Places to Visit/Things to Do
The Citadel is a hilltop that looks over downtown Halifax. In previous years, the Citadel was a military spot, with four forts occupying the hill since 1749, housing British soldiers under the command of Colonel Cornwallis. The current fort dates back to the mid-1800s. At the Citadel, visitors can explore the passages and learn about the city’s history of wars. Halifax played important roles in several major wars, such as America’s War for Independence, American Civil War, and World War I and II. For more history, visit the on-site Army Museum. If you come around lunchtime, the traditional noon gun is fired. Free guided tours of the fort are led by members of the 78th Highland Regiment. There is no admission or fee for entrance or tours. The Citadel National Historic Site is open daily, but hours change upon the season.
Halifax contains much from the Victorian Era. The Halifax Public Gardens is a prime example. The serene gardens were established in 1867, and it features manicured flower beds, peaceful pathways, a beautiful gazebo, and more. The Halifax Public Gardens is a popular picnic spot within the city. A major reason the gardens are so popular is that it provides a peaceful haven from the city life. During the spring, summer, and fall, they open daily from 8 am to dusk. The gardens are closed from December to the middle of April. There is no admission costs, so you can enjoy a quiet, peaceful time without paying a dime.
The Maritime Museum of the Atlantic is the oldest and one of the largest maritime museums in Canada. It makes perfect sense that it belongs in Halifax, where ages of maritime activity took place. In the past, Halifax used to be a haven for pirates and plunderers of the seas. It also played a large role in both World Wars. The highlight of the museum is the exhibit of the Titanic sinking. The exhibit includes artifacts from the ship and offers more information on the incident. The Maritime Museum of the Atlantic is open from Tuesday to Saturday from 9:30 am to 5 pm, with extended hours on Tuesdays. On Sundays, they open at 1 pm and close at 5 pm. Entrance costs about $5 to $9 for adults, with the exact price depending on the season.
Known as Canada’s oldest Protestant church, St. Paul’s Church was founded in 1749 by English King George II. The place of worship features beautiful architecture and design, both inside and outside. St. Paul’s was modeled after another church in England, the St. Peter’s Church in London. Within the church, you can still find pieces of history from both Protestantism and the city of Halifax. The church welcomes visitors from Monday through Friday from 9 in the morning to 4:30 in the evening. Free guided tours of the attraction are available, but you must call ahead to set tour times. There is no entrance costs to St. Paul’s Church.
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Province House
The Province House is a three-story Palladian building that is the oldest house of government. It is the place where the Nova Scotia House of Assembly has gathered since 1819. Guided tours of the legislative building are offered for free. In the tours, one can learn about customs and the area’s government history. The Province House welcomes visitors every weekday from 9 in the morning to 4 in the afternoon. During the months of July and August, extended hours are offered. To explore and learn about this historical, government building, there is absolutely no cost. If you have time, you shouldn’t miss checking out the Province House.
Best Way to Tour Halifax, NS
- The best way to tour the city of Halifax (as well as many other cities) is by chartered buses and vans. Explore at your own pace within the safety of your private vehicle. Don’t worry about ordering an Uber or Lyft when you have your own exploration vehicle. Through Prompt Charters, you can order the buses you need. Prompt Charters is an amazing, affordable chartered vehicle company that caters to your every needs. Whether you need a bus for school trips, marriages, parties, campaigns, or whatever else, Prompt Charters can help you. Prompt Charters offers buses, mini buses, school buses, party buses, and more. Most activities and destinations listed above and below are accessible by chartered buses. Visit the website www.promptcharters.com to book your rental bus today!
Best Places to Eat/Shop
- Halifax Shopping Centre – The Halifax Shopping Centre is the city’s main shopping center of the city. It features over 160 stores and services, as well as plenty of dining options. The mall is also the host of several events and activities.
- Mic Mac Mall – The Mic Mac Mall is the largest shopping mall of Atlantic Canada. It’s located in the nearby city of Dartmouth, Nova Scotia. It also features over 160 stores and services, as well as plenty of places to eat at.
- Stories Fine Dining – Everyone enjoys a great sit-down restaurant meal at some point or another. The Stories Fine Dining is known as the #1 fine dining restaurant in Halifax by tripadvisor in 2018. This is a great place to eat a meal with your loved ones.
- Fredies Fantastic Fishhouse – The Fredies Fantastic Fishhouse is a popular seafood, fast food joint. The Canadian restaurant provides great local food to all visitors. They are rated the #1 local cuisine restaurant in Halifax by tripadvisor in 2018.
Have fun in Halifax!