35 Things to Do in Nova Scotia

A Local’s Guide to Hidden Gems

Living in Nova Scotia, you start to notice how often the same places show up in every travel guide. Peggy’s Cove, the Cabot Trail, Lunenburg—they’re classics, but they barely scratch the surface of what it’s like to actually spend time here. The real Nova Scotia is quieter, slower, and sometimes a little rough around the edges—in the best way. It’s in the tidal rivers, the backroad cafés, the beaches with no signs, and the tiny museums you’d miss if a local didn’t point them out. If you want to explore Nova Scotia like a local, here are 35 authentic things to do all across the province.

1. Visit Martin the Mastodon in Stewiacke

Head to Stewiacke to visit with the giant mastodon and play a round of mini golf.

2. Explore Fort Edward in Windsor

Home to North America’s oldest military blockhouse, this National Historic Site is a beautiful place to wander in the evening.

3. Tour wineries in the Annapolis Valley

Even if you aren’t drinking, some of the best views are from wineries like Mercator Vineyards and Lucketts. Check out more about the Annapolis Valley here.

4. Eat lobster by the ocean at Halls Harbour

Sitting right on the ocean, enjoy dramatic views while wearing a plastic bib.

5. Hike Blomidon Provincial Park in Autumn

Visiting provincial parks in Nova Scotia is always free and this one comes with picnic tables and beach access. See photos here.

6. Learn about Acadian History at Grand Pre

Grand Pre National Historic Site has a fabulous museum, and beautiful views of the Valley.

7. Bike the Harvest Moon Trail

Running from Grand Pre to Middleton, this trail is completely separate from roadways and almost entirely flat. You can borrow a bike from the public library, or from many municipalities.

8. Find secret beaches in West Hants

The beaches on the 215 road are some of the nicest and least-used in the province.

9. Step into the Camera Obscura in Cherverie

This old camera technology comes from the 19th century. Stand in the dark and see a live image of the beach.

10. Walk on the Ocean Floor at Burntcoat Head

Burntcoat Head Park is home to the Dining on the Ocean Floor experiences, but you can always take a walk on your own time.

11. Tour the Nova Scotia Art Gallery (Free Thursdays!)

12. Take the ferry to Georges Island

This little island in Halifax Harbour is home to its very own National Historic Site. And it’s free in summer 2025 with the Canada Strong Pass!

13. Eat your way through Halifax

There are so many good places to eat in Halifax. For a budget experience, try Happy Hour at one of dozens of spots downtown.

14. Tour the Historic Gardens in Annapolis Royal

15. Catch live music at the Red Shoe Pub in Mabou

Mabou is home to the Rankin – a true Nova Scotia musical family. Get there early if you want a good seat!

16. Shop at the Annapolis Royal Farmers Market

17. Picnic at Lake-O-Law Provincial Park

Cape Breton is home to so many lovely parks but this is one of my favourites in Margaree.

18. Relax at MacCormacks Beach

Just outside Halifax, MacCormacks Beach is less touristy than some, and has perfect white sand.

19. Learn something new at the Highland Village

This museum in Iona on Cape Breton Island is interactive and has a huge property to explore.

20. Walk the fossil cliffs at Nova Scotia’s coolest provincial park

I think Arisaig Park is hugely underrated – but ti’s where I take everyone if we’re near Antigonish.

21. Have a meal in Windsor

On the road between Halifax and the Annapolis Valley is Windsor. This common drive-by town has grown into a cute stopping point.

22. Participate in the West Mabou Square Dance

Anyone can learn the moves!

23. Walk on White Sand in Barrington Passage

The beaches at the western-most point of Nova Scotia are hugely under-used.

24. Practice your French on Isle Madame

This French island off Cape Breton Island is a very cool place to spend the night.

25. Visit my favourite beach in Havre Boucher

I take all Cape Breton visitors to this little community beach. It’s rocky, rarely used, and you can dip your toes in the water.

26. Take in a show at the Shore Club

Hubbards is a small community outside Halifax, but they get some great acts at the Shore Club.

27. Go to the theatre in Parrsborro

Ship’s Company Theatre puts on an annual summer season

28. Visit the lighthouse at Five Islands

29. Watch theatre by the fire at Ross Creek

Ross Creek Centre for the Arts has a summer season of shows, many of which are performed by the light of a fire.

30. Check out the art at the Bread Gallery in Brooklyn

Local artists display their work, alongside delicious baked goods, just outside Windsor.

31. Visit Nova Scotia’s northernmost point

Meat Cove Campground has amazing views – and it’s worth the effort to get there.

32. Tour the canal at St. Peter’s

This National Historic Site is in a tiny village on Cape Breton Island.

33. Hike the Salt Mountain Trail in Whycocomagh

Cape Breton is full of hikes – but this one is less touristy.

34. Visit Lunenburg – but don’t forget Chester

There’s live music at the Playhouse in the summertime.

35. Visit Halifax’s North End to avoid the tourist traps of the waterfront

The North End has changed a lot in 20 years, and is full of cute shops and great restaurants.

Nova Scotia travelers – take your time!

Nova Scotia is one of those places that rewards curiosity. The postcard spots are fine, but the real magic happens when you follow the back roads. Wander into a farmers market, or pull off the highway to check out a trail head you’ve never heard of. Whether you’re after quiet beaches, hidden history, or a plate of something freshly caught, the province has endless ways to surprise you. These are my go-to recommendations as a local. Leave space in your trip to explore, because in Nova Scotia, the detours are usually the best part.

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