Maritime Museum of the Atlantic Tours and Activities

Located on the city’s waterfront, Halifax’s Maritime Museum of the Atlantic is where you go to get schooled on Nova Scotia’s maritime heritage.

The ocean has shaped the lives of those living in the Maritimes for centuries, whether it’s through the fishery, boatbuilding, or the navy. Here there’s an emphasis placed on boats themselves, from small crafts to World War Convoys. Various exhibits will take you through the sailing days of the early explorers to the age of steam.

You’ll also learn about the catastrophic Halifax Explosion, which occurred in 1917. A French cargo ship filled with wartime explosives collided with a Norwegian vessel not far from the Halifax Harbour. An onboard fire caused an explosion that flattened the Richmond District, killing 2000 people and injuring another 9000. At the time, it was the largest man-made explosion recorded in history.

The museum’s biggest draw, however, is its Titanic connection. While the survivors of the sunken ship went to New York City, the deceased were brought to Halifax. Many belongings of the deceased are now on display inside the museum, including the heart wrenching tiny shoes of the “Unknown Child.” Crews working at the site also brought back pieces of the wreckage, including woodwork flotsam.