HALIFAX – One of Canada’s most striking waterfronts. Cutting-edge restaurants. And emerging, hip neighbourhoods. Halifax is one the top cities in Canada, a tremendous destination that serves as the symbolic capital of the four provinces that make up Atlantic Canada. Here’s a look at some great things to see and do in the area, which is easily reached from a number of cities via Air Canada.
THE WATERFRONT
Halifax has a gleaming waterfront, with a tremendous boardwalk that stretches for several kilometres. You’ll find a wide array of restaurants and shops, as well as places for kids to play. Children will love the Theodore Too boat; an old tug done up like a toy that ferries you around the city’s magnificent harbour. Adults and kids both will enjoy a ride on the Tall Ship Silva. If you’d rather stay o land, try a Segway ride on the waterfront with Segway Nova Scotia. The Halifax Seaport Farmer’s Market is said to the oldest continuously operated market in North America. The waterfront also is home to Garrison Brewing, where you can sample locally made beer.
EMERGING DARTMOUTH
Easily reached via a short ferry ride, Dartmouth has become a hip and happening suburb in the past couple years. New Scotland Yard is a building that houses a barber/hair styling place, a coffee shop and a record/CD store. Halifax singer/songwriter Joel Plaskett is said to be a frequent visitor. Around the corner is a pretty home décor and gift shot called Kept, featuring cocktail guides, children’s books, beachy signs, candles and more. The Canteen is a wonderful restaurant that’s famous for its “crobster” sandwiches, with lobster and crab on a toasted bun. I’m told the chocolate croissants are truly amazing at a nearby coffee shop called Two if by Sea.
IMMIGRANT HISTORY AND THE TITANIC
The Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 tells marvellous stories about how future Canadians arrived in the country under trying conditions. It’s a mesmerizing story of ups and downs and highs and lows and of tremendous courage from folks who gave up almost everything they had for the chance at a new life in North America. Of course, some folks who headed to the new country never made it. The Maritime Museum of the Atlantic includes displays on the ill-fated Titanic. More than 100 Titanic victims are buried at Fairview Lawn Cemetery in Halifax.
FOOD AND DRINK
Press Gang is a marvellous downtown place for seafood, located in the lower level of a building that dates back several hundred years. You’ll find old wooden beams and original exposed brick, as well as excellent scallops and other dishes. Two Doors Down is a casual, fun spot in downtown Halifax. Located on the waterfront, Du Maurizio is a high-end Italian place that’s said to be a favourite of the CBC’s Rick Mercer. Also on the waterfront, The Lower Deck is a famous spot for a cold beer and live music. In the growingly popular North End, Agricola Street Brasserie features everything from spicy samosas to brilliant scallops in a room that feels like an old warehouse.
SEASIDE VIEWS
Lawrencetown Beach is about a half-hour drive from downtown Halifax, just over the bridge near Cole Harbour (home to Canadian hockey superstar Sidney Crosby). It’s a lovely beach where they get some pretty mean surf conditions, especially if there’s a storm on the east coast. Bring a blanket and a picnic lunch and watch surfers dart back and forth on the waves. You can take lessons if you like, or simply watch. It’s a great, long beach for walking or beachcombing. Slightly south and west of town, Peggy’s Cove is justifiably famous for its lighthouse and fishing village. But it can get a little crowded.
WHERE TO STAY
The Westin Nova Scotian is one of the finest addresses in town, with great water views from many rooms. The Halliburton is a beautiful boutique hotel that used to house the law school for Dalhousie University. Look for unique rooms and a lovely breakfast. If you’re staying near the airport or in suburban Bedford, the Holiday Inn Express & Suites are great for families or folks who want a little space.
