Ask the insiders

ask the insiders EXPERT ADVICE

For the best visitor experience, ask the local experts, and no one knows a community better than the concierges who live and work there. That’s why we invited several local concierges, all members of the international Les Clefs d’Or association, to share their wisdom. Read on for their must-do Halifax experiences and meet the experts on page on page 15.

PHOTO: HALIFAX PUBLIC LIBRARIES AND NEW BROOKLYN MEDIA

CITY ESSENTIALS TREVOR PROUDE If you only had one day in Halifax, how would you spend it? Start with a cup of coffee at the coffee shop located on the top floor of the Halifax Public Library (page 16). It’s known as one of the most beautiful libraries in Eastern Canada. If it’s a Saturday, make your way to the Seaport Farmers’ Market (page 17), which opens at 7am. Vendors from all over Nova Scotia offer wine, cider, craft beer, cheese, produce, art, and crafts. The other option would be to make your way to Halifax Citadel National Historic Site (page 16) for the noon gun and changing of the guard. Visit the Army Museum (page 19) while you’re there. Then make your way to Argyle Street for some seafood at the highly recommended Five Fisherman (page 29) restaurant.

What’s one thing every visitor should know? Everything in the downtown can be done on foot. You don’t need a car unless you want to venture further afield. The city is full of shops, pubs, restaurants, museums, and some of the friendliest people in the world.

What are Halifax’s can’t-miss destinations? Explore the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic (page 20). Here you will learn about the history Halifax has with the Titanic and the tragic Halifax Explosion, which happened in 1917. This visit will prepare you for a journey to the North and West ends of the city where you will find the Titanic burial site at Fairview Cemetery and the Hydrostone Market, a stylish neighbourhood that rose from the ashes of the Halifax Explosion.

What’s your favourite day-trip itinerary? Venture towards the Annapolis Valley/Bay of Fundy area. Stop in along the way for a local brew and some great food for lunch at Schoolhouse Brewery (page 33) near Windsor—the birthplace of hockey, some say. Look online for the tide times for the famous “highest tides in the world.” In Halls Harbour, you can see the mighty tides’ effects and find lobster rolls and local art. It’s a wonderful scenic drive.

Halifax Central Library

Where can visitors find local jewelry? I recommend a place near the Hydrostone Market named Lady Luck Boutique. It’s a unique, beautiful store with friendly staff.

What’s your recommendation for a relaxed dinner with friends? If you want live music, try the local-favourite Economy Shoe Shop on Wednesday and Thursday evenings and Durty Nelly’s on Friday or Saturday nights. It also has my favourite fish and chips.

SPRING INTO ACTION TREVOR MacRAE What’s one experience every visitor to Halifax should have? The hill at Halifax Citadel (page 16) was chosen as the spot for a fort to protect Halifax in 1749, and it’s still a focal point for the city. Learn about the lives of Victorian-era soldiers, or even become a member of the 78th Highlanders for a day where you will be fitted for your uniform, practise drills, and learn how to fire an authentic Snider-Enfield rifle. They fire off a gun at noon every day, and also do spooky ghost tours.

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What are your favourite things to see and do in Halifax during the spring? Halifax ComedyFest runs April 22–23, with shows at various locations throughout the city. This festival highlights some of the best comedic talent in the country, including Mark Critch, Nikki Payne, Rod Man, Cathy Jones, Yumi Nagashima, and Gavin Crawford. And any time, the Harbour Hopper (page 66) offers an extremely fun way to see the city and learn about its history. This tour takes you by land and sea through the city’s historic sites. Explore the waterfront and historic downtown, while learning about the Halifax Explosion and the city’s Titanic connections.

Many visitors stay in the downtown. What other parts of the city should visitors be sure to explore? The North End of Halifax is home to many trendy bars and restaurants with fantastic and diverse menus. Also in the North End is the Hydrostone Market, which contains several eclectic shops and café s sure to delight all of your senses. If you are looking for the perfect souvenir to take home you will be sure to find something here.

If you only had one day in Halifax (during a spring visit) how would you spend it? I would begin by going to The Coastal Café on Robie Street for breakfast. It is by far one of the best spots for breakfast in the city. I would then continue on to the Halifax Central Library (page 16) on Spring Garden Road. The beautiful building offers something for everyone: a rooftop patio with stunning views of the harbour, a 300-seat theatre, two cafés, gaming stations, two music studios, and much more. Next I’d tour the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic (page 20) on Lower Water Street. This is Canada’s oldest and largest maritime museum, housing many relics of Canada’s naval past. There are displays about Second World War convoys, the Battle of the Atlantic, and the Halifax Explosion. A day would not be complete without taking a tour of the Alexander Keith’s

PHOTO: ©PARCS CANADA. TOUS DROITS RÉSERVÉS. / PARKS CANADA. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Halifax Citadel National Historic Site

Nova Scotia Brewery (page 32), also on Lower Water Street. It is one of the oldest working breweries in North America.

Where should visitors go to find distinctive locally made gifts? NovaScotian Crystal (page 17), which has been in operation for more than 20 years, is Canada’s only maker of mouth-blown, hand-cut crystal, and one of the very few in the world. This makes it an extremely distinct local gift for that special someone. From the original design to the mouth-blown shape to the hand-cut pattern, every piece is unique and bears the mark of the maker.

What restaurants do you recommend for a romantic dinner for two? The Press Gang (page 25) is located in the heart of downtown in one of the city’s oldest historic stone buildings. It offers some exceptional dishes along with a well-stocked local-oyster bar. Another that I enjoy is Chives Canadian Bistro (page 25) on Barrington Street. It has some incredible food and if you have a chance to dine in The Vault, you have to take it; this private room offers an intimate

dining experience in a vault left over from when a bank occupied the space.

SUMMER SPLENDOUR ANGELA O’BRIEN What’s one thing every first-time visitor to Halifax should know? Be ready for the booming sound of the Noon Gun, a local tradition for over 200 years. Every day gunners dressed in 1869 uniforms fire a cannon at Halifax Citadel National Historic Site (page 16) to mark noon. This is a tribute to Halifax’s history as a major British military stronghold and a mustsee site for anyone visiting Halifax.

What are your favourite things to see and do in Halifax during the summer? Point Pleasant Park (page 18) has my favourite summer walking trails with ocean views and forested rambles. It’s great for a morning stroll or a run. And don’t miss the Wines on the Water Tour aboard the tall ship Silva (page 67). This includes a two-hour sail of Halifax Harbour, wine tastings from Luckett Vineyard (page 35) with food paired to each wine. Local musicians perform live.

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What’s your recommendation for a summer day-trip destination? Drive to Lunenburg, a small fishing village about an hour from Halifax. The town has preserved its historical look with its charming painted wooden homes and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s a great place to stroll and explore local shops. End your day with dinner at the Grand Banker Bar & Grill, which boasts fresh local seafood and a waterfront view.

If you only had one day in Halifax, how would you spend it? My summer day would start with a coffee at The Old Apothecary on Lower Water Street, and then a stroll down the beautiful Halifax waterfront. I suggest stopping by for an afternoon tour of the Halifax Distillery (page 35) and learn how it crafts its JD Shore rum. No tour is complete without a tasting! For dinner my all-time favourite is da Maurizio’s (page 25). It has great Italian food and excellent service in a romantic setting. I highly recommend the gnocchi.

Where should visitors go to find distinctive locally made gifts? Jennifer’s of Nova Scotia on Spring Garden Road carries unique handcrafted products

relaxing in the gardens with a good book. They’re open daily from 7:30am until 30 minutes before sunset.

Stubborn Goat Beer Garden

PHOTO: SCOTT MUNN

from Atlantic Canadian artisans that are great gifts for anyone on your list. Choose from a selection of delectable handmade Jill’s Chocolates or body care products by Om Made Soap.

What family-friendly activities do you suggest for a rainy day? Halifax’s hands-on Discovery Centre (page 20) on the waterfront is a great place to spend a rainy day with the kids. Interactive exhibits teach fun lessons about science, technology, engineering, arts and math that appeal to all ages. Your next stop is The Board Room Game Café (page 24), which has hundreds of games available to play.

MORE SUMMER FUN ROGER POIRIER What’s one thing every first-time visitor to Halifax should know? A first time visitor should visit the Halifax Public Gardens (page 17). This is one of North America’s original Victorian public gardens. Take a stroll and enjoy the many flowers, trees, fountains, and statues. Grab a coffee in the café and listen to live music from the bandstand on Sunday afternoons in summer. You can easily spend a few hours What are your favourite things to see and do in Halifax in summer? The Halifax waterfront is a must. Walk along the boardwalk, which runs between Casino Nova Scotia (page 30) and Point Pleasant Park (page 18) to take in the sights and sounds or a bustling waterfront, as you watch many different ships sail by, from small sailboats to naval vessels and some of the world’s largest cruise and cargo ships. Next take a break at the many restaurants and pubs and enjoy their patios. Relax, have a drink, and enjoy the sun. Lastly I enjoy taking a ride on the Halifax Transit (page 8) ferry to Dartmouth. For $2.75 (each way) you can get great pictures of Halifax, the Macdonald Bridge, and Dartmouth.

What’s an essential day-trip destination? If you’re going to do a day trip outside of Halifax, you need to visit Peggy’s Cove (page 63). This iconic symbol of Nova Scotia is only an hour’s drive from downtown. Climb the granite boulders to the lighthouse for the perfect pictures or selfies (but avoid the slippery black rocks and obey the posted safety instructions— ocean waves are dangerous, even on calm-seeming days). Stroll in the village and explore the artisan shops. Stop by the Sou’wester Restaurant (page 29) for fresh lobster, fish and chips, seafood chowder, or home-style gingerbread.

If you only had one summer day in Halifax, how would you spend it? I’d stay downtown. There is so much to see and do there. Starting from the Historic Properties (page 17) and heading south along the waterfront, you’ll find many shops and museums along the way. You can take a harbour cruise (pages 66–67), grab a bite or a drink at the many restaurants (page 23) and pubs (page 30) or play beach volleyball at the Sands at Salter. If you like shopping, Spring Garden Road is the place to be.

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Plenty of chain and local shops line the road on your way to the Halifax Public Gardens (page 17), which have no admission fee and are open daily. On your way back downtown, stop by the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site (page 16) and take in the downtown views from The Old Town Clock (page 17).

What’s your favourite spot to sample a local beverage? The Stubborn Goat Beer Garden (page 31) at Summit Plaza on the waterfront is my summer favourite. It has a wide variety of local craft beers—plus cider, wine, and soft drinks—to sample while you enjoy the great view of Halifax Harbour on the multi-level deck. In the evenings, there’s live music. When the weather is less cooperative, I like Garrison Brewing (page 32) on Marginal Road. You can tour the brewery and sample the wide variety of beers made on site.

What does Halifax have to offer sports fans this summer? The city’s hometown soccer heroes, the Canadian Premier League’s Hfx Wanderers FC (page 49) are in their second season. They play at the Wanderers Grounds near the Halifax Common (page 17). Canada’s top soccer league features local rising-stars and international veterans. Once the game is over, it’s a short stroll downtown for dinner and drinks.

AUTUMN ADVENTURES TODD YOUNG What are your favourite things about fall in Halifax? One of the most beautiful places in the Greater Halifax area, and one of the best parks in my opinion is Shubie Park (page 18) in Dartmouth. The park boasts 16 hectares of pristine woodland intersected by trails where the fall colours absolutely surround you. You can also kayak/canoe the Shubenacadie Canal system that runs through the park and the Dartmouth area. The park itself is located between Micmac and Charles lakes (which both have great beaches). Flex Water Sports Rentals offers canoes, kayaks, and paddle boards for rent at Shubie Park in Dartmouth. The rental fee is $20/hour (at press time). Call to book at 902-410-3684. (Cash only.) There is nothing quite like travelling the canals while the sights and smells of autumn embrace you. You’re likely to see wildlife and the route is absolutely beautiful. Pack a picnic and spend an early autumn afternoon on an adventure for the record books.

What are the season’s can’t-miss events? The three local attractions that every Halifax visitor should see in autumn. 1. The Nocturne art festival (late October). This one-night festival showcases local talents with interactive art, performance pieces, paintings, sculptures, and more at free

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venues throughout the city. 2. The HalCon sci-fi, comics, and gaming convention (usually late October) is another favourite. It boasts a star-studded parade of guest speakers, costume contests, and vendors. 3. Now in its 29th year, the Halifax Pop Explosion (Oct. 21–24) showcases bands and talent from all over the world. Stages around the city host established and emerging musical talents.

What route do you suggest for an autumn day trip? Harvest time in Nova Scotia means a visit to the lush Annapolis Valley. Any number of U-pick orchards are open, and you’ll find harvest festivals and a multitude of farmers’ markets showcasing the best produce in this part of the world. I always enjoy the Pumpkin People festival in Kentville. The historic town in the heart of the Valley is always a lovely stop but it has extra charm when it’s filled with Pumpkin People of every shape, size and description, from the spooky to the hilarious.

What tips do you have for visitors exploring downtown Dartmouth? This waterfront neighbourhood has revitalized over the last few years. It is now home to a popular and vibrant culinary scene and is full of unique shops, restaurants and cafés. The best way to explore downtown Dartmouth is to take a Halifax Transit ferry ride from to Alderney Landing, where you’ll find a weekend farmers’ market offering fresh meat, seasonal vegetables, baked goods, and crafts from around the region. Then

Art Gallery of Nova Scotia

PHOTO: TOURISM NOVA SCOTIA / DEAN CASAVECHIA

make your way up Portland Street to grab lunch at one of the amazing neighbourhood restaurants like The Canteen (22 Portland St.) or grab a local craft beer, cider, or mead and relax at New Scotland Brewing Company (91 Alderney Dr.).

FALL FOR HALIFAX DIANE MUNROE What are attractions that every Halifax visitor should see in autumn? Visit the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site (page 16) for a ghost tour. Go to the top of Citadel Hill and explore spooky tunnels and prison cells. You will hear bone chilling stories of true events that took place in “Canada’s most haunted historic site.” And down on the waterfront, explore Halifax Seaport Farmers’ Market, the new home of North Americas’ oldest farmers market. Here you can experience fresh local produce, fresh baked goods, handmade crafts, and much more.

Where should visitors go to experience distinctive local cuisine? Halifax is a melting pot of cultures and backgrounds. One thing that we all have in common is the ocean. That means unforgettable seafood is a staple. Bar Kismet (page28) offers a seasonal menu showcasing local ingredients. Paired with amazing drinks with enticing names such as “Spreading Half Truths” or “Unsolicited Advice,” dining at Bar Kismet is an experience.

What should art lovers know about Halifax? The East Coast is known for its art and music scene. The Art Gallery Of Nova Scotia (page 22) is amazing—a huge permanent collection and regular touring exhibitions. But you’ll find lots of treasures in the city’s many smaller galleries too. Don’t miss Studio 21 (page 22), a 30-year veteran of the local scene, on Doyle Street. Argyle Fine Art (page 22) on Barrington Street is always enticing and is one of the cities most progressive galleries. For Local Art, the Art Zone Gallery located at 5755 Young Street (Above the Humani-T Café’) showcases only local artists so if you are in search of something to showcase in your home or to remember an adventure in our fair city, Art Zone is definitely worth a stop.

What’s your recommendation for an autumn day-trip destination? Noggins Farm in Annapolis Valley. Bring the entire family to Greenwich for the day! Here you can have a fun day picking apples, pears, and cherries; walk through corn mazes and even take in a hayride. After a day at Noggins you will be sure to have a good night’s rest!

What are the essential destinations for visitors exploring downtown Dartmouth? Hop on the Halifax Transit ferry and land at the Alderney Landing market. It features great vendors selling local made preserves, arts/ crafts, and baked goods every weekend. Nearby Celtic Corner (page 30) has great food and entertainment. It hosts a variety of musicians playing our favourites from Ireland, Scotland, England, and the Maritimes. It’s a fun spot for an evening with friends. Also in Dartmouth, you’ll find Portland Street Creperie; from sweet to spicy, they have crêpes for everybody.

Where can visitors go to find distinctive local cuisine? Five Fishermen (page 29) on Argyle Street has been a Halifax favourite for many years. It’s known for exquisite Nova Scotian seafood and AAA steaks. It offers casual and private dining.

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What restaurants do you suggest for an enjoyable dining experience for families? Five Guys (page 24) on Argyle Street is new to Halifax and open daily. Starting in Washington, D.C. and exploding across the U.S., Five Guys has made it to Halifax and is serving up lots of juicy burgers with all the toppings you can fit! The atmosphere screams family and it is a must-stop place this season.

WINTER WONDERLAND IAN CHEVERIE What’s one experience every visitor to Halifax should have? For a truly unique and elevated experience, I recommend visiting The Barrington (page 28) steakhouse and oyster bar. It’s a comfortable and stylized atmosphere, with incredible seafood, and of course, steak.

What are your three favourite things to see and do in Halifax during winter? Continuing with another fantastic culinary experience (why not enjoy comfort food during the cold winter months!) also visit The Gahan House (page 32), at its new location in the Nova Centre. It offers upscale pub food and amazing craft brews. I also enjoy the professional theatrical productions at Neptune Theatre (page 49) and a major-junior Halifax Mooseheads (page 49) hockey game at Scotiabank Centre.

If you only had one winter day in Halifax, how would you spend it? Make your one day in Halifax as knowledgepacked as you can! After visiting the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic (page 20) and Art Gallery of Nova Scotia (page 22), save some time to go to the Discovery Centre (page 20). It includes exhibits, galleries, innovation labs, and the Dome Theatre, where you can marvel at the wonders of the world and beyond!

PHOTO: TOURISM NOVA SCOTIA / DEAN CASAVECHIA

Halifax Seaport Farmers’ Market

Where should visitors go to discover local art? The Art Gallery of Nova Scotia (page 22) contains over 17,000 works of art in its varied collection, including classical portraits, Nova Scotian folk art, and Inuit stone carvings.

What does Halifax have to offer music fans this winter? Continue to celebrate East Coast culture at one of the pubs offering and toe-tapping music: the Old Triangle (page 31), Durty Nelly’s (page 30), or the Stubborn Goat (page 31).

COOL CITY PENNY CAMERON What’s one experience every visitor should have? Over 1.5 million immigrants and refugees came to Canada through Pier 21, today the site of the Canadian Museum of Immigration (page 20). Halifax became known as the “Gateway to Canada.” Pier 21 welcomed troops, war brides, and displaced persons following the Second World War from Britain, Italy, Germany, and the Netherlands. Pier 21 became a National Historic Site of Canada in 1997 because of its major role in 20th century immigration to Canada. Atlantic Canada’s only national museum houses an amazing collection of books, films, photographs, and documents telling the story of immigration through the years.

What are your favourite things to do in Halifax during winter? The skating Oval at the Halifax Common (page 17) has the skating area of three

NHL hockey rinks. Helmets, skates, sleds, and snowshoes are available to rent (free with valid ID). The Oval is open until 11 p.m. Another favourite Halifax pastime is a winter walk or hike around beloved Point Pleasant Park, acres of forest leading down to beautiful ocean views and crisp sea air. It’s on the southern tip of the Halifax peninsula and has well marked woodland and seaside trails.

What are the essential destinations for dedicated shoppers visiting Halifax? Don’t miss the upstairs area of the Halifax Seaport Farmers’ Market (page 17), which houses some amazing local artisans selling art, jewelry, hardwood products, and uniquely Nova Scotian products. Jennifer’s of Nova Scotia on Spring Garden Road is a great spot to find local folk art, art glass, pewter, and pottery. Other unique Nova Scotian shops include NovaScotian Crystal, Amos Pewter, Argyle Fine Art, Biscuit General Store and Inkwell Handmade Boutique.

Where should visitors go for a decadent dessert? The Middle Spoon (page 24) on Barrington Street remains a popular spot for a range of delicious desserts coupled with delightful and creative cocktails. LF Bakery on Gottingen Street is a very popular local venue for the very best croissants and French pastries coupled with delicious coffee. And for cheesecake, Sweet Hereafter on Quinpool Road continue to get rave reviews for the very best rich and luscious cheesecakes.

the experts

MEET THE MEMBERS OF LES CLEFS D’OR WHO SHARED THEIR EXPERTISE.

ANGELA O’BRIEN is senior executive host at Casino Nova Scotia on Upper Water Street. She graduated from Saint Mary’s University and is a professional affiliate with Les Clefs d’Or Canada, which has provided her great opportunities for creating partnerships within the hospitality community.

TREVOR MacRAE is an executive host at Casino Nova Scotia. He graduated from Dalhousie University and is a professional affiliate with Les Clefs d’Or Canada.

PENNY CAMERON is the regional secretary for Les Clefs d’Or Atlantic Region and was the first female concierge in the region to receive her Golden Keys. She is part of the concierge team at Parkland at the Gardens, a retirement residence in Halifax.

ROGER POIRIER has been in the hotel industry for close to 25 years, and is a concierge at the Delta by Marriott Beausejour Hotel in Moncton, New Brunswick. He’s a frequent visitor to Halifax.

Born and raised in Charlottetown, IAN CHEVERIE has been creating special experiences for guests for over six years at The Great George Hotel, Charlottetown’s only luxury historic boutique hotel.

DIANE MUNROE has been in the service industry for the past 25 years. Starting out in guest services at the Keltic Lodge (Ingonish Beach, N.S.) Diane is now the Resident Services Manager at Bishop’s Landing and a active affiliate of Les Clefs d’Or Atlantic.

TODD YOUNG is lead concierge for Southwest Properties. With the company for eight years, he’s had the benefit of watching Halifax, and its culinary and art scenes, grow. He enjoys sharing his experiences and knowledge and showcasing the city whenever he can. TREVOR PROUDE is head concierge at The Hollis Halifax—A Doubletree Suites by Hilton. He is a musician and limousine chauffeur, and regional director for Les Clefs d’Or Atlantic.