Halifax, the vibrant, bustling capital of Nova Scotia, is always brimming with activities, things to do and sights to see. From its storied past to its lively cultural scene, there's no shortage of things to explore. And the best part? Many of these experiences don't cost a dime. Here’s your ultimate guide to 100 (mostly free) things to do in Halifax.
1. Stroll along the Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk.
2. Hike the paths at Point Pleasant Park.
3. Explore the Halifax Public Gardens.
4. Visit Peggy's Cove.
5. Bike the Chain of Lakes Trail.
6. Walk the Dartmouth Waterfront.
7. Picnic at Sir Sandford Fleming Park.
8. Watch the sunset at Herring Cove.
9. Get colourful at the Halifax Colour Festival.
10. Tour the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site (free admission on Canada Day).
11. Visit the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic on free admission nights.
12. Explore the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 (free admission on certain holidays).
13. Discover the history at the Fairview Lawn Cemetery (Titanic victims' resting place).
14. Attend the Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo Parade.
15. Enjoy the Halifax Jazz Festival's free outdoor concerts.
16. Participate in Nocturne: Art at Night (free city-wide art event).
17. Check out local art at the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia on free admission Thursday nights.
18. Experience the Halifax Busker Festival (tips are encouraged).
19. Join in the celebrations during Halifax Pride.
20. Check out local farmers' markets like the Halifax Seaport Farmers' Market.
21. Enjoy the festive lights, events, and market during the Evergreen Festival.
22. Attend the Halifax Lights Festival.
23. Visit and tour Province House, home of the Nova Scotia House of Assembly.
24. Visit Georges Island (free admission – to the Island - on Canada Day).
25. Participate in free workshops and events at Halifax Central Library.
26. Celebrate Canada Day with fireworks and events across the city.
27. Visit the Dingle Tower with its stunning views.
28. Explore McNabs Island.
29. Birdwatch at the Cole Harbour Salt Marsh Trail.
30. Wander through the York Redoubt National Historic Site.
31. Visit the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame.
32. Take scenic photos at the Bedford Basin.
33. Skate for free at the Emera Oval (winter ice skating, summer rollerblading).
34. Play baseball at the Halifax Commons.
35. Join a free yoga session at the waterfront during summer.
36. Watch a local amateur sports game.
37. Explore the Halifax Public Library.
38. Tour the HMCS Sackville.
39. Take a picturesque stroll through Shubie Park.
40. Enjoy the architecture and stained glass at St. Paul's Church.
41. See the city from a unique perspective with a walk across the Angus L. Macdonald Bridge.
42. Discover hidden gems on a self-guided street art tour.
43. Visit the Africville Museum and learn about the history of the Africville community (children under 5 are free).
44. Take a self-guided tour of the Halifax Explosion sites and memorials.
45. Attend a free concert or event at the Halifax Pavilion.
46. Walk through the Historic Properties and admire the architecture.
47. Enjoy a day of fun and relaxation at Chocolate Lake Beach.
48. Stroll along Spring Garden Road.
49. Explore the trails and natural beauty of Long Lake Provincial Park.
50. Visit the Fisherman's Cove, a picturesque 200-year-old fishing village.
51. Attend the Halifax-Dartmouth Natal Day celebrations, including parades and fireworks.
52. Explore the Shearwater Aviation Museum to learn about Canada's naval aviation history.
53. Stroll through the Victorian-era Mount Olivet Cemetery.
54. Discover the Little Dutch (Deutsch) Church National Historic Site of Canada.
55. Participate in community clean-up days at local parks and beaches.
56. Explore the Halifax Harbour via the Harbourwalk Trail.
57. Visit Sullivan's Pond to see the geese and enjoy the serene environment.
58. Enjoy the street performances and artists along the waterfront.
59. Take in the panoramic city views from Fort Needham Memorial Park.
60. Attend a free workshop or event offered by local community centres.
61. Fish the Halifax Harbour – from the Halifax Waterfront.
62. Explore the Bayers Lake Mystery Walls.
63. Visit the Scott Manor House, a colonial-era house and museum.
64. Attend the Quinpool Road Summer Fest for family-friendly activities.
65. Take part in Open City.
66. Watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony at the Halifax Citadel.
67. Explore the urban wilderness at the Blue Mountain-Birch Cove Lakes area.
68. Enjoy a leisurely walk on the Bedford-Sackville Greenway Trail.
69. Meet the falcon representing Atlantic Falconry Services (on the Halifax Waterfront).
70. Enjoy the Light up Bedford Parade.
71. Explore the Mainland Common Park, including the off-leash dog park and sports facilities.
72. Participate in a free art class or activity at the local library branches.
73. Explore the Dartmouth Commons, offering beautiful green spaces and a community garden.
74. Take part in the annual Quinpool Road Pet Parade.
75. Hun fun at the colourful Submarine (Children's) Playground.
76. Attend a poetry reading or open mic night at local cafes or bookstores (buy food & drinks).
77. Enjoy the views from the Dartmouth Waterfront Park.
78. Take a historical walking tour of the Quaker House in Dartmouth.
79. Attend the New Year's Day levee held at Halifax City Hall.
80. Attend the Northern Lights Lantern Festival.
81. Visit the Peace Pavilion in Dartmouth to learn about global peace movements.
82. Stroll through the Hydrostone Market and admire the unique architecture and local shops.
83. Attend Bedford Days.
84. Alley-oop at the Commons Skate Park.
85. Stroll through Downtown Dartmouth.
86. Attend in the Holiday Parade of Lights.
87. Take a leisurely walk around the Northwest Arm and enjoy the scenic views.
88. Visit the Halifax Town Clock for a photo op and learn about its history.
89. Explore the various art installations and murals throughout downtown Halifax.
90. Visit the campuses of Dalhousie University and Saint Mary's University for their historical and architectural significance.
91. Go back in time at the Fultz House Museum.
92. Walk Quinpool Road – check out the amazing murals!
93. Take a snooze on the Halifax Waterfront Hammocks.
94. Attend the Halifax Pride Parade.
95. Join a free fitness class offered at various community centres or outdoor spaces during summer.
96. Watch or dance Salsa on the Halifax Waterfront (free intro class).
97. Enjoy a free Community Summer BBQ.
98. Cook up a meal at The Park Avenue Community Oven.
99. Hike Duncan’s Cove.
100. Cool off with a swim at the Halifax Common Aquatics Facility.
From the bustling waterfront to serene parks, historic sites, and vibrant cultural events, Halifax offers a plethora of activities to fill your itinerary without emptying your wallet – or bank account. Whether you're a local rediscovering your city or a visitor experiencing Halifax's charm for the first time, there's always something new and exciting to explore. Dive into the heart of Nova Scotia and make unforgettable memories with these 100 things to do in Halifax!
