Dartmouth

Sister city to Halifax, Dartmouth is just a short ferry ride across Halifax Harbour from its bigger sibling. Often referred to as the Brooklyn of Halifax, the city’s compact and walkable downtown has emerged as a funky alternative to Halifax’s more established scene. Dartmouth is an eclectic mix of top-notch restaurants, interesting shops, quaint cafes, and a diverse array of neighbourhoods.

The waterfront is a focal point of Dartmouth, boasting the vibrant Alderney Landing, a cultural hub hosting events, markets, and theatres. With a scenic backdrop of the Halifax Harbour, the waterfront provides an ideal setting for leisurely strolls, picnics, and outdoor activities. Large parks further enhance Dartmouth's appeal, offering green spaces for recreation and relaxation.

Known as the City of Lakes, Dartmouth boasts 23 lakes that provide opportunities for kayaking, windsurfing, canoeing, and swimming. Residents enjoy paddling on Lake Banook and visiting one of the many parks and walking trails that stretch out into the unspoiled coastal beauty of the Eastern Shore.

Dartmouth was a relatively self-contained city until the 20th century, when the city’s growth expanded with the building of two key bridges over Halifax Harbour. Dartmouth now enjoys a close relationship with Halifax, and residents benefit from the convenience of accessibility while savouring a more relaxed pace of life.

With excellent schools, a welcoming atmosphere, and a range of housing options, Dartmouth attracts a mix of families, professionals, and individuals seeking a close-knit community. Whether exploring historical sites, enjoying the natural beauty, or participating in community events, Dartmouth offers a layered experience for those seeking a place to call home.

Education in Dartmouth

• Multiple public elementary, middle, and high schools, including French language schools and institutions with French immersion
• Private elementary, middle, and high schools
• Nova Scotia Community College Akerley Campus
• Nova Scotia Community College Ivany Campus
• Cape Breton Business College Dartmouth Campus

Amenities in Dartmouth

• Waterfront, offering relaxing walks and beautiful views of the city skyline
• Alderney Landing, a waterfront cultural and community centre
• Shubie Park, a large park with walking trails, a canal, and a lake
• Sullivan's Pond, a park with a large pond surrounded by walking paths 
• Zatzman Sportsplex, recreation facility with swimming, fitness classes, and sports
• Dartmouth Crossing, a major shopping and entertainment district
• Brightwood Golf & Country Club, a 19th Century golf course 

Health care facilities in and near Dartmouth

Dartmouth General Hospital

This hospital provides services to approximately 120,000 people in Dartmouth and surrounding areas.

Dartmouth Drive-Thru Blood Collection

This winterized drive-thru location offers patients the option to be registered and have their blood collected while they sit in their vehicle.

Woodlawn Blood Collection

This location houses an NSH blood collection location.

East Dartmouth Community Centre

This centre houses health and wellness programs.

Eastern Shore Memorial Hospital

Located in Sheet Harbour, Nova Scotia, this hospital opened in 1976 and has inpatient beds. The hospital is also attached to the Harbourview Lodge Continuing Care Centre. There is no emergency department at Eastern Shore Memorial Hospital. 

North Preston Community Centre

Home to a Community Health and Wellness Centre, it provides health care services and wellness programming for the communities of North Preston, East Preston, Cherry Brook and Lake Loon.

East Preston W5 Mall 

Home to a community health and wellness centre that offers health care services and wellness programming for the communities of North Preston, East Preston, Cherry Brook and Lake Loon.

Public Health Services 

Located in Dartmouth’s Burnside Industrial Park. 

Tacoma Plaza 

Home to the Dartmouth Community Health Team. Health and wellness programs are offered at this location.