Nova Scotia Fits Every Playlist
Nova Scotia fits every playlist! Whether you’re in the mood to rock out on a hike or if relaxing seaside is your jam, there are plenty of amazing ...
Lunenburg is the perfect place to launch your South Shore adventure. This vibrant seaside town, one of only two urban communities in North America recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, welcomes visitors with colourful historic streets, a lively waterfront, and unforgettable coastal experiences for the whole family. Read on for tips to make the most of your time in this iconic town.
Walk Downtown at Old Town Lunenburg UNESCO World Heritage Site
Start your visit on the historic waterfront, the heart of Lunenburg, where the town’s rich Maritime heritage comes to life. Stroll the colourful streets to view the unique architecture of Old Town Lunenburg UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Hear stories of seafaring, historical insights and local folklore on a guided tour with Lunenburg Walking Tours or Trot in Time Carriage Tours.
Explore the History and Culture at Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic
Learn about Nova Scotia’s rich fishing culture at the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic through hands-on exhibits, live demonstrations, and hearing fascinating stories from the sea. Throughout the season, the museum hosts many community events, demonstrations, and family-friendly activities, making every visit a little different.
After exploring, enjoy a meal at Old Fish Factory Restaurant & Ice House Bar overlooking the harbour and stop by the Salt Store Gift Shop, where you’ll find unique coastal gifts, books, and locally inspired treasures to remember your visit.
Sail on Bluenose II
Step aboard the legendary Bluenose II, Canada’s iconic schooner (when in port), to walk the deck, meet the crew, and hear their stories from life at sea. Set sail on an unforgettable two-hour harbour cruise, offered twice daily. Or, discover the thrill of becoming a crew member, while learning some sailing techniques on the day-long experience, Deckhand for a Day.
Savour Vibrant Food and Drink
Savour local seafood straight from the Atlantic, from sweet scallops and fresh lobster to hearty seafood chowder and oysters harvested along the coast. Lunenburg’s waterfront and historic streets are filled with flavours that celebrate the region’s rich fishing heritage. You can also taste Lunenburg’s German heritage with schnitzel, German baked goods, Lunenburg sausage and pudding, sauerkraut, and Solomon Gundy.
Whether you’re looking for a cozy pub, relaxed fine dining, or casual café with house made meals and treats to go, this culinary destination offers a variety of restaurants. The guided Tastes of Lunenburg Food Tour with Lunenburg Walking Tours is a fun way to sample local flavours at a few different locations.
Discover Lunenburg Academy National Historic Site
Overlooking the town, the beautiful Lunenburg Academy National Historic Site, often called the “castle on the hill”, is one of the most photographed buildings in Nova Scotia and the only intact 19th century Academy Building in Nova Scotia.
Explore a heritage interpretive classroom and enjoy local and international musical performers at Lunenburg Academy of Music Performance.
Immerse Yourself in the Arts and Culture
Discover one-of-a-kind treasures as you browse Lunenburg’s charming shops filled with artisan creations and handcrafted goods. From locally made art, jewellery, and textiles to distinctive coastal souvenirs, you’ll find unique pieces created by talented makers that capture the spirit of Lunenburg and make the perfect keepsake to remember your visit.
Meet local artists at galleries throughout town, including Peer Gallery, Power House Art Gallery and Studio, Laurie Swim Gallery, and many more.
Dive into the art of knifemaking and gain insights into the work of a modern bladesmith at Wildertools. And get your toes tappin’ at the annual Lunenburg Folk Harbour Festival.
Explore the Coastline and Trails
Like many coastal towns, some of the best views are from the water! Experience Lunenburg’s picturesque waterfront and coastline by boat with Sail Lunenburg Star Charters, Lunenburg Heritage Fishing Tours, or Lunenburg Ocean Adventures.
Explore the nearby islands of Blue Rocks and Mahone Bay on a guided kayaking adventure with Pleasant Paddling or tour by Zodiac with Expedition Nova Scotia.
If on land adventure is what you seek, bring your bike or rent one from Lunenburg Bike Shop or Tide & Trail Outfitters to cycle the Rum Runners Trail, a 119km multi-use trail along former railbed, connecting Lunenburg to Halifax and many of the communities in between.
Ovens Natural Park and Sea Cave Trail
Hike along the spectacular coastal cliffs at Ovens Natural Park and Sea Cave Trail to see the sea caves or “ovens”. Experience the resounding boom of crashing waves in Cannon Cave and enjoy panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and coastline.
The park includes picnic areas, a general store, restaurant, and onsite campground and rustic cabins with swimming pool and daily live music.
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