Awesome Places to Film in Halifax

In 2012 and 2013 I had the opportunity to live in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Fresh off my job as a land use planner I was amazed at the way this city is able to honour its history while maintaining a rich cultural diversity and supporting a modern way of living. The moist climate leads to beautiful and dramatic landscapes where rock outcrops compete with lush forests and gardens are full of colour. Having never seen the Atlantic Ocean I finally understood Lee Ann Womack’s song “I Hope You Dance” about “feeling small when you stand beside the ocean.” Halifax will always hold a special place in my heart from all of the memories I made there.

Since returning to Alberta I have come to realize the number of truly amazing places in and around Halifax that are not only a great back drop for photos but would provide interesting settings for movies, tv shows, or commercials. In addition, the people are friendly, generous, interesting and due to some international universities ethnically diverse resulting in a good pool for both leads and extras.

Here is my list of some of the Awesome Places to Film in and around Halifax, Nova Scotia.

1) Halifax Armoury

From the outside this massive stone building invites you in as you get closer. Resembling a fortress, it offers a historic and unique back drop for quiet conversations, speeches, or public events.

Potential uses: presidential speech back drop, architectural documentary, “Proposal scene” in a movie

2) The Citadel

Completed in 1856 this impressive fort features period buildings and interpreters dressed in period costumes. On the tour I went on we had the opportunity to go in between the walls, witness a firearm demonstration, and explore the many buildings. There are many impressive cannons and the view cannot be rivalled.

Potential uses: period pieces or family entertainment movies, middle age pieces (stone walls), adventure films, romances, hairspray commercials

3) The Halifax Waterfront

In the summer time the Halifax waterfront teams with life. Between the farmer’s market, the many restaurants, creative buskers, museums, and other attractions this area is fun for the whole family. The giant wave especially gives a unique place for a quiet conversation or a challenge between friends. While I lived there the street performers festival and tall ships festival attracted crowds and offered a full day of entertainment.

Potential uses: music videos, “first date” scenes, chase scenes, family entertainment, reality shows, daredevil challenges

4) Camp Hill Cemetery

Located next to the Halifax Public Gardens this beautifully maintained cemetery offers a park like setting and a convenient short cut to downtown Halifax. Monuments of prestigious citizens and shady walking paths give it a distinctness over western cemeteries and encourage use as a public space.

Potential Uses: Horror movies, historical fiction, adventure/action (e.g. chase scenes), documentaries

5) The Victorian Houses

While not in a single location - the city teams with numerous Victorian era houses and other buildings mixed in among their modern counterparts. With their small stained-glass windows, wooden porches, and distinct architecture they offer many opportunities for both indoor and outdoor shots.

Potential usess – period pieces, commercials, Christmas Movies

6) The Five Street Intersection by the Halifax Common

The intersection located at the junction of Bell Road, Cogswell Street, Robie Street, and Quinpool Road is a unique experience for both drivers and pedestrians. At first glance it appears chaotic but after repeated exposure the sequence and timing of the lights is easy to follow. While waiting for your turn you can enjoy the views of the Halifax Commons including the Armoury.

Potential uses - parade scenes, car chase scenes, above ground visuals

7) Dalhousie and St. Mary’s Universities

These beautiful campuses feel like a world unto themselves. With small stone walls, quiet streets, and fascinating buildings they could be any campus in North America. Similar to the rest of the city there are many trees offering spectacular autumn foliage.

Potential Uses – comedy, drama, university, reality shows

8) Peggy’s Cove

Located approximately 45 minutes from Halifax the majesty of this area will take your breath away. Featuring a distinct lighthouse, wave worn shore line, fantastic restaurant and gift shop it can provide interesting experiences year-round. In summer the cool ocean breezes encourage you on as you carefully climb over the rocks. In autumn, the surrounding scenery is filled with rich colours. In winter, the crashing waves create icicles on the rocks.

Potential Uses – crowd scenes, reality show challenges, dramatic reunions, proposal scenes

*Author’s Note: This list does not imply permission to film on behalf of the owners of buildings and property located in and around the places mentioned. Proper procedures would need to be followed prior to filming. *