If you are into history, this is an excellent stop. They have guided tours that don't cost extra. The changing of the guard ceremony is performed every hour on the hour. Give yourself at least 2 hours to see everything. read more

Citadel Hill - Parks Near Me - Halifax, Nova Scotia

See all

Nice historic spot to check out. Enjoyed walking around. Everything is nicely labeled. Gift store had several options. Staff was helpful in pointing us in the right direction to see things. Enjoyed the changing of the guards. read more

See all

Had a couple hours before our scheduled excursion and decided to walk here from the cruise port. Admission was free, and guests are welcome to walk around and view the different areas of the citadel. Employees were friendly, informative and made the experience enjoyable: you can easily spend the whole day here learning and viewing the various exhibits. read more

Citadel Hill - Parks Near Me - Halifax, Nova Scotia

See all

Very beautiful historic site where you can both enjoy the view of downtown and the waterfront and also learn more about the history of immigrants. You can buy a ticket and visit inside the site where there will be a guide to tell you more about the history of this place, or just walk around, sit on the hill and enjoy the view. read more

See all

Probably our favorite stop we visited while ported in Halifax. Really fun to stroll through, take pictures. The living history drills were fun to watch. They have tours of the grounds and beautiful overlooks of the city. read more

See all

Part of our tour for the day. We made it before 4 PM in order to see the changing of the guard which was interesting. They were dressed in that period. It was a self guided tour. I enjoyed walking around and going into the different rooms to read up on some history. If you climb the stairs, you can get a good view of the city. Restrooms were plentiful and clean which was great. read more

Nice fort close to the cruise port. Lots of informational signs posted around with history of the area. Guards change on the hour and cannons shoot daily every day except Christmas. read more

See all

Great attraction about a 20 minute walk from the cruise port or a stop on the "hop on hop off bus." They have GREAT tour guides, actresses, and actors in costume. They honor all wars, I was here on the 80th anniversary of D-Day, and they had displays. I can't recall my tour guides name, but I will include a picture of him. read more

See all

You don't want to miss the cannon firing at noon each day we were close that we felt the blast. Wow! Really nice to see the fort folks dressed in period appropriate attire and a nice stop to get a taste of history. Well worth the time and ticket price. read more

Citadel Hill - View from the Citadel towards the pier - Parks Near Me - Halifax, Nova Scotia

This was stop #6 on the Hop-On Hop-Off tour by Ambassatours GrayLine. The elevation level at this point of interest is much higher than the surrounding area. read more

See all

Nice and educative place. Good for any groups and very informative. I enjoyed walking allover without anyone trying to give me a tour. I suggest doing it without a tour to be at your own pace. read more

Citadel Hill - Parks Near Me - Halifax, Nova Scotia

We spent several hours touring the Citadel. The things that stood out the most were the quality and knowledge of the interpreters. Make sure you take advantage of the tours and presentations. The facility is impressive and a credit to the craftsmen who restored it. Outstanding! read more

Recommended. This fort is, allegedly, the last complete bastion fort of it's kind in he world today. Pipers (bagpipers) play, guards March and stand watch, as interpreters (local historians) tell visitors about the history of Halifax. It's a great show and well worth the visit. The picture below reflects a view from the Citadel toward the port. read more

See all

Citadel Hill is a wonderful touristic attraction. It's a historic sight and features great views of the city, interesting exhibits, and a changing of the guard ceremony that was very fun to watch (I'm sure there's more to do but they close quite early so didn't have time to do everything). They offer free guided tours every 30 minutes or so but they don't visit every single part of the citadel so Adam I decided to check things out on our own. We headed to the temporary exhibit first which was a recreation of trenches and it was so well done it was disturbing. It felt so real and so scary. I'm not claustrophobic but I couldn't even enter the recreated bedrooms/nurse station because it felt creepy. We then headed to the top area where we stopped at every nice viewpoint and descended into the areas with supplies/ammunition. We then got to see a changing of the guard ceremony and finished with the mini museum section where the info desk is as well as the gift shop. I would really recommend buying any souvenirs you might want at this gift shop, the prices were better than the other places I saw and for the same things. I regretted not getting anything. A really great activity. PS: Another Amazing Race Canada season 3 location! read more

See all

We walked from the cruise terminal up to the Citadel and timed it to arrive before the noon cannon. The admission price is very reasonable. There are costumed reenactors throughout the grounds and they are happy to explain things. We latched on to a tour group. The guide was very entertaining and informative and he brought us up to the cannon for the noon firing. Our group had the best spots for viewing the firing and the guide described each step of the process. read more

We visited the Citadel on our first trip to Halifax, NS, and had to go on the ghost tour led by candlelight at night! It's a tour offered every fall leading up to Halloween and really quite fun. I think the experience largely depends on our tour guide and their ability to tell stories. The staff are in character - from story, to name, to clothing from the period they are representing. Stories told span the 1700's to today. The city views are breathtaking from atop the hill and made for a great end to our first trip out East. Halifax sure is lucky to have an urban gem of a National Park right downtown. This is a definite don't miss on a trip out East if you find yourself in Halifax! If I ever get to come back, I will definitely come back during daytime hours for the full tour and productions. From reading everyone's reviews, it sounds amazing! read more

See all

Well-maintained fortress in the middle of downtown Halifax, including knowledgeable and friendly staff dressed in period uniforms and demonstrations throughout the day. A nicely done self-guided museum in the main building highlights Canada's armed forces throughout history with special mention and recognition of Canadian war heroes. The day we visited was brutally hot but there were fewer visitors as a result. Walking along the top of the wall allowed for a beautiful breeze so it was comfortable and also afforded great views. A great way to spend an hour or two and a great chance to learn more about Canada's history. read more

See all

Citadel Hill is the commands the high ground of Halifax and was a central tourist stop for me and Gayle. We hiked up from the back (after visiting the Halifax Public Gardens) and walked down into Downtown when we were finished. It was a fairly easy walk all around. The views from from the top of the wall were the highlight for us. We dabbled in the historical offerings of which there were many. The most impressive was the overall architecture, the changing of the guard, and receiving a general primer in Atlantic Canada military history. We didn't do it, but I'd recommend a tour guide as there are lots of moving parts here that a local expert would piece together well. read more

It was a fairly aggressive uphill walk, but worth it. Admission has senior rates. Arrived in time to walk around the this well maintained fort before the firing of the cannon at noon. Enjoyed seeing the period dress of many types of soldiers and citizens, who were happy to answer questions. Spent about 75 minutes. The winds certainly made it seem cooler than what it was, and one can imagine how cold it must be in winter! read more

Citadel Hill - Parks Near Me - Halifax, Nova Scotia

This place is so cool and has so much history. It lies on the top of a hill and was a defensive post in Halifax that deterred enemy naval ships back in the 19th century. It has an amazing view of Halifax being on the top of a hill and within there is so many interesting artifacts, such as the building, cannons, and the walls that were preserved really well. When you go they have demonstrations and trainings of young "cadets", I'm not really sure what they're called. We even saw a man demonstrating how to shoot some 19th century guns and they did actually shoot the guns. They even have a world war one exhibit to mimic trench warfare so that was also really cool, since the Citadel Hill was mainly used around that era. I learned a lot here about the history of this interesting site and how it fit into the history of Canada and Halifax. read more

See all

A really big fort A gigantic fort located on top of a huge hill right in the middle of Halifax. It's also called The Citadel and you can't help but noticed it from anywhere in the area. It was built over many years during the first half of the 19th century and the view from the top is spectacular. You can drive up but if you decided to walk up from town it's a hell of a climb, but worth it. I have visited many forts over the years but this is easily the most impressive. It is not only huge but in great shape. You can get a guided tour or just walk around by yourself. My wife and I have gone several times and each time ended up spending hours in the place. They let you climb around the walls and guns or go into the thick buildings. They have guys in skirts walking around giving demonstrations and doing military things and they even blow off the incredibly loud guns from time to time. All the people working at the fort are friendly and knowledge and will take the time to answer stupid questions even have bathrooms and little gift shop tucked away deep inside one of the dark buildings. If you are interesting i history this is an absolutely musts when visiting Halifax. read more

Oh lord how I love this place. So here's the deal; I run. You see where I'm going with this right? This is one of my all time favorite places to break a sweat when I'm pounding the pavement. Nothing says a GREAT workout than running up that long (long long) incline, circumventing around the top and then running down that long (but it never lasts as long as going up) and then repeating it until I've covered myself in a beautiful sheen of sweat. Don't like that hill and want something a little more challenging? Head to the other side and conquer those steps and that even harder incline to the top. Salute those handsome boys guarding the gate then turn around and run your buns down the other side. Still not enough? Try going around the entire lower circumference of Citadel hill before conquering the hill (or stairs). Go around the bottom then go around the top and that will get you a good 3+ km run... Oh and hey if you see me there, strap on some running shoes and join me! read more

See all

Citadel Hill is one attraction that you have to check out if you're in the Halifax area. It is just one of the many historical site in this city but it is probably the most popular because of the way it towers over the city. The grounds of Citadel Hill are open for the public from May 7th to October 31st every year. During this time the hill comes to life with tour groups and school trips contributing most of the crowd. The tours are really interesting and the guides deserve praise for their expansive knowledge of Halifax history. At the end of the day or after a tour ends check out the coffee bar which serves your basic cup of joe or the regemental shop which is full of military and Halifax souvenirs. Hot Hint: Citadel Hill also has an archive that is open all year, and special events and receptions are available all year as well. read more

Citadel Hill - Taken from the Citadel Hill website - Parks Near Me - Halifax, Nova Scotia

I know Canada Day is not quite on the horizon; however, I think you should plan early by penciling in a trip to Citadel Hill on the 1st if July and I'll tell you why... it's free this day every year! Last summer, I went into the actual fort after having not visited it for well over a decade. It remains unchanged: reenactors dressed in military garb, old edifices for you to peruse, as well as a cafeteria so that you can eat some old fashioned food from the days of yore (this last assertion is not accurate - the food is just regular, everyday fare). It's a fun gander, not exactly a riveting experience but relatively enjoyable. I especially like when there are demonstrations with guns and the workers yell and treat the situation with dire respect; I appreciate when people really commit to what they're doing, no matter how silly it may be. When you're not forting it up, the Citadel offers great views of the city and is a top tourist destination. The hill is fantastic to run up and great to bike around. It's also a lovely place to bring a blanket in the summer and thumb through a magazine, or else in the winter, bring your GT and rocket down the snowy hillside. If you're bumming around town sans pocket-watch, take a peek up at the tower and you'll feel right as rain knowing what hour of the day it is. Citadel Hill: come for the history, stay for the grassy slopes. read more

Citadel Hill - Parks Near Me - Halifax, Nova Scotia

See all

Great stop, well worth visiting if you're in Halifax. The staff here are all very welcoming/friendly! There's a WWI trench exhibit that was great. The views from the top of the ramparts were nice. read more

Before I get into the review, I wanted to let you know how you can see the YouTube video of my trip: https://youtu.be/y0FIyzL0sCY During this trip we went to the see the celebrations of the Victorian Christmas. This is where the fort has additional activities beyond the normal scope of awesomeness this fort typically has. During Victorian Christmas, they are actors (as they usually do) in age appropriate apparel. They had live music with a 5 person band, and an area where you could dress up. You could easily spend half a day here if you took the time to read the material in the museums (they have two). Something new that I really loved was the trenches they had set up. Amazing recreation. Things you will see/do: Buildings - several buildings on site. Some are recreated to look like the original (barracks for example) which some are turned into museum exhibit spaces. Open center square - where you will see actors and events take place. Walk around the walls - see the Halifax Harbour and much of the city center and surrounding neighborhoods. Be sure to arrive and stay for the noon time canon fire. You can view the ritual from on top of the wall everyday at 12 noon. It's loud - so you'll know it happened inside and outside the fort! You can drive around the fort. There is no designated parking, but street parking is close. There are also several lots in and around the Citadel. Be prepared for lots of walking and stair climbing. Must climb the hill or take the stairs to the entrance at the top. All areas are wheelchair or stroller accessible as far as I'm aware. This site is open May 7 - Oct 31 Open 9-5 and 9-6 in July and August Adult Admission 18+: $11.70 Senior Admission :$10.05 Youth Free Costs are for the high season. Costs are lower in the shoulder seasons ($.7.80, $6.55) respectively. No wifi Be sure to like this post if you found it helpful! Write if you have any questions. read more

I have lived in Nova Scotia a large majority of my life and believe it or not have never officially been here. Okay well I did go to the Victorian Christmas but this is my first time touring the entire fort. Citadel Hill has a vast and rich history, this is one of the things I love so deeply about Nova Scotia. The Citadel is large and has amazing views, to be honest, the views were my favourite part. The staff that works there are full of knowledge and offer a great deal to the experience. My only complaint is there's not more rooms and stuff you can enter. Most of it is closed off which I found disappointing. I am sure many of the rooms are identical but still would like to see more exhibits set up. It's definitely a great place for tourists and locals alike and recommend it to everyone. read more

See all

Citadel Hill is arguable the centre of Halifax's existence. However, at the risk of getting a bit too political in a review, part of me feels somewhat bitter toward what I believe to be the thing that is preventing Halifax from advancing as a city. Looking beyond that, Citadel Hill has a lot to offer Halifax in any season. In the winter, it's got a great hill for sliding with a wonderous landing spot on the Garrison Grounds. In the summer, it's a great place to go tanning or just to hang out with friends in the afternoon sun. It's become part of a good workout regime for anyone trying to get, or stay in-shape, providing a good slope for running. Since the hill isn't so out of my way on my walk home from work, it provides me with that extra little bit of exercise as I walk up one side, go around the perimetre of the road at the top to the other side. AND, the site has also been known to host concerts before they started tackling the Halifax Common. So really, Citadel Hill is one of those every-person locations in Halifax. You like museums? There's one at the top of the hill! For about $7 or so, you can find out all about Halifax's history as part of the wars, as well as playing key roles to past wars in centuries past. I brought a visitor here a few years back and we spent an entire rainy afternoon here and I feel like I still rushed through most of what was offered. A true historian would need an entire weekend here at least to take in everything. I also enjoy the rumoured tunnels that lead from the hill to the waterfront. An urban legend? Maybe not, as I've read in a few books and as a quick Google search can provide. All I needed to do was think about the good that Citadel Hill has to offer and suddenly I'm not so bitter anymore. read more

Citadel Hill - From the Garrison Grounds - Parks Near Me - Halifax, Nova Scotia

Everyday at 12 when I am DT I say the same thing, what is the noise? Well that is the cannon going off for 12 o'clock noon time. Citadel Hill is a must for you tourist or just us Nova Scotians that have not been here since those tours in school. My BF loves this place so each year I find myself down in the centre of the confusion on Canada Day trying to fight the crowd for a piece of the cake. But after all is said and down and I walk the same paths as before I see or learn something new about this beautiful structure that we take for granted all the history that is housed in one location. Just to walk about the Hill and look out over the water or a view of DT in the night is beautiful and something that you must see. From weekends of kite flying to picnics on the hills the kids still get a thrill of rolling down the hills it is always something to see. read more

Citadel Hill - Parks Near Me - Halifax, Nova Scotia

See all

Well as you all know, the weather WAS starting to warm back in March and has now reverted back to its wintery ways... even on a blustery day though, if you bundle warmly, the Citadel can be a lovely place to go and sit. Lots of hustle and bustle to watch beneath while chilling out and enjoying the views. Saturday recommendation: Samosas from the market, your crush and a grassy little piece of Citadel. read more

You can't visit Halifax without making the hike up Citadel Hill. You'll pass the Clock Tower and catch an amazing view of downtown before making your way up to the Citadel. The hourly tours take you through, around, and inside the walls of the Citadel so you can get an overview of what life was like there. They also offer both French and English guides! The tour itself is brief, but there is still a lot to see. The rest of the place is self-guided; our guide told us, "If you see an open door, go in and look around! There should be someone in there to answer any of your questions." I honestly wish all tours were like that! We saw a lot of kids here, and they were the ones asking questions, getting involved, and really interested in learning more about the place. It's definitely a fun place to visit for all ages. For example, when we visited, there was a man standing in the center of the yard next to an old medical truck. We started asking questions, and he told us all about the repairs, what it's like to drive it around Halifax (hint: slow and uncomfortable), how difficult it's been to find parts, and even cranked it up to start it for us! So great to have that much access - it's so unusual. Now, if you're planning to visit -- and you should be because I'm very convincing -- I would strongly suggest that you try to make the 11am tour, because it finishes on top of the Citadel walls just before noon, and you'll get a prime spot to see/hear/feel when they blow the cannon! (I stood fairly close when they did it, and it was amazing!) read more

You can host an event here! I recommended on Facebook. Great service, great food and drinks and not too many people have attended an event here - so it's unique! Views! Open air! Sit down or stand up. Make a night your guests won't forget. Choose your room(s)! Sit down dinner or catered by Scanway. Parking for you and your guests - even overnight if need be so no drinking and driving. read more

For something that typically forms the backdrop of any tourism campaign for the region, this local has some serious love for Halifax's Citadel Hill. I love the green mound in the center of the city, I love the town clock, I love the noon gun, I love the sassy guard uniforms - I love it all. But do you want to know why I *really* love Citadel Hill? Because it's the first date destination of my dreams. Now, it's been a long time since I've had a first date and I may never have one ever again, so please consider this a gift to any of you singles who really need to hit it out of the ballpark. It's yours. 1. It's easy to find and couldn't be any more central. No getting lost, no directions needed, and no awkward conversations about 'well...I could pick you up?' / 'it's okay...I can take the bus...' 2. You can kick off the date by grabbing a coffee to go from any of the local cafes. Teas, coffees, smoothies, and everything in between are within your grasp, allowing you to sip through any uncomfortable silences with ease. 3. Strolling up the hill on a sunny day offers mega views of the city, gorgeous fresh air, and gives off the idea that you might be one of those people who enjoy physical activity whether you actually are or not. 4. Hungry? There's no better spot for a picnic. Pack a lunch or pick one up before you start for a picture perfect picnic that'll give you some serious indie cred. Seriously. You'll look like Zooey Deschanel and Joseph Gordon-Levitt combined. 5. Just a quick google search or previous trip through one of the city's many tours will give you enough trivia knowledge to spout out some smart-sounding Halifacts. For starters, it was designed like a star to give perfect aiming angles from all sides. For tips that aren't about gunning down invaders, maybe go with the whole flag system dealie. 6. If the date goes well, you're perfectly positioned to segue into dinner, drinks, or any other activity you like in the city because they're all right there in front of you. If it doesn't, there's no waiting for the cheque to arrive before you bounce. You're just a so long away from disappearing into the sunset. Enjoy, lovers. read more

Just don't walk by it at Noon. They shoot at you with a cannon. Yes they do fire off a cannon but I'm exaggerating about their aim. I'm sure the cannon isn't really loaded but it does make a very, very loud sound that echoes all over downtown Halifax and frightens people who don't know its coming. Citadel Hill was created to be a base of operations during war time. It had successfully never defended Halifax since there was no need to. But its still a proud part of our heritage. There are tours in the summer time where you can venture into this historic Fort and learn about the history of Citadel Hill and Halifax during the age when "The Hill" played an important role in defending Halifax. When you go on a tour you will most likely hear Bag Piper's and see soldiers in full dress uniform kilts. It is an amazing Fort to explore. For me what is surprising is that it is a Fort in the middle of the city! I don't know too many if any Historic Forts in North America that can boast that! If you don't want to go on a tour don't worry. Citadel Hill is also a great place to simply hike or run up and then take in the beautiful, 360 degree view of Halifax. In the summer time it is the best Hill to sunbathe on and is also a very popular spot for outdoor concerts. The Staff at Citadel Hill are very friendly and professional. I'm not sure if you are allowed to tip them or not, but if you get close enough to one, just slip then five bucks and wink at them. Or just slip them five bucks. The wink might be misinterpreted. There is also plenty of parking up there if you are going to go into the Fort itself. At the end of the day, Citadel Hill is a wonderful, historic, part of Halifax. You won't find any Fort like it in Canada or, to my knowledge, the United States. It is one of "the" places to see if you are a tourist. And if you live in Halifax, chances are you jog over it, sunbathe on it, let your dog run free or watch the sun set over Halifax. This is why it gets a five out of five stars. But then again, what other Fort in the middle of Halifax am I comparing it to? Oh well. You still deserve it Citadel. read more

Wandering around Halifax I made the walk uphill to check out the Citadel. The view is worth the walk. After making it up to the very top and up in front of the fort I decided that since the cost was minimal I should go check the whole thing out. I spent a few hours looking at the fort and the museums. I am not a huge military buff but I found it interesting, I think if you are into history you will find it enjoyable as well. Make sure that you walk up the outer stairs at the fort and walk around the top of the perimeter. read more

A wonderful landmark in a historic town, the Citadel is also an awesome place to watch a tattoo occur and learn from the great employees that are there. I only got to spend a little bit of time here while I was working a table at Tall Ships, but it was impressive enough that I'm going to visit again when I come back. Also, marching down from the Citadel to the waterfront with a drummer was one of the coolest things I got to do. The cannon isn't that loud, but I also work in a place where we fire one off twice a day, so maybe I'm immune :) read more

This is one of those must-see spots if you're visiting! They do a great job of bringing this space and history to life. The tours are worth it, as are the views. The Victorian Christmas at the Citadel is not to be missed and the noon-day cannon is unmistakeable. Even if you have already checked out the Citadel or aren't interested in history, you can walk up the hill and lay on the grass to enjoy the views or have a picnic! The clock tower is a Halifax icon and if you're here for Doors Open you can even go inside! (I've done this and it was really neat!) read more

Citadel Hill is one of the most important monuments/historical places in our entire country. From it's construction in 1749, the Citadel performed a valuable function in the defense of the British stronghold from the French. (Fortress Louisbourg, a few hours to the north, changed hands between the British and the French several times.) The history of Citadel Hill is presented in living colour through interpreters in period costumes. Men outfitted in the military uniform of the day "guard" the Citadel and also offer commentary as you tour the site. If you can, try to visit around noon in order to see the ceremonial firing of the cannon. It's quite an interesting sight, seeing the precision and routine involved in firing a 19th century gun. My favourite part of Citadel Hill is the trenches and passage ways built underground in the Hill. The bunkers and rifle sights are an eye-opening glimpse of what life was like for a British soldier. Admission prices have increased over the years, and it now costs a family $29.40 to visit. However, the opportunity to go back in time is priceless and should not be overlooked. read more

The city does a great job of keeping up the hill. The grass is always so well kept. Now to be fair I haven't actually been inside. I've only enjoyed many saturday afternoons on the side of the hill. Has an amazing view of downtown but is very peaceful. This is my favourite place to go hang out at on the weekend. read more

Citadel Hill - Parks Near Me - Halifax, Nova Scotia

See all

This citadel is such an amazing thing to have in the middle of a downtown area. It is essentially a giant hill that on top houses a fort that has been rebuilt since the 1700s. The walk up the hill to the fort itself is beautiful and very enjoyable. The admission price is honestly insane ($11.70 per adult) but there is so much to do inside that I can see how they get away with it. Inside there is people dressed in period clothing, several museums, a gift shop, cafe, and tons of opportunities to take photos. It is beautiful inside and really fun to walk around. We got to see people fire old rifles and listen to a bagpipe band. My only other complaint is that they discourage climbing out on the hill from inside the fort for safety reasons. The best views are at the highest hill points but they don't allow access to them. If you stand near the exit rope though you can still get a really good view though. I saw it once and walked around for 1 and a half hours. I probably wouldn't go back but I am not much of a military history buff. This place almost made me become one though. Their army museum is very, very interesting. read more