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Explore Downtown Dartmouth

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Downtown Dartmouth
Year-Round

Visit Downtown Dartmouth, a walkable neighbourhood across the harbour home to a collective of unique local businesses and a creative community.

 

What to Do Here

 

Walk the Dartmouth Harbourfront, which connects both ferry terminals and offers beautiful views of Halifax Harbour. Along the way, stop at Alderney Landing, home to community events and the popular Alderney Landing Farmers’ Market, where you’ll find local produce, baked goods, crafts, and more. Nearby, Ferry Terminal Park is a great place to relax by the water, take in views of the Halifax skyline, or let the kids enjoy the playground. 

 

Take a stroll through Downtown Dartmouth to discover the neighbourhood’s growing collection of public art, including murals along Portland Street and around Dartmouth Cove. 

 

Downtown Dartmouth is also one of the region’s best spots for local food and drink. Grab a crobster roll at The Canteen, a smash burger at Side Hustle Snack Bar, fish and chips from Evan’s Fresh Seafoods, or some of the freshest sushi in the region at Doraku. For one of the best views in the city, head to the rooftop patio at Celtic Corner Public House overlooking Halifax Harbour and grab a beer. 

 

Portland Street is the heart of downtown, lined with independent cafés, shops, and restaurants. Stop in at local favourites like Cafe Goodluck for a coffee, browse vinyl at Renegade Records or Taz Records, or explore unique shops and boutiques like The Trainyard

 

If you’re looking for a drink, Downtown Dartmouth is home to several popular craft beverage spots, including Lake City Cider, Darty Brewing, Battery Park Beer Bar & Eatery, and Dear Friend Bar, ranked the 15th best bar in Canada by Canada’s 100 Best

 

Plan Your Visit

 

How to get there

 

  • Take the Halifax–Dartmouth ferry across the harbour for just $3 and enjoy the harbour views. 
  • Drive across the Macdonald or MacKay Bridge and park on the -street throughout downtown.  
  • Explore the area on foot. Downtown Dartmouth is compact, pedestrian-friendly, and easy to navigate. 

 

Local Tip

 

Take a walk up to Sullivan’s Pond to see the locally famous geese and stroll along Lake Banook. 

Things You
Should Know
  • Accessibility
    Much of Downtown Dartmouth is wheelchair accessible, including the Halifax–Dartmouth ferry, Alderney Landing, the Dartmouth Harbourfront Trail, and many shops, restaurants, and attractions. Some streets have hills and steeper sections, so planning your route ahead of time may be helpful.

  • Duration
    Plan for at least a half day.