With more than 8,000 miles of coastline, Nova Scotia is a charming province in Canada that's perfect for all types of travelers. Nestled along the Atlantic coast, you’re always within 40 miles of the ocean, making it a wonderful destination for those who want great views and outdoor adventure. While the natural beauty, from rugged coastlines to interesting rock formations and vast forests with waterfalls, is certainly enough to inspire any vacation, the province is also full of historical charm in its major and smaller cities. Enjoy quaint museums or explore renowned markets. Boutique shops and varied restaurants are always nearby as well, along with some incredible local wineries and breweries throughout the region.
To help you plan your next adventure, we’ll look at some of the top things to do in Nova Scotia. Even as the second-smallest Canadian province, Nova Scotia is packed with sights to see and activities year-round. While many attractions are based in the capital city of Halifax, we’ll also include nearby towns and noteworthy places to create a well-rounded vacation for all interests. From fishing and sailing to whale watching, hiking, shopping and other exciting excursions, there are fun options in this welcoming historic destination.
Things to do in Halifax, Nova Scotia
Halifax is Nova Scotia’s capital city, and it’s likely where most visitors will begin their journey through the region. As one of the world’s largest ports, the city has a unique character and charm which blends modernity with old-school ruggedness. As a historically military-focused city, there is also a lot of historical culture to find here alongside all the modern boutiques.
Plus, you’ll have direct access to other nearby attractions, whether by car, bus or boat in Halifax Cruise Port. Before heading out further, check out these exciting things to do in Halifax Nova Scotia on your next vacation:
Spring Garden Road
If you’ve just arrived and are looking for a great place to eat, simply head to the central Spring Garden Road for a vast collection of restaurants for any occasion. This is one of Halifax’s busiest and most commercialized streets, and you’ll find a range of places to go, such as quirky shops and mainstream outlets as well as fine dining and quick cafés.
The architecture on this street is eclectic, with many modern buildings surrounding quaint Tudor homes in addition to other European influences. In fact, the entire city is a hodgepodge of styles, with numerous single-story buildings adjoining ultra-modern designs or more ornate, historical architecture. On Spring Garden Road, you can enjoy these styles along the main street and on the numerous side streets as well.
Halifax Citadel National Historic Site, and the Halifax Town Clock
When the English ruled Halifax in the 1700s, they built an initial citadel in the center of the city on a high hill overlooking the coast. Rebuilt in 1828 in a modern Victorian style, this citadel retains its historic charm, offering historical guides and artifacts that span from the English settlers to the Scottish Highlanders, along with more contemporary items, making it a great detour for those interested in local and military history..
The Halifax Citadel National Historical Site is open to visitors year-round. One of the most famous sites of this compound is the Halifax Town Clock, which was built in 1803 and has since been lovingly restored to its former glory. This clock is also visible from outside the citadel, so you’ll be able to get photos from downtown, even if you choose not to visit the complex.
Halifax Public Gardens
The Halifax Public Gardens opened in 1867, and the grounds continue to be one of the most beautiful areas in downtown Halifax today. Once there, enjoy a gorgeous European-styled garden filled with ponds, seasonal flowers, plus rotating décor that makes it gorgeous in any season.
In warmer months, walk or ride a bike through the area, or picnic and relax on one of the many benches. In the winter, the area transforms into a true winter wonderland complete with fresh snow, seasonal lighting and local attractions.
Halifax Seaport Farmers’ Market
Since 1750, the Halifax Seaport Farmer’s Market has showcased some of the finest and freshest seafood in Nova Scotia, and to date, it’s one of the oldest such markets in North America. Although the location has changed throughout the years, the time-honored tradition of the most bountiful seafood imaginable and high-quality goods remains intact.
Along with fish, you can also enjoy fresh produce, local baked goods, souvenirs and other exciting items. Stop by for a quick visit, or shop around for enough food to last your entire Nova Scotia vacation! Note that some stores only accept cash, so make sure to bring some with you so you don’t miss out.
St. Paul’s Anglican Church
Originally opened in 1750, St. Paul’s Anglican Church is one of the oldest churches in both Halifax and all of Canada. The classical and quaint building is an iconic fixture of the city, and you can stop by for photographs outside or enter the building for visitation throughout the day. Upstairs, you can view more of the architecture — and learn one of Halifax’s most interesting legends.
On the upper window, visible both inside and outside, you’ll find the apparent silhouette of a man’s face. Legend has it that this occurred during the explosion of a munitions ship in 1917, an event that changed Halifax forever. The story is that a priest was near the window, and the heat from the explosion caused his silhouette to become permanently etched into the glass. As one of the area's most unique myths, it’s worth seeing in person during your visit, regardless of whether you believe the lore.
Halifax Sunset Cruise
With an incredible coastal location and a massive harbor, Halifax is a fantastic place to go on a scenic sunset cruise. With an assortment of operators to choose from, you can enjoy a cruise for any special occasion. For a truly Halifax experience, however, consider boarding a “tall ship,” aka a large sailing vessel like the Tall Ship Silva Sailing Cruise, where you can enjoy live music, take in great views of Halifax’s iconic landmarks and even join the crew in raising the sails. Options range from family-friendly cruises to private, romantic trips with champagne and dinner. Whichever you choose, it’s a relaxing way to see the city and its surroundings from the water.
Fishing and Whale Watching Tours
Halifax has a huge harbor, and there are both fishing and whale-watching opportunities, along with general sightseeing adventures. These range from brief excursions to daylong events, which can be booked online by using AAA Trip Canvas to look up things to do in Halifax or by simply calling or stopping by the day of to check availability. Do note that some tours may be booked during busy seasons, so it may be best to check availability in order not to miss out.
Things to Do in Nova Scotia Outside of Halifax
While Halifax may be the cornerstone of Nova Scotia travel, there are also fun places to go outside the capital that are worth exploring during your vacation. Read on for some great day trips from Halifax that you should check out during your stay.
Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse
Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse, one of the most famous lighthouses in Canada, should be at the top of your list with its iconic simplicity standing out against the rugged rocks and thrashing Atlantic waves. Book a daylong tour from Halifax, or build your travel itinerary encompassing the community, also named Peggy's Cove. Although the surrounding town is a bit more off the beaten path, its East Coast charm, as well as a handful of stores and nearby restaurants, will keep you satisfied.
Peggy’s Cove is about 40 minutes outside of Halifax, and it’s an essential part of any vacation to the region. You can also take a whale-watching tour near the lighthouse to make your day extra special.
Lunenburg
Lunenburg is a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognized for its well-preserved and very colorful waterfront town. As one of the most intact British colonial settlements in North America, the destination is great for history buffs as well as general travelers. Like a more compact Halifax, the destination has many of the same great features, including breathtaking coastal views, classical architecture and a number of boutiques and local restaurants. With so much to explore, Lunenburg has some of the best stuff to do in Nova Scotia on your next vacation.
The Bay of Fundy
The Bay of Fundy, just a two-hour drive or bus ride from Halifax, makes for an incredible day trip. The area features a massive cliffside, plus “flowerpot” rock formations that emerge from the water, topped with lush greenery, presenting a distinctive beauty in any season.
There are numerous options for recreation. You can spend a few hours just relaxing on the beach or taking photos during your downtime. Alternatively, get active on the Fundy Trail Parkway or within the Fundy National Park, which has numerous hiking trails of varying difficulty, along with incredible forest and coastal views. You can also stroll at low tide on the ocean floor, a great beach walk activity for kids to learn about tidal fluctuations. Plus, there are 25 waterfalls within the park, making it an essential place for photography and sightseeing in Nova Scotia.
Annapolis Valley
Located along the Bay of Fundy, Annapolis Valley is the region’s primary agricultural district, dotted with picturesque wineries and farms offering scenic views and tasting events. Beautiful in any season, it’s worth exploring as a destination or a detour during your drive, complementing the Bay of Fundy’s dramatic rocks, forests and coastline.
Dartmouth
Dartmouth has everything you're looking for when you're wondering, “What is Nova Scotia known for?” The ferry ride from Halifax takes only about 15 minutes and costs about $3 each way, making this charming downtown district one of the most essential Nova Scotia attractions to explore on your next visit.
In Dartmouth, you’ll find historic buildings, craft breweries, art galleries, boutique shops and restaurants. Beyond the city center, there are 23 lakes, along with numerous parks and beaches, ensuring you'll be able to experience the perfect place to kayak, swim or simply relax in all the natural beauty of Nova Scotia.
Plan Your Trip to Nova Scotia With AAA
Ready to explore the beauty and charm of Nova Scotia? Join to experience travel as a AAA member, and start planning your trip to this exciting province within Atlantic Canada. Dream up the perfect trip with a AAA Travel Agent, or book on Trip Canvas and use your membership to benefit from the best discounts on hotels, rental cars and entertainment tickets.