A Day Strolling the Halifax Harbor

Sights, Sounds and Activities of this Maritime Harbor

Oct 5, 2008 Lisa Cucciniello

A stroll of Halifax Harbor is the perfect way to soak all this Maritime town has to offer. From Pier 21to the Casino, this Harbor Walk has something for everyone.

One of the largest natural harbors in the world, Halifax Harbor is rich with history. From the American Revolution to World War II, this harbor often served as a lookout point for ships coming into Canada. Tourists today can enjoy a stroll along the Harbor and absorb all of what Halifax has to offer.

The Halifax Harbor Stroll

This 3 mile walk is the perfect way to spend a day. While short in distance there is much to enjoy along the way. Begin at Pier 21, Canada’s equivalent to the US Ellis Island, where many immigrants entered the Canadian border either as war orphans, post World War II brides, or refugees of the Hungarian Revolution. Continue on and watch the fishing boats enter and leave the harbor, hop on one of the many whale watching tours, watch the buskers’ performances, and enjoy the freshest seafood possible. The walk ends at Halifax Casino, where the daring can try a bit of luck and perhaps extend their vacation with their winnings.

Sights to See Along the Way

Pier 21 - Adult admission is $9.50, with a valid student ID $6. Guided tours include a 42 minute movie detailing the history of the Pier as well as an hour tour of the museum. Several volunteers who lead the tours have themselves passed through Pier 21. Many personal stories are related as one quickly discovers that those along the tour came through Pier 21 as well.

Film Showings - In the summer, films are shown outdoors on Friday evenings beginning at about 7pm. Admission is free and the movies vary each week. Location is the side of a cement building about 1/10 of a mile into the walk, past Pier 21; look for signage as the location changes. Seating is on first come first serve basis.

Whale Watching - Many touring companies run whale watching tours so be wary of which you chose. Many leave every 2 hours or so. While the more pricey excursions are about $25, they could be a let down. The Sea Tiger boasts a whale watching tour which is really a boat ride to a specific point in the harbor and back, in the hope that a whale passes by. There is no waiting for the whales to come to the area. Ask around, read the brochures and don’t be tempted to buy from the first vendor who thrusts a pamphlet in your face.

Buskers’ Festival - This annual festival runs about 6 weeks in the summer, beginning sometime in the 1st week of August. Street performers and vendors from across Canada come and perform and sell all along the harbor. Shows are free, though there are requests for donations to help support the arts and artists performing. The shows vary from day to day, so be sure to pick up a schedule which is handed out along the harbor.

Halifax Casino - Ending the walk is Halifax Casino where one can eat, gamble and enjoy the view. Diners can eat inside or outside. Be sure to have a valid ID with you as you will not be admitted unless you can show proof of age.

Some of the Harbor's Cuisine

A variety of seafood options are available and one can’t get fish fresher that what was just caught and sailed back the harbor. Whether your taste is Fish ‘n Chips, raw clams, or shrimp in the rough, there are many places that carry the freshest catches. Prices are all comparable to each other unless a place is running a daily special. There are also many sweet shops, especially on the Pier 21 end; stop in for the freshest fudge and maple candy possible.

The copyright of the article A Day Strolling the Halifax Harbor in E Canada Travel is owned by Lisa Cucciniello. Permission to republish A Day Strolling the Halifax Harbor in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

Halifax Harbor