This Guide Belongs to:
Stay Safe and Healthy in Halifax
Safety first! Your grown-ups will probably want to have a look at this page. Fill in the information before heading out to explore.
Hospitals
Halifax is home to a wonderful children’s hospital called the IWK Health Centre, located on University Avenue. They have an emergency department and a wide range of other departments to help your sick or injured child.
Police Station
The Halifax Regional Police Headquarters is located on Gottingen Street, between Downtown Halifax and the North End. For in-person assistance, visit this location. In an emergency, call 911.
Pharmacies
If you require a prescription or medication, there are many pharmacies across the region, including Lawtons Drugs, Shoppers Drug Mart, Sobeys Pharmacy, and more.
Walk-Ins
If you need a walk-in doctor immediately, visit this website: ns.skipthewaitingroom.com/city/halifax
Important Numbers
Emergency Phone: 911
Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868
Halifax Police (non-emergency): 902-490-5020
Health Information (non-emergency): 811
Health Information Hearing Impaired (non-emergency): 711
Halifax Transit Schedules and Services: 311
Fill This Out in Case You Get Lost
Guardian’s name: Guardian’s phone number: Location your group/family is staying:
Viviana Varela
SENIOR
Lyndsay Belair
ILLUSTRATORS
Lyndsay Belair, Aaron Googoo, Janna Wilton
SPECIAL
Holly Chessman, Maggie Duffy, Mallori Inzinga, Riaz Oozeer, Adriana Santiago, and Thomas Scott
We Love Our Region and Our Planet
Did you know that all the ink used to create this guide is vegetable-based AND the paper is recyclable? As you discover the Halifax region, we encourage you to do what you can to leave no trace, or better yet, leave the place better than you found it! We hope you will either hang onto this guide forever, or when you are finished with it, recycle it, or pass it along to someone else.
Land Acknowledgment
Halifax is in Mi’kma’ki, the ancestral and unceded territory of the Mi’kmaq people. The people of the Mi’kmaw Nation have lived on this territory for millennia, and we acknowledge them as the past, present, and future caretakers of this land.
What is a land acknowledgment? Historically, a land acknowledgment is a traditional practice shared among Indigenous groups to recognize the Indigenous land and territory they are visiting. Today, a land acknowledgment remains a way to express gratitude to the Indigenous people for being stewards of the land where we live and work, and to remind us that we are all treaty people.
MI’KMAQ EIGHT-POINT STAR
The eight-point star is a cultural symbol of the Mi’kmaq people. Many Mi’kmaq artists use the star to decorate drums, blankets, moccasins, and baskets. The four colours represent harmony and unity between all people. They also represent the four directions:
WHITE (WAPEK) = NORTH (OQWATN) wah-behg = ohk-wa-den
RED (MEKWEK) = EAST (UKJIPN) meh-kwehg = uk-chi-ben
BLACK (MAQTEWEK) = SOUTH (KP’TE’SN) mahq-tew-ehg = ek-pe-dee-sen
YELLOW (WATAPTEK) = WEST (TK’SN) wah-tahp-tehg = et-ke-sen
Halifax is the capital city of Nova Scotia. It is located on the East Coast of Canada on the Atlantic Ocean. The region is known formally as the Halifax Regional Municipality (or HRM), but to keep things simple, we just call it Halifax. Kjipuktuk is the Mi’kmaq way of saying “Great Harbour”.
The Mi’kmaq (meeg-maw) are the Indigenous people of Mi’kma’ki (meeg-maw-gi), an area that encompasses Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, Newfoundland, parts of the Gaspé Peninsula, Québec, and Maine. Archaeological findings have shown evidence of Mi’kmaw presence in and around the area for more than ten thousand years.
Whether we realize it or not, everyone in the land we know as Nova Scotia is travelling over and through ancestral Mi’kmaw places, and we do it every day.
Learn more at mikmaqonline.org
Nipmane'katik
Kwipew
Upper Sackville possibly "head of the tide"
Maqoqpejk
Alusulue'katik
Lower Sackville at the measles place
Kwipek Bedford meaning uncertain
Kitpukusisek
Mill Cove at the eagle's nest
Asoqmapskiajk Bedford Basin at the rocky crossing
Kuowa'qmiktuk Camp Hill at the pine grove
We'kwaltijk
Nme'jukatik
Shad Bay place of the fish
Nespa'taqnk
Prospect place where an herb is mixed with tobacco
Etu'panuek
Klujjiewpe'jk
Milpe'jk
Tqoskwe'jk
Asoqmasukwita'mk
A'sukwitk Lawrencetown meeting of waters
Tapuisimkek
Kjikujikwitk
Musk ɨ to'pukwek Musquodoboit
flowing out to a wide
Sesetkuk East Chezzetcook flowing rapidly
Sesetkuk Chezzetcook Head flowing rapidly
Kul'pijuik
Kul'pijuik
Mi’kmaq Word Guide
Mesi'paqnuk
Hello = kwe’ gway
Nme'kaqnuk
Welcome = pjila’si gee-la-see (translation: you are welcome)
See you again = n’multes nem-ool-tes
The Mi’kmaq language doesn’t have a word for goodbye, it is always, I’ll see you.
Thank you = we’la’lin weh-lah-lin (translation: you do something good for me)
I love you = kesalul ge-sa-lul
My name is _____ = n’in teluisi _____ neen deh-loo-wisi
To learn more about the Mi’kmaq language, go to kinu.ca.
DID YOU KNOW: Traditionally, the Mi’kmaw people do not see land as something to own; it is seen as a responsibility bestowed by the Creator.
Special thanks to NSITE’N for their support in the creation of this content.
The Story of Waltes
Once, an old man and an old woman prayed for a child. Their prayers were finally answered, and they were blessed with a baby boy. They loved him dearly and taught him all they knew. But one day, their son fell ill and passed away. The old man mourned deeply, gathered other men and embarked on a journey to the Land of Souls to bring his son back.
After many moons, the old man and his companions reached the gate to the Land of Souls. The gatekeeper, moved by the old man’s love for his son, offered him a chance: “If you can beat me at Waltes, I’ll allow you to bring your son’s spirit back home.”
And so began Waltes, a traditional Mi’kmaw game of chance passed down through generations for over 500 years. According to legend, the game was so much fun, and the dice landed with such a loud thud that the vibrations travelled to the spirit world, capturing their attention and earning their favour for this captivating game.
What is Waltes?
Waltes is more than just a game; it’s a piece of Mi’kmaw culture, history, and art. Played with two to four players at a time, it’s a fun game of chance that can last minutes, hours, or even days. The game hones counting skills, and the goal is to score points based on how the dice land on each turn. Each dice represents a different Mi’kmaw worldview that we live in:
1. Lampqamuk (The Underground World): Representing the spirits buried beneath us.
2. Kimitknaq (The Earth World): The place where we were born.
3. Muskun (The Sky World): Where the sun, moon, clouds and stars reside.
4. Mestawu’lk (The Universe World): Encompassing everything that exists.
5. Lampok (The Water World): Representing rivers, lakes, and oceans.
6. Jijaqamijue’kati (The Spirit World): A sacred realm where spirits dwell.
The Waltes bowl symbolizes the seventh world, Muskopi (The Womb of Mother Earth), where all these worlds come together and rest.
Why Play Waltes?
Waltes is not just about winning; it’s about connecting with Mi’kmaw heritage, culture, storytelling, and language and enjoying quality time together. It’s a way to honour the past and celebrate the present! Gather your friends and family and let the spirit of friendly competition guide you.
Can’t Wait to Play?
Head over to Sipekne’katik Treaty Truckhouse, a shop on the Halifax Waterfront that offers handcrafted Indigenous items, including the Waltes game. Enjoy the magic of this beloved Mi’kmaw tradition!
Want to Know More?
Scan this QR code to watch a fantastic video about the story and rules of Waltes!
Treaty Truckhouse - Salt Yard
Special thanks to NSITE’N, Sunshine Paul-Martin, Sipekne’katik Treaty Truckhouse and Illustrator, Aaron Googoo for their support in the creation of this content.
Discover Indigenous Culture in Kjipuktuk
This Is What
I Wish You Knew Museum of Natural History, in partnership with the Mi’kmaw Native Friendship Centre This exhibition explores Indigenous self-identity through the work of 50 Halifax urban Indigenous community members. The participants carved and painted their personal stories onto fourteen rectangular clay tiles.
Fortress Halifax
Halifax Citadel
National Historic Site
Featuring paintings, maps, and stories from diverse perspectives—including British, French, Mi’kmaq, Black Loyalists, and Acadians—Fortress Halifax invites you to explore the history of the city and the land it was built on.
Ta’n me’j Tel-keknuo’ltiek: How Unique We Still Are Maritime Museum of the Atlantic
Discover the powerful bond between the Mi’kmaw people and their ancestral lands and waters. Explore personal stories, unique artifacts, and meaningful artwork.
Ta’n a’sikatikl sipu’l | Confluence Art Gallery of Nova Scotia
This exhibit delves into the themes of connection and exchange. It features works by contemporary Mi’kmaq artists, including paintings, sculptures, textiles, and historic artifacts from the gallery’s collection.
Halifax Regional Municipality
Peggy’s Cove Coastal Region
Halifax Regional Municipality (HRM) is the capital of Nova Scotia, and the largest municipality in Atlantic Canada. It is made up of more than 200 unique communities in nine regions ranging from Hubbards in the Peggy’s Cove Coastal Region, all the way up to Ecum Secum on the Eastern Shore.
More than 500,000 people live in the Halifax Regional Municipality.
Did you know that Upper Musquodoboit is home to Nova Scotia’s largest wooden playground?
Things to Do In Each Region
Eastern Shore
Airport Area
Zoom over to the Airport Area, where planes take off and land. See if you can spot one in the sky!
Bedford-Sackville
Visit Bedford-Sackville’s heart-shaped pond and watch the ducks. You might even spot a frog on a lily pad.
Dartmouth-Cole Harbour
Dartmouth, known as the City of Lakes, is home to the Sullivan’s Pond geese. These local celebrities are often spotted leisurely waddling across the street at a crosswalk, where traffic patiently stops to let them pass.
Downtown Halifax
Stroll through Downtown Halifax and explore the Public Gardens, a cool park with birds, beautiful trees, and flowers. Then explore the Halifax Waterfront, full of interesting things to see and do.
Eastern Shore
Head to the Eastern Shore to spend a day at the beach! Build a sandcastle or maybe give surfing a try.
Musquodoboit Valley
Take a drive to the Musquodoboit Valley, where you’ll see farms and animals. Keep your eyes peeled for shaggy Highland cows!
The Halifax Regional Municipality occupies 5,490 square kilometres, which is about the same size as Prince Edward Island!
North End Halifax
Learn more about Halifax in this historic and vibrant neighbourhood, full of colourful houses, cool murals, interesting parks, and cozy cafés.
Peggy’s Cove Coastal Region
Visit the iconic Peggy’s Point Lighthouse, climb the giant rocks, and explore the tidal pools! Have fun at one of the many beaches in the region, and don’t forget to try a lobster roll!
West End Halifax
Walk along Quinpool Road, grab a bite, and see lots of amazing murals. Then, check out the Dingle Tower, climb to the top, and enjoy the stunning view.
(April 1 - October 31)
Why does everyone in Halifax know Gus? Oh, you haven’t heard? He’s a total shellebrity!
Things to Do in Central Halifax
Skate year-round on the Emera Oval. Skaters can borrow inline and roller skates, bikes, and scooters during the summer months, and ice skates throughout the winter. Helmets are mandatory when using the Emera Oval and can be brought from home or borrowed for free. To borrow equipment, you must present a government-issued photo ID.
Note: The Emera Oval offers accessible washrooms, accessible parking, adaptive equipment, and wheelchair access on the outside lane of the skating surface only.
Swim at the Halifax Common Aquatics Facility! Opened in 2023, this modern facility is free to access and features a 25-metre, five-lane outdoor pool, three climbing walls, a beach-style entry with play features, and spacious universal change rooms. The pool offers adaptive equipment, including lifejackets, pool lift, and an aquatic wheelchair.
Meet Gus, the 102-year-old Gopher Tortoise at the Museum of Natural History. If the weather is nice, you can find Gus out for a stroll in the museum’s backyard. On cold or rainy days, he likes to explore the museum galleries. Gus’ favourite foods are organic romaine lettuce, clover, dandelions, bananas, and he enjoys a nice treat of juicy berries.
Browse the books at Woozles Children’s Bookstore.
As Canada’s oldest bookstore for kids, Woozles is a beloved Halifax institution. They celebrate their 47th birthday on October 14, 2025!
Grab a snack and enjoy a picnic on the Commons. In the summer, spread out a picnic blanket and cool off with a scoop of Dee Dee’s Ice Cream or try Halifax’s treat—a donair—from Tony’s Famous Donair. In the winter, stay warm with a hot chocolate from Café Lara or a hearty sandwich from Luke’s Small Goods, perfect for fueling your park adventures.
Atlantic Ocean Creatures
Down
1. This predator can have tentacles longer than the length of a blue whale.
2. A marine snail often found in tidal pools.
3. This creature has a hard shell and pincers. Some species are known as invaders in Nova Scotia waters.
4. This creature can live over 100 years. It is famous for its “crusher” and “pincer” claws.
5. This fish, commonly found in Nova Scotia waters, is known for its mild flavour and is often used in fish and chips.
Across
6. This fast-growing seaweed provides shelter for many creatures.
7. This creature has dozens of tiny blue eyes and swims by clapping its shells together.
8. These large marine mammals visit Nova Scotian waters during the summer.
9 This creature can regrow its arms.
10. This fish has a special chin barbel to help it find food.
11. A spiky creature that lives on the ocean floor.
Your destination for educational fun. Explore the wonders of science with four jam-packed floors and the Dome Theatre!
thediscoverycentre.ca | 1215 Lower Water St., Halifax, NS
Did you know that Halifax is home to one of the world’s longest downtown boardwalks?
Discover the Halifax Waterfront
The Halifax Waterfront is a beautiful place to visit. Walk the boardwalk from end to end to discover delicious treats, cool murals, and boats of every shape and size!
PARKING
Are your grown-ups looking for a place to park? Look out for the symbol on Lower Water Street!
Georges Island
Kid-Friendly Places in Dartmouth & Beyond
Punamu’kwati’jk is the Mi’kmaq name for the area known as Dartmouth. It means, ‘at the tomcod place’. (a tomcod is a type of fish!)
Sullivan’s Pond
Dartmouth-Cole Harbour
This little park is well known for its famous geese that live here during the warmer months. With a playground nearby and lots to explore, it’s a great way to spend an afternoon.
Did you know that there are 13 word murals with positive and uplifting messages placed around Downtown Dartmouth? Next time you’re in the area, look up! You might see something that makes you smile.
Camping Around the Halifax Region
Dollar Lake Provincial Park
Musquodoboit Valley
E&F Webber Lakeside Park
Eastern Shore
Halifax West KOA
Bedford-Sackville
Hubbards Beach Campground & Cottages
Peggy’s Cove Coastal Region
King Neptune Campground
Peggy’s Cove Coastal Region
Laurie Provincial Park Airport Area
Murphy’s Camping on the Ocean
Eastern Shore
Norse Cove Seaside Camping
Eastern Shore
Porters Lake Provincial Park
Eastern Shore
Shubie Campground
Dartmouth-Cole Harbour
Wayside Camping Park
Family-Friendly
Halifax has plenty of fantastic accommodations, no matter what you’re looking for. From pools and waterslides to pet-friendly accommodations, find your perfect Halifax home base.
Places to Stay Legend
Pet-Friendly Pool
Waterslide
PET-FRIENDLY TIPS:
In Halifax, dogs receive the VIP (Very Important Pup) treatment. Check out our dog-friendly travel guide and discover shops, patios, and attractions perfect for enjoying with your furry friend.
Why did the witch stay in a hotel? She heard they had great broom service!
DOWNTOWN HALIFAX
The Barrington Hotel
Downtown Halifax
ON-SITE RESTAURANT: Tempo Food + Drink
CLOSE TO: Halifax Waterfront, Scotiabank Centre
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Cambridge Suites Hotel Halifax
Downtown Halifax
ON-SITE RESTAURANT: Canvas Resto Lounge
CLOSE TO: Scotiabank Centre, Halifax Citadel
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Four Points by Sheraton Halifax
Downtown Halifax
ON-SITE RESTAURANT: Latitude 44 Restaurant + Taproom
CLOSE TO: Halifax Waterfront, Harbour Hopper
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Halifax Marriott Harbourfront Hotel
Downtown Halifax
ON-SITE RESTAURANT: Harbourstone Pour House
CLOSE TO: Halifax Waterfront, Halifax Ferry Terminal
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Hampton Inn by Hilton Halifax Downtown
Downtown Halifax
CLOSE TO: Scotiabank Centre, Halifax Citadel
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HI Halifax Heritage House
Downtown Halifax
CLOSE TO: Halifax Waterfront, Discovery Centre
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Hotel Halifax
Downtown Halifax
ON-SITE RESTAURANT: Harbour City Bar & Grill
CLOSE TO: Scotiabank Centre, Halifax Waterfront
* Hotel Halifax is closed for renovations reopening in July 2025
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Lord Nelson Hotel & Suites
Downtown Halifax
ON-SITE RESTAURANT: The Arms Restaurant
CLOSE TO: Halifax Public Gardens, Spring Garden Road
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Moxy Halifax Hotel
Downtown Halifax
ON-SITE RESTAURANT: Bar Moxy
CLOSE TO: Scotiabank Centre, Halifax Common
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The Prince George Hotel Halifax
Downtown Halifax
ON-SITE RESTAURANT: Gio Restaurant, LevelBar
CLOSE TO: Scotiabank Centre, Halifax Waterfront
The Westin Nova Scotian
Downtown Halifax
ON-SITE RESTAURANT: Seaport Social
CLOSE TO: Halifax Seaport Farmers’ Market, Discovery Centre
BEYOND THE DOWNTOWN CORE
Alt Hotel Halifax Airport
Airport Area
ON-SITE RESTAURANT: Sosta! Pizzeria
CLOSE TO: Atlantic Canada Aviation Museum, Oakfield Provincial Park
Atlantica Hotel Halifax
West End Halifax
ON-SITE RESTAURANT: The Cannery
CLOSE TO: Emera Oval, Museum of Natural History
Best Western Plus Chocolate Lake Hotel
West End Halifax
ON-SITE RESTAURANT: Lakeside Bar & Grill
CLOSE TO: Chocolate Lake, Chain of Lakes Trail
Best Western Plus Dartmouth Hotel & Suites
Dartmouth-Cole Harbour
ON-SITE RESTAURANT: Trendz Gastropub
CLOSE TO: Spectacle Lake Park, Dartmouth Crossing
Chateau Bedford Hotel & Suites
Bedford-Sackville
CLOSE TO: Bayers Lake Shopping District, Hemlock Ravine Park
Coastal Inn Halifax
Bedford-Sackville
CLOSE TO: Bayers Lake Shopping District, Long Lake Provincial Park
Courtyard by Marriott Halifax Dartmouth
Dartmouth-Cole Harbour
ON-SITE RESTAURANT: The Bistro
CLOSE TO: Dartmouth Crossing, Cineplex Dartmouth Crossing
Delta Hotels Dartmouth
Dartmouth-Cole Harbour
ON-SITE RESTAURANT: Pitch & Pivot
CLOSE TO: Dartmouth Crossing, Shubie Park
Hampton Inn by Hilton Dartmouth
Dartmouth-Cole Harbour
CLOSE TO: Dartmouth Crossing, Shubie Park
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Halifax – Bedford
Bedford-Sackville
CLOSE TO: Hemlock Ravine Park, Bayers Lake Shopping District
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Halifax – Dartmouth
Dartmouth-Cole Harbour
CLOSE TO: Spectacle Lake Park, Dartmouth Crossing
Sandman Signature Dartmouth Hotel & Suites
Dartmouth-Cole Harbour
ON-SITE RESTAURANT: Bar One and Denny’s
CLOSE TO: Dartmouth Crossing, Shubie Park
Wilson’s Coastal Club Resort
Peggy’s Cove Coastal Region
CLOSE TO: Cleveland Beach, Peggy’s Point Lighthouse
Where to Stay
Fun Things to Do For Every Season
No matter the time of year, there’s always something fun to do in Halifax! Hal-Con
□ Spot the ducks! Sullivan’s Pond and Shubie Park in Dartmouth, along with Frog Pond Trail in Armdale, are fantastic spots to see ducks and geese.
□ Explore the blooming flowers or spot migratory birds at the Halifax Public Gardens
□ On rainy days, visit a Halifax Public Libraries branch and dive into a good book! The Alderney Gate Library in Dartmouth and Keshen Goodman Library in Clayton Park are great for kids.
□ Visit the Cole Harbour Heritage Farm Museum to learn about farm life and have the chance to pet and feed animals. (BY DONATION)
□ Catch a Halifax Wanderers FC soccer match at the Wanderers Grounds, or cheer on the Halifax Tides FC women’s soccer team during their inaugural season. (April-October)
□ Visit I Heart Bikes to enjoy a family ride along the Halifax Waterfront, then grab a snack at one of the tasty spots at the Salt Yard.
□ Teens and older kids can feel like they are in a real-life video game at Activate Halifax, an interactive gaming experience.
□ Head to the beach! See page 37 for great beaches for families.
□ Visit Fisherman’s Cove, an over 200-year-old working fishing village with colourful shops along the boardwalk. Then, head to the Lower Base Shearwater Playground (page 32) to burn off some energy.
□ Join the fun at the Clam Harbour Beach Sandcastle Competition and watch spectacular sandy masterpieces come to life! (August 24th)
□ Go for a swim in the outdoor pool at the Halifax Common Aquatics Facility
□ Dance to the beat of family-friendly music at the Halifax Jazz Festival!
□ Experience Nova Scotia’s premier summer spectacle, the Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo. (June-July)
□ Be part of one of Halifax’s most beloved annual events, the Halifax Pride Parade during the Halifax Pride Festival (July)
□ Take in a live outdoor performance from Shakespeare by the Sea in Point Pleasant Park. (July-September) (BY DONATION)
□ Experience music, comedy, acrobatics, and more waterfront magic at the Halifax Busker Festival. (July 30-August 4) (BY DONATION)
□ Fly a kite in Halifax at the East Coast Kite Festival.
□ Experience amusement rides, livestock shows, truck pulls, and so much more at the Halifax County Exhibition in Middle Musquodoboit. (August 13-16)
□ See the changing leaves on a crisp fall hike. Some of the best places to see fall colours include: Shubie Park in Dartmouth, Sir Sandford Fleming Park, and the Musquodoboit Valley. See page 30 for a list of five kid-friendly Halifax hikes.
□ Brave the Halifax Citadel Ghost Tour (JulyOctober) or a Halifax Ghost Walking Tour (JuneNovember) - if you dare!
□ Wander the city streets during Nocturne, Halifax’s free nighttime outdoor art festival. (October)
□ Get geeky with friends. Sci-fi and fantasy fans will love Hal-Con, the biggest sci-fi convention in Atlantic Canada! (November)
□ Enjoy an exciting day of bowling, arcade games, and tasty treats at Playdium or one of the Bowlarama locations.
□ Embark on an adventure with indoor rock climbing at Seven Bays Bouldering or East Peak Climbing.
□ See a fantastic show at Neptune Theatre.
□ Chill out at the Downtown Dartmouth Ice Festival! (January)
□ Catch a game with the Halifax Mooseheads (September-March) or the Halifax Thunderbirds (December-April), showcasing hockey and lacrosse action.
□ Meet Spruce, the holiday gonk, at the Evergreen Festival on the Halifax Waterfront. (NovemberDecember)
□ Greet Woody the Talking Christmas Tree at Mic Mac Mall in Dartmouth. (November-December)
□ Join the fun and community spirit at the Light Up Bedford Parade! (November)
□ Watch the Dartmouth Christmas Tree Lighting at Sullivan’s Pond while enjoying fun performances and yummy treats! (December)
□ Enjoy the twinkling lights and get ready for a special visit from Santa at the 30th annual Holiday Parade of Lights in Downtown Halifax.
□ Explore Glow, an enchanting light festival featuring dazzling displays, food, entertainment, inflatables, and games. (November-December)
□ Go sledding on Citadel Hill or skate on the Emera Oval! (page 10)
□ On extra chilly days, check out pages 38 to 40 for things to do indoors.
The Curious Case of Halifax Fog
Halifax has a way of turning an ordinary day into something extraordinary. If you’re lucky, you might witness a thick, silvery fog rolling over the water, hiding boats and buildings like a magician’s disappearing act. But where does this mysterious fog come from? Let’s uncover some fun facts about Halifax’s famous misty spectacle!
What is Fog, Anyway?
Fog is like a cloud that forms close to the ground. It happens when warm, moist air meets cooler air, causing the moisture in the air to turn into tiny water droplets. In Halifax, the meeting of the cold Atlantic Ocean and the warmer air from the land creates the perfect recipe for coastal fog.
It’s especially common in spring and summer when the ocean water is still chilly, but the air above starts to heat up. The result? A magical blanket of mist that floats over the city and harbour!
A Friend to Sailors and a Bit of a Trickster!
Halifax has been an important port city for hundreds of years, but its foggy weather wasn’t always easy for sailors to navigate. Imagine being out on the water and suddenly not being able to see where you’re going!
That’s why foghorns and lighthouses became so important. Foghorns send out loud, low sounds that help ships find their way when the fog is too thick to see. Beacons, like the iconic Peggy’s Point Lighthouse, use bright beams of light to guide sailors safely to shore.
Legends About Fog
Fog has inspired some spooky stories in Halifax. Sailors used to tell tales of ghost ships appearing and disappearing in the mist. Some even believed the fog was created by magical creatures like mermaids or sea witches trying to hide treasures.
One chilling legend from the Bedford Basin tells of a group of fishermen who vanished in the thick fog many years ago. Their small boat, called a dory, tipped over, losing them to the sea. Since then, on foggy evenings, people standing along the shore have heard the sound of oars splashing through the water, as if the boat is coming towards them! But when they look, no dory is ever in sight. Some believe the ghostly fishermen’s boat still rows through the mist, endlessly searching for the shore.
Another famous story comes from Peggy’s Cove. This scary tale recounts the life of Margaret (Peggy), who tragically lost her family in the area. On foggy days, visitors sometimes spot a shadowy figure moving along the rocks—a woman in a blue dress blending with the mist. Some believe it’s Margaret, still searching for her lost family, her spirit forever wandering the rocky coves as the Lady in Blue.
Did you know fog can help plants? The tiny water droplets in fog can provide extra moisture and act as a protective blanket, slowing the drying of topsoil.
Halifax is one of Canada’s foggiest cities, with an average of 121 foggy days each year!
Fun Things to Do on a Foggy Day
Even though fog can feel a little eerie, it’s also a lot of fun to explore Halifax when it’s misty. Here are some activities you can try:
COUNT THE FOGHORNS: Listen to the deep, echoing sounds of foghorns guiding ships safely to shore.
WATCH HOW THE FOG MOVES: Fog can roll in quickly and then suddenly lift, like a magic trick. It’s fun to watch how it changes the landscape around you.
TAKE A WALK BY THE WATER: Places like the Halifax Waterfront, Point Pleasant Park, or Fisherman’s Cove look magical in the fog.
EXPLORE THE HALIFAX PUBLIC GARDENS: Step into a fairytale as you stroll through the mist, uncovering flowers, trees, birds, and statues at every turn.
VISIT THE HALIFAX CITADEL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE:
Explore the spooky tunnels and hidden corners of this historic fortress, wrapped in fog!
RIDE THE ALDERNEY FERRY: Hop on a ferry and sail across the Halifax Harbour. As the fog rolls in, imagine you’re on a pirate adventure!
The fog of Halifax isn’t just a weather event; it’s a part of the city’s charm and history. Whether walking along the waterfront, imagining ghost ships, or listening to a foghorn, there’s always something magical about a misty day in Halifax. So, the next time you see the fog rolling in, take a moment to enjoy the mystery it brings—after all, it’s not every day you get to walk in a cloud!
Kid-Friendly Restaurants
What makes a restaurant kid-friendly? A kids’ menu! Big booths! Activity sheets! All this and more can be found at the following Halifax restaurants.
The Armview
Restaurant
& Lounge
West End Halifax
COZY OLD-SCHOOL DINER
FOR KIDS: Kids’ menu, milkshakes, booths, views of the boats in the Northwest Arm.
FOR GROWN-UPS: Nostalgic old-school diner décor, spiked milkshakes.
Bluenose II Restaurant
Downtown Halifax
HOMESTYLE FAMILY DINER
FOR KIDS: Booths, ice cream sundaes. FOR GROWN-UPS: Local history (the restaurant opened in 1964!), convenient downtown location, space to park a stroller.
MUST-TRY: Chocolate Turtle Brownie.
Boondocks Restaurant
Dartmouth-Cole Harbour
OCEANFRONT SEAFOOD RESTAURANT
FOR KIDS: Kids’ menu, search for rubber. ducks hidden around the restaurant, views of the Halifax Harbour, outdoor patio.
FOR GROWN-UPS: Fresh seafood, explore the Fisherman’s Cove village after your meal.
Cheeky Neighbour Diner
West End Halifax
NEIGHBOURHOOD DINER WITH A MODERN TWIST
FOR KIDS: All-day breakfast, diner décor. FOR GROWN-UPS: Local ingredients, vegan options, brunch Caesars, rotating local beers.
MUST-TRY: Chef’s French Toast Special.
The Chickenburger
Bedford-Sackville
RETRO FAMILY DINER
FOR KIDS: Kids’ combos, milkshakes, retro diner décor, working jukebox, Chicken Little ice cream parlour around back.
FOR GROWN-UPS: Delicious diner classics.
Chick N’ Chill
Dartmouth-Cole Harbour
FRIED CHICKEN JOINT
FOR KIDS: Crispy, fresh chicken, savoury sides, kid-friendly environment.
FOR GROWN-UPS: Delicious family combos, Filipino-style spaghetti, friendly service.
MUST-TRY: Popcorn chicken, chicken burger.
CHKN CHOP
North End Halifax
CHARCOAL CHICKEN JOINT
FOR KIDS: Freshly baked cookies, mac n’ cheese, local sodas.
FOR GROWN-UPS: Family combos, local beer.
Darrell’s Restaurant
Downtown Halifax
LOCAL FAVOURITE BURGER JOINT
FOR KIDS: Kids’ menu, award-winning oldfashioned milkshakes.
FOR GROWN-UPS: Cozy setting, quality ingredients.
MUST-TRY: The Peanut Butter Burger.
Easy Street Diner
Bedford-Sackville
RETRO-STYLE FAMILY DINER
FOR KIDS: Kids’ menu, all-day breakfast, milkshakes, retro diner décor.
FOR GROWN-UPS: Hard milkshakes, dietary restriction-friendly options, quality ingredients, environmentally conscious.
Freeman’s Little New York
4 LOCATIONS: Bedford-Sackville, Downtown Halifax , West End Halifax (x2)
NEW-YORK STYLE PIZZERIA
FOR KIDS: Kids’ menu, colouring & activities, booths.
FOR GROWN-UPS: Drink specials, lunch specials, plenty of options for every taste/diet.
Legend
Breakfast/Brunch
Lunch
Dinner
Kids’ Menu Available
Accessible Features
Vegetarian/Vegan/ Gluten Free Option
A
Good Day Kitchen & Café
Airport Area
SMALL FAMILY-RUN CAFÉ
FOR KIDS: “Babyccino” (steamed milk with sprinkles in a cute little mug).
FOR GROWN-UPS: Delicious coffee, breakfasts, baked goods.
Mic Mac Bar & Grill
Dartmouth-Cole Harbour
TAVERN-STYLE FAMILY RESTAURANT
FOR KIDS: Kids’ menu, delicious desserts.
FOR GROWN-UPS: Large portions, and a bustling, noisy atmosphere which means there’s no need to worry about fussy kids disrupting other diners!
MUST-TRY: Delicious steaks.
Morris East
2 LOCATIONS + SLICE SHOP: BedfordSackville, West End Halifax
NEIGHBOURHOOD PIZZERIA
FOR KIDS: Kids-size pizzas, ice cream.
FOR GROWN-UPS: Prosecco happy hour.
North Brewing Company
2 LOCATIONS: Dartmouth-Cole Harbour, Peggy’s Cove Coastal Region
FAMILY-FRIENDLY MICRO-BREWERY & RESTAURANT
FOR KIDS: Kids-sized fish & chips, games and arcades in the Dartmouth-Cole Harbour location.
FOR GROWN-UPS: Local craft beer on tap, brunch menu, Southeast Asian flavours.
Ojet Sushi (Sushi Jet)
Downtown Halifax
SUSHI RESTAURANT
FOR KIDS: Robots who take orders and deliver the food!
FOR GROWN-UPS: All-you-can-eat sushi, friendly service.
The Oxford Taproom
West End Halifax
BRING-YOUR-OWN-FOOD TAP ROOM
FOR KIDS: Spacious patio with large biergarten tables, ideal for families and furry friends. Nearby kid-friendly takeout options include Turbo Chicken and King of Donair.
FOR GROWN-UPS: Cozy and vintage vibes, wide selection of unique craft beers.
Ristorante a Mano
Downtown Halifax
NEIGHBOURHOOD ITALIAN TRATTORIA
FOR KIDS: “Bambino menu”, delicious homemade gelato and sorbet.
FOR GROWN-UPS: Authentic Italian home cooking in a waterfront location.
Vernon’s Thunderbird Diner
Bedford-Sackville
RETRO-STYLE FAMILY DINER
FOR KIDS: Classic treats like milkshakes and banana splits, download the walking trail map to explore after your meal.
FOR GROWN-UPS: Family Bundle Menu, all-day breakfast.
The Wooden Monkey
2 LOCATIONS: Dartmouth-Cole Harbour, Downtown Halifax
LOCAL FARM-TO-TABLE FARE
FOR KIDS: Kids’ menu, front row seats to watch the ferry come and go (Dartmouth location).
FOR GROWN-UPS: Quality ingredients that are locally sourced and environmentally conscious, and can accommodate dietary restrictions.
A beloved symbol of Atlantic Canada, Moon Mist combines banana, grape, and bubblegum flavours in a vibrant swirl. Believed to have been created in Nova Scotia in the 1960s, this whimsical ice cream has become the region’s unofficial frozen treat, loved by locals and visitors alike.
Halifax’s Coolest
Ice Cream Shops
Note: Many of these businesses operate seasonally, so make sure to check online before heading out to scoop up a cone!
Why did the crab never share its ice cream in Halifax?
Because it was a little “shellfish!”
Scoop up a cone at one of these delicious local ice cream shops.
Better Vibe
Eastern Shore
What to Expect: Small-batch ice cream made with local ingredients.
Black Bear Ice Cream
Downtown Halifax
What to Expect: Old-fashioned homemade ice cream in a waterfront location.
Booza Emessa
Bedford-Sackville
What to Expect: Small-batch Syrian ice cream made with Nova Scotian dairy products.
Boutique Eatery Experience with Naana and Daren
Peggy’s Cove Coastal Region
What to Expect: Delicious gluten-free baked goods and dairy-free ice cream topped with stunning edible garnishes.
Bubba Magoos
Peggy’s Cove Coastal Region
What to Expect: Takeout window serving creamy Maritime-made ice cream sandwiches and other savoury snacks.
Cavicchi’s Meats
Peggy’s Cove Coastal Region
What to Expect: Ice cream served from a takeout window with a cute patio next to St. Margaret’s Bay Rails to Trails.
Chicken Little Café
Bedford-Sackville
What to Expect: Kid sizes and ice cream hurricanes.
COWS
Halifax
Downtown Halifax
What to Expect: Scoops, sundaes, shakes, and a unique variety of treats, including their popular chocolate-covered potato chips.
The Dairy Bar
Downtown Halifax
What to Expect: Soft-serve and sundaes made with seasonal ingredients, fun cereals, and snack food.
Dee Dee’s Ice Cream
North End Halifax
What to Expect: Small-batch homemade ice cream made with local ingredients.
Flynn’s Dairy Bar & Convenience
Downtown Halifax | North End Halifax | Peggy’s Cove Coastal Region
What to Expect: Tons of flavours of milkshakes, sundaes, and scoops!
The Fog Company
Downtown Halifax
What to Expect: Imaginative ice cream and cotton candy confections, cookies, and doughnuts.
Hubbards Beach Campground
Canteen
Peggy’s Cove Coastal Region
What to Expect: Takeout window serving ice cream and lunch.
Jo’s Old Time Candy & Ice Cream Parlour
Dartmouth-Cole Harbour
What to Expect: Ice cream, candy, and dessert in a working fishing village.
Freak Lunchbox
Bedford-Sackville
Downtown Halifax
Dartmouth-Cole Harbour West End Halifax
The Little Ice Cream Shop
Peggy’s Cove Coastal Region
What to Expect: Soft-serve, sundaes, and shares with both dairy and vegan options. Tons of toppings available!
Pane e Circo
Downtown Halifax
What to Expect: Housemade gelato and sorbet.
Polar Bear Express
Eastern Shore
What to Expect: Ice cream, sundaes and cold drinks. Cash only.
Portland Street Crêperie
Dartmouth-Cole Harbour
What to Expect: Bubble waffles and ice cream alongside sweet and savoury crêpes. Ask for a dog-sized crêpe with peanut butter for your furry friend!
Rousseau Chocolatier
Downtown Halifax
What to Expect: Homemade soft-serve and dairy-free options.
Pup-Cup
Hidden Gem
Services in French upon request
BONUS SHOP
What To Expect: Head to Freak Lunchbox for a huge selection of candy in a quirky and colourful store!
Sugah! Confectionery & Ice Cream Emporium
Downtown Halifax
What to Expect: Hand-paddled ice cream made with local ingredients.
Taiyaki 52
Downtown Halifax
What to Expect: Soft-serve ice cream in a crunchy fish-shaped waffle cone.
What’s the Scoop
Dartmouth-Cole Harbour
What to Expect: Ice cream, treats and dinner menu located in Fisherman’s Cove.
Halifax Loves Hot Chocolate
When the fog rolls in, nothing tastes better than a cozy cup of cocoa from one of these local cafés.
1. Café Lara North End Halifax
2. Chicken Little Café Bedford-Sackville
3. Dilly Dally Eats West End Halifax
4. Rousseau Chocolatier Downtown Halifax
5. Tart & Soul Café Downtown Halifax
6. Two If By Sea Café
Dartmouth-Cole Harbour
7. The Marmalade Café & Coffee Bar Eastern Shore
8. Labour Day Picnic Café
Peggy’s Cove Coastal Region
Things to Do Outside
Getting outside means fun for everyone!
Atlantic Splash Adventure
Bedford-Sackville
Just 20 minutes from Downtown Halifax, this water park features eight waterslides, a kiddie splash pool, a Ferris wheel, go-karts, and more—making it a top destination for family-friendly summer fun.
Splashifax
Bedford-Sackville
Splashifax is Nova Scotia’s first floating water park, where kids can jump, slide, and splash on giant inflatable obstacles— including the world’s largest inflatable unicorn! Grab your lifejacket and dive into an hour and a half of fun.
Hatfield Farm
Bedford-Sackville
Hatfield Farm offers a petting zoo and a supervised rubber rodeo featuring bounce castles. Visitors can also enjoy wagon rides during summer months and sleigh rides in the snow!
Cole Harbour
Heritage Farm Museum
Dartmouth-Cole Harbour
Dedicated to preserving Cole Harbour’s agricultural past, the museum is home to a wonderful selection of animals, a garden, and tearoom.
ADMISSION BY DONATION
Halifax Public Gardens
Downtown Halifax
This 16-acre urban oasis is a perfect place to spend an afternoon with the family. With trails to explore, fairytale bridges, stunning flower beds, and ducks paddling in ponds, there is something new to discover around every corner.
Fisherman’s Cove
Dartmouth-Cole Harbour
Only 20 minutes from Downtown Halifax, this over 200-year-old restored fishing village looks like it’s straight out of an East Coast postcard. Stroll the boardwalk with an ice cream, visit nearby MacCormacks Beach Provincial Park, or catch a ferry to McNabs Island for a day of exploration.
Even More Things to Do Outside
Halifax Citadel National Historic Site
Downtown Halifax
The Halifax Citadel National Historic Site allows visitors to experience life as a soldier in the 19th century. Plenty of fun family activities are on offer, including solving a 100+ yearold mystery using a comic book guide, and learning to send coded messages. The Citadel grounds are open and available to explore yearround.
Ataraxy Farm
Eastern Shore
This mental health therapy farm offers free tours and sells skin and hair care products made with goat’s milk. All proceeds from product sales go directly back into the farm to support animal care. Stop by for a guided tour of the farm and enjoy playtime with the goats!
Halifax Waterfront
Downtown Halifax
Packed with things to do for people of all ages, the Halifax Waterfront is a paradise for families. Kids can play on the Submarine Playground, try different foods from the Salt Yard vendors, see all the ships passing in the harbour, and hang out on the waterfront hammocks.
Harbour Hopper Tours
Downtown Halifax
This top-rated tour travels through historic Halifax before making a splash as the amphibious Harbour Hopper dives into the Halifax Harbour! You’ll learn fun Halifacts and see the city’s highlights on this iconic tour.
Peggy’s Cove
Peggy’s Cove Coastal Region
Perched on an expanse of rocks overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, Peggy’s Point Lighthouse is an iconic Canadian landmark you’ll want to experience. Kids can enjoy climbing and scrambling over the vast rock formations and looking at the enormous lighthouse. Just make sure to stay off the black (aka wet) rocks.
Memory Lane Heritage Village
Eastern Shore
This living history museum offers a glimpse into rural coastal life in Nova Scotia during the 1940s. It features a working general store, schoolhouse, cookhouse, and workshop. With fewer crowds on the Eastern Shore, you can take your time exploring, playing and enjoying all the fun memorabilia.
Georges Island National Historic Site
Halifax Harbour | Downtown Halifax
Why is Peggy’s Cove so popular? Because it rocks!
Travel by ferry from the Halifax waterfront to explore this historic harbour island. Explore the underground tunnels and find the massive cannons that were once used to protect the harbour.
Can you find the five native Nova Scotia wildflowers on this page? They are Coltsfoot, Lady Slipper, Mayflower, Forget-Me-Not, and Wild Strawberry. Lady Slippers are special orchids, and in Nova Scotia, it’s against the law to pick or disturb them. Be sure to leave all the flowers growing where they belong and enjoy spotting them!
5 Halifax Hikes Under 5km
Because kids’ legs are shorter than adults’!
Shubie Park
What’s Halifax’s favourite outdoor spot for dogs?
The paw-some trails at Shubie Park!
Shubie Park Loop Trail
Dartmouth-Cole Harbour
TYPE: Loop trail through large, wooded park.
LENGTH: 2 km
TRAILHEAD: Paved parking off Locks Road at the trail’s south end.
SURFACE: Gravel
FEATURES: Wildlife, lake views, scenic canal, seasonal canteen, stroller-friendly paths, swimming beach with lifeguards.
Polly Cove Trail
Peggy’s Cove Coastal Region
TYPE: Scenic coastal trail.
LENGTH: 3.1 km
TRAILHEAD: Access from Prospect Road (Route 333), with limited roadside parking near the trailhead.
SURFACE: Natural terrain with rocky and uneven sections.
FEATURES: Rugged granite outcrops, panoramic ocean views of Peggy’s Cove, secluded coves, coastal landscapes, and a peaceful, uncrowded hiking experience.
RECOMMENDED FOR OLDER CHILDREN
Remember to respect these natural areas. Keep dogs leashed and pack out all garbage.
Hemlock Ravine Park
Bedford-Sackville
TYPE: Loop and interconnected trails.
LENGTH: 4 km
TRAILHEAD: Access from Kent Avenue, with a parking lot.
SURFACE: Gravel and dirt.
FEATURES: Old-growth hemlock trees, heartshaped pond, gentle elevation changes, trail network, benches.
Point Pleasant Park Trails
Downtown Halifax
TYPE: Park loop along the waterfront and through woods, with criss-crossing wooded trails.
LENGTH: 3.4 km (perimeter loop), with 39 km of trails throughout the park.
TRAILHEAD: Parking lots at the end of Point Pleasant Drive and Tower Road.
SURFACE: Crusher dust, wood chips, partially paved.
FEATURES: Waterfront trail, off-leash dog walking areas, preserved military fortifications, stroller-friendly paths, ocean views, picnic tables, benches.
POINT PLEASANT PARK IS OPEN 5AM-MIDNIGHT
Gibraltar Rock Loop Trail
Musquodoboit
Valley
TYPE: Loop
LENGTH: 1.3 km
TRAILHEAD: Located approximately 100 m south of the Gibraltar trailhead parking lot on Highway 357.
SURFACE: Natural terrain with steep inclines.
FEATURES: Panoramic views of Musquodoboit River and Shubenacadie glacial spillway, birds.
RECOMMENDED FOR OLDER CHILDREN
The Ultimate Halifax Playground Guide
summer Playgrounds + Splash Pads
Sizzling summer days call for splash and spray play!
If you’re looking for a playground where you can also cool off, consider visiting these splash pads! They are a fantastic way to beat the summer heat. With various water features and non-slip surfaces, these splash pads provide a fun water play experience for people of all ages.
Bayers Westwood Inclusive
Playground Park + Splashpad
West End Halifax
Features: Rubberized surfaces | Wheelchair challenge course | Tactile markers and audible cues | Ramps | Accessible swings | Musical instruments | Climbable fire truck
Nearby: Picnic area | Green space
Isleville Playground + Splashpad
North End Halifax
Features: Interactive games | Tube slide | Swings | Picnic area
Nearby: Green space | Hydrostone District
Jumpstart Inclusive
Playground + George Dixon
Splash Pad
North End Halifax
Features: Rubberized surfaces | Barrier-free access | Braille lettering | Double-wide ramps | Static-free slides | Musical instruments | We-Saw & We-Go-Round™
Nearby: Basketball courts | Green space
Beat the heat at Halifax Common, Isleville Centre, George Dixon Community Centre, and Sackville Splash Pad! These inclusive pads are bursting with fun, thoughtfully designed for kids using walkers or non-motorized wheelchairs to enjoy the water-filled excitement.
Sackville Splash Pad + Kinsmen Park
Bedford-Sackville
Features: Rubberized surfaces | Largest splash pad facility in the municipality | Water jets | Geysers | Structural loops and tunnels
Nearby: Waterfront lake location | Sandy, shallow beach | Walking trails | Picnic area
Shirley’s Splash Pad + Playground
Dartmouth-Cole Harbour
Features: Accessible features | Interactive games | Shade structures
Nearby: Tennis courts | Skate park | Green space
Westmount Inclusive Playground Park + Splash Pad
West End Halifax
Features: Rubberized surfaces | Wheelchair challenge course | Tactile markers and audible cues | Ramps | Accessible swings | Musical instruments | Climbable fire truck
Nearby: Tennis courts | Picnic area | Green space
Even More Playgrounds
Halifax is a playground paradise! With playgrounds at nearly every elementary school and in countless neighbourhoods, there’s always a spot for kids to have fun. This guide highlights the bigger playgrounds with the most to offer—from epic slides to climbing walls, these spots guarantee endless adventures!
8
Kiwanis Playground at Ferry Terminal Park
Dartmouth-Cole Harbour
Features: Rubberized surfaces | Rope climbing | Carousel | Waterfront location
Nearby: Alderney Ferry Terminal | Harbourwalk Trail
Lower Base Shearwarter Playground
Dartmouth-Cole Harbour
Features: Rubberized surfaces | Rope climbing | Carousel | Swings | Monkey Bars
Nearby: Fisherman’s Cove, MacCormacks Beach Provincial Park
Dingle Playground at Sir Sandford Fleming Park West End Halifax
Features: Log tower natural playground | Senior & junior play zones | Musical instruments | Waterfront location
Nearby: Dingle Tower | Walking trails & seawall walkway | Green space | Picnic area | Boat launch
Peace and Friendship Park
Downtown Halifax
Features: Rubberized surfaces | Carousel | Swings
Nearby: Discovery Centre | The Board Room Game Cafe | Halifax Waterfront
Fort Needham Memorial Park Playground
North End Halifax
Features: Natural playground with accessible features | Wooden cannon | Lookout tower | Spider web climber | Swings
Nearby: Picnic area | Off-leash dog park | Halifax Explosion Memorial Bell Tower | Sports field | Walking trails | Hydrostone Market
Gorsebrook Playground
Downtown Halifax
Features: Rubberized surfaces
| Accessible features | Monkey Bars | Spider web climber | Swings | Toddler zone | Wind chimes and drums
Nearby: Green space | Gorsebrook Park | Softball/ Baseball diamond
Lake Banook Playground
Dartmouth-Cole Harbour
Features: Lookout tower | Spider web climber | Swings | Monkey bars | Lakefront location
Nearby: Picnic area | Walking trails | Sullivan’s Pond (home to the iconic Sullivan’s Pond geese) | Birch Cove Park Beach
8
Submarine Playground on the Halifax Waterfront
Downtown Halifax
Features: Rubberized surfaces | Accessible features | Interactive submarine | Rope climber | Waterfront location
Nearby: Salt Yard | Maritime Museum of the Atlantic | Waterfront activities
Playgrounds Further Afield
DeWolf Park Playground on the Bedford Waterfront
Bedford-Sackville
Features: Rubberized surfaces | Ship-themed design | Waterfront location
Nearby: Boardwalk | Picnic area
Grand Lake Oakfield Playground
Airport Area
Features: Treehouse design | Climbing tires | Rope climber | Swings | Little kid’s structure
Nearby: Sports fields | Picnic area | Walking trails | Shubenacadie Grand Lake | Oakfield & Laurie Provincial Parks
Upper Musquodoboit
Wooden Playground
Musquodoboit Valley
Features: Castle-themed design | Wooden tower | Rope climber | Puppet theatre
Nearby: Musquodoboit Valley Provincial Park | Musquodoboit River | Nature learning and play space
Outdoor Pools
Cole Harbour Outdoor Pool + Splash Pad
Dartmouth-Cole Harbour
Supervised swimming | Splash pad | Toddler wading pool | Diving board
Halifax Common Playground
+ Halifax Common Aquatics Facility
Downtown Halifax
Playground features: Rubberized surfaces | Rope climbing | Carousel
Pool features: Supervised swimming | Beach-style entry | Climbing walls | Water plaza | Universal change rooms | Adaptive equipment
Indoor Pools
Canada Games Centre
Bedford-Sackville
Shallow tots pool | Sprinklers | Diving boards | Water slides | Hot tub
Captain William Spry Community Centre
Peggy’s Cove Coastal Region
Wave pool | Slide | Climbing wall
Cole Harbour Place
Dartmouth-Cole Harbour
Slide | Pads for babies & toddlers
East Hants Aquatic Centre
Musquodoboit Valley
Shallow tots pool | Waterslide | Climbing wall
Sackville Sports Stadium
Bedford-Sackville
Shallow tots pool | Small slide | Mushroom shower | Rope swing
Zatzman Sportsplex
Dartmouth-Cole Harbour
Shallow tots pool | Waterslide | Splash pad | Rope swing
Sand, Sea, and Sustainability
Here’s What You Can Do to Keep Our Beaches Beautiful
Keeping our beaches clean and protected is incredibly important, and it’s something everyone can help with!
AVOID THE SAND DUNES
These large hills of sand protect the beach. It’s important not to climb or walk on them, as our footsteps can damage the delicate plants that help hold the sand in place.
DON’T COLLECT SEASHELLS
Collecting seashells is a fun beach activity, but it’s important not to remove them from their home on the beach. Animals like hermit crabs use seashells as homes, so leaving them behind is like giving crabs a cozy place to live. Instead of bringing seashells home, take a photo so you’ll always remember them.
GIVE WILDLIFE SPACE
Keep a safe distance from wildlife. Avoid chasing birds or disturbing nesting areas. Also, ask your grownup to pick up any trash you see, such as plastic bags, because it can be harmful to animals.
When visiting the beach, be an eco-warrior by keeping it clean and protecting the dunes, seashells, and wildlife that call our beaches home.
The Best Saltwater Beaches for Families
Find out why Nova Scotia is known as Canada’s Ocean Playground!
Clam Harbour Beach
Eastern Shore
Drive from Downtown Halifax: 75 min
Features: Long sandy beach | Walking trails | Picnic area | Vault toilets | MobiMat | Supervised swimming (July-August, weekends only)
Great for: Building sandcastles.
Clam Harbour Beach is well-known for its annual Sandcastle Competition, which takes place on August 24th.
Martinique Beach
Eastern Shore
Drive from Downtown Halifax: 55 min
Features: Long sandy beach | Change rooms | Picnic area
Great for: Swimming, surfing, beachcombing, bird watching.
With 5 km of white sand, Martinique Beach is Nova Scotia’s longest sandy beach!
What’s a seagull’s favourite thing to do at Halifax’s beaches?
Hang out with their "gull-friends!"
Legend
Accessible Features
Free
Dogs allowed on a leash
Hiking Trails
Crystal Crescent Beach
Peggy’s Cove Coastal Region
Drive from Downtown Halifax: 35-40 min
Features: Three white sand beaches | Walking trails | Vault toilets
Great for: Bird watching and family hikes.
Hubbards Beach
Peggy’s Cove Coastal Region
Drive from Downtown Halifax: 45 min
Features: Sandy beach | Floating dock | Change rooms | Toilets | Showers | $10 parking fee | Nearby canteen
Great for: Families.
Queensland Beach
Peggy’s Cove Coastal Region
Drive from Downtown Halifax: 40 min
Features: Sandy beach | Supervised swimming (July-August) | Picnic area | Change rooms | Toilets | Nearby canteen Great for: Families.
Rainbow Haven Beach
Dartmouth-Cole Harbour
Drive from Downtown Halifax: 30 min
Features: Sandy beach | Supervised swimming (July-August) | Picnic area | Change rooms | Flush toilets
Great for: Families and flying kites.
Kid-Approved Indoor Activities & Attractions
Who says you need rain or snow to enjoy these incredible indoor attractions? Explore, learn, and have fun any day of the year!
Africville Museum
North End Halifax
Visit the land where the people of Africville lived, worked, and raised their families for over a century before being forcibly relocated in the 1960s to make way for industrial development. In 2012, the Seaview United Baptist Church was rebuilt and opened as the Africville Museum. This space invites locals and visitors to learn about Africville’s history and honour the community’s contributions to Canadian and African diasporic heritage.
FREE ADMISSION FOR KIDS 5 AND UNDER ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
Art Gallery of Nova Scotia
Downtown Halifax
As Atlantic Canada’s largest art museum, the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia has a permanent collection of over 19,000 pieces! Kids will enjoy seeing the famous painted house of Nova Scotian folk artist, Maud Lewis, and the whimsical clay artworks featured in the Folk/Funk exhibition.
FREE ADMISSION FOR KIDS 5 AND UNDER
FREE ADMISSION EVERY THURSDAY FROM 5 PM TO 9PM, SPONSORED BY BMO FINANCIAL GROUP.
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Atlantic Canada Aviation Museum*
Airport Area
This airport-adjacent museum is dedicated to preserving Canada’s rich civilian and military aviation history. Kids will love exploring the enormous collection of aircraft, weapons, and engines, as well as the flight simulators and hundreds of aviation artifacts.
*Limited winter hours. See website for details.
ADMISSION BY DONATION
Black Cultural Centre for Nova Scotia
Dartmouth-Cole Harbour
Located in Cherry Brook, the Black Cultural Centre for Nova Scotia is a museum and library resource center dedicated to preserving and celebrating African Nova Scotians’ rich history and culture. The museum offers engaging exhibits and multimedia presentations and features a family-friendly atmosphere.
FREE ADMISSION FOR KIDS 5 AND UNDER ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21
Downtown Halifax
Once the gateway to Canada for over one million immigrants between 1928 and 1971, this national museum offers an engaging experience for visitors of all ages. Kids will enjoy stepping into a replica ship’s cabin, dressing up in period costumes, and exploring the luggage that children would have carried when immigrating to Canada.
FREE ADMISSION FOR KIDS 5 AND UNDER
Free Accessible Features
Documentation in French Services in French upon request
Discovery Centre
Discovery Centre
Downtown Halifax
With four floors of interactive hands-on learning experiences, the Discovery Centre brings science, technology, engineering, arts, and math to life for kids of all ages. Young kids will enjoy the RBC Someday Street immersive play area, while older kids will love diving into the Innovation Lab on the lower level. Don’t miss the live star shows in the immersive Dome Theatre!
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Halifax Central Library
Downtown Halifax
The Halifax Central Library features a variety of kid-friendly spaces. In addition to its vast collection of children’s books, there are LEGO® tables, puppet theatres, board games, dollhouses, and many other engaging activities to keep kids entertained for hours. ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
Maritime Museum of the Atlantic
Downtown Halifax
Visit the oldest and largest maritime museum in Canada to explore Nova Scotia’s rich seafaring history, from piracy to shipwrecks to small crafts and naval history.
FREE ADMISSION FOR KIDS 5 AND UNDER
Museum of Natural History
Downtown Halifax
This kid-friendly museum features a variety of galleries on archeology, geology, mammals, aquatic life, and more, including an exhibit with numerous live specimens native to Nova Scotia. Don’t forget to say hi to Gus, the Museum of Natural History’s 102-year-old Gopher Tortoise.
FREE ADMISSION FOR KIDS 5 AND UNDER
Musquodoboit Harbour Railway Museum
Eastern Shore
Discover the history of Nova Scotia’s railways at the Musquodoboit Harbour Railway Museum. Check out vintage posters, tickets, maps, and photographs in this restored Canadian Northern Railway station, built in 1918. A food truck, beer garden, and an ice cream stand are available in the summer near a peaceful picnic grove.
Neptune Theatre
Downtown Halifax
Enjoy live theatre performances year-round at Neptune Theatre. Each season, Neptune offers a selection of kid-friendly shows, along with annual favourites such as A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens. Additionally, they host Pay-What-You-Can Performances on the first Tuesday of each show, sponsored by Bell Aliant.
Things to Do
Awesome Indoor Playgrounds & Play Places
Run wild at one of these awesome indoor play places!
Activate Halifax
Dartmouth-Cole Harbour
Minimum age to participate is 6 years old. Kids under 13 must be accompanied by an adult Interactive gaming experiences | High-energy obstacle courses | Laser mazes | Climbing walls | Augmented reality challenges | Arcade-style sports games
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Beyond! Indoor Play
Musquodoboit Valley
For kids up to 12 years old
Slides | Tunnels | Soft play area for babies & toddlers
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East Peak Climbing
West End Halifax
Kids under 14 require direct supervision
Bouldering & roped climbing | Training areas | Climbing gear rentals | Group lessons & private coaching | Café and lounge area
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Get Air Trampoline Park
Dartmouth-Cole Harbour
All ages | Kids under 10 must be accompanied by an adult Trampolines | Dodgeball | Ninja activities | Kiddie court (for jumpers under 46 inches tall) | Foam pit | Slamball | Slackline | Fidget ladder | Massage chairs •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
Hop! Skip! Jump! Indoor Play Space
Bedford-Sackville
For kids up to 12 years old
Ball-blaster arena | Spider climbing tower | Wave slides | Soft climbing wall | Zero-gravity ball table | Ball pool | Dedicated toddler area | Café
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Ice Patch Hollow Indoor Playground
Bedford-Sackville
For kids up to 12 years old
Jungle gym | Slides | Ball shooters | Arcade games | Toddler section •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
The Kids Fun Factory
Dartmouth-Cole Harbour
For kids up to 13 years old
Slides | Tunnels | Ball pit | Ball guns | Zero gravity machine | Ball fountain | Soft play area for babies & toddlers | Virtual reality
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Playdium
Dartmouth-Cole Harbour
All ages
Arcade games | Virtual reality | Bowling | Eating area
Putting Edge Halifax
Bedford-Sackville
All ages
Glow-in-the-dark mini golf | Themed course | 18 holes of fun | Interactive obstacles | Arcade games •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
Seven Bays Bouldering
Downtown Halifax | Bedford-Sackville
Kids 6-14 years old require direct supervision, and a parent or legal guardian must sign a waiver for participants under 18
Climbing challenges for all skill levels | Training area | Chalk bags & climbing gear available | Café
Ice Patch Hollow Indoor Playground
Nurtured Products for Parenting
Kid-Approved shopping
Kiwimelon
Agricola Street Books
North End Halifax
An independent bookstore nestled on Halifax’s Agricola Street, boasting a diverse collection of books for all tastes.
Brain Candy Toys
Bedford-Sackville
A playful haven for toy enthusiasts, offering a wide range of brainstimulating and entertaining toys.
Cape and Cowl
Comics and Collectibles
Bedford-Sackville
A treasure trove for comic book and collectible lovers, with an impressive selection of merchandise.
The Deck Box
Downtown Halifax
A go-to spot for magic and Pokémon cards, as well as for new and pre-owned video games and gaming systems.
Discovery Shop (Discovery Centre)
Downtown Halifax
The official store of the Discovery Centre, offering educational and science-themed products and souvenirs.
Fluffy Bottom Babies
Bedford-Sackville
A boutique offering high-quality, practical clothing and footwear for children aged 0–12, alongside toys, gifts, and must-have items.
Downtown Halifax
A boutique offering eco-friendly, handcrafted toys and gifts that inspire imaginative play and celebrate individuality.
Mastermind Toys
Dartmouth-Cole Harbour
West End Halifax
A beloved toy store chain known for its extensive selection of high-quality toys for kids of all ages.
Monster Comic Lounge
North End Halifax
A cozy space for comic book lovers, featuring a diverse collection of comics and a comfortable lounge area.
Nurtured Products for Parenting
North End Halifax
A thoughtfully curated parenting store offering eco-friendly and nurturing products for families.
Royal Diaperer
Bedford-Sackville
A premium baby store with a wide selection of high-end products, toys, and the best gifts for little ones.
Strange Adventures
Comics & Curiosities
Downtown Halifax |
Dartmouth-Cole Harbour
A legendary comic book shop known for its diverse selection of comics and quirky curiosities.
Twiggz
Dartmouth-Cole Harbour
A stylish children’s boutique specializing in high-quality, comfortable apparel and footwear.
Woozles Children’s Bookstore
West End Halifax
Canada’s oldest children’s bookstore, adored for its carefully curated collection of books for young readers.
Meet Jane, a soldier’s wife
Some of the soldiers at the Citadel were married. The wives were considered part of the regiment and lived in special quarters for soldiers with families. They wore dresses with big hoop skirts, bonnets to protect from the sun, shawls to keep them warm, and aprons to protect their out ts. Visit the Halifax Citadel with your family to learn more.
Colour and cut out Jane’s clothing.
sontag shawl / châle sontag
902-426-5080
Voici Jane, la femme d’un soldat
Certains soldats de la citadelle étaient mariés. Les épouses étaient considérées comme faisant partie du régiment et vivaient dans des quartiers spéciaux réservés aux soldats ayant une famille. Elles portaient des robes avec de grandes jupes à crinoline, des bonnets pour se protéger du soleil, des châles pour rester au chaud et des tabliers pour protéger leurs tenues. Visitez la citadelle d’Halifax avec votre famille pour en savoir plus.
Coloriez et découpez les vêtements de Jane.
Standing
Get to Know Halifax’s Mascots!
Say hello to some of Halifax’s most beloved mascots! This colourful page is packed with vibrant playing cards showcasing these spirited characters. Meet the friendly faces, bringing energy, excitement, and a whole lot of heart to our city. Who’s your favourite mascot?
Mascot Charades
Grab a friend and your mascot cards! Here’s how to play:
Pick a Card
Choose a mascot card, but don’t show it to your friend.
Pretend to Be the Mascot
Act like the mascot on the card—bark like Rover, flap your wings like Bolt, or prowl like the Dalhousie Tiger!
Guess the Mascot
Your friend must guess which mascot you’re pretending to be.
Take Turns
Switch roles and see who can guess the most mascots!
November and December.
Halifax Mural Scavenger Hunt
How many of these murals can you spot around Halifax?
1. Rainbow Tiger
ARTIST: Jieun (June) Kim
LOCATION: 6260 Quinpool Rd, Halifax
2. I’m So Glad You’re Here
ARTIST: Kristen De Palma
LOCATION: 2087 Gottingen St, Halifax
3. Puffins
ARTIST: Molly Margaret
LOCATION: 2087 Gottingen St, Halifax
4. Memories of Quinpool
ARTIST: Daniel Burt
LOCATION: 6311 Quinpool Rd, Halifax
To check out more murals, visit:
5. Harbour Seal
ARTIST: DRPN SOUL aka Kalkidan Assefa
LOCATION: 1041 Marginal Rd, Halifax
6. The Sea in Her Blood
ARTIST: Michael Burt, Daniel Burt & Justine Fraser-Fong
LOCATION: 1675 Lower Water St, Halifax
7. Marisa
ARTIST: Dan Metcalfe
LOCATION: 30 Portland St, Dartmouth
8. Blue Jay and Lupins
ARTIST: Donny Fong 6432 Quinpool Rd, Halifax
9. Spread Your Magic
ARTIST: Corey Pane 1580 Grafton St, Halifax
Halifax Tides FC is Halifax’s first professional women’s soccer club. We can’t wait to hear you cheering on the Tides at the Wanderers Grounds during the first-ever season, April – November 2025.
tidesfc.ca | Halifax, NS
Sensory-Accessible Halifax
Discovery Centre
Sensory-Friendly Sundays at the Museum of Natural History
Thanks to Autism Nova Scotia, Sundays at the Museum of Natural History are designed with sensory-friendly features, including reduced lighting and sound, sensory maps, and social narratives for a more inclusive experience.
Halifax Public Libraries Autism Tool Kits
To enhance accessibility, every Halifax Public Libraries branch now offers sensory-friendly Autism Tool Kits, created in partnership with Autism Nova Scotia.
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Tranquil Skating at the Emera Oval
Enjoy “Sensory Skate” at the Emera Oval, held Mondays from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m. This special hour offers a quieter, more relaxed environment: no music or announcements, reduced noise-generating activities, limited occupancy inside the rental hut, and a focus on low, calm voices and slower-paced skating. Free adaptive equipment is also available. Be sure to check the Emera Oval’s website before visiting, as skate times may be subject to cancellation or delay due to weather conditions.
Sensory-Accessible Concerts by Cecilia
Concerts
This series of classical music concerts is specifically designed to be welcoming, friendly, and accessible for neurodiverse community members of all ages and their families. Concerts are open to the public free of charge on select Sunday afternoons at the Halifax Central Library’s Paul O’Regan Hall. Learn more at ceciliaconcerts.ca
Relaxed Performances at Nepture Theatre
Neptune Theatre offers relaxed performances, designed to welcome audience members who would benefit from a more relaxed environment, including those with sensory sensitivities, learning differences, autism spectrum disorder, and first-time theatregoers. Learn more at neptunetheatre.com/visit/accessibility.
The Trainyard’s Quiet Space
The Trainyard General Store offers a quiet space in the back of their shop for grown-ups who wish to feed, change, or cuddle their little ones in a private place, or for anyone in need of a sensory break.
Access 2 Card program
The Easter Seals Canada Access 2 Card program offers free admission for the companion of those visitors with permanent disabilities who require the assistance of a support person at hundreds of participating entertainment, cultural and recreational venues across Canada.
Access 2 participants in Halifax include:
• Art Gallery of Nova Scotia
• Canada Games Centre
• Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21
• Discovery Centre
• Halifax Jazz Festival
• HRM Recreation and Pools
• Maritime Museum of the Atlantic
• Museum of Natural History
Halifax Waterfront
• Neptune Theatre
For more info, check out: access2card.ca/ participating-venues
Accessible Adventures for Kids in Halifax
Halifax is brimming with accessible, inclusive, and sensory-friendly activities for kids! Whether exploring the great outdoors or enjoying a lively yet laid-back concert, this guide is your key to uncovering the amazing family-friendly adventures waiting for you in the city.
OUTDOOR RECREATION
Jumpstart Playground at George Dixon
Community Centre
North End Halifax
This playground is a fantastic haven for wheelchair users, offering inclusive features like a roll-on access merry-go-round and extensive ramps for endless mobility-friendly fun. The turf surface is perfect for children using walkers or wheelchairs to join the excitement. Parking is available on Brunswick Street, but keep in mind that there’s a slight incline.
Halifax Common Aquatics Facility
Downtown Halifax
Come enjoy Halifax’s outdoor pool, proudly certified by the Rick Hansen Foundation for accessibility. With a pool lift and aquatic wheelchair available, the facility offers a welcoming space for people of varying abilities to enjoy the water.
Emera Oval and Halifax Common
Downtown Halifax
Grab one of the many winter adaptive equipment options, like a Hippocampe sledge, available at the Emera Oval, and set out to explore the vibrant Commons. After your adventures, unwind at the cozy and accessible Good Robot Beer Garden, where you can enjoy delicious food and drinks in a welcoming, wheelchair-friendly outdoor space.
Beaches with Mobi-Mats
Eastern Shore, Dartmouth-Cole Harbour, West End Halifax
Roll right onto the soft, golden sands of Clam Harbour and the sparkling lakeside retreat at Chocolate Lake, where walkers and wheelchairs are welcome to join in the beachside fun.
Boardwalk Adventures
Dartmouth-Cole Harbour
Take in the universally designed boardwalks at MacCormacks Beach and Fisherman’s Cove, where you can enjoy stunning coastal views, explore charming shops, and experience a welcoming atmosphere for all.
HRM ADAPTIVE EQUIPMENT RENTALS
Families can rent adaptive equipment, such as the Hippocampe with sled attachments or beach wheels— great for exploring Halifax’s picturesque beaches and breathtaking trails. Pickups can be conveniently arranged at your local recreation centre, making your next adventure easy and adaptive.
For the most current and detailed information on adaptive equipment rentals, it’s recommended to contact the facilities directly or reach out to the Halifax Regional Municipality’s Inclusion and Access Specialist at Inclusion@halifax.ca or call at 902-490-4410
What is Canadian food anyway?
How and what we eat is shaped by over 400 years of immigration and relationships between newcomers and Indigenous Peoples. This new exhibition, eat make share: a taste of immigration invites families to explore the connections between food and immigration in Canada through hands-on and multi-sensory activities. Discover the history behind your creation in the exhibition.
C’est quoi, de la nourriture « canadienne », de toute façon?
Notre alimentation est façonnée par plus de 400 ans d’immigration et de relations entre les nouveaux arrivants et les peuples autochtones. La nouvelle exposition à la table : le goût de l’immigration invite les familles à explorer les liens entre l’alimentation et l’immigration au Canada avec des activités pratiques et multisensorielles. Découvrez l’histoire de votre création dans l’exposition.
Colour the boxes with the corresponding colours. Can you uncover the famous Halifax food?
There’s always something new to learn and explore at the Museum. Visit us today! Scan for more info.
Coloriez les cases avec les couleurs correspondantes. Pouvez-vous découvrir le plat célèbre de Halifax ?
Il y a toujours plus à apprendre et à explorer au Musée. Visitez-nous dès aujourd’hui! Scannez pour plus information.
Staying at the Delta Dartmouth? Bring this completed colouring page with you for a complimentary treat at the make-your-own-sundae bar, available every Friday and Saturday evening from 5:30pm - 7:30pm
Don’t wait for adventure to find you - book your family getaway with Delta Dartmouth and create memorable family moments. Enjoy our waterslide, splash pad, and on-site restaurant.