Worth the uphill climb, the Citadel’s stone fortress offers amazing views of the city and the harbor to its visitors. The view from the Citadel will show you the amazing architecture of downtown between the hilltop and harbor; the harbor’s mouth of wooded islands; and the naval dockyard under the Angus L. Macdonald Bridge, which connects Halifax and Dartmouth. Just 9 blocks from the waterfront, the Citadel has been restored to look much as the fort did in 1856.
You’ll find thick granite walls topped by grassy embankments; in the large cobblestone courtyard you'll find costumed people in kilts and bearskin hats playing bagpipes and firing the noon cannon – a grand tradition since 1749. Find out what life was like at the fort, as tours will show you the barracks and other chambers. While meandering through the halls, stop a soldier, bagpiper, or washerwoman and ask them any questions you may have.
Test your taste buds at its coffee bar that serves typical 19th-centruy soldiers’ foods. Guided tours are available and changing of the guard is done in the summer. This National Historic Site is the most heavily visited in Canada, and it's easy to see why.
Citadel Hill Hours of Operation
May 7 to June 30 - 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
July 1 to August 31- 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
September 1 to October 31 - 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
November 1 to May 6, the grounds are open but no services are available.
Citadel Hill Directions and Location
From the Halifax Waterfront, simply walk up hill. Look for the Town Clock at the base of Citadel Hill and the signal flags flying atop the ramparts. Climb the Town Clock steps, and you'll find the bridge entrance to your right. If you're coming by car from Highway 102 or 103, take Exit 1A and proceed to downtown Halifax. The site entrance is located near the corner of Sackville and Brunswick Streets
Citadel Hill Parking
Paid parking ($3.25 per visit) for 80 cars is available inside the Fort's West Ditch. Tour buses and recreational vehicles can park in designated areas. Designated parking for visitors with disabilities is available.
Citadel Hill Guided Tours
Guided tours of the Citadel Hill provide a comprehensive overview of the fort and its history. Experienced, informative guides will show you around the site and point out significant features of the fort's structure and design. Guides will explain the evolution of military armament, the living and working conditions of the military personnel stationed at the fort, and the role of Halifax as an important British naval and military base in the 19th century. Tours are 45 minutes to one hour in length and are available in English or French.
Halifax Citadel National Historic Site
P.O. Box 9080, Station A
Halifax, Nova Scotia B3K 5M7
Tel: 902-426-5080
Fax: 902-426-4228
The Citadel is at 5425 Sackville and Brunswick Streets. Entrances are on Sackville Street and Rainnie Drive.
