Fun Friday
Good Morning, we have made it through another week and now it's time to go on our weekly Friday adventure. Today we are going to go on another adventure this time we are going to go visit the province of Nova Scotia
1.) Halifax Public Gardens Welcome to Halifax’s greatest natural and national treasure and most visited site in Halifax, Nova Scotia– a timeless oasis in an ever changing world. A beautiful Victorian-inspired garden open to the public since 1867. 16 acres in the Victorian Gardenesque style; Scroll beds shaped in an E for the reigning monarch, Serpentine beds, raised carpet beds and a profusion of colour through the artistry of our Gardeners. The Victorian Gardens were all about symmetry and there is grand harmony throughout. The majestic trees, 240 varieties, nurture and shelter and many are original. The Victorians were all about education and introduced many new species to Nova Scotia. Check our What's Blooming on our website to discover the highlights of each month. Horticultural Hall, circa 1837, the original meeting place of the Nova Scotia Horticultural Society houses a coffee shop
2.) Peggy's Cove Lighthouse This popular lighthouse while in Nova Scotia. It's about 40 minutes from Halifax with a scenic drive. Peggy's Cove is a beautiful lighthouse that sits on huge rocks. The Atlantic Ocean pounds the rocks, and signs do warn you that people have died. A viewing platform is available. A sidewalk also takes you directly to the lighthouse. Plenty of parking is available.
3.) Halifax Citadel National Historic Site hours of operation are 9-5pm Experience an exciting part of Canada's history by visiting this 19th-century fort with a sweeping view of downtown Halifax. Between May and October, the Citadel is brought to life by two historic regiments of the British Army - the pageantry of the 78th Highlanders and the precision of the Royal Artillery thrill visitors daily with live re-enactments. The skirl of the bagpipes mixes with the crack of a rifle and the assembly of recruits for the next foot drill. There's no shortage of authentic experiences to view and participate in! Kids will love the Xplorers Program - an activity book just for them. When the sun sets, it's time to experience the other side of the Citadel - join the Halifax Citadel Ghost Tour and experience the dark and eerie lore from the early 1800's. Tours start mid-July and run select Friday and Saturday nights starting at 8:30pm until the end of October. Between Nov. to April, all exhibits and rooms are closed but noon gun fires daily.
4.) Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site Welcome to the Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site, a magical place on the edge of a continent where past and present come together to celebrate Canada’s diverse heritage. Please note that we have three seasons throughout the year:
Low season: Opportunities to experience the Fortress of Louisbourg's quiet streets during the low season allow visitors to imagine life in the toughest of conditions almost 300 years ago. While there are no services available, a low season visit may provide the best opportunity for visitors to experience the stillness of the streets, take in the beauty of the exterior architecture of the buildings, or simply enjoy the treasures that life's quietest moments may bring. For a new way to experience the site in the low season, try our Explora app. Through sound, video, photos, quizzes and text, you will hold stories about Louisbourg in your hands as you walk through both the reconstructed town and the fortress's ruins. Explora is available to download for free at the App Store and through Google Play.
Shoulder season- For those seeking quiet opportunities and some on-site services, visiting during the shoulder season is recommended. Visitors have the opportunity to enjoy an inspiring setting with beautiful visuals as they stand on our history-laden grounds. Several buildings with exhibits are open for you to discover. Explore the site on your own or embark on an Explora tour of the grounds. To enhance your visit you may purchase a guided tour or participate in the Time Travel program. Accessible guided tours are available as well. We recommend reserving a place on these tours in advance.
By the end of June, the site will begin to fill with costumed interpreters as we ramp up for peak season. After Labour Day, the Fortress of Louisbourg winds down once again with costumed animators interpreting some buildings into September. No matter the season, be sure to find out from reception what activities and experiences may be on offer that day.
Peak Season - Peak season brings a different kind of magic on-site as costumed people add life to the streets and the homes. A foggy day cloaks the site in mystery and creates scenes and images not to be forgotten. A cold day with wind and rain may draw visitors to the warmth of a welcoming fire or to the cozy inn for a warming bowl of soup. A hot day shows the town and its various gardens at their brightest. On summer feast days colour and pageantry break the routine of daily life as the townspeople promenade in their finery. Chores are the order of the day on summer and fall mornings. With the rooster's crow comes bread from the ovens that supplies both soldiers and hungry visitors.
Louisbourg's inhabitants are happy to share their stories, and can be found working the forge, tending the gardens and running the kitchens. The beat of drums and the chime of the garrison clock order the soldiers' day. The sound of a cannon marks midday. You can even fire a cannon or musket yourself by taking part in our 'Have a Blast' or 'Have a Ball' programs. Music might be heard from a waterfront tavern. Children play games in the streets, while the sentry at the gate challenges those who wish to enter the walled town. A public punishment gathers spectators. Sheep run through the streets, called home by the stable hand. Each hour offers something unique and real. During the peak season you can immerse yourself in an 18th century dining experience, available daily, at the Hotel de la Marine and Grandchamp House. For those who prefer a modern experience L'Epee Royale Cafe offers a cozy stop for hot and cold beverages and a variety of pastries. Groups can pre-arrange a dining experience by calling 902-733-3552. The daily fare varies with the season. Please check in advance for menu options and our ability to accommodate any special dietary requirements. Hours of Operation Low season: October 11, 2016 - May 21, 2017) Open Monday to Friday (except statutory holidays) 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Shoulder Season: May 22 2017 to June 30 2017 and September 5 2017 to October 9, 2017 Open 7 days per week 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Peak Season: July 1 - September 4 Open 7 days per week 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Dining Establishment Hours of Operation
Grandchamp House Lower class (Less formal dining) July 1 - August 25 (Doors open at 10:30 a.m.)
Hotel de la Marine Upper class (More formal dining) July 1 - August 25 (Doors open at 11 a.m.) Hotel de la Marine Lower class
(Less formal dining) August 26 - October 9 2017 (Doors open at 10:30 a.m.) L'Epee Royale Cafe May 22 - October 9 2017 (Doors open at 10 a.m.) When the Fortress of Louisbourg is in low season, programs and services are provided through the Fortress Louisbourg Association after-hours programs. Whether it's the bustling street or the solitude of the shore, a visit to the Fortress of Louisbourg offers many opportunities for memorable experiences.
5.) Maritime Museum of the Atlantic hours of operation are Wed-Mon from 9:30-5:30pm and Tuesday from 9:30-8pm Immerse yourself in the rich marine history depicted by this museum's vast collection from binnacles and buoys to anchors and armaments.
6.) Cape Breton Highlands National Park Treasures abound throughout the headlands and rugged cliffs of Cape Breton Highlands with its abundant wildlife, spectacular scenery and human history dating back to the last Ice Age.
7.) Cabot Trail One of the most magnificent loop drives in North America treats visitors to the spectacular scenery of the Cape Breton Highlands.
8.) Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 hours of operation are 9:30-5:30pm The Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 is located in the national historic site at the Halifax seaport where nearly one million immigrants landed in Canada from 1928 to 1971. Today, as Canada’s sixth national museum, we share the ongoing story of immigration to Canada—past to present, and coast to coast. Our exhibits immerse visitors in the immigration experience and allow for a deeper understanding of how newcomers shape our country. Our staff and collections provide opportunities for visitors to discover the countless journeys to Canada and find their own family’s connection to the story. Countless Journeys. One Canada.
9.) Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site hours of operation are 9-5pm This museum chronicles the life and career of Alexander Graham Bell with its rich collection of artifacts and documents accumulated by Dr. Bell and his family during their time in Nova Scotia
10.) Highland Village Experience the lifestyle of the Scots in Nova Scotia at the Village's Outdoor Pioneer Museum or look up your Cape Breton roots at the Genealogy and Family History Centre. The Highland Village is situated on a beautiful site overlooking the Bras d'Or Lakes and is open from May to mid October.
11.) Annapolis Royal Historic Gardens hours of operation are 9-5pm ESCAPE from the hectic pace of everyday life with a visit to Annapolis Royal’s beautiful Historic Gardens!In a beautiful setting overlooking a tidal river valley, the 17 acre Historic Gardens is a premiere Nova Scotia attraction showcasing gardening methods, designs and materials representing more than four hundred years of local history. Highlights include a Rose collection of more than 270 cultivars, an Acadian House representing pre-deportation 1671 time period, and much more…
12.) Cape Forchu Lighthouse Welcome to Cape Forchu, a Light Like No Other. This spectacular and unique "apple core" lighthouse is the second most photographed lighthouse in Nova Scotia and located just 10 minutes outside the Town of Yarmouth. The Cape has been welcoming visitors since 1604, when Samuel de Champlain landed and named the area "Cap Forchu," meaning "Forked tongue of land."
13.) Bluenose II Nova Scotia's Sailing Ambassador, Bluenose II, is an exact replica of Bluenose -- the famed schooner and undefeated champion in the International Fisherman's Races. Bluenose II is available for deck tours, and harbour sails twice daily when in port. Please check our schedule for more information .
14.) Port-Royal National Historic Site hours of operation are 9-5pm Explore one of the earliest French settlements in North America, the Habitation at Port-Royal. Canada's first major historical reconstruction, now a National Historic Site. Samuel de Champlain once called this place 'the most suitable and pleasant for a settlement that we had seen'. Learn how the French colonists kept up their spirits with the Order of Good Cheer and about their crucial relationships forged with the Mi'kmaw.
15.) Cape Breton Miners' Museum Historical recreation of the original coal mining village attached to a visitor center built around the mine entrance. Coal was a big part of Sydney history and this museum tells the story and allows you to experience the mine. Our visit was with one of the mine veterans and it gave us a real sense of what it was like in the mine. You only go a short way out and under the water so I cannot imagine what it was like to go miles into these tunnels.
16.) HMCS Sackville HMCS SACKVILLE, is a National Historic Site on the historic Halifax waterfront & The Last Corvette. Step aboard the 205-foot Sackville and walk back in time! Restored to her wartime configuration, the ship includes exhibits, artifacts, and a memorial dedicated to those who served during the Battle of the Atlantic, and made the ultimate sacrifice. When onboard, guests can self-tour with the audio portals located throughout the ship, or take a guided tour in the summer months. Guests can see the: main gun deck forward, wheelhouse, open bridge, quarterdeck, tiller flats, Chiefs & Petty Officers mess, engine and boiler rooms, ratings messes, the Captain’s Cabin, and much more! Admission Fee by donation, suggested amount $5 children $10 adults.
17.) Deep Sky Eye Observatory hours of operation are 7pm-12am Have you seen the Milky Way? The Rings of Saturn? The spiral arms of distant galaxies? Come and discover the night sky the way it was meant to be seen from the dark skies of Quinan, NS. Located only 24 minutes from Yarmouth NS in North America's first certified Starlight Tourist Destination.
18.) Le Village Historique Acadien de la Nouvelle-Ecosse Situated on a beautiful 17-acre site overlooking Pubnico harbour, Le Village historique acadien de la Nouvelle-Écosse (Historical Acadian Village of Nova Scotia) invites you to step back in time and discover the heart, life and work of the Acadians in the early 1900s.
19.) Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo Experience Nova Scotia's premier summer spectacle! Marching bands, acrobats, dancers, pipes and drums, and much more. It’s fun for the whole family and kids are free! June 30-July 3, 2023.
20.) Fort Anne National Historic Site Explore Canada's first National Historic Site presenting a 3,000 year old story that weaves together the lives of the Mi'kmaq, French, Scots, British and Acadian peoples. A meeting place for cultures and a focal pint for historic power struggles and treaty negotiations, Fort Anne played a key role in the forces and events that shaped this nation. Immerse yourself in the Officers' Quarters Museum and another era when Scottish, French and English settlers and soldiers took turns calling this place home. Learn how the Mi'kmaq, Acadians and African Nova Scotians played a role in shaping one of North America's most contested areas. Visitors are invited to explore the grounds and discover the star shaped earthwork fortification. Fort is an outstanding example of a Vauban fortification.
21.) Sherbrooke Village Sherbrooke Village is Nova Scotia’s largest Provincial Museum with 25 heritage buildings brought to life by costumed interpreters. In the 1860s, timber tall ships and gold ruled life along the St. Mary’s River, turning the community of Sherbrooke into a prosperous boom town. Today, the picturesque village still stands proud, just as it did more than 100 years ago. At Sherbrooke Village, every day is a trip back in time as Nova Scotia’s 19th century heritage is brought to life by the blacksmiths, potters, weavers, wood turners and printers. Get dressed up and “Step Into 1867” to become a part of the Village story as an explorer and have your photo taken at Canada’s only commercial Ambrotype glass photo studio. Our activities, learning programs, workshops for children and adults, and schedule of special events make it easy to get your hands on history all summer long! Visit Village Treasures and Gifts for that special item or McDaniels's Tea Room and Restaurant.
22.) Sydney Mines Heritage Museum and Fossil Centre hours of operation are Tuesday-Sat 9-5pm This museum provides a wonderful opportunity to explore mining with a side order of fossils thrown in for good measure. The guides were informed and enthusiastic totally worth the visit
23.) St. Paul Island Museum & Lighthouse hours of operation are Tue-Sun 10-5pm Step back into time to when seamen and vessels relied on lighthouses for navigation. Climb the stairs in Canada's first heritage lighthouse and take a guided tour in the adjacent century old house now serving as a place to hold and maintain our historical treasures of St. Paul Island and the many shipwrecks surrounding it.
24.) Hector Heritage Quay hours of operation are 10-4pm The Hector Heritage Quay is home to the full size replica Ship Hector--the first ship to bring emigrants directly from Scotland to Nova Scotia in 1773. The site consists of an Interpretive Centre telling the story of the Hector settlers, a blacksmith shop, rigging room and carpenters shop. Visitors are able to step on board the ship and experience the voyage of these early settlers.
25.) W. Laurence Sweeney Fisheries Museum Step across the threshold and back in time at the W. Laurence Sweeney Fisheries Museum. Explore the Sweeney marine heritage through unique exhibits: a simulation of a traditional fishing wharf, complete with fishing, processing and ship repair sheds, wharf decks and even a coastal freighter.
26.) Springhill Miners' Museum hours of operation are 9-5pm Just go and do the underground tour. You will not be disappointed. Above ground tour is also very interestingImportant and fascinating historical experience with a combination of the actual equipment used by the miners and newspaper accounts of the time when the deadly explosions and bumps happened. The highlight was going 300 feet underground down one of the mine shafts to see and feel what the miners worked in. Leaves one with a feeling of admiration for those men.
27.) Black Loyalist Heritage Center hours of operation are weekdays 9:30-4pm The home of the largest free black settlement in the 1780’s where people voted with their feet for freedom. This unique historical site is nestled in beautiful Birchtown Bay on the western shores of Shelburne Harbour, the third largest natural harbour in the world. It’s a history few in the region know much about. Come and enjoy a guided tour, search for your ancestral roots and learn about these courageous Nova Scotians. Come and enjoy a guided tour, search for your ancestral roots, and learn about the Black Loyalists inside our interpretive centre. Outside, explore our two-acre property that includes historic buildings, a walking trail and National monument. Depending on the weather, bring a lunch to enjoy at one of our picnic benches. There is lots to see and do, so be prepared to spend some time with us.
28.) Shearwater Aviation Museum hours of operation are weekdays 8:30-4:30pm I discovered a hidden gem near Halifax International Airport when I found out that the museum there has a flight simulator that you can book for 30 or 60 minutes. I have always dreamed of trying a flight simulator and yesterday I finally did. It was amazing! The museum also has many planes to see, from a replica of the Silver Dart to fighter jets, rescue aircraft, helicopters, and old Air Canada planes. You can even enter some of the cockpits and see the engines. It is a great spot for a family who loves aviation. There are two buildings full of planes to explore. I highly recommend visiting this museum if you get a chance!
29.) Discovery Center hours of operation are Wed-Sun 9-4pm The Discovery Center is now open in its brand new state-of-the-art 40,000 sq. ft. facility located at 1215 Lower Water Street, a short walk from the beautiful Halifax Waterfront. Featuring four floors of interactive, learning experiences including an Innovation Lab and Featured Exhibit Gallery that invites traveling exhibits 3-4 times a year. The new Discovery Centre facilitates its not-for-profit mission to bring STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) to life through fun, interactive learning experiences to inspire the curious minds of all ages.
30.) A Walk Through Time Museum hours of operation are 10-5pm A newly opened 10,000 square foot museum displaying artifacts such as carriages, sleighs and horse drawn farm equipment. Featuring a "general store" displaying items priced as in early 1900's. Rooms such as the dining room, parlor, bedroom and early kitchen are set up. Also a large 'tool' room containing many, many items used by our ancestors. Explore your past to appreciate your present! Open June 1 through September 30. We are located in the beautiful village of Scotsburn, just 10 minutes from the historical town of Pictou, NS.
With so much history packed into this providence and over 400 different things to do you are sure to find something around every corner. There are theaters, lighthouses, beaches and many other things you can check out.
I hope that you have enjoyed this week's tour and come back next week for another amazing adventure. Remember to always be kind as it costs nothing and if you see someone without a smile stop and give them yours a smile is contagious and you never know whose life you could save simply by being kind and when it comes to kindness sprinkle it everywhere the world needs more of it.
Written by: BeautifulChaos318
