Truro, Nova Scotia, is a great location, and if you haven’t been there, now may be a great time to go. Also known as the Hub of Nova Scotia, this small town is popular among tourists who want to explore the province, watch the tidal waves, and shop for unique items.
Truro has a lot of popular attractions and unique landmarks like Victoria Park, Sugar Moon Farm, and The Salmon River. Also, you will find a lot of fun outdoor activities you can enjoy while in town. You can enjoy excellent local cuisine in one of the many restaurants, watch comedy and theatre at the cultural center, or head outside to crash through the waves.
If you have plans to visit Nova Scotia, we recommend you take a stop at Truro. Here are some of the best things to do in Truro.
1. Victoria Park
Victoria Park is one of the best urban parks in Nova Scotia to get fresh air, take in stunning views, and enjoy outdoor activities like mountain biking (in summer) and snowshoeing (in winter). The cascading waterfalls, the winding river, the dramatic steep-sided gorge, the outdoor pool, and the hiking trails make it a popular spot for travelers. While here, you can attempt the Jacob’s Ladder Challenge, which involves climbing 175 stairs to the top.
2. The Railyard Mountain Bike Park
Located close to Victoria Park, The Railyard Mountain Bike Park has over 40km of trails perfect for mountain biking. The Railyard is perfect for people of all skills as it features beginners’ pump tracks, advanced jump lines, double trail tracks, and wallrides.
3. Cycle the Cobequid Trail
This 18-kilometer trail is located in Central Colchester County and is perfect for cycling, hiking, and walking. You will come across beautiful Acadian dykelands and farmlands, wildlife, and the tidal Salmon River while cycling through the trail.
4. Watch the tidal bores on the Salmon River
The Salmon River is one of the major landmarks in Nova Scotia, and a tidal bore occurs here twice daily at predicted times. Check the tide times before heading to Salmon River to watch the tidal bores rushing in from the Bay of Fundy tide.
5. Bay of Fundy River Rafting
One of the most popular things to do around Truro is rafting through the crashing waves along the Salmon river. The Bay of Fundy is the only place in the world where you can enjoy tidal bore rafting so add this one-of-a-kind experience to your Truro itinerary!
6. Ski Wentworth
One of the most exciting things to do in Truro during winter is taking a visit to Ski Wentworth. Rent some gear and join other visitors to ski, snowboard, or snowshoe on the beginner-friendly slopes. If you don’t know the first thing about these winter sports, you can take a lesson from the professionals at Ski Wentworth before heading to the slopes.
7. Play some tennis at the Cougar Dome
Cougar Dome is one of the most popular and exciting sports centers in Truro. Drop in here to practice tennis, golf, and soccer. You will also meet some locals to play with and instructors that teach all levels.
8. Rock the Hub
You will love it here at Rock the Hub! This is the biggest rock festival in Nova Scotia, hosting local and international artists. If you happen to be in Truro, NS, during this festival, you should get a ticket.
9. Truro Farmers Market
Truro Farmers Market opens every Saturday between 8 am to 1 pm, and it’s one of the most popular places to shop. You will find over 50 vendors selling everything from jewelry, and handcrafted woodwork to local products and Nova Scotia wines. And if you do not intend to buy anything, the beautiful gathering space is worth enjoying.
10. See a show at the Marigold Cultural Centre
This cultural center offers cultural programs and shows to residents and tourists in Truro. You can book a ticket to watch a show, concert, or play in the 208-seat theatre with other visitors. Marigold Cultural Centre also has a sports heritage hall and an art gallery where you can browse artworks from locals.
11. Tour a sugar camp at Sugar Moon Farm
Sugar Moon Farm has a log sugar camp with 2500 taps that produce maple syrup over an evaporated fire with mountain hardwood. While here, you can tour the sugar camp to learn and see how maple syrup is made. You can also stop at the on-site restaurant to enjoy quality food from local and fresh agricultural produce.
12. Tim Hortons Skate Park
This 19,031ft park is a great street-focused park to skate, regardless of your skill level. Tim Hortons Skate Park has a spot known as the Street Plaza, which features flat areas, open spaces, and designs like stairs, railings, planters, and other obstacles that emulate a natural street.
13. Meet friends for dinner at The Nook and Cranny
Nook and Cranny is a great restaurant in downtown Truro that serves burger, dish, chips, mussels, and other local delicacies. They also serve wine and beer over live music and beautiful scenery. This restaurant is sometimes crowded, especially during peak lunch hours so try to make a reservation before heading there.
14. Try a flight at Salty Dog Brewing
Head over to Salty Dog for great beer in different options and flavors. This brewery has a lot of beer options on tap for flight, and they experiment with flavors like blueberry wheat, salted rims, and jalapeno peach. That’s not all; Salty Dog Brewing has the Bay of Fundy and Cobequid Mountains in its backyard.
15. Truro Brewing Company
This female-owned brewing company produces excellent craft beer from scratch. Truro Brewing Company has five beer taps perfect for beer connoisseurs and anyone who wants a taste of local craft beer.
16. Sample some sweets at Jimolly’s Bakery Cafe
Another great thing to do in Truro, Nova Scotia, is to head over to Jimolly’s Bakery Cafe for some sandwiches, sweets, and coffee.
17. Grab a book with your beans at NovelTea Bookstore Cafe
Enjoy great coffee or tea, snacks, or sweets, along with a book of your choice. The vibe and aesthetic here make it a perfect place to unwind and read words from literary gems.
18. Shop local products at My Home Mercantile
If there is one thing Truro is known for, it is the unique shops and businesses where you can buy anything you want. One of the best places to shop for local products in Truro is My Home Mercantile. You will find gift items, decorative products, clothing, food, candles, and anything you can think of buying.
19. Christie Brook Falls
This popular trail features three beautiful waterfalls that you can hike for about 51 minutes. The trail to the first waterfall is flat, easy, and perfect for river walking and beginner hiking. The trail between the second and third waterfalls is a little challenging so bring your study shoes to survive the rocks and steeps.
20. Learn how bees and self-care mix at Anther & Apiary
Owned by a local beekeeper, this store provides skincare products from honey and beeswax. This shop is fantastic for getting gifts and skincare products like bath soaks, deodorants, body cream, and calendula salve.
When is the best time to visit Truro?
The best time to visit Truro, Nova Scotia would likely be during the summer months of June, July, and August when the weather is warm and the many outdoor attractions and activities are available. However, it will depend on what you’re interested in seeing and doing. For example, if you’re interested in viewing fall foliage, the best time to visit would be in late September or early October. If you’re interested in skiing or snowboarding, the best time to visit would be in the winter months. Keep in mind that during the peak of summer, it can be quite busy and accommodation prices may be higher.
Do you need a car to visit Truro?
It depends on your personal preferences and the nature of your visit to Truro, NS. Having a car would give you greater flexibility and allow you to easily explore the surrounding areas, but it is not necessary. Public transportation, such as buses, and taxis are available in the city, and it is also possible to get around by walking or biking. Additionally, many hotels and other forms of lodging offer shuttle services to and from nearby airports, train stations, and bus stations.
Is Truro worth visiting?
Truro is a great base for exploring the surrounding areas, such as the Cobequid Bay, the Minas Basin, and the Five Islands Provincial Park and is definitely worth visiting.
Overall, Truro is a great destination for those looking for a mix of outdoor activities, history and culture, and small-town charm.
Where to Stay in Truro
Best Western Glengarry: This hotel is located near downtown Truro and offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and an indoor pool.
Hampton Inn & Suites Truro: This hotel is located near the highway and offers comfortable rooms, a fitness center, and an indoor pool.
Inn on Prince Hotel: This hotel is located near the highway and offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and an indoor pool.
Comfort Inn Truro: This hotel is located near the highway and offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and an indoor pool.
Super 8 by Wyndham Truro: This hotel is located near the highway and offers comfortable rooms, a fitness center, and a complimentary breakfast.
