Things to do in Halifax Nova Scotia

Halifax Citadel National Historic Site

Halifax Citadel National Historic Site

Halifax Citadel National Historic Site, which was built in 1856, stands above the city's downtown. It never actually saw battle, but is an excellent example of a 19th-century British fort. During summer months, interpreters wear red British uniforms.

A road cuts up the hillside to the fortress, and viewpoints have excellent views of the city, the harbor, Dartmouth, little Georges Island, and the Angus L Macdonald bridge. The Old Town Clock, which has become the symbol of Halifax, also sits on the hillside. Prince Edward originally commissioned it in 1803. It has four clock-faces and chimes and is an enduring memorial to the punctuality of a strict disciplinarian.

2 Halifax Harborfront

Much of the downtown waterfront in Halifax has a boardwalk along its length where heritage vessels, small sail boats, tugs, and ferries come and go. The "Historic Properties" area has been refurbished as an attractive pedestrian precinct of 19th-century stone warehouses and old wharf buildings, now serving as bright shops, artists' studios, and restaurants with terraces overlooking the harbor. The roads are closed to normal traffic. The square between two warehouses has been roofed over to make an equally attractive mall. From the docks, harbor sightseeing cruises regularly depart on a range of sailing ships and motor vessels.

3 Pier 21 National Historic Site

Pier 21 National Historic Site

Pier 21 saw more than one million immigrants gain entry to Canada from 1928 to 1971. The interpretive centre has exhibits that explore the immigration experience from the homeland departure to being assimilated in a new country. There are views out to the lighthouse on Georges Island.

Just a short walk away, the Halifax Seaport Farmers' Market is loaded with local goodies. It's open daily, and there's a rooftop picnic area.