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GUIDE Inspiration
for locals & visitors
You can’t keep
A GREAT CITY DOWN.
Halifax. Full of dreamers, strivers, doers, and believers. Together, as we venture out to experience everything we love about this place – we find a city that’s changed but somehow feels the same. Diverse. Beautiful. Bold. Renewed in the way we welcome each other and someday the world. A city filled with the heart and soul we all bring to making it one of the best little places on earth. Heart. Soul. Halifax!
@thecanteenns @dregrsi
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@halifaxfamily
@dregrsi
@theharbourwatercraft
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Message from the
MAYOR. The last few months have been incredibly challenging in many ways. The road ahead may be uncertain, but I have tremendous faith in the people of this place to overcome any challenge that comes our way. Many of us, myself included, have missed so much about the city we love, and now is the time to get back out and support the local businesses who are the backbone of our community.
@dairybarhfx
Together with our partners we are finding creative ways to open up more space and get people out and about safely. Services and amenities are starting to reopen, patios and sidewalk cafes are springing up and once again we see life coming back to our downtown streets and public spaces. This summer will be different than past ones, that much is clear. But it’s also the perfect opportunity to take the time to rediscover and share all the wonderful things in our own backyard, and to spend our leisure time and money right here at home, in our city and in this province. We are blessed with an incredible natural environment, world-class drinking and dining establishments and activities that people come from around the world to experience. There’s a reason Halifax was named a Travelers Choice Top 10 Global Tourist Destination by TripAdvisor! Whether you’re a local looking for “staycation” inspiration, a Nova Scotian planning a “nearcation” close to home, or a future visitor collecting ideas for vacations to come, we hope this guide will help you and your loved ones experience all that Halifax has to offer this summer and beyond. Opportunity awaits, so get out there and rediscover Halifax! @jakeescapes
Mayor Mike Savage
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Welcome to the inaugural issue of the Heart Soul Halifax Guide. Things have changed here in Halifax, as they have around the world. What hasn’t is that Halifax is still a vibrant, bold, beautiful place, and we are ready for locals and visitors to safely rediscover all the things they love most. his is why we’ve created a guide filled with ideas T and inspiration to help you explore the best of the Halifax region safely with day trips, weekend getaways, staycation ideas, hotel packages and plenty more vacation inspiration. As information can change quickly, it is always best to check directly with business websites for the latest information. Be aware of travel restrictions and public health and safety guidelines to keep each other and our destination safe.
your guide
to planning 02 HEART. SOUL. HALIFAX! 04 A MESSAGE FROM MAYOR MIKE SAVAGE 05 TABLE OF CONTENTS 06 BUY HALIFAX. BUILD HALIFAX. 08 REOPEN CITY 10 ITINERARIES 16 REGIONAL SPOTLIGHT: EASTERN SHORE 20 WHERE TO STAY
Stay tuned all summer for more local tips and new ideas to help you rediscover the heart and soul of the Halifax region.
22 PROVINCIAL PUBLIC HEALTH DIRECTIVES 23 CONTACT US
t . r s a o e u l. h a x h alif @soberislandbrewingco
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A Story of the
strivers, doers, BUY HALIFAX. BUILD HALIFAX. Local businesses are the backbone of our community. With travel restrictions and new public health guidelines, many of us are sticking close to home this summer. Let’s take advantage!
“When the pandemic hit and we had to shut down . . . we didn’t know what we were going to do.” Sam Holt CO-OWNER
Introducing Buy Halifax, an all-encompassing shop local movement. Show off your support for local by posting the Buy Halifax branding every time you purchase from a local retailer, restaurant, hotel or more. Get on board by using our hashtag #ImOnBoardNS for your chance to be featured on our social media pages. When we buy Halifax, we build Halifax. Let’s dine, shop, buy and vacation local.
WHO’S ON BOARD? Brought to you by the Halifax Chamber of Commerce and Discover Halifax.
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KEPT IS ON BOARD This is the story of Kept, a Downtown Dartmouth gift shop that brought a whole lot of love to sociallydistanced locals with their Vend & Send greeting card vending machine at the Alderney Landing Ferry Terminal.
, movers & shakers “The pandemic is presenting us with a paradigm shift . . . and it will be a challenge to navigate it successfully..”
“They deserve more than a beer, but that’s about all we can give them” Nick Ogden OPERATIONS MANAGER
Graham Collins PRESIDENT
@compassdistillers
@2crowsbrewing
COMPASS DISTILLERS IS ON BOARD
2 CROWS BREWING IS ON BOARD
This is the story of Compass Distillers, a North End craft distillery that pivoted their business to produce hand-sanitizer, helping Nova Scotians stay safe and healthy.
This is the story of 2 Crows Brewing Co., a craft brewery located in Downtown Halifax that created a way for customers to buy beer for the city’s frontline workers - after all, those fighting the good fight deserve a great pint!
IF YOU’RE ON BOARD TO SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESSES, USE #IMONBOARDNS TO SHARE YOUR EXPERIENCES WITH HALIFAX’S INCREDIBLE LOCAL BUSINESSES. Local business story content sourced from Halifax Chamber of Commerce and The Coast.
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DISCOVERHALIFAXNS.COM All Photos Michelle Doucette Photography Instagram @michelle.doucette.photography
RE-OPEN CITY
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The best
Itineraries
for your summer vacation A summer of rediscovery in your own backyard awaits! We invite you to explore the hidden gems of the Halifax region with these newly created itineraries. From biking getaways to secluded waterfalls, hidden history to amazing beaches, there is so much to experience. Happy exploring!
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Halifax Citadel Hill at Sackville & Brunswick @maritimeriver
1 in the park DAYCATION
tea party
@redheadinhfx
Spend an afternoon exploring the enchanting gardens nestled in the heart of Halifax.
@battaglia_r
THE PLAN
• Visit the Rabbit Hole Café for a sweet afternoon tea of brightlycoloured cakes and a selection of teas, coffees and other drinks. • Take a stroll in the magical Halifax Public Gardens. • Finish with an ice cream from the Dairy Bar, just across the street from the Gardens.
BONUS
The Bengal Lancers stable is just up the street - if you’re lucky, you might get the chance to wave hello to the horses!
TURN IT INTO A STAYCATION PACK & PREP
Book a room at the Lord Nelson Hotel & Suites, a grand hotel that has overlooked the Public Gardens for nearly a century.
You can travel light for this afternoon outing, but a book, a game, or a sketchbook might all come in handy for a fun activity sitting in the grass of the Gardens. Fortunately,
SEE THE FULL DETAILED
Canada’s oldest children’s
ITINERARY HERE & START PLANNING
bookstore is located right
YOUR MAGICAL AFTERNOON TEA.
around the corner! Woozles
@nat.jarvis
Childrens Bookstore has a fantastic selection of books, toys, games and many more
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kid-approved treasures. @amberl33p_
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Decompress in
downtown dartmouth
SEE THE FULL DETAILED ITINERARY HERE & START PLANNING YOUR DARTMOUTH DAYCATION.
Relax and restore with a chilled-out Downtown Dartmouth Daycation, perfect for a family day out, reconnecting with friends, or a little solo serenity in this funky urban community. PACK & PREP
Make sure to bring $5.50 for ferry fare ($2.75 each way)
THE PLAN
• If you’re starting in Halifax, hop aboard the Alderney Ferry for a 15-minute cruise over to Downtown Dartmouth • Brunch at The Canteen on Portland Street • Stroll through Downtown Dartmouth to Sullivan’s Pond to sit and relax in the park • Explore the shops of Downtown Dartmouth on your way back to the Ferry
TURN IT INTO A STAYCATION
Stay overnight at the DoubleTree by Hilton Halifax Dartmouth for some truly breathtaking views of the harbour and the Halifax skyline at night.
@tonedef84
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DISCOVERHALIFAXNS.COM @trainyardstore
@thecanteenns
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Daycation
OFF-THE-GRID
EASTERN SHORE GETAWAY Take a break from the day-to-day routine and unplug with an off-the-grid afternoon on Halifax’s untouched Eastern Shore. @pagemasterservices
b oi t H
a rb o u r
in
do
sq uo u M
THE PLAN
• Start the scenic drive down the Eastern Shore toward Taylor Head Provincial Park. • On your way, pick up some snacks at Uprooted Market & Cafe in Musquodoboit Harbour to enjoy as a picnic lunch on the beach. • Head out for a hike at Taylor Head Provincial Park - we recommend the Bob Bluff Trail for jaw-dropping vistas of Mushaboom Harbour along the way. • Relax on the beach at Psyche Cove and enjoy your picnic lunch.
BONUS
Stop at Sober Island Brewing Co. in Sheet Harbour for a post-hike beer or a growler to go before heading home.
@jakesescapes
SEE THE FULL DETAILED ITINERARY HERE & START PLANNING YOUR OFF-THE-GRID GETAWAY NOW.
DISCOVERHALIFAXNS.COM @soberislandbrewingco
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Lobster Rolls & Secret Shores
@shawslanding
THE PLAN
WHERE TO STAY:
Make the Harbourview Inn in West Dover your staycation homebase - right across the street from Shaw’s Landing.
BONUS: @ecokayakns
• Terence Bay is home to some of the best sea kayaking in Nova Scotia. East Coast Outfitters offers tours and rentals so you can experience dramatic granite islands and coves of beautiful Lower Prospect from upclose!
SEE THE FULL DETAILED ITINERARY HERE & START PLANNING YOUR STAYCATION NOW.
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en
• First, grab a treat at White Sails Bakery & Deli in Tantallon. • Then head to the tiny, perfect Sandy Cove Beach for a swim or a stroll. • Head out for dinner at Shaw’s Landing, a small, locally-owned, family restaurant serving up fresh authentic East Coast meals, including plenty of beer and lobster!
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y t he o j
ws
Explore the Peggy’s Cove area like a local with a day at a secluded beach and a fresh seafood lunch at a locally-owned hidden gem.
vie
@shawslanding
o ce a n
Staycation 1
Staycation 2 The Halifax Region
SEE THE FULL DETAILED ITINERARY & START PLANNING YOUR GRAND TOUR ROAD TRIP ROUTE NOW.
Grand Tour Road Trip Route #1 Did you know that the Halifax Regional Municipality (HRM) is as big as the whole island of PEI? Find out just how big it is on the first edition of our Grand Tour Road Trip Routes series. Look for more Grand Tour Road Trip Routes in the weeks to come!
@em_scapades
THE PLAN
• Head for Hubbards, on the southern edge of the HRM to explore the area’s beaches, and enjoy a swim in the clear waters of St. Margaret’s Bay. • Stop in for lunch at the Trellis Café in Hubbards. • Next, head inland to Uniacke Estate Museum Park, where you can explore the 930 acres of grounds and walking trails of this elegant country estate built by prominent Nova Scotian John Uniacke. • Discover the Musquodoboit River at Dollar Lake Provincial Park where you’ll find secluded beaches, trails and a picnic area. • Take the day to explore the dramatic landscapes of the Eastern Shore and 100 Wild Islands as you make your leisurely way back to Halifax.
@wineandpine
WHERE TO STAY:
We highly recommend staying overnight between one (or all) of the communities you visit to give you even more time to explore! Here are a few suggestions for this particular route: • Stay near Hubbards: Anchorage House & Cottage • Stay on the Eastern Shore: Murphy’s Camping on the Ocean @uniackeestatemuseum
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Regional
SPOTLIGHt Eastern Shore Known for its untouched wilderness, white sand beaches, windswept headlands and wild islands, Nova Scotia’s Eastern Shore is the perfect place to get off the grid and explore the coast. Visitors to the area will find fresh seafood, incredible birdwatching, and some of the best surfing on the east coast of North America.
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DISCOVERHALIFAXNS.COM @jakesescapes
@katiesiri
REGIONAL SPOTLIGHT
EAstern Shore trails to discover Drive from Downtown Halifax: 45 min Distance: 15km Difficulty: Moderate-Difficult What to expect: Spectacular look-off views
TAYLOR HEAD PROVINCIAL PARK
Drive from Downtown Halifax: 1 hr 30 min Distance: 14km trail system Difficulty: Various trails Easy to Difficult What to expect: Rugged wind-swept peninsula jutting six and a half kilometres (4 miles) into the Atlantic Ocean
CROWBAR LAKE HIKING TRAIL
EASTERN SHORE
MUSQUODOBOIT TRAILWAY
ATLANTIC VIEW TRAIL
Drive from Downtown Halifax: 35 min Distance: 10km Difficulty: Easy - Moderate What to expect: Coastal greenway on a former rail bed with minimal elevation and varied terrain.
PORTERS LAKE PROVINCIAL PARK
Drive from Downtown Halifax: 40 min Distance: Five trails less than 1km each Difficulty: Easy What to expect: Easy strolling through a nice park on Porter’s Lake, that also has a campsite.
@lorisimmondz
@scrunnisb
Drive from Downtown Halifax: 40 min Distance: 5 different trails and 4 seperate loops, extending over 18km. Difficulty: Difficult What to expect: Challenging back country hiking with rewarding scenery.
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Must-Visit Beaches No matter what you’re into, relaxing, nature, or adventure, these beaches have something for everyone.
Rainbow Haven
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Beach
Drive from Downtown Halifax: 30 min Features • Accessible: Y • Public Restrooms: Y • Showers: Y • Supervised swimming (seasonal): Y Great for: Families
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@alina__mac
@fares_foto
@jazzdort4
@_michele_parent_
clam Harbour Beach
Drive from Downtown Halifax: 60-75 min Features • Accessible: Y • Public Restrooms: Y • Showers: Y • Supervised swimming (seasonal): Y Great for: Building sandcastles
Lawrencetown
Beach
Drive from Downtown Halifax: 35-40 min Features • Accessible: N • Public Restrooms: Y • Showers: Y • Supervised swimming (seasonal): Y Great for: Surfing
Martinique Beach
Drive from Downtown Halifax: 55 min Features • Accessible: Y • Public Restrooms: Y • Showers: N • Supervised swimming (seasonal): Y Great for: Bird watching
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Make it a Getaway from the
everyday Fox Harb’r Resort SUMMER STAY & PLAY GOLF
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Packages & deals designed for locals and maritimers to enjoy summer staycations close to home.
Halifax Marriott
Four Points
HEART. SOUL. HALIFAX! STAYCATION PACKAGE
ATLANTIC BUBBLE RATE
Harbourfront Hotel
215
$199
BOOK NOW
BOOK NOW
$
Starting at
/night
Lord Nelson
Starting at
The Prince George Hotel
LOVE LOCAL Starting at
249*
$
/night
See website for rates*
BOOK NOW
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GOOD NEIGHBOUR PACKAGE Complimentary upgrade, subject to availability
BOOK NOW
by Sheraton
30%
off your stay BOOK NOW
Quality Inn Halifax Airport Hotel STAYCATION PACKAGE
$115 Starting at
CALL 902-873-3000
Visit HeartSoulHalifax.com to find even more overnight deals!
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Hotel Halifax- Bedfordl
ATLANTIC CANADA RESIDENT RATE
Book 2+ nights (minimum) and
save 15%
Hotel Halifax
Inn on the Lake
ATLANTIC GETAWAY PROMOTION
STAYCATION PACKAGE
$109 Starting at
BOOK NOW
Residence Inn Halifax Downtown SWING INTO SUMMER RATE
$179
BOOK NOW
The Halliburton SUMMER IN THE GARDEN Starting at
$239
Starting at
BOOK NOW
Terms & Conditions apply
CALL 1-(888)-512-3344
$190 Starting at
BOOK NOW
The Hollis Halifax ESSENTIAL EXTRAS RATE
Pay when you stay * See website for rates
BOOK NOW
Please Note: Terms & Conditions apply, subject to availability prices do not include tax. Check the hotel’s website for details on these and other staycation packages.
DISCOVERHALIFAXNS.COM @yijie.w.wang
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As always, maintain social distancing where possible and wash your hands frequently. Wear a mask when you can’t keep your distance. Click here for more information on staying healthy.
Thi
When rediscovering the Halifax region, be aware of travel restrictions and follow all public health and safety guidelines to help keep everyone safe. We encourage you to check ahead with any business you intend to visit to ensure they are open and familiarize yourself with their safety protocols. A little planning can help you get the best experience possible and avoid disappointment.
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Outdoor Activities • • • • •
Outdoor playgrounds are open. Provincial and private campgrounds open.* Public pools can reopen.* Golf courses are open.* Beaches, trails and parks are open.
Experience Halifax • • • •
Restaurants are open. * Liquor Licensed establishments can reopen.* Retail remains open with restrictions. Select museums and attractions are now open.*
Gatherings • Gathering limit without social distancing: 10 people max. • Gathering limit with social distancing (begins July 3 – applies to businesses & organizations only): • Outdoors: Max 250 people • Indoors: 50% capacity to a max 200 people.
Travel Restrictions • Non-essential travel within the province of NS is permitted. • Atlantic Travel Bubble: Interprovincial travel within NS, NB, PEI and NL, without the requirement to self isolate for Atlantic Canadian residents, is permitted starting Friday, July 3 • Travel from other Canadian provinces is permitted but self-isolation for 14 days is required. • Non-essential travel to Canada is restricted with some exceptions. • Visit www.travel.gc.ca for more information.
* Some restrictions in place. Must follow the Health Protection Act and their sector-specific plan.
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Find the latest information on COVID-19 restrictions at novascotia.ca/coronavirus/restriction-updates
n eed t
Health Guidelines How to Experience Halifax Safely
y n g s ou
o k no w
Public
t . r s a o e u l. h a x h alif
@nomadgab
The Heart Soul Halifax Guide is provided by Discover Halifax with input from our many tourism and industry partners. Every effort has been made to make this publication as accurate as possible. As information can change quickly, it is always best to check with businesses directly for the most up-to-date and
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accurate information. Discover Halifax assumes no responsibility for error, changes, or omissions.
#discoverhalifax @discoverhalifax @discoverhalifax @hfxnovascotia discoverhalifaxns.com
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@osbornecody
@dairybarhfx