2 Best Sights in Halifax, Nova Scotia

Affectionately dubbed "Canada's Front Door," Pier 21 served as the entry point for nearly a million immigrants—refugees, evacuees, war brides, and others—between 1928 and 1971, and in a country where the population is only slightly more than 36 million, it's a significant number. It's now a national museum, honoring the huge contribution that these immigrants have made to Canada. Personal and often very moving stories have been collected from immigrants, offering insight into their quest for a new life and the success (and occasional failure) of the system. The Scotiabank Family History Centre is often buzzing with new generations of Canadians discovering their genealogy, while temporary exhibitions highlight issues such as asylum seekers, peace through diversity, and the foreign cultures that continue to enrich Canadian life. The museum also offers a work experience and mentoring program to help ease newly arrived immigrants into the workplace—your guide might have his or her own personal immigration story to tell.

Until the 1960's, a century-old African Nova Scotian community resided in Africville. Forced out by the city to make way for industrial development, the residents scattered and the community broken. After an apology in 2010, some of the land was given over to the building of this museum and a memorial park. Open since 2012, this museum tells the stories of Africville and its people and is housed in a replica of the original church that served the community. The park offers beautiful views out over the Halifax Harbor.