Whether you’re visiting Halifax for the first time, are back to explore its incredible offerings, or enjoying a staycation close to home, we’ve mapped out a weekend full of Haligonian-approved activities for an epic East Coast weekend. From the city’s best eats and must-try specialties to day trips, sightseeing, sweet treats, and patio drinks, our itinerary is stacked with plenty of ideas and inspiration for your next long weekend getaway.
Pick and choose what calls to you or bookmark this page to keep our list handy!
Can’t Miss Morning Must-Haves
Fuel up for a weekend of exploring and start your day with brunch at Daryâ. Serving up a bold mosaic of coastal flavours, $9 mimosas and stunning waterfront views, visit on a Saturday and catch the live DJ at Casa Blanca Brunch! Need something to-go ahead of your day trip to Peggy’s Cove and Lunenburg? Stop by Bliss Caffeine Bar for a morning coffee, breakfast sandwich, or gourmet pop tart. Café by day and bistro by night, visit the counter at Café Lunette for a grab-and-go coffee, pastry, French-inspired sandwich, and more, all prepared fresh daily.
Set Sail to Dartmouth
A great way to see the city from a new vantage point is by hopping on the ferry for a quick ride to enjoy a few hours in Dartmouth. Once you’ve arrived, look for the O’Bees Food Market, located inside the Alderney Landing ferry terminal, and check out local produce at Noggins Corner Farm. Shop fresh fruits, vegetables, local cheeses, and meats and set up a picnic nearby with views of downtown Halifax across the water. Later, find your way to Lake City Cider on Portland Street, or enjoy local brews and bites on Battery Park’s secluded backyard patio.
Get a Lesson in Halifax History
A trip to Halifax must include a visit to the city’s historic Citadel Hill, a British fortification from the early 19th century. As lunchtime approaches, listen for ‘The Boom at Noon’ or ‘The Noon Gun’, a daily firing of the cannon that has been a tradition since 1857. A beautiful place to take a break from a busy day of sightseeing, grab a spot on the hill and enjoy scenes from atop the city. Looking to cover a lot of ground? Book a Harbour Hopper Tour and explore the best of both land and harbour! For the history of how beer is made, visit Alexander Keith’s for a brewery tour. While you’re there, check out the Halifax Seaport Farmers’ Market for edible souvenirs. Hot tip: if you love a good drink, try Drift’s unique The Boom at Noon cocktail, which combines Compass Noon Gun gin, nutmeg and juniper syrup, and cardamom bitters.
Break for a Sweet Treat
After a busy day of sightseeing, you’ve earned yourself something sweet! New to the Halifax waterfront, stop in at The Fog Company in Queen’s Marque for premium sweets and frozen treats handcrafted using quality ingredients and whimsical toppings. Try the melt-in-your-mouth soft serve adorned with everything from churros to candy sea glass and housemade ‘fog’, or opt for churned ice cream, fresh-from-the-oven cookies and delectable seasonal doughnuts. Keep your eye out for cute, four-legged friends lined up at the ‘dog parking’, where pups sit as they await their own dog treats!
Be One with Nature
Take in the views and harbour breeze at Point Pleasant Park, or enjoy the picturesque scenery as you hike your way through Victoria Park. Don’t stop there and stroll your way through the Halifax Public Gardens, taking in the colourful tulips, towering trees, and lush foliage. Nearby, visit Spring Garden Road, a popular shopping district where you can easily pop in and peruse shops as you please. For an even bigger boost of relaxation that goes beyond a nature walk, enjoy some me time at Sensea Nordic Spa, less than an hour outside the downtown core. Stimulating all the senses, its idyllic forested location offers stunning waterfront views alongside saunas, hammams, outdoor hot and cold baths, and more.
Nosh into the Night
Celebrate the weekend by enjoying the Halifax nightlife, offering incredible food, lively bars, and indulgent after-hours eats. Spend an evening at Peacock Wine Bar, serving an ever-evolving list of 90+ labels, including small-production and hard-to-find bottles as well as an extensive by-the-glass selection. Stop in for a sip and stay for the seasonal, tapas-style plates designed for sharing. Fire it up with friends at Salt + Ash Beach House and ride the Party Wave, also known as four shots of Fireball whisky served on a half surfboard… cheers! While downtown, why not check out some live music at one of Halifax’s many bustling watering holes? After a night of bar hopping, stop by the city’s notorious ‘pizza corner’ at the junction of Blowers Street and Grafton Street to try a Halifax staple donair or get your hands on some garlic fingers.
With these recommendations in mind, we hope you’ve been inspired to experience all that Halifax has to offer on your next long weekend adventure. Whether you’re a tourist, seasoned traveller, or local Haligonian, there are endless ways to explore! See you soon!
