Best things to do in Lunenburg

Learn about the fishing industry and its impact on Canada’s Atlantic coast at Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic. The museum, made up of rustic red buildings, welcomes visitors between May and October every year. See floating vessels at the wharf, hear the stories of retired fishermen, explore an extensive collection of historic maritime artifacts, or participate in an interactive activity with the local heritage interpreters. A charming aquarium, gift shop, and restaurant add to the fun and educational experience.

Visit St. John's Anglican Church, Canada’s second oldest church of English origin. Constructed in 1753 in the carpenter gothic architectural style, the church's exterior consists of almost all white brick walls, with black accents outlining the doors, windows, central bell tower, and spires. During 2001 the church suffered from a blaze, but thankfully it has since been fully restored. Inside, find a wooden, pyramid-shaped roof sheltering wooden pews, which survived the fire. Stained glass windows, which allow natural light to fill the interior, also survived the 2001 inferno.

Visit Bluenose II, a replica of the original iconic fishing schooner built in 1921. The ship became renowned for being the fastest ship in North America; it won the Fishermen's Trophy 17 years in row and was coined "Queen of the North Atlantic." Bluenose stands as the proud symbol of Nova Scotia's prominence in the fishing and shipbuilding industries. Head aboard the vessel and explore while the crew answers questions and teaches about vessel's rich history. After experiencing the impressionable ship firsthand, you will understand why it is featured on the face of the Canadian dime.

Spirit connoisseurs rejoice at Ironworks Distillery, an artisanal distillery set in the historical port town of Lunenburg. The distillery manufactures and stocks a number of different spirits for purchase, including light or dark rum, vodka, and a variety of liqueurs. Browse the aesthetically pleasing vodka of varying fruit flavors, such as blueberry and raspberry. If that sounds too adventurous for you, then ask for a taste test, offered on every bottle. Please check the website for season hours.

Wander through the charming streets of Lunenburg Historic District lined with colorful wooden houses and discover what makes this World Heritage Site one of the best surviving examples of British colonial settlement in North America. Nestled on a hillside that slopes gently towards the harbor, the old town retains much of its original appearance. The residents have managed to preserve the city's identity since 1753 when it was established. Visit the town's original parade square and waterfront area where former fisheries and ship buildings harmoniously blend with the seascape.

Explore Fort Anne National Historic Site, a culturally significant site conquered by many nations in the past. The fort was originally built by the Scots in 1629 and later further developed by the French in 1643. Visit 18th- and 19th-century buildings that today house various museums outlining the fort's history and showcasing the daily lifestyle of the soldiers. Try on costumes from the Acadian period, either a French or British military uniform. The kids can take part in the “Xplorers” program, which incorporates fun activities while exploring the fort and learning of its history. Marvel at the Fort Anne Heritage Tapestry, a colorful and intricate piece depicting 400 years of the site's history.

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.

Take things down a gear during a relaxing stroll through Annapolis Royal Historic Gardens. Established in 1986 in a scenic position overlooking a tidal river valley, the gardens explore Nova Scotia's natural heritage, as well as the changing ways that communities have tamed, used, and appreciated the plant life native to the region. Walk through the historically themed gardens, such as an apple orchard arranged according to 18th-century practices; a Victorian garden bright with colorful annuals; and a large pine forest, representing pre-Columbian times when the area was inhabited by the Mi'kmaq.

Built to commemorate the Grand Pre area of Nova Scotia, Grand Pre National Historic Site is a World Heritage Site, and the site of an Arcadian settlement from the 17th century. Lovers of literature will know that the village was the scenic setting for the epic poem, Evangeline: A Tale of Acadie. That's no surprise, considering its lush gardens and stunning shoreline. During your exploration, look for the memorial church and admire the paintings, stained glass, and exhibits. Pop into the visitor's center for further exhibits, multimedia presentations, and general information on the historic site.