The South End of Halifax could be defined as one of Canada’s oldest residential communities, with some buildings dating back to about the time the city was founded in 1749. It’s also where you’ll find Canada’s oldest university, University of King’s College, established in 1788 and now associated with another South End learning institution, Dalhousie University. Walk through the university’s campus, which covers a considerable portion of the South End.

Dalhousie Arts Centre offers a wide range of theatrical and musical performances of national and international caliber. Stop at the box office or check online to find out what’s playing.

Walk past the Nova Scotia Archives with its exhibits and displays covering practically all historical aspects of Nova Scotia and its people. Learn about such topics as the Canadian iconic schooner Bluenose that was built in the province, the RMS Titanicthat sank after hitting an iceberg in the North Atlantic on its maiden voyage, the powerful Halifax Explosion of 1917 and much more.

The Halifax Seaport Farmers Market is located near the harbor, with excellent views of ship traffic. Stop here any day to see and purchase food products and merchandise from local vendors at an institution that’s almost as old as the city itself.

A statue of Sir Samuel Cunard is near the market to commemorate this Halifax citizen for founding the Cunard Steamship Company. Look for one of the Cunard Queens berthed at a nearby pier.

Many fine residences in the South End are close to accessible Point Pleasant Park, where residents and visitors leisurely stroll, jog or walk dogs through the 185-acre (75-hectare) wooded area that’s mostly surrounded by ocean.

The park’s Black Rock Beach was a hanging site for convicted felons in the 1700s, but thankfully is now a popular sandy public saltwater beach. Leave your car at an entrance to the park, which is open daily from early morning to late night.