Halifax's North End has long been known for its award-winning restaurants, local shopping, and thriving arts scene, but the real magic of the area comes from a community in constant evolution, where there's always something new to experience.
This is why, with the help of our friends at the North End Business Association, we've pulled together a list of 10 must-do experiences in North End Halifax. The list doesn't stop here though - there are so many incredible things to do in the North End, the best way to find more is to get out there and explore!
Plan your North End adventure using the 2025 Halifax Urban Walking Map
1. Dee Dee's

Cool off with handcrafted ice cream from Dee Dee’s, featuring distinctive gourmet flavours you won’t find anywhere else.
2. Seven Bays Bouldering

Enjoy an afternoon of climbing and coffee at Seven Bays Bouldering.
3. Africville Museum

Visit the Africville Museum to explore the history, resilience, and legacy of Halifax’s historic Black community.
4. Hydrostone Market

Stroll through the Hydrostone Market—a charming, European-style hub of unique shops and local eateries.
5. Real Fake Meats

Try a vegan donair made by Top Chef Canada alum Lauren Marshall at Real Fake Meats.
6. Propeller Arcade

Step back in time with classic arcade games and savour locally crafted beer at Propeller Arcade.
7. Cuts and Paste Gallery

Visit Canada’s first gallery dedicated solely to collage and assemblage art, join a workshop, and set your creativity, scissors, and glue in motion.
8. Compass Distillers

Sample award-winning spirits from Compass, crafted with local Nova Scotian ingredients, and take a behind-the-scenes tour to discover how they’re made.
9. Seahorse Tavern

Enjoy live music and a brew at Halifax’s oldest tavern, the Seahorse Tavern.
10. Ratinaud

Collect high-quality Nova Scotian goodies from Ratinaud—crafted in the traditional French style—to create a local charcuterie board and enjoy a picnic in the Commons or Hydrostone Park.