Known for pirates, Halifax is a major commercial centre of the Maritime Provinces. From historical museums to performing arts and a lively waterfront boardwalk, Halifax offers plenty of entertainment for visitors.

Things to do

History abounds in the waterfront area, with naval exhibits and interactive displays at the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic. It’s also home to a collection of stories and memorabilia from the “unsinkable” Titanic that went down in the Atlantic near Halifax in 1912. At the star-shaped Citadel fort, you can visit the Army Museum and watch re-enactors fire the traditional military gun daily.

Stroll the boardwalk and wharf, then pop into the Historic Properties warehouses, now bustling with boutiques, brewpubs, seafood eateries and the Harbourside Market. You can also tour the 1820s-era Alexander Keith's Brewery before sampling Indian Pale Ale at the onsite Stag’s Head Tavern.

Take a walk through the ornate entryway of Victorian-era Halifax Public Gardens, wandering along manicured paths and picnicking at the charming gazebo. At the Canadian Museum of Canadian Immigration, you’ll be mesmerized by stories of those who passed through the ocean liner terminal in the 1900s to begin new lives.

For an evening out, head to one of Halifax’s trademark seafood eateries serving Nova Scotian cuisine. At the waterfront and downtown, you’ll find 2 Doors Down and Fredie’s Fantastic Fishhouse serving specialties like fresh salmon, fish tacos or fresh lobster rolls. To mingle with the university crowd, enjoy after-dinner drinks at the Auction House.

Getting around

Metro Transit buses, taxis and shuttles operate throughout Halifax. You can rent a car downtown or at Stanfield International Airport, about 25 minutes’ drive away.