Headed to Halifax, Nova Scotia? This city has a little bit of everything — history, culture, good food, and plenty of ocean views.

You can wander the waterfront, sip cocktails in hidden speakeasies, or take easy day trips to places like Peggy’s Cove and Lunenburg.

Here are 24 of the best things to do in Halifax to make the most of your visit!

24 Fun Things to Do in Halifax

These are the 24 spots I checked out while spending three days in Halifax.

Looking for something specific? Skip ahead!

1. Walk Along the Halifax Waterfront

The Halifax Waterfront is the heart of the city and one of the best places to start exploring.

The boardwalk stretches for several miles along the harbour.

lined with shops, restaurants, art installations, and plenty of spots to sit and take in the view.

I loved strolling past the historic buildings and just watching the boats move in and out of the harbour.

Whether you’re there during the day or catching the glow of the sunset, the Halifax waterfront has an energy that makes you feel instantly connected to the city.

2. Try Dessert at the Middle Spoon Desserterie

If you love sweets, you have to visit The Middle Spoon Desserterie & Bar in downtown Halifax.

Their menu is filled with decadent treats, and I couldn’t resist ordering the sticky toffee pudding! It was rich, warm, and absolutely worth it.

We paired our desserts with a couple of drinks, since the bar also serves creative cocktails.

Whether you’re ending a night out or just craving something indulgent, Middle Spoon is the perfect stop for dessert and drinks in Halifax.

3. Visit the Titanic Exhibit

One of the best things to do in Halifax is visit the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic. The Titanic exhibit was one of the main reasons I came here.

I couldn’t believe walking through the displays, seeing artifacts recovered from the wreck.

While also learning about Halifax’s role in the aftermath of the disaster.

It felt both haunting and moving to stand in front of pieces connected to such a well-known tragedy.

The museum gave me a whole new appreciation for the city’s maritime history.

4. Sip at Halifax’s Hidden Speakeasies

Halifax may be known for its pubs and waterfront. But I quickly learned the city also has a thriving speakeasy scene.

On my trip, I tracked down a few of these hidden bars tucked behind unmarked doors and staircases.

Each one had its own personality, too! From dessert-inspired cocktails to creative drinks that sparkled in the glass.

What I loved most was the thrill of finding them, since some even require a secret password.

If you’re looking for a night out that goes beyond the typical pub crawl, these speakeasies are some of the best places to drink in Halifax.

I visited Noble, The Drawing Room, and BKS Speakeasy!

Read my complete guide here on how to find them: The Best Speakeasies in Halifax & How to Find Them

5. Admire The Wave Sculpture

While walking the Halifax waterfront, I had to stop and see The Wave, the city’s famous sculpture.

It’s one of those quirky landmarks that everyone seems to climb for a photo. And of course I couldn’t resist snapping a few myself.

The bright blue curve against the harbour is playful and fun. It’s become one of Halifax’s most recognizable public art pieces.

Even if you don’t climb it, The Wave is worth stopping for as you make your way along the boardwalk.

6. Dine on the Waterfront at The Bicycle Thief

One of the best places to eat in Halifax is The Bicycle Thief! A popular waterfront restaurant that lives up to the hype.

We sat out on the waterfront patio, which came with amazing views and such a fun atmosphere.

I ordered the Tonnarelli Cacio e Pepe, made with fresh cracked black peppercorn, shaved black truffle, and pecorino romano. It was rich, flavorful, and absolutely worth it.

One detail I loved was how they brought out blankets once the evening turned chilly, making the whole experience cozy as well as delicious.

For me, The Bicycle Thief is one of the best restaurants in Halifax, whether you’re after pasta, wine, or just a memorable night by the water.

Book your reservation here!

7. Take a Ferry to Dartmouth

One of the easiest (and most scenic) ways to see Halifax from a different angle is by taking the Halifax to Dartmouth ferry.

The ride is a quick 15 minutes each way and only costs CAD $2.75 for a round trip, making it one of the best bargains in the city. From the water, I got some of the best views of the Halifax skyline.

Once you arrive in Dartmouth, you can walk around Ferry Terminal Park or grab a bite at The Wooden Monkey. Which makes the little trip across the harbour even more worthwhile.

8. Explore the Historic Properties

If you are visiting Halifax, you have to make a stop at the Historic Properties, a collection of restored 19th-century waterfront warehouses and buildings.

Walking through the cobblestone streets felt like stepping back in time, while still being surrounded by shops, restaurants, and little boutiques.

It’s a spot where history and modern Halifax meet. You can learn about the city’s past as a major trading port while also grabbing a bite or browsing local goods.

9. Take a Wine & Cheese Sunset Sail

The wine and cheese sunset sail is one of the best things to do in Halifax and easily my favorite activity of the trip.

We booked with J Farwell Sailing Tours and spent the evening out on the harbour aboard a small sailboat.

While we leaned back and watched the sun dip behind the city skyline, we were served four glasses of Nova Scotia wines paired with local cheeses.

The crew shared stories about Halifax and pointed out landmarks as we sailed, which made the whole experience feel both relaxing and informative.

Between the views, the wine, and the fresh air on the water, it was the perfect way to end a day in Halifax.

Book the same experience I had here!

10. Eat Gourmet Doughnuts at Vandal Doughnuts

If you love creative doughnuts, you have to visit Vandal Doughnuts in Halifax!

I stopped at their waterfront location right on the boardwalk and tried three flavors: the M&M, the Miso Cream with White Sesame, and the Crème Brûlée.

The Crème Brûlée was my absolute favorite! The crunchy sugar topping with the creamy filling was out of this world.

Vandal has two locations in the city, but being able to grab a doughnut and then sit by the harbour made the experience even better.

Between the playful flavors and the perfect boardwalk setting, it’s one of the most fun places to eat in Halifax.

11. Visit Halifax Citadel National Historic Site

If you love history, you have to visit the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site. Perched on a hilltop overlooking the city, the star-shaped fortress is both scenic and full of stories from Halifax’s past.

I walked through the old barracks, watched reenactors in full uniforms, and even heard the daily cannon fire echo across the harbour.

Exploring the site felt like stepping back in time, and it gave me a whole new appreciation for Halifax’s role in Canadian history.

12. Visit Alexander Keith’s Oldest Brewery

If you’re a beer lover, visiting Alexander Keith’s Brewery is one of the best things to do in Halifax. Founded in 1820, it’s one of the oldest breweries in North America and a big part of the city’s history.

Tours here are popular, and you’ll want to book in advance. By the time I arrived, they were completely sold out.

Luckily, the team at Alexander Keith’s still gave me a tasting ticket to enjoy at The Brown Hound Public House, just steps away from the brewery.

I tried the stout and it was so smooth and flavorful, the perfect introduction to their beers.

If you can snag a tour, absolutely do it, but if not, grabbing a pint nearby is a great way to still experience one of Halifax’s most historic breweries.

13. Admire the Street Art Along the Harbour

One of the surprises during my trip was how much street art there is along the Halifax harbour.

As I walked the waterfront, I spotted so many colorful murals! From a playful dog to boats and waves splashed across walls.

Each one added personality to the boardwalk and made the walk even more fun.

It’s worth slowing down and keeping your eyes open, because the murals are tucked between shops and piers.

They give Halifax a creative edge that goes beyond the historic buildings.

14. Enjoy Fresh Seafood at Sea Smoke

For a meal with one of the best views in Halifax, I stopped at Sea Smoke Restaurant & Bar for lunch right on the waterfront.

I couldn’t resist trying a few different dishes. The Digby scallops with jalapeño, mango, and cilantro were fresh and bright.

The Salmon + Smoke was one of my favorite dishes of my weekend trip to Halifax!

Featuring smoked salmon, leek, and cream cheese stuffed in cocoa butter cigars. It was such a creative mix of flavors.

And of course I had to try the Surf + Turf roll, packed with lobster and tenderloin slices topped with truffle aioli and crispy garlic.

Each plate looked as good as it tasted, and paired with the waterfront atmosphere, lunch here felt like a real highlight of my Halifax trip.

15. Watch the Sunset from the Waterfront

One of the simplest but best things I did in Halifax was watching the sunset from the waterfront.

As the sky shifted from soft gold to deep orange, the water reflected the colors, and the boardwalk filled with people slowed down to enjoy the view.

I loved how the boats drifted by, the city lights started to glow, and the whole harbour seemed to slow down for a moment.

It didn’t cost a thing, but it ended up being one of my favorite experiences of the trip.

16. Visit Halifax Public Gardens

If you’re looking for a quiet escape in the middle of the city, the Halifax Public Gardens are a must. You can wander through the Victorian-style gardens.

I couldn’t believe how peaceful it felt compared to the busy waterfront. The pathways wind past colorful flowerbeds, fountains, and even a bandstand that often hosts live music in the summer.

The gardens are free to enter, which makes them one of the best spots to experience a different side of Halifax.

17. Have a Date Night at Peacock Wine Bar

For a classy date night vibe on the Halifax waterfront, Peacock Wine Bar was one of my favorite dinner stops.

The wine list here is impressive, but what surprised me most were the creative, elevated cocktails that paired just as well with the food.

I ordered the homemade bucatini with mortadella, pea purée, pistachio, and oregano, along with the fried halibut cheek with gribiche and pickled daikon.

Both dishes were beautifully balanced, but the one thing I’m still thinking about is the focaccia with fermented chili butter .

Between the drinks, the food, and the waterfront location, Peacock Wine Bar felt like one of the best places in Halifax for a night out.

18. Browse the Halifax Seaport Farmers’ Market

One of my favorite places to wander in Halifax was the Seaport Farmers’ Market, located right along the waterfront.

It’s a mix of local vendors selling everything from fresh produce and baked goods to handmade crafts and souvenirs.

It’s also one of the oldest continuously operating farmers’ markets in North America, which makes it a piece of Halifax history as well as a fun stop.

19. Take a Day Trip to Peggy’s Cove

No trip to Halifax feels complete without a visit to Peggy’s Cove, one of the most iconic spots in Nova Scotia.

It’s only about a 45-minute drive from the city, and the highlight is the famous lighthouse perched on the rugged granite rocks.

I spent time walking along the shoreline, watching waves crash against the rocks, and taking in the views that make this one of the most photographed places in Canada.

The village itself is charming too, with colorful fishing boats and small shops to explore.

It’s an easy day trip from Halifax and absolutely worth it if you want that postcard-perfect East Coast scenery.

20. Test Your Luck at Casino Nova Scotia

After checking out some of Halifax’s cocktail bars, I decided to keep the night going with a stop at Casino Nova Scotia. Right on the waterfront, it’s a fun spot if you’re in the mood for some extra excitement.

The casino has it all! Slots, table games, live entertainment, and bars where you can grab another drink while you play. Even if you’re not a big gambler, the energy inside makes it a lively place to spend an evening in Halifax.

21. Spot the Atlantic Falcon on the Waterfront

One of the most unexpected things I came across on the Halifax waterfront was the Atlantic Falcon.

Brought in by Atlantic Falconry and Wildlife Services, the falcon helps keep the seagulls away so the boardwalk stays clean and healthy for visitors.

I loved stumbling across the bird! It’s not something you expect to see on a city harbor walk!

If you’re lucky, you might spot the falcon and its handler making the rounds, adding a little wildlife surprise to your time on the boardwalk.

22. Day Trip to Nova Scotia’s Wineries

Another amazing experience during my time in Nova Scotia was visiting the wineries in Wolfville and the Annapolis Valley.

The region is only about an hour and a half drive from Halifax, making it an easy day trip if you’re looking to explore beyond the city.

I actually spent an extra night here and hopped on the Magic Winery Bus, which takes you between several vineyards without having to worry about driving!

Read More: Magic Winery Bus Nova Scotia: Wine Tours by Double-Decker Bus

My favorite wineries I visited are Benjamin Bridge and Luckett Vineyards.

If you only have a day, you can still make the trip from Halifax by booking a guided wine tour.

I recommend the Halifax: Peggy’s Cove, Lunenburg, and Annapolis Valley Tour. That way, you can see a bit of everything!

The area is beautiful, with rolling hills and vineyard views, and it gave me a whole new appreciation for Nova Scotia wine.

23. Visit Halifax’s Pink Dessert Bar

Walking into Crème on the Halifax waterfront felt like stepping into a pink dream. Between the floral entrance, pastel tables, and whimsical interior, it’s as much about the atmosphere as it is about the food.

I tried one of their fruit-shaped mousse desserts that looked almost too real to eat — the peach mousse tasted just like the best peach pie I’ve ever had.

I also loved their handmade truffles and couldn’t resist ordering a pink chai latte to match the vibe.

Beyond sweets, Crème also serves cocktails and light bites, making it a fun stop for dessert or drinks.

Read more about my visit to Crème Halifax: The Dreamy Pink Dessert Bar You Need to Visit!

24. Explore Colourful Lunenburg

If you’re ready to head a bit further out, Lunenburg is an ideal day trip from Halifax. It takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes by car.

I loved strolling through this UNESCO World Heritage town, where the colorful houses, historic waterfront, and charming streets feel like a postcard come to life.

I visited the famous Bluenose II replica at the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic and grabbed ice cream by the harbour as the salty breeze rolled in.

Walking around, you see bright Colonial-style wooden homes that stand out against the blue water. It’s often praised as one of Nova Scotia’s prettiest towns.

If you don’t have a car, book this Halifax to Lunenburg Guided Tour!

Explore More of Canada

I did so much on my weekend getaway to Halifax, and I recommend all these activities to those visiting!

I also recommend hiking the Skyline Trail in Cape Breton Highlands National Park.

If you are heading from New Brunswick, Hike To The Ocean’s Floor: The Bay Of Fundy.

If you are visiting Quebec City, here are 32 Things to Do in Quebec City: Complete Guide with Day Trips.

For those visiting Montreal, check out The Best Speakeasies in Montreal & How To Find Them!.

Read all of my Canada Travel Guides!