The Museum of Natural History prides itself on a strong Nova Scotian focus. Don’t let its small size deceive you, as this museum packs archaeology, geology, ethnology, aquatic life and lots of real-life critters into its exhibits. Discover wonders from the province and the local area with informative permanent and temporary exhibits, and visit Gus, the almost century-old Gopher Tortoise. The museum is tucked between the Wanderer Grounds gardens and Halifax Common at the base of Citadel Hill.
This busy museum is a must-see for families. Learn about Nova Scotia’s First Nations people, the Mi’kmaq, with traditional cultural artifacts. Get up close to the Nature Lab’s live specimens, including bee colonies, reptiles and frogs. From spring to fall, visit the spectacular Butterfly House, home to hundreds of domestic and imported species.
Kids will love the sights and sounds of the interactive forest and jungle exhibits. The Science on a Sphere exhibit will impress children and adults with slick animated presentations about the solar system, weather patterns, the earth and the oceans, all on a round, 18-foot (six-metre) screen.
The crowd favourite is Gus, the resident tortoise. The ancient reptile is one of Halifax’s local celebrities and is taken out for lunch and a stroll through the museum every afternoon.
Entrance to the Museum of Natural History is reasonably priced. Ask about deals for families. Visit any day of the year during regular business hours. The museum’s wide range of guided tours, events and talks offer an in-depth experience of Nova Scotia’s rich biodiversity and heritage.
Pleasant commons, the Public Gardens Park and sports fields surround this leafy pocket of downtown Halifax. The museum is located in a quiet, green neighbourhood a short walk from the Summer and Robie Street bus routes or five minutes drive from the city centre by car. Plenty of inexpensive parking can be found right on the museum’s doorstep.
