I would say one of the best things to do while in Halifax is to take a sail in the harbor on a tall ship. Halifax is a real traditional harbor city, so sailing is a great way to experience it. Given that Scottish immigrants settled Halifax, the city still very much retains its Scottish heritage. Many hotels even have their concierge and bellboy staff wear Scottish kilts! In order to immerse yourself in the Scottish culture, I would recommend going to a pub and listening to some local bands with Scottish roots. Bars that feature great local bands include The Fife and The Lower Deck. If you’re not into live music but like a funky bar scene, definitely hit the Shoe Shop. It has an incredible candlelit ambience with great food and an amazing selection of beer. Other favorite bars include The Bitter End (great martinis!) and Seven (it has a very Manhattan feel to it).
Halifax is a perfect walking city! Start a walk on Citadel Hill (be sure to get there by noon to hear the cannon go off). When the British first founded the city in 1749, they were particularly attracted to Halifax given the size of the harbor (ideal for importing/exporting and transportation) as well as the city’s natural defense capabilities. Citadel Hill sits high on a hill over the harbor which afforded the British the ability to watch the harbor and the ocean to guard against intruders. The fortress still stands today and provides a beautiful view of the harbor, the ocean and the city of Halifax.
After meandering around Citadel Hill, walk down to the water to visit the Historic Properties. This little pedestrian area with cobblestones streets is gorgeous. Walking through it makes you feel like you have taken a step back in time.
After walking through the Historic Properties and along the waterfront, a side trip just outside of Halifax to Peggy’s Cove is in order. This picturesque little fishing village is about a 20-minute car ride outside of Halifax but definitely worth the trip. The lighthouse is built on large rocks and is surrounded by colorfully painted buildings, fishing boats and fishing piers. Try to plan your trip in the early evening so that you can catch a beautiful sunset at one of Canada’s most photographed spots.
Quick Tips:
There is a weekly newspaper called
The Coast that is available pretty much anywhere you go (pubs, coffeehouses, restaurants, some street corners, etc.). This is a great resource to find out where great local bands are playing, reviews of good restaurants, as well as any weekly happenings (fairs, busker events, etc.).
There is a place on the waterfront to book sails and boating trips called Murphy's. They also book fishing trips and whale-watching expeditions.
If you stay at the Casino Hotel, become a "Player's Member." The membership is free of charge, but you get great deals on hotel stays, restaurants, and other coupons that are valid at the casino (i.e. double your winnings, etc.).
Best Way To Get Around:
Because Halifax is such a small city, the bus is the only public form of transportation. If you want to make side trips outside of the city, you will need to rent a car. There are a few car rental agencies, including Hertz and Enterprise, and you can book on the Internet.
Halifax is a great walking city, so I would recommend walking as much as possible. Book a hotel in the downtown area so you can walk off all the cheap seafood you'll eat on the way home!