Halifax, situated near the southeastern edge of Canada, is the largest city in the Atlantic region and a gem of the country’s eastern coast. Known as a thriving port town since its time as the seat of government for the Nova Scotia colony, it attracts many tourists. As the cultural and economic hub of Canada’s East Coast, Halifax offers plenty of sightseeing opportunities! This time, we’re introducing six must-visit tourist spots in the picturesque port town of Halifax.
1. Waterfront
The "Waterfront" in the port town of Halifax is a tourist area that serves as the face of the city. Around Halifax’s port, which has been greatly influenced by British culture, you’ll find rows of British-style pubs. Some even include breweries, so be sure to enjoy local craft beer with the beautiful Halifax harbor in the background.
There are also many restaurants offering freshly caught seafood, always bustling with both tourists and locals. A visitor information center is available nearby, making it convenient for gathering information. Additionally, the "Pier 21 Immigration Museum," a designated national historic site, is a must-visit attraction in the area.
If the weather is good, a harbor cruise is highly recommended. Light tours around the port aboard hovercraft are also available. The Waterfront is home to many charming buildings, and the view of the harbor from the boat is breathtaking.
Name: Halifax Waterfront
Address: Lower Water St, Halifax, NS B3H 4P8, Canada
Official/Related Website: https://www.novascotia.com/explore/top-25/halifax-waterfront
2. Halifax Citadel National Historic Site
The "Halifax Citadel," towering behind the harbor, is a star-shaped fortress with eight bastions. Halifax and Hakodate, home to Goryokaku (another star-shaped fortress), are sister cities due to this shared architectural feature. The Halifax Citadel was built by the British in the 18th century and gradually reinforced to its present form.
On the way to the entrance of the Citadel, you’ll find a clock tower built in 1803. From the top of the fortress, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city. Visitors can also witness a ceremonial changing of the guard and listen to bagpipe performances by bands dressed in Celtic attire. If you're lucky, you might even get to take photos with the guards.
The buildings within the fortress have been turned into museums displaying military-related exhibits.
Name: Halifax Citadel National Historic Site
Address: 5425 Sackville St, Halifax, NS B3J 3Y3, Canada
Official/Related Website: https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/lhn-nhs/ns/halifax
3. Fisherman's Cove
Fisherman's Cove, which means "Fisherman's Inlet," is located about 20 minutes by car from downtown Halifax. This small peninsula-like area is home to shops selling Halifax folk crafts, art galleries, and restaurants, attracting tourists from near and far.
Fisherman's Cove is also popular as a gourmet spot where you can enjoy freshly caught seafood. The lobster, Atlantic salmon, and the British specialty fish and chips are particularly renowned here. You’ll be amazed by the massive lobsters. Don’t miss the stunning sunsets either!
Name: Fisherman's Cove
Address: 4 Government Wharf Rd, Eastern Passage, NS B3G 1M7, Canada
Official/Related Website URL: http://fishermanscove.ns.ca/
4. Maritime Museum of the Atlantic
Halifax is historically tied to two major disasters. One is the famous "Titanic Incident." In 1912, the Titanic, which was the largest passenger ship in the world at the time, sank in the Atlantic Ocean while traveling from the UK to New York. Halifax, being the closest port city to the sinking site, dispatched ships to rescue passengers.
The other major disaster is the "Halifax Explosion." In 1917, a ship carrying explosives collided and exploded in Halifax, setting much of the town on fire.
The Maritime Museum of the Atlantic features exhibits, artifacts, and photographs related to these two major disasters. It’s a must-visit spot to learn about Halifax's history. The museum is located right by the waterfront.
Name: Maritime Museum of the Atlantic
Address: 1675 Lower Water St, Halifax, NS B3J 1S3, Canada
Official/Related Website URL: http://maritimemuseum.novascotia.ca/
5. Peggys Cove
About 40 minutes by car from downtown Halifax lies the small fishing village of "Peggys Cove." Despite having a population of only around 60, it served as a filming location for the Japanese movie Hanamizuki, released in 2010.
The village's landmark is its white lighthouse standing atop rocky cliffs. There’s a spot on the coast where you can get a panoramic view of the lighthouse and the sea, and the sunsets from here are especially highly praised. Although it’s a small village, there are plenty of attractions, including gift shops, accommodations, and art galleries. It’s a bit away from downtown Halifax, but if you have the time, it’s well worth a visit.
Name: Peggys Cove
Address: Peggys Point Rd, Peggys Cove, NS B3Z 3S1, Canada
Official/Related Website URL: https://discoverhalifaxns.com/everything-you-need-to-know-about-peggys-cove/
6. Halifax Public Gardens
The "Halifax Public Gardens" opened in 1836 and has long been a place of relaxation for Halifax residents.
Inside the park, there is a café where visitors can be seen enjoying coffee or lunch. With its compact size, taking less than 30 minutes to stroll through, it’s an excellent spot for a break during Halifax sightseeing or a morning walk.
Name: Halifax Public Gardens
Address: 5771 Spring Garden Road and South Park St, Halifax, NS B3T 2M3, Canada
Official/Related Website URL: http://www.halifaxpublicgardens.ca/
Summary
Halifax is full of charm with its historical buildings and national landmarks. In this picturesque port town, you can enjoy not only its tourist attractions but also fresh seafood straight from the harbor, breathtaking sunsets, and nightscapes. By plane, Halifax is about 2.5 hours from Toronto and 1.5 hours from Montreal. With buses, trains, and ferries also available, Halifax is a must-consider destination when visiting Eastern Canada.