Kid-friendly Halifax is one of our favourite destinations for family fun in Atlantic Canada. Trust us, there are so many exciting things to do in this charming coastal city that both you and your kids will absolutely love!

Not sure where to start your Halifax adventure? No worries! We’ve got you covered with our guide below, where we’ll share the best things to do in Halifax with your kiddos!

Explore the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic

Website: https://maritimemuseum.novascotia.ca/ 

Address: 1675 Lower Water St, Halifax,

Contact details: +1 902-424-7490

Operating hours:

• Monday – Closed
• Tuesday – 9:30 AM to 8 PM
• Wednesday to Sunday – 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM

The Maritime Museum of the Atlantic is a must-see for kids. This museum is dedicated to Nova Scotia’s seafaring history and culture.

There are tons of cool things to see, like model ships, artefacts from famous shipwrecks, and hands-on exhibits that the little ones will love. Make sure to show them the Tidal Wave Tank; it’s a great way to learn about how the Bay of Fundy has the world’s highest tides!

And the fun doesn’t stop there—the museum has loads of activities for kids, like crafts, storytelling, and scavenger hunts. They can even dress up like pirates, explore a replica pirate ship, and walk the plank!

With so many interactive and educational things to do, the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic is definitely one of the best spots in Halifax for a family day out. Trust us, your mini sailors will have a blast learning about Nova Scotia’s maritime heritage!

Local Tip: On Sundays, they offer free admission for families, so you can take your time exploring without worrying about the cost.

Visit the Halifax Public Gardens

Website: http://www.halifaxpublicgardens.ca/ 

Address: Spring Garden Rd. &, Summer St, Halifax

Contact details: +1 902-456-4552

Operating hours:​

• Monday to Sunday – 8 AM to 7 PM

The Halifax Public Gardens is a must-see spot, especially if you have little ones in tow. This 16-hectare urban park in the heart of downtown has something for everyone, and it’s absolutely beautiful.

Your little ones will go nuts for the duck pond, where they can feed the ducks and even spot some turtles catching some sun on logs. And if you want a fun way to explore the gardens without tiring out those tiny legs, hop on a horse and carriage ride!

You’ll also find gorgeous flowers like tulips, daffodils, and roses throughout the gardens. So, why not have the kids do a scavenger hunt to find their favourites? 

Plus, with playgrounds, walking trails, and tons of open green space, the Public Gardens is an awesome place for kids to run, play, and enjoy the great outdoors. No wonder it’s considered one of the finest Victorian gardens in North America. 

Local Tip:  In summer, pack a picnic and catch one of the free outdoor concerts. Or rent a paddle boat and take a spin around the pond.

Check out the Discovery Center

Website:  http://thediscoverycentre.ca/ 

Address: 1215 Lower Water St, Halifax

Contact details: +1 902-492-4422

Operating hours:​

• Monday and Tuesday – Closed
• Wednesday to Sunday – 9 AM to 4 PM

The Discovery Center is another must-see for kids of all ages. This hands-on science centre has over 200 interactive exhibits relating to topics like physics, biology, and psychology. Some of the coolest things you’ll find there include:

• A massive three-story high giant pendulum that shows off the earth’s rotation.
• An illusion tunnel that’ll totally mess with your senses.
• A giant bubble-making station where kids can make bubbles as big as they are!
• A flight simulator that lets you feel like you’re piloting a plane or spaceship.

With so many fun and educational activities, your little explorers will have a blast learning about how the world works while getting some exercise for their minds and bodies. 

Plus, your admission to the Discovery Center also gets you access to their outdoor science park, which has over 30 acres of trails, gardens, and playgrounds right along the Halifax waterfront. How cool is that?

See a show at Neptune Theater

Website: https://www.neptunetheatre.com/ 

Address: 1593 Argyle St, Halifax 

Contact details: +1 902-429-7070

The Neptune Theater is Halifax’s largest performing arts centre. This historic venue has been entertaining audiences for over 50 years and offers a great opportunity to enjoy some live performances with your little ones.

The Neptune Theatre puts on a variety of shows throughout the year, including some family-friendly productions that are perfect for kids.  Plus, the theatre often showcases local talent, so you’ll get a taste of the amazing performers that call Halifax home.

Not only are the shows super fun, but the theatre itself is a real gem. It’s been beautifully restored, keeping its historic charm while adding modern touches for a comfortable and enjoyable experience. 

Local Tip: After the final curtain call, you can stick around to meet the cast! The actors are always happy to sign autographs and take photos with their youngest fans.

​Explore Point Pleasant Park

Website: https://www.halifax.ca/parks-recreation/parks-trails-gardens/parks-outdoor-spaces/point-pleasant-park 

Address: 5530 Point Pleasant Dr, Halifax

Contact details: +1 902-490-4700

Operating hours:​

• Monday to Sunday – 5 AM to 10 PM

Point Pleasant Park is a popular urban park located on the Halifax peninsula.This beautiful park has everything you need for a fun-filled day with the little ones, and it’s a favourite spot for locals and visitors alike.

With over 10 km of trails perfect for walking or biking, cool historical sites like the Prince of Wales Tower and Halifax Citadel, and loads of cute ducks, swans, and other critters hanging out by the ponds and lakes, there’s something for everyone. 

Oh, and don’t forget to pack a picnic, let the kiddos loose on the playgrounds (yep, there’s even a wheelchair-accessible one), and maybe even rent some paddle boats, canoes, or kayaks for a good time splashing on the Chain of Lakes!

It’s a great opportunity to teach your kids about Halifax’s history while enjoying the great outdoors. Plus, keep an eye out for the park’s friendly squirrels – they’re always a hit with the little ones!

Local Tip: Make sure to bring some birdseed or peanuts to feed the friendly chickadees and squirrels—they’ll eat right out of your hand!

​Take a Halifax Harbor Hopper Tour

Website: https://www.harbourhopper.com/ 

Address: 5050 Salter St, Halifax

Contact details: +1 902-420-1015

Operating hours:​

• Monday to Wednesday – 12 PM to 3 PM
• Thursday to Sunday – 11 AM to 5:30 PM

Prices:

• Adult –  $45
• Senior – $40.65
• Youth – $25.70
• Child – $16
• Family – $106

One of the best ways to see Halifax harbour with kids is aboard an amphibious Harbor Hopper tour. These one-hour tours start at the Halifax waterfront and take you through downtown streets before making a big splash into the harbour. 

Once you’re cruising in the water, the captain will show you some awesome sights like the Halifax Citadel, Georges Island, and McNabs Island. You’ll get to learn all about Halifax’s history as a major port city and military base, which is pretty interesting.

The best part is that it’s a hop-on hop-off tour, so you can get off at any stop and hop back on later if your little ones need a break. It’s perfect for keeping everyone happy and entertained.

Harbor Hoppers run from May through October, with tours leaving every 30 minutes. You can grab tickets on their website or at the Halifax Waterfront.

Local Tip: Try to snag a seat near the back of the Hopper for the best view when you splash into the harbour!

Cool off at the Halifax Spryfield Wave Pool

Website: https://www.halifax.ca/parks-recreation/programs-activities/recreation-centres-your-community/captain-william-spry 

Address: 16 Sussex St, Halifax

Contact details: +1 902-477-7665

Operating hours:​

• Monday to Friday – 6:30 AM to 9 PM
• Saturday and Sunday – 8:30 AM to 8:30 PM

The Halifax Wave Pool is not your average swimming pool—it’s got a giant wave machine that creates a beach-like experience. Your kids will love splashing around in the waves, and there’s even a water slide for some extra excitement.

Plus, there’s a shallow area for the little ones to play safely. When you’re ready for a break from the water, the pool area also has a hot tub and a fitness centre if you want to get a little exercise.

And if you get hungry, there’s a snack bar on site to keep everyone fueled up for more fun. It’s indeed a fantastic spot for kids and adults alike to enjoy some water fun.

Local Tip: Visit during the weekdays or early mornings on weekends to avoid the crowds and have more space to splash around!

​Go to Cow’s Ice Cream

Website: http://cows.ca/ 

Address: 1549 Lower Water St, Halifax

Contact details: +1 902-835-3584

Operating hours:​

• Monday to Sunday – 11 AM to 6 PM

No trip to Halifax is complete without a visit to Cow’s Ice Cream. This iconic Nova Scotia creamery has been churning out delicious homemade ice cream since 1983.

With over 32 flavours that change daily, you’re sure to find something to please every member of the family. Some of the kid-friendly favourites include:

• Bubblegum is bursting with flavour, just like gum.
• Cookies and Cream: crunchy cookie pieces swirled in creamy vanilla
• Superman is a bright blue sweet treat with flavours of blueberry and vanilla.

The shop itself is a treat for the eyes with its retro 1950s decor. The staff is always friendly and willing to give out samples so you can try before you buy.

They even have lactose-free and vegan options with sorbets and fruit-based treats. So it’s really a fantastic spot for kids and adults alike to enjoy some seriously good ice cream.

Local Tip: Try their signature flavour, Gooey Mooey—it’s a crowd-pleaser, and you won’t be disappointed!

Enjoy at Atlantic Splash Adventure

Website: http://www.splashadventure.ca/ 

Address: 1200 Lucasville Rd, Hammonds Plains, NS

Contact details: +1 902-865-1025

Operating hours:​

• Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 6 PM

Prices:

• Go Kart Tickets – $7 for 5 Minutes
• Weekdays price – $49.95
• Weekende price – $74.95

Atlantic Splash Adventure water park is perfect for cooling off on a hot summer day with the kids. With over 25 waterslides and attractions, there’s something for all ages.

Your little ones will have a blast in the giant wave pool, lazy river, and splash pad. And for the bigger kids and adrenaline junkies, don’t miss the six-story-high waterslides like the Atlantic Screamer or Canyon Cliffs.

The whole family can join in on the fun and ride together down the Atlantic Splash Mountain log ride. And if you need a break from all the water action, there’s mini golf, bumper boats, and arcade games to keep everyone entertained.

You can easily spend the whole day enjoying everything the park has to offer, with picnic areas, locker rentals, tube rentals, and snack spots all on site. 

Local Tip: The park is open from June through September, so plan your visit during the peak of summer for the most fun in the sun.

Take a bike stroll along the Halifax Waterfront 

Website: https://developns.ca/visit/halifax/ 

Address: Lower Water St, Halifax, NS

Contact details: +1 902-229-2628

Operating hours:​

• Monday to Sunday – Open 24 hours

The Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk stretches for about 4 km (2.5 miles) along the harbour, so you and your kiddos can take your time pedalling and checking out all the cool sights. You’ll pass by awesome attractions like the Historic Properties, and Pier 21.

Your kids will have a blast watching the boats in the harbour, and they might even spot some seals or birds. Plus, the boardwalk is super family-friendly, with loads of space for the little ones to ride safely.

One of the best parts of biking along the boardwalk is stopping for a bite to eat or a sweet treat at one of the many local shops and eateries. 

You can refuel with some delicious fish and chips or indulge in some ice cream while you take in the views of the waterfront.

Local Tip: Don’t forget to get a picture with the iconic Wave sculpture! 

Enjoy a wagon rides at Hatfield Farm

Website: https://hatfieldfarm.ca/ 

Address: 1840 Hammonds Plains Rd, NS

Contact details: +1 902-835-5676

Operating hours:​

• Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM
• Tuesday – Closed

Hop aboard a cosy, old-fashioned wagon pulled by a team of gentle horses as you ride through the picturesque countryside! Your kids will love the excitement of riding in a real wagon while enjoying the sights and sounds of nature.

But the fun doesn’t stop with the wagon ride! Hatfield Farm is also home to a petting zoo, a playground, and even a zip line for the more adventurous!

Local Tip: Make sure to pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of their scenic picnic areas—it’s the perfect way to relax and refuel after your wagon ride adventure!

Take a ferry ride at Halifax Transit

Website: https://www.halifax.ca/transportation/halifax-transit/ferry-service 

Contact details: +1 902-490-6999

Prices:

• Adults – $2.75 
• Youth/Seniors – $2
• Kids under 12 – Free

One of the most enjoyable ways to see Halifax’s harbour is on a ferry ride. Halifax Transit operates ferries between Halifax and Dartmouth that provide scenic views of the city skyline, Citadel Hill, George’s Island and McNabs Island. 

Catch a ferry that runs every 15-30 minutes for a fun, hour-long round trip ride your kids will love. With both indoor and outdoor seating options, you can either bask in the sun or stay warm inside, depending on the weather. 

Conveniently docking in downtown Halifax and Dartmouth, the ferries are easy to access and allow you to continue exploring once you reach the other side.

A ferry ride is a perfect, budget-friendly activity for families visiting Halifax. Your kiddos will have a blast on this maritime adventure and enjoy the beautiful views of the city. 

Local Tip: Ride the ferry during sunset for a stunning view of the Halifax skyline as it lights up at dusk.

Go skating at Emera Oval

Website:  https://www.halifax.ca/recreation/facilities-fields/emera-oval 

Address: 5775 Cogswell St, Halifax

Contact details: +1 902-490-2347

Operating hours:​

• Monday to Friday – 11 AM to 9 PM
• Saturday and Sunday – 12 PM to 9 PM

Emera Oval is an amazing outdoor skating rink that’s just perfect for families, and it’s a super fun way to enjoy the outdoors while getting some exercise. 

It is open during the winter months for ice skating, and in the summer, it transforms into a roller-skating and rollerblading venue. 

The best part? Skating at Emera Oval is super convenient because they offer free gear rentals!

And don’t worry if you’re new to skating—they’ve got plenty of friendly staff around to help you get started and make sure you have a safe and enjoyable experience. So, go ahead and give it a try—you won’t regret it!

Local Tip: Check their schedule for themed skate nights and special events, like family skate sessions or DJ skate nights, to make your visit even more exciting!