Why Nova Scotia is the Perfect Road Trip Destination (And What You Can’t Miss Along the Way)
If you're dreaming of the kind of road trip where every twist and turn comes with a view, where small towns feel like storybook settings, and where...
Old Town Lunenburg is one of only two urban communities in North America to be designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its harbourside streets and brightly painted heritage homes serve as a living museum of the 18th century, preserving an important legacy. With stunning streetscapes, amazing restaurants, local beverage producers, unique shops, and historic museums, it’s no wonder film crews are continually drawn to this working fishing town. Read on to discover how Lunenburg’s rich history poetically intertwines with modern storytelling, inviting you to experience its magic on your next visit.
Lunenburg Walking Tours
Visitors to Lunenburg can experience the town’s rich culture and historic architecture up close, with a tour from Lunenburg Walking Tours. The knowledgeable local guides take pride in delighting visitors with stories of the town’s history through a variety of tours, packages, and adventures designed to suit all ages and interests. One notable stop on select tours is St. John’s Anglican Church, which has been featured in numerous films – perhaps most notably in the 90s heartfelt feature, Simon Birch. Viewers of the film may notice the church’s distinctive black trim was painted white for the screen!
Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic
From TV series such as Locke and Key, Haven, and many more, the exterior of the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic has played a starring role on screen, yet behind its bright red siding lies a different story waiting to be discovered. Embark on a journey through three floors of exhibits to learn about the region’s rich fishing history, explore the wonders beneath the waves, and hear the stories of the first fishers. Outside, step aboard the last salt-bank schooner to fish from the port of Lunenburg, or witness the detailed craftsmanship at the Big Boat Shed—located at the former site of Smith & Rhuland, the renowned shipyard famous for building the Bluenose!
The Salt Shaker Deli
When it’s time to dine, channel your inner film star at the Salt Shaker Deli, where local seafood and gourmet pizza take center stage. Overlooking the stunning Lunenburg Harbour, this popular spot caught the eye of the creators of Netflix’s Locke and Key and even appeared in the very first episode of the series. The restaurant proudly showcases Nova Scotia’s fresh seafood, locally grown produce, and artisanal products, complemented by a selection of local wines and craft beers on tap. Guests can also reserve a room at the cozy inn located above the restaurant, making Salt Shaker the perfect vacation home base.
The Lunenburg Waterfront
Renowned as one of Nova Scotia’s most iconic vistas, the Lunenburg waterfront recently transformed into a winter wonderland for the film Christmas Island—complete with a lobster trap Christmas tree. When visiting the waterfront, take in the picturesque wharf-side vessels, explore the unique aquarium at the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic, or stop by one of the many restaurants with a beautiful harbour view. During the warmer months, choose from a variety of experiences: set sail with Sail Lunenburg Star Charters, join a fishing tour with Lunenburg Heritage Fishing Tours, or enjoy a historic two-hour harbour cruise aboard the Bluenose II.
The Ovens Natural Park
From acclaimed series such as Washington Black, Locke and Key, and The Sinner to Amazon’s upcoming release, We Were Liars, the Ovens Natural Park has enjoyed its share of the spotlight. Just 20 minutes from Lunenburg, this privately owned, 180-acre coastal park features pristine trails and breathtaking cliffside vistas. Each year, thousands of visitors hike the scenic paths to marvel at the majestic sea caves—known as the ovens—for which the park is named. Visitors can also stay on-site at the Ovens Natural Park Family Campground.
Blue Rocks
Not far from Lunenburg, experience the undeniable beauty that helped set the scene for the 1995 sleeper hit Dolores Claiborne in the authentic fishing village of Blue Rocks. When visiting Lunenburg, join a Seaweed Tours excursion to explore this picturesque seaside village. Enjoy sweeping views of the rugged coastline and hear seafaring stories from a knowledgeable guide. Alternatively, opt for the Lobster Tales with a Fisherman package to meet a local fisherman and gain firsthand insight into life on the water.
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