Halifax, Nova Scotia Sightseeing

Halifax, Nova Scotia

Halifax is located on one of the largest and deepest ice-free natural harbours in the world. This made Halifax one of the most important commercial and military ports in Canada. As a tourist, there are lots of things to see and do in Halifax. Here are some of the sights we saw during our stay. All are within walking distance downtown except for Peggys Cove Lighthouse.

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Walk the Halifax waterfront

With a four-kilometer (2.5 miles) boardwalk, there are boundless sightseening opportunities in Halifax. Other than views, there is shopping, museums, restaurants, tours, playgrounds, and public art.

Maritime Museum of the Atlantic

Located on the waterfront, this is the best place to learn about Nova Scotias rich maritime heritage. Learn about small craft and boatbuilding to World War convoy. A section also covers the Titanic while another covers the 1917 Halifax Harbour Explosion.

Halifax Citadel National Historic Site

This star-shaped fortress overlooks the city and once protected Halifax from attack by land and sea. At 12pm is the daily cannon fire, known locally as the noon gun. This ritual has signaled the noon hour every day since 1857.

Halifax Public Gardens

This is a 16-acre Victorian-era public garden formally established in 1867. It features carefully manicured lawns, colourful floral displays, and mature trees, along with a historic bandstand, duck pond, fountains, and a system of winding paths through it all.

Halifax Central Library

The Halifax Central Library is an architecturally stunning (and award-winning) building on Spring Garden Road. Climb the Escheresque staircase to the fifth floor, cantilevered dramatically out over the front plaza.

Ferry to Dartmouth

There are several harbour tours available, but the easiest way onto the water is the Alderney Ferry, which runs between the Halifax waterfront and downtown Dartmouth. The ferry service is the oldest saltwater ferry in North America. Once you are across the harbor, you can explore the shops and public art around downtown Dartmouth.

Peggys Cove

This lighthouse and rocky shoreline is the most popular excursion just outside of town. It is a bit of nature and quite accessible for anyone.