Halifax
Photo Credit: Canadian Tourism Commission
Halifax is a truly special place that is the perfect balance of rural and urban areas, wrapped by the ocean into one beautiful region. Each area of the Halifax Regional Municipality has a unique feel and many family activities to enjoy all year round.
You can start collecting your moments and memories now when you discover all the fun, interesting things to do with your kids in the Halifax region. There are beaches, zoos, festivals, restaurants, cafes, and much more for families to try out and see around in the Halifax Regional Municipality. So, pick a few of the interesting activities listed below to try out with the kids to keep the boredom away.
1. Point Pleasant Park – Halifax
Point Pleasant Park is located in the south end of Halifax. It is a 75-hectare wooded park that has 39kms of walking paths. There is also a beach for swimming and an off-leash dog walking area. Point Pleasant Park
2. Burke-Gaffney Observatory – Halifax
Explore the galaxy without leaving Halifax. The observatory is home to a reflecting telescope. They have an open house every first and third Saturday of each month and show images of the Halifax skies and stars. Burke-Gaffney Observatory
3. Maritime Museum of the Atlantic – Waterfront
Halifax is the heart of the Nova Scotia’s rich maritime heritage. The museum has collected and displays various parts of crafting and boatbuilding from the last 100 years. Explore the Canada’s oldest and largest museum. Maritime Museum of the Atlantic
4. Kartbahn Racing – Bayers Lake
5. Discovery Centre- Waterfront
The Discovery Centre is a state-of-the-art facility with four floors of hands-on learning experiences. There are new displays and experiences added regularly. Every Wednesday evening admission is free and it is open late, so it the best time to explore the centre. Discovery Centre- Waterfront
6. Hop Skip Jump Indoor Play Space – Bayers Lake
Over 3,500 square foot play space is offered at the Hop Skip Jump Indoor Play Space. There play structure is three levels high to climb and run around. Toddlers have their own play area with an animal merry-go-round, balloon carnival, and spinning palm tree. So, while the kids play, you can relax at the coffee area. Hop Skip Jump Indoor Play Space
7. Putting Edge- Bayers Lake
The Putting Edge offers glow-in-the-dark mini golf in its uniquely painted course. The mini-golf course is 18-holes and great tunes to bogey to. Putting Edge- Bayers Lake
8. Get Air Nova Scotia –Burnside
Get Air is one of Halifax’s most popular indoor playground and birthday party locations. There is a trampoline court, ball pit, kiddie court, fidget ladder, and slack line. There are also cool activity nights for the whole family to enjoy. Get Air Nova Scotia –Burnside
9. Pier 21 – Waterfront
Pier 21 was the gateway for nearly 1 million immigrants from 1928 to 1971 and is now a national museum. There are hands-on activities to do and first-person stories that teach people about moving to Canada. Pier 21
10. Alderney Landing Farmers’ Market- Dartmouth
11. Atlantic Splash Adventure – Hammonds Plains
Atlantic Splash Adventure is a part of the Atlantic Playland, which is the largest family-owned fun park in Nova Scotia. There are waterslides, water balloon fights, bumper boats, and much more to try out. The Carousel Café is the place to be when you get hungry. Atlantic Splash Adventure – Hammonds Plains
12. Africville Museum – Halifax
Africville was settled in the 1860’s, nd was a thriving African Nova Scotian community right on the edge of Halifax Harbour. In the 1960’s, the community was destroyed to free up land to allow for the industrial expansion. The Museum is a replica of the church, and inside there is the story of the injustice and celebrating the strong community that continues up to this day. Africville Museum – Halifax
13. Bedford Institute of Oceanography – Dartmouth
Canada’s leading marine research centre and one of the largest oceanographic establishments in the World. Exhibits include fisheries science, hydrography, species at risk, oceanography, and much more.Bedford Institute of Oceanography
14. Halifax Citadel National Historic Site – Halifax
The Halifax Citadel is on the largest hill in Halifax and was used to overlook and defend the harbour. There are tours you can take or you can explore the historic site on your own. The Living History makes the Citadel anything but a simple museum. Halifax Citadel National Historic Site
15. Alderney Landing Community Cultural Centre – Dartmouth
Alderney Landing is not only the Ferry Terminal, there is also a community centre located there. There is also a theatre with regular live events and outdoor events. Take some time to explore the Community Cultural Centre while waiting for the ferry. Alderney Landing Community Cultural Centre
16. Clay Café – Halifax
Get messy and paint your own pottery at the Clay Café. There are over 300 items to pick from and new items are added regularly. Once fired, the items are dishwasher and microwave safe. So, take the kids to have fun and paint your own mugs, plates, and bowls. Clay Café
17. Fisherman’s Cove – Eastern Passage
Fisherman’s Cove is an over 200-year-old fishing village that allows you to peek back in time, and learn about Nova Scotia’s fishing history. There are many shops to explore, and find unique people, art, crafts and souvenirs. Fisherman’s Cove
18. Ground Zero Climbing Gym – Dartmouth
19. Halifax Public Gardens – Halifax
Located in the heart of Halifax is a 17-arce Victorian Garden enclosed by a wrought-iron fence. The bandstand features afternoon band concerts from mid-June to mid-September that the whole family will enjoy. Halifax Public Gardens
20. Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame – Halifax
The Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame is located in the Scotiabank Centre. There are displays showing the last 150 years of hockey history. Admission is free, so why not take the kids to check out the Hall of Fame. Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame
21. The Play Box – Dartmouth
The Play Box is located on Portland Street and is great for kids from 4 to 12 years of age. There is a speed slide, moon-walk, maze, ball jam, spiral slide and much more for kids to have fun on. For parents, there is Nova Coffee and Free Coffee that they can enjoy. The Play Box
22. Sea Dome (Ka’nata Productions) – Halifax
The Sea Dome is a new type of movie theatre. The movies are displayed in 360° and there are two movies to pick from. Each movie is around 20 minutes long. Sea Dome (Ka’nata Productions)
23. Hali the Road Train – Halifax
Hali the Road Train is a community road train that will take you around the waterfront in about half an hour. This is a fun way of getting around the waterfront. Hali the Road Train
24. Escape Rooms – Halifax
Test your family team work and get out of that themed locked room. Halifax has 5 Escape Room locations.
25. Dee Dee’s Ice Cream – Halifax
Enjoy a waffle cone filled with fresh ice cream or gelato at Dee Dee’s Ice Cream. Any of the flavors at Dee Dee’s can be turned into a delicious milkshake. There are also burritos, soup, and hot and cold drinks available. Dee Dee’s Ice Cream
26. Theodore Tugboat – Halifax
Theodore Tugboat is a mainstay of the Halifax Harbour. The Theodore Tugboat’s Big Harbour Tour allows you aboard the famous tugboat and to explore the harbour. Don’t forget your singing voice because Theodore will be singing some of his famous songs. Theodore Tugboat
27. Harbour Hopper – Halifax
28. Two if By Sea – Dartmouth
Two if By Sea is a lovely café in Dartmouth Centre, and is a popular spot for fresh-baked treats. All the treat at this café are made fresh daily, so plan to visit early to get the best variety. . Two if By Sea
29. Tall Ship Festival – Halifax
The Tall Ships are something that people from near and far come to Halifax to see. Each time the Tall Ship Festival is in Halifax, there are many activities for families around Halifax to celebrate these amazing ships. Tall Ship Festival
30. Ghost Tour of Citadel Hill – Halifax
When the Citadel Hill’s gates open at night, it is time for a scare. During these special tours, the mysteries and ghost stories are told in chilling detail. Citadel Hill is definitely worth a second look at night. Ghost Tour of Citadel Hill
31. Get Lunch from Food Trucks – Halifax
Food trucks are often over looked, but some of the best lunches and snacks are served out of these mobile restaurants. There are too many to list, but there are handy apps that allow you to see what trucks are nearby and open. Get Lunch from Food Trucks
32. Freak Lunchbox – Halifax
Freak Lunchbox is a magical place located near the Halifax Waterfront. It stocks dozens of types of candy and chocolate treats from across the world. It stands out with its bright colors and unique candy selection. So, be prepared to become a kid in a candy shop. Freak Lunchbox
33. Seaport Farmers’ Market – Halifax
The Seaport Farmers’ Market is the largest and oldest farmers market. There are over 250 vendors who are selling local items and fresh food. Exploring the market can take some time, so be prepared and keep an open mind. Seaport Farmers’ Market
34. Forum Farmer’s Market – Halifax
35. Halifax Central Library – Halifax
The Halifax Central Library got a makeover in 2014, and now stands out with its unique design and floor plan. The kid’s selection is on the first floor and there is a small play and reading area that the kids will enjoy. Halifax Central Library
36. Common Roof Urban Farm – Halifax
Learn how vegetables and flowers are grown at the Common Roof Urban Farm. There are 195 plots that are rented to the community, and there are is a market where people can buy items that were grown on the farm. Common Roof Urban Farm
37. Humani-T Café – Halifax
Humani-T Café is known for its unique gelato and drink menu. There is always a new flavour to try or you can just enjoy a classic. It is a great place to visit on a hot summer day or a cold winter evening.
38. Woozles – Halifax
Woozles is the oldest children’s bookstore in Canada, and it will make you wish you were young again. This is the ideal place to pick up old favorites or find a new favorite. There are books from across the globe waiting for you to discover them. Woozles
39. Lions Club Pool – Bedford
This pool is a great place to cool off during the summer. The Bedford Lions Club Pool is actually two pools, there is a shallow kiddie pool that is only a few inches deep, and a 9 foot deep, 25-meter long pool. If swimming is not your thing, there is a playground that you can enjoy. Lions Club Pool
40. Chickenburger restaurant – Bedford
41. Action Laser Tag-Halifax
Action Laser Tag is the place to play laser tag in Halifax. There are 6,000 square feet where kids can run, hide and play in. You can also have personalized dog-tags made right on the spot. They also have overnight locked in nights. . Action Laser Tag
42. St. Margaret’s Bay Trail – St. Margaret’s Bay
The St. Margaret’s Bay Trail is a recreational trail that has amazing elevated views of St. Margaret’s Bay. There are interpretive panels about the ecology and the area’s history are along the trail, so the whole family will learn as they hike. St. Margaret’s Bay Trail
43. Bike n’ Bean – Tantallon
Before you head out on the St. Margaret’s Bay Trail, pop into the Bike n’ Bean for a drink or to rent a bike. The building is the historic French Village Train Station, which has been turned into a café and bike shop. They also offer repair services if your bikes need work. Bike n’ Bean
44. Hatfield Farm – Hammonds Plains
Even though the Hatfield Farm is located within HRM, it feels like the city is far away. The Hatfield Farm offers wagon and sleigh rides, pony rides, petting zoo, and much more. So, take the kids and become a cowboy for the day at Hatfield Farm. Hatfield Farm
45. Kearney Lake Beach – Halifax
Kearney Beach is a lovely sandy beach where you can sit back and relax, or splash around in the water. Along with the lake, there is a playground that the kids will enjoy. There are challenging trails around the lake that you can hike if you are up for the challenge. Kearney Lake Beach
46. Canada Games Centre – Halifax
The Canada Games Centre offers something for everyone. There are three pools, two water slides, four ‘mini’ basketball courts, a dance studio, a fitness centre, and much more. Get your heart racing at this all in one fitness centre. Canada Games Centre
47. Scotia Speedworld – Dartmouth
Watch some of the best drivers in Canada and the world race at the Scotia Speedworld track. There is a special Kids Club program that helps kids and parents stay up-to-date with racers and races. Scotia Speedworld
48. Chocolate Lake Beach – Halifax
This is the place to be during the summer months. This manmade lake is only a short walk from downtown Halifax, and there are lifeguards on site. There is a tennis court right next to the beach if you are up for a match.Chocolate Lake Beach
49. Trellis Café – Hubbards
A cyclist friendly café that offers tasty, freshly made treats and fair trade coffee. There is a sunny patio to enjoy the fresh air and sunny allow with your snacks or meal. Their kid’s menu offers up some classics along with some healthier options. . Trellis Café
50. Hubbards Barn & Community Park – Hubbards
This hidden gem of the South Shore is worth the time to find. On Saturday mornings, there is the Hubbards Farmers’ Market. The rest of the week, the park is open for exploring. Hubbards Barn & Community Park
51. Busker Festival –Halifax
52. Local Jo’s – Halifax
One of the most kid-friendly cafes in Halifax from 2010 to 2012, Local Jo’s is the place to stop in the west end of Halifax. There is a kid’s play area and there are yummy cookies for them to try. Local Jo’s
53. 4Cats Studio – Halifax
4Cats Studio is the place to learn about art and make your own creations. They offer classes for both children and adults. 4Cats Studio
54. Ride the Ferry – Halifax and Dartmouth
The ferry is a part of the Metro Transit services that most of the people ride to get around. But why not turn it into an adventure for the kids or just ride it for fun. A ride on the ferry helps you get a closer look at the Halifax Harbour or see the city from ocean level.Ride the Ferry
55. Shubie Park – Dartmouth
Shubie Park is the only campground located in the Halifax city limits, and it has 75 sites. Along with camping, you can also explore the trails around Lake Charles and Lake MicMac. There are squirrels, ducks and other animals who are used to humans and will gladly wait for a treat. Shubie Park
56. Peggy’s Cove
Peggy’s Cove is beautiful, and is known for its iconic lighthouse. If you are planning to walk near the ocean, stay back from the wet rocks, the ocean is surging near Peggy’s Cove. The town is still an active fishing community, and there are many fishermen to visit and quaint shops to explore. Peggy’s Cove
57. Sou’Wester Restaurant – Peggy’s Cove
58. DeWolf Park – Bedford
DeWolf Park has a lovely view of the ocean and the Bedford basin from the boardwalk. There is also a playground for the kids to enjoy. DeWolf Park
59. Halifax Commons Playground and Skate Park – Halifax
Spend the day with the kids enjoying all the Halifax Commons has to offer. The Commons is a group of open public areas containing a skate park, a playground, an outdoor swimming pool, a large shallow splash pad, tennis courts and softball diamonds. It also has plenty of wide open spaces for the kids to run!Halifax Commons Playground and Skate Park
60. Frog Pond Trail – Halifax
Walk around the Frog Pond, or go skating on the pond in the winter. This trail also connects to other trails and you can easily find your way to the Dingle Tower. Frog Pond Trail
61. Amazing Land Indoor Playground –Dartmouth
On cold or wet days, your kids’ playing does not need to stop. The Amazing Land Indoor Playground is an indoor playground for kids under 13 years old. There are play structures, a tree house, a rainbow bridge, a speedy slide, and a game floor. Don’t forget to wear your socks, this rule also applies to parents. Amazing Land Indoor Playground
62. Nova Scotian Crystal – Halifax
Nova Scotia Crystal is the only crystal maker in Canada, and you can experience how the amazing pieces of crystal are made. The master craftsmen quickly turn molten crystal into the beautiful pieces sold on site. Nova Scotian Crystal
63. Happy Kids – Bedford
64. IMAX Theatre – Halifax
Halifax is the home to the only IMAX Theatre in Nova Scotia. This theatre makes it feel like you are in the movie, and is the best way to experience 3D movies. There are many movies that take advantage of this special theatre. IMAX Theatre
65. Hop On Hop Off Tour – Halifax
The bright pink double decker bus driving around Halifax is a Hop On Hop Off Tour. The tour showcases what Halifax has to offer and is about one and a half hours long. An all-day pass allows you to explore Halifax at your own pace. Hop On Hop Off Tour
66. Putting Edge- Bayers Lake
Spend an evening playing golf at the Putting Edge with your date. It offers glow-in-the-dark mini golf in its uniquely painted course. Their 18-holes are challenging and you can bogey around the courses to the great music that is played during games. Putting Edge- Bayers Lake
67. Cole Harbour Heritage Farm – Cole Harbour
This heritage farm is a living museum that is dedicated to preserving and interpreting Cole Harbour’s agricultural past and developing an understanding of animals, farming, and plants today. There is traditional livestock that you can meet and learn about while visiting the farm. Cole Harbour Heritage Farm
68. En Vie a Vegan – Halifax
Vegan and vegetarian food does not have to be boring. En Vie a Vegan is serving up favorite and classic meals made with only vegan ingredients, and they taste so good that you and the kids may not know the difference. En Vie a Vegan
69. Crystal Crescent Beach Provincial Park – Sambro Creek
Wander the 3 white sand beaches at the Crystal Crescent Beach Provincial Park. The boardwalk will take you to the first 2 beaches. There are many bird species that call the park home that you can spot. Crystal Crescent Beach Provincial Park
70. Neptune Theatre – Halifax
Take the kids to see a play at Neptune Theatre? Neptune Theatre’s intimate space is the perfect place to share some laughs and some tears while enjoying some of Halifax’s most talented actors perform great plays. Neptune Theatre
71. Annie’s Place Café – Halifax
Annie’s Place Café is a nice break from the busy Spring Garden shopping district. It offers an all-day breakfast and daily specials. It is a cash only café, so you may want to head to the bank before dropping in for a bite to eat with the kids. Annie’s Place Café
72. Art Gallery of Nova Scotia – Halifax
73. McNabs and Lawlor Island Provincial Park – Halifax
One of Halifax’s best-kept secrets, McNabs Island is the largest island and can be spotted at the entrance of the Halifax Harbour. There are over 22km of beautiful hiking trails around the provincial park. Just make sure to pack enough water for everyone because there is no drinking water available in the park. McNabs and Lawlor Island Provincial Park
74. Have a messy family day at Hypersportz Paintball – Lower Sackville
Have a fun time getting messy with your kids at HyperSportz Paintball. They have 3 fields ranging from Woodsball, Speedball or SplatMaster where you chase your kids around and try to cover them in multicolored paint. So, if you’re looking for an exciting family excursion then head to Hypersportz Paintball with the kids. Hypersportz Paintball
75. Halifax Waterfront – Halifax
The Halifax Waterfront is a unique part of Halifax history and what the city is today. The boardwalk is the best way of exploring the waterfront and finding amazing shops, cafes, and galleries. The Waterfront is ever-changing, so it always worth a visit with the kids. Halifax Waterfront
76. Smokes Poutinerie – Halifax
Poutine is a Canadian staple dish, but Smoke’s Poutinerie takes the poutine to the next level. Along with the traditional fries, cheese curds and gravy, Smokes adds tasty ingredients like veggies, chicken, bacon, and much more to their poutine. Smokes Poutinerie
77. Mic Mac Mall – Dartmouth
Mic Mac Mall is the place to take the family when you are looking for a first-rate shopping experience. There are also special promotions and events throughout the year that your family can check out. Information on these special events is available on their website or by calling the Guest Services Desk. Mic Mac Mall
78. George’s Island Lighthouse – Halifax
79. Long Lake Provincial Park – Halifax
Long Lake is a vast, conveniently located wooded space that is a great place to take the kids hiking. Once you stray from the main paths, you will find that the park is full of interesting geology, lakeside views, streams, rivers, vegetation, beaver dams and wildlife you don’t normally see in the city. You can spend as much or as little time as you like with the family hiking in this urban gem. Long Lake Provincial Park
80. Emera Oval –Halifax
Take the kids out skating or roller skating, depending on the time of year, at the Emera Oval. The Oval is open year round! So, enjoy a free public skate with the family. The Oval also has skates and helmets available for people to use at no charge. Emera Oval
81. Nova Scotia Museum of Natural History – Halifax
Visit the Museum of Natural History with the kids and tour the many Galleries such as Archeology, Aquatic life, Geology, mammals and more. The Museum has lots of interesting things to see, especially the forest exhibit with Gus the Tortoise, who is 94 years old. There is a small gift shop and an area in the basement level to relax and eat any snacks you might take with you. Nova Scotia Museum of Natural History
82. Memory Lane Heritage Village – Lake Charlotte
Memory Lane Heritage Village is a living history museum that depicts coastal rural life in Nova Scotia in the 1940s, including life during and after the Second World War. It’s a recreation of a Nova Scotia fishing village, complete with a church, schoolhouse, fisherman’s storehouse, garage, old cars and gas pumps. If you are lucky and meet the owner of the “gas station”, he may offer to take you on a little drive in his 1928 Model A. Memory Lane Heritage Village
83. Nova Scotia Centre for Craft and Design – Halifax
84. Sea Turtle Centre – Halifax
Spend an afternoon with the kids learning about Nova Scotia’s marine wildlife and the local efforts of Halifax citizens to conserve sea turtles – particularly the leatherback turtle. You can also purchase merchandise with turtles on them and all the proceeds go towards research. Sea Turtle Centre
85. Sweet Jane’s Gift and Confectionary – Halifax
Located on Queen Street in downtown Halifax, Sweet Jane’s Gift and Confectionary is known for its sweet treats and retro toys and gifts. They also make tasty New York style cupcakes, and candy gift baskets. This unique candy shop will get the kids’ imagination going. . Sweet Jane’s Gift and Confectionary
86. The Ikebana Shop – Halifax
Ikebana is the Japanese art of flower arranging, but the Ikebana Shop offers much more than just flower arranging. They also offer unique Japanese items including bento box, cute stationery, and books from Japan. This is the place to visit if your kids look anime, Japan, or cute/kawaii items. . The Ikebana Shop
87. The Monkey Show – Halifax
Make your own sock monkey at The Monkey Show. Each sock monkey is unique because each child gets to pick the pattern and put the sock monkey together themselves. There are also pre-made kits if there are too many choices to make. The Monkey Show
88. Shearwater Aviation Museum – Shearwater
Explore the history of the Canadian Maritime military aviation history from 1918 to today. There is a Fairey Swordfish bi-plane along with 12 other historic planes. Kids can learn how to fly a plane In the flight simulator, or sit back and enjoy the videos in the theatre. Shearwater Aviation Museum
89. Daily Sweet’s Arcade – Halifax
90. Shakespeare by the Sea – Halifax
Taking in a play at Shakespeare by the Sea is a great learning night event. So, take advantage of their new ‘Sweet Seats’ option to reserve seats for you and your kids and get a bottle of water free. You should book just a few days in advance, so you will get some of the best seats in the (outdoor) house. Shakespeare by the Sea
91. The Quaker House – Dartmouth
The Quaker House is one of the oldest buildings in Dartmouth, and is associated with the Nantucket Quaker Whalers who lived in the city from 1785 to 1792. The house has been restored and furnished to reflect the history of the building. This is a living history museum, so there is always something to do when you visit it. The Quaker House
92. Tobogganing at The Pit – Halifax
The Pit is one of the best tobogganing hills in Halifax. The slopes are at the Marv Sullivan Park in Halifax’s North End. There is a handy path to the back to the top. It is recommended that all tobogganers, no matter their age to wear a helmet because the slopes are steep. Tobogganing at The Pit
93. The Black Cultural Centre –Dartmouth
The Black Cultural Centre celebrates the history and culture of African Nova Scotian that dates back to the 1600’s. The centre takes a closer look at the community, military service, and migration of this amazing group of people. The Black Cultural Centre
94. Leathersmith Designs – Dartmouth
95. Portland Street Creperie – Dartmouth
There is a crepe for everyone at the Portland Street Creperie. There are savory crepes for lunch, or if you have a sweet tooth there is the Oreo Cheesecake or Fruit Salsa crepe for you to choose from. Portland Street Creperie
96. Stone Pizza – Dartmouth
Stone Pizza is unique pizza experience in Downtown Dartmouth where you can take the family for delicious artisan pizza just the way you like it. Their pizzas are made to order, right in front of you with fresh, high-quality ingredients and cooked on a traditional pizza stone for a little extra flavour. Stone Pizza
97. Kept – Dartmouth
Kept is a quirky, fun shop for the whole family to enjoy exploring! If you’re looking to find a unique gift for yourself or others, this place definitely doesn’t disappoint. Kept
98. BMO Centre – Bedford
The BMO Centre is the premier destination for families who want to take part in ice-related activities! It contains 4 NHL sized ice rinks and 4 beach volleyball courts. The BMO Centre is a popular spot for Public Skating, so the facility schedule includes a skate time for parents and tots, parents and youth and family skates, along with other programs for all ages. BMO Centre
99. Monster Comic Lounge – Halifax
100. Go Shopping at Halifax Shopping Centre – Halifax
Halifax Shopping Centre is the place to find the newest fashion and toys. They added a new food court and there are new stores being added regularly. There are buses that regularly go and connect to the other areas of HRM. Halifax Shopping Centre
The kids section of the Central Library is on the 2nd floor and also offers frequent programs for kids. Their website is now: https://www.halifaxpubliclibraries.ca/locations/SGA/