The Best Bars in Halifax, Nova Scotia

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Hit up the Lower Deck for a true taste of Nova Scotia. Whether you’re having a beer on the patio, listening to live music inside, or dancing up a storm upstairs, you’re guaranteed to have a good time.

With a constantly rotating tap menu and a chic industrial décor, Stillwell is one of the coolest spots in town and was voted the best bar in the city in 2016. During the summer months, don’t miss their uber-cool and always busy beer garden on Spring Garden Rd.

One of the city’s most popular live music venues, The Carleton is an excellent place to check out local talent and enjoy a night out. Shows often sell out, so look into getting tickets in advance.

The always busy Durty Nelly’s is the place to be on Friday and Saturday nights. You may have to brave the lines to get into this Irish bar, but it’s well worth it. It’s an ideal spot to grab a pint, meet new friends, and listen to live music.

If hitting the dance floor is more your style, you’ll love a night out at the Halifax Alehouse. Open until 3:30 am, this downtown hot spot strikes the perfect balance between a laid-back pub and a late-night bar. Live music and bartenders dressed in old-fashioned barkeep costumes round out the atmosphere.

This Spanish-inspired bar serves up high-quality drinks and tapas and boasts some of the best bartenders in the city. Get to Highway Man early because this small spot fills up fast.

Start your night out on a classy note with a trip to Obladee. Their extensive wine list and knowledgeable staff make this a fantastic spot for both wine novices and connoisseurs.

With a focus on local products, Field Guide makes some of the best and most creative cocktails in the city. Their food menu is pretty stellar too, making this a perfect place to enjoy a casual night out.

The gorgeous Lot Six Bar & Restaurant will have you feeling like you’re in Europe rather than Halifax. The glass-ceilinged atrium is an excellent place to enjoy some of their amazing cocktails and killer menu items. Just be sure to make a reservation as the weekends fill up well in advance.

Known as Nova Scotia’s Original Tavern, the original Split Crow opened in 1749 and was the first liquor license granted in the province. Over 250 years later, it continues to be one of the most popular spots in the city and retains a uniquely Nova Scotian vibe. You’re guaranteed to have a good time at this Halifax institution.