Nova Scotia and PEI in October
 

We have travel time in the first two weeks of October. How are NS and PEI at this time? If we fly into Halifax, what is the availability of rental cars? Also, what are the historic neighborhoods of Halifax? Our lodging preferences are eclectic, historic and in artistic areas. Thanks so much.

Adunate,

Regarding PEI did you see this post I listed many things to do and see on the island.

https://www.fodors.com/community/can...d-pei-1664364/


Everything is open mid June through August. Each week in September some tourist businesses outside of Charlottetown will start to close. Most business in Cavendish are closed by the 1st to 3rd week in September. By the end of October many tourist businesses outside of Charlottetown, Summerside, etc are closed. Always check websites or call to individual business you plan to visit to check operating hours.

Do not misunderstand me business do stay open for most of the year since the island has 170 k population. But the business that tourist go to ie restaurants, shops, etc. will close as summer help returns to school and foreign works go home.

If you visit Charlottetown definitely check the cruise ship schedule. If a cruise ship will be in port with 3,000- 8,000 passengers on the day you plan to visit you may want to go another day. October is prime cruise ship time.

https://portcharlottetown.com/cruise...schedule-2023/

Hope this helps if after reviewing the links you have questions please let us know.

Tom

Forgot to add Oct 09 is Thanksgiving weekend in Canada after which tourist attractions start to shut down.

Tom

Ah, Tom! Thanks so much for the reminder! Last year we did a Lake Superior Circle Tour, starting from our home state of Wisconsin. Per online advise we emptied our coolers of all food before crossing into Canada. Unbeknownst to us, it was Canadian Thanksgiving and nothing was open. NOTHING! Canadians celebrate their holidays so much better than Americans do. And yes, we should have been aware of this out of respect for the Great North.

Thanks so much for all the helpful info!

Glad I can help. We are in Pa so early October Thanksgiving not even on the radar..lol. Glad I remembered from past conversations with our Canadian friends.

Safe travels

Tom

Hello!
Rental cars have been scarce since the pandemic. I'd recommend booking now. That's a busy time. You'll be running into Thanksgiving + the height of the fall colours (leaves changing). Late September/Early October is peak cruise ship season in the Maritimes as well. There are several rental agencies at the airport.
In terms of neighborhoods, you'll want to stay on the Halifax peninsula. If you look for lodging in neighborhoods described as "north end", "west end" "south end" or central Halifax/downtown you'll be within walking distance of most things you want to see and should find something that meets your style. The Hydrostone District is beautiful.
In terms of weather, early October tends to be great in Nova Scotia. Still a few warm days with brilliant blue skies. Cool nights.
Enjoy your trip!