect these historical narratives to the present and the future by engaging with contemporary issues in ocean conservation, research, and discovery. Whether you are a history buff, a maritime enthusiast, or simply seeking an enriching and immersive experience, the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic is a must-visit destination.
Halifax Citadel National Historic Site
Discover Canadian History at Halifax Citadel National Historic Site Step back in time and experience the rich heritage of Canada at the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site. This remarkable landmark located in the bustling seaport city of Halifax, Nova Scotia, is an enduring symbol of Canada's colonial past, military history, and a top-rated attraction for visitors of all ages. Standing proudly atop Citadel Hill since 1749, the star-shaped fortification holds more than 280 years of history, once serving as an essential defense base for what is now one of the oldest and most significant cities in North America. The Halifax Citadel has been restored to provide visitors with an authentic representation of the fort's Victorian era, complete with costumed interpreters, immersive exhibits, and hands-on experiences. Explore the daily lives of soldiers, tour the historic ramparts, and learn about the strategic significance of the site during wars, the Battle of the Atlantic, and the immigration to Canada through the large ships across the Atlantic Ocean in this iconic fortress. The Halifax Citadel National Historic Site serves as a living testament to Canada's rich cultural identity and invites visitors to delve into a piece of history that shaped the nation. Don't miss out on the opportunity to stroll back in time, where you'll be greeted with a traditional 'Halifax Welcome' by the citadel's guards, and revel in the stories of Canada's historic roots.
Art Gallery of Nova Scotia
Welcome to the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia: A Haven for Art Lovers and Culture Enthusiasts As Canada's Atlantic region thrives with its distinct culture and history, there's no better place to immerse in its colorful tapestry than the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia (AGNS). Located in the heart of Halifax, this prestigious institution proudly stands as the largest art museum in Atlantic Canada, showcasing over 17,000 works of art across its expansive galleries. What sets the AGNS apart is its dedication to preserving and promoting the creativity and heritage of Nova Scotia and the Atlantic region. Visitors can expect a rich and diverse collection ranging from contemporary works by Canadian and international artists to pieces rooted in the region's Indigenous, Acadian, and African Nova Scotian communities. Exhibitions rotate throughout the year, offering returning visitors fresh perspectives and novel insights. This dynamic gallery space aims to engage and inspire through their captivating displays, thought-provoking conversations, and unique programs for visitors of all ages. In addition to its visual delights, AGNS extends its commitment to fostering creativity with a range of educational programs, workshops, and special events. Discover your inner artist or simply relish in the enriching world of the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia—your gateway to experiencing the pulse of Atlantic Canada's cultural landscape.
Halifax Seaport Farmers Market
Situated in the picturesque coastal city of Halifax, Nova Scotia, the Halifax Seaport Farmers' Market holds a highly regarded position in both the city's history and its modern cultural landscape. As the oldest continuously operating farmers' market in North America (established in 1750), it has been providing the region with locally-grown produce, fresh seafood, and homemade goods for more than 270 years. From its humble beginnings to its contemporary status as an environmentally sustainable facility, the Halifax Seaport Farmers' Market has evolved from its traditional farmers' market roots. Today, it proudly showcases a diverse array of more than 250 vendors offering a wide variety of products, including fresh produce, meat, poultry, cheese, artisanal crafts, and even gourmet street food. Located on the beautiful Halifax waterfront, this bustling market has become a central community hub where shoppers and visitors gather to enjoy not only the high-quality local produce and goods but also the infectious atmosphere of camaraderie and creativity. Serving as a stage for local performers, the market fosters a memorable and enriching experience for all its visitors. The Halifax Seaport Farmers' Market is undoubtedly a must-see destination when visiting the city, offering a unique blend of history, community spirit, and an irresistible taste of Nova Scotia's vibrant food scene.
Halifax Historic Properties
Welcome to Halifax Historic Properties, a charming glimpse into the past nestled in the bustling harbour front of Halifax, Nova Scotia. This unique collection of heritage buildings, dating back to the 1700s and 1800s, stands as a testament to the city's rich maritime history and the importance of the port that helped shape Canada's cultural fabric. When you visit Halifax, these historic properties offer an extraordinary opportunity to step back in time while enjoying modern-day amenities and entertainment. Located along the picturesque waterfront, Halifax Historic Properties boast a vibrant mix of attractions, including boutique shops, galleries, and museums that showcase fine craftsmanship, innovative products, and timeless maritime influences. The district is also home to a variety of dining options, with quaint cafes, lively pubs, and fine dining establishments providing a gastronomic delight for every palate. Beyond the bricks and mortar, the Halifax Historic Properties come alive with cultural events, festive seasonal activities, and engaging performances that draw both visitors and residents to the scenic focal point of Halifax. Immerse yourself in the area's fascinating stories and connect with a community that cherishes its rich heritage. As you stroll through cobbled streets and admire the architectural beauty, you'll soon realize that Halifax Historic Properties is more than just a destination, it's an experience. So, come and discover the charm and history that only Halifax can offer!
Halifax Neptune Theatre
Halifax Neptune Theatre- A Timeless Hub for Maritime Theatre Lovers Since opening its doors to the public in 1963, the Halifax Neptune Theatre has cemented itself as a vital cultural institution in Nova Scotia, Canada. Nestled in the heart of downtown Halifax, the Neptune Theatre is the largest professional theatre company in Atlantic Canada, with a stellar reputation for producing world-class theatre experiences. Gracing the Neptune's stages on Argyle Street, a plethora of talented artists, producers, and playwrights have enchanted audiences with celebrated works, Canadian premieres, and original productions. From musical extravaganzas to impactful dramas, each captivating performance showcases the incredible creative spirit that permeates the region's performing arts community. Beyond the stage, the Neptune Theatre is also dedicated to nurturing the talents of aspiring performers through its Theatre School programs. Catering to children, teens, and adults, the school offers hands-on experiences, fostering skill development and the pursuit of artistic passions. As a premier destination for unforgettable theatre experiences, the Halifax Neptune Theatre beautifully encapsulates the magic and power of performance. It is a true testament to the thriving arts culture in Nova Scotia and an essential destination for theatre lovers in Canada's Maritime Provinces. Don't miss the chance to witness the sheer brilliance of Halifax Neptune Theatre the next time you visit the captivating coastal city of Halifax.
Halifax Museum of Natural History
Discover the Wonders of Nature at the Halifax Museum of Natural History Nestled in the heart of Halifax, Nova Scotia, the Museum of Natural History offers a captivating journey through the diverse realms of our planet's flora, fauna, and geological marvels. Established in 1868, this well-loved institution is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts, history buffs, and curious minds of all ages. At the Halifax Museum of Natural History, visitors can explore a wide variety of exhibits that showcase the region's rich natural heritage, from the Mi'kmaq People and their intricate porcupine quillwork to the ever-evolving landscapes of Nova Scotia's coastal environments. Marvel at the fascinating world of Nova Scotia's mammals and birds, step back in time with a visit to the prehistoric past, and gaze in awe at the famed full-scale replica of the Barosaurus dinosaur skeleton. The Museum also plays host to numerous traveling exhibitions, making each visit an opportunity to learn and be inspired by the wonders of our world. A visit to the Halifax Museum of Natural History promises to be an unforgettable experience for the entire family – one that will stoke the flames of curiosity and foster a lifelong appreciation for the natural world around us.
Halifax Explosion Memorial Bell Tower
Commemorating the resilience of the human spirit and the power of renewal, the Halifax Explosion Memorial Bell Tower stands tall in Fort Needham Memorial Park, Nova Scotia. This momentous structure pays homage to the lives lost and forever changed in the Halifax Explosion, a catastrophic event that remains etched in history. On the fateful morning of December 6, 1917, the French cargo ship SS Mont-Blanc collided with the Norwegian vessel SS Imo in the Narrows—a strait connecting Halifax Harbour to Bedford Basin. The resultant fire led to a massive explosion, laying waste to major parts of the city and claiming nearly 2,000 lives. Designed by renowned Canadian architect George Baird, the Memorial Bell Tower was unveiled on the 60th Anniversary of the Halifax Explosion in December 1977. Engraved with the names of those who perished in the disaster, the tower's ten bells, cast in France, toll solemnly each year on December 6. This poignant memorial serves as a lasting reminder of the importance of safety in times of war and peace, and stands as a tribute to the resilient spirit of the people of Halifax who rebuilt their shattered city into the thriving metropolis it is today.
Take A Ghost Tour Of Halifax
Are you brave enough to explore the spooky side of Halifax? Dive into the rich and often eerie history of the city, as you embark on an unforgettable ghost tour in the heart of one of Canada's oldest and most haunted cities. The lively cosmopolitan city of Halifax might be bustling with modern cafes, shops, and galleries, but its cobblestone streets and ancient graveyards hold chilling stories of unexplained apparitions, gruesome crimes, and restless souls wandering the dark corners of the town. Take a ghost tour of Halifax and prepare to experience spine-chilling encounters with the city's most notorious supernatural residents. Led by professional guides with deep knowledge of the city's sinister past, these tours offer spine-tingling stories of haunted buildings, eerie encounters, and unsolved mysteries that still linger in the fabric of Halifax's historic downtown core. Creep through narrow alleys, descend into haunted basements, and uncover chilling tales of murder and mayhem. Whether you are a history buff, a thrill-seeker, or simply curious to experience a different side of Halifax, this spooky adventure promises to keep your heart racing and your imagination running wild. This is one Halifax experience you won't want to miss! So, gather your courage and join the ghost tour that will change the way you view the city forever.