Things To Do
in Halifax
Nestled on the east coast, this vibrant port city is known for its maritime history, showcased at sites like the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic. It boasts a picturesque waterfront boardwalk that invites locals and visitors alike to enjoy its shops, restaurants, and scenic views.
Halifax is also celebrated for its friendly atmosphere, making it a welcoming destination for all who explore its historic streets and natural beauty.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $250
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $35
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $75 - $150
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $40 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll along the Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk. Enjoy the fresh ocean air and local art installations.
Visit the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic to learn about the city's rich maritime history. Grab some lunch at a nearby seafood restaurant for a taste of local cuisine.
As the day winds down, take in sunset views at the waterfront. Optionally, enjoy live music at a nearby pub.
Begin your day at the Halifax Citadel, a historic fortress offering panoramic views of the city. Explore the grounds and learn about its significance.
Head to the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 for an engaging experience about immigration in Canada. Enjoy lunch at a café in the area.
Spend your evening at the historic Alderney Landing, where you can catch performances or visit local artisans. Dine at a waterfront restaurant for seafood.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich maritime history and cultural heritage.
- Beautiful coastal scenery and access to beaches.
- Vibrant local arts and music scene.
- Friendly and welcoming community.
- Affordable cost of living compared to other Canadian cities.
- Strong educational institutions, including Dalhousie University.
- Growing job market, especially in technology and healthcare sectors.
- Cold winters with heavy snowfall.
- Limited public transportation options compared to larger cities.
- Higher cost of housing in certain neighborhoods.
- Potential for Atlantic storms and hurricanes.
- Less diverse job market compared to cities like Toronto or Vancouver.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options.
- Healthcare wait times can be longer in some cases.
Best Activities in Halifax
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore numerous trails and enjoy scenic views of Halifax Harbour and the Atlantic Ocean.
Discover the iconic lighthouse and breathtaking coastal landscape at Peggy's Cove, located just outside Halifax.
Take a leisurely stroll along the boardwalk at the Halifax waterfront, lined with shops, restaurants, and beautiful views.
Enjoy a water adventure by kayaking or paddleboarding in the waters around Halifax.
Tours
Uncover the best of Halifax with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Halifax
Visit one of these nice places.
Famous for its picturesque lighthouse and rocky coastline.
Offers panoramic views of the city and harbor.
Scenic park with coastal walking trails and views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Features charming boardwalk, historic buildings and scenic views of the harbor.
Remote coastal area with stunning views of the rugged shoreline.
Food in Halifax
Halifax Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Halifax specialty, the donair is a spiced meat wrap topped with a sweet garlic sauce, tomatoes, and onions. It can be found at numerous pizza shops and eateries around the city, with King of Donair being a popular spot to try this iconic dish.
Must-Try!
Halifax's rich maritime heritage is showcased in its creamy and hearty seafood chowder. The best places to savor this dish include the Waterfront Warehouse and McKelvie's Restaurant, where you can enjoy a bowl with a view of the harbor.
A classic Acadian dessert, blueberry grunt consists of sweetened blueberries topped with dumpling-like biscuits. It's a delightful treat offered at many local restaurants, such as The Coastal Cafe and Stories Restaurant.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Halifax better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
As the oldest continuously operating farmers' market in North America, the Halifax Seaport Farmers' Market is a bustling hub of local produce, artisanal goods, and ready-to-eat treats. Visitors can sample fresh seafood, heavenly pastries, and international street food flavors.
Halifax boasts a thriving food truck scene, offering a diverse range of street food options. From gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches at Cheese Gypsy to authentic tacos at El Gallo, the city's food trucks cater to every craving.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Halifax is known for its diverse and multicultural community, so it's important to show respect for different cultures, religions, and backgrounds.
People in Halifax value politeness and courtesy in their interactions. Saying please and thank you, holding doors open for others, and being considerate are important cultural norms.
Halifax is environmentally conscious, so it's important to be mindful of practices that promote sustainability, such as recycling and reducing waste.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Halifax with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Halifax
Ensure a smooth experience
In Halifax, Canada, tipping is commonly practiced in restaurants, bars, hotels, and for certain services such as taxi rides and hairdressing. The standard tipping rate is around 15-20% of the total bill, and it is appreciated for good service.
Payment in Halifax, Canada, is primarily done through credit/debit cards, cash, and electronic transfers. Most businesses accept major credit cards, and contactless payment options are becoming increasingly popular. It is recommended to have some cash on hand for smaller businesses and vendors who may not accept cards.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Halifax.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Halifax, as the city comes alive with colorful blooms and events. The weather starts to warm up, and you can enjoy outdoor activities and festivals.
Summer is peak tourist season in Halifax, with warm weather and plenty of outdoor activities. It's a great time to visit the city's beaches, enjoy outdoor concerts, and explore the local cuisine.
Fall in Halifax is beautiful, with the changing colors of the foliage creating stunning landscapes. The weather starts to cool down, making it a great time for scenic drives and outdoor adventures.
Winter in Halifax can be cold and snowy, but it's also a great time for winter sports enthusiasts. You can go skiing, snowboarding, or ice skating, and enjoy the festive holiday atmosphere in the city.
Halifax at Night
Hiking in Halifax
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A large park in Halifax offering various trails with coastal views and a mix of forested and open areas.
A scenic trail that winds through wooded areas with access to beautiful lakes and a peaceful setting.
Located in the nearby Musquodoboit Trailway, this trail offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and the opportunity for wildlife spotting.
A waterfront walking trail that provides stunning views of the harbor, with multiple entry points throughout the city.
Features a mix of trails along the lakes and through wooded areas, making it a great spot for hiking and enjoying nature.
An urban wilderness trail that provides access to nature while being close to the heart of the city, with well-marked paths.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Halifax through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Halifax by plane.
The primary airport serving Halifax, Nova Scotia, known for its international and domestic flights.
Located in Saint John, New Brunswick, approximately 90 miles from Halifax; serves both domestic and international destinations.
Situated in Moncton, New Brunswick, around 135 miles from Halifax; provides domestic and some international flights.
Located in Fredericton, New Brunswick, approximately 190 miles from Halifax; offers domestic flights and limited international services.
Situated on Prince Edward Island, around 130 miles from Halifax; serves domestic flights with some seasonal international options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Individuals who hold Canadian citizenship, representing a significant portion of the population.
People who have moved to Halifax from other countries, contributing to cultural diversity.
Individuals who have fled conflict or persecution and have resettled in Halifax.
Members of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities, with a rich cultural heritage.
Young adults, primarily from other regions and countries, attending universities and colleges in Halifax.
Older adults, typically aged 65 and older, contributing to the demographic landscape.
Individuals aged 15-24, often comprising a large segment of the population due to educational institutions.
The Soul of Halifax
Discover the essence of Halifax through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Ice hockey is extremely popular in Halifax, with numerous local leagues and the presence of the Halifax Mooseheads, a major junior hockey team in the QMJHL.
Soccer has been growing in popularity in Halifax, with teams like Halifax Wanderers FC in the Canadian Premier League engaging a passionate fan base.
Rugby has a strong following, with clubs like the Halifax Rugby Club and community leagues promoting the sport for various age groups.
Basketball is popular in Halifax, with many youth leagues and the local university teams stirring community interest.
Baseball maintains a steady popularity in Halifax, with local amateur teams and youth leagues playing a vital role in the community.
Both running and cycling have a strong presence in Halifax, supported by various clubs and events that promote health and fitness.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Halifax.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Halifax caters well to vegetarians and vegans, with many restaurants offering creative plant-based dishes. The Wooden Monkey and enVie A Vegan Kitchen are particularly acclaimed for their diverse and flavorful vegetarian and vegan menus.
Visitors with gluten restrictions will find welcoming options throughout Halifax. From gluten-free fish and chips at The Canteen to the extensive menu of gluten-free crepes at Cabin Coffee, there are numerous great dining choices for those with gluten sensitivities.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Halifax with these cultural adventures.
