The BEST Things to Do in Halifax, Nova Scotia

Perched on the edge of the Atlantic with salty sea breezes and a whole lot of character, Halifax is the kind of city that blends history, culture, and coastal charm in all the right ways. Whether you’re strolling along the vibrant waterfront boardwalk, diving into the city’s rich maritime past, or digging into fresh lobster rolls (or a mouth-watering donair) with a view, Halifax has something for every type of explorer. From lively festivals and iconic landmarks to hidden gems and scenic day trips, here’s your guide to the very best things to do in Nova Scotia’s capital!

Explore the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site

With so many historical sites across Canada, there must be a reason why this is the most visited. This star-shaped Citadel is strategically positioned atop Halifax’s Citadel Hill, which offers beautiful views of Halifax. Construction began in 1749, although the current fort was built between 1818 to 1861. Guests can walk around at their own pace or take one of the awesome guided tours, which explain the fort’s shape and history. While the exhibits are not always open, the grounds inside are open year-round. During the busy season, you can even sign up to fire an old-fashioned gun.

Stroll the Halifax Waterfront 

When I think of Halifax, the waterfront immediately comes to mind. Not only is it very scenic, but it’s also in the heart of downtown Halifax, walking distance to many of the top things to do in the city. The Harbourwalk is a four-kilometre boardwalk that snakes its way along the waterfront.

Along the wharf, you’ll also find the information centre, a variety of beautiful boats, whale-watching tours, and the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, which we’ll talk about below. There’s also some cool artwork along the way, and you’ll eventually end at the Farmers’ Market and the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21, which is one of the top things to do in Halifax.

If you’re hungry or thirsty, don’t worry! You’ll find dozens of restaurants and pubs along the waterfront.

Visit the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic

For those interested in Maritime artifacts, history, the RMS Titanic, and the Halifax explosion, this is the place to go. Part of the museum used to be a chandlery, which is where all the gear needed to outfit a vessel was sold. You can still smell the charred ropes, cured to protect them from the saltwater. There’s also a cool display about the Titanic, which sank fairly close to Halifax. You’ll also find a variety of extremely detailed boat models. When we were there, we even got to try our hand at Morse code. Outside, you’ll find Canada’s official Naval Memorial, the HMCS Sackville, docked outside and staffed by the Canadian Navy.

Explore the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21

Between 1928 and 1971, more than one million immigrants entered Canada at Pier 21. Their stories and the history of it all are displayed beautifully at the museum, a heartwarming place to experience one of the things that have made Canada what it is today. You’ll find photos, artifacts, and first-person accounts of what it was like to arrive in Canada and what their first day was like. For Karla, it was an emotional place, as she connected with the stories of people moving to a new country.

Take a Tour at Alexander Keith’s Nova Scotia Brewery

Also located not too far from the Halifax waterfront is Alexander Keith’s Brewery. Founded in 1820 by the then-Halifax mayor Alexander Keith, this brewery is one of the oldest in North America. While production is now done from a larger site, Alexander Keith’s Brewery tour is truly one of a kind, which is why it’s now one of the most popular Halifax tourist attractions. Guided by actors in period costumes, guests are taken throughout the historic property while learning about the company’s history, the brewing process, and a delicious beer tasting. In true East Coast fashion, the beer tasting is done in the basement, combined with live musical entertainment and stories. We had a blast here.

Georges Island National Historic Site

If you’re looking for a super cool urban adventure combined with history and a boat trip, we highly recommend a visit to Georges Island National Historic Site. Just a quick ferry ride from the waterfront (often with a fun loop around the island included), you arrive on a glacial drumlin with over 300 years of layered stories—from Mi’kmaq gatherings (who called the harbour Kjipuktuk or “Great Harbour”) to its strategic military role as Fort Charlotte defending Halifax Harbour.

Wander the ancient stone walls and plunge into the eerie underground tunnel network once used to store gunpowder and house soldiers—and yes, even prisoners during the Acadian deportation! Pausing at one of the iconic Parks Canada red chairs with sweeping views of Halifax’s skyline and maritime bustle is the cherry on top.

Take a Walk in the Halifax Public Gardens

If you’re looking for a scenic place to go for a relaxing stroll, you may want to check out the 16-acre Halifax Public Gardens. Established in 1867 in celebration of Canada’s Confederation, these gardens are often considered to be the finest Victorian city gardens in all of North America. Entering through a wrought iron gate, you’ll then find many pathways, water fountains, 140 different species of trees, vibrant flowers, and a variety of statues. They’re also popular with locals, home to families taking a stroll, live music, tai chi practitioners, and people playing board games.

Halifax Harbour Ferry

Hop aboard the Halifax-Dartmouth public ferry for one of the most affordable and scenic adventures in the city! As one of the oldest saltwater ferries in North America, this quick 10-minute ride offers stunning views of the Halifax skyline, bustling harbour, and historic waterfront—all for the price of a bus fare. Whether you’re commuting like a local or just along for the ride, it’s a relaxing way to experience Halifax from the water. In addition, it gives you the chance to explore some of the cool shops, restaurants, and cafes in Dartmouth!

Step aboard the HMCS Sackville

Halifax’s HMCS Sackville is a must-do mix of history, nostalgia, and maritime charm. As the last surviving Flower‑class corvette, she’s a floating time capsule from WWII and Canada’s official Naval Memorial. Docked at Sackville Landing beside the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, she welcomes visitors each summer with self-guided audio tours or summer guided walks through its authentic wartime spaces—from the gun deck to the cramped engine rooms and cozy captain’s cabin. Imagine the thrill of hearing stories about the Battle of the Atlantic—like the time Sackville dramatically disabled two German U‑boats in a single day. In addition, this amazing attraction is free of charge. However, a $5-$10 donation is suggested.

Art Gallery of Nova Scotia

The Art Gallery of Nova Scotia is a delightfully enriching stop in Halifax. Housed in charming heritage buildings right downtown, it’s the largest art museum in Atlantic Canada, showcasing a breathtaking collection of over 18,000 works. From stirring pieces by celebrated Canadian artists (think Alex Colville, Kent Monkman and Emily Carr) to its irresistible folk‑art finds—especially the lovingly restored Maud Lewis House and gallery, the world’s largest public collection of her cheerful painted works—the gallery offers a visual feast that blends local character with national and global art. With rotating exhibitions, educational programs, a cozy café, and “free Thursday” evenings, it’s accessible, dynamic, and welcoming to all.

Ride a Bike around Halifax

If walking is just too much, you might want to consider renting a bike and pedalling around the maritime city. Located next to the Halifax harbour is a bike rental shop called I Heart Bikes. They’ll get you set up so you can ride along the harbour or ride into the city. Plus, you can save 10% with the Must Do Canada Saver Card.

Attend the Great Outdoor Comedy Festival

Get ready to experience summer’s biggest laugh-out-loud party at the Great Outdoors Comedy Festival in Halifax! Set in the stunning Garrison Grounds on Citadel Hill overlooking the harbour, this show always brings in a killer line-up such as Matt Rife, Bert Kreischer, and Bill Burr.

It’s a true East Coast summer festival: picnic vibes, VIP-table service, food trucks, craft cocktails, and that warm ocean breeze that makes outdoor comedy feel extra special. So bring your crew, snag a GA+ or VIP table, and get ready for a weekend of great laughs, amazing scenery, and festival vibes that only Halifax can deliver.

Witness the Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo

The Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo is a dazzling splash of Nova Scotian culture and showmanship that kicks off summer in Halifax with flair! Held at the Scotiabank Centre each June–July, it blends stirring military pageantry—bagpipes, pipes and drums, honour guards—with vibrant civilian acts like dancers, acrobats, trampoline troupes, and international marching bands, all choreographed in a fast-paced, theatre‑in‑the‑round format. Since its debut in 1979, it has grown into the world’s largest annual indoor tattoo, featuring more than 2,000 performers from around the globe and drawing crowds of roughly 60,000 each year.

Visit the Africville Museum

Visiting the Africville Museum is a deeply moving and enlightening experience that’s as fun as it is essential for understanding Halifax’s heart and history. Situated in a faithful replica of the beloved Seaview United Baptist Church, this UNESCO‑designated “Place of History & Memory” commemorates a once-thriving Black community that was uprooted in the 1960s. Inside, interactive audio‑visual kiosks, photographs, cherished artifacts—from the old church pulpit to children’s marbles—and the voices of former residents bring the story of resilience, faith, and injustice vividly to life.

It’s accessible, inclusive (Rainbow Registered!), and thoughtful—the perfect blend of emotional resonance, education, and reflection, making it a top-tier stop for travellers seeking a heartfelt connection to Halifax’s diverse cultural tapestry.

Expand Your Mind at the Discovery Centre

The Discovery Centre is a must-visit stop in Halifax, especially for curious travellers and families with a sense of wonder! Housed in an award‑winning, 40,000 sq ft waterfront building, it packs five floors of hands‑on STEAM fun: from flight simulators and a bubbling ocean gallery to energy exhibits and a dedicated kids’ floor with giant bubbles and pretend vet clinics. Don’t miss the 65‑seat Dome Theatre, where you can drift through galaxies in live star shows or immersive films. Plus, rotating special exhibits—like roaring animatronic dinosaurs—guarantee something new with every visit. Whether you’re launching rockets, building hovercrafts, or simply losing yourself in a giant bubble chamber, the Discovery Centre is a bright spark in any Halifax itinerary.

Visit St. Mary’s Cathedral Basilica

St. Mary’s Cathedral Basilica is a stunning stop in Halifax, where history, art, faith, and architecture all converge under one soaring granite spire! Built in the Gothic‑Revival style and consecrated in 1899, its 189‑foot granite tower is the tallest free‑standing granite spire in North America, instantly recognizable on Spring Garden Road. Inside, the décor is equally breathtaking: dazzling Munich‑style stained‑glass windows, a majestic Casavant Frères pipe organ, and century‑old murals that are currently being lovingly restored after surviving the Halifax Explosion of 1917.

Dive into its rich storytelling through guided or self‑guided tours—discover relics from Pope John Paul II’s 1984 visit, hear the sonorous bells and organ music during Mass, or simply sit in awe as sunlight filters through the glass into the vaulted, ship‑like ceiling. Whether you’re an architecture buff, history lover, music fan, or soul-seeker seeking a peaceful moment, add St. Mary’s to your Halifax bucket list.

Visit McNabs Island

McNabs Island is a hidden gem just a short boat ride from Halifax, offering an immersive blend of history, nature, and adventure. As the largest island in Halifax Harbour, it boasts over 22 km of hiking trails that wind through lush forests, along sandy beaches, and past Fort McNab National Historic Site. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy birdwatching, with over 200 species recorded, while history buffs can explore remnants of the island’s military past, including old batteries and barracks. Accessible only by boat, McNabs Island provides a peaceful retreat from the city, making it a must-visit destination for travellers seeking a unique and enriching experience.

Take a Photo Tour in Halifax

If you’re looking to get some amazing photos of Halifax and the surrounding areas but aren’t sure where to go and how to get those “award-winning” shots, you may want to take a photo tour with Picture Perfect Tours. Georgie will pick you up and drive you to areas of interest, such as Peggy’s Cove, while showing you how to get a shot, or many shots, that you’re proud of. You’ll also learn some history about the areas you visit and, of course, lots of photography tips!

Go on a Secret Tour of Halifax

If you’re looking for a unique way to explore Halifax on your own, consider taking a self-guided tour with Secret Tours. You get to choose the challenge, and your phone becomes your guide. With each clue you’re given, you’ll explore a secret side of the city!

Stop by the Fairview Lawn Cemetery 

Everyone knows the story of the infamous Titanic, which sank about 400 miles off the coast of Newfoundland and Nova Scotia. The luxury liner, which was bound for New York, sank after hitting the corner of an iceberg, killing many of the people on board. Of the bodies recovered, 121 are buried at Fairview Lawn Cemetery. It’s quite a sad place to visit, and 1/3 of the remains have never been identified. What’s made this into a little bit of an attraction is the graveyard reading by J. Dawson. With the success of the movie Titanic, people think that this is the Jack Dawson portrayed in the film. It is merely a coincidence. Nonetheless, if the Titanic left a mark on you, this might be a place to visit.

Experience One of the Many Halifax Events

If you happen to be in Halifax during the summer, you might be in for a real surprise. One of our favourite events is the Busker Festival. It’s one of the biggest in Canada, and it’s free to attend. You’ll find fire breathers, acrobats, comedians, magicians, and all sorts of talented souls. Plus, it’s all along the waterfront! The festival runs for six days over Nova Scotia’s Naval Day long weekend. There are over 300 shows over those six days, and no shortage of food, clothing, jewelry, and more.

Stop in the Halifax Public Library

The Halifax Central Library is much more than a place to borrow books—it’s a five‑storey cultural wonder that feels like a community living room in the heart of the city. Its striking architecture—layers of light-filled atria, sculptural staircases, and that cantilevered top floor jutting over Spring Garden Road—was even named one of Wired’s “10 most beautiful libraries in the world.”

Inside, you’ll find everything from a 300-seat performance hall and soundproof media studios to buzzing café corners and a tranquil rooftop terrace with stunning downtown and harbour views—all free for explorers and locals alike. Don’t miss the whimsical art installation of 5,000 miniature “Library Cards” by local artist Cliff Eyland, tucked behind the circulation desk—each tiny painting tells a story, and together they create a colourful modern masterpiece. Whether you’re here to catch an author talk, research Nova Scotia’s past in the Local History Room, or just admire the architecture, it’s a great place to stop by for a visit.

Halifax Seaport Farmer’s Market

Step into the Halifax Seaport Farmers’ Market, and you’re instantly wrapped in a lively mix of history, community, and local flavour! Dating back to 1750, it holds the title of the oldest continuously running farmers’ market in North America, now thriving in the airy Pavilion 23 overlooking the harbour.

With 100+ vendors (and sometimes over 250!), you can sample everything from fresh Annapolis Valley apples and Halifax seafood to artisanal baked goods, handmade crafts, and small-batch sauces. Bonus tip: free parking on weekends, and you’ll often catch live community events or seasonal giveaways—like holiday food drives—making it a joyful, immersive experience that’s so much more than shopping.

Visit Peggy’s Cove

No trip to Halifax is complete without a scenic detour to Peggy’s Cove—Nova Scotia’s most iconic fishing village! Just a short drive from the city, this postcard-perfect spot is famous for its rugged coastal beauty, charming seaside homes, and the legendary Peggy’s Point Lighthouse perched on wave-washed granite rocks. If you do go, don’t forget to check out our article about the best things to do in Peggy’s Cove.

Go on a Winery Tour in Wolfville

Not many people know that Nova Scotia is home to a wonderful wine region called the Annapolis Valley. This region is located in the western part of the Nova Scotia peninsula, squeezed in between two parallel mountain ranges along the shore of the Bay of Fundy. Thanks to the shelter provided by these two mountain regions, it creates a “micro-climate” is created that produces relatively mild temperatures. Toss in fertile glacial sedimentary soils, and you have a great place for producing wine! This incredible wine region is only an hour’s drive from Halifax, so book yourself in for a winery tour of the Annapolis Valley and experience one of the best things to do in Nova Scotia.

As Atlantic Canada’s biggest city, there’s no shortage of fun things to do in Halifax. Whether you’re looking for things to do in Halifax today, things to do in Halifax this weekend, or things to do on your next Maritime vacation, this list above is just some of the best things to do within the city of Halifax. Depending on the time you visit, there are also a lot of Halifax activities to partake in, such as kayaking, fishing, biking, and even surfing! When you’re done with the city, there are a number of things to do in the surrounding area as well.

For more cool things to do in Atlantic Canada, check out these articles below:

• Things to Do in Nova Scotia
• Things to Do in New Brunswick
• Things to Do in PEI
• Things to Do in Newfoundland

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