Things To Do
in Queens
Queens, Canada is a coastal region on Nova Scotia's South Shore known for its fishing villages, scenic seaside trails, and a rich maritime heritage. The area centers around Queens County, with Liverpool as the cultural and commercial hub offering galleries, markets, and waterfront scenery. Visitors can savor fresh seafood, stroll historic streets, and enjoy welcoming communities that celebrate coastal living.
The landscape blends rugged shorelines with quiet inland forests, making it ideal for relaxed day trips and scenic coastal drives.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a sunrise stroll along the Liverpool waterfront boardwalk. Watch fishing boats return with fresh catch and greet local fishermen hauling lobster traps. The crisp salt air and seagull calls set the tone for an authentic coastal experience.
Explore the Queens County Museum housed in a historic courthouse building. Delve into exhibits showcasing maritime heritage and Miꞌkmaq artifacts. Enjoy a guided walking tour of the adjacent heritage district and colourful Victorian homes.
Dine at a waterfront seafood bistro where you can savour lobster rolls and scallops. Sip a glass of Nova Scotia wine while watching the harbor lights shimmer on the water. Cap off the night with live Celtic music at a cosy pub in town.
Head to Kejimkujik Seaside Adjunct for an early morning paddle. Glide past rugged granite shores and tidal pools teeming with marine life. Feel grounded by the serene beauty of this untouched coastal wilderness.
Set off on a guided hike along the park’s sandy trails overlooking the Bay of Fundy. Learn about coastal ecology, tidal patterns, and the traditional uses of seaside plants. Pause for a beach picnic with local cheeses, bread, and freshly picked berries.
Watch the sunset paint the sky in fiery hues over the Atlantic horizon. Listen to the rhythmic crash of waves as darkness settles in. Stargaze from the shore, spotting constellations far from city lights.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🧺Groceries (weekly for one) | $60-120 |
| 🚶Public transit fare (one-ride) | $2-4 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $100-180 |
| ☕Coffee at a café | $3-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming coastal towns with friendly communities
- Excellent seafood and fresh local produce
- Relaxed pace of travel and scenic landscapes
- Accessible day trips to other South Shore locales
- Limited public transportation within the county
- Seasonal business hours in off-peak periods
- Smaller nightlife scene compared to larger cities
- Some rural roads can be narrow and winding
Places to Visit in Queens
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden-hour light over the harbor with fishing boats, salt-air textures, and colorful waterfront buildings.
Scenic river bend with marsh grasses, reflections on calm mornings, and a quiet place for landscape shots.
Coastal headland offering dramatic sea views and lighthouse silhouettes against the sky.
Historic storefronts and restored façades create a charming streetscape for street photography.
Food in Queens
Queens Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh lobster meat lightly dressed and served in a buttered bun; best at harborfront seaside shacks along Liverpool’s waterfront.
Must-Try!
A hearty chowder loaded with fish, shellfish, potatoes, and cream; a staple at pubs and family-friendly eateries throughout the county.
Crispy pan-fried cakes made from salt cod, often served with a greens salad or coleslaw at local fish houses.
A warm, berry-filled dessert made with local blueberries; commonly found in seasonal cafés and farmers markets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market near the harbor offering fresh seafood, baked goods, preserves, and crafts with harbor views.
Seasonal market featuring local produce, honey, preserves, and ready-to-eat bites from regional vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be polite and patient; conversations in public are generally friendly and relaxed. Avoid loud, disruptive behavior in quiet areas.
Respect tidal areas and private property near beaches and shoreline trails.
Form lines and wait your turn in stores and markets; Nova Scotians value courtesy and punctuality.
Dispose of waste responsibly and respect wildlife and natural areas.
Safety
Tipping in Queens
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a standard tip is 15-20% of the bill before tax. For takeout, tipping is not required. Taxi and ride-share drivers typically receive 10-15%.
Credit/debit cards and contactless payments are widely accepted. Cash is useful for small markets and tip jars; Interac e-Transfer is common for bills and larger purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with frequent showers; blooming landscapes and growing markets begin to open. Layered clothing is ideal for variable weather.
Warm, comfortable temperatures with long days and vibrant waterfront activity. Bring sun protection and bug spray for outdoor time.
Crisp air, shifting leaves, and fewer crowds. Great for scenic drives, coastal hikes, and harvest-season treats.
Cold with occasional snow; some outdoor venues adjust hours. Cozy pubs, cafés, and museums provide warm shelter.
Queens at Night
Hiking in Queens
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Riverside trails offering tranquil woodland scenery and opportunities to spot wildlife.
Coastal loop with sea views, rocky shorelines, and photo-worthy vistas.
Accessible coastal path with waves, seabirds, and soft dune landscapes.
Airports
How to reach Queens by plane.
Major gateway to Nova Scotia, about 180-210 km from Queens County; frequent flights to national and international destinations.
Regional airport offering limited international connections; alternative arrival point for longer trips; longer drive to Queens County.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families live in the area, drawn by safe neighborhoods, parks, and schools.
A sizable portion of residents are retirees seeking a quieter coastal lifestyle.
Cottages and summer homes bring a rotating population during warmer months.
French-speaking residents and visitors contribute to cultural events and bilingual services in some areas.
Indigenous presence and cultural heritage reflected in some local events and discussions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A common sport across the region with community rinks and local leagues.
Local clubs and pickup games during warmer months; great for families.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Queens.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants offer vegetarian options such as veggie soups, salads, and grain bowls; request seasonal vegetable dishes and sides, and consider seafood-free days by choosing cheese, legumes, and grain-based plates.