Housed within the Dalhousie Arts Centre of the eponymous university, the Dalhousie Art Gallery holds an eclectic array of artwork across historical and contemporary categories. The gallery was formally established in 1953, and its permanent collection of eminent artwork is as old. It was retrieved through bequests, donations and purchases, and is framed for display here. Some of the oldest collections include the 'Red Bird and Red Maple', engraved by John James Audubon and a sketch by Alexander Young Jackson titled 'Georgian Bay Shore'. There is also a contemporary collection curated by upcoming artists. In an effort to advance the educational and research aspect of this program, the gallery is known to often host lectures, seminars and panel discussions in its premises.
Martinique Beach Provincial Park is set next to the distinctly crescent-shaped Martinique Beach. It stretches five kilometers (3.1 miles) along the Nova Scotia coast, making it the longest beach in the province. The park protects such species as the Piping Plover and serves as a migratory site for various waterfowl. While Martinique Beach is a popular spot for amateur and experienced surfers, those who prefer to stay dry can follow boardwalks that unlock the beach's beauty and tranquility. Also popular is beach-combing for hidden treasures, an activity enjoyed by kids and adults alike, and carried out for both commercial and recreational purposes.
In operation since 2014, the Halifax Central Library is an expansive public library comprising of five floors and covering a floor space of 11,000 square meters (120,000 square feet). Designed by Fowler Bauld and Mitchell and Schmidt Hammer Lassen of Denmark, the building boasts of a cantilever on the top floor that hangs over the entrance, an atrium lit up by natural light during the day, numerous stairs and walkways, glass windows as well as a rooftop terrace from where one can enjoy stunning views of the city. Resembling rows of books stacked on top of each other, the building has won several awards for its design and not only is the library a prominent local landmark but a well-known tourist attraction as well. As for the interiors, the library boasts of community rooms, computer labs with touchscreen monitors and a wide range of books from fictional and nonfictional titles to course books and children’s books. If you are wondering where to begin exploring the city, then heading to the Halifax Central Library can be a great idea.
Home to the Anchor Archive zine library, the InkStorm screenprinting collective and the Sad Rad all ages venue, RadStorm is a collaborative art space that opens its arms to all and sundry. The arts collective hosts an artists' residency program that attracts a diverse following, but is best known as an all ages venue for live music. The venue showcases local, budding talents in a open and welcoming space that reaches out to a younger audience that is often neglected by the city's mainstream venues. Apart from concerts, RadStrom also hosts jam sessions, workshops and other intriguing arts events.
To walk through the iron gates of The Halifax Public Gardens is to step back a century; Canada's first public gardens have that effect. Since 1867, visitors have enjoyed the flowers, trees, fountains, a pond and winding paths. Sit on a bench near the Victorian bandstand and listen to the music and marvel at the beauty of a huge Rhododendron in bloom. Bring lunch, you'll want to stick around. one thing to remember while visiting the park is that opening times vary in the winter and summer seasons.
The 'Last Corvette', HMCS Sackville is a memorial to all who served in the Canadian Navy. During World War II she spent her time escorting convoys to Ireland and met with quite a few adventures. Visitors are welcome aboard each summer to explore the fully restored ship, which is docked just behind the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic. A stamp commemorating the vessel was brought into circulation in 1998 and it was later even used as a model for a popular mainstream movie.