Family-Friendly Adventures in !

Annapolis Valley

Why Visit?

Welcome to the enchanting Annapolis Valley, a delightful destination for families seeking adventure, history, and natural beauty. Here"s a perfect itinerary for your visit:

Day 1: Historical Exploration in Annapolis Royal

Morning

Start your day in Annapolis Royal, easily accessible by car from Halifax (about 2 hours). Visit the Fort Anne National Historic Site, the oldest continuous European settlement in Canada dating back to 1605. The kids can participate in the Xplorer program, collecting fun facts and stories about the fort.

Afternoon

Stroll through the Annapolis Royal Historic Gardens, a 17-acre horticultural paradise showcasing garden styles from the 17th century onwards. Don’t miss the innovative Children"s Garden!

Evening

Experience the Candlelight Graveyard Tour at the Royal Garrison Cemetery to hear intriguing tales from the past.

Day 2: Adventure in Kentville

Morning

Drive about 30 minutes to the town of Kentville. Begin your day with a hike at the Kentville Bird Sanctuary, a fantastic spot for wildlife viewing. The trails are easy for children and beautifully serene.

Afternoon

Visit the Oaklawn Farm Zoo, a 15-minute drive from Kentville. It’s a hit with the kids, featuring a range of exotic and domestic animals.

Evening

Wrap up the day with a casual dinner in downtown Kentville, which boasts family-friendly restaurants offering delicious local cuisine.

Day 3: Relax in Wolfville

Morning

Head to Wolfville, about 20 minutes from Kentville. Start at the Harriet Irving Botanical Gardens on the Acadia University campus to learn about the native plants of the Acadian Forest Region.

Afternoon

Conclude your trip with a leisurely stroll or bike ride along the Dykes, built by Acadians in the 17th century to manage the saltwater marshes. The flat paths are perfect for families and provide stunning views of Cape Blomidon.

This itinerary offers an enriching blend of history, nature, and local culture, making your family trip to Annapolis Valley unforgettable!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Sainte-Famille Wines

Why Visit?

Embark on a delightful family day out at Sainte-Famille Wines, nestled in the picturesque landscape of Falmouth, Nova Scotia. This family-friendly vineyard offers an engaging experience for all ages, combining educational tours with entertaining activities.

Getting There

Sainte-Famille Wines is easily accessible by car, located just 45 minutes from downtown Halifax. Drive along Highway 101 and take exit 7 to Falmouth. Follow the signs, and within a few scenic miles, you"ll arrive at the vineyard.

Start Your Visit

Begin your visit with a guided tour, available upon arrival. The tour starts at 10:00 AM and runs every hour. You"ll explore the lush vineyards and learn about the grape varieties grown on the estate. The guide will explain the winemaking process, from vine to bottle, making it understandable for all ages.

Activities and Learning

After the tour, participate in a grape-stomping event (available during harvest season in fall), which is fun for both kids and adults. Explore the science behind fermentation at a kid-friendly workshop where children can learn through interactive displays.

Picnic and Explore

Pack a picnic to enjoy in the designated picnic areas overlooking the vineyard. After lunch, take a self-guided nature walk through the trails surrounding the property. These trails offer beautiful views and the chance to spot local wildlife.

Wine Tasting

While the kids enjoy grape juice, adults can sample a variety of wines in the tasting room. The friendly staff will help you understand the unique characteristics of each wine.

Souvenirs

Visit the gift shop to pick up souvenirs like local crafts and bottles of your favorite wine to remember your day.

Interesting Fact

Sainte-Famille Wines is one of Nova Scotia"s oldest family-run wineries, known for producing award-winning wines that reflect the unique terroir of the region.

Enjoy a day filled with fun, learning, and relaxation at Sainte-Famille Wines, a perfect getaway for families looking to explore Nova Scotia"s rich winemaking heritage.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Halifax Harbour

Why Visit?

Welcome to Halifax Harbour, a vibrant and historic hub perfect for a family adventure! Here’s a fun-filled itinerary to make the most of your visit:

Morning

Start your day at the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic located on the Halifax waterfront. Easily accessible by public transit or car, it’s the perfect spot to dive into the rich maritime history of Nova Scotia. Kids will love the fascinating Titanic exhibit and the museum"s collection of ship models. Don"t miss the CSS Acadia, a ship moored permanently outside, which served in both World Wars.

Lunch

Grab some local seafood at one of the nearby waterfront eateries. The Halifax Seaport Farmers Market, a short walk south, offers fresh, local food and a lively atmosphere that captivates both young and old.

Afternoon

After lunch, take a leisurely stroll to the Halifax Ferry Terminal and hop on a ferry to Dartmouth. The ride offers stunning views of the harbour and is a fun way to see the area from a different perspective. Once in Dartmouth, explore the Quaker House, which dates back to the 1780s and gives a glimpse into the early settler life of the area.

Evening

Return to Halifax and finish your day with a walk along the bustling boardwalk. Stretching 3 km, it’s one of the world’s longest downtown boardwalks. Here, the family can enjoy street performers, grab a gelato, and watch ships sail by. End your evening at the Halifax Public Gardens, a beautiful Victorian era garden that offers a peaceful retreat with stunning flower displays and meandering paths.

Throughout your day, keep an eye out for historic plaques and monuments that are scattered across the city, each telling its own story of Halifax"s colorful past. This itinerary combines education, fun, and relaxation to create unforgettable memories for the whole family!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Peggy’s Cove

Why Visit?

Morning: Arrival and Exploration of Peggy"s Cove

Start your family adventure by driving to Peggy"s Cove, located about an hour from Halifax. This small rural community offers a picturesque setting by the Atlantic Ocean. Begin at the iconic Peggy"s Cove Lighthouse, one of Nova Scotia’s most famed landmarks, standing since 1915. The area around the lighthouse offers perfect spots for family photos against the backdrop of crashing waves and rugged granite rocks.

Tip: Wear comfortable shoes as the terrain around the lighthouse is rocky and can be slippery.

Lunch: Picnic at Peggy’s Cove

Pack a picnic to enjoy at the nearby picnic area where you can soak in the ocean views. Local shops offer delightful seafood treats like smoked salmon or lobster rolls that you can grab for a seaside meal.

Afternoon: Visit the Sou"Wester Gift & Restaurant

After lunch, walk to the Sou"Wester Gift & Restaurant. It’s a great spot to pick up unique maritime souvenirs and delve into some local history. The restaurant also offers traditional Nova Scotian dishes if you prefer a sit-down meal.

Explore the Local Art Scene

Post lunch, stroll through the village to explore local art galleries. Visit the William E. deGarthe Memorial Museum to see his sculptures and paintings inspired by the life and people of Peggy"s Cove. It"s a perfect blend of art and local culture that will fascinate both kids and adults.

Evening: Scenic Drive and Departure

Wrap up your day with a scenic drive along the coast back towards Halifax. The route offers beautiful sunset views and occasional glimpses of wildlife, perfect for ending your day at Peggy’s Cove.

Remember: Peggy"s Cove is a popular spot, so to avoid crowds, consider visiting during the weekdays or in the early morning. Enjoy your family day at one of Nova Scotia’s treasures, filled with natural beauty and cultural charm!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Halifax Public Gardens

Why Visit?

Welcome to the enchanting Halifax Public Gardens, a must-visit family destination located in the heart of downtown Halifax. The Victorian-era garden, sprawling over 16 acres, is a delightful oasis for families to explore and enjoy. Here’s how to make the most out of your visit:

### Getting There

Halifax Public Gardens is easily accessible by public transport, with several bus stops nearby. If you"re driving, there is metered parking available along Spring Garden Road and surrounding streets. The garden is centrally located, making it a convenient stop if you’re exploring other downtown attractions.

### Start at the Horticultural Hall

Begin your tour at the Horticultural Hall, which is close to the main entrance. Here, you can grab a map and learn about the garden"s history. The building itself, dating back to 1907, is a piece of art, adorned with historical artifacts and floral exhibits.

### Explore Themed Gardens and Ponds

Stroll through beautifully themed gardens, each offering its unique flora and artistic installations. Don’t miss the stunning Dahlia Garden and the elegant Victorian Garden. Kids will love feeding the ducks at Griffin"s Pond, but remember to bring duck-safe food like grapes cut in half or shredded lettuce.

### Discover the Bandstand and Fountains

Head towards the iconic Victorian bandstand, built in 1887, where you might catch live performances during summer weekends. Nearby, find several ornate fountains like the Jubilee Fountain, a favorite among visitors for its intricate design.

### Enjoy a Family Picnic

Pack a picnic and enjoy a relaxing family meal under the shade of ancient trees. There are designated picnic areas where you can spread out and enjoy the serene atmosphere.

### Visit the Playground

Conclude your visit at the public playground adjacent to the gardens. It’s a perfect spot for kids to expend some energy before heading back.

Whether it"s exploring rich history, admiring botanical beauty, or simply enjoying a family outing, Halifax Public Gardens offers a memorable experience for all ages.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.