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Your Guide to a Relaxing Getaway at Queen’s Marque Halifax

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Queen’s Marque might seem like an intimidating space with its high-end restaurants, bars, and hotels, but it’s a community hub where everyone is welcome. 

If I’m not biking around the boardwalk, I like to sip my coffee with my toes dipped in Queen’s Landing, where the land meets the sea. With live music and dancing, the energy here is electric and infectious, perfect for times when I need a pick-me-up.

Below, I made a little guide to the Queen’s Marque in Halifax to help you explore the best of what this vibrant waterfront neighborhood has to offer. I’ll take you through my favorite spots to eat, where to stay, and what you absolutely can’t miss while here.

About Queen’s Marque Halifax

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Nestled along the Halifax waterfront, Queen’s Marque is a bustling neighborhood where you’ll find upscale boutiques, world-class restaurants, and luxury hotels. From sunrise to sunset, this district pulses with life.

While it’s a vision of modern development, it’s also a testament to Halifax’s rich maritime history and deep connection to the sea.

As you walk through the district, you’ll see that the city’s rich maritime past is carefully woven into its design from the locally sourced materials to the nautical elements, resembling the curves of a ship’s hull. 

The mix of old and new, the bustling energy, and the breathtaking views make Queen’s Marque a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the heart and soul of the city.

How to Get to Queen’s Marque in Halifax

The Queen’s Marque can be accessed by car through Lower Street. There are alternative entrances on either side of the district for pedestrians, which lead from George Street and Prince Street to the center courtyard. 

If you’re driving, you can park your car at the underground parking space next to the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic. It has 300+ spots, and it’s open 24/7.

Just get a ticket on the way in and pay as you exit the parking garage, which costs $5 per hour. 

Things to Do at Queen’s Marque in Halifax

Dip your feet in the water at Queen’s Landing.

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One of the joys of visiting Queen’s Marque is dipping your toes at Queen’s Landing and just enjoying a cup of coffee while admiring the views of the harbor.

This huge stairway leads into the water, providing an idyllic place to relax and soak up some sun during the warm months. Plus, it’s something you can do for free.

Although it might be tempting to jump into the water, we don’t recommend it. After all, this isn’t a public beach so there aren’t lifeguards around to help you in case of emergencies.

Watch the Tidal Beacon’s light show and other art installations.

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Queen’s Marque is adorned with several art installations honoring our rich maritime legacy and connection to the sea, which includes the Ballast Boxes, The Muntz, and The Siren’s Calling.

Towering over the harbor, you’ll see the iconic Tidal Beacon at the top of Rise Again. It illuminates during the changing of the tides in a 12-minute display of shimmering lights, making it a must-see attraction, especially for travelers.

Go kayaking or paddleboarding on the harbor.

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Halifax Harbor will always be one of the best spots for paddleboarding and kayaking in the entire city. You’ll see the city from an entirely new perspective.

The water near the harbor is usually pretty flat and calm, making it an ideal spot for beginners. If there aren’t a lot of people at Queen’s Landing, you can tow your equipment down the steps and launch easily.

Join the West Coast Swing Dancing on Mondays.

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Every Monday, you can join Haligonians dance to swing music under the stars from 6:30 to 9:30 in the evening. You’ll find a welcoming crowd, energetic music, and an open dance floor along the beautiful harbor.

It’s a casual, come-as-you-are vibe that celebrates community, music, and movement. Even if you have zero experience with swing dancing, you’re welcome to join the fun.

Watch a live music performance.

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Nearly every week in the summer, you’ll be treated to a rotating lineup of local musicians and bands. Whether it’s soulful jazz sets or lively acoustic music, these live shows make an excellent backdrop for summer evenings in the city.

Performances typically run for a couple of hours, drawing crowds who gather to enjoy the stunning harbor views, the warm sea breeze, and the rich sounds of Halifax’s diverse music scene.

Bike around the boardwalk.

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Halifax Harbor has one of the largest urban boardwalks in the world, spanning 4 km. It offers safe passage not just for bikers but also for joggers and other pedestrians enjoying leisurely strolls.

Whether you start or end your ride at Queen’s Marque, this scenic route is the perfect way to soak up the vibrant energy and ocean views. If you don’t have a bike, you can rent one at I Heart Bikes just a couple blocks down the road.

Where to Eat at Queen’s Marque in Halifax

Darya

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Website: https://www.daryahalifax.com/

Location: 1709 Lower Water St #110

Phone: +19023344874

Opening hours: 

Wed-Sat, 11:30 AM to 3 PM, 5 PM to 11 PM

Sun-Tue, 11:30 AM to 3 PM, 5 PM to 10 PM

Darya is an Eastern Mediterranean restaurant serving a wide variety of dishes focused on fresh, locally sourced ingredients and aromatic spices. From slow-cooked lamb to manti beef dumplings, every bite will whisk you away from Halifax.

We also like their extensive liquor menu, which ranges from craft cocktails to beers and ciders. Everything is carefully selected to pair well with their flavorful dishes.

Cafe Lunette

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Website: https://www.cafelunette.com/

Location: 1741 Lower Water St #160

Phone: +19023341300

Opening hours: 

Sun-Thu, 9 AM to 10 PM

Fri-Sat 9 AM to 11 PM

Cafe Lunette brings Parisian flair to the waterfront with French classics from onion soup and steak tartare to seafood bouillabaisse. For brunch lovers, the Croque Madame is a must-try—oozing with melted gruyere and bechamel sauce, it’s indulgence on a plate.

With its vintage-inspired décor, and an open kitchen that fills the air with tantalizing aromas, the vibe is effortlessly stylish yet very welcoming. It’s an ideal spot for a leisurely brunch, a quick espresso, or a romantic dinner.

ToriDori

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Website: https://toridorihalifax.com/

Location: 1715 Lower Water Street

Phone: +19024743005

Opening hours: 

Sun, Wed-Thu, 11:30 AM to 12 AM

Fri-Sat, 11:30 AM to 2 AM

“Authentic but never traditional” is how ToriDori describes its cuisine. From crispy spam musubi to beef tongue skewers, their menu offers refreshing takes on well-loved classics, ideal for adventurous foodies looking to sample something new.

Like their menu, the vibe inside ToriDori is a blend of modernity and casual comfort. It’s the kind of place where you can gather with friends for lunch dates or late-night drinks.

Where to Stay at Queen’s Marque in Halifax

Muir, Autograph Collection

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Website: https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/yhzak-muir-autograph-collection/

Location: 1709 Lower Water Street

Phone: +19024076847

Amenities: Bar and restaurant, halotherapy salt room, exclusive yacht tours

Muir, which means sea in Gaelic, one of the languages spoken in Nova Scotia, is a luxurious hotel known for its impeccable service and high-end amenities. 

It offers exclusive yacht tours, 24-hour in-room dining, and car services to make your stay in Halifax comfortable and truly memorable. 

Inspired by the coast’s natural beauty, its rooms come in soft greys, seafoam, and mossy greens, creating a calming atmosphere for a restful sleep. The sweeping views of the harbor are the cherry on top of this luxurious experience.

The Residences

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Website: https://residences.queensmarque.com/

Location: 1715 Lower Water Street

Phone: +19024224424

Amenities: Vitality pool and salt room, media room, common living room library, and exclusive terrace

Another extraordinary hotel you’ll find at Queen’s Marque is The Residences. Its suites have open-concept layouts, fully equipped kitchens, and spa-like bathrooms, providing all the comforts of home—elevated to a luxurious standard.

Each space is expansive, with floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the interiors with natural light and offer breathtaking views of the bustling waterfront. 

As a resident, you can use their state-of-the-art fitness center, private lounge, and concierge services. Such amenities ensure that you have the highest level of comfort and convenience throughout your stay.