Halifax Citadel National Historic Site
In the heart of downtown Halifax, this strategic hilltop fort offers a commanding view of Halifax Harbour. Step back to 1869 and immerse yourself in the social and military history of Halifax with the 78th Highlanders and the 3rd Brigade Royal Artillery. Learn about the changing roles of the fort and visit the Army Museum.
November to May 6: The Parade Square and accessible washrooms inside the Halifax Citadel remain open, weather permitting. The Visitor Centre and all period rooms and exhibits are closed. The upper level of the fort walls (ramparts) are closed for visitor safety. Full programming returns in May! More information
Free admission at Halifax Citadel National Historic Site
The Canada Strong Pass is back! Enjoy free admission from June 19 to September 7, 2026.
Activities from November to May 6
Explore the Parade Square and watch the 3rd Brigade of the Royal Artillery fire the Noon Gun.
The Toqi'maliaptmu'k Arrangement
A formal partnership between the Mi'kmaq of Nova Scotia and Parks Canada for co-managing protected areas.
Visiting Halifax Citadel National Historic Site
Activities and experiences
Things to do, events, family and school programs, demonstrations, guided ghost tours, museum.
Plan your visit
How to get here, maps and directions, facilities and services, hours, accessibility, event rentals, photos, fees.
Shop and reserve
Passes and permits, souvenirs, reservations. Rent space for your meeting or special event.
Fees
Free admission, program fees, and more.
Passes and permits
Discovery Pass. Film permits.
Safety and guidelines
Important bulletins, weather, seasonal safety, visitor guidelines.
About Halifax Citadel National Historic Site
Culture and history
History, architecture, Hometown Heros, engineering, Halifax Defence Complex.
Stewardship and management
Jobs, partners, permits and licenses, public consultations, plans, and policies.
Hours of operation
Open daily
January 1 to March 31, 2026
Open Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm
Open Saturday and Sunday, 9 am to 4 pm
Services change with the seasons.
The grounds are open year-round.
More places to discover with Parks Canada
Georges Island National Historic Site
A drumlin created by glacial deposits thousands of years ago, Georges Island sits in the centre of Halifax Harbour and was at the heart of military action for hundreds of years.
Prince of Wales Tower National Historic Site
Built in 1796-97 to protect against French attack, the Prince of Wales Tower was the first of its kind in North America. Visitors can explore its history, architectural features and significance as a defensive structure.
Fort McNab National Historic Site
From the 1880s and for more than half a century, Fort McNab played a key role in the Halifax Defence System, guarding one of the British Empire’s (and then Canada’s) most significant naval stations.
York Redoubt National Historic Site
An integral part of Halifax’s Defense Complex, York Redoubt helped protect this strategic port city from military attack for over 200 years. Walking paths and interpretive panels help tell its impressive story.
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