How To Spend A Perfect Spring Weekend In Dartmouth, Nova Scotia

01.03.2024 - 21:35 / forbes.com / Nova Scotia

Dartmouth often gets overlooked for its bigger, shinier contemporary across the harbour. But the city—and especially the downtown core—is coming into its own with enough award-winning restaurants and bars to rival Halifax. As you plan your next trip to Nova Scotia, be sure to pencil in a few days to explore what Dartmouth has to offer. Here are some of the best addresses for making the most of a few days in the city come springtime:

The big-name hotel brands and resorts tend to be on the other side of the Halifax Harbour—but Dartmouth has its fair share of mid-level accommodations that make a trip to Nova Scotia a bit more affordable. It’s also worth noting that the views from the Dartmouth side of the water tend to be better than if you’re booking on the Halifax side because, well, Halifax is a bigger city with skyscrapers and Citadel Hill filling out its skyline.

Consider checking into the DoubleTree by Hilton Dartmouth if great views are what you’re after. The cozy hotel is conveniently located on Wyse Road at the MacDonald Bridge's base, making it easy to commute between Dartmouth and Halifax.

There’s also the Delta Hotels by Marriott Dartmouth which is at the base of Cyril Smith Golden Acres Park and can be a great option for those traveling with pets or kids who want a decent amount of greenery to explore.

Halifax gets a lot of glory when it comes to the best dining and drinking in Atlantic Canada but little sister Dartmouth has more to explore than meets the eye—especially if you’re looking to move away from chains and franchises which tend to be more abundant on the Halifax side.

The Canteen on Portland has become somewhat of a local legend for its creative takes on Nova Scotian classics like the fan-favorite pan-seared Digby scallops and green pea risotto. Down the road on Ochterloney Street, there’s also Doraku, one of the very first sushi restaurants in the province and still considered to be one of the best. Looking for something a little more upscale? Head to Oxalis Restaurant—a contemporary farm-to-table dining experience that combines Nova Scotian ingredients with German and Austrian recipes.

Downtown Dartmouth is just as thirsty as Halifax and you’ll find plenty of wine bars and pubs to imbibe into the evening or grab a quick nightcap before retreating back to your hotel. Dear Friend Bar stands out for its local wine list and incredible non-alcoholic drink menu. Side Hustle Snack Bar is another decent spot for great cocktails and local wine (as well as great elevated bar snacks). Looking for something more classic Nova Scotian? Celtic Corner Public House on Alderney Drive serves cold pints and live maritime music.

If spending the afternoon getting pampered is your kind of getaway,