5 Cheap or Free Things to Do in Halifax, Nova Scotia

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to be inside a giant bubble, sit in the cockpit of a real Piper J-3 Cub aircraft or see a 3-D printer in action, step inside the Discovery Centre. For curious minds of all ages, the center has galleries focusing on health, energy, flight and the ocean, while a children’s gallery lets kids operate on a teddy bear, explore art and music, or put on a play. Admission prices will appeal to the budget conscious; there’s a special family rate and on Wednesday nights, admission is free for everyone.

Looking for fun things to do with kids that won’t cost a mint? They’ll go bananas at the Instagram-worthy Freak Lunchbox, a funky candy store with a mind-boggling variety of sweet stuff. The owners of this self-proclaimed “confectionary funhouse” prowl the globe for new treats; KitKat bars in unusual flavors are one example of goodies that fill the shelves. If that’s not enough sugar, the staff can whip up homemade milkshakes in flavors like maple and peanut butter. A sideshow theme with circus art and retro memorabilia like Star Trek lunchboxes add to the fun-filled atmosphere.

Perhaps the only farmers’ market created by royal proclamation, this one was established in 1750 and is one of the most fun things to do in Halifax with kids. Its location has changed several times over the years, opening at the seaport in 2010. Browse goods from 250 vendors hawking edibles and drinkables like jams, wine, organic breads, honey, cheeses, chocolate and fresh seasonal produce as well as art, jewelry, artisanal soaps and locally made dog treats for Fido.

If you’re wondering where to eat, Halifax has plenty of local restaurants where you can find an inexpensive yet scrumptious meal. When skies are sunny, grab a table on the multilevel patio at Henry House and enjoy alfresco dining and people-watching. When the weather outside turns frightful, the cozy dining room, complete with a roaring fire in its two fireplaces, is delightful. Most dishes are less than $20 in Canadian currency, including sandwiches, salads, soups and heartwarming entrées such as chicken and leek pie and pan-fried haddock.

Every Instagrammers’ dream, this oasis in the middle of downtown Halifax is at its best in spring and summer when its bevy of beauties are in full bloom. Beds of roses, dahlias, poppies and many more floral varieties are visions of loveliness in this 17-acre Victorian garden. Trod curving gravel paths past an 1887 bandstand with gingerbread trim, statues of Roman goddesses, fountains and a pond where geese wade happily. On Sunday afternoons, swing and sway to live music at the bandshell. This little slice of heaven is open during daylight hours and admission is free.