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Halifax Citadel National Historic Site, Halifax

4.6
Must see · Military Museum · Historic Site
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Step back in time at Halifax Citadel National Historic Site, a 250-year-old hilltop fortification overlooking the city. Learn about thecitadel's rich military history by taking a guided tour and observing costumed re-enactments. You can even find out what it was like working in the fort with the "Soldier for a Day" activity, which involves donning a uniform and taking part in drills. Fire authentic rifles of the time, and take ghostly night tours. After absorbing so much history, take a moment to refresh in the coffee bar, or peruse the gift shop. Plan to visit Halifax Citadel National Historic Site and other customer-reviewed, writer-recommended Halifax attractions using our Halifax tour planning site.
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Halifax Citadel National Historic Site reviews

TripAdvisor traveler rating
TripAdvisor traveler rating 4.5
3,806 reviews
Google
4.6
TripAdvisor
  • Fun place to visit in the middle of the city. Halifax is on a hill, and rightfully the citadel is at the top giving the folks at the time a good vantage point of the seaway. So just be prepared to... 
    Fun place to visit in the middle of the city. Halifax is on a hill, and rightfully the citadel is at the top giving the folks at the time a good vantage point of the seaway. So just be prepared to...  more »
  • This icon tourist attraction site is very easy to spot from most places in the downtown area. While I couldn'texplore the inside of this place as I expected, due to the time, I would surely visit... 
    This icon tourist attraction site is very easy to spot from most places in the downtown area. While I couldn'texplore the inside of this place as I expected, due to the time, I would surely visit...  more »
  • We went in February and still I would recommend it! They fire a cannon at noon, and though most everything was closed it was still nice to walk around! 
    We went in February and still I would recommend it! They fire a cannon at noon, and though most everything was closed it was still nice to walk around!  more »
Google
  • Definitely one of the most popular things to do in Halifax! Highly recommend arriving around 11:00 a.m. as this will allow you to see the canon fired at noon and the changing of the guard at 1:00 followed shortly by a musket demonstration. We found that this was perfect timing. There are lots of History college students who are employed to tell you about the area so questions are easily answered. Also fun that they are dressed in time period attire. If you will plan on watching the canon, instead of lining up right next to it I would suggest going across the way. The explosion is still enough for you to feel and you will get a much better view. However, you will not be able to hear the explanation of what is going on that is given by one of the employees.
  • It's easy to see why this is THE signature attraction of Halifax. As first-timers to the city, this was first on the list - we were all enthused to see Canadian history unfold before us as we climbed the steps up the hill. The actors are very much into what they do, and the exhibits are very detailed. It even has a special exhibit on the D-day landing, as we know several vessels left Halifax for the event. We stayed for the 12noon cannon blast, which was spectacular. Even when leaving the fortress, we once again admired the view out over Halifax - you can't beat this place for the perfect panoramic vista!
  • This place is much more fun than I expected! I loved the immersive experience I had while observing the soldiers playing drums/bagpipes and shooting their guns. There are two museums with lot of history with a great quantity of artifacts. I spent around 3:30h walking around and I could visit it all. Cheers for the female soldiers! Recommend!
  • I come here almost every time I visit Halifax. Not only is it one of, it not the most recognizable spots in the city, it's also a great place to take some photos, learn about history and relax on the hill on a sunny day. It's also in a great location in between both the big Halifax Commons park and the downtown core with a lot of the restaurants and other attractions. They do offer guided tours, but only during certain times, so make sure to check in advance if you're into that kind of thing.
  • Thinking of having your wedding at a historical property? Look no further! Citadel Hill is awesome, we've photographed weddings here on several occasions and it's always been incredible. It's super unique, and located right in the centre of the city so it's easy to get to anywhere else you'd want to go for portraits (but honestly no need, because you get everything in one place!). The casemates are super cool little rooms for a neat looking reception, and the actual fort is just super dope for photos and a sweet skyline view of the city. Do this, you won't regret it!!

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