Flying from Palm Springs to Halifax, Nova Scotia, for an adventure might sound extravagant to some. However, my experiences in Halifax were extraordinary, and I can’t help but sing its praises, thus proving that the flight across the country was well worth it.
By Kathy Condon
@palmspringsinsiderguide
www.linkedin.com/in/kathycondon/
As the capital of the largest municipality in Atlantic Canada, Halifax gained international recognition due to its proximity to the sinking of the Titanic, which occurred 700 miles east of this city. Today, it is a popular stop for cruise ships, especially in the fall when the waterfront is adorned with colorful autumn foliage.
If you arrive by plane, you’ll land at Halifax Stanfield International Airport, which is 33 miles from the city. To get to downtown Halifax, you must rent a car, hire a taxi, or use Uber or Lyft. The airport is easy to navigate and offers a variety of dining options when you are ready to leave for your flight back to your home.
Four days in Halifax hardly scratches the surface of everything to do in this charming city. However, I want to share what I discovered while exploring the city that embraces its British traditions and is placing its modern marks on this destination.
Exploring the Waterfront
Halifax’s 2.5-mile-long boardwalk beckons you to take a leisurely stroll and discover the surprises around each bend. Nothing is more beautiful than walking on the water’s edge a brilliant Canadian sunny day glistening on the harbor.
Along the way, you’ll encounter children laughing with delight as they slide down a ship-themed slide. It’s an ideal spot to relax, enjoy a drink, and watch ships as they come and go from Halifax Harbor to the Atlantic Ocean.
If you happen to be in Halifax during the weekend, the Halifax Seaport Farmers’ Market is a must-visit. Here, local fishermen bring their fresh catches of the day, offering a perfect opportunity to purchase seafood, including delicious oysters. Local farmers showcase their fresh produce, and it’s an excellent chance to interact with the friendly Nova Scotians.
Pier 21 is a historical site that houses the Canadian Museum of Immigration and provides insights into Canada’s immigration history.
The Maritime Museum of the Atlantic offers a view of the maritime life of Halifax. Learn about small craft building, its role in world wars, and the Titanic sinking.
You will want to take some time to explore Queen’s Marque. A large complex designed and built by the Armour Group, this mixed-use area is quickly becoming a community gathering place.
If you are fortunate, you will be there when music fills the air. The expansive open-air space was explicitly built to host various events for the public to enjoy, and–restaurants touting food from the different ethnic groups that make up Halifax line the perimeter of the square.
Need a break? Stop by Peace by Chocolate for one of your favorite indulges, and then head to Café Lunette for coffee and relax as long as you want.
Purdy’s Wharf is a contemporary office complex that stands tall on the edge of Halifax Harbor. With its two towers and adjacent smaller office structure called Purdy’s Landing, it’s an architectural wonder. When the sun reflects off its windows, it becomes a distinctive landmark in the harbor.
A Day Trip Worth Taking
If you have a car, a trip toward the town of Wolfville will help you see some of the Canadian countryside, eat well, taste wine, and learn a great deal. It is about a 45-minute drive from downtown Halifax.
The Lightfoot & Wolfville Vineyards create small batches of wine from the organic and biodynamic vineyards. How can you go wrong with quality wines and a restaurant known for its wood-fired pizzas? With the co-owner being a sommelier, you will be sure to pick up some nuances about wine to help you sound even more knowledgeable at your next cocktail party.
After a hearty lunch, head to Tangled Garden. Beverly McClare has created a world where you can learn about combining herbs and fruit to make gourmet jellies and liquors.
Walk the path through the 2-½ acre garden, which showcases herbs, fruit trees, flowers, and delightful places to drink your favorite tea from the small tea house. If you are fortunate, Beverly herself will lead you through this garden. Half the fun is watching her sharing her knowledge and love for the space.
Evening in Halifax
Watching the sunset over the Atlantic with a cocktail in hand makes for a memorable experience. Then, as darkness sets in, the ships’ lights in the harbor sparkle against the backdrop of the water.
There are many dining options, with fresh seafood prevalent on any menu. If you enjoy fresh oysters on the shell, you will be in heaven here. However, if your tastes go to trying various ethnic foods, you can eat a different cuisine every night.
Dinner at Salt + Ash, perched on the water’s edge, is the perfect place to appreciate live-fire cooking in a casual atmosphere.
Bar Sofia is a nod towards Chef Walsh’s Argentinian heritage and is the perfect place to order small plates.
Drift, located near the lobby of Muir Hotel, had people raving about their blueberry pancakes. They were delicious—ask me how I know.
Darya in Queen’s Marque is the perfect place if you are looking for a Mediterranean dining option.
Places to Stay in Halifax
The Muir, Autograph Collection by Marriott Bonvoy delivers on its 5-star status. The staff makes you feel honored regardless of how or when you arrive. Every aspect of the hotel has been carefully thought out, from the construction of local granite to all products in the rooms chosen for their sustainability.
The Lord Nelson Hotel & Suites is near the shopping center and the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site.
Other Things to Do in Halifax
Take a boat to George Island across from the waterfront. Much folklore is associated with the island, and it is an excellent place for the family to follow paths to the tunnels and remnants of forts.
The Halifax Harbour Hopper Tour lets one see the land and the sea on a renovated amphibious Vietnam War vehicle.
The Public Gardens is a place of tranquility—the oldest Victorian garden in North America. You will want to take your time to wander on these beautiful grounds designated as a national historic site.
When I left on the journey to Halifax, Nova Scotia, I had high hopes, for I was ready to explore the area’s culture, eat its local food, and take in the beauty I felt was awaiting me.
After spending four days, I unequivocally say this beautiful area exceeded my expectations. I am fully aware I was in the countryside in only one direction, and there is much more to explore downtown. I plan to return. Did I convince you to put it on your bucket list?
7 Best Things to Do in Halifax
- Walk the Boardwalk
- Visit Public Gardens
- Have a cup of coffee at Cafe Lunette
- Listen to music at Queen’s Marque
- Tour the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic
- Have a cocktail at Salt + Ash at sunset
- Take a boat to George Island
About The Writer
Kathy Condon is a journalist, travel writer, and award-winning author. Her niche is writing about luxury experiences and communities living in the shadows of larger cities. Kathy@kathycondon.net www.PalmSpringsInsiderGuide.com
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November 2023 | Life Lovers Magazine.
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