Experience Arts & Culture in Nova Scotia this Winter
Create unforgettable memories with friends and family this winter through vibrant arts and crafts, UNESCO World Heritage sites and more!
Cure your case of cabin fever this winter and get out to explore a few of Nova Scotia’s museums. Discover stories of Nova Scotia’s past and better understand events that have shaped the province we are today. Make a day of it and visit a restaurant, café, or shops nearby, before or after your museum visit!
Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, Halifax
Located on the Halifax Waterfront, this is the perfect place to learn about Nova Scotia’s connection to the sea. See displays about small craft boat building, World War convoys, the Halifax Explosion, and Halifax’s connection to the Titanic disaster. Plus, see artifacts from shipwrecks off the coast of Nova Scotia, a display from the set of children’s television favourite “Theodore Tugboat”, and much more.
Museum of Natural History, Halifax
Discover all things related to the land and sea in Nova Scotia at the Museum of Natural History in Halifax. Here you will uncover the ties between the natural landscape and humankind, with exhibits, activities and displays for all ages. From ancient fossils and Sable Island ponies to significant cultural artifacts and Gus, the 100+ year-old Gopher Tortoise, this an ideal way to spend an afternoon in the city.
Ross Farm Museum, New Ross
This working farm showcases rural heritage and Canada’s farming history. Visitors can experience what life was like on a farm in the 1800s through demonstrations of heritage skills like blacksmithing, ox shoeing and candle making. Chat with interpreters and enjoy nature walks along the on-site trails, visits with animals and sleigh rides (weather permitting).
Black Loyalist Heritage Centre, Birchtown
The history and contributions of the Black Loyalists, some of Canada’s first settlers, are on display here. Visit the Old School House Museum, the historic church, and the walkway with interpretive panels located alongside scenic Birchtown Bay. The Heritage Centre features artifacts and multimedia exhibits illustrating the important story of this group of Nova Scotians.
Firefighters’ Museum of Nova Scotia, Yarmouth
This one-of-a-kind museum in the province lets visitors see the types of fire engines used from the 1800s to the 1930s and tells the story of firefighting in Nova Scotia during this period. View a collection of antique toy fire engines and memorabilia from fire stations around the world. Don’t miss a photo op when you or the kids get behind the wheel of a 1933 Chev Bickle pumper!
Fundy Geological Museum, Parrsboro
Interactive displays throughout this museum lead you through half a billion years of geological history. Check out the planet’s earliest dinosaurs, learn about the unique geology of the area including the impact of the Bay of Fundy tides, and visit a working fossil lab!
Museum of Industry, Stellarton
Costumed interpreters, interactive exhibits, and fascinating artifacts (including the nation’s oldest steam locomotives) tell the story of Nova Scotia’s early thriving industries. Kids will love exploring this museum with many exciting exhibits like an overhead train, water tower, and chocolate assembly line game.
Africville Museum, Halifax
The museum stands in a replica of the church that was the heart of Africville, with audiovisual kiosks, pictures, descriptive panels, and artifacts telling the story of Africville, an African Nova Scotian community that was destroyed in the 1960s. Explore the interpretive displays at nearby Africville Park for even more about this story.
Membertou Heritage Park, Membertou First Nation
Learn about the history and culture that the Mi’kmaq of Membertou maintain to this day through interactive displays and artifacts, including an authentic handmade birch bark canoe and a 7-foot-tall ash basket – the largest in Canada! Before you leave, browse through Petroglyphs Gift Shop, which specializes in traditional and contemporary Mi’kmaq arts and crafts.
Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21, Halifax
Find out about Canada’s immigration story, which began at Pier 21 for millions of Canadians. Interactive exhibits allow you to experience what it was like to immigrate to Canada through Pier 21. Then, take a look at how newcomers have influenced Canada, trace your roots at the Scotiabank Family History Centre, and test your knowledge at the Canadian Citizenship Test Table.
Black Cultural Centre for Nova Scotia, Cherry Brook
Visit this museum and cultural gathering place for a deeper understanding of Canada’s oldest and longest standing Black communities, rooted right here in Nova Scotia. Explore the rich history of Black Nova Scotians and the contributions they’ve made, which continue to shape our province today.
DesBrisay Museum, Bridgewater
This self proclaimed “hub of heritage, art and culture for Bridgewater and Lunenburg County” offers up research on historic homes, plus permanent galleries focusing on folk art, shipbuilding, and the Mi’kmaq people of the area. Explore the nearby Woodland Gardens Park after your time in the museum.
Discovery Centre, Halifax
Located on the Halifax Waterfront, pay a visit to Atlantic Canada’s premier science centre for hands-on learning! Explore five state-of-the-art themed galleries – ocean, energy, health flight and the children’s gallery for toddlers and young children. Experience live science demonstrations and exhibits that change throughout the year, and don’t miss the giant body bubble!
Learn from the locals
Fine Art, Fall Fun & Flavours in Bear River, a Tidal Village on Stilts!
Plan a perfect fall getaway to Bear River, a tidal village on stilts! Explore the many artisan studios, galleries, and shops that make Bear River a...
Make family memories connecting with Mi’kmaw culture in the Millbrook & Truro area
Since time immemorial the Mi'kmaw people have cared for and stewarded the land we now call Nova Scotia. Mi’kma’ki, the traditional territory of the...
7 Places to see Summer Theatre in Nova Scotia
All the world’s a stage and Nova Scotia’s no different. After an exciting day exploring Nova Scotia’s sights and sounds find your seat and treat yo...
8 Historical Escapes in the Bay of Fundy & Annapolis Valley
The Bay of Fundy and Annapolis Valley region is home to some of the province’s earliest recorded history, from the fossils of prehistoric creatures...
Tag your travel photos to be featured.
