Halifax
Day Trips
Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Halifax's hidden gems and unique experiences!
Begin your day with a stroll along the bustling Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk, taking in the fresh sea breeze and vibrant atmosphere. Visit the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic to uncover the city’s rich nautical history, including fascinating exhibits about the Titanic and Halifax Explosion. Sip a locally roasted coffee at a nearby café while enjoying views of the harbor and historic ships.
Head to the nearby Halifax Seaport Farmers’ Market to explore local produce, crafts, and artisanal foods. Grab a fresh seafood lunch at one of the waterfront restaurants overlooking the harbor. Later, visit the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 to learn about the stories of newcomers who shaped Canada’s cultural mosaic.
Enjoy a relaxing sunset cruise departing from the waterfront, offering panoramic views of the city skyline and Atlantic Ocean. Return to the waterfront for dinner at a cozy bistro specializing in Nova Scotia’s famous lobster dishes. Finish the evening with a leisurely walk along the boardwalk, soaking in the lively atmosphere and street performances.
Start your day with a visit to the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia, home to a diverse collection of regional and international artworks. Explore the vibrant street art and murals scattered throughout downtown Halifax’s Historic Properties district. Stop by a local bakery for a freshly baked pastry and coffee to fuel your day.
Spend your afternoon browsing unique boutiques, bookstores, and craft shops along Spring Garden Road. Visit the Neptune Theatre for a guided tour to learn about Halifax’s theatrical heritage and upcoming performances. Enjoy a casual lunch at a nearby café known for its farm-to-table menu.
Attend a live music show at one of Halifax’s iconic venues, such as The Carleton or The Seahorse Tavern, renowned for showcasing local talent. Savor dinner at a trendy restaurant offering fusion cuisine that highlights Nova Scotia’s local ingredients. End your evening with a nightcap at a cozy pub while mingling with locals.
Begin with a peaceful walk in the Halifax Public Gardens, admiring the Victorian landscaping, fountains, and seasonal blooms. Take a guided tour to learn about the garden’s history and native plant species. Enjoy a light breakfast at a nearby café specializing in organic and locally sourced food.
Head to Point Pleasant Park to explore its extensive trails, towering trees, and scenic coastline views. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the park’s many secluded spots overlooking the Atlantic. Spend some time birdwatching and photographing the varied flora and fauna unique to this urban green space.
Return to the city center and dine at a restaurant with outdoor seating to enjoy the mild evening air. Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront to catch the sunset and watch the boats gently bob. Conclude your day by visiting a dessert shop offering classic Canadian treats like butter tarts or maple-flavored ice cream.
Visit the iconic Halifax Citadel National Historic Site to explore the star-shaped fort and learn about its military significance. Watch the ceremonial firing of the noon gun, a long-standing tradition in the city. Enjoy breakfast at a nearby café known for hearty Nova Scotian fare.
Take a short drive or ferry ride to visit Peggy’s Cove, one of Canada’s most famous lighthouses. Explore the rugged coastline, snap photos of the picturesque lighthouse perched on granite rocks, and wander through the quaint fishing village. Savor fresh seafood at a local eatery overlooking the ocean before heading back toward Halifax.
Back in Halifax, attend a storytelling event or maritime-themed performance that celebrates Nova Scotia’s seafaring legacy. Dine at a waterfront seafood restaurant featuring dishes made with freshly caught Atlantic fish and shellfish. End the evening with a peaceful harbor walk, reflecting on the day’s coastal adventures.
Start with a visit to a bustling local bakery to sample traditional Nova Scotian treats like blueberry grunt or oatcakes. Join a morning cooking class focused on regional seafood recipes, learning to prepare dishes such as lobster rolls or fish chowder. Enjoy your homemade meal paired with a freshly brewed local coffee.
Embark on a guided craft brewery tour, visiting some of Halifax’s best-known breweries to sample unique craft beers and learn about the brewing process. Stop for lunch at a gastropub offering innovative takes on classic Maritime comfort food. Spend some time browsing local food markets to pick up artisanal cheeses, preserves, and maple products.
Dine at a farm-to-table restaurant that highlights seasonal, locally sourced ingredients from Nova Scotia farms. Attend a tasting event or pairing dinner featuring local wines, beers, and spirits. Conclude your evening with a relaxed walk through downtown Halifax’s lively night scene, stopping for dessert or a nightcap.
Kick off your day with a kayaking tour around Halifax Harbour, spotting seals, seabirds, and historic waterfront landmarks from the water’s perspective. Learn basic paddling techniques from an experienced guide while enjoying the crisp morning air. Warm up afterward with a hearty breakfast at a café near the harbor.
Head to a nearby beach such as Lawrencetown Beach, famous for its consistent surf and beautiful sandy shores. Try surfing lessons tailored for beginners or simply enjoy walking along the coast collecting shells and watching the waves. Grab a casual lunch at a beachside café featuring fresh seafood and refreshing beverages.
Return to Halifax and unwind with a sunset sailboat cruise, soaking in the golden hour over the Atlantic Ocean. After docking, enjoy dinner at a seafood grill that specializes in locally caught oysters and scallops. End your day with a relaxing stroll through the historic downtown streets, illuminated by soft streetlights.
Visit the Nova Scotia Museum of Natural History to discover the region’s geological past, indigenous culture, and diverse wildlife through engaging exhibits. Afterward, explore the nearby Halifax Central Library, an architectural marvel with panoramic rooftop views of the city. Enjoy coffee and breakfast in the library’s café while planning the rest of your day.
Spend the afternoon at the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21, walking through interactive displays that tell the stories of immigrants who arrived in Canada through Halifax. Take a guided walking tour of the North End neighborhood to learn about its working-class roots and vibrant community. Grab a late lunch at an eclectic café popular with locals and artists.
Attend a lecture, film screening, or cultural event at one of Halifax’s community centers or theaters focused on Nova Scotia’s heritage. Have dinner at a historic tavern that dates back to the 18th century, savoring classic Maritime dishes. Enjoy a relaxed evening walk along the harborfront while reflecting on the day’s rich historical insights.
Set out early for a scenic drive along the Lighthouse Route, stopping first at Lawrencetown Beach to watch the sunrise and breathe in the salty air. Continue to the charming village of Chester, known for its picturesque harbor and welcoming shops. Start the day with breakfast at a local café offering homemade pastries and fresh coffee.
Explore the quaint shops, galleries, and artisan studios in Chester before enjoying a leisurely lunch at a waterfront restaurant with stunning views. Visit a nearby winery or cider house for a tasting session, learning about Nova Scotia’s burgeoning wine industry. Take a short hike around the nearby parks or shoreline trails to stretch your legs and enjoy nature.
Return to Halifax in the evening and dine at a cozy bistro specializing in regional flavors and local seafood. Consider attending a community event or live music performance to experience the local arts scene. End your day savoring a dessert made from Nova Scotia’s famous blueberries or apples.
Begin at the Discovery Centre, an interactive science museum perfect for engaging all ages with hands-on exhibits and live demonstrations. Enjoy a picnic breakfast outside in the adjacent park area surrounded by greenery. Take time to explore the museum’s special exhibits focused on marine biology and Nova Scotia’s natural environment.
Visit the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site for a family-friendly tour, including demonstrations by costumed interpreters and cannon firings. Stop for lunch at a family-friendly spot nearby offering classic Canadian fare like poutine and fish and chips. Spend the afternoon playing and relaxing at the Halifax Common, where playgrounds and open spaces offer plenty of fun.
Catch a family-friendly show or puppet performance at a local theater or community center. Dine at a casual restaurant with a kid-friendly menu featuring local ingredients and comfort food. Take a final evening stroll through the waterfront area to enjoy ice cream or a sweet treat before heading back to your accommodation.
Start with an early visit to the Halifax Seaport Farmers’ Market to meet local producers and sample fresh breads, cheeses, and berries. Participate in a morning cooking workshop focused on traditional Nova Scotian recipes like seafood chowder or blueberry grunt. Enjoy the fruits of your labor with a communal breakfast shared with fellow food enthusiasts.
Spend the afternoon exploring Halifax’s diverse neighborhoods, stopping at specialty food shops to sample local maple syrups, jams, and smoked meats. Visit a chocolatier or bakery for a sweet treat and learn about traditional baking methods unique to the region. Grab a light lunch at a deli known for its fresh, locally sourced sandwiches and soups.
Attend a guided food and drink pairing event that highlights Nova Scotia’s wines, craft beers, and artisanal spirits. Enjoy a multi-course dinner at a restaurant that emphasizes sustainable and seasonal ingredients from the local area. End your evening by wandering the waterfront or downtown streets, soaking in the lively ambiance and perhaps stopping for a nightcap.