One of the finest surviving examples of a Victorian Garden in North America, the Halifax Public Gardens was established in 1836
From spring blooms and colourful summer colours to autumn’s fall foliage and peacefulness of the space in winter, the gardens are appreciated year-round
Recognized as a National Historic Site in 1984.
Overview
Located in the heart of the city, the Halifax Public Gardens is one of the finest surviving examples of a Victorian Garden in North America. Stroll the Gardens’ many pathways as you take in 16 acres of tranquil beauty.
First established as the original garden space for the NS Horticultural Society in 1836, the Gardens grew to its present size and layout in 1875 through the work of original superintendent Richard Power. Recognized as a National Historic Site in 1984, the Halifax Public Gardens is a true gem that is loved by locals and visitors alike.
Today, the gardens offer an array of colour, from spring blooms of daffodils, tulips, and rhododendrons, to summertime’s colourful annuals, fragrant roses, a dazzling dahlia display and finally, autumn’s brilliant show of fall foliage. Stroll past tropical displays in the summer months, enjoy ornately planted annual flower beds, and the shady reprieve from the sunshine from the many heritage trees throughout the popular outdoor attraction to discover how this historic garden ensures there is always something of interest to see.
A large, ornate bandstand, is located in the center of the gardens and hosts free Sunday afternoon concerts during the summer months. Griffin’s pond is a prominent feature and is frequented by ducks, turtles, osprey and blue heron. There is a family lawn area where people are invited to picnic and play.
Halifax Public Gardens is wheelchair accessible. Wheelchairs for public use are available at the Horticultural Hall which also serves beverages and has public washrooms available.
Halifax Public Garden Rules
For the protection of the Halifax Public Gardens, please note the following rules when visiting:
Do not walk on the grass. The established pathways of the gardens form lovely, educational walks and the views from them display the gardens as they were meant to be seen in the Victorian Era.
The Family Lawn by the southeast gate (Spring Garden Road at Summer Street) is an area to picnic and relax and you are able to walk on the grass in this area only.
Please do not feed the ducks. It can make them dependent on humans for food which interferes with their natural spring and fall migratory patterns. There is plenty of natural food sources available for the ducks throughout the gardens.
No bicycles or scooters are allowed in the gardens and can be chained outside of the garden gates.
Jogging is not allowed within the gardens.
No pets permitted.
Date Details/Hours of Operation
May–November, 7 AM till one half hour prior to dusk; winter, 8 AM to 4 PM, weather permitting
Bay of Fundy & Annapolis Valley, Cape Breton Island, Eastern Shore, Halifax Metro, Northumberland Shore, South Shore, Yarmouth & Acadian Shores,Halifax
