10 Free Things to Do in Halifax

The Halifax Public Gardens are a beautifully preserved Victorian-era oasis in Downtown Halifax and a National Historic Site of Canada. Wander among colourful flowerbeds, fountains, and statues, or join a free guided horticultural and historical tour. Bird enthusiasts can also take part in free guided bird walks every Wednesday morning from May through October.

Whether you’re visiting in summer or winter, the Emera Oval offers one of Halifax’s best free family activities. Admission is always free, and so are skate, roller skate, and helmet rentals.

Meet friendly farm animals at this therapy farm, home to horses, donkeys, chickens, barn cats, and the locally famous goats. Feed the horses and donkeys apples and carrots, then step inside the goat enclosure to watch the playful herd climb, explore, and interact with visitors. Donations are encouraged, and a $5 admission fee applies to walk-in visits without an advance booking.

Home to the Nova Scotia House of Assembly, Province House is the oldest provincial legislature still in use in Canada and a National Historic Site. Admire the building’s impressive architecture, including its Victorian-style legislative library, and learn about Nova Scotia’s political history on a seasonal guided tour or year-round self-guided visit.

Visit this wildlife rehabilitation centre to learn about Nova Scotia’s native wildlife and the work that goes into rescuing and caring for injured and orphaned animals. Meet resident animals like eagles, owls, snakes, and Jessie the bobcat while discovering how Hope for Wildlife supports conservation through rescue, rehabilitation, and education. Admission is free, with donations appreciated to help support these programs.

Explore galleries throughout Downtown Halifax showcasing the work of Atlantic Canadian artists, including Argyle Fine Art, The Prow Gallery, Teichert Gallery, Verve Fine Craft Gallery, Art 1274 Hollis, the Anna Leonowens Gallery, and NSCAD’s Treaty Space Gallery. You can also visit the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia for free every Thursday evening from 5 to 9 pm.

Perched high above Halifax Harbour, York Redoubt has protected the city since 1793. Wander through more than 200 years of military history as you explore batteries, tunnels, fortifications, and gun emplacements, all while taking in panoramic views of the harbour below.

Step back in time at this working heritage farm, where you’ll find friendly farm animals, historic buildings, and gardens just 15 minutes from Downtown Halifax. Explore eight heritage buildings dating from 1780 to 1938, browse collections of antiques, and stop by the tea room before meeting the resident animals. It’s a great family-friendly attraction that offers a glimpse into Cole Harbour’s agricultural history.

Built in the late 1700s, Scott Manor House is the oldest surviving home in Bedford and one of Nova Scotia’s finest examples of colonial architecture. Explore the restored historic home, including its original hand-hewn floorboards and handmade nails before stopping by the reading room or tearoom.

Explore two historic homes in Downtown Dartmouth. Visit Evergreen House, once home to renowned folklorist Dr. Helen Creighton, who collected thousands of Maritime folk songs, including Farewell to Nova Scotia, before discovering Dartmouth’s early history at the Quaker House, one of the oldest surviving homes in the Halifax region.