36 Hours in Halifax: My Ultimate Sightseeing Adventure! Halifax, Nova Scotia—what a gem! This guide is exactly what you need. Use it to make the most of your first 36 hours in Halifax! Discover historic landmarks and enjoy stunning waterfront views. Explore charming gardens and experience a thriving food scene. I’ve got you covered with a fun and exciting itinerary to get you started!
Getting to Halifax: A Seamless Arrival
Flying in? Porter Airlines often offers some of the best fares to the Maritimes. Once you land at Halifax Stanfield International Airport, it’s just a 30-minute drive to downtown. It’s super easy to start your 36 hours in Halifax staycation.
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If you’re from Dartmouth, the best way to reach Halifax is via the Halifax Ferry. It’s quick, affordable, and offers stunning morning views as the sun paints the city in vibrant hues. If ferries aren’t your thing, you can take one of the two bridges connecting Dartmouth to Halifax. But honestly? The ferry ride is my top pick!
Pro tip: Staying in Dartmouth can be a budget-friendly choice for downtown hotels. The daily ferry ride offers a scenic commute, making it a perfect start to your day.
Stop #1: Halifax Citadel National Historic Site
📍 5425 Sackville St.
Let’s kick things off with history! The Halifax Citadel is a must-visit, sitting proudly on a hill overlooking the city. Arriving at 9 a.m., I was instantly captivated by how well-preserved this Parks Canada site is. Watching the reenactment of the changing of the guard and hearing the iconic noon gun were definite highlights!
A friendly staff member (who was a walking history book) shared fascinating stories about the Citadel. And the 360-degree view from the hill? Breathtaking! It’s the perfect spot for sunrise or sunset photography, so keep your camera ready!
Stop #2: Maritime Museum of the Atlantic
📍 1675 Lower Water St.
Next up, I went to the waterfront to visit this fascinating museum. Spread across two levels, the museum is accessible via elevator. It’s a treasure trove of maritime history, ranging from Titanic artifacts to antique lighthouse lights. I spent hours here, completely enthralled by the stories of the Atlantic.
Don’t forget to stop by the gift shop for unique souvenirs! Once you’re done, stroll over to Pier 21. Join a boat tour or try deep-sea fishing. Halifax has so much to offer.
Stop #3: Halifax Public Gardens
📍 5665 Spring Garden Rd.
After a history-packed morning, I was ready to unwind. The Halifax Public Gardens are a dreamy escape in the city’s heart. I planned to meet friends here. Nonetheless, life had other plans. I ran into one of them during their lunch break instead!
What to do here? Take a guided tour, bird-watch, or simply find a quiet bench and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. There’s even an on-site coffee shop to refuel before heading to your next adventure. Just check the winter hours before planning your visit.
FYI: The gardens look magical in the fall, as you can see from my photos taken in 2023!
Where to Stay: The Iconic Lord Nelson Hotel
📍 1515 South Park St.
If you love staying somewhere with a touch of history, the Lord Nelson Hotel is the place to be. Built in 1928, this stunning hotel celebrated its 95th anniversary in 2023! The moment I walked in, I was taken aback by the beautifully preserved ceilings and elegant ambiance.
Bonus: The hotel is right across from the Public Gardens and just a 20-minute walk to the waterfront. Book your stay and immerse yourself in the charm of this legendary Halifax gem!
Dining & Nightlife: Argyle & Grafton Streets
After a full day of exploring, it was time to dive into Halifax’s food scene. The pedestrian-friendly Argyle and Grafton Streets are lined with some of the best restaurants and patios in the city.
This area has recently been revamped to make dining outdoors even more enjoyable. Halifax shines with spacious sidewalks and vibrant energy. It offers an impressive collection of local eats. Halifax truly knows how to support its small businesses. I love it
Final Stop: Georges Island
Want a unique way to wrap up your trip? Take a boat ride to Georges Island! This historic site is home to Fort Charlotte, perfect for self-guided tours, picnic spots, and tunnel tours. I couldn’t resist grabbing a seat in one of the big red chairs to admire the panoramic view of Halifax.
Note: Boat access only! Plan suitably!
Farewell, Halifax! Until Next Time…
And just like that, my 36 hours in Halifax ended. This city completely stole my heart—from its rich history to its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and welcoming locals. Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, water or nature lover, Halifax has something magical.
Now, it’s your turn! Pack your bags and embark on your own Halifax adventure. Where will you explore first?
Disclaimer: I tend to visit restaurants during quieter hours. Expect a lively atmosphere during peak dining times!
