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Halifax Titanic Historical Tours

Halifax's # 1 History Tour on TripAdvisor 2014,  2015,  2016,  2017 and Awarded 2018 and 2019 TripAdvisor Tour Hall of Fame 

MEMORABLE SIX HOUR NOVA SCOTIA TOURS

Halifax titanic history tour - our most popular tour., beautiful south shore - lunenburg, mahone bay and peggy's cove tour.

 Halifax Titanic Historical Tour is a Six-Hour Tour of Historic Halifax, Dartmouth & Fisherman's Cove in Eastern Passage. Fisherman’s Cove is a 200 Year Old  Quaint Authentic Working Fishing Village with very colourful Nova Scotia Cape Islander's hauling in Freshest Seafood on the Planet, Haddock, Lobster & Tuna in October. 

 Our Six Hour Tour of Nova Scotia's Beautiful South Shore including Lunenburg, Mahone Bay & Peggy's Cove. 

Amazing Annapolis Valley Wine/Nature Tour

Famous for its Beautiful Sites and Great tasting wine, the Annapolis Valley provides a day filled with Highs and Lows Tides..!!  Your Guided Tour begins at Cruise Ship Pavilion or Pick up any Downtown Hotel. 

World Famous Nova Scotia Small Group Tours

Historic halifax tours.

Come and Explore what the World has Discovered. TripAdvisor 2018 Destination on the Rise in the  World. Historic Halifax Steeped in World & Canadian History 

Halifax Hall of Fame Tour

 Thank You to all Our Guests over the Years that made this possible 2018 & 2019 TripAdvisor Hall of Fame : Certificate of Excellence, Recognizing 5 Consecutive Years of Consistently High Five Star/Bubble Reviews from World Travellers 

5 Bubble rating with 600+ TripAdvisor Reviews

Interested in a tour of halifax nova scotia.

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Halifax Titanic Historical Tours

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Half-Day Historical Tour of Halifax

Half-Day Small-Group Tour of Nova Scotia's South Shore

Half-Day Small-Group Tour of Annapolis Valley

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Halifax Titanic Historical Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Halifax's Newest Attraction!

Photo: Larry Daley

RMS Titanic

Our world class Titanic & Iceberg exhibit features actual items removed from the ship prior to the maiden voyage, Harland & Wolff artifacts, and science related material from the wreck site. We also have authentic movie props gifted by James Cameron, to friend Larry Daley, the exhibits owner.

Exhibit founder Larry Daley first landed a job doing logistics work for RMS Titanic Inc. who were diving to the wreck of the Titanic in the summer of 1998. Little did he know that he would end up diving the wreck himself and becoming good friends with James Cameron, director of the 1997 film "Titanic."  See actual props and items used during the filming of the movie as well as other amazing artifacts & collectibles.

Our Titanic exhibit is interactive and fun for the whole family. Dive into over 111 years of history and science as you tour the two levels of this facility.

Learn about the story of the RMS Titanic and her fateful end though interpretive displays, videos, and a simulator, while viewing science related items recovered from the wreck site. Whether you are a history buff or not, this exhibit is sure to entertain and amaze the whole family!

Maureen Gillett - Sydney, AU

A good example of what happens when people fail to question authority."

Halifax Titanic Historical Tours

• See all photos

Half-Day Historical Tour of Halifax

Half-Day Small-Group Tour of Nova Scotia's South Shore

Half-Day Small-Group Tour of Annapolis Valley

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Halifax Titanic Historical Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go - Visiting Tips (2024)

Halifax and the Titanic: A Maritime Experience (Post)

Visit the Maritime Museum of Atlantic Canada

Learn about Nova Scotia’s role in the wake of the Titanic disaster

Explore the picturesque sights and scenery of Peggy’s Cove

See the final resting place of 121 passengers from the Titanic

Planned Post-Program Itinerary:

Day 1: halifax sightseeing tour.

Your half-day trip around Halifax begins after disembarkation and takes you to some of the city’s most important sights. We’ll visit the Maritime Museum of Atlantic Canada to understand Nova Scotia’s role in the aftermath of the Titanic tragedy. Then we’ll visit pretty Peggy’s Cove, where you will find a lighthouse, quaint shops, galleries, and the deGarthe Monument. Your tour ends at Fairview Lawn Cemetery, the final resting place of some of the Titanic’s passengers. After the tour, you can enjoy the rest of the evening exploring Halifax at your leisure.

Day 2: Halifax

Your Post-Program ends after a delicious breakfast at your hotel.

Please note we may visit sites in a different order.

Practical information

One-night stay at a hotel in Halifax with American breakfast and baggage handling

3.5-hour guided ‘Peggy’s Cove and Titanic Tour’ ending at the hotel

English-speaking guide

Transfer from the pier in Halifax

Not included

Lunch, dinner, and gratuities

Remarks and requirements

This tour is available as a Post-Program in combination with expedition cruises ending in Halifax.

This program starts on the day of disembarkation.

Available to guests with limited mobility upon request.

If the minimum number of participants is not reached, we reserve the right to cancel the trip up to six weeks before departure.

Expedition cruises offering this activity

See some of the world's most wonderful nature on a cruise with Hurtigruten Expeditions

In the Wake of the Great Explorers | Eastbound

Departure date

Price from $32,007

MS Roald Amundsen

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Shore Excursion Details

Exclusive peggy's cove and titanic, halifax, nova scotia.

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• 3 1/2 hrs Estimate Duration

Visit two of Halifax's most popular landmarks, Peggy's Cove and the Fairview Lawn Cemetery – final resting place of 121 passengers of the Titanic. Enjoy scenic views on your way to Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse- it has been an inspiration for generations of writers, photographers and painters. Take time to explore the shops and galleries around this working fishing community before returning to town.

At the Fairview Lawn Cemetery, your guide will walk the grounds with you, bringing to life the tale of the great ship Titanic and its ill-fated maiden voyage. Discover the true identities of the unknown child and J. Dawson, both recovered from the icy waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Their stories are part of a legacy that continues to fascinate visitors after 100 years.

Need to Know:

Check out the, activity attributes, excursion type:.

Scenic & City Tours

Activity level:.

• 3 Challenging

• Itinerary Planning
• Cape Breton
• Cabot Trail
• Peggy's Cove
• Bay of Fundy
• Northumberland Shore
• Celtic Colours
• Whale Watching
• Essential Info
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Where to Eat

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• Titanic cemeteries

Halifax Titanic Cemeteries

Visiting the Titanic cemeteries is a heart-wrenching experience.  I was not sure what to expect and found myself pondering what it must have been like for the people on the Titanic that fateful night.  And what it must have been like for the people of Halifax and how the tragedy overwhelmed the city.

I did not see the cemeteries as a tourist attraction but as a place to pay solemn respect to all who perished as well to those who survived.  A visit to these sites can be quite emotional given the extent of the tragedy.

The 3 cemeteries used were Fairview Lawn (121 graves), Mount Olivet (19 graves) and Baron de Hirsch (10 graves). Each cemetery has informational panels indicating the location of the grave sites.

I met a lady from Australia when I was there.  Her great uncle perished in the sinking and she was looking for his gravesite.  She did not seem to know much about what else there was to see so I gave her my map of the titanic interest points.  She was so grateful. She was amazed at the Halifax connection to the Titanic.

The layout of the tombstones at Fairview Lawn is interesting.  They are arranged in the shape of a ship's hull.  Most of the grave markers are the same.  These ones were paid for by the owner of the Titanic.

Some graves remained without any names for a long time.  Modern technology has helped to identify those graves.  Information markers in the cemeteries explain how this came about.

Did you know there are many Titanic connections throughout Nova Scotia?  There are numerous community museums and locations who have displays, collections and stories about the Titanic . Check out my eBook, The Titanic in Nova Scotia , and learn where you can find them.

The 'Unknown Child'

One thing that cannot be missed is the grave of the ‘ unknown child ’ at Fairview Lawn. This can be especially heartbreaking. When no one came forward for the little boy, the crew of the Mackay-Bennett took care of the funeral arrangements. It was  the crew of this cable ship that had found him.

To this day, visitors leave flowers and teddy bears for the baby.  This is probably the most sought after gravesite in all of the Titanic cemeteries.

It is remarkable that 95 years after the disaster, DNA testing was able to identify the child as Sidney Goodwin from Britain.  His parents and siblings also perished but his body was the only one recovered.

And then there is the pair of child ’ s shoes that were donated to the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic in 2002. They came from the family of a police sergeant who was working in Halifax at the time of the disaster.

The Halifax police department was given the responsibility of guarding the personal belongings of victims. A small pair of shoes was among the belongings.  Instead of seeing the shoes destroyed the police sergeant kept them.

The story and the shoes remained in the family. The sergeant ’ s grandson decided in 2002 to donate the shoes to the museum.

Do you want your BEST vacation ever in Nova Scotia?  Contact me about my Itinerary Planning Service .  I'll help you design your DREAM vacation!!

After much investigation the museum was sure that the shoes were authentic. They were also very sure the shoes belonged to the little boy known as the ‘ unknown child ’ .  These shoes were very important in the investigation to the child's identity. 

The shoes are now on display in the museum.  Halifax will never forget little Sidney Goodwin.

Finding the Titanic Cemeteries

Check out my Halifax map to find the location of the Fairview Lawn, Mount Olivet and Baron de Hirsch cemeteries.  The Baron de Hirsch is now known as the Beth Israel Synagogue Cemetery.

There is a wide variety of places to stay in the city and in the surrounding areas. Check out my Halifax Hotels page!

You will find many fine restaurants in Halifax. The restaurant scene has grown a lot over the last couple of years and there is something for everyone!

Check out my Halifax restaurants page. There are several resources listed to help you find a great place to eat.

More to see in Halifax -  There is lots to do in this awesome city.  Check out my Halifax pages for more attractions.

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Nova Scotia Bucket List: 18 Best Things to Do

Planning a trip to Nova Scotia? Keep reading for a list of the top things to do in Nova Scotia for your Nova Scotia bucket list!

Nova Scotia, a gem in Eastern Canada, offers a mix of scenic landscapes and cultural richness.

This Maritime province is home to historic sites, wine and nature tours, and some of the most stunning coastlines in Canada.

I spent nearly a week in Nova Scotia. If I hadn't been visiting locals who knew the area well, I would have been overwhelmed with choices while deciding how to spend my time.

After my trip to Nova Scotia, I worked with a few Nova Scotia experts to put together this ultimate Nova Scotia bucket list .

This list includes some of the top things to do in Nova Scotia, including insider tips to make the most of your experience!

On this list, you’ll find some of  Nova Scotia’s must-see attractions  along with some of the province’s  top hidden gems .

Ready to check things off your Nova Scotia bucket list? Keep reading for a guide to the best things to do in Nova Scotia!

1. Spend a Day in Peggy's Cove

Peggy's Cove , located on the eastern shore of St. Margaret's Bay, is a quintessential stop for those exploring Nova Scotia's maritime heritage.

The ideal time to visit Peggy's Cove is from late spring to early fall when the weather is mild and the Atlantic views are at their most picturesque.

A visit to Peggy's Cove isn't complete without seeing its iconic lighthouse.

Standing on granite rocks, the Peggy's Point Lighthouse, built in 1915, offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and is a perfect backdrop for photos. In fact, it's one of the most photographed spots in Canada!

The village of Peggy's Cove itself looks like a postcard, with its historic houses and buildings painted in bright, coastal colors.

Throughout the village, you'll find local artisans and quaint shops selling unique Nova Scotian crafts and souvenirs, as well as the typical kitschy souvenirs found at popular tourist destinations.

For a deeper dive into the area's history, the deGarthe Museum showcases the works of artist William E. deGarthe, famous for his paintings of Peggy's Cove.

Peggy's Cove is one of the most popular day trips from Halifax, and it's very easy to get there. You can book a day tour of Peggy's Cove from Halifax or make the scenic drive yourself, offering a chance to experience more of Nova Scotia's stunning coastline.

This is the best day tour of Peggy's Cove from Halifax !

2. Go Wine Tasting in the Annapolis Valley

The Annapolis Valley, a lush agricultural region in Nova Scotia, is a haven for wine enthusiasts that's sometimes known as the Napa Valley of the Northeast.

You can easily spend a day winery-hopping while also admiring the Valley's picturesque landscapes.

A must-visit destination in the Annapolis Valley is Luckett Vineyards. Known for its panoramic views and the unique phone booth in its vineyard, Luckett offers some of the best wines in the Valley.

Their tastings often include a selection of their best reds, whites, and the much-loved phone box wine.

You can also enjoy a meal at their on-site restaurant, which offers dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. Don't miss their fries with the truffle aioli!

Another must-visit is Benjamin Bridge Vineyard, renowned for its exceptional sparkling wines that have gained international acclaim.

The vineyard uses traditional methods and has a unique microclimate that contributes to the distinct character of its wines.

Don't miss trying the Nova 7, a refreshing wine that has become a signature of Nova Scotia's wine scene.

For those planning a visit, the Annapolis Valley is easily accessible from Halifax either by car or through organized tours.

One of the most fun ways to experience wine tasting in Annapolis Valley is the Classic Vintage Car Wine Tour .

The small-group tour, which picks up in Wolfville, takes you around in a vintage 1940s car to some of the best wineries in the Valley.

BOOK NOW: The Classic Vintage Car Wine Tour

3. Walk on the ocean floor at Burntcoat Head Park

Burntcoat Head Park, located along the shores of the Bay of Fundy in Nova Scotia, is a unique destination for those intrigued by natural wonders and maritime history.

The park is famous for having some of the highest tides in the world. Visitors can walk on the ocean floor at low tide and witness the dramatic rise and fall of the tides.

The highlight of the Burntcoat Head Park experience is exploring the ocean floor, where you can see the patterns etched into the seabed by the powerful tides.

The park offers guided tours that explain the unique geology of the area and the diverse marine life that inhabits the tidal zone.

Another highlight is the Burntcoat Head Lighthouse. The lighthouse and adjacent interpretive center provide insights into the local history and the significance of the Bay of Fundy's tides.

When planning your visit to Burntcoat Head Park, make sure to watch the tides and plan for visiting at low tide so that you can walk on the ocean floor.

While the park is still beautiful at high tide, being able to walk on the ocean floor at low tide is one of the most unique experiences that you can have on your Nova Scotia bucket list.

As you can probably guess, the ocean floor is a bit slippery and uneven. Wear sturdy, comfortable soles with good traction to keep from falling!

4. Explore the Halifax Waterfront

Exploring the Halifax Waterfront is one of the top experiences to add to your Nova Scotian bucket list.

The waterfront, stretching along the city's downtown area, combines historical charm with modern attractions, making it a must-visit destination.

The best time to explore the Halifax Waterfront is during the summer months, when the boardwalk is bustling with activity, and the harbour views are at their most stunning.

The area is a hub of entertainment, with street performers, local artisans, and waterfront festivals adding to the atmosphere.

For the perfect lunch on the waterfront, head to The Bicycle Thief , a renowned restaurant known for its "North American food with an Italian soul".

The Bicycle Thief is one of the top Halifax restaurants. It's perfectly located overlooking the harbour. You can't go wrong with anything on the menu!

For a sweet treat, trying Moonmist ice cream is a must.

This uniquely Nova Scotian flavor, a combo of banana, grape, and bubblegum, is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. It can be found at Sugah!, an ice cream shop along the waterfront.

Another iconic Canadian treat to try is a BeaverTail. These delicious pastries are hand-stretched to resemble a beaver’s tail and topped with a variety of sweet toppings. There is a BeaverTail stall located on the waterfront.

If you want to try all of the best foods along the waterfront, consider taking a Halifax Harbourfront food tour .

Aside from dining, the waterfront offers a range of activities.

You can explore maritime history at the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, enjoy a harbour cruise , or simply relax by the water's edge, watching the boats go by.

5. Get spooked on the Halifax Ghost Walk

If you're interested in learning more about the haunted history of Halifax, consider adding the Halifax Ghost Walk to your Nova Scotia bucket list.

There are a couple of different guides who lead the ghost walk, with many of them being led by Dusty, a master storyteller and expert on Halifax's haunted past.

The tour starts at the Old Town Clock, a landmark steeped in history, then winds through the shadowy lanes and byways of Halifax.

Participants are taken to various locations known for their paranormal activity and historical significance, such as the Old Burying Ground and Saint Paul's Church.

My favorite stop on the tour was the one at Saint Paul's Church.

After the Halifax Explosion in 1917, a silhouette resembling a human face mysteriously appeared in one of the church's windows.

Despite attempts to clean or replace the glass, the image persisted, leading to various legends about its origin.

The tour eventually ends at the waterfront, with a couple of the spookiest stories being saved for last.

The Halifax Ghost Walk is a fun experience for anyone who enjoys hearing spooky stories and visiting historic sites.

Pro tip: The walk begins at the very top of Citadel Hill (you'll walk to the top after meeting at the clock) and ends all the way down at the waterfront.

If you want to avoid too much of an uphill journey at the end of the tour, I recommend parking somewhere halfway between the Citadel and the Waterfront.

Tours run from June to October. To book your spot on the Halifax Ghost Walk, send a message on Facebook or follow these instructions .

6. Stroll through the Halifax Public Gardens

Visiting the Halifax Public Gardens is one of the top things to do in the city.

These historic gardens, established in the 19th century, are a perfect spot for a peaceful stroll or a relaxing break.

The gardens are open yearly from May 1 through November 1. Visiting during the summer is best as there are blooms everywhere!

One of the standout features is the Victorian bandstand, which often hosts live music. Guided tours are available for those interested in learning more about the garden's history and the plants it houses.

7. Visit the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21

by Riana from Teas poon of Adventure

One of the best things to do in Halifax is visit the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 to learn about how Canada has become one of the most multicultural countries in the world.

From 1928 to 1971, one million immigrants arrived at the port in Halifax to begin their new lives in Canada.

Start your journey at the Canadian Museum of Immigration by following in the footsteps of an immigrant arriving at Pier 21.

Walk along the side of a ship, enter the processing office, and look into recreated suitcases of what immigrants brought with them to Canada.

On the other side of the museum, the scope broadens to look at immigration to Canada outside of just Pier 21 in Halifax.

In addition to recreated rooms, there are interactive games, videos, and lots of artifacts to discover. You can even meet with an archivist to trace your own family’s immigration history through Canada.

As a Canadian, visiting the museum at Pier 21 was extremely impactful. I was filled with so much pride hearing from immigrants who made the move to Canada.

I also really appreciated that the museum didn’t shy away from Canada’s uglier history when immigration wasn’t open to everyone. 

My favorite part of the museum was a section where visitors could write about their own immigration experiences.

It was incredibly moving to read notes about how someone's grandparents arrived in Canada through Pier 21 or how happy they were that their families chose to move to Canada.

Give yourself lots of time to enjoy this incredibly well-put-together and emotional museum!

BOOK NOW: Canadian Museum of Immigration Tickets

8. Visit the Historic Town of Lunenburg

by Audrey from That Backpacker

The historic port town of Lunenburg is one of the jewels of Nova Scotia's South Shore, and it's a must-visit destination for travelers wanting to learn more about the province's fishing heritage.

The best time of year to visit Lunenburg is during the summer months when most tours and attractions are up and running for the public.

First on your list should be a visit to the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic which is housed in a former fish processing plant.

Here you can learn about Lunenburg's fishing heritage and the best part is that there are volunteers and retired fishermen on site who are more than happy to answer questions and share stories.

Boat tours are aplenty in Lunenburg. The 1-hour harbour tour offers postcard-perfect panoramic views of the town, but there are also fishing tours, whale-watching tours, or sailing tours depending on your preference.

The Lunenburg Chandlery is another must-visit spot for a dose of fishing and shipbuilding history.

Just head east on Bluenose Drive until you see the red building with hundreds of colorful buoys out front.

This warehouse deals in supplies and equipment for ships and boats, plus you can also pick up some unique souvenirs.

And if you time your visit to Lunenburg right, you might just be able to set foot aboard the Bluenose II or even go for a sail!

This is a replica of an iconic fishing and sailing schooner that won many races and became known as the "Queen of the North Atlantic". The Bluenose can be seen on the Canadian dime and is the pride and joy of Nova Scotians.

You can book a day tour of Lunenburg from Halifax , or visit independently by taking a Maritime Bus from Halifax or driving yourself.

This is the best day tour of Lunenburg from Halifax !

9. Check out the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic

by Kim from Explore Your Bucket List

The location of Nova Scotia on the Atlantic Ocean has meant that many significant events have happened along these shores.

The Maritime Museum explores many of the incidents that have happened within its proximity, and it happens to be the oldest maritime museum in all of Canada.

The museum is located on the Halifax waterfront and the permanent exhibitions cover several interesting facts related to Nova Scotia’s maritime roots. 

They explore the history of shipbuilding in the Maritimes and describe the naval involvement during World War II. But the most significant and best-known exhibit is the devastating story of the Titanic and the important role that Halifax played.

Being the closest major port to the wreck site, many of those who perished in the sinking were brought to Halifax along with important personal artifacts including letters and photographs as well as pieces of the ship.

It is an impressive display that has been carefully curated to tell the story of that fateful day.

While it is a sobering exhibit, it does an excellent job of giving a full description of the ship's creation, life onboard, and the sinking and its aftermath.

The museum is open every day except Mondays in the winter season.

When planning a visit, be sure to check out the different admission rates depending on the season as well as the available discounts – see the museum website for eligibility requirements.

10. Go Whale Watching off Digby Neck

by Joanna from The World in My Pocket

Going whale watching is one of the bucket list experiences that you must do when you visit Nova Scotia.

One of the most popular places to go to see whales is the Digby Neck, located 40 minutes away from the town of Digby.

The best time to see whales in Nova Scotia is between July and September. After September, most of the companies stop running tours. In September you will also notice a reduced schedule, so make sure to book ahead of time.

The whale-watching companies are located in East Ferry, Tiverton, Freeport, and Westport. To reach them you will need a car, as there is no public transport available.

Also, bear in mind that you will need to cross by ferry, either once or twice, depending on where you are going, so keep in mind the crossing timings. The passage is free.

The whale watching experience is incredible. You will board a small fishing boat and go search for them in the Bay of Fundy.

The crew includes two marine biologists who can spot where the whales are, as well as answer any questions you may have about them.

The most common whales in the Bay of Fundy are the Humpback and the Minky. Besides whales, you can also see seals and different types of birds.

The tours last between 2 and 3 hours, depending on how close the whales are to the shore.

When you return to Digby in the evening, don’t miss having the famous seafood platter from The Crow’s Nest restaurant. They are serving some of the staples of the food in Nova Scotia , such as fried clams, lobster, and, of course, the Digby scallops.

11. Drive the incredible Cabot Trail

by Erin from Wanderlust with Kids

The Cabot Trail is an incredible drive in Cape Breton that is among the most scenic road trips in the world.

With breathtaking scenery and plenty of outdoor opportunities, this famous drive is one of the highlights of visiting Nova Scotia.

The Cabot Trail winds its way along rugged coastlines, through lush Acadian forests, and into charming coastal communities.

It passes through Cape Breton Highlands National Park, where you can stop at one of the many scenic viewpoints for stunning views of the coastline.

In addition to the stunning scenery, there are scenic trails to hike and campgrounds where you can stay overnight. There is an entrance fee of $8.50 for an adult (youth are free) to enter the park, even if you’re not staying overnight.

The Cabot Trail then continues through small fishing villages and coastal communities, where you can stop for a bite to eat or an overnight stay.

Keep an eye out for moose, eagles, and whales along the way, especially as you pass through Cape Breton Highlands National Park.

Cape Breton has a strong Acadian and Scottish heritage, and you’ll see road signs in both English and Gaelic, as well as Acadian French.

The Cabot Trail is a 298-kilometer (185-mile) loop and while it can be completed in a day, it’s recommended to take your time and make the drive a 2-day, or even longer if you have the time.

You can also purchase an audio tour of the Cabot Trail , which will guide you along the trail's points of interest and best views.

As the Cabot Trail is a loop, there’s no start and end point, but many start the journey in Baddeck, Cheticamp, or Ingonish.

Wherever you choose to begin the Cabot Trail, you’re in for an amazing journey. 

BOOK NOW: Cabot Trail Audio Tour

12. Visit the Halifax Citadel

by Chelsea from Adventures of Chels

A site to see on your Nova Scotia bucket list should be the Halifax Citadel.

Located right in the heart of Halifax is the historical citadel. The city was founded in 1749 and four fortifications have been built on this site to protect the city from enemies.

In 1935, the Citadel was declared a National Historic Site in Canada and is open year-round for visitors. It’s maintained by Parks Canada and was restored to the way it looked during the Victorian era.

While visiting the Citadel you’ll learn about the city and military history of Halifax and have a chance to visit the Army Museum.

During peak season (June 1 to September 15) admission to enter the fort is $12.50 for adults (18-64 years), $10.75 for seniors (65 years or older), and for youth (under 17 years) it’s free.

During shoulder season (May 1st-31st and September 16th-October 31st) prices are $8.50 for adults, $7.00 for seniors, and still free for youth.

While there’s an admission to go inside the Citadel, the space outdoors is free to walk around. Enjoy a stroll around the fort and take in the scenic views of the surrounding city and harbour.

Enjoy your visit to the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site!

13. See adorable puffins on a Puffin Tour

by Erin from Nova Scotia Bucket List

Nova Scotia is home to some incredible scenery and unique experiences, among those, the chance to see puffins in their natural habitat.

While other areas of the North Atlantic are more well-known for their puffins, Nova Scotia is also home to these cute seabirds.

Puffins spend most of their lives at sea but come ashore each year to nest.

The rugged coastline and rocky shores of Nova Scotia’s offshore islands provide a perfect place for puffins to nest.

However, since they don’t live on the mainland, a boat tour is necessary to view these incredible birds.

The best place to see  puffins in Nova Scotia  is the Bird Islands, just off the coast of Cape Breton.

Several companies offer puffin boat tours , which last a few hours and welcome adults and kids of all ages.

During the tour, you’re sure to see other seabirds, including terns, cormorants, eagles, and razorbills.

It’s also possible to take a puffin tour from Peggy’s Cove to Pearl Island, which is just off the shore of Mahone Bay, and one of the most southern nesting places of puffins in Nova Scotia.

Brier Island, which is known for whale-watching, also offers boat tours where you’ll have the chance to see dolphins, whales, seals, as well as puffins and other seabirds.

These puffin tours are an incredible experience and a memory that you won’t forget. 

14. Hike the Skyline Trail on Cape Breton Island

by Marianne from The Journeying Giordanos

The Skyline Trail in Cape Breton is a must-visit for anyone considering a trip to Nova Scotia.

This iconic trail is known for its jaw-dropping views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence and the incredible Cape Breton Highlands.

The Skyline Trail is located on the western side of Cape Breton Island, midway between Chéticamp and Pleasant Bay.

Just a heads up, the trail is situated inside Cape Breton Highlands National Park . This means that you will need to purchase a Day Pass from the Parks Canada Visitor's Centre in Chéticamp before you hike.

With a distance of around 8.7 kilometers (5.4 miles), the Skyline Trail is rated as easy to moderate, making the hike perfect for all skill levels. The loop trail takes about 2-3 hours to complete, going at an easy pace.

The majority of the trail is made up of crushed gravel, making it very accessible for families with young children, as well as people with varied mobility. The last section of the hike is comprised of a wooden boardwalk.

Just be aware, that the section of the boardwalk going down to the headlands is made up of a series of stairs. This is the most challenging part of the hike.

While the Skyline Trail is one of the most popular hikes in Nova Scotia, you will find plenty of parking at the trailhead. There is even parking for RVs and campers.

When planning your visit, consider going early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and have the best chance for wildlife sightings. In fact, a sunset hike is one of the most epic ways to experience the Skyline Trail.

15. Check out the town of Wolfville

by Kamila from Expat in Canada

Wolfville might be a small town but it definitely doesn’t lack in charm. It sits in the lushest part of Annapolis Valley, dotted with orchards and vineyards.

The city is home to historic Acadia University and the beautiful Harriet Irving Botanical Gardens .

The gardens are open to the public and free to visit, so you won’t want to miss it.

It’s a tranquil area with multiple trails and perfectly groomed plants to walk around. There is also an aesthetically pleasing historic greenhouse.

For a small town, Wolfville has a surprising number of cafes and restaurants. I recommend Troy , which serves Mediterranean cuisine, or Naked Crepe Bistro for delicious crepes.

Church Brewing is a cool spot to sample local craft beer. The brewery is in a former church and has stunning stained-glass windows. Their outdoor patio is a perfect place to enjoy a drink or two on a summer day.  

For cider lovers, Annapolis Cider Company is a must-visit. You can do a cider tasting to sample the top-notch ciders made from Annapolis Valley apples, and perhaps buy a bottle of cider to take home with you as a souvenir.

Their ciders are amazing, and they have interesting varieties like a combination of Earl Grey and blueberry. 

Timing is everything, and Wolfville is at its best in the summer or autumn seasons when the harvesting at local farm markets is in full swing. 

One of my favorite things to do in Wolfville is fruit picking at local U-pick farms - Elderkin’s, Hennigar’s, or Stirling’s. 

16. Explore Annapolis Royal

by Cate from Intentional Traveling

A great place to include on your Nova Scotia bucket list is the historic town of Annapolis Royal.

Annapolis Royal is a small town that can be fully explored in a day, but it is worth staying overnight in the summer,

During the day, be sure to visit the Annapolis Royal Historic Gardens. These exquisite gardens are considered to be one of the top five most beautiful gardens in North America.

With eleven acres to wander, you can easily spend an hour or two here. The rose gardens were my personal favorite!

You can also spend some time perusing the little shops and cafes on St. George Street.

For dinner, make a reservation at Restaurant Compose , where you can enjoy a stunning sea view during sunset. Make sure to take a stroll on the boardwalk along the water before or after dinner.

After dark, don’t miss the award-winning Candlelight Graveyard Tour at Fort Anne National Historic Site.

This tour only takes place in the summer months, but it is a fun and engaging way to learn about the history of the town!

If you want to stay overnight, I suggest staying at the historic Queen Anne Inn . This Victorian bed and breakfast will make you feel as though you have stepped back in time. 

Make sure to add this small historic town to your Nova Scotia itinerary! 

17. Visit Meat Cove

by Stefanie from Open Road Odysseys

If you’re looking for a place in Nova Scotia that’s a little off the beaten path, you should take a drive to Meat Cove.

Meat Cove is the northernmost settlement in Nova Scotia. The village itself is quite small but holds a lot of charm. It’s located about 28 kilometers (17.3 miles) from Cape North and the Cabot Trail, and the drive to get there takes approximately 35 minutes.

While Meat Cove may be tiny, there are quite a few things to see here to make the detour worth the drive.

One of the most popular things to do is camp at the local campground and get delicious seafood from Lawless Lobster , the food truck on site.

If camping isn’t your thing, they also offer cabins and a chalet guesthouse for those wanting to spend more time in the area in comfort.

Perhaps one of the most rewarding activities in the area is hiking. There are two popular trails here.

The first is the Meat Cove Overlook Trail . While it may be short, it offers gorgeous seaside views, a stunning vantage point of Meat Cove Beach, and is a short, fairly easy hike.

If you want more of a challenge, Meat Cove Mountain Trail fits the bill.

Other things to do in Meat Cove include checking out the community center, walking the boardwalk to the beach, kayaking around the coast, and eating at the Chowder Hut, which is also located at the campground.

One thing to note: the last 6 kilometers of road to Meat Cove is not paved, but is in decent shape, so any vehicle should be able to make the drive to the village with no problems.

18. Check out Ovens Natural Park

by Jenny from Traveling In Focus

Ovens Natural Park is an exquisite oasis tucked inside a private campground along the Atlantic coastline.

For a small day fee (unless you are staying at the park), you can enjoy this area steeped in history and natural beauty.

The park's roots date back to 1861 when there was a short but impressive gold rush. Today, you can indulge in the prospecting experience by sifting through beach sand at Cunard's Beach for specks of gold – a fun homage to the park's past.

But the main attraction of the park is its majestic sea caves, affectionately known as "ovens."

To see the sea caves, you will take the rugged coastal trail high on the cliffs. It's an easy trail with breathtaking panoramic views over the Atlantic Ocean.

Along the trail, there are several locations where you can descend into the caves, if you dare, and get an up-close view of the caves from within.

One, in particular, has an excellent view of the ocean as it pours into the mouth of the cave just below the platform you stand on. But watch out for the blow-hole, or you might be drenched for the remainder of your walk!

If the trail wasn't enough and you want more time exploring the caves, the park also offers kayaking tours to see them from a different perspective.

With its unique "ovens" and gold rush history, Ovens Natural Park shouldn't be missed on a visit to Nova Scotia.

Nova Scotia Bucket List: Final Thoughts

As you can see, there are so many amazing things to do all around Nova Scotia to include on your Nova Scotia bucket list.

Even if you can’t knock everything out in one visit, you’ll be ready to go back to the province for more exploring!

Have you been to Nova Scotia? What’s on your Nova Scotia bucket list?

• International

June 19, 2023 - Search mission underway for missing Titanic tour submersible

By Elise Hammond , Maureen Chowdhury and Mike Hayes, CNN

Our live coverage of the search for the missing Titanic tour submersible has moved here.

OceanGate says it's taking "every step possible" to bring missing submersible crew back to safety

From CNN’s Jackie Wattles

OceanGate Expeditions says it is taking “every step possible” to return the five crew members onboard the missing submersible to safety and focusing its entire search effort on their wellbeing, according to a statement released by the company Monday night.

OceanGate Expeditions is the group that was conducting the expedition to view the wreckage of the Titanic.

“We are deeply grateful for the urgent and extensive assistance we are receiving from multiple government agencies and deep-sea companies as we seek to reestablish contact with the submersible,” the statement read.

Here's the full statement:

“For some time, we have been unable to establish communications with one of our submersible exploration vehicles which is currently visiting the wreck site of the Titanic. Our entire focus is on the wellbeing of the crew and every step possible is being taken to bring the five crew members back safely. We are deeply grateful for the urgent and extensive assistance we are receiving from multiple government agencies and deep-sea companies as we seek to reestablish contact with the submersible. We pray for the safe return of the crew and passengers, and we will provide updates as they are available.” 

US Coast Guard to continue surface search for missing submersible throughout the evening

From CNN’s Artemis Moshtaghian

The US Coast Guard  tweeted that it will continue to conduct surface searches for the missing submersible throughout the evening.

The Coast Guard tweeted that The Polar Prince, the vessel used to transport the submersible to the site of the Titanic wreckage before the expedition, as well as aerial support from the Air Force’s 106th Rescue Wing will be involved in the surface searches. 

Canadian Coast Guard surface and subsurface search, as conducted by Canadian P8 Poseidon aircraft, will continue in the morning, according to the US Coast Guard.

Titanic's fate has long been a source of fascination. Here are some key facts about the luxury liner

From CNN Staff

The submersible that has gone missing in the North Atlantic was part of an expedition to view the wreckage of the RMS Titanic, perhaps the most famous shipwreck in the world.

More than 100 years after its disastrous maiden voyage, the fate of the luxury liner has long served as a source of fascination , and been the backdrop for countless books, fiction and non-fiction and, of course, the blockbuster movie.

The ship set sail from Southampton, England, to New York on April 10, 1912.

Then, between April 14-15, it hit an iceberg around midnight and sank in less than three hours.

A total of 1,517 people died and 706 survived out of 2,223 passengers and crew, according to the  US Senate report  on the disaster.

Here's more interesting facts on the Titanic:

The ship: The estimated cost of construction was $7.5 million. At the time, the RMS Titanic was the largest passenger ship afloat. The ship’s length was 882 feet, 9 inches, and it weighed 46,328 tons. Its top speed was 23 knots. The wreckage is located about 350 miles off the southeast coast of Newfoundland.

The cause of the crash: The iceberg punctured five of 16 supposedly watertight compartments designed to hold water in case of a breach to the hull. Investigations at the time blamed Capt. Edward Smith for going too fast in dangerous waters, initial ship inspections that had been done too quickly, insufficient room in the lifeboats for all passengers, and a nearby ship’s failure to help. Many maritime safety reforms were implemented as a result of the findings of the investigations.

Smith went down with the ship, and his body was never recovered.

Key dates post-shipwreck:

• September 1, 1985 -  Scientists from Woods Hole Deep Submergence LAB in Massachusetts, led by Dr. Robert Ballard, and IFREMER, the French Institute Francais de Recherche pour l’Exploitation des Mers, led by Jean Jarry, locate the wreckage of Titanic.
• July 13, 1986 -  Ballard and his crew use the manned deep-ocean research submersible Alvin to explore the wreckage. The Alvin is accompanied by a remotely operated vehicle named Jason Jr. to conduct photographic surveys and further inspections.
• May 31, 2009 -  The last known survivor, Millvina Dean, dies at age 97.
• April 8-20, 2012 -  The 100th anniversary of the Titanic’s voyage. The MS Balmoral traces the ship’s route from Southampton to New York and holds a memorial service, above the wreck, on April 15.

Read more here .

Aircraft and sonar deployed in search for missing submersible. Here's what we know

From CNN staff

A search and rescue operation is underway for a missing submersible operated by a company that handles expeditions to the Titanic wreckage off the coast of St John’s, Newfoundland, in Canada.

The vessel has between 70 and 96 hours of life support, officials said Monday afternoon.

Here's what we know so far:

• The timeline: The expedition began with a 400-nautical-mile journey to the wreck site, which is about 900 miles off the coast of Cape Cod, Massachusetts. The submersible began its descent Sunday morning but lost contact with a crew of Polar Prince , the support ship that transported the vessel to the site, 1 hour and 45 minutes into its descent, officials said. The US Coast Guard was alerted that the submersible was overdue and it launched searches on the surface of the water and launched an aircraft to start conducting aerial and radar searches, Rear Adm. John Mauger said during a news conference Monday.

Here's a map of area:

• What we know about the vessel: The submersible, named “Titan,” is 23,000 pounds and made of carbon fiber and titanium, according to the tour operator, OceanGate Expeditions. The 21-foot vessel has life support for up to 96 hours, according to the OceanGate website . Mauger said officials "anticipate that they're somewhere between 70 to the full 96 hours " of oxygen available on the vessel at this point. The  Titanic wreckage, discovered in 1985 , sits in two parts at the bottom of the ocean nearly 13,000 feet below the surface.
• Who is on board: Five people are in the missing submersible, according to authorities. Businessman  Hamish Harding is one of the passengers, according to a social media post by his company, Action Aviation. Typically a pilot, a “content expert” and three paying passengers are on the expeditions, according to the OceanGate website. The cost of joining the eight-day expedition is "from $250,000," according to the operator. Mauger said the Coast Guard is notifying the families of the people on the submersible.
• Search efforts: The effort is incorporating aircraft, sonar buoys and "sonar on the ship that is out there to listen for any sounds that we can detect in the water column," Mauger said. The Polar Prince is also assisting with the search, a co-owner said. The Canadian Armed Forces and the US Coast Guard have deployed aircraft to the remote area of the North Atlantic.
• What's next: The Coast Guard said its priority is locating the vessel. If crews do find the vessel in the water, then rescue plans will be formed, Mauger said. At that point, the Coast Guard will reach out to the US Navy, the Canadian Armed Forces and private industry partners to assess what "underwater rescue capability might be available," Mauger said.

Businessman Hamish Harding is one of the passengers on the submersible, his company says

From CNN's Paul P. Murphy 

Businessman and adventurer Hamish Harding is one of the passengers on the submersible that went missing during a dive to the wreckage of the Titanic, according to a social media post by his company, Action Aviation. 

OceanGate, the company conducting the expedition, released a statement Monday confirming it lost contact with the submersible but did not specify who was onboard.

Harding, a British national, was one of the first people to travel  the Challenger Deep  in the Pacific Ocean — the deepest known point on Earth.

The United Arab Emirates-based businessman also made headlines in 2019 for being part of a flight crew that broke the world record for the  fastest circumnavigation  of the globe via both poles. More recently, he was a passenger on Blue Origin’s June 2022 space flight .  

Harding  posted  on Facebook on Saturday about his participation in the expedition.

“I am proud to finally announce that I joined OceanGate Expeditions for their RMS TITANIC Mission as a mission specialist on the sub going down to the Titanic,” the post read.

CNN has reached out to Action Aviation for comment but did not immediately receive a response. 

The Explorers Club, a New York-based group of elite explorers and scientists that’s been involved in many of the world’s most prestigious discoveries, confirmed Harding was on the submersible.

President Richard Garriott de Cayeux said he saw Hamish last week and “his excitement about this expedition was palpable,” Cayeux wrote in a statement, “I know he was looking forward to conducting research at the site.”

Harding is one of the founding members of the club.

A spokesperson for the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office told CNN it was aware of reports of a British citizen on the submersible.

“We are in contact with the family of a British man following reports of a missing submarine off the coast of North America,” the spokesperson said.

CNN’s Artemis Moshtaghian contributed reporting to this post.

Canadian Armed Forces mobilize aircraft to assist in search for missing submersible

From CNN’s Paula Newton

The Canadian Armed Forces is deploying an aircraft to assist in the search for the missing submersible near the Titanic wreckage, a spokesperson told CNN.

“A Royal Canadian Air Force CC-130 Hercules is preparing to join the search as well,” Len Hickey, a senior public affairs officer for the Canadian Armed Forces, wrote in a statement to CNN.

The US Coast Guard said earlier that it had also deployed aircraft that is searching the surface of the ocean and underwater.

Submersible has 70 to 96 hours of oxygen available, Coast Guard says

US Coast Guard Rear Admiral John Mauger said that the submersible has 96 hours of emergency oxygen on board, based on information received from the vessel operator.

The Coast Guard "anticipate that they're somewhere between 70 to the full 96 hours" of oxygen available on the vessel at this point, he said during a news conference Monday.

Priority on Monday is to locate missing Titanic submersible, Coast Guard commander says

Right now the Coast Guard said its priority is locating the missing submersible that didn’t emerge on Sunday after an expedition to the Titanic wreckage.

Rear Adm. John Mauger, the commander of the First Coast Guard District that is in charge of operations, said that if crews do find the vessel in the water, then rescue plans will be formed. 

Mauger said the Coast Guard is "reaching out to different partners within the US Navy, within the Canadian Armed Forces and within private industry to understand what underwater rescue capability might be available."

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