10 Things to Do at Pier 21 National Historic Site, Halifax Canada
As one of Canada’s most important immigration ports, Pier 21 National Historic Site in Halifax, Nova Scotia, is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Canadian history. Located on the waterfront in downtown Halifax, this national historic site offers visitors a glimpse into the past, as well as plenty of activities and attractions. Here’s a list of 10 things to do at Pier 21 National Historic Site.
1. Take a Tour of the Pier 21 Immigration Museum
The Pier 21 Immigration Museum is the main attraction of the national historic site. The museum features interactive exhibits and displays that tell the story of the more than one million immigrants who passed through Pier 21 between 1928 and 1971. Visitors can also view artifacts, photographs, and documents that illustrate the experiences of immigrants to Canada.
2. Visit the Canada Hall
The Canada Hall at Pier 21 is a large, interactive exhibition space that showcases the stories of Canadian immigration. Through interactive displays and multimedia presentations, visitors can learn about the history of immigration to Canada, as well as the experiences of immigrants.
3. Explore the Exhibitions
Pier 21 National Historic Site offers a variety of exhibitions that explore various aspects of Canadian immigration. These exhibitions include “The War Brides of Pier 21”, which tells the stories of the thousands of war brides who left their homes in England and other parts of Europe to start a new life in Canada. Other exhibitions include “The Chinese Experience at Pier 21”, which looks at the history of Chinese immigration to Canada, and “The Dutch Experience at Pier 21”, which looks at the history of Dutch immigration to Canada.
4. Take a Self-Guided Tour
For those who prefer to explore the Pier 21 National Historic Site at their own pace, there is a self-guided tour available. This tour takes visitors through the various exhibits and displays, allowing them to learn about the history of immigration to Canada.
5. Visit the Pier 21 Theatre
The Pier 21 Theatre is a multi-purpose theatre located at the national historic site. The theatre hosts a variety of events, including screenings of films, live performances, and lectures.
6. Attend a Special Event
Pier 21 National Historic Site hosts a variety of special events throughout the year. These events include lectures, performances, workshops, and other activities that explore the history of immigration to Canada.
7. Take a Harbour Cruise
One of the most popular activities at Pier 21 National Historic Site is the harbour cruise. This cruise takes visitors on a tour of the Halifax harbour, giving them the chance to see the city from a different perspective.
8. Go Shopping
The Pier 21 National Historic Site also has a variety of shops and boutiques, where visitors can buy souvenirs, books, and other items related to the history of immigration to Canada.
9. Enjoy a Meal at the Pier 21 Café
The Pier 21 Café is a great place to grab a bite to eat. The café serves a variety of dishes, including sandwiches, salads, and desserts.
10. Participate in a Workshop
Pier 21 National Historic Site also offers a variety of workshops for visitors. These workshops explore various aspects of Canadian immigration, such as the experiences of war brides, the history of Chinese immigration to Canada, and the Dutch experience at Pier 21.
Pier 21 National Historic Site is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Canadian history. From the Immigration Museum to the harbour cruise, there’s something for everyone at this national historic site. With its variety of activities and attractions, Pier 21 National Historic Site is sure to provide a memorable experience for all visitors.