During my recent cruise in the North Atlantic – Halifax was the last port stop before ending in Boston. It was our first visit to Nova Scotia and my husband and I were rewarded with a picture perfect summer day! We made the most of our day in Halifax with a combination of time on our own and taking a ship tour.
1. Remember the Titanic
Halifax is important to the Titanic as the recovery effort is based here and where numerous of the victims are buried. The Maritime Museum has an interesting section on the Titanic, with a few of the retrieved artifacts on display. It’s easy to visit the museum, as it’s a short walk from the cruise terminal on the waterfront. (it’s a small entry fee and reservations aren’t accepted). The Maritime Museum also has other interesting exhibits – I personally enjoyed the Cunard display and it was fun to learn/send morse code messages.
If Titanic history interests you – make a stop at the Fairview Cemetery to pay tribute to the victims buried here. It’s a humbling experience. I recommend you go as part of a tour to learn more about who is buried here and the efforts they’re still making to identify people.
2. Walk the Waterfront
You can easily spend a day along the waterfront in Halifax. There are numerous local shops for shopping and if you love seafood – this is the spot to grab lunch!
We ran out of time to visit the Canadian Museum of Immigration – it’s Canada’s “Ellis Island” where they welcomed immigrants. My husband and I met a lovely couple on our ship who had passed through Pier 21 as children emigrating from Italy. It was fascinating hearing the stories of their families!
One of the oldest markets in North America is also along the waterfront in Halifax. With over 200 vendors – you’re sure to find a locally sourced snack or souvenir to take with you!
3. Visit Peggy’s Cove
An hour from Halifax – don’t miss a visit to Peggy’s Cove! Since we were on a time crunch we took a ship tour… but you can also hire a driver or rent a car. If you’ve rented a car – there are numerous pretty coves to stop at along the way. You’ll recognize the picturesque Peggy’s Cove, as it’s home to one of the most photographed lighthouses in North America! Be prepared for big crowds – it’s a major tourist draw. Our tour guide said we were lucky with the sunshine and not being there on a busy day (I can hardly imagine what a busy day is!). Make sure you steer clear of walking along the beach or shoreline – it’s a dangerous spot with rogue waves. While wandering over the rocks we saw it being patrolled by locals with very loud whistles!
If you’re a lobster roll fan or just want to sample – this is the place. We opted for Peggy’s Dogs… and served by the friendliest lady (everyone is so welcoming in Newfoundland and Nova Scotia). Make sure you wander around the village as it’s just screaming at you to photograph it! There’s also some really nice shops with local artists’ wares.
I hope you get a chance to visit Halifax and the surrounding area! It’s a popular cruise ship stop, but is also a gorgeous area for a road trip.
If you’re interested more in Canada – you may also enjoy my article “3 Reasons You’ll Like the Marriott Montreal Chateau Champlain.”
Until the next adventure – bon voyage!
Kris
