A Guide to the Walking and Biking Trails in Halifax

When you’re in Nova Scotia for Halifax business travel or temporary housing for your family, you’re probably interested in all the exciting things to see and do. During your time in the city, we encourage you to take some time to relax and enjoy the stunning nature around you! One of Halifax’s most notable achievements in city living is the lack of traffic and the many safe walking and biking paths and areas. It’s easy to get wherever you need to go on foot or bike, and for even more beautiful surroundings, you can visit these trails nearby our downtown Halifax urban rentals!

bike next to the canadian leaf mural

Halifax Public Gardens

If you want a place where you can escape the bustle of the city and enjoy some beautiful flowers and nature around every turn, head to the Halifax Public Gardens. You’ll start out entering through the ornate gates that have been welcoming guests since 1890 before you discover all the other impressive features of the gardens. Stroll past the upper and lower bridges, carpet beds that are continually changing to celebrate local events, and the tropical display bed that features exotic plant life you wouldn’t otherwise see in Halifax.

Throughout the Halifax Public Gardens, you’ll see evidence of the classic Victorian Gardenesque style popular when the gardens were established. This location is considered the sole authentic Victorian Garden in North America today! Jogging is not allowed in the Gardens, but you’re more than welcome to walk along the paths. While you’re here, you can also visit the Uncommon Grounds Café on site or bring your kids to the Kids Zone for a well-rounded experience for all. Best of all, something new is in bloom every season, making this a location you can return to again and again throughout your stay in Halifax.

walking trail in public gardens in halifax
halifax park with trees next to the ocean

Point Pleasant Park

Point Pleasant Park is the ultimate place to explore nature and take a step back from the city’s hustle and bustle. Just minutes away from our short term rentals, this beautiful park on the peninsula’s south end is popular for residents and visitors alike to walk, run, bike, or relax. Point Pleasant Park has 39 kilometers of easy trails, making them accessible for everyone. There are also convenient public restrooms and plenty of off-leash dog walking areas if you’re in town with your furry friend!

While Point Pleasant Park is the perfect place for walking and cycling, that’s not all that this location has to offer. You can also embark on a self-guided cultural walking tour to learn more about the area, then discover the preserved ruins of Halifax’s early fortifications. If you’re in town for the summer, be sure to come here for a worth-while performance from Shakespeare by the Sea! Feel free to walk here any day of the week or bring your bike on the weekends and holidays. If you’re searching for a relaxing spot to spend an afternoon, Point Pleasant Park is ideal.

man with a bike overlooking the ocean

Georges Island National Historic Site

For those who want to learn about the area while also enjoying some beautiful nature, a trip to Georges Island National Historic Site is a must. Located in Halifax Harbour, Georges Island is easy to reach by ferry service available through Murphy’s on the Water. Once you arrive, you can walk around and discover the fascinating place that the Mi’kmaq peoples called “Kjipuktuk,” which translates to “The Great Harbour.” You can chat with costumed interpreters dressed like Second World War soldiers and learn about the intriguing past of the fortification.

You’ll also have the chance to learn about the island’s role before the Second World War. Discover the 1746 D’Anville expedition’s stories, the establishment of the first fortifications in 1750, and the internment of Acadian prisoners throughout the Deportation of 1755-1764. You can also explore the different forms of technology and harbor defenses used here throughout the Victorian area! It’s easy to spend an entire day walking through the sites on your self-guided tour.

No matter what brings you to Halifax, take some time to escape your work and worries and discover the beauty of the city. Our furnished rentals in Halifax put you moments away from these sites, so you can easily walk or bike to any one of these locations for some great exercise and refreshing fresh air. Whether you plan to stay in our corporate rentals and suites for a week or a year, there’s always something new to discover in town! To learn more about our short term rentals, contact us today.