Happy in Halifax: Top spots for a spring trip

With the Canadian dollar at a low, giving American tourist dollars more purchasing punch north of the border, this is the perfect time to plan a trip to Halifax. Tucked away at the edge of the Atlantic, the bustling seaport city is home to the world’s second-largest harbor and North America’s oldest salt-water ferry. Riding on the upper deck of the ferry while breathing in the salty air is the best way to take in the city’s skyline. You’ll pass naval fleets docked in the harbor, and catch a glimpse of the lighthouse perched on mysterious George’s Island jutting out in the distance. Halifax boasts a top-notch live music scene, is known for its infamous Donair sandwich, and is said to have the most pubs per capita of any Canadian city.

Halifax Harbor Ferry

Dating back to 1752, the harbor ferry is a favorite way for  Haligonians to travel to and from work, and for visitors to enjoy the scenic crossing. The 12-minute, $2.50 ride drops you off on the other side of the harbor in historic downtown Dartmouth, where you can linger and catch a later return trip for the same price. Nothing beats cruising along the harbor at twilight when the Halifax skyline lights up, and the last rays of the sun’s glow glisten off the water. It’s an optimal time to create a few photo memories.

Halifax Boardwalk

One of the world’s longest downtown boardwalks, this 2.5-mile coastal trail is filled with buskers, aspiring fiddlers and a fabulous array of savory seafood found in the vibrant seaside shacks. From fresh oysters to lobster rolls and a steaming bowl of chowder — it's all there. Be sure to save room for the homemade Rum Runners Cake (Halifax has a long and sordid history of rum running dating back centuries). The Rum Cake Factory, located on the boardwalk, drenches their original cake recipe with rum made at the Glenora Distillery on Nova Scotia’s Cape Breton Island.

Maritime Museum of the Atlantic

The boardwalk is also home to the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic. You can step aboard the CSS Acadia, Canada's only surviving navy ship to have served in both world wars. In addition, the museum houses an exceptional Titanic exhibit, called Life Aboard Titanic, which showcases haunting artifacts and gives a glimpse of what various classes of travel would have been like on board. After the disaster, Halifax played a pivotal role in the grueling search mission at sea. All who perished and were recovered when the Titanic sank on April 15, 1912, were brought to Halifax. Many of the victims are buried at Fairview Lawn Cemetery, in the city’s north end.

The Seaport Market

Halifax's Seaport Market is the longest continuously running market in North America. Since the market’s inception 266 years ago (1750), it has been selling fresh local produce and meats. The present market is filled with over 250 vendors, many of whom are talented artists and craftsmen, drawing their inspiration from the sea and maritime roots. You can sample a taste of Nova Scotian wine, which is making quite a name for itself internationally, and local beer from the many craft breweries popping up all over the province. The market’s second level provides an outdoor deck with lovely views of the lighthouse on George’s Island.

Argyle Street

Restaurants, pubs and live music venues line happening Argyle Street. Halifax has long been a music town, with different genres being played somewhere throughout the city every night of the week. You can catch top local acts performing at the renowned Carleton Bar and Grill, located in the city’s oldest building, which was built in 1759. Adjacent to it is the Press Gang restaurant and oyster bar. With its old stone walls and low candle light, it’s like stepping back in time. On Friday and Saturday nights this intimate spot transforms into the best jazz bar in town.

Citadel Hill

Each day at noon at the top of Citadel Hill, the "noon day gun" is fired, rumbling across the city as it's traditionally done since 1749. The Citadel is a dominant fortification situated on a hill overlooking downtown Halifax. It was once used by the British to defend the harbor, but today it offers a fabulous vantage point for views of the city and harbor. You can access the imposing fortress walls and try to navigate the maze of barracks. Don't miss the stark white old town clock that stands proudly at the base of the hill. Build in 1803, it was put there to ensure the city’s military forces were never late, and it's one of Halifax's most treasured landmarks.

Halifax Public Library 

The newest addition to Halifax is the highly regarded public library — a stunning architectural space that came with a sizable price tag of $57.6 million. Its creative appearance is intended to convey the illusion of colorful glass books stacked in a rectangular design, and it doesn't disappoint. This notable library houses music studios, a 300-seat auditorium and two cafés. It even has a stunning rooftop terrace, allowing visitors to go outside book in hand and breathe in the magic of Halifax.