24 hours in Halifax, Nova Scotia

If you are from outside of Canada, Nova Scotia might not strike you as the ideal holiday destination. If, however, you are a native to these parts then you will be more than aware of Nova Scotia’s rugged coastline, its charming little fishing villages and vibrant cities.

Regardless if you are born and raised in Canada or are just planning your next trip to the country, you could do little wrong than penciling in a visit to Nova Scotia. In this article we take you on a whistle stop tour of the province, showing you what you can enjoy in 24 hours there.

Read on to find out what the Bluenose Province has in store for you.

Morning Strolls in Halifax

The best way to start your day is with a morning stroll and a coffee and where better to do that then along Halifax’s famous waterfront boardwalk? The 19.2km boardwalk offers fantastic views over the harbor and has a ton of amenities alongside it.

Some of the best places to pick up a nice warm cup of coffee along your walk include Uncommon Grounds, Café Taiyaki 52 and the excellent Weird Harbor Espresso Bar which specializes in unique brews and delicious pastries. Located at 1656 Barrington Street, this minimalist café offers a cozy, industrial-chic vibe with custom wood accents and large windows. Known for its exceptional oat cortados and friendly service, it's a perfect stop for a quick yet delightful coffee experience. While seating is limited, the ambiance and quality make it a must-visit.

After you’ve satisfied your morning appetite and walked off the jet lag, it’s time to head off to the Halifax Seaport Farmers’ Market. Established back in 1750, this is the oldest market in North America and is not just worth a visit for the history, but also for the wide range of local treats and delicacies on offer.

After stocking up, it’s time to make the trip to the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site in the heart of downtown Halifax. From here you can learn about the military history of the city, visit the army museum and witness the 3rd Brigade of the Royal Artillery fire the Noon Gun.

Lunch With a British Vibe

The Mi’kmaq name for the original settlement in Halifax is Kjipuktuk which means Great Harbour, but the first European settlement in the region was named ‘The Town of Halifax’, after the 2nd Earl of Halifax – and not the small mill town in West Yorkshire.

It’s no wonder then that there is still a strong British connection in Halifax, so why not celebrate that by taking in lunch at The Henry House, a restaurant style on a traditional British pub.

The food serves local seafood, modern classics and a wide selection of British style ‘pub grub’ like beer battered fish & chips, shepherd’s pie and bangers & mash.

Perfect food to fill you up for an afternoon of fun.

Check Out Maud Lewis’s Finest Work

The Art Gallery of Nova Scotia, home to the preserved house of renowned folk artist Maud Lewis, is a unique cultural destination. It offers a deep dive into Canada’s artistic heritage, showcasing diverse exhibits from contemporary to historical art. Maud Lewis’s vibrantly painted home provides a rare, immersive look into the life and work of one of Nova Scotia’s most beloved artists. Visitors can explore her joyful, colorful world while appreciating the power of creativity despite adversity. With engaging exhibitions, educational programs, and local art, the gallery is an inspiring stop for art lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

Head To The Maritime Museum

The Maritime Museum of the Atlantic in Halifax, Nova Scotia, offers a compelling exploration of maritime history, with a notable focus on the RMS Titanic. The museum houses the world's largest collection of wooden artifacts from the Titanic, including a rare deck chair and a child's shoes that helped identify the "unknown child" victim. These items were recovered by Halifax-based cable ships like the MacKay-Bennett and Minia, which played a pivotal role in retrieving bodies after the sinking. The museum's exhibits provide a poignant insight into Halifax's significant connection to the Titanic tragedy.

Pay The Good Robot Brewing Co. A Visit – A Hidden Gem!

Good Robot Brewing Co., established in 2015, is a distinctive brewery located in Halifax’s North End. Known for its eclectic and unconventional approach to brewing, Good Robot crafts unique, award-winning beers that often incorporate foraged ingredients and playful themes. Their flagship location at 2736 Robie Street features a vibrant taproom, a cozy upstairs lounge called The MouseTrap, and a seasonal beer garden with AstroTurf seating. The brewery fosters an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere, hosting live music, comedy events, and community gatherings. Good Robot is also recognized for its social initiatives, including the Goodwill Partnership Program, which supports local non-profits. In 2022, they expanded operations to Elmsdale, Nova Scotia, with a state-of-the-art production facility, while maintaining their original Halifax taproom as a hub for community engagement and craft beer enjoyment.

An Evening of Spins and Twists

Despite the rise of online casinos in Canada – there are hundreds of providers on the best online casinos in Nova Scotia list – the good people of Halifax still enjoy spinning the reels and rolling the dice at their city’s land-based casino.

The Casino Nova Scotia is a purpose built, $100 million Las Vegas style casino in downtown Halifax overlooking the waterfront. Inside its plush, glamorous and glitzy and will give you the perfect opportunity to rest and unwind before the rest of your day is out.

Evening Food and a Show

With the day drawing to a close it’s time to head for supper at EDNA, a superb restaurant that uses local ingredients to cook up some of the tastiest food in the province. Seared scallops, the striploin or the mouth-watering squid tagliatelle all come highly recommended.

Afterwards head over to the Neptune Theatre to catch a show – do make sure you look ahead when booking your trip as tickets to shows and musicals sell out fast. The next big production coming this summer is the incredible Mamma Mia! which would be a perfect way to bookend your 24 hours in Nova Scotia.