12 Things to Do in Nova Scotia in the Fall
1. Annapolis Valley Wine Tour
Taking a winery tour in the Annapolis Valley during the fall is a must-do experience for wine lovers. The region’s vineyards, set against the backdrop of vibrant fall foliage, offer stunning views and the perfect ambiance to savor Nova Scotia’s finest wines. A visit to Bear River Vineyards, located in what is possibly the oldest wine-growing location in Canada, lets you sample award-winning wine while overlooking rolling hills and orchards. Another great stop is Benjamin Bridge, known for its organic, biodynamic practices and elegant tasting room. Enjoy a glass of their signature Tidal Bay wine, a true reflection of the region’s unique terroir. With crisp autumn air, harvest season in full swing, and the beautiful scenery, fall is the ideal time to explore the Annapolis Valley’s wineries.
2. Cabot Trail
Driving the Cabot Trail in the fall is a breathtaking experience, with vibrant autumn colours transforming the landscape into a spectacular mix of reds, oranges, and yellows. Winding through Cape Breton Highlands, the 298-kilometer loop offers stunning ocean vistas, dramatic cliffs, and serene valleys.
Start your journey with a stop at The Dancing Goat Cafe & Bakery in Margaree for a delicious breakfast or a coffee to fuel your adventure. As you continue, enjoy the iconic views from the Skyline Trail, where you can witness nature’s beauty at its finest.
Whether you’re driving through the highlands or along the coast, fall is the perfect time to experience the Cabot Trail’s natural beauty and rich culture.
3. Apple Orchards & Ciders in the Annapolis Valley
Exploring the Annapolis Valley’s apple orchards and cideries offers a unique and immersive Nova Scotian experience. The region’s rich apple-growing history dates back to the early 1600s, making it the oldest apple-growing region in Canada. With this heritage, the Annapolis Valley has become home to numerous orchards and cideries producing a wide variety of apple-based products, from fresh fruit to crafted ciders.
A highlight of any visit to the Annapolis Valley is following the Nova Scotia Cider Route, which connects local orchards, cider makers, and farm markets, where you can savor ciders made from heritage apple varieties grown right in the valley. Visitors should stop by East Coast Cider Company in Annapolis Royal for a taste of authentic Nova Scotian cider, crafted with locally grown apples that showcase the region’s rich agricultural heritage. With a variety of refreshing ciders and a scenic location by the coast, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a crisp drink while experiencing the beauty of the Annapolis Valley’s cider culture. You can also visit Annapolis Cider Company in Wolfville to enjoy premium ciders that reflect the unique terroir of the valley.
4. Celtic Colours International Festival
The Celtic Colours International Festival, held each October on Cape Breton Island, is a vibrant celebration of Celtic culture. The festival offers concerts, dances, and workshops, with events spread across the island’s scenic towns. Alongside the music, visitors can explore Cape Breton’s heritage with stops like the Fortress of Louisbourg, where you can experience living history, and the Cabot Trail, known for its stunning views of autumn foliage and charming villages hosting festival activities. Combining cultural immersion with breathtaking landscapes, this festival is a must for anyone interested in Celtic traditions.
5. Historic Lunenburg
Visiting Lunenburg, Nova Scotia in the fall offers a stunning display of autumn colors and a serene atmosphere perfect for exploring its historic charm. Wander through the UNESCO World Heritage Old Town, where vibrant buildings and cobblestone streets create picturesque scenes ideal for leisurely strolls and photography. Additionally, the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic provides fascinating insights into the region’s rich maritime heritage, making it a must-see destination. With its beautiful fall foliage and rich cultural experiences, Lunenburg is an enchanting destination for autumn travelers.
6. Kejimkujik National Park
Visiting Kejimkujik National Park in the fall offers a breathtaking blend of vibrant autumn colors and serene wilderness. The park is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hiking, paddling, and wildlife watching as the landscape transforms with the season. While there, explore Mersey River, where you can canoe through tranquil waters surrounded by brilliant foliage, and visit Peter Point Beach, a peaceful spot to take in the stunning views and enjoy a quiet picnic amidst nature. Fall is the ideal time to experience the park’s natural beauty in all its glory.
7. Cape Split
Hiking to Cape Split in the fall is a breathtaking experience, with vibrant autumn colours lining the trails and stunning views of the Bay of Fundy from the cliffside. The 13-kilometer round trip rewards hikers with panoramic vistas of dramatic sea cliffs and tides, making it perfect for photography and outdoor exploration. Along the way, stop at Blomidon Provincial Park for more coastal views or visit the charming Wolfville nearby, known for its local cideries and vibrant culture. Cape Split in the fall combines natural beauty with opportunities to explore Nova Scotia’s coastal wonders.
8. Devour! The Food Film Fest
Attending Devour! The Food Film Fest in Wolfville in the fall is a must for food and film lovers alike. This unique festival combines the best of culinary arts and cinema, featuring food-focused films, celebrity chefs, and gourmet events. Set against the vibrant autumn backdrop of Nova Scotia’s Annapolis Valley, attendees can enjoy film screenings, cooking workshops, and tastings of local food and wine. It’s a perfect blend of culture and flavor, offering a one-of-a-kind experience that celebrates the region’s rich culinary traditions.
9. Halifax Ghost Tour
Taking a Ghost Tour in Halifax during the fall offers a thrilling way to explore the city’s rich history and eerie past. As the crisp autumn air sets the mood, visitors can wander through historic sites like Citadel Hill and the Old Burying Ground while hearing spine-chilling tales of ghostly encounters and mysterious events. The city’s long, storied past, filled with pirates, battles, and shipwrecks, makes it the perfect backdrop for a hauntingly memorable experience, especially as the days grow shorter and the nights more mysterious.
10. Whale Watching
Whale watching on the Bay of Fundy in the fall is a spectacular experience, offering the chance to see humpbacks, fin whales, and even the rare North Atlantic right whale up close. The nutrient-rich waters of the Bay attract these giants during their migration, and fall is the perfect time to spot them. Businesses like Brier Island Whale and Seabird Cruises and Petit Passage Whale Watch offer guided tours, allowing you to witness these majestic creatures against the backdrop of vibrant autumn foliage. It’s an unforgettable way to connect with nature and explore one of the world’s top whale-watching destinations.
11. South Shore Coastal Villages
Exploring the South Shore of Nova Scotia’s coastal villages in the fall offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and local charm. With the vibrant autumn colors along the rugged coastline, it’s an ideal time to visit historic towns like Lunenburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can enjoy fresh seafood at the Salt Shaker Deli while overlooking the harbor. Nearby, the quaint village of Mahone Bay offers unique shopping experiences at Amos Pewter, where you can browse handcrafted pewter jewelry and gifts. The fall season enhances the quiet charm and scenic beauty of these coastal gems.
12. Fort Anne in Annapolis Royal
Visiting Fort Anne National Historic Site in Annapolis Royal during the fall offers a blend of rich history and breathtaking autumn scenery. As Canada’s oldest National Historic Site, Fort Anne’s 17th-century fortifications are beautifully accented by the fall foliage. After exploring, you can stop by Sissiboo Coffee Roaster for a warm, locally roasted coffee, or enjoy a stay at The Bailey House Inn, a charming 200 year-old inn situated on the harbour of Annapolis Royal. The combination of history, stunning fall colours, and local businesses make this a perfect fall destination.
Bailey House Inn
150 Saint George Street,
Annapolis Royal, NS
2025 Bailey House Inn
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• 150 Saint George Street, Annapolis Royal, Nova Scotia
Bailey House Inn 2025