In Halifax, you’ll find many brightly colored houses, particularly in the historic south end of the city. But did you know these vibrant homes have a lengthy history? Ship captains often painted their homes bright colors to identify them from sea as they came to port. The bold colors also made it easier to spot during foggy conditions. © Adeliepenguin | Dreamstime.com

Peggy’s Point Lighthouse, also known as Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse, is an active lighthouse with origins dating back to 1868. One of the most popular attractions in the area, this landmark is open year-round to visitors. © Gerald Zaffuts | Dreamstime.com

Within Halifax are The Historic Properties, also called Privateers’ Wharf, a series of warehouses on Halifax Boardwalk. These buildings boosted the city’s wealth through trade and commerce in the early 19th century. These well-preserved buildings include Pontac House, Privateer Warehouse, The Red Store and King’s Warehouse (now The Carpenter Shop). © Adeliepenguin | Dreamstime.com

Nova Scotia is home to several historic ships, each delving into different time periods of the region’s maritime history. Take a two-hour harbor cruise aboard Bluenose II, a full-scale replica of the famed racing schooner of the same name; visit HMCS Sackville, Canada’s oldest warship with exhibits and tours exploring its role in World War II; and head to CSS Acadia, a former survey vessel that is the only surviving ship from the Halifax Explosion, and is now a floating museum. © Onepony | Dreamstime.com

Located on the South Shore of Nova Scotia, Lunenburg was one of the first British attempts to settle Protestants in Nova Scotia. Now a UNESCO World Heritage site, the town still features buildings dating back to the 18th century, as well as Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic. © King Ho Yim | Dreamstime.com

Founded by the British in 1749, Citadel Hill is a National Historic Site in Halifax. This site features a fortified summit and Army Museum. The museum mostly focuses on Nova Scotia’s involvement in World War I and II. There is also an exhibit on the fortress from the pre-colonial period onward. © Roger Zhang | Dreamstime.com

Teeming with river canyons, valleys, forests, hills and craggy coastlines, Cape Breton Highlands National Park draws visitors every year to soak in the natural and rugged beauty of Nova Scotia. In addition to having the highest point in Nova Scotia, White Hill, the park is also home to waterfalls, hiking trails, and an array of wildlife like moose and deer. Views of the sea might even include the chance to spot whales surfacing. © Photawa | Dreamstime.com