Georges Island

Georges Island is very much a family destination, as there’s plenty to do as you take in views of Dartmouth and the Halifax waterfront boardwalk. ... See more

Georges Island is very much a family destination, as there’s plenty to do as you take in views of Dartmouth and the Halifax waterfront boardwalk. Even the ferry ride in offers picturesque scenery as you head away from the Halifax waterfront.

The main attraction on Georges Island is Fort Charlotte. Fortifications here date to 1750 and include an underground tunnel system. While Georges Island has never been attacked, Fort Charlotte and the surrounding area has been used for important military operations over the centuries. Two thousand French soldiers were imprisoned here during the Seven Years War and an estimated 1,660 Acadian civilians were detained during the Expulsion. During the American Revolution, privateers were held prisoner in Fort Charlotte and, during World War II, an anti-aircraft was stationed there.

Georges Island has rich history. It was part of the "Halifax Defense Complex" from the mid-18th century to the Second World War. Interpretive panels and guides share a fascinating history from ancient times when the Mi’kmaq arrived in Kjipuktuk, the ‘Great Harbour’, to the arrival of the British in 1749, to the imprisonment of Acadians during the Deportation of 1755-63, and to the protection of the city during the World Wars. You will be able to join a guided tour of the underground tunnels at the island courtesy of Parks Canada. Travelers will be able to see part of the Halifax boardwalk which is one of the world's longest urban boardwalks spanning the length of the waterfront - 4 kilometers (2.5 miles). See less