Things to do & places to visit in Nova Scotia, Canada

From Yarmouth to Sydney, Nova Scotia is full of scenic landscapes, rich history, and interesting local culture. Sights and fun experiences abound in Nova Scotia, and there is a little bit of something for everyone. Soak up the beauty and serenity to be found in the Annapolis Royal Historic Gardens, or head to Cape Breton Highlands National Park for the stunning landscape and wildlife. Explore the history of the area at Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site, or hike the Skyline Trail.

Nova Scotia #5 destination in Canada 2023. The average rating score is 4.51 based on 60.1k traveler reviews, of 450 attractions. Timezone: America/Halifax, current date and time: Friday, May 03, 2024, 23:27.

Top things to do (38)

Top destinations in Nova Scotia 100

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Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Cape Breton Highlands National Park (1.556 reviews)
- Amazing scenery
Friday: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM National Parks

Treasures abound throughout the headlands and rugged cliffs of Cape Breton Highlands with its abundant wildlife, spectacular scenery and human history dating back to the last Ice Age. See more..
5.0 Halifax Central Library (1.117 reviews)
- Relaxing view
Libraries

Arriving in Halifax for the day we decided to check out the view from the cafe on the 5th floor. The library itself is located beside Dalhousie campus and is a bright, clean shiny building. The cafe offers views of both the harbour and the campus and is really light & airy. They also have a good selection of drinks, snacks & a few vegan snacks. A peaceful spot to see the city. See more..
5.0 Shubenacadie River Runners (392 reviews)
- Great value for Money
River Rafting & Tubing

A great value for your time and money. Hours of action packed river fun! My 13 year old son and 16 year old daughter actually agreed on something; That this river trip was the highlight of their vacation. Our guide was extremely knowledgeable, educating us about how the river bore tides work, the wildlife along the river all the while keeping us laughing, thanks Issac! See more..
5.0 deCoste Centre for Arts & Creativity (374 reviews)
- On my feet dancing!!!
Friday: Spent 2-3 hours Theaters

The deCoste Performing Arts Centre is the premiere facility in Northeastern Nova Scotia annually hosting over 100 performances and corporate and community events. A 420 seat venue, with flexible seating and a state-of-the-art sound and lighting system. Visit our website to see our year-round offerings. Located on Pictou's beautifully developed waterfront. Just minutes (walking distance) from numerous fine restaurants and two great museums; the Hector Heritage Quay and the Northumberland Fisheries Museum. Banks, shops and services nearby. Ample parking. Public internet access. See more..
5.0 NovaShores Adventures (373 reviews)
- Great day activity
Friday: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM Nature & Wildlife Tours • Kayaking & Canoeing

We did the 6 hour day tour and had a great experience! Definitely helps to have a couple kayaking experiences under your belt if thé whether is acting up. The instructor David was a great guide, easygoing and personable. I would definitely do it again! See more..
5.0 Annapolis Royal Candlelight Graveyard Tour (325 reviews)
- Well worth the price
Sightseeing Tours

Alan, the tour leader, is the very knowledgeable and enthusiastic past president of the local historic society. The ridiculously small fee for this 90+ minute tour (C$10= US$7.5) is donated to the society and he frequently points out items on the walk that monies have paid for. Alan is bright, passionate and speaks like an actor. All 16 of the folks who showed up that night- it is THE thing to do in this charming town at night- seemed to have a great time schlepping with candle lanterns in a cemetery in the dark. See more..
4.5 Halifax Public Gardens (4.081 reviews)
- Miniature Butchart Gardens☺
Friday: 8:00 AM - 7:30 PM Spent 1-2 hours Gardens

Welcome to Halifax’s greatest natural and national treasure and most visited site in Halifax, Nova Scotia– a timeless oasis in an ever changing world. A beautiful Victorian-inspired garden open to the public since 1867. 16 acres in the Victorian Gardenesque style; Scroll beds shaped in an E for the reigning monarch, Serpentine beds, raised carpet beds and a profusion of colour through the artistry of our Gardeners. The Victorian Gardens were all about symmetry and there is grand harmony throughout. The majestic trees, 240 varieties, nurture and shelter and many are original. The Victorians were all about education and introduced many new species to Nova Scotia. Check our What's Blooming on our website to discover the highlights of each month. Horticultural Hall, circa 1837, the original meeting place of the Nova Scotia Horticultural Society houses a coffee shop Due to COVID-19, events are limited, our Information Desk and daily tours are not operating. Please Social Distance. See more..
4.5 Halifax Citadel National Historic Site (3.804 reviews)
- Authentic and evocative
Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Military Museums • Historic Sites • History Museums

Experience an exciting part of Canada's history by visiting this 19th-century fort with a sweeping view of downtown Halifax. Between May and October, the Citadel is brought to life by two historic regiments of the British Army - the pageantry of the 78th Highlanders and the precision of the Royal Artillery thrill visitors daily with live re-enactments. The skirl of the bagpipes mixes with the crack of a rifle and the assembly of recruits for the next foot drill. There's no shortage of authentic experiences to view and participate in! Kids will love the Xplorers Program - an activity book just for them. When the sun sets, it's time to experience the other side of the Citadel - join the Citadel Ghost Walk and experience the dark and errie lore from the early 1800's. Tours start mid-July and run every Friday and Saturday nights starting at 8:30pm until the end of October. Cash at the front gate. Between Nov. to April, all exhibits and rooms are closed but noon gun fires daily. See more..
4.5 Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk (3.348 reviews)
- A very enjoyable 2 hours
Spent 1-2 hours Piers & Boardwalks

Still a busy spot on a weekday. 4 km from The Casino to the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 and I did it twice because it was so vibrant and interactive. There were many boutique stores, food and beverage emporiums, wonderful waterfront patios, exhibits, museums and overhead displays. There were tributes to Samuel Cunard and the Immigrants who made their way through Halifax. I enjoyed the chalk markings on the ground encouraging children to participate in hop/scotch, chalk maze, alphabet hop, 4 square, straightaway and a few others. I saw the Tall Ship Silva and boarded The Last Corvette Warship and did much more. It was a very enjoyable 2 hours See more..
4.5 Maritime Museum of the Atlantic (3.227 reviews)
- Nice Maritime Museum
Friday: 9:30 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Military Museums • Speciality Museums • History Museums

Immerse yourself in the rich marine history depicted by this museum's vast collection from binnacles and buoys to anchors and armaments. See more..
4.5 Peggy's Cove Lighthouse (3.070 reviews)
- Touristy but pretty
Lighthouses

Hopefully you can visit on a day without tour busses! Even so, you will have a lot of company. During COVID the site was renovated with large crowds in mind - observation platform, etc. Attractive and well done. The light is small, but beautifully situated on a massive granite outcropping. To my mind, the little fishing cove adjacent is more picturesque and charming. I feel the spot is overrated - many less crowded and more beautiful places in Nova Scotia. But well worth a visit. The drive down from the highway is really nice. See more..
4.5 Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site (2.178 reviews)
- Amazing Place to Visit
Friday: 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM Speciality Museums • Historic Sites

Welcome to the Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site, a magical place on the edge of a continent where past and present come together to celebrate Canada’s diverse heritage. Please note that we have three seasons throughout the year: Low season Opportunities to experience the Fortress of Louisbourg's quiet streets during the low season allow visitors to imagine life in the toughest of conditions almost 300 years ago. While there are no services available, a low season visit may provide the best opportunity for visitors to experience the stillness of the streets, take in the beauty of the exterior architecture of the buildings, or simply enjoy the treasures that life's quietest moments may bring. For a new way to experience the site in the low season, try our Explora app. Through sound, video, photos, quizzes and text, you will hold stories about Louisbourg in your hands as you walk through both the reconstructed town and the fortress's ruins. Explora is available to download for free at the App Store and through Google Play. Shoulder season For those seeking quiet opportunities and some on-site services, visiting during the shoulder season is recommended. Visitors have the opportunity to enjoy an inspiring setting with beautiful visuals as they stand on our history-laden grounds. Several buildings with exhibits are open for you to discover. Explore the site on your own or embark on an Explora tour of the grounds. To enhance your visit you may purchase a guided tour or participate in the Time Travel program. Accessible guided tours are available as well. We recommend reserving a place on these tours in advance. By the end of June, the site will begin to fill with costumed interpreters as we ramp up for peak season. After Labour Day, the Fortress of Louisbourg winds down once again with costumed animators interpreting some buildings into September. No matter the season, be sure to find out from reception what activities and experiences may be o... See more..
4.5 Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site (2.140 reviews)
- Excellent Learning Experience
Historic Sites • History Museums

This museum chronicles the life and career of Alexander Graham Bell with its rich collection of artifacts and documents accumulated by Dr. Bell and his family during their time in Nova Scotia. See more..
4.5 Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 (1.945 reviews)
- Very moving!
Friday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks • History Museums

The Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 is located in the national historic site at the Halifax seaport where nearly one million immigrants landed in Canada from 1928 to 1971. Today, as Canada’s sixth national museum, we share the ongoing story of immigration to Canada—past to present, and coast to coast. Our exhibits immerse visitors in the immigration experience and allow for a deeper understanding of how newcomers shape our country. Our staff and collections provide opportunities for visitors to discover the countless journeys to Canada and find their own family’s connection to the story. Countless Journeys. One Canada. See more..
4.5 Cabot Trail (1.803 reviews)
- You Must Go!!
Spent More than 3 hours Hiking Trails • Scenic Drives

One of the most magnificent loop drives in North America treats visitors to the spectacular scenery of the Cape Breton Highlands. See more..
4.5 Halifax Harbour Ferry (1.125 reviews)
- Cheap, efficient and cool!
Ferries

The Harbor Ferry is a no brainer if you have a couple of hours to spare. For less than $3 Canadian, you can ride across the bay to the compact neighborhood of Dartmouth; if you keep the transfer you receive when you enter, you can use it for the return within a couple of hours. Such an inexpensive way to see the city's skyline from the water and get access to another neighborhood. The ride is smooth and the ferry operates continuously in a very efficient, no fuss manner. Access the ferry terminal from the harbor waterfront boardwalk, just north of the Maritime Museum. See more..
4.5 Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic (934 reviews)
- Bigger than I thought
Friday: 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums

Come to the Lunenburg waterfront and experience the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic. Within the walls of a former fish processing plant the stories of our fishery come to life. The Marine Life Gallery explores what lies beneath the waves, other galleries tell the stories of the Mi’kmaq Fishery, Inshore Fishery, the Banks Fishery and resulting Spin-off Industries, while paying respects to the hardships of the Stormy Seas. Step on the deck of our flagship, Theresa E. Connor. Take in our daily presentations on Lobster Lore, The Bluenose Saga and the Model Schooner Launch, as well as other special features. See more..
4.5 Skyline Trail (864 reviews)
- 5 stars, no question! The VIEWS!
Hiking Trails

Our family of 4 (2 kids, 14 &12) love a good hike and are very active, but we were a bit worried the kids might be bored or find this “loop” too long. There were no regrets after we went! The hike in is like others explain, lots of trees and forested areas, but we were on high alert the whole time, hoping to spot a moose. No such luck, but lots of evidence of them being in the area with trees and bark eaten! The views toward the end, and especially at the look out on the boardwalk were breathtaking!!! An incredible mix of mountain, valley, waterfall in the distance, and ocean below! In my opinion, a must hike trail for all Canadians - a true East Coast beauty! See more..
4.5 Point Pleasant Park (844 reviews)
- 186-acre woodland park☺
Friday: 6:00 AM - 9:30 PM Parks

Have a picnic with sweeping ocean views or hike through 186 acres of forest in one of Halifax's most cherished parks. See more..
4.5 Fairview Lawn Cemetery (807 reviews)
- Very emotional and moving
Spent More than 3 hours Cemeteries

The final and noteworthy resting place for many of the victims of the Titanic. See more..
4.5 Luckett Vineyards (784 reviews)
- Tasting and lunch
Friday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Wineries & Vineyards

We are open for the 2022 season! Bistro is open 11-4 daily Tasting Bar Retail is open 10-5 daily - Tour 3pm daily, weather permitting No reservations See our website for seasonal dinner service information See more..
4.5 Annapolis Royal Historic Gardens (755 reviews)
- A beautiful retreat with into to Acadians
Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas • Gardens

ESCAPE from the hectic pace of everyday life with a visit to Annapolis Royal’s beautiful Historic Gardens!In a beautiful setting overlooking a tidal river valley, the 17 acre Historic Gardens is a premiere Nova Scotia attraction showcasing gardening methods, designs and materials representing more than four hundred years of local history. Highlights include a Rose collection of more than 270 cultivars, an Acadian House representing pre-deportation 1671 time period, and much more… See more..
4.5 Fort Anne National Historic Site (579 reviews)
- A great stop
Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Military Museums • Historic Sites • History Museums

Explore Canada's first National Historic Site presenting a 3,000 year old story that weaves together the lives of the Mi'kmaq, French, Scots, British and Acadian peoples. A meeting place for cultures and a focal pint for historic power struggles and treaty negotiations, Fort Anne played a key role in the forces and events that shaped this nation. Immerse yourself in the Officers' Quarters Museum and another era when Scottish, French and English settlers and soldiers took turns calling this place home. Learn how the Mi'kmaq, Acadians and African Nova Scotians played a role in shaping one of North America's most contested areas. Visitors are invited to explore the grounds and discover the star shaped earthwork fortification. Fort is an outstanding example of a Vauban fortification. See more..
4.5 Victoria Park (544 reviews)
- Stunning! So happy to have found this place!
Friday: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM Parks

So incredible. We visited it twice while visiting Nova Scotia for only a week! Highlights: 1) Many many kms of trails 2) Some trails are paved, some are dirt, some have lots of wooden stairs - people can choose the trails that suit their difficulty level. 3) gorgeous Joseph Howe falls 4) beautiful trees, cliff sides, rivers, tons of work put into gazebos, boardwalks, stairs, railings, washrooms 5) has a look out (look off) view point So much beauty and wonderful walks to be had in this place! Stunning! See more..
4.5 Cape Breton Miners' Museum (529 reviews)
- Nails in the Lunch Box
Speciality Museums • Mines

The Miners Museum was an awesome place to visit, and going down in the mine was an unforgettable experience. I went with my two boys, 13 and 16. The most memorable part for us was the guide, Terry! This man was an amazing blend of down to earth humor, while presenting a highly educated articulation of the facts . He was very informative, and made it fun for everyone. There were 21 of us on the tour, and he warmly engaged all of us. We were able to get a real sense of what it must have been like for the men and animals that worked down there. We highly recommend visiting the Miners Museum, and if you are lucky enough to get Terry for a guide, well Bonus! Ask him to tell you about John sneaking nails home in his lunch box. See more..
4.5 Cape Forchu Lighthouse (523 reviews)
- Good for the Soul
Friday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent 2-3 hours Historic Walking Areas • Lighthouses

Welcome to Cape Forchu, a Light Like No Other. This spectacular and unique "apple core" lighthouse is the second most photographed lighthouse in Nova Scotia and located just 10 minutes outside the Town of Yarmouth. The Cape has been welcoming visitors since 1604, when Samuel de Champlain landed and named the area "Cap Forchu," meaning "Forked tongue of land." See more..
4.5 Swissair Flight 111 Memorial (490 reviews)
- A Peaceful Place to Pay Respect
Spent < 1 hour Monuments & Statues

If you are visiting the lighthouse in Peggy’s Cove, this memorial is only a 2 minute drive away. It is clearly marked on the highway with road signs and has ample free parking. Quiet area to pay respect for those who lost their lives that day. It only takes 10 minutes. See more..
4.5 Bluenose II (472 reviews)
- Worth the time!
Ships

Nova Scotia's Sailing Ambassador, Bluenose II, is an exact replica of Bluenose -- the famed schooner and undefeated champion in the International Fisherman's Races. Bluenose II is available for deck tours, and harbour sails twice daily when in port. Please check our schedule for more information . See more..
4.5 Grand Pré National Historic Site (458 reviews)
- Great Experience Learning about the Acadians
Historic Sites

At Grand-Pre, get to know the Acadians, Nova Scotia's early French settlers. Theirs is a story of pioneer life, tragedy, and triumphant survival. This commemorative site was the heart of the 17th and 18th century Acadian village that became the scenic setting for Longfellow's narative poem Evangeline. A Visitor Reception and Interpretation Centre opened in September 2003 with new interpretation exhibits and a multimedia theater. Take time to walk in the superb flower gardens and admire the beautiful scenery. You will be charmed by the natural beauty of the surroundings. See more..
4.5 Port-Royal National Historic Site (427 reviews)
- Fantastic informative guide
Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Speciality Museums • Historic Sites

Explore one of the earliest French settlements in North America, the Habitation at Port-Royal. Canada's first major historical reconstruction, now a National Historic Site. Samuel de Champlain once called this place 'the most suitable and pleasant for a settlement that we had seen'. Learn how the French colonists kept up their spirits with the Order of Good Cheer and about their crucial relationships forged with the Mi'kmaw. See more..