There are a few must-do experiences on everyone’s Halifax to-do list and once you’re here, you’ll immediately understand why so many of them are outdoors.

Why stay inside when you can nod off in a hammock by the ocean, lose yourself reading in a tranquil garden, or gaze out at the vastness of the sea. So, lace up your hiking boots, pack both sunscreen and a raincoat, and get ready to enjoy Halifax’s great outdoors.

Urban Escapes

Plan to stop often as you wander Halifax’s waterfront full of shopping, beer gardens, museums, restaurants, tours, playgrounds and public art. Enjoy live entertainment or soak in the bustling harbour views from the granite steps at Queen’s Marque leading directly into the Halifax Harbour. In the heart of the city lies the Halifax Public Gardens, established in 1867. These Victorian-era gardens boast meticulously manicured lawns and floral displays. Point Pleasant Park, situated at the south end of the Halifax peninsula, is a historic 75-hectare wooded park criss-crossed with 39 kilometres of easy winding trails and wide paths, many of which are wheelchair-accessible.

Take a Hike

Hikes in the Halifax region are plentiful, as are the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean featured on many local hikes. Pennant Point Trail at Crystal Crescent Beach Provincial Park is an easy to moderate nine-kilometre loop of flat trails traversing rugged shorelines, sandy beaches and coastal heathlands.

Interested in a more challenging day? Taylor Head Provincial Park, which boasts over 14 kilometres of trails, features white sandy beaches with turquoise water and a windswept peninsula of coastal trails. For a more relaxing pace, the Salt Marsh Trail in Cole Harbour–Lawrencetown Coastal Heritage Park is ideal for walking or biking. Enjoy spectacular sea views as there are excellent viewing opportunities of coastal and migratory birds by the shallow wetlands.

Regional Road Trips

Venture beyond the city limits and experience the hidden gems tucked away in the rest of the Halifax region. Active, adventurous travellers should certainly add surf lessons at Lawrencetown Beach or Martinique Beach to their bucket lists, while those looking to slow down and connect with unspoiled nature should take note of the Musquodoboit Valley for hiking, canoeing and fishing. A Halifax road trip wouldn’t be complete without a stop at postcard-perfect Peggy’s Cove, a fishing village famed for its iconic lighthouse, panoramic ocean views and rugged coastline.

Why Go Now?

No matter the season, or the weather, you’ll find adventures waiting for you in a city where the land meets the sea.

Travel Planner

To start planning your trip visit discoverhalifax.ca