Where to Hear Live Music in Halifax, Plus Sight-Seeing, and Dining
Explore Halifax's vibrant heart through its diverse live music scene, from intimate blues clubs to lively pubs and dedicated music venues. This guide also highlights local culinary gems, charming cafes, and cultural spots, offering a well-rounded taste of the city's unique character.
Bearly’s House of Blues
A renowned blues bar that has been a staple in Halifax for decades, recently relocating and continuing to offer a great atmosphere for live music.
The Local Restaurant & Bar
A popular restaurant and bar known for its diverse crowd and lively 'Gin and Jazz' nights on Wednesdays.
The Narrows Public House
A public house in a historic building offering traditional East Coast cuisine and live music on select nights.
The Carleton
A well-regarded music venue and restaurant in Halifax, hosting a variety of local and touring musicians.
Le French Fix cafe
A charming local bakery on Prince Street known for its homemade pastries, excellent coffee, and tea in a relaxed atmosphere.
Art Gallery of Nova Scotia
Home to over 19,000 pieces and exhibitions of local art, including a significant permanent exhibit on the iconic Nova Scotian artist Maude Lewis.
Bluenose II Restaurant
A classic, institutional restaurant in Halifax known for its full menu, especially its plentiful seafood options.
Market Mall
A mall near the harbor featuring specialty stores like clothing and jewelry shops, a restaurant, and a unique book and souvenir shop with local items.
Halifax Marriott Harbourfront Hotel
A popular hotel located by the Halifax harbor, offering great views and comfortable rooms, often used for conferences.
2 Doors Down Food & Wine
A trendy wine bar serving wonderful dishes, including an excellent Atlantic Seafood linguini, and a good selection of local beers.
Compass Distillers
A distillery and bar offering upscale cocktails made with their own spirits, and also selling bottles of their gin, vodka, and other liquors.
Halifax Ferry to Dartmouth
A 10-minute ferry ride across the harbor connecting Halifax and Dartmouth, offering great city views and an easy transit option.
New Scotland Brewing Co.
A brewery in Dartmouth that serves great craft beer and offers excellent food, such as their highly praised Lorenzo's Fried Chicken.
Renegade Records
A music store in Dartmouth offering a vast collection of used music across various formats like vinyl, CDs, tapes, and DVDs.
Ferry Terminal Park
A park in Dartmouth providing excellent views back towards Halifax, and also commemorating the historic Halifax Explosion with monuments.
Queen's Marquee District
A developing district near the Halifax harbor featuring new art installations and several restaurants and stores, anticipated to be a vibrant summer destination.
Halifax Brewery Market
A historic market building that hosts a lively farmers market on Saturdays, offering local produce, crafts, food, and the opportunity to take the Alexander Keith Brewery Tour.
Alexander Keith Brewery Tour
A tour available at the Halifax Brewery Market that delves into the history of the Alexander Keith Brewery.
Old Triangle Irish Ale House
A well-known pub in Halifax that features live traditional Irish music and a welcoming atmosphere.
Dirty Nelly's
A historic pub in Halifax, known for being one of the oldest bars in the city and offering live music.
Split Crow Tavern
Claiming the title of the oldest bar in Halifax, this tavern provides a historic pub experience often accompanied by live music.
Seahorse Tavern
A top-tier music venue in Halifax, often hosting a great lineup of both local and touring artists.
Marquee
A premier Halifax music venue that consistently features a strong lineup of diverse musical acts.