James MartinAs someone who grew up picnicking and sliding down the slopes of Citadel Hill, this iconic site has always held a special place in my heart. Sure, I might be a little biased, but it’s truly one of the most captivating landmarks in all of Nova Scotia.
Standing atop this hill, you’re not only treated to sweeping views of modern Halifax but also immersed in the rich narratives of its past.
The Citadel’s well-preserved architecture and engaging exhibits bring to life the stories of our maritime heritage while its current role as a vibrant cultural site connects visitors with the city’s ever-evolving identity.
I’m excited to take you around this iconic landmark. Buckle up for a fun and fascinating journey with the help of our guide to Citadel Hill in Halifax.
About Citadel Hill
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Website: https://parks.canada.ca/lhn-nhs/ns/halifax
Location: 5425 Sackville Street
Phone: +1 902 426 5080
Opening hours: Daily 9 am to 5 pm
A symbol of our resilience and pride, the Citadel is a striking star-shaped fortress perched on top of a hill. It’s where Halifax’s past and present beautifully intertwine.
Here, the past comes alive through reenactments, interactive demos, and our favorite, period uniforms. Walking through the historic fortress, you quickly get a vivid sense of the military and colonial past that shaped the city.
While it does give you a captivating journey through time, Citadel Hill isn’t just a relic of the past. It’s an important backdrop for community gatherings and celebrations, whether it be summertime picnics or winter sledding.
Without a doubt, the Citadel represents a bridge between Halifax’s rich history and its lively, evolving culture today.
How to Get to Citadel Hill
Walk: Citadel Hill is located at the heart of Halifax. You can easily reach it on foot within a few minutes if you’re staying downtown.
Car: From Stanfield International Airport, Citadel Hill is approximately 30 minutes away. Just hop on Highway 102 South from Bell Boulevard and continue onto Goudrey Drive.
Take the ramp on the left to Highway 102 and merge onto Bell Boulevard. Go on the ramp to Halifax/Dartmouth, taking Highway 102 before continuing onto Highway 118.
Stay on this road until you reach the Angus McDonald Bridge. Once you’ve crossed to Halifax, take Barrington Street to Brunswick Street, where Citadel Hill is located.
Bus: If you’re commuting from Stanfield International Airport to Citadel Hill, the entire trip takes about an hour. Hop on Bus 320 on Silver Dart Drive, which will take you to downtown Halifax.
Stop at Duke Street Before Albermarle Street (9061). From here, you can reach Citadel Hill on foot in 8 minutes or less.
Where to Park in Citadel Hill
Car Parking: Enter the back entrance on the west side, facing Ahern Avenue and Bell Road. The parking space is located on the lower level of the site.
Bus Parking: On the same lower-level parking space, there are designated spots that can fit larger vehicles, such as tour buses and recreational vehicles.
Accessible Parking: For persons with disabilities, you’ll find accessible parking at the front entrance/exit, which is on the Citadel’s southeast side, facing the Old Town Clock. The parking lots are right by the front entrance kiosk.
Things to Do in Citadel Hill
Explore the Halifax Citadel.
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To explore the Halifax Citadel, you’ll have to pay an admission fee worth $13.25 for adults and $11.25 for seniors during the peak season. During the shoulder season, tickets are cheaper, costing $9 per adult and $7 for seniors.
The Youth can explore the Halifax Citadel for free all year round.
With your admission fee, you can sign up for a guided walking tour. They run from May to October, with daily schedules posted at the Visitor Information Center.
Just for 45 to 60 minutes, a guide dressed in historic clothing will show you around the exhibits and period rooms, explaining their significance. You also get to hear personal accounts of soldiers’ daily life.
If you prefer to explore the fortress at your own pace, you are welcome to do so. Make sure to download a digital map on your mobile device, so you can easily find your way around the Citadel.
Sign up for a ghost tour.
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The ghost tour at the Citadel is one of the best things you can do in Halifax at night. It’s just you and a small group of people led by a guide dressed in a Citadel guard’s uniform.
Surely, shivers will go down your spine as you explore dimly lit corridors and prison cells with nothing but lanterns to light up your way. You will also share stories of paranormal sightings and other recorded hauntings throughout the years.
Slots for these tours are usually pretty limited so get your tickets while you can.
Go on a picnic on the hill.
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The grassy hillside around the Citadel is part of the Halifax Commons, which is open to the public. We usually come here in the summer to soak up some sun or watch the sun set over the harbor.
Since there aren’t picnic tables around, don’t forget to bring a picnic blanket so you can sit on the grass. If you don’t have time to prep your food and refreshments, you can get lunch to-go at the Halifax Citadel Coffee Bar or other nearby restaurants.
Go sledding.
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Sledding on Citadel Hill is an exhilarating winter experience, which many Haligonians grow up doing. There’s a lot of space and different inclines, offering a mix of easy and daring rides for all skill levels.
The panoramic views of Halifax Harbor and the pure, unadulterated joy of sliding down snow-covered slopes make it an unforgettable adventure.
Join the Holiday Candlelight tour.
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Another annual event you can look forward to at the Citadel is the Holiday Candlelight tour, which usually takes place throughout December.
You will go around the fortress by candlelight, but it won’t be spooky like the ghost walk. Instead of scary tales, you can enjoy lantern shows and stories of the military’s holiday traditions over a crackling fire.
Plus, you can warm up with some hot chocolate.
Where to Eat Near Citadel Hill
The Bicycle Thief
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Website: http://bicyclethief.ca/
Location: 11475 Lower Water Street
Phone: +1 902 425 7993
Opening hours: Daily 11:30 am to 11 pm
Proximity: About a 20-minute walk from Citadel Hill
Must-Try: Slow-roastedSlow roasted pork ribs, seafood pasta, and crab ravioli
Special Feature: An extensive wine list and a cozy, eclectic ambiance
The Bicycle Thief is a beloved restaurant known for serving North American comfort foods with Italian flavors. Everyone comes here to indulge in their seafood dishes and unique pasta creations along with a glass of wine.
Located just a short walk from Citadel Hill, it offers a warm, inviting atmosphere, perfect for a relaxed meal. We like that they have patio seating, where you can enjoy their delicious food under the summer sun.
Salvatore’s Pizzaiolo Trattoria
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Website: http://www.salvatorespizza.ca/
Location: 1580 Argyle Street
Phone: +1 902 455 1133
Opening hours: Mon 4 pm to 10 pm, Tue-Sat 11:30 am to 10 pm
Proximity: About a 30-minute walk from Citadel Hill
Must-Try: Margherita pizza, cannoli, triple chocolate cheesecake
Special Feature: Handmade pizzas with high-quality ingredients and a welcoming atmosphere
Salvatore’s Pizzaiolo Trattoria offers New York-style pizzas and sandwiches, all handmade using fresh ingredients. It’s only a short stroll from Citadel Hill, making it a convenient choice for an affordable and hearty meal before you set out for the day.
You can never go wrong with the original pizza, which is a simple thin-crust pie with garlic-infused olive oil, mozzarella, tomato sauce, parmesan, and fresh herbs. If you want to add other toppings, you have quite a wide selection to choose from.
Service can be a little slow sometimes, especially if the place is packed. However, it’s worth the wait.
The Press Gang Restaurant & Oyster Bar
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Website: http://thepressgang.net/
Location: 5218 Prince Street, Halifax, NS
Phone: +1 902 423 8816
Opening hours: Tue-Wed 5 pm to 10 pm, Thu-Sat 5 pm to 11 pm
Proximity: Around a 10-minute walk from Citadel Hill
Must-Try: Fresh oysters and the Press Gang seafood chowder
Special Feature: Historic ambiance and a focus on fresh, local seafood
Are you brave enough to wine and dine at one of the most haunted places in Halifax(Halifax haunted places)? If you can muster enough courage, the Press Gang can offer you a night full of fresh oysters, seafood, steak, and intrigue.
Housed in a historic building with charming exposed brick and rustic wooden beams, it has a surprisingly warm, intimate atmosphere. Despite all the spooky stories, it’s a great place for a romantic evening.
Where to Stay Near Citadel Hill
The Lord Nelson Hotel & Suites
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Website: https://lordnelsonhotel.ca/
Location: 1515 South Park Street, Halifax, NS
Phone: +1 902 423 6331
Proximity: A 12-minute walk to Citadel Hill
Amenities: Fitness center, restaurant, and conference facilities
The Lord Nelson is a charming blend of historic elegance and modern comfort, embodying the best of Halifax’s urban allure. Inside, you’ll be greeted with beautiful rooms and luxurious amenities, including a renowned restaurant and a cozy lounge.
What we like the most about the hotel is its prime location, which offers easy access to Citadel Hill and other attractions like the Halifax Public Gardens.
With its blend of timeless sophistication and contemporary convenience, the Lord Nelson provides a memorable stay that captures the essence of Halifax’s historic charm and vibrant spirit.
The Prince George Hotel
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Website: https://www.princegeorgehotel.com/
Location: 1725 Market Street
Phone: +1 800 565 1567
Proximity: A 5-minute walk to Citadel Hill
Amenities: Indoor pool, fitness center, restaurant, and business services
Located a block away from the Old Town Clock, The Prince George Hotel is a quick 5-minute walk from Citadel Hill. Aside from its central location, its modern design and top-notch amenities make it a favorite for both business and leisure travelers.
The hotel offers sleek, contemporary rooms equipped with upscale amenities, including a state-of-the-art fitness center and an indoor pool. It also has one of the best patios in the city, where you can enjoy meals and cocktails in the fresh air.
What makes it stand out from the rest is its attentive service, ensuring a stay that is both relaxing and enriching.
The Hollis Halifax – a DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Hotel
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Website: https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/yhzhhdt-the-hollis-halifax/
Location: 1649 Hollis Street
Phone: +1 902 429 7233
Proximity: About a 12-minute walk to Citadel Hill
Amenities: Suites with kitchenettes, fitness center, and complimentary breakfast
The Hollis Halifax offers a more contemporary, suite-style experience. Each suite has all the comforts of home, such as a separate living area, a fully equipped kitchenette, and modern furnishings, making it a great choice for families and extended visits.
Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, its range of amenities can add to the ease of your stay. It has a 24-hour fitness center, an indoor pool, on-site dining, and complimentary Wi-Fi.
Like other hotels on our list, it’s within walking distance of key attractions, shopping centers, and dining options in Halifax.
