Central Zone

From the modern yet historic city of Halifax, to the rugged and wild Eastern Shore, this region of Nova Scotia is a compelling study of contrasts. The largest city east of Montreal, Halifax is the cosmopolitan centre, bursting with restaurants, shopping, entertainment, and nightlife. But just a short trip out of the city, the allure of nature envelopes you. Imagine dinner and the theatre at night, surfing and hiking the next morning. 

As the academic and professional centre of the province, Halifax is home to the largest adult academic health sciences centre in Atlantic Canada. The QEII Health Science Centre is a collection of 10 buildings on several sites. This is the region’s specialized care centre for heart health, cancer care, neurosurgery, and organ transplantation. Also in the Central Zone is the Dartmouth General Hospital, the East Coast Forensic Hospital, three community hospitals and two Collaborative Emergency Centres. 

Founded in 1749, Halifax is an historic port city with a sophisticated allure. Its high student population keeps the culture young and vibrant, and its thriving tech, creative, and health sectors position the city as dynamic and competitive. Incredible dining, live theatre and symphony, bustling cafés, and charming pubs make life here a constant urban adventure.

Halifax’s once-industrial waterfront has, over the decades, been transformed into a 4-km long public square. A wonderful place for residents and visitors to gather for food, drink, entertainment, or just people watching, it’s said to be one of the longest urban boardwalks in the world. Follow the water’s edge, and experience everything that makes this port city so fascinating and beautiful.

Just outside of the city of Halifax, you’ll discover charming and tight-knit communities with bustling main streets, engaged residents, and a lifestyle that’s deeply connected to nature. The Eastern Shore, for example, is a seaside playground with pristine wilderness, authentic fishing communities, sandy beaches stretching as far as you care to stroll, and even conditions that are just right for incredible surfing. You’ll also discover Ski Martock—the second-biggest hill in the province—stunning provincial parks, and countless opportunities to hike, bike, kayak, or just enjoy a laidback family lifestyle in a friendly community. 

With Halifax at its core, the central zone is ideal for someone looking for an exciting and cosmopolitan urban lifestyle. But with beautiful towns and villages both inland and on the coast, it’s also the perfect home for outdoor enthusiasts craving a slower pace, a tight-knit community, and a warm, welcoming spirit.