1.
Explore Downtown Halifax and Dartmouth
Some of the best things to do in Nova Scotia are right in the center of its capital city, Halifax – an attractive, busy city set on a large working harbor, with two beautiful suspension bridges leading to the opposite city of Dartmouth.
Halifax is especially lovely in the summer to head out on an excursions on the Tall Ship Silva, which can be booked in advance or from a kiosk on the boardwalk.
There are other ways to see Halifax too. The Halifax hop-on-hop-off double deck bus tours are highly recommended. Or join the hilarious Harbour Hopper Tour – an amphibious vehicle that drives around the city and into the water!
2.
Go Mud River Rafting on the World’s Highest Tides
Get your adrenaline pumping with one of the most exhilarating Nova Scotia attractions: white water rafting on the Bay of Fundy’s tidal bore…except in Nova Scotia, the rapids aren’t white – they are a rich gravy-red.
Check out this link to find a company to book with: Tidal Bore Rafting Companies and you will ride the rapids of the tidal bore (basically, a big tidal wave) like a roller coaster.
You can’t fail to have an incredible experience river rafting on the Bay of Fundy, which has the highest tides in the world. Just don’t wear your Sunday best – you are going to get muddy! Some of the rapids reach 10 feet high!
3.
Visit the Town of Lunenburg and Mahone Bay
With brightly colored buildings and a rich shipbuilding history, the waterfront town of Lunenburg – a UNESCO World Heritage site – is a must-see on your trip to Nova Scotia.
There are plenty of amazing restaurants in Lunenburg including the Grand Banker Bar and Grill, and the Salt Shaker Deli. After lunch. Lunenburg is also home to the Bluenose – the schooner depicted on the Canadian dime. If you are lucky, she may be in port!
Mahone Bay is a tranquil town with spectacular views of our scenic harbour, where sailboats gently bob and the sun sparkles like diamonds on the deep blue waters.
As you walk through town, you’ll see vibrantly painted Victorian homes and shops, colourful heritage gardens, and our world-famous three churches, which sit at the water’s edge and form the iconic backdrop for one of Canada’s most picturesque towns.
You can shop a variety items of locally made products — hooked rugs, pewter, quilts, and pottery. The vibrant artistic community creates both contemporary and traditional pieces in diverse mediums — from ceramics, sculpture and painting, to jewellery and textiles, and much more.
4.
Climb the Boulders at Peggy’s Cove
Climbing over the sparking granite boulders at Peggy’s Cove is one of top things to do in Nova Scotia. Peggy’s Cove is also one of the most photographed spots in Canada, and rightly so – it’s stunning.
But Peggy’s Cove is more than just a lighthouse. You can book a guided hike or kayak tour nearby with Kattuk Adventures or East Coast Outfitters, or hike the nearby trails using your own map.
For dinner, order a delicious lobster roll at a roadside kiosk, try the famous steamed gingerbread in the Sou’wester restaurant, or buy some live lobster at market price, to take back home!
Local tip: Not many people know that you can stay overnight at Peggy’s Cove!
For luxury, stay at the Oceanstone Seaside Resort. Next door, Rhubarb Restaurant has dinner, deck parties, and weekend music session. Or steps away from the rocks, Lighthouse Lane Cottages have an amazing sea view.
5.
Hop a bus for a Wine or Cider tour in the Valley
Head down to the Annapolis Valley for some shopping and a few afternoon beverages. Make it a memorable day in the sun on a patio at one of the wonderful wineries or craft breweries. There are so many wonderful beverages to taste your day away!
Check out Local Wine or Local Breweries for all the locations in the valley.