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Bridgewater: Main Street of the South Shore

Bridgewater is the largest town on the South Shore and is affectionately known as the Main Street of the region. As a centre for services and shopping, it’s home to a variety of restaurants, breweries, parks, and trails, many within walking distance and set along the picturesque LaHave River. Bring your bike to explore the Centennial Trail, which follows a former railbed along the river and connects to nearby communities.

A fantastic hub and spoke destination for the region, Bridgewater is just a short drive to the LaHave Islands and several white sand beaches, including Risser’s Beach Provincial Park. Whether you plan to stay for the weekend, or make Bridgewater your vacation home base, read on for tips to make the most of your stay.

Four friends dine outside along a riverside under a red umbrella.
River Pub

Riverside Dining

Many of the town’s restaurants and breweries are located within walking distance along King Street. For cozy, pub dining, don’t miss the River Pub, serving up hearty pub fare, such as lobster rolls, pub club, seafood chowder, and fish and chips. The pub’s spacious outdoor patio, perched over the LaHave River, is the perfect spot to take in the riverside views.

Step back in time and dine in a 50’s themed diner at Jac’s Burgers and Shakes. Known for their bacon-infused burger and old-fashioned milkshakes, this spot is sure to fill you up and make you smile. Dine riverside on the patio, or take your meal to-go and enjoy a picnic at neighbouring King Street Court Park.

For a unique culinary experience, head to La Casetta for freshly prepared pastas, paninis and distinctive cocktails and specialty wines, paired with regular live music.

Four friends sit at a red picnic table outside of a brewery doing a cheers with their glasses.
King Street Beer Company

Local Brews & Live Music

Just a few steps from the restaurants you’ll find FirkinStein Brewing. This small but mighty brewery hosts regular live music. Nearby, the taproom and courtyard seating at King Street Beer Company features lots of space to kick back and listen to live music or take part in their popular game nights. A sister location to the popular Saltbox Brewing Company, make sure to try one of their signature brews, including the unique lobster ale, Crustacean Elation.

From June to the end of September, enjoy music right on the banks of the LaHave River, at Pijinuiskaq Park’s open-air performance pavilion. The annual Music on the Riverbank presents free music for all ages every Tuesday evening. Bring your lawn chair or picnic blanket, grab a bite to eat from one of the nearby restaurants, and listen to the music. The season ends with two days of live music at the annual Harvest Moon Music Festival.

An overhead view of a table with multiple brunch dishes like toast, bacon, waffles coffee, smoothie and sandwich.
Fancy Pants Café

Flavourful Eats

For breakfast or lunch, stop by Fancy Pants Café, where they aim to use sustainably grown and local ingredients. Be sure to try their breakfast sandwich, chicken salad, and house made veggie burger, as well as delicious house made treats. With locations in downtown Bridgewater and the Lunenburg County Lifestyle Centre (LCLC), they’re a great spot to eat-in or take-out.

Savour authentic Mexican flavours at Tacoland Mexican Restaurant. Passionately run by a local Mexican family who are enthusiastic about sharing their culture through each dish, make sure to try the chimichanga, quesabirria, pambazo, and of course, tacos.

When its time for coffee, The Barn Coffee & Social House has you covered with their ethically sourced, speciality coffee from around the world and their own locally roasted blends. Select a cup and relax on the patio or enjoy lunch, craft brews, and a selection of house made pastries, croissants and other goodies.

An aerial view of a motel and cottage situated along the water's edge at sunset.
Lighthouse Motel & Cottages

Unique Accommodations

Within and nearby Bridgewater there are many places to stay. Relax riverside at Lighthouse Motel & Cottages. This boutique accommodation blends Canadiana with eclectic coastal charm. With 500 feet of waterfront, a small private beach, lots of green space, communal BBQs, picnic tables, a large dock, and a firepit, it’s the perfect waterside getaway located just outside of the town.

Located just outside Bridgewater, Best Western Plus Bridgewater offers 103 beautifully appointed rooms and suites (king or queen beds and two with kitchenettes) with an indoor pool and waterslide. Their onsite restaurant, 27 South offers a locally inspired menu and a beautiful patio with a cozy firepit.

For a private getaway, book your stay at Blysteiner Lake Dome, just outside Bridgewater. This four season, lake front dome features a king-sized bed, kitchenette, and outdoor hot tub with panoramic views of the lake.

Two men walk through a lush, canopied trail.
Miller Point Peace Park

Riverfront Parks and Trails

Explore the area by foot or bike on the Centennial Trail. This 8 km, year-round, multi-use trail, along former rail bed twists and turns along the LaHave River and is a gateway to more than 125 kms of trails connecting surrounding communities, including Mahone Bay. The large trestle bridge over the river presents a beautiful backdrop for a photo and the benches are a natural place to rest. Bring your bike or borrow one from the Lunenburg County Lifestyle Centre (LCLC).

Just outside town, Miller Point Peace Park provides a perfect 3 km walk along a looping trail through a mature stand of red pine, with impressive views of the LaHave River.

A couple and their dog stands in front of an entry to a whimsical maze. There is a large faux spider above their heads at the entry.
BernArt Maze

Arts & Culture

The DesBrisay Museum is home to Canada’s fifth-oldest history collection, historic photographs and ship models, colourful folk art, and a monthly rotating gallery. Among its collection is the world-famous porcupine quill hooded cradle dated to 1867 by Christianne Morris, believed to be the largest known example of Mi’kmaq quillwork in existence. Chat with knowledgeable staff, while learning the history of Lunenburg County and pick up locally made artisan works from the gift shop. While onsite, enjoy a walk through Woodland Gardens Park, with looping trails around a duck pond.

Experience art and sculptures up close at the BernArt Maze, just a couple minutes outside Bridgewater. This unique attraction is Canada’s very first art maze and features almost a kilometer of paths to explore the outdoor gallery of sculptures, mosaics, and murals. From large nature pieces to the Nova Scotia post card, each one-of-a-kind creation was hand crafted by talented artists from around the world.

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