While Nova Scotia is known for smaller towns and quiet lifestyles, you’ll have no issue finding ways to stay busy. From national parks to unique restaurants and exciting waterfalls, there’s always something amazing to explore. No matter what time of year it is, Nova Scotia will encourage you to get outside and spend some time in nature’s beauty. Here are some of the most well-loved spots around the province: 

1. Cabot Trail
• Cabot Trail is the most scenic drive in Nova Scotia, that will take you through some of the province’s most beautiful scenic landscapes. The 300km trail starts at Cape Breton Highlands National Park and winds its way along the rugged Atlantic coastline through some of Canada’s most spectacular scenery, before finishing up near Ingonish Beach Provincial Park. Along the way you’ll find iconic attractions like The Needle’s Eye, St. Ann’s Bay Lighthouse, and Peggy’s Cove lighthouse. Pro tip: Cabot Trail is most popular in the autumn because the vibrant colors of the trees and surrounding scenery are unlike any other. Take advantage of the brisk temperatures to take a hike or bike along some designated trails along the way.
2. Peggy’s Cove
• Peggy’s Cove is a small fishing village located on the eastern coast of Canada. Peggy’s cove was established in 1884 when John Anderson, an entrepreneur from Boston, Massachusetts, built a store and hotel there to take advantage of the lucrative boat building trade that had developed in the area. The cove has been home to many notable residents, including painter Lawren Harris, who lived there for several years at his family’s summer house. He named the house “Smugglers’ Cottage” after its use during Prohibition by rum-runners bringing liquor into Nova Scotia from New Brunswick. Lighthouse keeper James Alexander Stewart moved his two sons and one daughter to Peggy’s Cove where they raised their own children before returning to their home in Halifax. Peggy’s Cove is a popular destination for tourists and photographers alike, with many walking trails that take visitors around the cove to see some of Nova Scotia’s most beautiful coastline. 
3. Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site
• The Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site reconstructs mid-18th century fort life with over 40 authentic structures, costumed guides, and operational businesses. The town’s huge defensive walls surround it on all sides, some of which were as thick as 35 feet when built. The recreated area is now bustling with actors in costume who enact various aspects of everyday life, from housekeeping to those in the military. Visitors can observe servants cook, sample fresh baked bread, see merchants sell their merchandise, and feel the ground shake as troops fire the cannon and muskets. The campground has a special experience for people looking for an interesting getaway. If you want to go all out, spend the night in a reproduction tent or a period house, which is an incredibly unique experience for couples seeking an unforgettable adventure.
4. Cape Breton Highlands National Park
• Cape Breton Highlands National Park protects one quarter of all remaining old growth forest on Cape Breton Island and many other rare species that depend on this habitat for their survival. The area contains Nova Scotia’s highest peak and covers 950 square kilometers of Cape Breton Island. The park is also the only land access to an untouched section of coastline on Nova Scotia’s mainland, where visitors can enjoy hiking trails and incredible views from the highlands cliffs. Cape Breton Highlands National Park offers some spectacular opportunities for exploration including fishing in pristine coves or along Cape Breton’s rugged Atlantic shoreline. Hikers can choose from many challenging trails, and wildlife experts can see moose, beaver, eagles, and deer throughout the park.
5. Maritime Museum of the Atlantic
• The Maritime Museum of the Atlantic is a Canadian maritime museum located in downtown Halifax, Nova Scotia. Its exhibits focus on Canada’s marine heritage and the lives of Nova Scotians who work at sea. The museum has seen over 3 million visitors since opening in 1991 and houses an extensive collection that includes more than 10,000 artifacts and 1 million photographs spanning three centuries. More than 200 model ships can be found in the museum and there is an entire exhibit on the rescue efforts after the Titanic sank. You’ll find several artifacts that were found at sea during the rescue and ones that were recovered later on. Queen Elizabeth II even donated Queen Victoria’s Royal Barge to the museum, so visitors can see the ship located in Halifax Harbour. Whether you are more interested in history or Canada’s maritime reputation, you’ll find plenty of both here!
6. Kejimkujik National Park
• The Kejimkujik National Park is located in New Scotland, Nova Scotia, and covers almost 400 square kilometers of land. A modest seaside extension features a beautiful white-sand beach that is one of the park’s major attractions. One of the most appealing aspects of this tranquil location is the long history of the Mi’kmaq people who have inhabited the region for thousands of years. The vast majority of the park is only accessible by foot or canoe, making it an ideal location to get away. Campsites may be found throughout the park for individuals who wish to immerse themselves in nature entirely or simply walk about during the day while enjoying the scenery.
7. Lunenburg
• Lunenburg is a small town in Nova Scotia, Canada that has been around for over 350 years. The town’s history has made it into museums and exhibits all over the world, and nearly 3/4 of the buildings there are the original structures from the 18th and 19th centuries. One of the most popular attractions in Lunenburg is the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic which was formerly known as “The Fisherman’s House.” It showcases artifacts dating back to 1777 when fishing became an important industry in Lunenburg. You’ll find many interesting things here including preserved fish or sea creatures, equipment used by fishermen, and information about how they lived back then too! Visitors can also see various other buildings from different time periods including Victorian-era homes and churches that are still standing today. Lunenburg is the ultimate relaxing place to go for a quaint day on the waterfront. 
8. Canada Museum of Immigration at Pier 21
• The Canada Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 is a museum devoted to the story of immigration to Canada, as told through the experience of those who passed through the former Pier 21. It is recorded that 20% of the nation’s immigrants from 1928 to 1971 were welcomed into Canada at the Pier. Commissioned by The Canadian Heritage Council in 1990 and opened on September 28th, 1992, this national historic site offers an insight into what it was like for people from all over the world to come here as immigrants looking for a better life. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits that illustrate how immigration has changed over time and reflect on their own family histories. Interactive displays help visitors understand how different waves of newcomers have helped shape the country’s identity and diversity today. The museum also features an impressive collection including more than 11,000 photographs documenting arrivals at Pier 21 between 1928 and 1971, as well as more than 200 artifacts. When you visit, you can even trace your own family’s immigration history for free at the Scotiabank Family History Centre!
9. Annapolis Royal Historic Gardens
• The Annapolis Royal Historic Gardens in Nova Scotia is your place to stroll through 10 acres of the most beautiful horticulture you’ll ever see. As one of the top show gardens in North America, Annapolis Royal Historic Gardens offer visitors two thousand rose bushes, vast green lawns, and a Governor’s Garden with plants and flowers reflective of the 1740’s. When you visit, make sure to check out the demonstration plots to learn different techniques and planting styles. If you have an important event coming up, the back side of the gardens is a popular wedding and event space, with gorgeous floral views along the riverbank. It’s easy to get lost exploring all these beautiful grounds have to offer, so give yourself some time and enjoy!
10. Halifax Public Gardens
• Halifax Public Gardens is a beautiful place that’s perfect for getting away from the hustle and bustle of life. The gardens are located in downtown Halifax, Nova Scotia and have been around since 1867, making them the oldest Victorian gardens in North America. They were originally laid out by Edward Kemp on behalf of the citizens of Halifax. Today, there are five different sections to explore including: Georges Island Garden with its lily pond and rose garden, Rocking Stone Garden with its lovely flower beds, Wildflower Meadow which features native plants seen in Nova Scotia during the 19th century, Victorian Garden which has formal plantings reminiscent of English style gardening popular in that time period, and the Maud Lewis Memorial Rose Garden, which was created in memory of local folk artist, Maud Lewis. You can take guided tours through the gardens, or you can simply stroll through the scenery on your own time. The gardens are free to visit, so this is an affordable and relaxing day out.