Ten things to do while in Yarmouth
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Cape Forchu Lightstation
Towering over the jagged coastline at the edge of Yarmouth is the Cape Forchu Lightstation. Enjoy a guided tour with the lighthouse keeper, visit the museum, have a picnic lunch while taking in the scenery, or take a walk on the surrounding hiking trails. You’ll quickly see why this site has been declared Canada’s Best Public Space.
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Le Village historique acadien de la Nouvele-Ecosee
Take a stroll back through time—through the early 1900s to be exact—and see firsthand how the Acadians of the area lived. The Historical Acadian Village of Nova Scotia is set on a 17-acre site that overlooks the visually stunning Pubnico Harbour. Watch re-enactments and demonstrations of how Acadians in this area worked and lived over a hundred years ago. Discover their language and become immersed in a special, rich culture.
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Yarmouth Harbour Tours
Don’t take off your sea legs just yet! The best way to explore a town with such a rich seafaring history is, of course, by boat. Embark on a Yarmouth Harbour tour aboard a working fishing vessel. Learn about how this was once considered the most active shipping centre in the world!
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Experience the Darkest Skies
Yarmouth County is most special after the lights go out. Here, you can see the night sky the way it was meant to be seen… the rings of Saturn, the Milky Way, and galaxies beyond our own. This area is North America’s first Starlight Tourist Destination as certified by the UNESCO supported International Starlight Foundation. So, see if you can stay in the region after the sun goes down, and look up.
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Yarmouth’s Heritage District Walk
Experience the Town of Yarmouth’s Heritage District and all of the stately old homes, large churches, and other examples of charming architecture that line the streets. Stop by the Visitor Information Centre and grab a guided heritage walking tour brochure. Or download the award-winning Heritage in Your Hand app to guide you through the district.
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Living Wharves
Take a good breath of salty air and test out your fishing skills with the help of both active and retired fishers at working community wharves. Listen to their fish tales, and get a first-hand perspective of the industry from those who earn their livelihoods from the sea. There’s no better way to get a sense for Yarmouth County.
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Yarmouth Foodie Walking Tours
You won’t find fresher seafood anywhere else in the world than you will in Yarmouth, so, if you fancy yourself a foodie, book a Foodie Tour of the area. Carole will guide you to the very best beer, seafood, wine, and sweets that Yarmouth has to offer. Don’t forget to bring your appetite with you. You’re certainly going to need it.
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Yarmouth Walking Tours
Every town has its secrets… its stories. Set aside some time for a fully guided 75-minute tour to get a wonderful glimpse into Yarmouth’s past. You’ll hang on to every word of the history, folklore, and legends of this seafaring town. The stories will linger in your mind’s eye long after you leave the shores of Nova Scotia.
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Music of the Bay
Music is one of the cornerstones of Yarmouth’s colourful culture. Acadians have their own special word for a party with lots of music—such a thing is referred to as a “tyme.” When you’re on shore, watch out for the Music of the Bay (Musique de la Baie) logo throughout the area and discover the region’s lively music and folklore. Prepare to kick up your heels!
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Yarmouth County Museum
Visit this award-winning museum, and learn about Yarmouth’s seafaring history. The museum’s broad range of items, from costumes to china, is sure to have something that piques your interest. Study the Yarmouth Runic Stone, found in the area in 1812—some believe its intricate markings were carved by Leif Ericson.