Halifax Farmers' Market was established in 1750. This market is one of the oldest of its kind in the continent that is still in operation. It is home to over 250 vendors and features local and organic products. Peruse the market for fresh produce, cheese, meats, seafood, baked items, coffee, spirits, and crafts. Their maple products make for trademark Canadian souvenirs.
For tourists who wish to explore the coastal city of Halifax in a unique way, I Heart Bikes is a must-visit site. This company offers cycle tours around the city lasting two to four hours, which help you discover the best attractions, restaurants and shops. Couples and small groups opting for private tours can enjoy the customized services of a knowledgeable tour guide. These guided tours are really meant for a tourist who wants a quick overview of the city. If you would like to take your own time exploring Halifax and linger at favorite tourist spots, then I Heart Bikes offers cycle rentals. However, the guided tour takes you to hidden gems that are hard to discover by yourself. This company also manages a shop selling bells, baskets and other bicycle accessories.
Minutes from downtown Halifax and easily accessible by bus, Halifax Shopping Centre has all the departmental stores, clothing shops (including the largest Gap in the Maritimes), electronics, games and hobbies, books, and food services you want. Having opened in 1962, this shopping center has become a favorite among the locals. There is plenty of parking, some just for expectant moms and those with young children.
If you are looking to shop on your tour to Canada, Historic Properties is a must-visit place. Alternatively known as Privateers' Wharf, the Historic Properties is a group of about ten warehouses that were constructed around the 19th Century. This space is a one-stop-shop for all your shopping needs. Be it fashion, beauty or art, this place has it all. Housing popular stores like Carrefour, Bounty Fashion and many more, this place has something for everyone. After the exhaustive shopping, you can enjoy delectable delicacies at the various restaurants that the property has.
After the Halifax Explosion in 1917, the Hydrostone District was created and, within that area, The Hydrostone Market stands. A Federal Heritage Site, it has won the Nova Scotia Heritage Award and is well worth a stroll. Nine shops of pastries, woven treasures, household accessories, gourmet tasties and more, nestle side by side. Shop for a while and have a lunch outside on a sunny day. Wander about the neighborhood, it is truly one of a kind. Business hours vary but most shops are open seven days a week.
The Hydrostone District is the name of a neighborhood towards the northern limit of the city. Designed by architect Thomas Adams, it began as a community to accommodate the survivors of the Halifax Explosion of 1917. Constituting mainly of middle-class families, the residential neighborhood featured many row-houses and duplex homes. Today, Hydrostone forms a vibrant community of creative professionals with smaller families and also major businesses like restaurants, retail shops and much more. The area is also highly popular among shoppers as it has several boutiques, specialty shops and is home to the historic Hydrostone Market.
Biscuit General Store is a locally owned, independent boutique and department store which offers a range of trendy dresses and accessories for both men and women. Along with fashionable designs by other brands, the boutique has its own line of women's clothing called Bonanza- by Biscuit. The shop is also a great place to look for chic shoes, gift items and cosmetics.
Fireworks Gallery, a Victorian era shop, is the ultimate destination to shop for some excellent jewelry. The range offered and the designs available are simply amazing. Whether you like diamonds, sapphires, emerald or ruby, this store sure has something for every taste. The Aquamarine Diamond Ring is one of the best, and is sure to make a few heads turn, wherever you go. The highly skilled resident goldsmiths come up with unique designs, have blended old world techniques, like hand engraving and filigree, with today's state of the art technology. So, flaunt your style statement by visiting this jewelry store in the city's downtown historic district.
The building that houses the Halifax location of MEC sports the same green color as the brand's identity, hence it isn't difficult to locate on Granville Street. Whatever your requirement for your next outdoor excursion, you can be sure to find every item on your itinerary here. From clothing like jackets, sweaters and swim wear to sturdy climbing shoes, bikes, helmets, snowboards, trekking poles and even dry suits are available. The store has a vast layout thus ensuring ease in browsing.
Artistic types could be happily lost in this grand store for hours, surrounded by paints and canvas, brushes, framing materials and books to tell you how to do paint if you don't already know. Tons of supplies for arts and crafts at DeSerres will please the professional and hobbyist alike. It is difficult to imagine a better selection anywhere else. Staff is knowledgeable and eager to help. A great place for gifts and something to keep the kids busy on a rainy day.
Drala Books & Gifts is the place to find items created especially for the spiritual side of your life. It is an interesting little shop if you want books on Buddhism for the novice or the long-time practitioner. There is also a fine selection of ornaments and home decor items like lamps, candles and wind chimes for decorating your home. So come by to buy things here that are not easy to come by elsewhere.
Opened in 1988, The Black Market Boutique is owned and run by a bohemian couple whose passion for travel is reflected in the eccentricity of their shop. Their eclectic collection from funky jewelry, trinkets to quirky gifts and accessories, ethnic wear and handicrafts showcases the various places of their travels. If you are looking for something unusual and affordable, then this is the place to be