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Historic Properties: Halifax's Waterfront Heritage

Explore Halifax's waterfront heritage at Historic Properties: boutique shopping, gourmet dining, and East Coast entertainment in a National Historic Site.

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Experience Halifax's rich maritime history at Historic Properties, a collection of restored 19th-century warehouses transformed into a vibrant shopping and dining destination. This National Historic Site offers a glimpse into the city's past as a bustling port and privateering hub.

A brief summary to Historic Properties

Local tips

  • Explore the character-filled shops for unique, locally crafted items and souvenirs.
  • Check out the informative plaques detailing the significance of each building and its role in Halifax's history.
  • Enjoy the waterfront views and vibrant atmosphere, with street performers and local artists adding to the ambiance.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk, simply walk north along the water. Historic Properties is located between the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic and the Halifax Seaport Farmers' Market. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes and offers scenic harbor views.

  • Public Transport

    Take any Halifax Transit bus to a stop near Upper Water Street in downtown Halifax. From there, it's a short walk to Historic Properties. A single adult fare is $3. Tickets can be purchased using the HFXGO app or with exact change on the bus.

  • Taxi

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available throughout Halifax. A short taxi ride from downtown Halifax to Historic Properties will cost approximately $10-$15, plus an initial charge of $4.70. Taxi fares can be paid via debit, credit, or cash.

Unlock the Best of Historic Properties

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Discover more about Historic Properties

Historic Properties, located on Halifax's waterfront, is a unique blend of history and modern commerce. This National Historic Site comprises three city blocks of Canada's oldest surviving waterfront warehouses, showcasing Victorian-Italianate facades from the late 1700s and early 1800s. Originally constructed during the Napoleonic Wars, these warehouses played a vital role in Halifax's prosperity, serving as hubs for trade, commerce, and even privateering. Merchants like Enos Collins, a prominent privateer and shipper, established businesses here, defying Napoleon's blockade. The area became known as Privateer's Wharf, a bustling center of activity. By the 1960s, the buildings had fallen into disrepair and were slated for demolition. Fortunately, in 1963, they were designated a National Historic Site, saving them from destruction. Today, Historic Properties offers a variety of boutique shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues, all housed within the beautifully restored historic buildings. Visitors can explore the cobblestone walkways, admire the architecture, and learn about the area's rich maritime past.

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