Best things to do in Halifax

Enjoy wandering among a wide array of plants, trees, flowers, and more at Halifax Public Gardens, one of the finest Victorian-era parks of its kind on the continent. Created in 1867, the gardens span an area of 6.5 ha (16 ac), and boast a number of public spaces and venues. Enter through the park’s ornate wrought-iron gate and stroll along the network of paths, alongside flowerbeds, past fountains, and under exotic trees. Kick back on a bench and people-watch, or grab a seat and enjoy one of the frequent musical performances at the bandstand.

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.

Visit Maritime Museum of the Atlantic for a fun, history-packed day perfect for the whole family. Examine artifacts salvaged from shipwrecks lying at the bottom of the ocean, and learn about the devastating explosion that ripped through the city’s shipyard in 1917. You’ll also have the rare and exciting opportunity to inspect artifacts from the infamous Titanic, the survivors, bodies, and wreckage of which were brought to this port. Though jammed with information and lore, the museum is not especially large, freeing you up for more sightseeing around the city.

Understand how a country can change and benefit through multiculturalism at Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21, a museum raising awareness of immigration in Canada. Find out what it was like to immigrate though pier 21, and see how immigrants have contributed to the country's culture up to the present day. Check out what's on display at the museum's temporary exhibits, which change regularly. Don't miss the gift shop, which stocks books, clothing, and signature products, the proceeds of which support the museum's ongoing research into immigration and genealogy.

Take a peaceful stroll by the water at Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk. Stretching for 3.8 km (2.4 mi), the boardwalk begins at the Halifax seaport and ends in front of Casino Nova Scotia. Along your walk you will come across notable museums including the Maritime Museum, Pier 21 Immigration Museum, and the CSS Acadia Museum Ship. You can also discover the local seaport farmer's market, the longest running farmer's market in North America. The promenade is also home to shops, as well as historic Halifax properties, such as the Cable Wharf, which is a former cable ship terminal.

Opened in 1819, Province House represents the oldest provincial parliament building still in operation in the country. The building features an all-stone facade, drawing inspiration from ancient Greek and Roman architecture. Take a free tour to see period rooms lined with red carpets and decorated with grand paintings embellished in gold trim. A visit to the legislative library is also highly recommended.

A popular recreation spot for locals, Point Pleasant Park boasts well-maintained trails and scenic harbor views. Established in 1866, the 75 ha (190 acre) park is home to an array of military monuments, as well as old English fortifications. Take a relaxing walk, go for a jog, or cycle on the park’s winding paths. You can visit the Martello Tower, or admire several fort ruins, have a picnic, and relax on the peaceful beach.

The iconic Peggy's Cove Lighthouse beckons travelers by land and sea with its traditional white-and-red facade, as it marks the rugged eastern entrance to the bay. Step along the water-worn, rounded granite rocks that the beacon is built on, and watch the powerful Atlantic break heavily against them. The lighthouse represents a major stop on the region's Lighthouse Trail scenic drive. Be sure to take extra care exploring this area, as visitor can be swept off the rocks by larger waves. Don't forget your camera and capture this lighthouse, renowned for its composition.

Learn about the beer and the man whose name adorns each bottle during a tour of Alexander Keith's Brewery, one of the oldest commercial breweries in North America. Founded in 1820 by Alexander Keith, a Scottish immigrant who would go on to become town mayor on three occasions, the brewery brews a range of beers, although its most popular remains the original India pale ale. Take a tour of the facility to learn about the history of the man and his beer, guided along your way by actors in period clothing.