Point Pleasant Park

Point Pleasant is one of Canada's finer urban parks, and there's no better place for a walk along the water on a balmy day. This 73-hectare (180-acre) park occupies a wooded peninsula today, but for years it actually served as one of the linchpins in the city's military defense. Look carefully and you'll find the ruins of early forts, plus a nicely preserved Martello tower. (Halifax still has a 999-year lease from Great Britain for this park, for which it pays 1 shilling -- about US10¢ -- per year.) You'll also find a lovely gravel carriage road around the point, a small swimming beach, miles of walking trails, and groves of graceful fir trees. The park is located about 2km (1 1/4 miles) south of the Public Gardens. Take note, though, that no bikes are allowed in here on weekends or holidays; you'll need to use pedi-power.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.