Harbor Highlights: Sydney City Tour

Step back in time at the Fort Petrie Military Museum, one of Cape Breton’s hidden gems preserving Canada's coastal defense history. Originally built during World War I and actively used through World War II, Fort Petrie served as a strategic lookout and gun battery guarding the entrance to Sydney Harbour.
Explore authentic underground bunkers, observation towers, and displays filled with wartime memorabilia, including vintage uniforms, weapons, medals, and photographs. Knowledgeable volunteers bring history to life with stories of Cape Breton’s role in global conflict and local efforts to protect Canada's coastlines.
Perfect for history buffs, families, and curious travelers, Fort Petrie offers an unforgettable and educational experience with stunning ocean views from its clifftop location.

Highlights:

Walk inside original WWII bunkers and lookout towers

View artifacts from both World Wars

Learn about Cape Breton’s coastal defense history

Family-friendly and operated by volunteers

Perched on the edge of Cape Breton’s rugged coastline, Low Point Lighthouse (also known as Flat Point Light) is one of Nova Scotia’s most historic and scenic beacons. Built in 1832, it stands as the easternmost lighthouse on Cape Breton Island and has guided countless mariners through the entrance of Sydney Harbour for nearly two centuries.

This striking red-and-white octagonal tower offers panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, rocky shorelines, and passing ships. It’s a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path spot perfect for photography, coastal walks, or simply soaking in the maritime atmosphere.

Though currently not open for interior tours, the grounds are accessible and a popular stop on Cape Breton’s coastal driving routes.

Highlights:

Oldest surviving lighthouse in the Sydney area

Stunning views of sea cliffs, wildlife, and ocean swells

Historic significance to local maritime and coal mining history

Quiet, uncrowded location ideal for sightseeing and photos

Open Hearth Park is a remarkable urban green space built on the former site of Sydney’s steel plant — once one of the most heavily industrialized areas in Canada. Today, it’s a shining example of environmental renewal, offering locals and visitors a vibrant and peaceful place to explore, play, and connect with nature.

The park features beautifully landscaped walking and biking trails, scenic picnic areas, sports fields, and interpretive signs that honor the region’s industrial and community history. A highlight is the Muggah Creek watershed, now transformed into a clean, tranquil area for wildlife and reflection.

Perfect for families, joggers, cyclists, and history buffs, Open Hearth Park is a symbol of Sydney’s resilience and forward-thinking spirit.

Wentworth Park is a peaceful green oasis nestled in the heart of Sydney, Nova Scotia — a perfect spot for relaxation, light recreation, and connecting with nature. With shaded walking paths, a charming brook, lush grassy areas, and towering trees, this community park offers a refreshing escape from the bustle of town life.

It’s especially popular with families, pet owners, joggers, and those looking for a quiet space to picnic or read a book. The park also features benches, open lawns, and walking trails that connect to surrounding neighborhoods.

Wentworth Park is a local favorite and a lovely addition to any downtown stroll or Sydney city tour.

Polar Bear Beach is a small but unique spot along the coast of Sydney, Cape Breton. It’s most famous for the annual New Year’s Day Polar Bear Swim, where brave locals and visitors plunge into the icy Atlantic waters to celebrate the start of the year. Throughout the year, the beach offers beautiful ocean views, fresh sea air, and a glimpse into Sydney’s coastal charm. While it’s not a typical swimming beach, it’s a fun and memorable stop—especially if you visit during the winter tradition that gave the beach its name.