Truro Travel Guide

Plan your vacation to Truro, Nova Scotia with this travel guide. Learn about the best attractions, hiking/biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, and local culture and customs.


A Comprehensive Travel Guide to Truro, Nova Scotia

Truro is a charming and picturesque town located in Minas Basin, Nova Scotia, Canada. With a rich history, breathtaking natural beauty, and a thriving food and drink scene, this small town is the perfect destination for travelers looking to experience authentic Canadian culture. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Truro.

List of Places to Visit in Truro

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Colchester Historeum: This museum showcases the history of Colchester County and features exhibits on everything from the Mi’kmaq culture to the area’s industrial past.
  • Truro Farmers’ Market: This bustling market is a staple of the community and features vendors selling handmade crafts and locally grown produce.
  • Cobequid Interpretation Centre: This is a historical center featuring exhibits on the area’s geology, Acadian history, and forestry industry.
  • Victoria Park: This park is a must-visit for any traveler to Truro, with scenic views, hiking trails, and picnic areas.

Natural Attractions of Truro: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Tidal Bore: This natural phenomenon occurs twice a day and involves the incoming tide creating a wave that travels up the Salmon River. It’s an unforgettable sight to see.
  • Riverrunners: For adventure-seekers, the Riverrunners kayaking and tubing excursion is a must-do. Paddle down the Shubenacadie River while experiencing the stunning scenery.
  • Cobequid Bay Lookoff: Located on the highway near Truro, this lookout offers panoramic views of the Cobequid Bay and its surrounding natural landscapes.
  • Hub Cycle Bike Rentals: Cyclists will enjoy the scenic routes around Truro with a rental from Hub Cycle Bike shop.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Truro

  • Victoria Park Trail System: Home to many hiking trails of varying difficulty, this park is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts. Don’t miss the stunning waterfall located within the park.
  • Fundy Discovery Site Trail System: This trail system consists of two main loops, featuring interpretive signs and stunning views of the Cobequid Bay and the tidal bore.
  • Cathedral Bluffs Trail: This 7.3 km trail is ideal for a full-day hike. Visitors will travel through boreal forests and along the Salmon River while experiencing stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Best Things to Do in Truro: Activities and Tours

  • Truro Golf Club: Golfers can enjoy the perfect combination of beautiful scenery and challenging courses at the Truro Golf Club.
  • Marigold Cultural Centre: This center is a hub for performing arts and cultural events, with a year-round schedule of plays, concerts, and other events.
  • Tidal Bore Rafting Resort: For an adrenaline-fueled adventure, sign up for the tidal bore rafting excursion down the Shubenacadie River.
  • Annapolis Valley Wine Tours: Take a guided wine tour of the beautiful Annapolis Valley, just a short drive from Truro.

Week-Long Itinerary for Truro

Day Activities
Day 1 Explore downtown Truro and visit the Truro Farmers’ Market.
Day 2-3 Hiking and outdoor activities in Victoria Park and beyond.
Day 4 Kayaking or tubing excursion with Riverrunners.
Day 5 Visit Colchester Historeum and Cobequid Interpretation Centre.
Day 6 Play a round of golf at Truro Golf Club or attend a show at the Marigold Cultural Centre.
Day 7 Wine tour of Annapolis Valley Wineries.

Food and Drink Scene of Truro

Must-Try Dishes

  • Lobster Rolls: As Truro is located in Nova Scotia, it serves some of the freshest lobster rolls in Atlantic Canada.
  • Donairs: A Nova Scotian staple, this gyro-like dish is made with spiced beef and served with a sweet sauce on top.
  • Oulton’s Famous Clam Chowder: A beloved local eatery, Oulton’s is known for their delicious clam chowder which has been in the family for over 50 years.
  • Apple Cider: Truro is also known for its delicious apple cider which can be bought at the Masstown Market.

Local Beverages

  • Stutz Cider: This hard cider is made from local Nova Scotia apples and is a must-try when in Truro.
  • Barrelling Tide Distillery: Head to this distillery to sample some of their award-winning spirits, including vodka and gin.
  • Tatamagouche Brewing: Located just a short drive from Truro, this craft brewery serves delicious beer and has a taproom where visitors can enjoy small bites and live music.

Where to Stay in Truro: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Hampton Inn & Suites: This is a charming hotel located on Willow Street, just a stone’s throw from downtown Truro.
  • The Tidal Bore Inn: The Tidal Bore Inn is located on the Bay of Fundy and is the perfect location for viewing the Tidal Bore and its surrounding scenic beauty.
  • Stonehouse Motel & Restaurant: A budget-friendly option, the Stonehouse offers clean and comfortable rooms and a restaurant on-site.

What to Buy in Truro: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Celtic Knotworks: Visitors can purchase handmade jewelry, clothing, and other souvenirs from this quaint shop in downtown Truro.
  • Dalhousie Creamery Ice Cream: This ice cream shop near Truro offers delicious homemade ice cream made from local ingredients.
  • Masstown Market: Don’t miss this iconic market where visitors can purchase local produce, artwork, clothing, and other souvenirs.

Local Culture and Customs of Truro

Truro is a friendly and welcoming town with a rich history that is celebrated throughout the community. Visitors are encouraged to take part in local festivals and events that take place throughout the year, such as the Truro Farmers’ Market and the Nova Scotia Provincial Exhibition.

Best Time to Visit Truro

The best time to visit Truro is during the summer months, from June to August. During this time, visitors can enjoy outdoor activities and events while taking in the stunning natural beauty of the surrounding area.

Do’s and Don’ts of Truro

Do:

  • Do take part in local events and festivals.
  • Do hike or bike the scenic routes around Truro.
  • Do try local seafood and delicacies

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage natural landmarks.
  • Don’t forget to tip your server in restaurants.

Safety and Health

Safety in Truro

Truro is a safe and welcoming town, and visitors are encouraged to practice common safety measures such as locking their vehicles and keeping their valuables out of sight.

Health in Truro

In case of a medical emergency, visitors can go to the Colchester East Hants Health Centre, located at 600 Abenaki Road in Truro.

Getting to Truro: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Truro

The nearest airports to Truro are Halifax Stanfield International Airport, located about an hour’s drive away, and the Greater Moncton Roméo LeBlanc International Airport, located about two hours away.

Bus Stations Near Truro

Truro has several bus stations, including the Maritime Bus terminal located on Willow Street.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car or take a taxi from nearby cities or towns to get to Truro.

How to Get Around in Truro

Visitors can get around Truro by car, bike, or on foot. Rentals for both cars and bikes are available in the area.

Where to Go Next from Truro: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Joggins Fossil Cliffs: Located about an hour’s drive from Truro, Joggins Fossil Cliffs offer a glimpse into the area’s ancient past with preserved fossils from over 300 million years ago.
  • Bay of Fundy: This natural wonder is located just a short drive from Truro and is a must-visit for any traveler to the region.
  • Halifax: The bustling city of Halifax is located just over an hour’s drive from Truro and is known for its rich maritime history, lively arts scene, and delicious seafood.

Conclusion

Truro is a charming and welcoming town that offers something for every traveler. With breathtaking scenery, delicious food, and a friendly community, it is the perfect destination for anyone looking to experience authentic Canadian culture. Plan your trip to Truro today and discover the beauty of Atlantic Canada.

St. John the Evangelist Anglican Church St. John the Evangelist Anglican Church Jacob's Ladder, Victoria Park Jacob's Ladder, Victoria Park