Island to Mainland Daycation Adventure
| Downtown Halifax | |
| 8 hours | |
| August 8 - October 11, 2020 |
About This Experience
Visitor season extension, in response to high interest, for Georges Island National Historic Site
Take a boat ride back in time for some island exploration (and amazing views!) and enjoy the Halifax mainstays that have endured the test of time.
The Plan
- Grab a tasty, diner-style breakfast at the adorable Elle’s Bistro (family-friendly, fast, and cheerful!)
- Head to historic Georges Island in Halifax’s Harbour for some undiscovered exploration and skyline views!
- When you return to dry land, take a stroll up the hill to the Halifax Common for some outdoor fun at one of the city’s best green spaces
- Spend the evening enjoying live music, comfort food in the fresh air at The Old Triangle Alehouse’s new outdoor street patio
Breakfast at Elle’s
The early bird get the Jalapeno Bacon Cheddar Breakfast Sandwich (and the hottest coffee!)
Wake up early and head to the fast and friendly Elle’s Bistro for one of their homemade-style diner breakfasts. Enjoy coffee refills between bites of your Stuffed French Toast or Jalapeno Bacon Cheddar Sandwich or Hungry Hippo Breakfast or whatever delicious option you choose !
Once you’ve fueled up enough for your island adventure, head down to the Halifax waterfront.
Explore George’s Island!
Escape the mainland for a historic island adventure.
Take in a guided tour of the historic tunnels, enjoy the scenic views from a new perspective and immerse yourself in the rich history of Halifax this summer!
For nearly two hundred years Georges Island was the scene of constant military activity. Tales of executions, forts and hidden tunnels surround the folklore associated with the mysterious island.
Rumour has it the tunnels, including a passageway from the fortress on Citadel Hill to Fort Charlotte on Georges Island, were built below the streets to move troops around the city in secret. So far, however, there’s been no concrete, physical evidence proving the existence of a system of tunnels.
Learn more about visiting George’s Island here
Play at the Halifax Common
Play the day away with some uncommonly fun activities at the Halifax Common
Once you return to shore, head to The Halifax Commons (about a 20 minute walk). This is one of the biggest and best playground areas in HRM. There’s plenty of fun to be had here for you (and/or your family!). Stay for an hour or pack a lunch and stay for the day!
The Halifax Common is an ideal location for free, healthy outdoor fun. Here are just a few ideas:
Rollerblade or cycle around the Emera Oval: Bring your skates or bike and spend some time doing laps on the paved Oval. Be sure to bring your helmet!
Have a picnic: Whether you find a spot on the side of Citadel Hill or prefer the flat open green space of the mainland common, this is a great place to have a midday snack (plus there’s lots of takeout options nearby if you don’t want to pack your own!)
Cool off with a quick dip: The shallow public splash pad is open for some kiddie-sized fun – take a minute to dip your toe in
Enjoy the fresh evening air at the NEW Old Triangle outdoor street patio!
After a day exploring and enjoying, it’s time to gather at the place where people meet to discuss issues of the day and raise a glass – the PUB!
Head to The Old Triangle‘s NEW outdoor patio, which takes over Bedford Row and twinkles beautifully at night. Located just a 5-minute walk from the Four Points by Sheraton, there’s no better way to relax than by the din of fellow visitors, the drum of live music, and the fresh, salty outdoor air!
Fun Fact: The Old Triangle was created in 2000 by three Irishmen, and pays homage to an ancient time when a grouping of three – or triad – was regarded as a symbol of good luck.
Their three-room concept – including The Snug, The Pourhouse, and Tigh an Cheoil (house of music) – supports the belief in the three most important ingredients of a memorable occasion: cheoil (music), caint (a good chat), and craic (good times)!
Where to Stay
If you want to spread this jam-packed day out, stay overnight at the Four Points by Sheraton.
You can take advantage of 30% off with their Atlantic Bubble Rate for Atlantic Canadian Residents!
Pack & Prep
- Book your tickets to Georges Island: VisitGeorgesIsland.com, or call 902-420-1015
- Dress in layers – It’s often cooler on the water!
- Bring the summer outdoor essentials – hat, sunscreen and a full water bottle
- Bring any gear you’ll need for your Halifax Common adventure – bathing suits, picnic basket & blanket, sporting equipment!
Things you should know
| Daily Availability: | Sunday, Saturday |
| OPENING GEORGE'S ISLAND | Parks Canada and partners are pleased to welcome local residents and visitors to explore Georges Island on five select weekends, from August 8-September 6. This unique and limited opportunity will enable visitors to learn more about this hidden gem and the work being done to support future visitation. |
| VISITING GEORGE'S ISLAND | Travel to the island aboard the Harbour Queen with Murphy's on the Water. Tickets can be purchased online (click BOOK NOW), by phone (902-420-1015), or by visiting Murphy’s on the Halifax Waterfront. Schedule and fees available on their website. Your fare includes entry to the island. |
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