Nova Scotia Top Things To See
The provincial capital, Halifax, claims to have the second-largest natural harbour in the world (after Sydney in Australia) and has a long and distinguished history as a naval and military base. Harbour tours are available.
Military history
The Citadel, a star-shaped masonry fortress built in 1856 on the site of a 1749 structure, is one of Canada's most visited National Historic Sites. Dominating Halifax, it is known for its kilted regiment of historical re-enactors, and good views of the city and harbour.
Heritage in Halifax
Other Halifax highlights include the Historic Properties, a redeveloped waterfront area of shops and restaurants; Province House, the birthplace of Canadian democracy in 1819; St Paul's, Canada's oldest Protestant church; the Museum of Natural History; the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic (featuring Titanic exhibits); Pier 21, an excellent museum of immigration; and the Halifax Public Gardens.
The Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo
The world's largest annual indoor show features more than 2000 local and international performers and takes place in Halifax Metro Centre during the first week of July.
Peggy's Cove
Situated in an area known for its rugged and beautiful coastal scenery, Peggy's Cove is famed as the site of Canada's most photographed lighthouse.
Lunenburg
This German settlement was established in 1753 and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The town's beautiful waterfront speaks of a rich history of fishing, shipbuilding and other maritime activities.
Gaelic accent
More evidence of Nova Scotia's close ties with Scotland: street signs in Pugwash are in English and Gaelic and highland games are held annually in Antigonish.
Landscapes and landmarks
Nature lovers should head for Cape Breton Island. While there, visit Cape Breton Highlands National Park for spectacular scenery; the Fortress of Louisbourg, Canada's largest historical restoration; and Baddeck, which is home to the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site and Bell's final resting place.
Bears and bald eagles
You can spot some of the province's most characteristic wildlife in the Provincial Wildlife Park at Shubenacadie; among other creatures, the park shelters moose, bears, cougars, coyotes and bald eagles (of which it has a particularly high population).
See Contact Addresses for further tourist information.
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