Museum of Natural History
#15 in Best Things To Do in Halifax
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Tackling everything from geology to marine life to weather, the Museum of Natural History is a place for the curious. The "Mammals and Birds Gallery," a permanent installation, details the animals that are native to Nova Scotia. There is a replica of a bald eagle's nest as well as a life-size black bear, among other displays. Another permanent exhibit displays the history of Sable Island, famous for its shipwrecks and wild horses, as well as its topography and local flora and fauna.
The museum also hosts traveling exhibits (which may cost extra), which have explored everything from Egyptian mummies to art. There are also nature talks, walks and children's programs. It's a great place for families to spend time, but recent visitors say all ages will most likely enjoy it.
The museum, located next to the Halifax Public Gardens, is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. On Wednesday, it stays open until 9 p.m. Admission is CA$6.30 (approximately $4.50) for adults and CA$4.05 (around $3) for youths ages 6 to 17. Children age 5 and under enter for free. Special exhibits have an additional fee. For more information, visit the museum’s website.
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2 of 18#1 Halifax Citadel National Historic Site
Towering over downtown Halifax, the Citadel is a testament to the city's military past. Four forts have occupied this hilltop since 1749, when Edward Cornwallis, a career British military officer, governed the region; the fort that stands today dates back to 1856. Visitors can wander the Citadel's corridors and learn about Halifax's involvement in major wars, such as the American Revolution, the American Civil War and both World Wars. The on-site Army Museum offers a closer look at the fortress's history. And to truly feel what it was like to be on the hill back in its heyday, make sure to come at lunchtime, when reenactors of the Royal Artillery fire the traditional noon gun.
You can also interact with members of the 78th Highland Regiment. From May through October, these kilted reenactors offer free guided tours of the fort and provide insight on what it was like to be a soldier there. You can even learn to shoot a 19th-century rifle from one of these reenactors (for an extra fee and age restrictions apply).
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