HALIFAX’S TOP FIVE
Halifax is the largest Canadian city east of Quebec. It’s a university town with a hip, vibrant energy and a dynamic culinary scene served with a side of local music. Haligonians proudly boast the honour of having more pubs per capita than any other Canad
Argyle St.
Gourmands seeking yummy pub fare and frothy local beer gravitate toward Argyle St. Colourful rows of restaurants and pubs line the street, emblazoned with funky playful names such as the Economy Shoe Shop, the Toothy Moose and the Foggy Goggle. The Carlton is housed in the oldest residential building in Halifax, dating to 1759. It serves as a fantastic venue to hear some local musicians.
Citadel Hill
Citadel Hill is a commanding fortification, nestled high on a hill, where it was used by the British to secure the harbour. Its ramparts provide a fabulous view of the city skyline. Inside the fortress walls, you can step back in time by exploring the labyrinth of barracks and rooms, with their impressive stone structure. Soldiers in traditional uniform keep watch, and each day the “noon day gun” is fired, reverberating across the city as it has done every day since 1749.
Halifax Boardwalk
Halifax’s three-kilometre boardwalk runs along the lovely waterfront. Strolling past several tall ships with their masts swaying to the saltwater breeze conjures a feeling of a bygone era. Oysters, lobster rolls and fish tacos are all served at the food stands along the boardwalk. Off in the distance is George’s Island and the historic lighthouse that juts out across the harbour. The island has a long, sordid history, even serving as a prison for thousands of French sailors in the mid-17th century.
Halifax Central Library
Halifax knows a thing or two about libraries, considering the first public library in Canada was the Halifax Citizens Free Library, established in 1864. Halifax’s newest library had a hefty price tag of $57.6 million, but it’s no wonder that the creative vision behind the unique design is being well received across the globe. The library boasts two cafés, music studios, a 300-seat auditorium, and of course books — lots of them. Even the outside design creates the illusion of a stack of books.
Halifax-Dartmouth Ferry
The Halifax-Dartmouth Ferry is the oldest continuously operating saltwater ferry in North America (begun in 1752), and the second oldest in the world. For a mere $2.50, passengers can take in a stunning view of the Halifax skyline and the impressive navy ships docked in the harbour. The 12-minute ferry crossing ends in downtown Dartmouth. Dusk is a magical time to take the ferry when the sun goes down over the MacDonald Bridge, casting golden hues across the harbour.