Point Pleasant Park
 Sailor's Monument in Point Pleasant Park |
Perched on the southern tip of Halifax, Point Pleasant Park has been is a local favourite since 1749, although its woodland walks and views over the harbour weren’t officially made part of a public park until 1866.
A network of trails weave all over Point Pleasant Park. You’re likely to stumble across old fortifications, built by the British to protect the harbour from enemy attack.
The park is perfect for cycling, picnics or even skiing in the winter.
Every summer, theatre company Shakespeare by the Sea uses the park as its stage for productions of the bard’s works.
In November, the Sailors Monument is a focal point for Remembrance Day ceremonies.
In 2003, Point Pleasant Park was badly damaged by Hurricane Juan. A lot of work has been done to put things right but the trees aren’t as thick as they once were.
Bathroom facilities exist but aren’t always nearby or very appealing. It’s better to go before you leave home.
Admission: Free
Opening hours: Year round, all day
Directions: You can take bus route 9 (Barrington) to Point Pleasant park. It’s about a 10 minute ride from downtown Halifax. A convenient place to catch the bus is at the corner of Duke and Barrington streets, just uphill from the Halifax ferry terminal. See the Metro Transit website for schedules. Otherwise, it’s easy to drive or ride a bicycle to Point Pleasant Park. From the Halifax waterfront, hug the coastline by following Lower Water Street and then Terminal Road until you reach the park.
Website: Point Pleasant Park