Halifax Like a Local Darkside Walking Tour

Halifax , Canada

Halifax Like a Local Darkside Walking Tour

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(1 reviews)

2h - 2h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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About this experience

Delve into Halifax's hidden history on this engaging walking tour, where tales of bootleggers and privateers come to life. Led by Jimmy Dalling, a local storyteller with deep roots in Nova Scotia, uncover the secrets that shaped the city beyond the tourist spots. Over 1.5 to 2.5 hours, explore off-the-beaten-path locations and hear stories of contraband shipwrecks and harbor smuggling. This intimate tour is designed for small groups, ensuring a personal experience filled with the messy, fascinating history of Halifax.

- Private tour ensures a personal touch and time to ask questions
- Discover Halifax's hidden history with a local expert guide
- 1.5 to 2.5-hour intimate walking tours and ferry rides
- Hear tales of bootleggers, privateers, and old scandals
- Discover the best Halifax has to offer efficiently with an expert

Available options

Halifax Like a Local Darkside Walking Tour

What's included

We take the longest consistently operating salt water ferry in North America - the world's cheapest ocean cruise!

Detailed itinerary

We'll pass and touch on the history of the islands in the harbour, learn more about the harbour, it's history for both settlers and Mi'kmaq as well as why the opposite side of the harbour is called 'The Darkside'.

Stop 2 Pass by

Features excellent exhibits on the Titanic, the Halifax Explosion and age of Sail - all to be explored on your walk

The last of the flower class corvettes. You'll learn how it was used and a story about a family member who served aboard her.

Stop 4

The oldest continuously operating salt water ferry in North America. Learn about the ferries history, the harbour bridges and how love and intrigue led to a curse that lasted over hundred years.

Here we'll go deeper into some of the exceptional stories that have shaped Halifax and Dartmouth

Stop 6

We'll travel back aboard the ferry, learn the names and stories behind the current ferries as well as the unruly origins of some of Canada's biggest institutions.

Stop 7

Marvel at the story of the first Canadian Separatist, the origins of freedom of the press, duals and how Nova Scotia was the first to experience 'the great contradiction'.

We'll also explore a hidden architectural gem from the gilded age.

Stop 8

The oldest building in Halifax has a couple of remarkable secrets to share. Learn about parade square, the old morgue and the story of the Old Town Clock.

Stories of adventure while the spire was being refurbished.

Oldest cemetery in Halifax, stories about the last public hanging, the monument and a personal connection.

Stop 11 Pass by

The origins of how everything went wrong, turned around and backwards

Welcome to Halifax, you're home.

What's not included

We typically stop for coffee and a snack. Your guide will have bottles of water but they are fuelled by caffeine and love it when you buy them a coffee!

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

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Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

Please go to the north end of Pier 20 or south end of the boardwalk behind the Discovery Centre and look for the guid with the grey hat that says "Tour Guide".

About Halifax

Halifax, the capital of Nova Scotia, is a vibrant coastal city known for its rich maritime history, stunning waterfront, and warm local culture. With its picturesque harbors, historic sites, and lively arts scene, Halifax offers a unique blend of urban and maritime experiences.

Top Attractions

Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk

The Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk is a vibrant, 4 km (2.5 miles) long pedestrian promenade along the harbor, offering shops, restaurants, and scenic views.

Waterfront 2-4 hours Free to explore, attractions vary

Peggy's Cove

Peggy's Cove is a picturesque fishing village known for its iconic lighthouse and stunning coastal scenery.

Natural 2-3 hours Free to explore, parking fee: $3.00 CAD

Citadel Hill National Historic Site

Citadel Hill is a star-shaped fortress that played a significant role in Halifax's defense. It offers guided tours, reenactments, and panoramic views of the city.

Historical 2-3 hours Adult: $13.00 CAD, Youth: $7.50 CAD, Children under 6: Free

Halifax Public Gardens

The Halifax Public Gardens is a beautiful Victorian-style garden featuring a variety of flora, walking paths, and a bandstand for summer concerts.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Maritime Museum of the Atlantic

The Maritime Museum of the Atlantic showcases the rich maritime history of the region, including exhibits on the Titanic, the Halifax Explosion, and local fishing communities.

Museum 2-3 hours Adult: $12.00 CAD, Youth: $6.00 CAD, Children under 5: Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Seafood Chowder

A creamy, rich soup made with fresh local seafood, potatoes, and vegetables.

Soup Contains dairy, seafood

Donair

A Halifax specialty featuring spiced beef, onions, and sweet donair sauce served in pita bread.

Main Course Contains beef, gluten

Lobster Roll

A buttered bun filled with fresh lobster meat, often served with lemon and butter.

Sandwich Contains seafood, butter

Popular Activities

Hiking Kayaking Whale watching Spa treatments Waterfront dining Beach lounging Museum visits Art gallery tours

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather, outdoor festivals, and vibrant waterfront activities. Expect crowded attractions and higher prices.

15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: English, French
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Canadian Dollar (CAD)

Time Zone

GMT-4 (Atlantic Standard Time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Halifax is generally a safe city with a low crime rate. However, as with any urban area, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure your safety.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services.
• Be cautious when using ATMs and credit cards.

Getting there

By air

Halifax Stanfield International Airport • 30 km (18.6 miles) from downtown Halifax

By train

Halifax Station

By bus

Halifax Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Halifax Transit operates a network of buses that serve the city and its suburbs. The system is efficient and affordable.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

Downtown Halifax North End Halifax South End Halifax

Day trips

Lunenburg

100 km (62 miles) • Full day

Lunenburg is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its colorful buildings, rich maritime history, and the famous Bluenose II schooner.

Bay of Fundy

200 km (124 miles) • Full day

The Bay of Fundy is known for its dramatic tides, which are among the highest in the world. The area offers stunning coastal scenery, hiking trails, and whale-watching opportunities.

Annapolis Valley

100 km (62 miles) • Full day

The Annapolis Valley is a picturesque region known for its vineyards, orchards, and scenic landscapes. The area offers wine tasting, hiking, and historic sites.

Festivals

Halifax International Busker Festival • July Halifax Jazz Festival • October Halifax Christmas Festival • November to December

Pro tips

Visit the Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk for a taste of local culture, shopping, and dining.
Explore the historic sites of Halifax, such as the Citadel Hill National Historic Site and the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic.
Enjoy the vibrant arts and music scene, with numerous galleries, theaters, and live music venues throughout the city.
Take a day trip to Peggy's Cove for stunning coastal scenery and the iconic lighthouse.
Try local seafood specialties, such as seafood chowder, donairs, and lobster rolls.