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Winter Family Adventures in Nova Scotia

Gather the kids and head out for fun in Nova Scotia this winter! Whether it’s getting outside for some winter adventures, cozying up inside with a hot chocolate, or maybe hitting the pool (heated of course), make Nova Scotia your family’s winter vacation destination.

Downhill Skiing and Snowtubing

You don’t have to be an expert skier to enjoy hitting the slopes in Nova Scotia. If your family is new to downhill skiing, take part in a lesson to learn the basics and become more comfortable. Expert instructors give you all the tips, tricks, and safety notes to have a fun day on the hill. If you’re experienced, head out to Ski WentworthSki MartockCape Smokey or Ski Ben Eoin for a fun day outdoors.

If downhill skiing really isn’t your thing, don’t worry, enjoy the scenic views with a gondola ride, snowshoeing or a tubing adventure at Cape Smokey.

Skiing at Cape Smokey

Winter Walks, Parks and Beaches

Winter is a wonderful time to explore Nova Scotia’s trails, parks, and beaches. While it may be too cool for a dip, a winter beach walk is always a favourite with families. Many of Nova Scotia’s provincial parks are accessible during the winter months for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and winter walks.

Victoria Park in Truro offers up beautiful winter hikes and waterfalls. If you’re in HalifaxPoint Pleasant Park and the Halifax Public Gardens are both ideal places for winter outdoor time in the city.

While you’re out exploring this winter, be sure to check out the Shubenacadie Provincial Wildlife Park which is open on weekends all winter long.

Point Pleasant Park

Museums & Education

For fun and educational indoor experiences, head to one of Nova Scotia’s museums. Visit family favourites like the Maritime Museum of the AtlanticMuseum of Natural HistoryFundy Geological MuseumMuseum of IndustryCanadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21, or Firefighters’ Museum of Nova Scotia.

Visit the Discovery Centre for hands-on science activities or Ross Farm Museum for an indoor-outdoor museum experience.

The Discovery Centre

Awesome Hotel Pools

The highlight of many family getaways is often the pool! Nova Scotia has a few options that are sure to be a hit with parents and kids! Check out this list of hotels that each offer up a pool and a waterslide:

Many other hotels throughout the province offer pools too, including the Westin Nova ScotianHalifax Marriott Harbourfront, and the Cambridge Suites Hotel Halifax.

Cambridge Suites Hotel Halifax

City Break in Halifax

Hit the streets of Halifax for some family fun. Check out kid-friendly shops like WoozlesBrain Candy Toysthe Discovery Shop (inside the Discovery Centre) or Nurtured for babies and toddlers.

Freak LunchboxSweet Jane’sAroma Maya (Dartmouth), Vandal Doughnuts or Flynn’s Dairy Bar are the perfect spots for a sweet treat, while sledding at Citadel Hill, Dartmouth Common or Sullivan Park, and skating at the Emera Oval is sure to burn some energy.

Stop for lunch or dinner at The Armview Restaurant & LoungeThe ChickenburgerDarrell’s Restaurant or Restaurant a Mano each offering something for kids and grown-ups alike.

Vandal Doughnuts

Hot Chocolate Spots

Enjoy an elevated take on a classic winter warm up – hot chocolate!

Visit Fired Creations in Sydney and The Hive Studio + Espresso Bar in Dartmouth to paint pottery while you sip. Be sure to check out NovelTea BookstoreRousseau ChocolatierLeonidas ChocolatesWorld Tea HouseThe Barn Coffee & Social HouseJust Us! Coffee RoasterSip Café, or Peace by Chocolate (Antigonish and Halifax locations) for a mug of warm, chocolatey goodness.

The Barn Coffee & Social House

Cozy Accommodations

Pack your favourite family board games, hot chocolate, most cuddly stuffy, and get cozy around the fireplace. Hit the road to enjoy quality family time at one of these Nova Scotia cottages, cabins and resorts.

White Point Beach Resort is the ideal family getaway any time of year, complete with a variety of lodging, indoor pool, and beachfront views.

Spend time at Sidanna Retreat: a collection of luxury oceanfront cottages just steps from the beach and each come complete with a hot tub (some with saunas) and stunning ocean views.

Get cozy at Irwin Lake ChaletsShubenacadie Tidal Bore Rafting Resort, or Yurts in the Vineyard in Guysborough.

Check Out Live Sports

Head for the action and take in a live hockey or lacrosse game. Fan favourites; Halifax Mooseheads and Cape Breton Eagles always draw crowds in Nova Scotia’s two largest cities, while Amherst RamblersSouth Shore LumberjacksValley WildcatsAntigonish BulldogsTruro BearcatsWeeks Crushers, and Yarmouth Mariners keep things exciting on the ice in their hometowns.

Halifax Thunderbirds Lacrosse brings a new level of energy to the Halifax live sports scene and are sure to keep fans on the edge of their seats.

White Point Beach Resort

Learn from the locals

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