10 Fun and Unique Things to Do Year-Round in Halifax Canada

Key Takeaways:

• Halifax offers a perfect blend of coastal adventure, historic charm, and year-round cultural experiences.

• From seaside hikes and historic forts to vibrant live music and local markets, this city is full of surprises.

• Visitors love Halifax for its maritime spirit, welcoming locals, and walkable downtown filled with things to discover.

Halifax, the capital of Nova Scotia, is a coastal city with deep maritime roots and a vibrant urban culture. Founded in 1749 as a British military outpost, it has grown into a lively hub that still holds its historic character. With its charming waterfront, iconic Citadel, and thriving arts scene, Halifax effortlessly blends the old with the new. Locals and visitors alike love the city for its friendly pace, stunning Atlantic views, and year-round access to festivals, fresh seafood, and nature. Whether you’re into live music, scenic hikes, or nautical history, Halifax makes for a rich and rewarding destination in every season.

Table of Contents

1. Stroll the Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk

2. Visit the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site

3. Hike the Trails at Point Pleasant Park

4. Explore the Halifax Public Gardens

5. Discover the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia

6. Take a Ferry Ride to Dartmouth

7. Enjoy the Halifax Jazz Festival

8. Sample Local Eats at the Seaport Farmers’ Market

9. Explore the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21

10. Tour the Alexander Keith’s Brewery

1. Stroll the Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk

Stretching over 2 kilometers along the edge of the harbor, the Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk is one of the most scenic urban strolls in Canada. You’ll pass local shops, food kiosks, public art, and iconic landmarks like the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic. The boardwalk is always buzzing with life—street performers, families, and visitors enjoying the sea breeze and sweeping views of boats and ferries gliding by.

This is the perfect place to grab a fresh lobster roll, sip on local craft beer, or hop on a harbor cruise. The area is accessible year-round, with cozy firepits in the winter and outdoor patios in the summer. Morning walks offer peaceful harbor scenes, while evenings sparkle with lights and live entertainment. No visit to Halifax feels complete without soaking in the rhythm of this vibrant waterfront.

2. Visit the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site

Perched on a hill overlooking downtown, the Halifax Citadel is a star-shaped fortress that’s been guarding the city since the 18th century. Visitors can tour the ramparts, watch the ceremonial firing of the Noon Gun, and explore living history exhibits that bring the British garrison to life. The views from the top are among the best in the city, offering a panoramic look at Halifax and its harbor.

Inside, interactive displays and costumed interpreters make the history feel real and engaging. The site is open year-round, and winter visits provide a quieter, almost haunting experience of the windswept walls. Guided tours are available, or you can explore at your own pace with a self-guided map. It’s a powerful glimpse into the city’s colonial past and military legacy.

3. Hike the Trails at Point Pleasant Park

Located at the southern tip of the Halifax Peninsula, Point Pleasant Park is a forested haven filled with walking trails, ocean views, and historic ruins. It’s popular with joggers, dog walkers, and nature lovers who enjoy the fresh air and relative solitude. The park’s shoreline trails offer dramatic views of the Atlantic, especially during sunrise and sunset.

Among the trees, you’ll find remnants of 18th-century fortifications and interpretive signs that tie history into your nature walk. The park is free and open year-round, with gravel paths that remain accessible even in winter. Bring a coffee and take a slow walk—this is where locals come to unwind. If you love coastal scenery and quiet forest paths, Point Pleasant will win you over.

4. Explore the Halifax Public Gardens

Located in the heart of the city, the Halifax Public Gardens are a Victorian-era masterpiece, complete with fountains, flower beds, statues, and strolling paths. Open seasonally from spring to fall, the gardens provide a peaceful retreat with vibrant seasonal displays and the soothing sounds of birds and trickling water. It’s one of the oldest formal public gardens in North America, and every inch is photo-worthy.

During warmer months, you’ll catch live music from the central bandstand and maybe even a wedding or two in progress. There are benches around every corner, making it easy to sit and soak in the calm. The gardens are especially colorful in spring and early summer, but even in the fall, the foliage puts on a stunning show. It’s a lovely place to take a break from the bustle of downtown.

5. Discover the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia

Home to over 18,000 pieces of art, the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia is the province’s largest public art museum and a creative gem in the city. It’s best known for its collection of works by Maud Lewis, a beloved Nova Scotian folk artist whose painted house is preserved and displayed within the gallery. Rotating exhibitions feature local, national, and international artists spanning photography, sculpture, and multimedia.

The gallery is open year-round and offers a peaceful, inspiring indoor experience—ideal for rainy days or winter visits. It’s located right in the downtown core, so it’s easy to pair with lunch or shopping nearby. Special events, workshops, and free admission evenings make this a vibrant part of Halifax’s art scene. Even if you’re not an art expert, the gallery offers something to connect with.

6. Take a Ferry Ride to Dartmouth

The Halifax-Dartmouth ferry isn’t just public transit—it’s one of the best and cheapest harbor cruises in North America. Running year-round, the ferry connects downtown Halifax to Dartmouth in under 10 minutes and offers sweeping views of the city skyline, docked ships, and the open sea. It’s a quick adventure, but one that locals and visitors both love for the fresh air and photo opportunities.

Once in Dartmouth, you can explore Alderney Landing Market, grab a coffee at a waterfront café, or walk along the Dartmouth Harbourwalk Trail. The ferry runs frequently and costs just a few dollars, making it easy to fit into any day’s plans. Sunsets from the ferry are especially stunning, and the twinkling city lights at night create a magical backdrop. It’s a simple, scenic escape that shows you both sides of Halifax Harbour.

7. Enjoy the Halifax Jazz Festival

Each summer, Halifax pulses with rhythm during the Halifax Jazz Festival, Atlantic Canada’s largest music festival. Held in scenic outdoor venues and intimate clubs across the city, the festival features global headliners, rising stars, and local talent spanning jazz, soul, funk, and blues. The main stage on the waterfront sets the perfect scene for dancing by the sea.

Even outside the ticketed shows, there are free community concerts, artist workshops, and pop-up events happening throughout the week. The vibe is upbeat and inclusive, drawing locals and tourists alike into its groovy atmosphere. Whether you’re a lifelong jazz fan or just love live music, the energy and sound of this festival are unforgettable. Plan your trip around it—you won’t regret it.

8. Sample Local Eats at the Seaport Farmers’ Market

The Halifax Seaport Farmers’ Market, founded in 1750, is one of the oldest continuously operating markets in North America. It’s open year-round and showcases the best of Nova Scotia’s local food scene—think lobster rolls, fresh oysters, seasonal veggies, artisanal cheeses, and maple treats. The building itself is bright and airy, with views of the harbor from the upper level.

Locals come here to do their weekend shopping, while travelers enjoy tasting their way through Nova Scotia’s culinary heritage. It’s also a great spot to pick up handmade crafts, soaps, and local art. Whether you grab a breakfast sandwich or sip cider while watching the boats, the market makes for a flavorful and authentic Halifax experience. Come hungry and bring a tote bag—you’ll want to take something home.

9. Explore the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21

Pier 21 is Canada’s version of Ellis Island and a must-visit for those curious about the country’s immigrant history. More than one million newcomers entered Canada through this very pier between 1928 and 1971, and the museum tells their stories with interactive exhibits, emotional video installations, and personal testimonials. It’s a moving tribute to the human journey of migration and hope.

You can trace your own ancestry, see recreated ship cabins, and learn about the cultural mosaic that shapes modern Canada. The museum is open all year and offers family-friendly programming, guided tours, and rotating exhibits. It’s one of Halifax’s most impactful attractions—both informative and deeply inspiring. Whether you’re Canadian or not, you’ll leave with a stronger understanding of identity and belonging.

10. Tour the Alexander Keith’s Brewery

Beer lovers shouldn’t miss the historic Alexander Keith’s Brewery, one of the oldest commercial breweries in North America. Founded in 1820, this downtown landmark offers immersive tours led by costumed guides who blend history with theatrical storytelling. The tour includes multiple tastings of Keith’s signature ales and seasonal brews in beautifully restored taprooms.

It’s not just a brewery visit—it’s an experience. You’ll learn about Halifax’s early days, the brewing process, and the man behind the name. Even if you’re not a huge beer fan, the atmosphere, history, and charisma of the staff make it entertaining. It’s a fun and flavorful way to cap off your Halifax adventure.

What to do if you have kids?

Halifax is full of family-friendly experiences that kids will love. Point Pleasant Park and the Public Gardens offer open space and wildlife, while Discovery Centre—a hands-on science museum downtown—provides hours of interactive fun. The waterfront boardwalk has playgrounds, ice cream stands, and boat-watching opportunities that keep young ones entertained. Many attractions, like the Citadel and Pier 21, also offer kid-friendly exhibits and activities. Halifax’s relaxed pace and welcoming vibe make it easy to explore as a family.

Where can I find free events in Halifax Canada taking place this weekend?

To find free local events in Halifax this weekend—like outdoor concerts, art exhibits, seasonal festivals, and more—use PlanMyWeekend.ai. This AI-powered platform curates real-time happenings across the city so you never miss out on something exciting. Whether you’re into live music, local markets, or cultural pop-ups, it’s the easiest way to discover what’s going on around you without scrolling endlessly.

Final thoughts

Halifax may not always top the typical Canadian bucket list, but those who visit know it’s one of the country’s most rewarding cities. Its combination of seaside serenity, walkable neighborhoods, cultural depth, and welcoming locals make it feel both vibrant and intimate. Whether you’re exploring historic forts, cruising the harbor, hiking coastal trails, or simply enjoying a local beer, Halifax invites you to slow down and enjoy the moment. Come for the views, stay for the vibe—you’ll be planning your return before you leave.