Cape Breton Island 
Nova Scotia is a treasure trove of natural beauty and rich history, and Parks Canada ensures the protection and preservation of some of these remarkable sites.
Georges Island National Historic Site; Credit: Mike Bayer/Parks Canada
In the Halifax Defence Complex, you’ll find Fort McNab, Georges Island, Halifax Citadel, Prince of Wales Tower, and York Redoubt, each with its own unique story to tell.
Other mainland Nova Scotia sites include Fort Anne, Fort Edward, Grand-Pré, Melanson Settlement, and Port-Royal, all offering a glimpse into the province’s past. Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site, along with its seaside counterpart, provide opportunities to immerse yourself in the region’s stunning natural landscapes.
Cape Breton Island is home to the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site, Cape Breton Highlands National Park with its breathtaking scenery, the historic Fortress of Louisbourg, and the scenic St. Peters Canal. And let’s not forget the remote and captivating Sable Island National Park Reserve, waiting to be explored offshore.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a nature lover, Nova Scotia’s Parks Canada sites have something extraordinary to offer. Here is what is new (and some highlights) this year as Parks Canada sites open for 2023 summer season:
Halifax Citadel National Historic Site
New Exhibit/ Credit: Aaron McKenzie Fraser/Parks Canada
Halifax played a crucial role in the wars, serving as an assembly point for convoys and troops. The Citadel itself was a hub for military operations, from acting as a transit barracks to housing the city’s anti-aircraft defenses. Discover the life of a Victorian-era soldier and unravel the fascinating history of Halifax through guided tours and immersive experiences.
A must-visit is the new signature exhibit, Fortress Halifax: A City Shaped by Conflict. Unfolding across 6,000 square feet, this exhibit takes you on a journey through time, recounting the stories of the Mi’kmaq people and the diverse settlers who shaped the city. Divided into seven rooms, each representing a different era, this exhibit offers a comprehensive exploration of Halifax’s social and military past.
The Halifax Citadel Society has lined up some exciting programs for the season. Experience military activities, embark on spirit tasting programs with Compass Distillers, or dare to join a ghost tour by candlelight. Imagine descending through dimly lit passageways, feeling the thrill of the unknown as you explore the haunted history of the Citadel.
For a guided tour, join a kilted highlander who will regale you with fascinating tales. Explore the period rooms, exhibitions, and films that offer different perspectives on Halifax’s history.
Georges Island National Historic Site
Acorn Art & Photography/Parks Canada
Prepare to embark on an island adventure as you discover the captivating Georges Island National Historic Site in the heart of Kjipuktuk, the “Great Harbour.” This small island played a significant role in the defence of Canada and the development of Nova Scotia.
Hop aboard the ferry with Ambassatours Gray Line or arrive by private vessel to reach this hidden gem. Follow the trail and explore the underground tunnels that unveil the island’s rich history as part of the Halifax Defence Complex, an Acadian internment camp, and even a prison. Don’t miss the chance to join a guided tour of the labyrinthine tunnels and get lost in the fascinating past of Fort Charlotte. take guided kayak tour with Harbour Watercraft Tours.
Georges Island offers more than just tunnels.
Take in the stunning views of the city and harbour while enjoying a picnic lunch from the Cable Wharf Kitchen and Patio. Order in advance and pick up your scrumptious meal before boarding the ferry to the island. Whether you indulge in a traditional lobster roll, savoury rotisserie chicken, a delectable Ploughman’s Lunch, or a vegetarian delight of fried Halloumi cheese, you’re sure to find a mouthwatering option to satisfy your appetite.
Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site
Credit: Acorn Art & Photography
Get ready to paddle, hike, bike, camp, and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and the vibrant Mi’kmaw culture at Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site, a nature lover’s paradise located in Southwest Nova Scotia.
Embark on a journey through time as you explore the park’s fascinating history, from the ancient Mi’kmaw petroglyphs and traditional encampment areas to the canoe routes that date back thousands of years. Be sure to take in the breathtaking night sky in Nova Scotia’s only Dark-Sky Preserve.
Hiking is a must-do activity at Kejimkujik, with a variety of trails to suit every level of adventurer.
The park has a new trail — the Ukme’k Trail, a twisting and turning path that follows the picturesque Mersey River. Whether you choose to hike or bike, this trail offers optional technical features for mountain bikers and stunning views along the way.
For those seeking even more adventure, the Keji Outfitters are here to help. Rent equipment or join guided tours to make the most of your visit. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the rich Mi’kmaw culture through petroglyph tours, evening paddles in the Big Canoe, and immersive encampments.
To truly connect with Mi’kmaw culture, join a guided tour to discover the mesmerizing petroglyphs that adorn the shores of Kejimkujik Lake. These stone-carved depictions hold vital clues to regional history and offer a glimpse into the rich heritage of the Mi’kmaq people. You can also witness the ancient craft of birch bark canoe-building firsthand, as master craftsman Todd Labrador brings this traditional art form to life.
Kejimkujik Seaside National Park, located 1 hour from the main inland location (99 km southeast of Kejimkujik National Park), is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Enjoy the wild and isolated coastline with its white sand beaches and turquoise waters. The revitalized Port Joli Head Trail offers an exceptional hiking experience with extensive trail work completed.
Please note that there will be an exciting infrastructure update at Jake’s Landing, with the addition of a climate-resilient, four-season pedestrian bridge. While the bridge won’t be available for the 2023 season, you can still enjoy biking and hiking in two separate areas: from the Visitor Centre to Jeremy’s Bay Campground, and from Jake’s Landing to Merrymakedge and beyond.
When it comes to camping, Kejimkujik has you covered. Choose from a range of accommodations, including roofed options like oTENTiks, Ôasis, rustic cabins, and yurts. Front-country campsites are available for tents, trailers, and RVs, while backcountry sites offer a more secluded experience accessible by hiking or paddling.
Port-Royal National Historic Site and Fort Anne National Historic Site
Fort Anne National Historic Site; Credit: Dan Froese/Parks Canada
History comes to life in the beautiful landscapes of Nova Scotia at Port-Royal National Historic Site and Fort Anne National Historic Site. Get ready to step back in time, meet historical characters, and indulge in the perfect picnic experience! The season begins on May 19, so mark your calendars!
At Port-Royal, you’ll explore the reconstructed Habitation, a 17th-century French compound that was one of the earliest European settlements in North America. Immerse yourself in the challenges faced by the French settlers and learn about their friendship with the Mi’kmaq. Take a self-guided tour and marvel at the hand-hewn timbers that were skillfully crafted during the 1939 reconstruction. Don’t forget to stroll along the trail surrounding the Habitation for a different perspective and delve deeper into the site’s history through informative panels.
Port-Royal National Historic Site; Credit: Leigh McAdam
Engage in fascinating conversations with costumed interpreters who bring the Habitation to life. Chat with artisans, labourers, and even the Governor himself during the immersive A Meeting with the Governor program. Get a taste of daily life in 1605 and try out reproduction 17th-century garden tools or explore the stars with a reproduction astrolabe used by explorers of old.
Prepare to be enthralled by Canada’s first administered National Historic Site, a land that witnessed intense conflicts among Scottish, French, and English settlers, often involving the Mi’kmaq at Fort Anne National Historic Site. Join a guided tour with a knowledgeable Parks Canada interpreter and explore the 1797 Officers’ Quarters Museum. Wander along the earthen walls of the Vauban fort and absorb the rich history showcased in visual displays. And don’t forget to pack a picnic! Enjoy the picturesque views of the Annapolis River as you savor a delicious meal on the expansive lawns.
In the Tapestry Room of Fort Anne, be captivated by a new mural by Mi’kmaw artist Loretta Gould, showcasing the enduring presence of the Mi’kmaq and their connection to the land throughout history. With the existing tapestry depicting the arrival of Europeans, this room holds 3,000 years of captivating stories.
Indulge in the Parks Canada Perfect Picnic experience, available from participating restaurants. Treat yourself to a ready-made lunch and find the perfect spot at Fort Anne or Port-Royal to enjoy your meal in the great outdoors. After all, everything tastes better when you eat it outside!
Fort Edward National Historic Site
Fort Edward National Historic Site, nestled above Nova Scotia’s Minas Basin in Windsor, takes you back to a time of British-Acadian-Mi’kmaq discord, but fear not, the fort is now a serene spot for a leisurely stroll with a historical twist. Built in 1750, this ancient military blockhouse stands tall, showcasing its defensive design and offering a glimpse into the lives of soldiers who once called it home. Kids will have a blast playing pretend with the cannons, defending the fort like little warriors.
But that’s not all! The West Hants Historical Society brings the site to life with on-site interpretation, letting you explore Canada’s oldest surviving Blockhouse and enjoy a scenic walking trail, picnic area, and even geocaching! This year, special events will shine a spotlight on both British and Acadian histories, offering a deeper understanding of the site’s significance.
For a truly idyllic experience, spread out a blanket at the base of North America’s oldest blockhouse, indulge in a delicious picnic lunch, and soak in the breathtaking views of the river valley below. Don’t miss out on the chance to immerse yourself in this rich piece of Canada’s colonial history. Admission is free, and the season starts on June 30.
Cape Breton Highlands National Park
Cape Breton Highlands National Park is a magical place where majestic mountains meet the sparkling sea. Spread across 950 square kilometers; it offers breathtaking views and adventurous activities.
Excitingly, the park has introduced a brand-new campground called Mkwesaqtuk/Cap-Rouge. The park has 47 sites available for reservation, including five oTENTik sites and 42 unserviced sites with fireplaces. The operating season runs from May 19 to October 22, 2023.
This cliff-side retreat offers traditional campsites and cozy oTENTik accommodations. It is the first facility in the park with a Mi’kmaw-French name, reflecting the area’s rich cultural heritage. With solar-powered lighting, propane heat, and accessibility features, this campground ensures a comfortable and eco-friendly experience. Enjoy coastal hikes, explore the cobblestone beach, and witness stunning sunsets over the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Additionally, the campground’s efforts to mitigate coastal erosion through the planting of rose bushes add to its charm.
