Things to do in Halifax
Discover the best attractions and experiences Halifax has to offer
Historic Monuments
Halifax’s skyline and streets are rich with fortresses, government houses, and enduring landmarks that reveal the city’s maritime past.
Halifax Citadel National Historic Site
A star-shaped fortress atop the hill offering sweeping harbour views and vivid reenactments of military life.
Province House National Historic Site
The provincial legislature’s historic seat, showcasing colonial architecture and political history.
Old Town Clock
Iconic 19th-century clock tower on the Grand Parade, a visible symbol of Halifax's heritage.
Museums
Dive into maritime lore, immigration stories, and hands-on science at Halifax’s standout museums.
Maritime Museum of the Atlantic
Exhibits explore Halifax’s seafaring history, shipwrecks, and the city’s naval connections.
Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21
Stories of the millions who arrived in Canada through Pier 21, brought to life with interactive displays.
Discovery Centre
A hands-on science museum with engaging exhibits for visitors of all ages.
Religious Monuments
Halifax’s sacred spaces showcase architectural grandeur and quiet contemplation amid the port city bustle.
St. Paul's Church (Halifax)
Historic Anglican church known for its Gothic Revival architecture in the downtown core.
Cathedral Basilica of Saint Mary
A magnificent Catholic cathedral overlooking the city with intricate stained glass.
National & Theme Parks
Green spaces and green-lit promenades line Halifax’s waterfront and urban core, ideal for relaxed exploration.
Point Pleasant Park
A expansive waterfront park with forest trails, sea views, and historic fortifications.
Halifax Public Gardens
A Victorian-era urban garden in the city center, perfect for a peaceful stroll.
Halifax Common
One of North America’s oldest public greenspaces, ideal for picnics and casual strolls.
Neighborhoods
Explore the city’s diverse districts, each with its own character, history, and vibe.
Downtown Halifax
The urban heart with historic architecture, waterfront vibes, and buzzing shops.
North End Halifax
A vibrant, diverse area known for local eateries and arts spaces.
Hydrostone
A Historic District featuring distinctive 1930s terraced houses and planned neighborhood design.
Free Things to Do
You can enjoy Halifax without spending a dime—perfect for laid-back days by the water and in parks.
Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk
Stroll along the harbor past ships, markets, and lively views.
Halifax Public Gardens
Wander the sunlit paths of a classic Victorian garden—free to explore.
Historic Properties waterfront stroll
Explore the historic waterfront district with heritage buildings and scenic views.
Gastronomy
Halifax serves up seafood-centric bites, bustling markets, and hearty maritime fare.
Halifax Seaport Market
A lively market offering local seafood, produce, and artisanal foods.
Five Fishermen
Renowned seafood restaurant known for its creative takes on classic Atlantic dishes.
Halifax Donair
Iconic local street food, beloved for its flavorful, spiced meat and toppings.
Nightlife
Live music, crafty pubs, and waterfront venues light up Halifax after dark.
Seahorse Tavern
A legendary live music venue with a fleet of local bands and big-name acts.
The Carleton
Historic venue known for intimate concerts and great acoustics.
Lower Deck
Quaint waterfront bar with casual vibes and local performances.
Entertainment
From stage theatre to campus arts, Halifax offers a steady lineup of performances.
Neptune Theatre
Mainstage venue hosting plays, musicals, and touring productions.
Bus Stop Theatre
Independent and experimental performances in a compact, intimate setting.
Dalhousie Arts Centre
Campus performing arts complex with concerts, dance, and theatre productions.
Sports
Cheer on Halifax’s home teams across hockey, soccer, and more.
Halifax Mooseheads
Quebec Major Junior Hockey League team with high-octane games and family-friendly fun.
HFX Wanderers FC
Halifax-based professional soccer team competing in the Canadian Premier League.
Dalhousie Tigers
University sports teams offering collegiate matchups across multiple sports.
Off the Track
Step off the beaten path to discover lighthouses, rugged beaches, and coastal trails nearby.
Peggy's Cove Lighthouse
Iconic lighthouse perched above rugged granite shores with dramatic coastal scenery.
Lawrencetown Beach
Popular surfing and coastal beach with expansive shores and crashing waves.
Shubenacadie Canal
Historic waterway offering scenic trails and a glimpse of Nova Scotia’s canal era.