Things to Do

Nova Scotia is a haven for leisure and lifestyle activities. Its natural beauty, outstanding outdoor activities, and exciting nightlife attract more than 2 million visitors every year.

In Nova Scotia we are lucky to experience the beauty of all four seasons – spring, summer, fall and winter.

From swimming, boating and walking to enjoying great hiking trails, ski hills, and skating facilities, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

There are also many campgrounds and charming towns with inviting inns and bed and breakfasts, which are never more than a short drive from wherever you are in the province.

Sports and recreation

Sports and recreation contribute to a healthy lifestyle. Participating in organized sports and recreational activities is also a good way to meet new friends. To find organizations throughout Nova Scotia that have sports and recreational programs for the whole family, visit Sport Nova Scotia and Recreation Nova Scotia.

National and provincial parks

We have 2 National Parks, the Cape Breton Highlands and Kejimkujik National Park. Both are considered among the most beautiful spots in Canada.

There are also many provincial parks in Nova Scotia. The Nova Scotia Provincial Parks website contains information on all of our provincial parks, including driving directions, pictures and handy tips for visitors.

There is one Provincial Wildlife park in Nova Scotia. It is called the Shubenacadie Wildlife Park and it is home to 45 different wildlife exhibits, 33 species of mammals, and 65 species of birds.

Museums, arts and entertainment

Nova Scotia understands entertainment. We have a proud tradition of music, dance, live theatre and house parties called ceilidhs (pronounced “kay-lees”, Scots Gaelic for “gathering”). We have also produced many wonderful painters, sculptors and craftspeople. Museums, galleries, studios, nightclubs, pubs, festivals, and theatres located across the province showcase our heritage, our traditions and local, national and international artists and performers.

Entertainment Resources:

Public libraries

Public libraries are funded by the provincial and municipal governments and are open to all. The Nova Scotia Provincial Library website contains a map of over 78 public libraries in Nova Scotia.

Everyone in Nova Scotia has free access to the Nova Scotia Public Library System. You can only borrow books from the library if you have a library card, which is free. All library loans have a time limit. Children under age 15 require signature of a parent or guardian to obtain a library card.

NovaNet is the group of academic libraries of Nova Scotia. To obtain a NovaNet borrowers card, you must be a resident of Nova Scotia, be 18 years of age or older, and provide proof of a current Nova Scotia address.

One Place to Look is an online source that provides access to the catalogues of all the Regional Public Libraries in Nova Scotia.