Summer Weekend Getaway to Halifax, Nova Scotia
Best Things to Do during Summertime in this Maritime Capital
Apr 14, 2009
A Halifax weekend getaway makes the perfect summer escape. At just a two-hour flight from either New York or Toronto, Nova Scotia offers a fresh take on summer with a warm local culture and many outdoor activities. Visitors can venture to the bustle of the Halifax Farmers’ Market, the quiet and clean sands of Halifax beaches, or the historic sites of a city founded in 1749.
Arriving in Halifax on a Friday evening visitors can be sure that the Halifax nightlife will deliver fun. For a relaxed first-evening in town, catch live music at a local pub. Live shows are common at:
- The Old Triangle (5136 Prince St.)
- Bearly’s House of Blues (1269 Barrington St.)
- Ginger’s Tavern (1662 Barrington St.)
- Gus’ Pub (2605 Agricola St.)
Savor a Weekend Getaway with at the Halifax Farmers’ Market
Bright and early on Saturdays, the Halifax Farmers’ Market becomes a center of local activity. Head there early to savor the tastes of cinnamon buns, fresh crêpes, and coffee while perusing the local produce and crafts from small Nova Scotia producers. From pies to mittens, the Halifax Farmers’ Market brings the best of Nova Scotia to the city.
Currently the market runs weekly at the Keith’s Brewery Building, 1496 Lower Water Street, but long-term plans include moving the market to the Halifax Seaport District. After exploring the warren-like layout of the market, head to the neighboring Alexander Keith’s Brewery for a Nova Scotia brewery tour and tasting.
Things to Do in Halifax: Beach Day Trips, Public Gardens Tours
Relaxing at a Halifax beach is always a great way spend a weekend afternoon. Point Pleasant Park’s Black Rock Beach lies within walking distance of downtown, while the surf breaks and amazing sands at Lawrencetown Beach and Martinique Beach require a vehicle to access.
Another fantastic summertime activity within Halifax's downtown area includes admiring the manicured flowerbeds while walking the winding paths at the Halifax Public Gardens. Now a treasured Victorian garden, the Halifax Public Gardens have historical roots that dig back to 1867. After a leisurely stroll, catch an evening performance of Shakespeare by the Sea in Point Pleasant Park.
Dine on Fresh Seafood as Halifax Restaurants during a Weekend Getaway
Fresh air inspires hunger, so indulge in a feast of fresh Halifax seafood. Salty’s on the Waterfront (1869 Upper Water St.) serves up great eats on an expansive waterfront patio with views of the harbor and historic Halifax. Or, head to the Five Fishermen (1740 Argyle St.) for the mussel buffet enjoyed in a haunted Halifax building.
Scenic Views on a Halifax Harbor Ferry Ride
Take a Sunday morning ferry ride on Nova Scotia’s version of the Staten Island Ferry. A ride across the Halifax Harbor costs about $2 and once on the Dartmouth side of the harbor visitors can enjoy a waterfront stroll while savoring unique views of Citadel Hill and downtown Halifax.
After traveling back across the harbor, spend the afternoon enjoying the historic Citadel Hill, Maritime folk art at the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia, or one of the many Halifax museums such as the Maritime Museum or the Atlantic or Pier 21 immigration museum.
Planning a Halifax Weekend Getaway
Major airlines provide direct flights to the Halifax International Airport from New York, Toronto, and Montreal. A 30-minute drive or quick shuttle journey provides fairly traffic-free access to downtown.
Many Halifax hotels are situated amidst Halifax’s small downtown area. The Westin Nova Scotian (1181 Hollis St.) overlooks Halifax Harbor and George’s Island, while the Lord Nelson (1515 South Park St.) offers a lush vantage of the Halifax Public Gardens.
Overall Halifax rates as delightful, active destination for a summer weekend getaway.
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