Discover Nova Scotia: Top Attractions and Places to Visit
Nova Scotia, a picturesque Canadian province, is a charming blend of coastal beauty and historical significance. With its varied landscapes, from the foggy Atlantic shores to the Bay of Fundy's salt marshes and Cape Breton's highlands, it offers a diverse array of sights.
The climate is mild yet damp, with pleasant summers and snowy winters. Halifax, the capital, is rich in history, with French settlers like Samuel de Champlain establishing Port-Royal in 1604.
Explore the best of Nova Scotia with our guide to its top attractions.
1. Cabot Trail
The Cabot Trail is a 300-kilometer scenic drive around Cape Breton Island, offering stunning views of mountains, cliffs, and the Gulf of St. Lawrence. It's a haven for hikers and a popular motorcycle tour route, starting and ending in Baddeck, the home of Alexander Graham Bell.
Location: Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia
2. Peggy's Cove
Peggy's Cove, a quaint fishing village near Halifax, is known for the iconic Peggy's Point Lighthouse. The area is rich in art galleries and historical sites, including the SS Atlantic Heritage Park. It's a popular day trip, so expect crowds.
Accommodation: Where to Stay near Peggy's Cove
3. Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site
This living history museum recreates 18th-century fort life with costumed interpreters and historical buildings. Visitors can experience military reenactments and taste period food.
Address: 259 Park Service Road, Louisbourg, Nova Scotia
Official site: www.pc.gc.ca/en/lhn-nhs/ns/louisbourg
4. Cape Breton Highlands National Park
Home to Nova Scotia's highest peaks, this park offers diverse landscapes and wildlife. The Skyline Trail provides breathtaking views, and the nearby town of Chéticamp offers cultural experiences.
Official site: www.pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/ns/cbreton/
5. Halifax Citadel National Historic Site
The Halifax Citadel, a star-shaped fortress, offers a glimpse into military history with guided tours and reenactments. It overlooks the city and features the iconic Old Town Clock.
Official site: www.pc.gc.ca/en/lhn-nhs/ns/halifax
6. Maritime Museum of the Atlantic
This museum showcases the maritime history of Nova Scotia, including the Halifax Explosion and the Titanic disaster. Visitors can explore ship models and historical vessels.
Official site: https://maritimemuseum.novascotia.ca
7. Kejimkujik National Park
This park is a sanctuary of natural beauty and Mi'kmaw heritage, offering hiking, canoeing, and camping experiences.
Official site: www.pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/ns/kejimkujik
8. Halifax Harbour
The bustling boardwalk along Halifax Harbour features museums, dining, and shopping, with opportunities for harbor cruises and whale-watching.
9. Lunenburg
Lunenburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is known for its colorful architecture and maritime heritage, including the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic.
Accommodation: Where to Stay in Lunenburg
10. Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21
This museum tells the story of Canada's immigration history, with interactive exhibits and a genealogical research center.
Official site: https://pier21.ca/
11. Annapolis Royal Historic Gardens
These gardens showcase 10 acres of historical and horticultural designs, including a Rose Garden and Governor's Garden.
Official site: www.historicgardens.com
12. Halifax Public Gardens
The oldest Victorian gardens in North America, these gardens offer a serene escape with seasonal blooms and historical significance.
Official site: www.halifaxpublicgardens.ca
13. Shubenacadie Provincial Wildlife Park
This wildlife park features a variety of native and exotic animals, including the unique Sable Island horses.
Official site: https://wildlifepark.novascotia.ca/
14. Grand Pre National Historic Site
A memorial to the Acadian people, this site features beautiful gardens and a statue of Evangéline from Longfellow's poem.
Official site: https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/lhn-nhs/ns/grandpre
15. Port-Royal National Historic Site
Port-Royal is a reconstruction of one of North America's first permanent settlements, offering insights into early colonial life.
Official site: www.pc.gc.ca/en/lhn-nhs/ns/portroyal
16. Hall's Harbour
Hall's Harbour is a picturesque spot on the Bay of Fundy, known for its high tides and fresh seafood.
17. Ross Farm Museum
This living museum showcases a 19th-century farm with animals, nature trails, and historical buildings.
Official site: http://rossfarm.novascotia.ca/
