Halifax Travel Guide

Discover Halifax, Massachusetts with our comprehensive travel guide featuring top attractions, hiking/biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, local culture and customs, and more.


Introduction to Halifax

Halifax is a historic seaside town located in South Shore, Massachusetts. With its charming downtown, scenic harbor, and rich history, it’s a popular destination for tourists visiting the Eastern Massachusetts region. Halifax is also conveniently located near other popular destinations like Cape Cod and Boston, making it an ideal base for exploring the area.

List of Places to Visit in Halifax

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Halifax Historical Society Museum: Learn about the town’s rich history through exhibits and artifacts.
  • The Holmes Public Library: A historic library with beautiful architecture and a great collection of books.
  • The Captain Samuel Drinkwater House: A well-preserved 18th-century home with period furnishings.

Natural Attractions of Halifax: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Monponsett Pond: A great spot for fishing, boating, and picnicking.
  • Burrage Pond Wildlife Management Area: Hiking trails with scenic views of forests, hills, and ponds.
  • Silver Lake: A popular recreational spot for swimming, boating, and kayaking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Halifax

  • The Shinglemill Trail: A 2.4-mile trail with beautiful views of the countryside.
  • The Ocean Hill-Beyond Trail: A 4.7-mile scenic trail with natural features like a freshwater pond.
  • The Burrage Pond Trail: A 6-mile hiking trail with various types of terrain and nice views of the pond.

Best Things to Do in Halifax: Activities and Tours

  • Halifax Kayak Tours: Take a guided tour around local waterways and see wildlife up close.
  • Halifax Bike Tours: Rent a bike and explore the town and surrounding countryside on your own.
  • Whitewater Rafting: Experience some adventure on the nearby rapids with a guided rafting tour.

Week-Long Itinerary for Halifax

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore downtown Halifax and visit the Halifax Historical Society Museum.
Day 2 Spend the day hiking the Shinglemill Trail and enjoying the natural scenery.
Day 3 Visit Silver Lake for a day of swimming, boating, and relaxing.
Day 4 Take a kayak tour and explore the local waterways.
Day 5 Visit the Captain Samuel Drinkwater House and learn about colonial life in Massachusetts.
Day 6 Spend the day on the Burrage Pond Trail and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
Day 7 Experience some adventure with a whitewater rafting tour on the nearby rapids.

Food and Drink Scene of Halifax

Must-Try Dishes

  • Halifax Clams: Fresh, locally harvested clams served fried, baked, or steamed.
  • Seafood Chowder: A creamy New England-style chowder made with fresh seafood.
  • Lobster Roll: A classic New England sandwich made with lobster meat, mayo, and celery served on a hotdog bun.

Local Beverages

  • Cranberry Juice: A local specialty made from fresh cranberries grown in the region.
  • Cape Cod Beer: A microbrewery based in Hyannis that produces a variety of delicious beers.

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

  • Halifax Harbor Hotel: A waterfront hotel with stunning views of the harbor.
  • Hampton Inn and Suites: A comfortable and affordable hotel located near downtown Halifax.
  • The Inn on the Cove: A beautiful guesthouse surrounded by natural beauty and scenic views.

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

  • Cranberries: Fresh, locally grown cranberries and cranberry products like juice, jam, and sauce.
  • Handmade Crafts: Unique, handmade items created by local artisans and craftspeople.

Local Culture and Customs of Halifax

Halifax is a friendly and welcoming town with a strong sense of community. Visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions, including the importance of seafood and the town’s rich colonial history.

Best Time to Visit Halifax

The best time to visit Halifax is during the summer months (June-August) when the weather is warm and sunny. Fall (September-November) is also a great time to visit for beautiful foliage and lower crowds.

Do’s and Don’ts of Halifax

Do:

  • Enjoy the local seafood.
  • Visit the town’s historic sites and museums.
  • Take advantage of the outdoor recreational opportunities.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage natural areas.
  • Be disrespectful of local customs and traditions.
  • Underestimate the power of the rapids on the nearby rivers.

Safety and Health

Safety in Halifax

Halifax is a relatively safe town with low crime rates. Visitors should still take standard precautions, such as locking doors and windows at night and not leaving valuables unattended.

Health in Halifax

Halifax has a good healthcare system and a few medical clinics and pharmacies in the area.

Getting to Halifax: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Halifax

  • Boston Logan International Airport: The nearest major airport, located 45 minutes away.
  • Providence T.F. Green Airport: A smaller regional airport located 1 hour away.

Bus Stations Near Halifax

  • Plymouth Bus Station: Located 15 minutes away.
  • Brockton Bus Station: Located 30 minutes away.

Other Options

  • Renting a Car: A great way to explore the area and access nearby destinations.
  • Taking a Taxi or Uber: A convenient option for getting around town or to and from the airport.

How to Get Around in Halifax

The best way to get around Halifax is by car or bike, although there is a local bus system that stops at various points in town.

Where to Go Next from Halifax: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Cape Cod: A popular vacation destination famous for its beaches, seafood, and quaint towns.
  • Boston: A historic city full of museums, parks, and cultural attractions.
  • Providence: A vibrant city with plenty of cultural attractions and delicious restaurants.

Conclusion

Halifax is a charming and historic town that’s perfect for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty and rich history of Massachusetts. With plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities, delicious local seafood, and a strong sense of community, Halifax is an ideal destination for travelers of all ages and interests.

Halifax Congregational Church and Town Hall, Rt. 106 Halifax Congregational Church and Town Hall, Rt. 106