Getting to Halifax from downtown Toronto is easy with Porter Airlines. Billy Bishop City Airport has a comfortable lounge with plenty of workstations for ‘quiet vacationing’ while waiting for your departure. If you’re on a daytime Porter flight landing over Halifax, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of lush green terrain, forests, rivers, and lakes. 

Once you arrive, there’s so much to see and do, and you can explore it all at your own pace. Stroll along the Halifax Harbour, which has one of the most dynamic and longest urban boardwalks at 4 km. Take the ferry over to Dartmouth at sunset, or embark on a quest for the best ice cream in Halifax. The city’s event calendar is full of entertaining activities for all ages and budgets.

During your Nova Scotia stay, you might experience periods of intense summer heat — Halifax can be as humid as Toronto. Stay cool on extra hot days by keeping your plans simple. Let Atlantic coast breezes refresh you during a leisurely luncheon or late afternoon cocktails on the waterfront. Take in the stunning panoramic view of the harbour as pleasure cruisers, kayaks, skidoos, sailboats, and ferries pass by for your enjoyment.

But before you hit any of the patios, markets, tours, or events covered below, remember this one small Halifax tip: When Haligonians ask you where you come from, say that you “come from away.”

Savoring Summer in Halifax: Destination Patios, Rooftops & Restaurants 

I’m excited to share new food and drink recommendations that didn’t fit my Halifax winter guide. In the summer, the Halifax waterfront naturally becomes the most desirable destination. With easy access to the harbour and the lively boardwalk, waterside eating and drinking is a delightful experience.

Cable Wharf, Halifax Harbour 

This waterfront seafood kitchen gets top marks for the best Halifax patio dining experience. From the amazing harbour view and comfortable seating to the excellent service and unpretentious atmosphere, Cable Wharf is giving laid-back California vibes.  

Patio lunch highly recommended on the wharf! I couldn’t get enough of the sourdough bread from local bakery 24 Carrots, tiger shrimp, PEI blue shell mussels, and extra crispy fries. For dessert, skip the obvious choices like ice cream and cheesecake and go for the refreshing mango granita. On a hot, humid day, it’s the perfect treat. For a memorable Halifax summer setting, book lunch on this fabulous harbour-facing patio, and give yourself a few hours to indulge as the world sails by.

Halifax Bar Moxy Patio

The Moxy is a new addition to Halifax’s hotel scene and has quickly become a hit with travellers and locals alike, thanks to its fun atmosphere and convenient location in between downtown Halifax and the trendy North End. Pop by Bar Moxy to lounge on the stylish covered patio and try the new summer menu. Food highlights include the fluffy and fresh lobster roll, apple croissant grilled cheese, and seasonal fruit crepe with whipped cream and chocolate sauce. The patio is open from early morning until 11 pm, so you can order an iced macchiato or summer sangria pitcher at any time and relax in comfort.  

Best time for a Moxy experience? Anytime is a good time, but the Moxy Halifax is particularly ideal for relaxing with family or friends after exploring the Halifax Citadel. Located at the base of Citadel Hill, the Moxy has a patio and lounge area that’s perfect for both adults and kids to unwind and recharge after a day of sightseeing.

Daryâ, Halifax Harbour

From the moment you arrive at Daryâ, its elegant Eastern Mediterranean allure is obvious. Perfectly placed off the Halifax boardwalk, this wharf restaurant offers a sophisticated retreat from the hot pavement of downtown. It’s a lovely place for a rest after sightseeing, where you can chill with icy cocktails and a yummy slice of pistachio olive oil cake. The tranquil and romantic atmosphere is rooted in Persian aesthetics, setting it apart from typical seafood spots.  

Go for the atmosphere and incredible view. While Daryâ’s décor and view is beautiful, the restaurant seems to be undergoing some changes currently. For now, it’s best enjoyed for refreshing drinks and shareable snacks on the patio rather than a full three-course meal. Regrettably, the food didn’t quite measure up compared to other restaurants I visited.

LevelBar Rooftop Restaurant, Downtown 

The Prince George Hotel in downtown Halifax has a spacious rooftop patio that opens in the afternoon and stays open late. Be sure to catch the fantastic happy hour from 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm, so you can enjoy deals like sangria and mussels for just $8 each. This bar is a local favourite, with Haligonians often outnumbering tourists.

What makes LevelBar worth visiting? A great location near Scotiabank Centre, Light House Arts Centre, and the Halifax Convention Centre makes it an excellent pitstop for sporting events and concerts. The rooftop patio offers a good breeze, a wide view of the sky, comfy cushioned love seats, patio umbrellas, and gas-burning fire tables for late-night ambiance. The drinks menu features a variety of cocktails, including the refreshing Rangpur Sour. The friendly servers also have terrific tips on what to see and do in Halifax.

Sip Bar + Fare, Dartmouth 

Newly opened in January 2024, Sip Bar has a hidden rooftop patio that offers a private and intimate experience. The two-level establishment includes an open-fire kitchen and dining room on the main floor, while the upstairs area has a relaxing lounge and bar. Sip is a peaceful retreat from the more touristy side of downtown Halifax. 

Why this Dartmouth bar restaurant? Sip Bar + Fare stands out for its absolute dedication to quality and service. The cocktail menu is as intriguing as a pulp fiction novel, featuring summer-perfect creations like the Johnnie Coco and Out Of Office Reply. Sip Bar offers an impressive range of non-alcoholic beverages, ensuring everyone feels included. For food, their shareable plates and single servings are a hit, with top picks including charred carrots and scallop crudo. Dessert lovers shouldn’t miss the olive oil cake with fresh summer fruit flavours. Whether you’re after a late-night snack or a sweet indulgence, Sip Bar + Fare delivers a memorable al fresco experience in Dartmouth.

Halifax Rain Day: Top-Rated Indoor Dining Options

Halifax does have heat waves, but being a coastal city, you’re bound to encounter some rainy and foggy days too. When it’s not patio weather, head indoors to indulge your appetite. 

Pazzo Ristorante & Enoteca, Downtown

Since opening in February 2024, Pazzo has quickly earned the reputation as one of Halifax’s best Italian restaurants. Among all the meals I enjoyed in Halifax this summer, Pazzo Ristorante stood out with what can only be described as a mouthwatering feast. The vibe at Pazzo is bodacious — exuberant, personable, and effortlessly cool. I recommend savoring every moment of this dining experience, as the meticulous attention to detail, from the sommelier’s wine and food pairings to the attentive service ensuring your comfort, will leave you praising Pazzo long after you leave Halifax. 

Experience the passion of Italy in the heart of Halifax! From the moment you’re served the fresh-baked focaccia, accompanied by a clever arrangement of green olive tapenade, white truffle lemon butter, and sundried tomato and bone marrow pesto — mirroring the colours of the Italian flag — you’re in for something special. The prosciutto, aged to perfection, offers a unique tasting experience with each bite. For a main course, the caramelle butternut squash-stuffed pasta, adorned with toasted hazelnut, fried sage, and lemon white wine butter, is heavenly. All of this barely left room for Pazzo’s tiramisu, which is irresistibly fluffy and creamy sweet.

Eliot & Vine, North End  

The North End of Halifax is home to a dynamic food and drink scene, and Eliot & Vine made a great first impression during my summer visit. This casual eatery offers not only lovely service and high-quality, fresh ingredients but also a daily happy hour with enticing specials. Enjoy $6 beer and wine, half-price grand margaritas, a buck-a-shuck oyster deal, along with à la carte and prix fixe options on the menu. 

Looking for that casual North End vibe? My dinner party enjoyed the European-inspired menu, which has something for every appetite. Whether you want something light or a bit more hearty, Eliot & Vine has it covered. Recommendations include the cacio e pepe, handmade egg yolk spaghetti with pepper and parmesan — simple and perfect; and the panko-breaded haddock with asparagus and tarragon remoulade, which is so savory. For dessert they do an excellent crème brûlée.

Lou Pécou Pizzeria, North End

This artisanal pizzeria was discovered thanks to a friend’s recommendation. I had chevre chaud salad with local greens, bacon, toasted almonds, semi-dried tomatoes, and the most divine French goat cheese from Alexis de Portneuf, accompanied by a side of chewy schiacciata flatbread. My dinner companion enjoyed their sandwich made of fresh baked focaccia, toasted mozzarella, house-made pork belly, semi-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and magnificent mayo.  

Pop into Lou’s for pizza and more! Although it’s primarily a pizzeria, my friend and I chose salad and sandwiches with no regrets. In a heartbeat, I’d come back for a pizza meal based on everything experienced. This is a quality restaurant, reflected in the great service and exceptional tastes and flavours.

Both of these North End restaurants are located along the edge of the Halifax Commons, a big outdoor park for biking and roller skating in the summer, and ice skating in the winter. As recommended in my off-season Halifax travel guide, it’s always a smart idea to make reservations and check opening hours, as many places in Halifax are closed on Sundays, Mondays, and sometimes Tuesdays. 

What’s New In The Halifax Bar Scene? 

HFX has a lot of bars and lots of thirsty visitors in the summer! Here’s the tea on new bars in Halifax. 

Bar Sofia, Queen’s Marque 

This Latin American bar and restaurant is giving ‘Rainbow Mountain’ realness with its vibrantly tiled patio and surreal pop art. Bar Sofia’s young, sexy vibe radiates inside and out, igniting an appetite for fun and celebration. The energetic atmosphere and abundance of outdoor seating makes it the perfect waterfront cocktail bar for patio parties with live DJs, melos and tacos, pisco sours, slushie cocktails + more. Bonus: Every other Tuesday night, Bar Sofia hosts epic cocktail mix-off competitions. For $25 per heat, enjoy two unique cocktails crafted by local Halifax bartenders and mixologists, then cast your vote to decide who is the mixology master! Follow @barsofia.hfx for Fait Avec Booze cocktail competition blasts. 

On my winter visit to Halifax, I heard rumours about a new LGBTQ2S+ bar opening, and word is that there is not just one, but two new rainbow spaces open in Halifax. I can confirm that Rumours Cabaret is now open, as I popped by for happy hour in July. Rumours opened just in time for Halifax Pride 2024 and describes itself as a rainbow oasis where love knows no bounds and the spotlight shines all night. Located near the waterfront, Rumours Cabaret is a welcome addition to the queer Halifax bar scene, which has been experiencing a long dry spell. I did hear that the other 2SLGBTQ+ bar ‘Stardust’ is planning to open end of summer, but not able to confirm at time of publishing. 

Another recent addition to Halifax’s bar scene is Magnolia, a spot mentioned while chatting with the barkeep at Compass Distillers. Word is that this is where industry folk go to drink and hang out downtown. Magnolia doesn’t take reservations, so if you’re set on having a drink and bar snack there, go early. The space is intimate, making it perfect for smaller groups. Was told that the Magnolia Cuban sandwich, with roasted spiced pork, sliced ham, yellow mustard, Swiss cheese, and pickles, is a winner.

After late-night bar-hopping in Halifax, the best way to bounce back is with a rejuvenating brunch, and you can’t do better than Almonak!

Best Brunch: Almonak, North End 

If you’re recovering from a Halifax rager, Almonak’s flight of three mimosas will give you the will to live again. Made with fresh-pressed juice and Planter’s Ridge Elevation Frizzante, the most surprising mimosa is the lemon charcoal — apparently the best hangover cure of the trio. Almonak is the perfect family-run neighbourhood brunch spot, cooking with local ingredients and baking from scratch. It even has an adorable café at the entrance for a caffeine fix on the go, plus a cute little corner patio.

Want to experience the best brunch in Halifax? For a savory start to your day, try the classic benny with bacon, served with tasty potatoes and fresh greens — the hollandaise is bang-on, the house-made biscuit is light, and eggs perfectly poached. With six benny options, there’s something for everyone. Another savory favourite is the big breakfast sandwich with avocado. If you’re craving sweetness, the banana bread French toast with raspberry jam is irresistable, though the newly added waffles with lemon curd also tempt. Almonak’s generous food portions make sharing a great way to sample as many of their delicious brunch options as possible.

Summer Treats! Where to Get Best Ice Cream in Halifax

To find Halifax’s most popular ice cream shops, I asked locals: Dee Dee’s Ice Cream and Dairy Bar came up frequently. I also included some other noteworthy spots for sweet treats below.

Dee Dee’s is a beloved North End local business to stop by after shopping along Agricola Street. And over at the Stillwell beer garden, Dairy Bar is a summer take-out window for soft serve ice cream, sundaes, milkshakes, ice cream sandwiches, popsicles, freezies, and cold brew nitro coffee. 

Just down the street from Dairy Bar, off Spring Garden Road, you’ll find Leonidas Coco Dip & Chocolates, known for its quality Belgian chocolate. Treat yourself to a chocolate-dipped soft serve with various flavours, or indulge in milkshakes, crepes, or chocolate fondue.

For a whimsical waterfront treat, check out the newly opened Fog Company, near the Peace By Chocolate boutique. The soft serve ice cream creations, enveloped in a cloud of cotton candy, are definitely instaworthy but can be a bit unwieldy. While the cotton candy ice cream cones are a fun novelty, Fog’s classic ice cream flavours, especially the mint chocolate, are superb. Plus, their fresh-baked doughnuts are extra special.

While ice cream cones don’t make the best souvenirs, chocolate bars certainly do! Peace By Chocolate offers a remarkable selection of chocolate treats that caters to various tastes and personal interests. Plus, a small percentage of each sale is donated to help local, national, and international causes. For instance, the Hero Bar benefits the Nursing Homes of Nova Scotia Association, while the Trans Canada Trail Bar contributes to Canadian trail maintenance. Peace By Chocolate’s souvenir bars are not only delicious but also a thoughtful holiday gift that gives back.

Halifax Farmers’ Markets: Brewery vs. Seaport  

Which is the best Halifax farmers’ market? I explored both the Halifax Seaport Farmers’ Market and the Halifax Brewery Market to see what they each have to offer. The result? Both are awesome! If you’re obsessed with markets, baked goods, local produce, makers and crafters, then you’ll love Halifax market days! 

The Halifax Brewery Market, located on Lower Water Street, opens every Saturday from 8 am to 1 pm year-round. A local favourite, it offers a boutique ‘hipster’ market experience, with a strong focus on food. It’s best to arrive early, as by 10:30 am the market starts to get crowded and many popular food vendors might be sold out by this time. 

What sets Brewery Market apart? They offer free market tours like: Your First Time at a Farmers’ Market, How to Shop on a Budget, and Zero-Waste Shopping Tour. Simply email the market through their website to register. How cool is that! The cooperative also has something called Market Money, for those folks who forget to bring cash; just head to the Brewery Market information booth to get some. 

Other highlights include its location in Brewery Square, a historic Halifax building over 200 years old, and the fact it’s a member-run cooperative and vendors must register. Food lovers will be thrilled by the variety of curated offerings — from kimchi and kombucha to fresh fish, oysters, and pasture-raised chicken, pork, turkey, and eggs. Get your morning coffee from CTC Coffee, whose vendor actually sails to Colombia to bring back coffee beans! Absolutely love this market — the vendors are all so interesting and have amazing stories to share, another reason to go early before it gets too busy to stop and chat. 

The Seaport Farmers’ Market is open year-round on Saturdays and Sundays until 2 pm, located along the waterfront at Pavilion 23 — you can’t miss the big sign! Just like the Brewery Farmers’ Market, there are food vendors, but not as many it seems. There may be more of an emphasis here on crafts and souvenir items like jewellery, fridge magnets, candles, soaps, and t-shirts, which is fine because a lot of it in this pavilion is made by hand. You can still find fruit, veggies, and baked goods, but perhaps not as much variety as at the Brewery Market. Maybe save this market for a Sunday, and make sure you go to Brewery on that all-important Saturday morning market day! 

Both markets are good rain or shine, offering convenient opportunities for eating, souvenir shopping, and the most rewarding experience of all, storytelling with local vendors.

Halifax’s Summer Music Scene Slaps!  

From country and Celtic, to EDM and hip-hop, Halifax has an international reputation for banging music events. The scene explodes in the summer with an abundance of live shows, concerts, and music festivals. For those who like it loud, the rave and punk music scene is alive and kicking in Halifax. Here’s a look at everything I saw in just a few weeks. 

2037 Gottingen Street is a legendary Halifax music venue that houses the Seahorse Tavern, The Local, and the Marquee Ballroom all under one big roof. Here, you can find everything from East Coast fiddle music to hardcore. While researching this summer guide, I was amazed to discover that DOA, Upon A Burning Body, and the Circle Jerks all had Halifax gigs at 2037 Gottingen. The venue also hosts drag shows and, of course, brat dance parties! Special shout-out to local hardcore band Big Ricky’s Illegal Fireworks — you guys are awesome, best of luck.

Find out about punk events on the Facebook group, Halifax Punk Shows. If you’re in Halifax in July, look for Havoc Fest at the Commons Skatepark, and a new event, Havoc at the Hub. Combined, both events showcase as many as 20 live bands over a weekend of all-ages, free shows. The Hub, a new indoor skate park out in Burnside, Dartmouth, is open to skaters of all levels year-round and plans to host more all-ages live music shows alongside jam nights and skateboarding lessons.

When it comes to underground trance, trap, house, and techno in Halifax, Rhythm & Color was mentioned in the winter travel guide, but upon my return this summer, it seems there are more raves and dance music festivals than I can keep track of. One of the most anticipated rave events of the summer, and loved by locals, is Exploria’s annual July rave.

Vibrancy Festival is another Halifax electronic experience that is getting bigger each summer. This annual two-day party spans four locations, including the Citadel grounds for the first time. The best part of Vibrancy Festival for me was dancing on the grass in Ferry Terminal Park over in Dartmouth as the sun set to the beats of UK DJ Conducta, then taking the ferry back to downtown Halifax and being surprised by a DJ spinning tunes below deck. People were dancing on the ferry, making the trip incredibly memorable. I’m grateful I got to experience Vibrancy 2024!

Other notable electronic music fixers in Halifax are LightHouse, L’esprit, Big Speaker Freakout, Nocturnal HFX, QUOI, and Critical Mass. I did my best to confirm names, and probably this list is longer, if any are missing or kaput say so in the comments. Festival shopping tip: If you’re in Halifax for a music fest, be sure to visit Thief & Bandit downtown for psychedelic and funky non-binary lewks. Their sustainably made, hand-printed, and in-house sewn clothing will make your festival fit stand out.

The TD Halifax Jazz Festival is a great reason to plan a getaway to Halifax for a week of live music at the largest summer festival in Atlantic Canada. If you think this festival is all about jazz, you’ll be happy to hear that over time it has branched out to include a diverse range of musical styles. For this summer’s 38th edition, Killer Mike was the main stage opener! Every year, the lineup of the Halifax Jazz Festival sounds different as the event continues to innovate and expand its musical reach. This week-long event also offers several free concerts at community stages like Ferry Terminal Park, Halifax Central Library, and Hydrostone Park. The main stage is right on the waterfront, outside under the stars — the best place to party on a hot summer night in Halifax. 

Special mention: I have to give a shout-out to the annual EVERYSEEKER experimental music and art festival. I didn’t make it to Halifax in time, but this event looks exceptional, especially when it comes to raw new talent that pushes the boundaries of music industry norms with weird and subversive sonic landscapes and beats. If you dig experimental, ambient music, death metal, electronic music, jazz, hip-hop, or underground sub-genres like scifi-turntablism, then take a look at @everyseeker on IG. 

Halifax Summer Events: Talent & Diversity In Abundance!

Halifax’s event calendar is packed with an abundance of choice and talent from across Canada and all over the world. With a diverse range of summer events — many of which are free and more budget-friendly compared to Toronto — there’s something to please everyone. Here’s several popular annual summer events worth checking out when you visit Halifax in the summer.

• Halifax Pride
• Dartmouth Festival Series 
• Africville Summer Reunion
• BuskerFest 
• Farmers’ Market Week
• Great Outdoors Comedy Festival
• Rock the Harbour Classic Rock Festival
• Annual Halifax Seaport Beerfest & Fizzfest
• Halifax Improv Fest 
• Halifax Mural Festival 
• Halifax Fashion Week 
• New for 2024! SHINDIG Music Festival

Hey, this isn’t an exhaustive list. See the tips below to discover even more summer events in Halifax.

The Discover Halifax tourism office is an excellent resource for details about festivals, concerts, theatre, comedy, night markets, and all of the city’s wonderful seasonal events and must-see destinations. Be sure to visit discoverhalifaxns.com before you arrive in Halifax and browse their event calendar. 

For additional announcements on music events, street festivals, drag shows, vintage markets, art openings, and more local happenings, check out Halifax Events on Facebook and thecoast.ca.

Wild West Comes East

If you missed the Calgary Stampede and still want to flex your Cowboy Carter fits, then get your butt to Halifax for the first Nova Scotia Stampede from September 26 to 29, 2024. There’s gonna be rodeo events like barrel racing, bull riding, saddle bronc, and bareback riding, along with live country music shows over four days. Get ready to unleash your wild side, East Coast style!

Discover Halifax City Parks This Summer 

Halifax Public Gardens 

This is by far one of the most mentioned parks in Halifax. Accessible from several directions, the main entrance is marked by a huge ornate iron gate built in Scotland in 1890. Adored by locals and tourists, the Public Gardens is the finest surviving example of a Victorian garden in North America. It features beautiful huge trees, mini bridges, an ornamental fountain, Roman goddess statues, plus a duck pond with model ship replicas, including the Queen Mary I and a 3D-printed RMS Titanic. Travel tip: The park hosts a free summer concert series from June to mid-September. 

Other city parks include Point Pleasant Park with almost 40 km of winding trails; Dartmouth Common, which has over 30 cherry trees — visit in mid-May for Instagram-worthy cherry blossom season photos; and Sir Sandford Fleming Park, a little further away but has scenic harbour views, a paved seawall walkway, and a forested trail.

Best Things To Do On Rainy Day In Halifax

For those inevitable summer days when coastal rain and fog blanket the city, here are fun and relaxing Halifax rain-day activities.

Mix fun with a few pints of Nova Scotia craft beer at Propeller Arcade on Gottingen Street. On rainy Tuesday and Sunday evenings from 6 pm, enjoy unlimited FREE PLAY pinball and video games for just $10! Propeller’s arcade has a wicked number of games, from Mortal Kombat, Star Wars, Judge Dredd to Baby Pacman, Simpsons, and Stranger Things. With a ton of games and 12 taps of Propeller beer, you’ll be entertained and happy for hours. The venue also hosts karaoke, retro movie nights, live music, and has a beer garden for non-rainy days. For the latest events, check out @propellerarcade on IG.

Let Halifax entertain you! Also on Gottingen Street is the Bus Stop Theatre Co-op, a multi-use black-box space that hosts over 100 different groups and shows annually. Bus Stop showcases a diverse range of East Coast talent, including drag and burlesque shows, improv and stand-up comedy nights, live music, dance, acting classes, short film nights, gatherings, and more. This creative and cultural cooperative is a launchpad for emerging talent and an incubator space for artists of all genres. Shows that have been workshopped, premiered, or performed at the Bus Stop Theatre have gone on to tour nationally and internationally. While there, I was fortunate to see the show, LADDER 梯子 — a mask art performance infused with traditional Japanese Butoh dance theatre. What a remarkable and rare dance form to see performed outside of Japan. I recommend looking at Bus Stop’s event calendar on their website to see what interests you. 

The newly reopened Art Gallery of Nova Scotia offers an ideal rainy day retreat in downtown Halifax. You can’t come to Nova Scotia without seeing the actual little house that Canadian folk artist and national treasure Maud Lewis lived in. Besides the must-see Maud Lewis Gallery, there are other exhibitions, including the yearly Nova Scotia Art Bank Purchases Exhibition, which features diverse artworks by Nova Scotian artists in painting, printmaking, photography, ceramics, sculpture, beading, and even rug hooking for instance. The gallery is super accommodating, as once you enter, you can leave and come back throughout the day. Travel tip: Admission on Thursdays throughout the summer is free all day.

A final damp day suggestion is having a spa day at Nature Folk Wellness Collective in Dartmouth. The Toronto Guardian Off-Season Halifax Getaway Guide previously covered several rejuvenating spa experiences for winter trips, including Nature Folk’s holistic Nordic thermal circuit. This time, I had the opportunity to try the one-hour Sunlighten full-spectrum infrared sauna and a therapeutic Head in the Clouds facial. Loved the private infrared sauna treatment room that included a shower stall, as well as the built-in tablet and speakers to listen to a Spotify playlist or favourite podcast while in the sauna box. The cloud facial focused on fascia tissue and lymphatic circulation using a gua sha stone and manual massage. Nature Folk now offers acupuncture and fire cupping, plus the spa has an inclusive locker room. It’s easy to make appointments online, and a Nature Folk spa day is a fabulous reason to ferry over to Dartmouth for the day. 

Halifax weather is highly changeable in the summer, so be sure to dress in layers, pack a hat, and bring an umbrella on your walks around the city.

Memorable Halifax Tours! 

Halifax has plenty to do year-round, but if you need a break from self-guided exploration, book a tour and let someone else guide you for an afternoon. Here are two tours worth trying in Halifax.

Compass Distillers

If you’re obsessed with the art of distilling, a guided tour of Compass Distillers offers a fascinating grain-to-glass experience. This award-winning Halifax distillery features a Vendome hybrid still, the best in North America. The tour takes you through the entire production process, from fermentation to distillation. After the tour, relax at the on-site bar with a flight of four Compass Distillers spirits. Your Compass bartender will give you notes on each alcohol you taste, as well as how they individually can create the ultimate summer cocktail. 

Book a distillery tour or cocktail class on the Compass Distillers website. Once you’re finished at Compass, you’ll be in Halifax’s North End with plenty of dining and more drinking options in the neighbourhood. I’m a huge fan of the North End, it’s less touristy and feels like Toronto’s West End in a lot of good ways.  

Halifax Citadel National Historic Site

The Halifax Citadel star-shaped fort and grounds are open year-round, but summer is the best time to visit, especially on Canada Day for the traditional 21-gun salute. If you can’t be in Halifax on July 1st, don’t worry — the 3rd Brigade of the Royal Artillery fires a cannon daily at 12 pm. If you’re walking around downtown Halifax at noon, you’ll hear the loud boom! I recommend booking a guided tour for an immersive experience. Here’s a few options: Citadel Ghost Tour, Soldier for a Day, or Ready, Aim, Fire! I signed up for the chance to fire an authentic Snider-Enfield rifle and wear the coat of a Highlander soldier. It was a blast! 

To be honest, I was skeptical about having fun at this historic site, but I had a great time and ended up staying over two hours. A day at the Citadel offers old-fashioned wholesome fun, with young men in kilts teaching you about cannon fire and how to hold a rifle correctly, and rooms filled with fascinating war memorabilia watched over by guards debating the merits of Tim Hortons coffee. I loved every moment on that hill.  

Fly To Halifax

Porter Airlines’ flights from Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport on the Toronto Islands make a travel day much easier if you live downtown or can easily take a GO Train to Union Station. A free shuttle bus runs every 15 minutes from outside the Fairmont Royal York Hotel (opposite Union Station) to and from Billy Bishop Airport. Without traffic, the shuttle takes about 10 minutes to reach its destination. Traffic tip: If there’s heavy traffic, such as on a Saturday night in downtown Toronto, and you don’t have much luggage, take the Harbourfront streetcar. This will be much faster than the shuttle if it’s rush hour, and it connects with the Toronto subway and GO Train services.

Porter Airlines has the best complimentary in-flight snacks: Hardbite Kettle Cooked Chips from BC, Three Farmers Roasted Fava Beans from Saskatchewan, naturSource almonds from Quebec, and scrumptious Cookie It Up Milk Chocolate Shortbread from Ontario. Plus, a selection of Canadian wine and beer that are served in a glass, not a plastic cup. Love that! 

Before you jet out of Halifax Stanfield International Airport, make sure to visit Liquid Assets in the departure area. This retailer offers a variety of exclusive Nova Scotia spirits, beer, cider, and wine that you may not find anywhere else. If there’s an LCBO strike happening in Toronto, it’s the perfect opportunity to stock up on spirits before heading back to The 6ix! 

Travel tip: Halifax airport has a therapy dog service to provide comfort to travellers before or after flights. 

Where To Stay In Halifax 

Halifax has lots of hotels, you can read about the best of them in the Toronto Guardian Off-Season Halifax City Guide, available on our website under the Travel tab.

Halifax Puts Fresh Fun Back Into Summer Vacay 

I’m thrilled to have discovered Halifax’s year-round allure and to share my fresh take on one of Canada’s fastest-growing cities. It’s a wonderful destination for a summer trip and an ideal transit hub for further adventures, with Halifax airport offering nearly 25 international destinations and the harbour hosting over 200 cruise ships each summer.

Once you’ve had a Halifax summer, it will be hard to top. This East Coast city is one of the friendliest, safest, and most walkable places you’ll ever visit. Here’s to you being inspired to discover what’s so special about a Halifax summer.

The post Summer Travel To Halifax: A Fresh Take On This Hot City! appeared first on Toronto Guardian.

Toronto Guardian experienced the Atlantic Sex Show, celebrated at the legendary Marquee Ballroom for the Road to the Junos, and saw numerous Halifax drag performances.

In just a few years, Halifax has evolved remarkably, with Haligonians proudly declaring that their beloved burg has blossomed into a bona fide city. The post-pandemic era has seen rapid growth, with businesses flourishing.

Halifax, Nova Scotia, is a bustling coastal municipality, drawing in tourists by land, sea, and air, eager to explore its recently renovated pedestrian-friendly waterfront, new hotels, restaurants, as well as truly Canadian events like the Junos, alongside historical sites like Africville.

According to Statistics Canada, Halifax (HRM) ranks among the fastest-growing urban regions in Canada. Despite its rapid growth, Halifax retains its appeal as a highly walkable and safe city. 

Craft The Ultimate Canadian Cold Weather Getaway To Halifax

Don’t let the cold stop you from coming to Halifax in the off-season! 

Take your time to explore all the city has to offer if it’s your first trip to Halifax. With so much to see and do, consider spending a week to ensure you don’t miss out on anything. Keep in mind that many places in Halifax are closed on Sundays or Mondays, and even Tuesdays, so it’s essential to check opening hours before heading out.

If you’re visiting Halifax in the off-season, be sure to pack sturdy waterproof boots and sunglasses. Also, bring a tote bag when you go out, as most stores do not provide shopping bags.

Despite heavy snowfalls in Halifax during the winter, snow removal is fairly fast and efficient, allowing for easy navigation around the city. In downtown Halifax, Dartmouth, and the North End, you’ll find well-cleared sidewalks for the most part. From talking with locals, December may be the coldest month, and January and February still receive plenty of snow. 

The city has numerous cold weather retreats like the Muir and Moxy hotels, as well as holistic spas offering massage therapy, infrared sauna sessions, and 5-star facials. Additionally, you’ll find cosy cafes and restaurants adorned with real candlelight and inviting fireplaces, perfect for snuggling up.

Our Toronto Guardian guide to Halifax is ideal for last-minute travellers itching for an early spring escape and people making long-range plans for their next winter vacation. 

Let’s get you started with the best Halifax travel tips and recommendations for an off-season escape to the East Coast of Canada! 

Top 3 Areas Of Halifax To Explore

To ensure your stay in Halifax covers the finest hotel accommodations, shopping, dining and drinking experiences, this guide is thoughtfully segmented into three essential areas to explore: Downtown Halifax, Dartmouth, and Halifax’s North End (which is often compared to Toronto’s West End during its upgrade era). 

Downtown Halifax: Walkable Waterfront, Fabulous Hotels & Where To Dine

The historic and easily navigable city centre offers everything you need for a dynamic mini vacation. Choosing a downtown Halifax hotel during colder months ensures immediate comfort when the winds blow. Here are three enticing hotels for your weekend or extended stay in downtown Halifax.

Muir, Autograph Collection Hotel 

The Halifax Muir recently opened in December 2021. This 5-star luxury hotel is the first Marriott International Autograph Collection hotel in Nova Scotia. Muir is at the heart of the new Queen’s Marque district on the waterfront and offers stunning views of Halifax Harbour, the intriguing Queen’s Landing steps, and the illuminating Tidal Beacon. Its modern architecture and contemporary interior design reflect elements associated with ocean voyages and East Coast nature, enhanced by original artwork from regional artists throughout the hotel.

What makes staying at the Muir so desirable, especially in colder months? For starters, the Muir wellness centre, Windward Wellness, has a tranquil spa pool, cold plunge pool, sauna and steam room, plus an ‘active’ halotherapy salt room (tip: book the salt therapy in advance). Muir’s rooms are spacious and bright, featuring an enticing bathtub-shower room combination and luxury brand Aesop bathroom essentials. Another perk is the Muir car service, offering transportation for short distances in the downtown area — a blessing when temperatures drop or rain starts pouring. Elevate your wintertime stay by requesting a balcony room, allowing you to bask in glorious afternoon sunshine with a lovely view of the water.

Lord Nelson Hotel & Suites

The Lord Nelson Hotel is full of surprises, from its Halifax naval heritage name to hosting rock legends like The Rolling Stones, Paul McCartney, and Ozzy Osbourne (room 417). Opened in 1928, the hotel enjoys a prime location near the Halifax Citadel, Public Gardens Victorian Park, and popular Spring Garden Street. Stepping into the lobby, you’re greeted by a blend of old-world glam and modernity, a theme that carries into the hotel rooms, capturing the timeless elegance of the Lord Nelson Hotel.

Why choose the Lord Nelson Hotel for a cosy retreat? Book a Parkview Suite with a fireplace to find out! Refurbished Nelson rooms feature lush velvety furnishings and snug robes, perfect for indoor relaxation while a storm blows past the windows. Indulge in room service meals served on silver trays, and enjoy the fully stocked bathroom with LATHER essentials. Premium Lord Nelson Parkview Suites offer separate work and sleep spaces, ideal for digital nomads seeking an extended stay in Halifax (tip: the hotel has a DIY laundry room for guests to freshen up their travel wardrobe). Plus, for Torontonians craving Kibo Sushi, a new Kibo market awaits just around the corner from the Lord Nelson Hotel.

The Westin Nova Scotian Hotel 

Dating back to 1930, this historic and grand Nova Scotia hotel was one of the first Canadian National Railway landmark hotels built to connect East to West. The late Princess Diana hosted a royal dinner at the Westin Nova Scotian in the 1980s. Conveniently located next to the VIA Rail station, the Westin is an ideal choice for train travellers.

Perfect for cold weather convenience. Arriving at the Westin Hotel brought joy after a two-day delay to Halifax caused by a fierce nor’easter snowstorm, resulting in cancelled flights. After check-in, finding solace in the hotel’s whirlpool was heavenly, melting away travel tensions. Halifax Westin is perfect for travellers who love a blend of old-timey hotel charm and budget-friendly conveniences (i.e., Atlantic Superstore and NSLC beer & wine is right next door). Travel tip: Start your day with the Seaport Social Salted Cod Fish Cakes and unwind in the evening with a ‘Vitamin O nightcap’ at the hotel bar while gathering local intel from the bartenders. 

These premier downtown hotels offer attractive qualities for a winter holiday. We hope our experience will assist you in making the best choice for your needs. Keep scrolling for additional Halifax hotel recommendations.

Dining Downtown Halifax

One way to affordably enjoy Halifax’s culinary scene is to visit Dine Around Halifax (similar to Toronto’s Winterlicious & Summerlicious food events). It is strongly recommended you make restaurant reservations no matter the time of year, and check online or phone ahead to ask about Happy Hour specials on drinks, meals, and oysters! 

Expect downtown meals to be a bit pricier; after all, it is the most touristy area of the city. When it comes to tipping, 18% is considered the norm. 

Two of the absolute best places to eat in Halifax are Drift at the Muir Hotel and the neighbouring Café Lunette.

Drift extends a warm welcome to all, offering all-day dining whether you’re a guest of the Muir or just stopping by. Curated by the renowned Chef Anthony Walsh, the Drift menu showcases modern adaptations of classic Atlantic Canadian dishes. With two cosy fireplaces and a stunning view of the harbour, the atmosphere is as marvellous as the food. Highly recommended for breakfast are the ‘hipster’ poached eggs, mushroom and cheddar omelette, blueberry pancakes, coffee cake, and organic yoghurt and granola. Judging by the superb breakfast, one can only imagine that lunch and dinner at Drift must be equally outstanding. 

Nearby the Muir Hotel, you’ll find Café Lunette Bistro — a delightful touch of France in downtown Halifax. Fans of ‘Emily in Paris’ will love to share Instagram stories of Lunette’s charming decor and fanciful cocktails. Like Drift, Lunette bistro at the Queen’s Marque offers all-day dining, featuring cold-weather comfort foods like French onion soup, steak and eggs with béarnaise sauce, and delightful treats such as the most wonderful crème brûlée and zesty pina colada French macarons. Don’t miss their incredible Happy Hour wine specials! Ideal for a late luncheon, the European approach to eating and drinking here is truly worth your time, especially on a rainy day.

Peacock Wine Bar 

Perched perfectly in the Queen’s Marque district, with a captivating waterfront view, Peacock is a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike. Ideal for a leisurely dinner, begin with refreshing prosecco accompanied by oysters and a grazing board featuring an abundance of cured meats, cheeses, and fermented treats. Progress to tapas-style sharing plates or savor one of the delicious handmade pasta mains (try the A+ mushroom truffle pappardelle). Check out the Sunday meal specials and 3-course prix fixe offers, and leave room for the irresistible chocolate flan topped with crème fraîche and a tangy sea buckthorn twist. Tip: Reserve a gilded-cage table for the ultimate in ambience. 

Shuck Seafood + Raw Bar 

Head to Shuck for Happy Hour to slurp up buck-a-shuck oysters and enjoy drink specials, especially if you need a break from sightseeing. Located on Lower Water Street, this nautical-themed eatery excels at fresh seafood, offering a diverse selection of tasty oysters. If oysters aren’t your preference, order the panko fish & chips dinner — a crispy and less oily alternative to traditional beer-battered fish. 

 The Press Gang Restaurant and Oyster Bar

Despite rave reviews for this long-serving Halifax restaurant, the Dine Around menu — comprising appetizer, main, and dessert — failed to satisfy. Press Gang certainly has an atmospheric environment, especially if you enjoy dining in dimly lit stone buildings from the 18th century with the chance of a ghost making an appearance.

There are plenty of entertaining places to have a drink downtown in Halifax. If you are after live music featuring Maritime tunes, then pop by the popular Old Triangle Alehouse and mingle with locals and out-of-towners who love to sing along to the music at the top of their lungs. If you seek Nova Scotia brews, then go to Stillwell Brewery and order a variety of Halifax beers in 5-ounce servings to sample different types (try the duck fat popcorn!). The music is loud and the patrons are a mix of students and Gen X’ers who enjoy a punk-rock vibe.  

If you want to dance, then check out The LOFT and Hide+Seek (also called The Complex) for local DJs spinning a diverse mix of styles. Was lucky to catch DJs’ WORKER, iinchworm, and Vero spin at the Atlantic Sex Show after-party at this dance venue! Take note, Halifax bars and party venues seem to have varying times for last call.

Downtown Halifax has an abundance of dining, drinking, and entertainment options, ensuring there’s never a dull moment — even during the colder months. For those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience, it’s time to hop on the ferry and cross the harbour to Alderney Landing in Dartmouth. 

Discover Dartmouth Across The Harbour  

Dartmouth, just a 15-minute ferry ride across Halifax Harbour from downtown, offers a laid-back atmosphere. There’s nothing quite like cruising over to Dartmouth on a sunny day. Basking in the sun on the upper deck while it warms you through your coat is blissful. Compared to downtown Halifax, Dartmouth feels like a quaint little village.

The ferry terminal at Alderney has Evan’s Seafood for creamy and thick lobster rolls for a quick bite. It also has a public library, a pub, and a charming Sunday market year-round. Dartmouth is a lovely place on a sunny day to slow down and recharge. Try Café GoodLuck and Two If By The Sea cafe, both highly popular with locals. 

Café GoodLuck offers a different scone flavour daily, roasts their own coffee, and serves fun and quirky drinks. Highly recommend trying their scrumptious scones and delicious breakfast sandwiches. The café seats about 12 people, and the kitchen closes at 2 pm, so plan accordingly — you wouldn’t want to miss this local favourite. Love the vibe here; it’s so friendly and relaxed, and they have cool cafe merch! 

For a delightful dinner experience in Dartmouth, The Canteen on Portland comes highly recommended. This casual neighbourhood spot offers a menu crafted from seasonal ingredients, with standout items like seared scallops and Sober Island oysters. While the kale salad is popular, it’s a bit heavy on the kale. The snow crab dip and mussels, while good, might leave you expecting a bit more dynamism. Overall, it was an enjoyable evening out with good service. Give it a try for Brunch! 

If you are staying at a Dartmouth Airbnb, then you must go by Maria’s Pasta Bar & Pantry for snow-day supplies. This family-run pasta shop and Italian pantry has high-quality dinner kits and ready-to-bake and eat items like lasagna, ravioli, gnocchi, meatballs, tomato sauces, tiramisu and coconut chocolate cake, plus small batch made in Nova Scotia Goodmore Kombucha — all meals and desserts are made from scratch using local ingredients. They also serve pasta meals for lunch on Fridays and Saturdays. Ideal for an Airbnb night-in, especially if a nor’easter storm hits. Top tip: Always be prepared during a Halifax winter or early spring with extra food and drink just in case, and consider having a flashlight handy.

Another fabulous way to hang loose in Dartmouth is to book a restorative massage or thermal water circuit at Nature Folk Wellness Collective, scroll down for Halifax day spa reviews. 

Halifax’s Dynamic North End

After experiencing downtown Halifax, venture to the North End for a renaissance of development and expansion. This part of HRM, abundant in creativity and culture, boasts a flourishing arts and food scene, plus a lively nightlife, making it highly attractive with the emergence of numerous new businesses.

Haligonians debate about where the North End begins and ends in Halifax. But for the sake of making sightseeing easy for visitors, it roughly starts near the far north end of the Halifax Citadel, and encompasses two main streets — Agricola and Gottingen — until they bump into the Hydrostone District. Happy to hear in the comments if you feel differently! 

Moxy Hotel Halifax 

Moxy Halifax is the first Moxy Marriott to open in Canada! The new boutique-style hotel captures the North End’s youthful energy with its fun work-and-play philosophy. Its central location, between downtown and the north side, means you can easily walk anywhere. Your Moxy stay will be a refreshing departure from the traditional ‘big box’ hotel experience. Picture this: check-in is at the bar, where a Moxy signature cocktail welcomes you. The busy bar area is the heart of social activity, where guests gather to eat, drink, meet friends, work, and more!

Why does Moxy make for an ideal off-season stay in Halifax? Because you can watch the snow sweep wildly over Citadel Hill from the corner window of your King Corner Studio while preparing a light meal in the well-equipped kitchenette, complete with a full-size fridge, stovetop, microwave, pots, pans, dishes, cutlery, and a toaster! Feeling sociable? Head down to the Moxy communal area to remote work by a cozy fireplace, visit the bar for delightful drinks and food (order the fresh green salad and the Spicy Gambas!), and chill in the evening with a rousing game of Cards Against Humanity or Jenga while a local weekend DJ creates a party atmosphere open to Moxy guests and Halifax locals (shout-out to DJ Caesar!). 

The North End’s Thriving Food Scene

The Narrows Public House 

For a truly local experience, skip the downtown Henry House Pub and head to The Narrows, where locals gather to eat, drink, and enjoy live Maritime music. This neighbourhood public house was featured in the 2023 Canada’s 100 Best list! Be sure to make reservations, as this heritage house-turned-restaurant is a beloved home-away-from-home for locals. The Narrows is like a mini museum of Halifax history, ideal for cold weather meals as wood stoves create a cosy and authentic Maritime atmosphere. Don’t miss the fried pepperoni, Dutch Mess with haddock, or any dish featuring bologna — a surprisingly popular choice in Atlantic Canada. Indulge your sweet tooth with heavenly sticky toffee pudding or Earl Grey panna cotta. The service at The Narrows is exceptional, ensuring you’ll never feel neglected. 

Bar Kismet 

Torontonians who are fans of Bar Raval will seek out Bar Kismet, as chef Annie Brace-Lavoie and partner Jenner Cormier worked there together. The Kismet bar has been recognized by Tales Of The Cocktail Spirited Awards and North America’s 50 Best Bars as being unique for inventive cocktails and thoughtfully curated wine. Diners are encouraged to order distinctive veggie dishes, fresh seafood, and handmade pasta tapas-style for sharing.   

Agricola Street Brasserie 

This stylish North End restaurant offers French-inspired seasonal cuisine in a modern yet rustic setting. On a cold night in Halifax, we found sweet French onion soup paired with steak frites for dinner to be the perfect meal. Agricola Street Brasserie also participates in Dine Around Halifax and offers a 3-course prix fixe menu Sunday to Thursday. With excellent choices of wine by the glass, inventive cocktails, and generous food portions, it’s a must-visit for travellers seeking the best cold-weather comfort foods, such as baked brie, beef Wellington, crème brûlée, and savoury oysters.

While The Narrows and Bar Kismet offer cosy and intimate settings, Agricola Street Brasserie, while still maintaining an intimate atmosphere, provides a more open space, making it well-suited for larger gatherings.

A night out for drinks in the North End is easy, there are plenty of restaurant bars that serve cocktails, and brewpubs like Stillwell Freehouse and Charm School, plus the award-winning Compass Distillers for artisanal cocktails and spirits. But if you want a clandestine bar experience, then you should seek out the private Charlie’s Club for a real Halifax throwdown. You can also head to the Marquee Ballroom for live music (including the Junos!), which is connected to The Local and The Seahorse, two other bars in the same building. Top tip: For underground music events check out rhythm_and_color on Instagram. 

When exploring the North End during the day, consider the following places for a casual meal or snack:

• Creative Cup: Offers sandwiches, bagels, sweet baked goods, and fresh coffee.
• LF Bakery: Known for buttery fresh croissants and bread (arrive early as they sell out fast).
• 2 Crows Oxford Taproom + Yeah Yeahs Pizza: Enjoy local beer brews (try a flight of 4 beers) and delicious pizza slices. Check 2Crows’ socials for special events like Drag Bingo.
• Hali Deli: A local favourite for breakfast and lunch, exuding classic old-world delicatessen charm. Feast on overstuffed sandwiches, smoked meats, and the famous potato hash (FYI cash only diner).
• Dee Dee’s: Pop by for ice cream or grab a burrito to enjoy later, conveniently located near Hali’s delicatessen.
• Julien’s Patisserie Bakery & Café: Located in the Hydrostone Market District, offering artisanal bread, buns, sandwiches, and other delectable sweet treats to recharge your body on a chilly day.

If your Halifax North End Airbnb or Moxy studio room with a kitchenette serves as your home base, consider grabbing ready-made meals at Jane’s Next Door. This tiny shop on Gottingen Street offers a good selection of frozen meals for a convenient grab-and-go experience. Additionally, Maria’s Pasta Bar & Pantry in Dartmouth and Pete’s Frootique & Fine Foods downtown are recommended for specialty groceries, ready-made, and deli foods.

Halifax’s Quirky & Artistic Shopping Scene

Many shops were visited to find the most perfect Halifax souvenirs to recommend, plus uniquely East Coast items that you might just keep for yourself. 

Downtown Halifax’s Must-Visit Shops

Carrefour Atlantic and The Puffin Gallery

Located at the Historic Properties on Upper Water Street, these two shops are owned by Michel Levasseur, a true character with incredible knowledge about East Coast artists and history. Carrefour Atlantic and the gallery space are both eclectic emporiums of books, art and handicrafts from Atlantic Canada, First Nations, and the Canadian North. Highly recommend you go in for a chat with Michel and his shop assistant Yolanda! 

Shoreline Designs

Also at the Historic Properties is Shoreline, a family business and working studio run by jewellery maker Jocelyn. The shop has an array of beautiful and affordable jewellery, especially wonderful is the range of gemstone rings, from larimar and green agate to golden quartz and stunning labradorite. One of Jocelyn’s sterling silver or gemstone rings will make for a lasting reminder of your trip to Halifax, especially if you make your own ring at one of the shop’s ‘Make Your Own Ring’ workshops.  

Another Shop 

Near the Muir Hotel is Another boutique for high-end clothing, including in-house line Sattva by Sarah, footwear (e.g., Vagabond and VEJA), accessories (e.g., Bare Knitwear and Yerse), bags and wallets (e.g., Elk and Ilse Jacobsen), and locally made Nova Scotia skincare products from cult brand The Cure. 

Dartmouth Destination Shopping 

The Trainyard General Store

If you’re in search of unique and fun Halifax souvenirs, look no further than Trainyard General Store! Not only does Trainyard offer a diverse selection of products, but they also give back to the community by donating 5% of sales to various charities, including Out of the Cold, Dartmouth Community Fridge, and The North Grove. Additionally, the store hosts on-site art and maker classes and features a community shelf offering free books and craft kits. From fantastic books by Maritime and Mi’kmaw writers to amusing postcards, pillowcases, tote bags, pins, and candles featuring iconic Nova Scotia images or cultural references, Trainyard General Store truly has something for everyone on your shopping list!

Renegade Records

Step into this old-school music shop and immerse yourself in walls filled with records, band t-shirts, CDs, 45s, posters, decals, and more! Whether you’re browsing or buying, it’s a fun place to hang out and listen to tunes, especially on a chilly day.

North End Must-Visit Shops! 

The North End of Halifax has wonderful shops for souvenirs and gifts. Though you may need to stroll a few blocks to reach them all, it’s well worth it, especially on a sunny day. Along the way, you can pop into a café or enjoy a pint at one of the neighbourhood’s local craft beer breweries.

Frabjous Delights Specialty Foods

Curated food and drink from Nova Scotia and around the world can be found at Frabjous Delights. Hidden down a side street, this culinary curiosity shop is home to Whim Chocolates, made in-house Belgium chocolate bars in an assortment of unusual flavours. Pop in for an informal chocolate tasting and to sample other shop oddities. Frabjous Delights also does foodie workshops like oyster shucking. 

Studio 14, Gifts & Gallery

The outside of this shop could be more enticing, but once inside it’s a treasure trove of affordable artwork by old and new Maritime artists you will definitely want to take home with you.

Other North End shops for novel Nova Scotia souvenirs include Lady Luck Boutique and Made in the Maritimes, both in the Hydrostone Market District. 

 Compared to Toronto, Halifax may not have as many vintage stores, making finding vintage garments and accessories in the city a true treasure hunt! Definitely seek out Lost & Found and Reiyee Vintage. 

Lost & Found 

Step into a dress-up world of fun vibes, where hand-picked secondhand fashion and vintage pieces stand alongside local artwork and hand-crafted accessories. Keep an eye out for NSCAD grad Anne-Sophie Vallée’s edgy and original jewellery. Fans of granny-chic and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel will adore this eclectic store.

Reiyee Vintage

Blink and you might miss this shop, as it’s on a side street. Well worth finding, thanks in part to the fascinating story of its owner, Bob, and how he stumbled upon his North End location: through an atypical storefront search on Kijiji! Bob originally operated a second-floor shop in Dartmouth but desired a more accessible space in the burgeoning North End. With a passion for vintage clothing dating back to his student days, Bob decided to segue into retail. Reiyee serves as an extension of Bob’s personal love for sporty and urban streetwear, offering a highly curated collection of collectable pieces.

Halifax Must-See Places & Seasonal Events

Africville Museum and Seaview Memorial Park 

Even if you learned about the history of Nova Scotia’s Africville in school (sadly, most Canadians don’t even know about this appalling saga), taking the time to visit this historic Halifax site will shed light on the experience of growing up and living in the once-vibrant community of Africville. If the Africville Heritage Trust executive director, Juanita Peters, happens to be on-site during your visit, be sure to speak with her; she’s a wealth of information about the lives and challenges African Nova Scotians endured on the southern shore of Bedford Basin in Halifax. Transportation tip: Take an Uber to Africville, as the city bus doesn’t take you close enough to the park and memorial church. 

Every July marks the Annual Africville Reunion, a cherished yet somewhat bittersweet occasion for former Africville residents and their descendants to gather, remember, and share the 150-year history of this nearly erased African Nova Scotian community. Africville was home to its residents until the 1960s when they were forcibly displaced, and their homes were demolished by the City of Halifax.

Other must-see places in Halifax include Peggy’s Cove (though it’s best to avoid the summer months when the road there is clogged with tour buses), the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21, and the Halifax Waterfront, boasting one of the world’s longest urban boardwalks.

Atlantic Sex Show 

Unexpected but titillating, this three-day event in Halifax draws in locals ready to embrace their wild side! It’s a safe space to explore your sexual curiosity through workshops like tassel twirling, pastie making, kink negotiation, and intimacy sessions. The schedule is packed with kink and dungeon demos, panel discussions, fashion shows, comedy acts, burlesque, and drag performances, followed by fun after-parties at downtown music venues. Shop a diverse array of Maritime vendors such as Mystic Mint, Blackwater Armoury, Twisted Sun, Babalon Leather, and Venus Envy for all your boudoir and sexytime essentials. Additionally, delve into discussions about sexual health and connect with representatives from the AIDS Coalition of Nova Scotia (ACNS), Halifax Sexual Health Centre, and Stepping Stone Association. Even if kink isn’t your vibe, it’s an out-of-the-box Halifax experience you’ll likely find intriguing!

Highly recommend catching a show at Neptune Theatre, the largest professional theatre company in Atlantic Canada. Had a chance to see LAST SHOW ON EARTH ™!, a brilliantly original play by Breton Lalama. It was a cocktail of hilarious and provocative energy, channelling vibes from Rocky Horror, Hunger Games, David Lynch, and Lady Miss Kier of Deee-Lite. Be sure to check out Neptune’s season lineup of shows online.

Additional events to discover in Halifax include Road to the Junos, OperAtlantic, Nova Scotia Music Week, the outdoor electronic music festival Juno’s Icefest, Icewine Festival, and the Nova Scotia Lobster Crawl. Also, keep your eyes open for the inaugural Nova Scotia Stampede scheduled to kick off in the fall of 2024. 

Let A Halifax Spa Experience Brighten Your Day 

When inclement weather strikes and sightseeing is put on hold, it’s the perfect opportunity to take a beat and unwind at one of Halifax’s top-day spas. We did some spa-hopping and recommend these three very different spas across the city.

Spirit Spa

Spirit Spa Hydrostone, one of two Spirit locations, offers the best facials in Halifax. Their Northern Lights Facial is a standout, combining upper torso massage, a customized face mask, and LED light therapy for a luxurious experience. Using Eminence Organic Skincare products, it’s truly one of the best facials available. After your treatment, you can purchase recommended Eminence skincare, along with many other premium face and body products at the spa.

Spirit Spa itself is stunning, spread across several floors with tranquil relaxation lounges boasting floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the charming Hydrostone Market District in Halifax’s North End. Cosy up by the fireplace in a plush robe and sip hot tea without a care. A spa perk: Enjoy a complimentary steam shower before your treatment for instant relaxation. It’s no wonder Spirit Spa has been named the Best Spa in Halifax! Highly recommended!

Nature Folk Wellness Collective

Suffering from travel-weary bones? Take the ferry to Dartmouth for a rejuvenating spa day at Nature Folk. This modern bathhouse, sauna, and bodywork facility by the waterfront offers a one or two-hour thermal circuit to retreat from a grey Halifax day. Move from the dry sauna to the warm pool to the cold plunge pool, refreshing your body with a DIY salt scrub and mud mask provided by Nature Folk. You can also book an infrared sauna session or lymphatic deep tissue massage for further therapeutic benefits.

Nature Folk Wellness has an earthy and chill vibe, perfect for healing and reducing overstimulation due to travel or other life stresses. Beyond the Nordic sauna spa experience, you can book a yoga session, somatic movement class, or a certified Sherpa breathwork session. The spa team is amazing when it comes to booking last-minute massages, always keeping you informed about available openings and addressing any first-timer questions promptly. Spa tip: Book in advance as Nature Folk appointments fill up fast! 

For a downtown spa experience, indulge in a halotherapy salt treatment at Windward Wellness at the Muir Hotel. Beyond halotherapy, the hotel spa offers a sauna, steam room, cold plunge pool, and spa pool for complete relaxation.

Getting Around Halifax 

Halifax is a walkable and safe city, with courteous drivers who typically give pedestrians the right of way. You can purchase single-use bus tickets or a transit pass, depending on the duration of your stay. You can pay with exact change ($2.75), or buy a pack of 10 bus tickets ($24.75), or get a month pass for $82.50 at Lawtons Drug Stores.  

The ferry between Halifax and Dartmouth (Alderney Landing) is covered by the transit pass, or you can pay the exact change (the ferry terminal has a change machine to make getting the correct amount of coins easy). The Halifax-Dartmouth ferry is the oldest saltwater ferry in North America; it takes 15 minutes and has stunning views of Halifax and Dartmouth. Top tip: Ask for a ferry transfer to return for free within an hour. 

Getting to and from the Halifax airport cheaply: There is an affordable shuttle bus that loops between the airport and downtown, look for the Express #320 shuttle bus. You will need to pay the exact fare to board: $4.25 cash fare.

Halifax Uber and taxis: Uber is fast in Halifax (at least in the off-season), on average never waited more than one or two minutes, and on average the rate was about $8 dollars within the city core.  

In general, getting around Halifax is easy and doesn’t take long in the off-season. Public transit and rideshare services are affordable and reliable. 

Getting To Halifax, Nova Scotia 

Toronto-Halifax VIA Rail eco-friendly travel option: I would love to travel from Toronto to Montreal, and then onward to Halifax on the Ocean train. An old-school way to travel that offers one of the most scenic and leisurely ways to explore the vast landscape of Eastern Canada. From what I’ve been told, this route has the Skyline dome car and offers Sleeper Plus class (which is a good idea to book, as the Toronto-Halifax route takes a whole day!).   

Other approaches include flying into Halifax Stanfield International Airport or arriving by ship at Halifax Harbour. Over 200+ cruise ships are scheduled to visit Halifax in 2024, starting in April. 

Discover Halifax’s Year-Round Allure

Halifax offers an abundance of events year-round, excellent restaurants and breweries, diverse neighbourhoods to explore, and first-class hotel accommodations. 

To help plan your trip to Halifax, we recommend you look online at thecoast.ca and discoverhalifaxns.com, as well as Halifax Events on Facebook for announcements about upcoming concerts, comedy shows, theatre, live performances, drag and burlesque shows, and other fabulous events in Nova Scotia.  

When flying out of Halifax, make sure to visit Liquid Assets in the airport departure lounge. Here, you can purchase unique Nova Scotia wines, spirits, beer, and cider that you won’t find anywhere else. Treat yourself to a bottle of Raging Crow Distillery Dill Pickle Vodka, Caldera Hurricane Canadian Whisky, Compass Distillers x Unfiltered Brewing Beer Whisky, or Steinhart Maple Vodka — perfect as boozy gifts for family and friends (or yourself!). Ask about convenient travel-size 100ml bottles to lighten your load of souvenirs.

We hope you enjoy your next holiday in Halifax!

The post Plan Your Halifax Getaway: Off-Season Halifax City Guide appeared first on Toronto Guardian.

The unexpected road trip destination inspired a newfound appreciation for the east coast in all of its charm and scenery-filled glory. We cruised through the stunning landscape in the 2018 Chevrolet Traverse – an easy-on-the-eyes and reliable vehicle for roomy, tech-filled road tripping. For those with families, the SUV makes a stylish and functional alternative to the much-loathed minivan and can transport up to eight people.

The east coast trip began with a flight into Moncton, New Brunswick, where a lineup of both Chevrolet Equinox and Chevrolet Traverse SUVs was waiting outside of the airport. Random fact about New Brunswick: One third of the world’s French Fries come from the province’s “French Fry Capital,” Florenceville-Bristol. As visible from the plane, Moncton is home to an unusual, distinctively chocolate-coloured river, the Petitcodiac River. The river is famous for its twice-daily Tidal Bore, whereby the incoming tide forms a wave that travels up the river, making it seem like it’s reversing direction. The province now also has a dozen wineries – something that may come as a (pleasant) surprise to some.

Just a 25-minute drive from the airport, the first stop was Cranewood on Main in Sackville, N.B. – a former private residence come organic bakery built in 1835 that oozes with history. It was previously the home of Mount Allison University’s President. Dishing up things like organic whole grain and specialty breads, baked goods, soups and sandwiches, the now family-run business offers a distinctive down-home feel and the type of service with a genuine smile that’s absent in many downtown Toronto spots. It’s definitely worth a stop here if you’re ever in town.

Next, we took the SUV through winding and rolling roads filled with quaint homes, fruit stands, historic churches and farmland that resonated with that unmistakable charm of a well-lived “simple life” at it’s finest. This drive from Sackville to Advocate Harbour, Nova Scotia – where we spent the night – offered a few memorable spots to stop along the way. The history buffs will appreciate a stop at Fort Beausejour. Located on the neck of land that connects New Brunswick to Nova Scotia, this is the spot of the battle that marked the end of the conflict for Acadia between the English and the French. Here, you can check out artifacts and exhibits as well as the views of the Bay of Fundy.

Named one of North America’s Seven Natural Wonders, The Bay of Fundy has the highest tides on the planet and is also known for its whale watching. Every six hours and thirteen minutes, more water than all the world’s streams and rivers combined moves in and out of the picturesque Bay – about 10 billion tonnes twice a day. The result is an Instagram-worthy landscape of sky-high cliffs, sea caves and rock formations. When Toronto is just a two-hour plane ride (or about an 18-hour) drive away, there’s really no excuse not to check this spot off your travel bucket list.

For incredible views of the Bay of Funday and some serious fossil sightings, we made a stop at Joggins Fossil Cliffs, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you can see the most complete fossil record of the ‘Coal Age,’ 100 million years before the dinosaurs. Here, you can opt for a guided tour or explore and photo document the landmark on your own.

Once we arrived in Advocate Harbour, Nova Scotia, we got up close and personal with nature at the Fundy Tides Campground, where we enjoyed a refined camping experience. For those craving solid walls, the five-star, luxurious options are lacking in the area, but part of its charm is opting for a bed and breakfast or a seaside chalet.

Regardless of where you stay, a must-see is the The Lighthouse Cape d’Or. Not only will you get magnificent sunset shots of the plunging rocks and ocean below, you can indulge in some of the best lobster you’ve had in an unpretentious and charming setting. The area features 200-metre high cliffs that overlook the tidal currents in the Minas Channel and is completely photo-worthy – especially at sunset. This spot offered the best views of the whole road trip. It was definitely easy to understand why the area was used in a Vogue photo shoot in 2015.

Also in Advocate Harbour is the Cape Chignecto Provincial Park, where you can walk the beach or hike the wilderness to the top of the 180-metre high sea cliffs – an option that will definitely break a sweat. The wilderness park has 29 kilometres of pristine coastline, deep valleys, old-growth forests and wilderness trails. If ocean kayaking is more your thing, you can do that nearby instead (or as well).

Just down the road, Wild Caraway Restaurant feels as warm and cozy as your grandmother’s house, and is seemingly frozen in time with nostalgic decades-old trinkets throughout. If you’re going to indulge in fish and chips, this is the place to do so – trust me. When it comes to the restaurant’s offerings, they couldn’t be more local, and include food from the immediate vicinity, like lobster, scallops, goose-tongue greens, humanely raised pork, garden vegetables and herbs.

The drive from Advocate Harbour to catch our flight home from Halifax was just as picturesque as the rest of the trip was. Not far from Advocate Harbour in Cumberland County, Nova Scotia is Spencer’s Island, a quaint seaside town with a driftwood-strewn beach and a historic lighthouse that dates back to 1904. In its operating season (June to September), the lighthouse is open to the public and features shipbuilding photos and artifacts. Another worthwhile stop is Five Islands Lighthouse Park, a 22-acre day use park on the Bay of Fundy that offers a panoramic view of the Five Islands, Minas Basin and some incredible tides.Nearby, treat yourself for the hours clocked behind the wheel and hit Masstown Market, a family-owned market in operation since 1969, to fuel up on some tasty goodness like fresh-baked goods and cheese.

If you find yourself in the Halifax Stanfield International Airport and you’re a lobster fan, you’ll be as pleasantly surprised as we were to cap off your travels with a seafood vendor that will pack lobsters for travel – something your family will probably appreciate much more than a magnet.

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People adapt to their environments and one of the things I noticed most about Halifax, and Nova Scotia, is that it has a ton of really cool small ponds and rivers making it a breeding ground for the sport.

One of my first stops was Long Pond in Windsor, Nova Scotia. Thomas Haliburton was a prominent business man, judge and author of the immensely popular Sam Slick stories. He attended King’s College in the early 1800’s as a boy. His remembrance of “hurly on the long pond on the ice” is the oldest reference to the game being played in Canada, and is Nova Scotia’s biggest claim to the birthplace of hockey.

Today the pond is used for many big annual events as well as being available for shinny almost any time. As you can see, snowblowers, shovels, and a net are available for use.

Our next stop was the Nova Scotia Sports Hall of Fame in downtown Halifax. The museum has many old and new artifacts from the history of hockey.

Hockey pucks, I found out, were once cut from the trunk of small trees to make the shape current pucks are designed after. Prior to this, balls or spherical objects were used.

The Starr Manufacturing Company produced ice skates from 1863 – 1939 and sold millions of the skates around the world. Bauer hockey company actually was a shoe company at the time and they teamed up with the Dartmouth company to make a skate in which the blade was permanently secured to the boot. The first of its kind.

Hockey sticks in Nova Scotia were said to be made by the local Mi’qmac people indigenous to the area and were carved from Hornbeam trees. The museum had many sticks from the past 150 years,  the oldest one dating back to 1865. References to people using and making the sticks on Lake Banook and Lake MicMac are abundant throughout hockey history readings, which is why we also pictured those locations. (pictures below)

The Hall of Fame also had a shrine for Cole Harbour, Nova Scotia native Sidney Crosby. Artifacts that included his washing machine from his parent’s house, as well as many items from his already decorated career.

Crosby has stayed well involved in his home province with both the Hall of Fame and his home rink in Cole Harbour being decorated with his donations.

This lock connect Lake MicMac to Lake Charles via the river that runs through it. It would be an amazing ice skate from one Lake to the other if the lock did not separate the 2 rivers that run between the lakes. There is even a little landing to help you get on the river once you are strapped-in to your skates.

The rink inside Cole Harbour Place, the rink where Sidney Crosby played as a child, is now home to the next generation of players who will try to achieve their goals while the trophies of their hometown hero in glass displays around the arena show them what hard work and dedication can do.

The home where Thomas Haliburton lived from 1836-1856 is now the site of the Museum that protects the hockey history of the town of Windsor, Nova Scotia. It is run by volunteers and is open on Saturdays during the winter and more frequently during the summer.

A great read to learn more about the history of the game in Nova Scotia and Canada is a book by Trevor J. Adams called ‘Long Shots‘.

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