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Volume 5 | 2026 Kids’ Guide

Stay Safe and Healthy in Halifax Safety first! Your grown-ups will probably want to have a look at this page. Fill in the information before heading out to explore.

Hospitals

Halifax is home to a wonderful children’s hospital called the IWK Health Centre, located on University Avenue. They have an emergency department and a wide range of other departments to help your sick or injured child.

This guide belongs to: Guardian’s name:

Guardian’s phone number:

Location your group/family is staying:

Police Station

The Halifax Regional Police Headquarters is located on Gottingen Street, between Downtown Halifax and the North End. For in-person assistance, visit this location. In an emergency, call 911.

Pharmacies

If you require a prescription or medication, there are many pharmacies across the region, including Lawtons Drugs, Shoppers Drug Mart, Sobeys Pharmacy, and more.

Created by Locals EDITORS IN CHIEF

Viviana Varela and Annie Cameron

DESIGNER

Lyndsay Belair ILLUSTRATORS

Lyndsay Belair, Aaron Googoo, Molly Margaret, Janna Wilton Cover Image - Molly Margaret

Walk-Ins

If you need a walk-in doctor immediately, visit this website: ns.skipthewaitingroom.com/city/halifax

Important Numbers

Emergency Phone: 911 Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868 Halifax Police (non-emergency): 902-490-5020 Health Information (non-emergency): 811 Health Information Hearing Impaired (non-emergency): 711 Halifax Transit Schedules and Services: 311

We Love Our Region and Our Planet Did you know the ink used to make this guide is vegetable-based and the paper is fully recyclable? As you explore the Halifax region, try to leave no trace or even make places better than you found them. When you’re done with this guide, keep it, recycle it, or pass it along to someone else to enjoy.

SPECIAL THANKS TO:

Maggie Duffy, Mallory Gorman, Riaz Oozeer, Adriana Santiago, Thomas Scott, and Sunshine Paul-Martin The information in this guide was sourced from a wide range of local and provincial partners, including AllTrails, Build Nova Scotia, The Coast, Downtown Dartmouth Business Commission, Downtown Halifax Business Commission, Family Fun Halifax, Halifax Partnership, Halifax Regional Municipality, Halifax Trails, Mi’kmaq Online, the Mi’kmaq Resource Centre at Unama’ki College, the Musquodoboit Trailway Association, the North End Business Association, Nova Scotia Parks, The Nova Scotia Indigenous Tourism Enterprise Network (NSITE’N), Tourism Nova Scotia, Shubenacadie Canal Commission and more.

CONNECT WITH US #DiscoverHalifax @discoverhalifax @discoverhalifax @discoverhalifaxns r/DiscoverHalifax DISCOVERHALIFAXNS.COM

Life can be unpredictable. We encourage you to call ahead or check online before visiting any businesses listed in this guide

to ensure they are open and accepting visitors.

Halifax Mural Scavenger Hunt How many of these murals can you spot?

1. Pride Peonies

ARTIST: Anisa Francoeur

1600 Grafton St, Halifax 2. Rainbow Tiger

ARTIST: Jieun (June) Kim

6260 Quinpool Rd, Halifax 3. Ghost of the Grey Lady

ARTIST: Blazeworks

2071 Pickard Ln, Halifax 4. Respect the Sun

ARTIST: Lorne Julien

Agricola St / Willow St, Halifax 5. I’m So Glad You’re Here

ARTIST: Kristen De Palma

2087 Gottingen St, Halifax 6. Puffins

Photo by: Liz Bertorelli

ARTIST: Molly Margaret

2087 Gottingen St, Halifax 7. Marisa

ARTIST: Dan Metcalfe

30 Portland St, Dartmouth

Table of

Contents Welcome

Welcome to Kjipuktuk...............................4 The Ko’jua Dance.......................................6

MAPS

Halifax Region Map....................................8 Halifax Waterfront Map............................12 Downtown Dartmouth Map.......................15 Downtown Halifax Map..............................52

WHERE TO STAY

Family-Friendly Hotels..............................16

WHERE TO EAT

Kid-Friendly Restaurants.........................22 Ice Cream Shops........................................24

THINGS TO DO

Things to Do in Central Halifax................11 Things to Do for Every Season.................18 The Ferry ..................................................20 Outdoor Activities......................................27 Animal Adventures in Halifax...................30 5 Hikes Under 5 KM...................................32 Playgrounds and Splash Pads..................34 Pools............................................................38 Beaches.......................................................40 Indoor Activities.........................................42 Indoor Playgrounds....................................44 Kid-Approved Shopping............................45 Sensory-Accessible Halifax......................48 Accessible Adventures..............................50

Land Acknowledgment Halifax is in Mi’kma’ki, the ancestral and unceded territory of the Mi’kmaq people. The people of the Mi’kmaw Nation have lived on this territory for millennia, and we acknowledge them as the past, present, and future caretakers of this land. What is a land acknowledgment? Historically, a land acknowledgment is a traditional practice shared among Indigenous groups to recognize the Indigenous land and territory they are visiting. Today, a land acknowledgment remains a way to express gratitude to the Indigenous people for being stewards of the land where we live and work, and to remind us that we are all treaty people.

KJIPUKTUK AQ MI’KMA’KI

DISTRICTS OF MI’KMA’KI Siknikt

drainage area

Epekwitk aq Piktuk cradled above land; explosion place

Unama’kik

Mi'kmaw territory

Halifax | Kjipuktuk

Welcome to

P’jilita’q wla

Halifax Kjipuktuk P’jilita’q wla Kjipuktuk = ep-chi-lee-dawq / wu-la / ek-g-book-dook

Halifax is the capital city of Nova Scotia. It is located on the East Coast of Canada on the Atlantic Ocean. The region is known formally as the Halifax Regional Municipality (or HRM), but to keep things simple, we just call it Halifax. Kjipuktuk is the Mi’kmaq way of saying “Great Harbour”. The Mi’kmaq (meeg-mah) are the Indigenous people of Mi’kma’ki (meeg-maw-gi), an area that encompasses Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, Newfoundland, parts of the Gaspé Peninsula, Québec, and Maine. Archaeological findings have shown evidence of Mi’kmaw presence in and around the area for more than 10,000 years.

Eskikewa’kik

Sipekne'katik

meaning uncertain

area of wild potato/turnip

Kespukwitk

end of flow

DID YOU KNOW: Traditionally, the Mi’kmaw people do not see land as something to own; it is seen as a responsibility bestowed by the Creator.

Halifax | Kjipuktuk

Whether we realize it or not, everyone in the land we know as Nova Scotia is travelling over and through ancestral Mi’kmaw places, and we do it every day.

Learn more at mikmaqonline.org

ANIMALS OF

Mi’kma’ki

These animals are indigenous to Mi’kma’ki and are featured throughout Mi’kmaq teachings and stories. Learn their names in English, Mi’kmaq, and French.

Bear

Discover Indigenous Culture in Kjipuktuk

Eagle

Muin Ours

Kitpu Aigle

Beaver

Porcupine

Kopit Castor

Matues Porc-épic

Coyote

Raven

U’lukwej Coyote

Wjika’qaku Corbeau

Deer

Turtle

Lentuk Cerf

Mikjikj Tortue

Pjila’si

Museum of Natural History, in partnership with the the Mi’kmaw Advisory Group (MAG) and the Nova Scotia Museum

Pjila’si, meaning “welcome” in Mi’kmaw, is an interactive space that celebrates Mi’kmaw culture by bringing its language, knowledge, skills, and adaptability to life. It’s a place to engage, learn, and reflect.

Fortress Halifax: A City Shaped by Conflict Halifax Citadel National Historic Site

Grand Council Flag of the Mi’kmaq Nation

Special thanks to NSITE’N for their support in the creation of this content.

Featuring paintings, maps, and stories from diverse perspectives—including British, French, Mi’kmaq, African Nova Scotians, and Acadians—Fortress Halifax invites you to explore the history of the city and the land it was built on.

Ta’n me’j Tel-keknuo’ltiek: How Unique We Still Are Maritime Museum of the Atlantic

Discover the powerful bond between the Mi’kmaw people and their ancestral lands and waters. Explore personal stories, unique artifacts, and meaningful artwork.

Ta’n a’sikatikl sipu’l | Confluence Art Gallery of Nova Scotia

This exhibit delves into the themes of connection and exchange. It features works by contemporary Indigenous artists, including paintings, sculptures, textiles, and historic artifacts from the gallery’s collection.

The Ko’jua Dance The Ko’jua is one of the oldest dances of the Mi’kmaw people. It is a very special dance that belongs only to them and is still enjoyed at Mi’kmaw gatherings today. It has very few steps, making it easy to learn. Dancers express themselves wearing colourful and uniquely designed regalia, sharing stories through their movements. Depending on the style and family connection of a specific Ko’jua dance, the movements focus on swinging arms and shuffling legs, helping the dancer weave the story being shared. Dancers tap or stomp the ground three times with one foot while moving forward, then do the same with the other foot. At the same time, both arms swing together, as if using ski poles. These movements repeat as everyone dances in a circle while one person leads the song. The song can tell many stories.

The Ko’jua dance is shared at many important moments. These include Mi’kmaw community gatherings called a Mawi’omi (also called a powwow), as well as births, deaths, coming-of-age celebrations, community hunts, elder gatherings, and Wi’kupaltimk, which is the Feast of Forgiveness.

Music of the Ko’jua A Ko’jua dance includes a song. The song is played using a Ji’kmaqn or a drum made from natural materials such as wood and animal skin, typically deer or moose hide. The Ji’kmaqn is a special Mi’kmaw instrument made from black or white ash trees. The wood is pounded with heavy rocks to create thin, flexible strips. When the Ji’kmaqn is slapped on a hand, palm, or thigh, it makes a loud and distinctive sound. A hand drum can also be used. Long ago, the Ji’kmaqn was used to make noise to scare wild animals away from camps.

Words to Know Ko’jua (Go-jew-ah): A fast traditional song and dance of the Mi’kmaw people. It is typically danced in a circle and shared at gatherings and celebrations. Regalia (Reh-gay-lee-uh): Special clothing worn during dances and ceremonies. Regalia is colourful and meaningful. Mawi’omi (Maa-wee-omh-me): A gathering or celebration of Mi’kmaw people. Powwows are a type of Mawi’omi.

There are about 15 Ko’jua songs that are well known in Mi’kma’ki. These songs are hundreds of years old. Some families have protected these songs and passed them down through generations. These Ko’jua dances also tell family stories, as some reflect a family’s connection to an animal or bird. For example, if your family is from the fox clan, your Ko’jua dance would emulate a fox moving as it hunts. Many inspiring stories tell how people learn to become dancers. The Ko’jua teaches people to celebrate one another and welcome others into the community. The Mi’kmaw people are proud of the teachings passed down by their ancestors. By keeping these traditions alive, families and communities help future generations feel the same pride and sense of belonging that comes with being Mi’kmaw.

Ji’kmaqn ( Jee-ah-ma-khan): A special Mi’kmaw instrument made from ash wood, known for its pleasant aroma. It makes a loud sound when slapped and is used for music and rhythm. Wi’kupaltimk (Wee-goo-bahl-timk): The Feast of Forgiveness, a special gathering where people share food, stories, and teachings.

Special thanks to NSITE’N, Sunshine Paul-Martin, and illustrator Aaron Googoo for their support in the creation of this content.

Learn more about the Mi’kmaq language at kinu.ca.

Halifax Regional Municipality

Musquodoboit Valley

Eastern Shore Airport Area

Bedford-Sackville DartmouthCole Harbour

Peggy’s Cove Coastal Region

West End Halifax Downtown Halifax

North End Halifax

Things to Do

in Each Region Airport Area Zoom over to the Airport Area, where planes take off and land. See if you can spot one in the sky! Bedford-Sackville Visit Bedford-Sackville’s heart-shaped pond and watch the ducks. You might even spot a frog on a lily pad. Dartmouth-Cole Harbour Dartmouth, known as the City of Lakes, is home to the Sullivan’s Pond geese. These local celebrities are often seen waddling across the street at the crosswalk while traffic waits politely for them.

Downtown Halifax Stroll through Downtown Halifax and explore the Public Gardens, a beautiful park with birds, trees, and flowers. Then wander along the Halifax Waterfront, full of fun things to see and do.

Halifax Regional Municipality (HRM) is the capital of Nova Scotia and the largest municipality in Atlantic Canada. It includes more than 200 unique communities in nine regions, stretching from Hubbards in the Peggy’s Cove Coastal Region all the way up to Ecum Secum on the Eastern Shore.

Eastern Shore Head to the Eastern Shore for a day at the beach. Build a sandcastle or try surfing if you’re feeling brave.   Musquodoboit Valley Take a drive through the Musquodoboit Valley, where you’ll see farms, fields, and animals. One special farm even has shaggy bison. North End Halifax Explore this historic neighbourhood filled with colourful houses, cool murals, parks, and cozy cafés. Peggy’s Cove Coastal Region Visit the iconic Peggy’s Point Lighthouse, climb the giant rocks, and explore the tidal pools. Enjoy a beach day and try a lobster roll for a tasty treat. West End Halifax Walk along Quinpool Road, grab a snack, and check out the amazing murals. Then visit the Dingle Tower, climb to the top, and take in the stunning view.

Colour the Regions Looking for a fun way to build excitement for your Halifax trip? Head to halifaxkids.ca for printable colouring fun. Try our Colouring Page Generator to create a page that’s totally your own, or choose from our Halifax Colouring Pages featuring the different regions. They’re easy to download, free to print, and perfect for keeping little hands busy while counting down to vacation, or re-living the fun once you’re home.

Colouring Page Generator

Turn a Halifax photo into a printable colouring page. Scan to start colouring.

The unexpected awaits for the whole family at the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia. Everyone will love Maud Lewis’ famous painted house and whimsical works of art, while finding hidden treasures in the gallery through fun activities.

902-424-5280 | Downtown Halifax | agns.ca

Things to Do

in Central Halifax Skate year-round on the Emera Oval. In summer, you can borrow inline and roller skates, bikes, and scooters. In winter, ice skates are available. Helmets are mandatory and can be brought from home or borrowed for free. A government-issued photo ID is required to borrow equipment. Note: The Emera Oval has accessible washrooms, accessible parking, adaptive equipment, and wheelchair access on the outside lane of the skating surface. Emera Oval

Swim at the Halifax Common Aquatics Facility. This free outdoor pool has five lanes, three climbing walls, a beach-style entry with play features, and spacious universal change rooms. Adaptive equipment, including lifejackets, a pool lift, and an aquatic chair, is available. Halifax Comm

on Aquatics Fa

cility

Meet Gus, the 103-year-old Gopher Tortoise at the Museum of Natural History. On warm days, you might spot him strolling in the backyard. When it’s chilly or rainy, he prefers exploring the museum galleries. His favourite treats include romaine lettuce, clover, dandelions, bananas, and juicy berries. Museum of Natural History

Browse the books at Woozles Children’s Bookstore. As Canada’s oldest bookstore for kids, Woozles is a Halifax favourite. They celebrate their 48th birthday on October 14, 2026.

Woozles Ch ildre

n’s Bookstor e

Enjoy a picnic on the Commons. In summer, spread out a picnic blanket and cool off with a scoop of Dee Dee’s Ice Cream, try a Halifax donair from Tony’s Famous Donair, or a slice of pizza from Morris East. In winter, stay warm with a hot chocolate from Café Lara or a hearty sandwich from Luke’s Small Goods.

e Cream

Dee Dee’s Ic

Tony’s Famou

s Donair

Halifax Common

Did you know that Halifax is home to one of the world’s longest downtown boardwalks?

Discover the

Halifax Waterfront Hollis St

Lower Water St Marginal Rd

Harbour South District

Seaport District

Georges Island

Landmarks ART MURAL WALL

DRUNKEN LAMPPOSTS

HALIFAX FERRY TERMINAL

OBSTACLE COURSE

SALT YARD SHOPS

SUBMARINE PLAYGROUND

WATERFRONT HAMMOCKS

THE WAVE

Attractions CANADIAN MUSEUM OF IMMIGRATION AT PIER 21

HALIFAX SEAPORT FARMERS’ MARKET

CSS ACADIA

HALIFAX BREWERY FARMERS’ MARKET

DISCOVERY CENTRE

GEORGES ISLAND NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE

HMCS SACKVILLE MARITIME MUSEUM OF THE ATLANTIC

Salter St

Bishop St

PARKING Are your grown-ups looking for a place to park? Look out for the symbol on Lower Water Street!

Morris St

The Halifax Waterfront is a beautiful place to explore. Walk the boardwalk from end to end to find tasty treats, colourful murals, and boats of all shapes and sizes.

This content was produced in partnership with Build Nova Scotia.

Looking for more things to do? Visit the Waterfront Welcome Kiosk at 1545 Salt Yard Way. Friendly ambassadors are there to answer questions and share maps and guides for exploring the Halifax region.

Prince St

George S t

Granville St

@buildnovascotia @mywaterfrontns #MyWaterfrontNS

Bedford Row Historic Properties

Salt Yard Queen’s Marque

Fe rry

d lan es Is g r o to Ge Ferry ) outh Dartm ( e d i s d o o W o t Ferry

Treats

Tours & Rentals

THE FOG COMPANY PANE E CIRCO PEACE BY CHOCOLATE SOFT YARD

(Do wnt own

Dar tmo uth)

Legend WASHROOMS

BEAVERTAILS COWS ICE CREAM

to Ald ern ey Lan din g

AMBASSATOURS GRAY LINE CITY HARBOUR CRUISES HALIFAX HARBOUR TOURS HARBOUR HOPPER TOURS

HARBOUR WATERCRAFT TOURS & ADVENTURES

PARKING

I HEART BIKES

SHOPPING DISTRICTS HALIFAX HARBOUR WALK

J FARWELL SAILING CO.

TIKI TOURS HALIFAX

FREE WIFI FRENCH SERVICES AVAILABLE PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTS OR DOCUMENTATION IN FRENCH

Portland Street Crêperie

Back to the Sea Centre

 The Back to the Sea Centre lets kids explore local marine life up close with touch tanks, fun exhibits, and hands-on learning by the ocean. Alderney Ferry

Portland Street

Crêperie serves sweet and savoury crêpes made fresh, making it a delicious stop during your Dartmouth adventures.

The Alderney Ferry offers a quick, fun ride across the harbour with great views, making it an easy adventure for kids. Shubie Park

Shubie Park is a beautiful place to explore, with wooded trails, canals, and plenty of spots for kids to run and play. Banook Playground

Sullivan’s Pond Park

Sullivan’s Pond Park is known

for the geese that settle here during the warmer months. It’s a great place to see ducks, and with Banook Playground close by, it’s an ideal spot to spend an afternoon.

Fisherman’s Cove

Fisherman’s Cove is a charming, more

than 200-year-old fishing village where kids can explore colourful little shacks and enjoy a tasty ice cream from Jo’s Old Time Candy & Ice Cream Parlour.

Kid-Friendly Places in

Halifax Transit Bridge Terminal

Zatzman Sportsplex

BRIGHTWOOD GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

Slayter St.

Sho

Win

re R

ill R

MACDONALD BRIDGE

Wyse Rd.

Dartmouth & Beyond Thistle St.

Bicentennial School Playground

Gea

ry S

Leighton Dillman Park

Tulip St.

Oak St.

Beech St.

Maple St.

Dartmouth Common

Pine St.

Victoria Rd.

Rose St.

Cric

Park Avenue Community Pizza Oven

Banook A

Dahlia St.

Nowlan St.

Bolton Terr. St.

rne ho

Hawthorn School Playground

. St ul om

Jam

Evergreen House Museum

es S

rt be

Dartmouth Cove Murals

alk urw rbo

Kings Wharf Pl.

Daffodil Garden for Cancer Survivors

rtl

Kiwanis Playground at Ferry Terminal Park

t St

r. ey D

Shubenacadie Canal

Sil

Dunolly St

Alde

Ellio

Ersk

Green St.

. e St

Café The Trainyard GoodLuck

Back to the Sea Centre

Sinclair St.

St. son

Strange Adventures

Findlay Community Centre Park

Eaton Av

Dundas St.

Victoria Rd.

Wentworth St.

e nc

King St.

School Chair Sculpture

Stone Pizza

Portland St.

Super Duper Soups

hto

World Peace Pavilion

Portland Street Crêperie Prince St.

DAY DOCKING

Alderney Gate Public Library

Ochterloney St.

Iris

FERRY TERMINAL

Pine Street Park

Two If By Yeah Yeah’s Sea Café Pizza

Queen St.

ve to ich

North St.

Quaker House

SULLIVAN’S POND

Tho

North St.

Myrtle St.

Historic Cemetery

Church St.

DARTMOUTH MARINA

Edward St.

Park Ave.

Alderney Dr.

DOWNTOWN HALIFAX

Thistle St.

il Tra

Po ea

Legend

tle

rtla

St.

WASHROOMS PARKING TRAIN TRACKS

SHOPPING DISTRICT PARK FREE WIFI

HARBOURWALK TRAIL

Punamu’kwati’jk is the Mi’kmaq name for the area known as Dartmouth. It means, ‘at the tomcod place.’ (A tomcod is a type of fish!)

Camping Around the

Halifax Region

Family-Friendly

Places to Stay

Dollar Lake Provincial Park

Halifax has lots of great places to stay, no matter what you’re looking for. From hotels with pools and waterslides to pet-friendly accommodations, you can easily find the perfect home base for your Halifax adventure.

Musquodoboit Valley

E&F Webber Lakeside Park Eastern Shore

Halifax West KOA

Legend

Bedford-Sackville

Hubbards Beach Campground & Cottages Peggy’s Cove Coastal Region

Pet-Friendly

Breakfast Included

Pool

Parking Included

Waterslide

King Neptune Campground Peggy’s Cove Coastal Region

Laurie Provincial Park

The Marmalade Motel

Airport Area

Murphy’s Camping on the Ocean Eastern Shore

Norse Cove Oceanfront Camping Eastern Shore

Porters Lake Provincial Park Eastern Shore

The Marmalade Motel

Shubie Campground

Eastern Shore CLOSE TO: Taylor Head Provincial Park, The Marmalade Cafe & Coffee Bar

Dartmouth-Cole Harbour

Wayside Camping Park

Peggy’s Cove Coastal Region

PET-FRIENDLY TIPS:

In Halifax, dogs get the VIP (Very Important Pup) treatment. Check out our dog-friendly travel guide to find shops, patios, and attractions you can enjoy with your furry friend.

rk Provincial Pa Dollar Lake

Murphy’s Cam pi

ng on the Ocea

A man is staying in a hotel. He walks up to the front desk and says, “Sorry. I forgot what room I’m in.” The receptionist replies, “No problem, sir. This is called the lobby.”

DOWNTOWN HALIFAX

BEYOND THE DOWNTOWN CORE

The Barrington Hotel

Alt Hotel Halifax Airport

Downtown Halifax ON-SITE RESTAURANT: Tempo Food + Drink

Airport Area

ON-SITE RESTAURANT: Sosta! Pizzeria

CLOSE TO: Halifax Waterfront, Scotiabank Centre

CLOSE TO: Atlantic Canada Aviation Museum, Oakfield Provincial Park

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Cambridge Suites Hotel Halifax

Atlantica Hotel Halifax

ON-SITE RESTAURANT: Canvas Resto Lounge

ON-SITE RESTAURANT: The Cannery

Downtown Halifax

CLOSE TO: Scotiabank Centre, Halifax Citadel •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Delta Hotels Halifax Downtown Downtown Halifax

ON-SITE RESTAURANT: Harbour City Bar & Grill CLOSE TO: Scotiabank Centre, Halifax Waterfront •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Four Points by Sheraton Halifax Downtown Halifax

ON-SITE RESTAURANT: Latitude 44 Restaurant + Taproom CLOSE TO: Halifax Waterfront, Harbour Hopper •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Halifax Marriott Harbourfront Hotel Downtown Halifax

ON-SITE RESTAURANT: Harbourstone CLOSE TO: Halifax Waterfront, Halifax Ferry Terminal •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Hampton Inn by Hilton Halifax Downtown Downtown Halifax CLOSE TO: Scotiabank Centre, Halifax Citadel •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

HI Halifax Heritage House

Downtown Halifax   CLOSE TO: Halifax Waterfront, Discovery Centre •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Lord Nelson Hotel & Suites Downtown Halifax

ON-SITE RESTAURANT: The Arms Restaurant CLOSE TO: Halifax Public Gardens, Spring Garden Road •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Moxy Halifax Hotel Downtown Halifax

ON-SITE RESTAURANT: Bar Moxy CLOSE TO: Scotiabank Centre, Halifax Common •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

The Prince George Hotel Halifax Downtown Halifax

ON-SITE RESTAURANT: Gio Restaurant, LevelBar CLOSE TO: Scotiabank Centre, Halifax Waterfront •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

The Westin Nova Scotian Downtown Halifax

ON-SITE RESTAURANT: Seaport Social CLOSE TO: Halifax Seaport Farmers’ Market, Discovery Centre

West End Halifax

CLOSE TO: Emera Oval, Museum of Natural History •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Best Western Plus Chocolate Lake Hotel West End Halifax

ON-SITE RESTAURANT:

Lakeside Bar & Grill

CLOSE TO: Chocolate Lake, Chain of Lakes Trail •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Best Western Plus Dartmouth Hotel & Suites

Dartmouth-Cole Harbour ON-SITE RESTAURANT: Trendz Gastropub CLOSE TO: Spectacle Lake Park, Dartmouth Crossing •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Chateau Bedford Hotel & Suites

Bedford-Sackville CLOSE TO: Bayers Lake Shopping District, Hemlock Ravine Park •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Coastal Inn Halifax Bedford-Sackville

CLOSE TO: Bayers Lake Shopping District, Long Lake Provincial Park •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Courtyard by Marriott Halifax Dartmouth

Dartmouth-Cole Harbour ON-SITE RESTAURANT: The Bistro CLOSE TO: Dartmouth Crossing, Cineplex Dartmouth Crossing •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Delta Hotels Dartmouth

Dartmouth-Cole Harbour ON-SITE RESTAURANT: Pitch & Pivot CLOSE TO: Dartmouth Crossing, Shubie Park •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Halifax - Dartmouth Dartmouth-Cole Harbour CLOSE TO: Dartmouth Crossing, Shubie Park •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Halifax – Bedford

Bedford-Sackville CLOSE TO: Hemlock Ravine Park, Bayers Lake Shopping District •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Halifax – Dartmouth Dartmouth-Cole Harbour CLOSE TO: Spectacle Lake Park, Dartmouth Crossing •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Sandman Signature Dartmouth Hotel & Suites Dartmouth-Cole Harbour ON-SITE RESTAURANT: Bar One and Denny’s CLOSE TO: Dartmouth Crossing, Shubie Park •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Wilson’s Coastal Club Resort

Peggy’s Cove Coastal Region CLOSE TO: Cleveland Beach, Peggy’s Point Lighthouse

Fun Things to Do

for Every Season

No matter the time of year, there’s always something fun to do in Halifax.

□ S pot the ducks! Sullivan’s Pond and

Shubie Park in Dartmouth, Frog Pond Trail in Armdale, and the HeartShaped Pond in Bedford are all fantastic places to see ducks and geese.

□ E njoy the blooming flowers and spot

migratory birds at the Halifax Public Gardens.

□O n rainy days, visit a Halifax Public

Libraries branch and dive into a good book. The Alderney Gate Library in Dartmouth and the Keshen Goodman Library in Clayton Park are especially great for kids.

Spring

□ C atch a Halifax Wanderers FC men’s

fall hike. Some of the best places to see fall colours include: Shubie Park, Sir Sandford Fleming Park, and the Musquodoboit Valley. See page 32 for a list of five kid-friendly Halifax hikes.

□ B rave the Halifax Citadel Ghost Tour (Jul-Oct) or a Halifax Ghost Walk Tour (May-Nov)—if you dare! ander the city streets during □W

Lighthouse, stop by Six by the Sea where you can grab kid-approved fries and ice cream at Hunky Dory, then browse fun coastal toys at Holy Mackerel. (Apr-Oct)

□ V isit I Heart Bikes to enjoy a family ride along the Halifax Waterfront, then grab a snack from one of the many vendors at the Salt Yard.

□ Teens and older kids can feel like

they are in a real-life video game at Activate Halifax, an interactive gaming experience that gets everyone moving.

soccer match at the Wanderers Grounds, or cheer on the Halifax Tides FC women’s soccer team. (Apr-Oct)

□ S ee the changing leaves on a crisp

Autumn

□ A fter exploring Peggy’s Point

Nocturne, Halifax’s free nighttime outdoor art festival. (Oct)

□ R ock out at FamFest Atlantic, the

brand new two-day music festival for kids and grown-ups at Alderney Landing in Downtown Dartmouth. (Sep)

et geeky with friends. □G

Sci-fi and fantasy fans will love Hal-Con, the biggest sci-fi convention in Atlantic Canada! (Nov)

□ E njoy an exciting day of

bowling, arcade games, and tasty treats at Playdium or one of the Bowlarama locations.

□ E mbark on an adventure

with indoor climbing at Seven Bays Bouldering or East Peak Climbing.

□ See a play at Neptune Theatre.

□ Head to the beach! See page 40 for great beaches for families.

□ V isit Fisherman’s Cove, an active

fishing village with more than 200 years of history, featuring rows of colourful shops along the boardwalk. Then, head to the Lower Base Shearwater Playground to burn off some energy.

□ J oin the fun at the Clam Harbour Beach Sandcastle Competition and watch spectacular sandy masterpieces come to life! (Aug) □ D ance to the family-friendly music

Summer

programming at the Halifax Jazz Festival! (Jul)

□ E xperience Nova Scotia’s premier

summer spectacle, the Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo. (Jul)

hill out at the Downtown Dartmouth □ C Ice Festival! (Jan-Feb)

atch a Halifax Mooseheads □ C

game (Sep-Mar) or watch the Halifax Thunderbirds play (Dec-Apr) for exciting hockey and lacrosse action.

eet Spruce, the holiday gonk, at □ M

the Evergreen Festival on the Halifax Waterfront. (Nov-Dec)

reet Woody the Talking Christmas □G

Winter

Tree at Mic Mac Mall in Dartmouth. (Nov-Dec)

□ Join the fun and community spirit at the Light Up Bedford Parade! (Nov)

□ B e part of one of Halifax’s most

beloved annual events, the Halifax Pride Parade during the Halifax Pride Festival. (Jul)

□ T ake in a live outdoor performance

from Shakespeare by the Sea in Point Pleasant Park. (Jul-Sep) (BY DONATION)

□ Experience music, comedy,

acrobatics, and more magical performances at the Halifax Busker Festival. (Jul-Aug) (BY DONATION)

□ Fly a kite on Citadel Hill at the East Coast Kite Festival. (Jul)

□ Experience amusement rides,

livestock shows, truck pulls, and more at the Halifax County Exhibition in Middle Musquodoboit. (Aug)

□ W atch the Dartmouth Christmas

Tree Lighting at Sullivan’s Pond while enjoying fun performances and yummy treats! (Dec)

njoy the twinkling lights and □ E

a special visit from Santa at the Holiday Parade of Lights in Downtown Halifax. (Nov)

□ Explore Glow, an enchanting light

festival featuring dazzling displays, food, entertainment, and games.

(Nov-Dec)

□ Go sledding on Citadel Hill or skate on the Emera Oval.

Be sure to check online schedules when planning your trip.

halifax.ca/transportation/halifax-transit/ferry-service

Everything a Kid Should Know About the

Halifax Harbour Ferry Have you ever wondered what it’s like to ride the waves across the Halifax Harbour? The Halifax Harbour Ferry is a super fun way to travel between Halifax and Dartmouth, and we’ve got everything you (and your grown-ups) need to know to enjoy one of Halifax’s most unique and wonderful ways to see both sides of the harbour.

What is the Halifax Harbour Ferry?

Why It’s Fun for Families

The ferry is part of Halifax Transit, just like the buses

Riding the ferry is a great way to see both

in the city, but this one floats! It takes you across

Halifax and Dartmouth from the water. The

the harbour between Downtown Halifax and

islands in the harbour, both waterfronts, and the

Dartmouth. The trip is quick and relaxing, taking

wake from the ferry make for awesome views.

only 15 minutes, and kids under 12 ride for free.

There’s a fun playground on both the Halifax

A Historic Ride The Halifax Harbour Ferry isn’t just any ferry; it’s the

and Dartmouth waterfronts, right near the ferry terminals, so it’s a perfect way to land and stretch your legs.

oldest salt water passenger ferry service in North America! The very first official ferry service across the Halifax Harbour started back in 1752 (over 270 years ago!), when people used simple, sturdy rowboats to cross the water. Over time, things got fancier: there was a horse-powered “team boat,” and later, in 1830, the first steam-powered ferry in Nova Scotia. Halifax’s ferries have continued to run through major events, including both World Wars and even the Halifax Explosion. Taking the Halifax Harbour Ferry is a really cool experience. It’s practical, fun, and helps you see the city in a totally different way—right from the water! Whether you’re going for a quick ride or making it part of a big Halifax day, the ferry is an unmissable experience.

Alderney Ferry

•

Tips for Your Ferry Adventure • Arrive a little early to make sure you have plenty of time to get ready to board. • Take lots of pictures! The views from the harbour are great for photos, especially with the downtown skyline behind you. • Pair your ferry ride with a walk. The Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk is more than 4 km long, and there are lots of cool shops and treats to explore on Portland Street in Downtown Dartmouth.

Things Grown-Ups Should Know • Ferry service runs between Downtown Halifax and Dartmouth, with service to Dartmouth’s Alderney Landing and Woodside terminals. • The ride across the harbour takes

Fun Facts for Kids (and Curious Grown-Ups)

about 15 minutes. • Ferry fare is $3 one way for adults,

• The first steam ferry, the Sir Charles Ogle, could cross the

$2.25 for youth (13-17) and seniors

harbour in just seven minutes—way faster than the rowboats

(65+), and children under 12 ride free.

and horse-powered boats that came before. • Ask for a free transfer when you • The harbour itself is really special; it’s one of the largest and

purchase your fare for a limited-time

deepest natural ice-free harbours in the world.

return trip (valid for up to 90 minutes).

• Back in the very early days, some ferry rides were signalled

• The ferry service is accessible and

by blowing into a conch shell instead of a horn!

integrated with the bus service, which means you can use a transfer to

• The names of the ferries come from important people in

board both ferries and buses.

Halifax’s history, like the Rita Joe and Vincent Coleman ferries, named after a Mi’kmaw poet and a hero of the

• The ferry terminal accepts exact

Halifax Explosion, respectively.

change, Halifax Transit tickets, or payment via the HFXGO mobile app. Learn more about the ferry service at halifax.ca/transit.

Kid-Friendly

Restaurants

What makes a restaurant kid-friendly? A kids’ menu! Big booths! Activity sheets! All this and more can be found at the following Halifax restaurants.

The Armview Restaurant & Lounge

The Chickenburger

COZY OLD-SCHOOL DINER

FOR KIDS: Kids’ combos, milkshakes, retro diner décor, working jukebox, Chicken Little ice cream parlour around back. FOR GROWN-UPS: Delicious diner classics.

West End Halifax

FOR KIDS: Kids’ menu, milkshakes, booths,

views of the boats in the Northwest Arm. FOR GROWN-UPS: Nostalgic old-school diner décor, spiked milkshakes.

Bluenose II Restaurant Downtown Halifax

HOMESTYLE FAMILY DINER FOR KIDS: Booths, ice cream sundaes. FOR GROWN-UPS: Local history (the restaurant opened in 1964!), convenient downtown location, space to park a stroller. MUST-TRY: Chocolate Turtle Brownie.

Boondocks Restaurant Dartmouth-Cole Harbour OCEANFRONT SEAFOOD RESTAURANT FOR KIDS: Kids’ menu, search for rubber

ducks hidden around the restaurant, views of the Halifax Harbour, outdoor patio. FOR GROWN-UPS: Fresh seafood, explore the Fisherman’s Cove village after your meal.

Chain Yard Taproom

RETRO FAMILY DINER

Chick N’ Chill

Dartmouth-Cole Harbour FRIED CHICKEN JOINT FOR KIDS: Crispy, fresh chicken, savoury sides, kid-friendly environment. FOR GROWN-UPS: Delicious family combos, Filipino-style spaghetti, friendly service. MUST-TRY: Popcorn chicken, chicken burger.

CHKN CHOP North End Halifax

CHARCOAL CHICKEN JOINT FOR KIDS: Freshly baked cookies, mac n’ cheese, and international sodas. FOR GROWN-UPS: Family combos, local beer.

Darrell’s Restaurant Downtown Halifax

North End Halifax

LOCAL FAVOURITE BURGER JOINT

FAMILY-FRIENDLY CRAFT CIDERY & RESTAURANT

FOR KIDS: Kids’ menu, award-winning oldfashioned milkshakes. FOR GROWN-UPS: Cozy setting, quality ingredients. MUST-TRY: The Peanut Butter Burger.

FOR KIDS: Kids’ menu, big-screen movies

with headphones, play area with toys. FOR ADULTS: Local craft cider on tap, globally inspired, dietary restrictionfriendly menu.

Cheeky Neighbour Diner West End Halifax

NEIGHBOURHOOD DINER WITH A MODERN TWIST

FOR KIDS: All-day breakfast, diner décor. FOR GROWN-UPS: Local ingredients, vegan options, brunch Caesars, rotating local beers. MUST-TRY: Chef’s French Toast Special.

Bedford-Sackville

Easy Street Diner Bedford-Sackville

RETRO-STYLE FAMILY DINER FOR KIDS: Kids’ menu, all-day breakfast, milkshakes, retro diner décor. FOR GROWN-UPS: Hard milkshakes, dietary restriction-friendly options, quality ingredients, environmentally conscious.

Chain Yard Taproom hosts a BYOBB (Bring Your Own Baby to the Bar) event on the last Saturday of each month. Kids can watch big-screen movies with headphones and play in a toy-filled area, while parents relax nearby. Kids’ menus and high chairs make it an easy family outing.

Freeman’s Little New York 4 LOCATIONS: Bedford-Sackville (x2),

Downtown Halifax

, West End Halifax

Legend Breakfast/Brunch

Accessible Features

Kids’ Menu Available

Vegetarian/Vegan/ Gluten Free Options

Sushi Jet

2 LOCATIONS: Downtown Halifax , Dartmouth-Cole Harbour SUSHI RESTAURANT

NEW-YORK STYLE PIZZERIA FOR KIDS: Kids’ menu, colouring &

activities, booths. FOR GROWN-UPS: Drink specials, lunch specials, plenty of options for everyone.

A Good Day Kitchen & Café Airport Area

SMALL FAMILY-RUN CAFÉ FOR KIDS: “Babyccino” (steamed milk

with sprinkles in a cute little mug). FOR GROWN-UPS: Delicious coffee, breakfasts, baked goods.

FOR KIDS: Robots who take orders and deliver the food! FOR GROWN-UPS: All-you-can-eat sushi, quick service.

The Oxford Taproom West End Halifax

BRING-YOUR-OWN-FOOD TAPROOM FOR KIDS: Spacious patio with large tables. Nearby kid-friendly takeout options. FOR GROWN-UPS: Cozy vibes, wide selection of unique craft beers, café.

Ristorante a Mano

Mic Mac Bar & Grill Dartmouth-Cole Harbour

TAVERN-STYLE FAMILY RESTAURANT FOR KIDS: Kids’ menu, delicious desserts. FOR GROWN-UPS: Large portions, and a bustling, family-friendly atmosphere. MUST-TRY: Delicious steaks.

Downtown Halifax

NEIGHBOURHOOD ITALIAN TRATTORIA FOR KIDS: “Bambino menu”, delicious homemade gelato and sorbet. FOR GROWN-UPS: Authentic Italian home cooking in a waterfront location.

Vernon’s Thunderbird Diner Morris East

2 LOCATIONS: Bedford-Sackville, West End

Halifax NEIGHBOURHOOD PIZZERIA AND SLICE SHOP FOR KIDS: Kids-size pizzas, gelato. FOR GROWN-UPS: Prosecco happy hour.

North Brewing Company

Bedford-Sackville

RETRO-STYLE FAMILY DINER FOR KIDS: Classic treats like milkshakes and banana splits. Download the walking trail map to explore after your meal. FOR GROWN-UPS: Family Bundle Menu, all-day breakfast.

The Wooden Monkey

2 LOCATIONS: Dartmouth-Cole Harbour,

Downtown Halifax

Peggy’s Cove Coastal Region

LOCAL FARM-TO-TABLE FARE

FAMILY-FRIENDLY MICRO-BREWERY & RESTAURANT

FOR KIDS: Kids’ menu, front row seats to watch the ferry come and go (Dartmouth location). FOR GROWN-UPS: Locally-sourced, environmentally conscious ingredients and dietary accommodations.

FOR KIDS: Kid-sized fish & chips, board

games, and arcades. FOR GROWN-UPS: Local craft beer on tap, Southeast Asian flavours.

Why did the pie have such a hard time on the test? Because it wasn’t a piece of cake.

Halifax’s Coolest

Ice Cream Shops Black Bear Ice Cream

Downtown Halifax What to Expect: Old-fashioned homemade ice cream in a waterfront location.

Booza Emessa

Bedford-Sackville What to Expect: Small-batch Syrian ice cream made with Nova Scotian dairy products.

Boutique Eatery with Naana and Daren Peggy’s Cove Coastal Region What to Expect: Delicious gluten-free baked goods and dairy-free ice cream topped with stunning edible garnishes.

Bubba Magoos Peggy’s Cove Coastal Region What to Expect: Takeout window serving creamy Maritime-made ice cream sandwiches and other savoury snacks.

Cavicchi’s Meats

Peggy’s Cove Coastal Region What to Expect: Ice cream served from a takeout window with a cute patio next to St. Margaret’s Bay Rails to Trails.

Chicken Little Café

Bedford-Sackville What to Expect: Kid sizes and ice cream hurricanes.

Churned

Dartmouth-Cole Harbour What to Expect: Plant-based ice cream, ice cream flights (5 mini scoops), hot and cold drinks and more vegan treats.

What did the teddy bear say when it finished eating? “I’m stuffed.”

COWS Halifax

3 Downtown Halifax locations, seasonal kiosk in Bedford-Sackville at BOOMburger What to Expect: Scoops, sundaes, shakes, and a unique variety of treats, including their popular chocolatecovered potato chips.

The Dairy Bar

Downtown Halifax What to Expect: Soft-serve and sundaes made with seasonal ingredients, fun cereals, and snack food.

Dee Dee’s Ice Cream

2 North End Halifax locations What to Expect: Small-batch homemade ice cream made with local ingredients.

Flynn’s Dairy Bar & Convenience

Churned

Hunky Dory Peggy’s Cove Coastal Region What to Expect: Seaside takeout offering imaginative soft-serve ice cream and french fry creations.

Jo’s Old Time Candy & Ice Cream Parlour

Dartmouth-Cole Harbour What to Expect: Ice cream, candy, and dessert in a working fishing village.

The Little Ice Cream Shop

Peggy’s Cove Coastal Region What to Expect: Soft-serve, sundaes, and shares with both dairy and vegan options. Tons of toppings available!

Pane e Circo

2 Downtown Halifax locations What to Expect: Housemade gelato and sorbet.

Polar Bear Express

Downtown Halifax | North End Halifax | Peggy’s Cove Coastal Region What to Expect: Tons of flavours of milkshakes, sundaes, and scoops.

Eastern Shore What to Expect: Ice cream, sundaes and cold drinks. Cash only.

The Fog Company

Downtown Halifax What to Expect: Soft-serve ice cream in a fluffy fish-shaped waffle cone.

Downtown Halifax What to Expect: Imaginative ice cream and cotton candy confections, cookies, and doughnuts.

Hubbards Beach Campground Canteen Peggy’s Cove Coastal Region What to Expect: Takeout window serving ice cream and lunch.

Taiyaki 52

What’s the Scoop Dartmouth-Cole Harbour What to Expect: Ice cream, treats, and a dinner menu in Fisherman’s Cove.

4 LOCATIONS: Bedford-Sackville

BONUS SHOP

Freak Lunchbox

Downtown Halifax Dartmouth-Cole Harbour West End Halifax What to Expect: Head to Freak Lunchbox for a huge selection of candy in a quirky and colourful store!

Halifax Loves Hot Chocolate When the fog rolls in, nothing tastes better than a cozy cup of cocoa from one of these local cafés.

Bird’s Nest Cafe Downtown Halifax

Cafe Byron

North End Halifax

Café GoodLuck

Dartmouth-Cole Harbour

Dilly Dally Eats West End Halifax

Labour Day Picnic Café Peggy’s Cove Coastal Region

Lëvantic Bakery and Café Bedford-Sackville

Margaret’s Café

Peggy’s Cove Coastal Region

The Marmalade Café & Coffee Bar Polar Bear Express

Eastern Shore

Peace by Chocolate Downtown Halifax

Pink Piano Cafe Bedford-Sackville

Legend Pup-Cup Services in French upon request

Rousseau Chocolatier Downtown Halifax

Sully & Porter West End Halifax

Tart & Soul Café Downtown Halifax

Note: Many of these businesses operate seasonally, so make sure to check online before heading out to scoop up a cone! Note: Some ice cream shops in Halifax accept cash only, so it’s best to come prepared with multiple forms of payment.

Terra Cafe

Downtown Halifax

Two If By Sea Café

Dartmouth-Cole Harbour

The Noon Gun

Le coup de canon de midi

It’s a Halifax tradition. Every day, the Royal Artillery fires the noon gun at the Halifax Citadel. The Royal Aritllery maintained and operated the canons, ammunition and powder.

C’est une tradition à Halifax. Tous les jours, l’Artillerie royale tire le coup de canon de midi à la citadelle d’Halifax. L’Artillerie royale entretenait le matériel, faisait fonctionner les canons et fabriquait les munitions et la poudre.

Help the soldier carry the flame through the maze to the Citadel to ignite the canon for the noon gun.

Aidez le soldat à porter la flamme à travers le labyrinthe jusqu'à la Citadelle afin de déclencher le canon pour le coup de canon de midi.

Calling all kids, solve a 19th century mystery and help the soldiers foil enemy plans with Citadel Adventures!

À tous les enfants! Percez un mystère du XIXe siècle et aidez les soldats à déjouer les plans de l’ennemis avec Les Aventures de la Citadelle!

902-426-5080 parks.canada.ca/halifaxcitadel

902-426-5080 parcs.canada.ca/citadellehalifax

Things to Do Outside Fresh air, big adventures, and fun for everyone!

Halifax Public Gardens

Downtown Halifax This 16-acre urban oasis is a perfect place for a family afternoon. Explore winding trails, cross fairytale bridges, admire colourful flower beds, and watch ducks paddling in ponds. There is something new to discover around every corner.

Fisherman’s Cove Dartmouth-Cole Harbour

Atlantic Splash Adventure Bedford-Sackville This water park in Hammonds Plains has eight waterslides, a kiddie splash pool, a Ferris wheel, go-karts, and more. It’s one of the best spots for family-friendly summer fun.

Just 20 minutes from Downtown Halifax, this 200+-year-old restored fishing village looks like it came straight from an East Coast postcard. Stroll the boardwalk with an ice cream, visit nearby MacCormacks Beach Provincial Park, or take a ferry to McNabs Island for a day of adventure.

Splashifax Bedford-Sackville Splashifax is Nova Scotia’s first floating water park, where kids can jump, slide, and splash on giant inflatable obstacles, including the world’s largest inflatable unicorn. Grab your lifejacket and dive into an hour and a half of fun.

Legend Accessible Features Free Pet-Friendly Pool Seasonal Waterslide

Even More

Things to Do Outside

Memory Lane Heritage Village Peggy’s Cove

Peggy’s Cove Coastal Region

Halifax Citadel National Historic Site Downtown Halifax At the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site, visitors can experience life as a 19thcentury soldier. There are plenty of fun family activities, including solving a 100-yearold mystery using a comic book guide and learning how to send coded messages. The Citadel grounds are open to explore

Perched on a stretch of rocks overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, Peggy’s Point Lighthouse is an iconic Canadian landmark. Kids can have fun climbing and exploring the big rock formations and checking out the enormous lighthouse. Just be careful to stay off the black, wet rocks.

all year.

FREE ADMISSION FOR YOUTH 17

& UNDER

Why is Peggy’s Cove so popular? Because it rocks!

Eastern Shore This living history museum shows what rural coastal life was like in Nova Scotia during the 1940s. It features a working general store, schoolhouse, cookhouse, and workshop. With fewer crowds on the Eastern Shore, you can take your time exploring, playing, and enjoying all the fun memorabilia. FREE ADMISSION FOR KIDS 5 & UNDER

Legend Accessible Features Free French Services Available Pet-Friendly Seasonal

Georges Island National Historic Site

Harbour Hopper Tours Downtown Halifax

This popular tour travels through historic Halifax before splashing into the harbour aboard the amphibious Harbour Hopper. You’ll learn fun Halifacts and see the city’s highlights on this iconic adventure.

Halifax Waterfront

Downtown Halifax the Full of fun for all ages, great Halifax Waterfront is a can s Kid s. ilie fam place for e play on the Submarin ds Playground, sample foo dors, ven d Yar lt Sa the m fro watch the ships in the the harbour, and relax on waterfront hammocks.

Halifax Harbour | Downtown Halifax Travel by ferry from the Halifax Waterfront to visit this historic harbour island. Explore the underground tunnels and discover massive cannons that were once used to protect the harbour. FREE ADMISSION FOR KIDS 5 & UNDER

Animal Adventures in Halifax

Calling all animal lovers! Get ready to meet some of Halifax’s furry, majestic, and amusing land and sea creatures. Learn, play, and explore at these family-friendly farms and wildlife centres.

Ataraxy Farm Eastern Shore

Ataraxy Farm is a mental health therapy farm focused on helping others. They offer free tours where you can meet friendly goats, horses, chickens, donkeys, and even a mule. The farm also makes skin and hair care products using goat’s milk, with all proceeds going back to caring for the animals. Tours are available by appointment through their website, along with other activities like equine learning and craft classes. You’ll leave feeling happy and recharged.

Beaty Centre for Marine Biodiversity

Downtown Halifax This new marine centre is an exciting place where you can explore the underwater world of Nova Scotia without even getting wet. Located at Dalhousie University, it features more than 30 exhibits. One of the highlights is a super cool 18-metre blue whale skeleton suspended across the atrium. Using Ocean School’s augmented reality technology, you can watch the skeleton come to life.

Meet amazing ocean creatures like spotted wolffish, sea cucumbers, hermit crabs, sea stars, and lots more! You’ll also learn about caring for the ocean and the wisdom of Indigenous Peoples. The centre shares the Mi’kmaq idea of Netukulimk, which teaches us to live in balance and treat the sea with respect.

Cole Harbour Heritage Farm Museum Dartmouth–Cole Harbour

Travel back in time and see what life was like on a family farm more than 100 years ago. Wander through historic buildings, beautiful gardens, and walking trails. At the Cole Harbour Heritage Farm Museum, you’ll also meet adorable farm animals like sheep, chickens, calves, and pigs, and learn why they are so important to our world. Feeling hungry after your adventure? Stop by the Rose & Kettle Tea Room for yummy homemade treats. Before you head home, remember to visit the gift shop for fun animal-themed treasures to help you remember your visit.

Hope for Wildlife

Eastern Shore If you want to hear some of the most inspiring animal stories, visit Hope for Wildlife. The centre rescues, rehabilitates, and releases injured and orphaned wild animals, and they have helped more than 90,000 of them. You can visit their education centre and outdoor wildlife garden trail for free.

They have dozens of creatures for you to meet, from local wildlife to exotic species and domestic animals. The best part is all the baby animals you might get to see. You can enjoy a break in the picnic gardens or grab a snack at Café Catio, home of Jessie the bobcat. Hope for Wildlife is a charitable organization, so be sure to explore the many ways you can support their work.

Hatfield Farm

Bedford–Sackville For a cowboy adventure, head to Hatfield Farm and experience horsedrawn wagon or sleigh rides year-round. Feed and learn about alpacas, cows, donkeys, and goats in the petting pen, or try your skills on the supervised mechanical bull and bouncy castles.

In the summer, after making friends with the animals, put on your swimsuit and visit Splashifax, Nova Scotia’s first floating water park, located on Second Lake at the farm.

Lindsay Lake Farms

Musquodoboit Valley Lindsay Lake Farms is a magical place where animals roam free, and you get to wander right along with them. Meet chickens and horses, along with the stars of the farm: the bison herd. Join a guided bison tour where you can drive and walk around the herd while learning fascinating facts about these shaggy and majestic animals. It feels like a Canadian safari!

As you explore, keep your eyes open for a beaver dam, owls, wild blueberries, and other surprises. Advanced booking is recommended.

5 Halifax Hikes

Under 5 km Because kids’ legs are shorter than adults’! Remember to respect these natural areas. Keep dogs leashed unless in an off leash area, and pack out all garbage.

Point Pleasant Park Trails

Jerry Lawrence Provincial Park Trail Peggy’s Cove Coastal Region

Downtown Halifax

TYPE: Park loop along the

waterfront and through woods, with criss-crossing wooded trails. LENGTH: 3.4 km (perimeter loop) with 39 km of trails throughout the park. TRAILHEAD: Parking lots at the end of Point Pleasant Drive and Tower Road. SURFACE: Crusher dust, wood chips, partially paved. FEATURES: Waterfront trail, off-leash dog walking areas, preserved military fortifications, stroller-friendly paths, ocean views, picnic tables, benches.

Bedford-Sackville

TYPE: Linear boardwalk.

TYPE: Loop trail.

LENGTH: 1 km

LENGTH: 1.1 km

TRAILHEAD: Parking on Lewis Road, off St. Margaret’s Bay Road. SURFACE: Gravel and wooden surface (boardwalk). FEATURES: Stroller-friendly and wheelchair-accessible trail, drive-in picnic areas, public washrooms, lake access, fishing wharf.

TRAILHEAD: Located at the

end of Convoy Way. SURFACE: Wooden surface (boardwalk). FEATURES: Waterfront trail with ocean views, picnic tables, benches, public washrooms. CONNECTS TO FORT SACKVILLE WALKWAY IN THE FISH HATCHERY PARK AND THE BEDFORD SACKVILLE GREENWAY CORRIDOR.

TRAIL CONNECTS TO ST. MARGARET’S BAY TRAIL.

POINT PLEASANT PARK IS OPEN 5AMMIDNIGHT.

ardwalk

Bo DeWolf Park

l Park

Jerry Lawrence Provincia

DeWolf Park Boardwalk

Jerry Lawrence Provincia

l Park

Tick Warning: Ticks like to hang out in tall grass and wooded areas, so keep an eye out while you hike. Stay on the trail, wear long sleeves or pants, choose light-coloured clothing if you can, and do a quick tick check when you finish your adventure. If you find one, ask an adult to help remove it safely.

MORE STROLLER-FRIENDLY TRAILS Atlantic View Trail

Eastern Shore | 10 km | linear

Beechville Lakeside Timberlea (BLT) Trail Bedford-Sackville | 13 km | linear

Chain of Lakes Trail

Bedford-Sackville | 7.25 km | linear

Cole Harbour Heritage Park Trail

Dartmouth-Cole Harbour | 9 km | linear

Dartmouth Harbourfront Trail

Dartmouth-Cole Harbour | 3 km | linear

Shubie Park Loop Trail Dartmouth-Cole Harbour

TYPE: Loop trail through

large, wooded park. LENGTH: 2 km TRAILHEAD: Parking off Locks Road at the trail’s south end. SURFACE: Gravel trail. FEATURES: Wildlife, lake views, scenic canal, seasonal canteen, stroller-friendly paths, swimming beach with lifeguards.

Frog Pond Trail West End Halifax

TYPE: Loop trail around large duck-filled pond. LENGTH: 1.4 km TRAILHEAD: Parking can be found on Purcell’s Cove Road. SURFACE: Natural wooded trail. FEATURES: Boardwalks, benches, lots of ducks. CONNECTS TO SIR SANDFORD FLEMING PARK VIA DINGLE ROAD.

First Lake Glen Slauenwhite Trail Bedford-Sackville | 3.3 km | linear

Gaetz Brook Greenway

Eastern Shore | 6.8 km | linear

Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk

Downtown Halifax | 3.8 km | linear

Long Lake Provincial Park Lakeview Trail Peggy’s Cove Coastal Region | 3.5 km | loop

Musquodoboit Trailway

Eastern Shore | 15 km | linear

Salt Marsh Trail

Eastern Shore | 6.5 km | linear

Sackville Lakes Park and Trails Bedford-Sackville | 5.3 km | linear

Seaview Trail at Africville Park North End Halifax | 1 km | loop

Shearwater Flyer Trail

Dartmouth-Cole Harbour | 8 km | linear

Sir Sandford Fleming Park Trails West End Halifax | 2.8 km | loop Frog Pond

SS Atlantic Heritage Park Trail

Peggy’s Cove Coastal Region | 1 km | linear

The Ultimate Halifax

Playground Guide Halifax is a playground paradise! With playgrounds at nearly every elementary school and in many neighbourhoods, there’s always a spot for kids to have fun. This guide highlights the bigger playgrounds with the most to offer.

8 Downtown Halifax

Dingle Playground at Sir Sandford Fleming Park

Features: Log tower natural playground | Senior & junior play zones | Musical instruments | Waterfront location

Gorsebrook Playground

Nearby: Green space | Gorsebrook Park | Softball/ Baseball diamond

Kiwanis Playground at Ferry Terminal Park Dartmouth-Cole Harbour

Lower Base Shearwater Playground Dartmouth-Cole Harbour

Features: Rubberized surfaces | Rope climbing | Carousel | Waterfront location

Features: Rubberized surfaces | Rope climbing | Carousel | Swings | Monkey Bars

Nearby: Alderney Ferry Terminal | Harbourwalk Trail

Nearby: Fisherman’s Cove, MacCormacks Beach Provincial Park

West End Halifax

Nearby: Dingle Tower | Walking trails & seawall walkway | Green space | Picnic area | Boat launch

Peace and Friendship Park Downtown Halifax

Features: Rubberized surfaces | Carousel | Swings Nearby: Discovery Centre | The Board Room Game Cafe | Halifax Waterfront

CONCEPT RENDERING

Fort Needham Memorial Park Playground North End Halifax

Halifax Common Playground North End Halifax

Features: Natural playground with accessible features | Wooden cannon | Lookout tower | Spider web climber | Swings

Playgrounds

Further Afield DeWolf Park Playground on the Bedford Waterfront Bedford-Sackville

Features: Rubberized surfaces | Ship-themed design | Waterfront location Nearby: Boardwalk | Picnic area

Grand Lake Oakfield Playground Airport Area

Lake Banook Playground Dartmouth-Cole Harbour

Submarine Playground on the Halifax Waterfront

Upper Musquodoboit Wooden Playground Musquodoboit Valley

Downtown Halifax

Features: Castle-themed design | Wooden tower | Rope climber | Puppet theatre

Features: Rubberized surfaces | Accessible features | Interactive submarine | Rope climber | Waterfront location

Nearby: Musquodoboit Valley Provincial Park | Musquodoboit River | Nature learning and play space

Nearby: Salt Yard | Maritime Museum of the Atlantic | Waterfront activities

Playgrounds + Splash Pads If you’re looking for a playground where you can also cool off, check out these playground-splash pad combos. With fun water features and safe, non-slip surfaces, these splash pads are a great way to beat the summer heat.

Beat the heat at Halifax Common, Isleville Centre, George Dixon Community Centre, and Sackville Splash Pad. These splash pads are packed with water-filled fun and designed so kids using walkers or non-motorized wheelchairs can join in too.

Bayers Westwood Inclusive Playground Park + Splashpad West End Halifax

Isleville Playground + Splashpad North End Halifax

Features: Interactive games | Tube slide | Swings | Picnic area Nearby: Green space | Hydrostone District

Bedford Basin

Lake Micmac

Topsail Lake

DartmouthCole Harbour BedfordSackville

North End Halifax 2 Alderney Ferry

Bissett Lake Morris Lake

Peggy’s Cove Coastal Region

e dsid y Woo Ferr

West End Halifax

Arm

Downtown Halifax

12 Wing Shearwater

Halifax Harbour

n ter

Eas

North End Halifax

Sackville Splash Pad + Kinsmen Park Bedford-Sackville

age

Jumpstart Inclusive Playground + George Dixon Splash Pad

s Pas

McNabs & Lawlor Island Provincial Park

Westmount Inclusive Playground Park + Splash Pad West End Halifax

Pools

Outdoor

Pools Cole Harbour Outdoor Pool + Splash Pad Dartmouth-Cole Harbour Supervised swimming | Splash pad | Toddler wading pool | Diving board

Halifax Common Aquatics Facility

Halifax Common

Playground

Cole Harbour Outdoor Pool

Sackville Sports Stadium

Indoor

Pools

Canada Games Centre

Bedford-Sackville Shallow tots pool | Sprinklers | Diving boards | Water slides | Hot tub

Captain William Spry Community Centre

Peggy’s Cove Coastal Region Wave pool | Slide | Climbing wall

Cole Harbour Place

Dartmouth-Cole Harbour Slide | Pads for babies and toddlers

East Hants Aquatic Centre

Musquodoboit Valley Shallow tots pool | Waterslide | Climbing wall

Sackville Sports Stadium

Bedford-Sackville Shallow tots pool | Small slide | Mushroom shower | Rope swing

Zatzman Sportsplex

Dartmouth-Cole Harbour Shallow tots pool | Waterslide | Splash pad | Rope swing

Zatzman Sportsplex

Captain Willia Spry Community Cem ntre

Sand, Sea, and Sustainability

Martinique Beach

Here’s What You Can Do to Keep Our Beaches Beautiful Keeping Halifax’s beaches clean and protected is incredibly important, and there are lots of simple ways we can all do our part. 1. AVOID THE SAND DUNES These tall hills of sand help protect the beach. It’s important not to climb or walk on them, because our footsteps can damage the delicate plants that hold the sand in place.

Rainbow Have

n Beach

2. DON’T COLLECT SEASHELLS Collecting seashells can be fun, but it’s important to leave them where they are. Animals like hermit crabs use seashells as homes, so leaving shells behind helps give them a cozy place to live. Instead of taking a shell home, take a photo so you can always remember it. 3. GIVE WILDLIFE SPACE Keep a safe distance from wildlife. Avoid chasing birds or disturbing nesting areas. Ask your grown-up to pick up any trash you see, such as plastic bags, because it can be harmful to animals. When visiting the beach, be an eco-warrior by keeping it clean and protecting the dunes, seashells, and wildlife that call our beaches home.

Clam Harbour Beach

Keep Beaches l Beautifu

The Best

Saltwater Beaches for Families

Clam Harbour Beach

Beach

Legend Accessible Features Free Dogs allowed on a leash Hiking Trails

Clam Harbour Beach

Eastern Shore

Great for: Building sandcastles.

Clam Harbour Beach is famous for its annual sandcastle competition held in August.

Martinique Beach

Eastern Shore

Drive from Downtown Halifax: 55 min Features: Long sandy beach | Change rooms | Picnic area | Vault toilets Great for: Swimming, surfing, beachcombing, bird watching. Scotia’s With 5 km of white sand, Martinique Beach is Nova longest sandy beach!

Why should you take salsa to the beach? So you can take a dip in the sea.

Crystal Crescent Beach

Hubbards Beach

Peggy’s Cove Coastal Region

Drive from Downtown Halifax: 35-40 min Features: Three white sand beaches | Walking trails | Vault toilets Great for: Bird watching and family hikes.

Queensland Beach

Rainbow Haven Beach

Peggy’s Cove Coastal Region

Dartmouth-Cole Harbour

Drive from Downtown Halifax: 30 min Features: Sandy beach | Supervised swimming (Jul-Aug) | Picnic area | Change rooms | Flush toilets Great for: Families and flying kites.

Kid-Approved

Indoor Activities & Attractions

Africville Museum

Art Gallery of Nova Scotia

Rain or shine, these indoor activities and attractions are always ready for fun. Africville Museum

North End Halifax Visit the land where the people of Africville lived, worked, and raised their families for over a century before being forced to move in the 1960s to make way for industrial development. In 2012, the Seaview United Baptist Church was rebuilt and opened as the Africville Museum. The museum invites locals and visitors to learn about Africville’s history and celebrate the community’s contributions to Canadian and African diasporic heritage. FREE ADMISSION FOR KIDS 5 AND UNDER

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Art Gallery of Nova Scotia

Downtown Halifax As Atlantic Canada’s largest art museum, the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia has a permanent collection of more than 19,000 pieces. Kids will enjoy seeing the famous painted house of Nova Scotian folk artist Maud Lewis, as well as the whimsical clay artworks in the Folk/Funk exhibition. FREE ADMISSION FOR KIDS 5 AND UNDER . FREE ADMISSION EVERY THURSDAY FROM 5 PM TO 9 PM, SPONSORED BY BMO .FINANCIAL GROUP.

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ada Aviatio

Atlantic Can

Black Cultural Centre for

Nova Scotia

Atlantic Canada Aviation Museum*

Airport Area Located near the airport, this museum preserves Canada’s rich civilian and military aviation history. Kids will love exploring the large collection of aircraft, engines, and weapons, as well as the flight simulators and discovering hundreds of aviation artifacts. *Limited winter hours. See website for details. ADMISSION BY DONATION

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Black Cultural Centre for Nova Scotia

Dartmouth-Cole Harbour The Black Cultural Centre for Nova Scotia is a museum and library resource centre that preserves and celebrates the history and culture of African Nova Scotians. The centre offers engaging exhibits and multimedia presentations, all in a family-friendly atmosphere. FREE ADMISSION FOR KIDS 5 AND UNDER

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Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21

Downtown Halifax Between 1928 and 1971, nearly one million immigrants arrived in Canada through Pier 21. This national museum offers an engaging experience for visitors of all ages. Kids will enjoy stepping into a replica ship’s cabin, dressing up in period costumes, and exploring the luggage children would have carried when immigrating to Canada. FREE ADMISSION FOR KIDS 5 AND UNDER

Canadian Museum of

Immigration at Pier 21

Legend Free Accessible Features Documentation in French Services in French upon request

Discovery Centre

Halifax Central Library

Downtown Halifax With four floors of hands-on learning experiences, the Discovery Centre brings science, technology, engineering, arts, and math to life for kids of all ages. Young children will enjoy the RBC Someday Street immersive play area, while older kids can explore the Innovation Lab on the lower level. Don’t miss the live star shows in the immersive Dome Theatre! FREE ADMISSION FOR KIDS 2 AND UNDER

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Halifax Central Library

Downtown Halifax The Halifax Central Library has lots of kid-friendly spaces. In addition to its large collection of children’s books, there are LEGO® tables, puppet theatres, board games, dollhouses, and many other fun activities to keep kids entertained for hours.

Maritime Museum of the Atlantic

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Maritime Museum of the Atlantic

Downtown Halifax Visit Canada’s oldest and largest maritime museum to explore Nova Scotia’s rich seafaring history. Kids can learn about pirates, shipwrecks, small boats, and naval adventures. FREE ADMISSION FOR KIDS 5 AND UNDER

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Museum of Natural History

Downtown Halifax This kid-friendly museum has galleries on archeology, geology, mammals, aquatic life, and more. It even features an exhibit with live specimens native to Nova Scotia. Don’t forget to say hi to Gus, the Museum of Natural History’s 103-year-old Gopher Tortoise!

al History Museum of Natur

FREE ADMISSION FOR KIDS 5 AND UNDER

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Musquodoboit Harbour Railway Museum

Eastern Shore Learn about Nova Scotia’s railway history at the Musquodoboit Harbour Railway Museum. Explore vintage posters, tickets, maps, and photographs in this restored Canadian Northern Railway station, built in 1918. In the summer, a food truck, beer garden, and ice cream stand are available near a peaceful picnic grove.

Musquodoboit Harbour Railway Museum

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Neptune Theatre

Downtown Halifax Enjoy live theatre performances all year at Neptune Theatre. Each season, they offer a variety of kid-friendly shows, including annual favourites like A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens. They host Pay-What-You-Can Performances on the first Tuesday of each show, sponsored by Bell Aliant.

Neptune Theatre

Things to Do

Awesome Indoor

Playgrounds & Play Places

Get Air Trampo

line Park

Climb, slide, and explore the coolest indoor playgrounds. Activate Halifax Dartmouth-Cole Harbour

Jil’s World of Fun

Peggy’s Cove Coastal Region

Minimum age to participate is 6 years old. Kids under 13

For kids up to 12 years old

must be accompanied by an adult

Foam pit | Slides | Toddler section

Beyond! Indoor Play Musquodoboit Valley

For kids up to 12 years old

Slides | Tunnels | Soft play area for babies & toddlers •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

East Peak Climbing

West End Halifax

Kids under 14 require direct supervision

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The Kids Fun Factory Dartmouth-Cole Harbour For kids up to 13 years old

Playdium

Dartmouth-Cole Harbour All ages

Arcade | Virtual reality | Bowling | Eating area

Bouldering & roped climbing | Training areas | Climbing gear rentals | Group lessons & private coaching | Café and lounge area

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All ages

Dartmouth-Cole Harbour

Glow-in-the-dark mini golf | Themed course | 18 holes of fun | Interactive obstacles | Arcade games

All ages | Kids under 10 must be accompanied by an adult

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Downtown Halifax | Bedford-Sackville | DartmouthCole Harbour

Get Air Trampoline Park

Putting Edge

Bedford-Sackville

Seven Bays Bouldering

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Kids 6-14 years old require direct supervision, and a parent or legal guardian must sign a waiver for participants under 18

Bedford-Sackville

Climbing challenges for all skill levels | Training area | Chalk bags & climbing gear available | Café

Hop! Skip! Jump! Indoor Play Space

For kids up to 12 years old

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Wonder World Bedford-Sackville

For kids up to 17 years old, children must be supervised by an adult

Play space with ball pit, slides and climbing structures | Book store | Café Playdium

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What type of dance will a spaghetti host? A meatball.

The Trainyard

Strange Adventures Comics & Curiosities Mastermind Toys

Kid-Approved

shopping Agricola Street Books

North End Halifax An independent bookstore nestled on Halifax’s Agricola Street, boasting a diverse collection of books for all tastes. ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Beaty Marine Centre Gift Shop

Downtown Halifax The official gift shop of the Beaty Centre for Marine Biodiversity, offering a collection of ocean-inspired toys, games, and more. ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Brain Candy Toys

Bedford-Sackville A playful haven for toy enthusiasts, offering a wide range of brain-stimulating and entertaining toys. ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Cape and Cowl Comics and Collectibles

Bedford-Sackville A treasure trove for comic book and collectible lovers, with an impressive selection of merchandise. ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

The Deck Box

Downtown Halifax A go-to spot for magic and Pokémon cards, as well as for new and pre-owned video games and gaming systems. ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Discovery Shop

(Discovery Centre) Downtown Halifax The official store of the Discovery Centre, offering educational and science-themed products and souvenirs.

Monster Comic Lounge

North End Halifax A cozy space for comic book lovers, featuring a diverse collection of comics and a comfortable lounge area. ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Nurtured Products for Parenting

North End Halifax A thoughtfully curated parenting store offering eco-friendly and nurturing products for families. ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Strange Adventures Comics & Curiosities

Downtown Halifax | Dartmouth-Cole Harbour A legendary comic book shop known for its diverse selection of comics and quirky curiosities. ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

The Trainyard

Dartmouth–Cole Harbour A community-driven shop offering locally made goods, with a dedicated colouring area where little ones can get creative while grown-ups browse. ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Twiggz

Dartmouth-Cole Harbour A stylish children’s boutique specializing in high-quality, comfortable apparel and footwear. ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Woozles Children’s Bookstore

West End Halifax Canada’s oldest children’s bookstore, adored for its carefully curated collection of books for young readers.

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Fluffy Bottom Babies

Bedford-Sackville A boutique offering high-quality, practical clothing and footwear for children aged 0–12, alongside toys, gifts, and must-have items. ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Mastermind Toys

Bedford-Sackville | Dartmouth-Cole Harbour A beloved toy store chain known for its extensive selection of high-quality toys for kids of all ages. ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Woozles Children

’s Bookstore

SPOT THE 10 DIFFERENCES!

3 .. 2 .. 1

TO IMAGINATION AND BEYOND!

Become a

Set your navigation to Discovery Centre and explore our four jam-packed floors and our featured astronaut attraction.

SPACE EXPLORER!

Little Explorer WORD SEARCH L GH E L M E T S I Y A T O L X NG S A L L Z I J K S RQ S V A S T RON A U T P X U VWA R V S E L Y J NDO A I P R A Y C H C T V T A O N A AM T HO Y C I E A R T H C G S E D T L SM I S S I ON Astronaut

Gravity

Mission

Launch

Earth

Asteroid

ADVENTURE AWAITS Planet Galaxy

Discovery Centre is your destination Space for hands-on and minds-on fun.

Helmet

www.thediscoverycentre.ca | 1215 Lower Water St. | Halifax, NS

1. Astronaut 2. Planet 3. Galaxy 4. Asteroid 5. Space 6. Gravity 7. Launch 8. Earth 9. Helmet 10. Mission

Meet Jawslyn, the mascot for the Halifax Tides FC. She is fierce, brave, and strong both on and off the pitch. Can you help Jawslyn play like a girl and dribble the ball all the way to the net?

Halifax Tides FC is Halifax’s first professional women’s soccer club. We can’t wait to hear you cheering on the Tides at the Wanderers Grounds, April – November.

tidesfc.ca | Halifax, NS

Sensory-Accessible

Halifax

Halifax has lots of places and experiences designed to feel more comfortable for visitors who may need a quieter, calmer, or more flexible environment. From relaxed museum visits and library tool kits to quieter skating hours and welcoming performances, these sensoryaccessible options help everyone enjoy the city in a way that works best for them.

Sensory-Friendly Sundays at the Museum of Natural History Thanks to Autism Nova Scotia, Sundays at the Museum of Natural History are designed to be sensory-friendly, with reduced lighting and sound, sensory maps, and social narratives for a more inclusive experience. •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 This museum shares the stories of nearly one million newcomers who arrived at Pier 21 and offers sensory supports for visitors. Guests can use a social narrative and sensory backpacks filled with ear defenders, fidget toys, sunglasses, and communication cards. Learn more at pier21.ca/visit/accessibility.

Enjoy a “Sensory Skate” at the Emera Oval on Mondays from 4 pm to 5 pm. This quieter, relaxed hour features no music or announcements, reduced noise, limited occupancy in the rental hut, and slower-paced skating with calm voices. Free adaptive equipment is available. Check the Emera Oval website before visiting, as skate times may change due to weather. ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Sensory-Accessible Concerts by Cecilia Concerts

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These classical music concerts are designed to be welcoming and accessible for neurodiverse visitors of all ages and their families. Selected concerts are free to the public on Sunday afternoons at Halifax Central Library’s Paul O’Regan Hall. Learn more at ceciliaconcerts.ca.

Steele Wheels Motor Museum

Every Sunday from 10 am to 12 pm, this classic and exotic car museum offers warmer lighting, stationary images, and clearly defined spaces for a more comfortable visit. •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Halifax Public Libraries Autism Tool Kits All Halifax Public Libraries branches offer sensoryfriendly Autism Tool Kits, created in partnership with Autism Nova Scotia to make visits more accessible.

Tranquil Skating at the Emera Oval

Relaxed Performances at Neptune Theatre Neptune Theatre offers relaxed performances for audience members who would enjoy a calmer environment, including those with sensory sensitivities, learning differences, autism, or first-time theatre-goers. Learn more at neptunetheatre.com/visit/accessibility.

Some experiences in this article are seasonal. Check the official websites for the latest information before planning your visit.

Discovery Centre Emera Oval

Access 2 Card Program

Mic Mac Mall Sensory-friendly shopping is offered from 6 pm to 9 pm on the last Monday of each month at select retailers. Some areas have reduced lighting and no music, and participating stores switch their phones to silent mode, reduce scents, offer priority checkout, and provide visual supports for a more comfortable experience. Participating retailers include Aeropostale, Bluenotes, Build-A-Bear, Claire’s, East Coast Lifestyle, Eddie Bauer, Just Cozy, Lush, Mind Games, Northern Reflections, Showcase, Talbot’s, and Urban Planet. •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

igration at Pier 21

anadian Museum of Imm C

Neptune Theatre

The Easter Seals Canada Access 2 Card program gives free admission to a support companion for visitors with permanent disabilities at hundreds of participating entertainment, cultural and recreational venues across Canada. Access 2 participants in Halifax include: • Art Gallery of Nova Scotia • Canada Games Centre • Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 • Discovery Centre • Halifax Jazz Festival • HRM Recreation and Pools • Maritime Museum of the Atlantic • Museum of Natural History • Neptune Theatre • Steele Wheels Motor Museum Learn more at access2card.ca/ participating-venues

Accessible Adventures for

Kids in Halifax

Martinique Beac

Halifax is full of accessible, inclusive, and sensory-friendly activities for kids. Whether you are exploring the great outdoors or enjoying a lively but relaxed concert, this page helps you discover the amazing family-friendly adventures waiting in the city.

OUTDOOR RECREATION Jumpstart Playground at George Dixon Community Centre North End Halifax

This playground is a great spot for wheelchair users, with inclusive features like a roll-on merrygo-round and ramps for easy access. The turf surface lets kids using walkers or wheelchairs join in the fun. Parking is available on Brunswick Street, though there is a slight incline.

Accessible Dock at Shubie Park Dartmouth-Cole Harbour

The ADA-compliant EZ Launch system at Shubie Park allows users to pull a canoe or kayak directly onto the dock, enter the boat, and launch safely into the canal. The dock and connecting trails are fully accessible for wheelchairs, making it easy to explore this historic park.

Boardwalk Adventures Dartmouth-Cole Harbour

Halifax Common Aquatics Facility Downtown Halifax

Enjoy Halifax’s outdoor pool, certified by the Rick Hansen Foundation for accessibility. With a pool lift and aquatic wheelchair available, everyone can have fun in the water.

Emera Oval and Halifax Common Downtown Halifax

Try winter adaptive equipment like a Hippocampe sledge at the Emera Oval and explore the lively Halifax Common. Afterwards, enjoy a slice from Suzanne’s Pizzeria and Good Robot in their cozy indoor space or relax on their accessible beer garden patio in warmer months.

Beaches with Mobi-Mats

Eastern Shore, Dartmouth-Cole Harbour, West End Halifax

Mobi-Mats let walkers and wheelchairs roll right onto the soft sand at Clam Harbour Beach, go from boardwalk to beach at Rainbow Haven, and enjoy the sparkling lakeside fun at Chocolate Lake.

Enjoy the accessible boardwalks at MacCormacks Beach and Fisherman’s Cove. Take in the coastal views, explore charming shops, and enjoy a welcoming atmosphere for everyone.

HRM ADAPTIVE EQUIPMENT RENTALS Families can rent adaptive equipment, like the Hippocampe sled or beach wheels, to explore Halifax’s beaches and trails. Pickups are available at local recreation centres, making your adventure easy and accessible. For the latest details on adaptive equipment rentals, contact the facilities directly or reach out to Halifax Regional Municipality’s Inclusion and Access Specialist at Inclusion@halifax.ca. Halifax Common Aquatics Facility

Colour Fenton: Bring the Museum’s mascot, Fenton, to life with your favourite colours! Colorez Fenton : Donnez vie à Fenton, la mascotte du Musée, avec vos couleurs préférées! Don’t miss Fenton’s favourite hands-on activities and events, including March Break and Canada Day. Plan your visit today!

Ne manquez pas les activités pratiques et événements préférés de Fenton, notamment le congé de mars et la fête du Canada. Planifiez votre visite dès aujourd’hui!

1-855-526-4721 | pier21.ca | quai21.ca

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Alexander Keith’s Brewery Art Gallery of Nova Scotia Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 Casino Nova Scotia Centennial Pool Dalhousie University and University of King’s College 7 Discovery Centre 8 Drunken Lampposts 9 Emera Oval 10 Georges Island National Historic Site 11 Grand Parade 12 Granville Mall 13 Halifax Brewery Farmers’ Market 14 Halifax Central Library 15 Halifax Citadel National Historic Site & Army Museum 16 Halifax Common 17 Halifax Common Aquatics Facility 18 Halifax Common Playground 19 Halifax Convention Centre

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20 Halifax Ferry Terminal 21 Halifax Public Gardens 22 Halifax Seaport Farmers’ Market 23 Halifax Skatepark 24 Harbour Hopper Tour 25 Light House Arts Centre 26 Maritime Museum of the Atlantic 27 Museum of Natural History 28 Neptune Theatre 29 Nova Scotia College of Art and Design (NSCAD) 30 Old Town Clock 31 Peace and Friendship Park & Playground 32 Pizza Corner 33 Point Pleasant Park 34 Saint Mary’s University 35 Scotiabank Centre 36 Submarine Playground 37 Wanderers Grounds 38 Waterfront Hammocks 39 The Wave

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