Sydney, Nova Scotia, known as the ocean gateway to Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia, serves as the historic capital and is the largest urban center on the island. The area offers a variety of activities that showcase the region’s natural beauty, culture, and history. Here are some top things to do in Sydney.
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Admire the Natural Beauty of Cape Breton
Sydney is the starting point for a vacation filled with scenic drives, hikes, and water sports. Check out the many parks and trails.
One of the most scenic drives in the world, the Cabot Trail takes you through stunning highlands, along coastal cliffs, and through charming villages. Embark on a scenic hike and explore the picturesque towns of Cape Breton. This area is a photographer’s dream – especially in the fall when the leaves are in high color!
The Cape Breton Highlands National Park is filled with breathtaking landscapes. Explore the mountains, forests, and coastal cliffs. Explore the park’s scenic trails like the Skyline Trail, the Coastal Trail and the Jack Pine Trail. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife sightings along the way. Have a few days to explore? The park offers great spots for camping.
Check out Bras d’Or Lake! This large, saltwater lake is perfect for boating, kayaking, and fishing. You will also enjoy scenic drives and water sports.
Mira River Provincial Park is a peaceful provincial park with opportunities for swimming, boating, and hiking. Relax in nature and enjoy a picnic or a swim in the river.
Visit Historic Sites
There are several historic sites in and around Sydney. Museums, churches, and historic homes abound in the city. Two of my favorites are the Jost House and St George’s Church.
The Jost House
Don’t miss touring the Jost House when you are in Sydney. Built in 1786, it is the oldest still-standing wooden house in town. Thomas Jost, a Halifax merchant, operated the Jost General Store and raised his family in the home. Docents wearing period appropriate clothing will fascinate you with stories from the colonial times.
The tour begins in the cellar where you will find the original fireplace and beehive oven, both restored and functioning. The ground floor served primarily as the store while an upper floor extension included five bedrooms and a plumbed bathroom. The addition of a coal-fired furnace and radiators provided newly fashionable central heating to the home.
St George’s Church
Don’t be surprised if you are greeted by the “Governor Des Bares” when you visit St George’s Church. A costumed greeter sits just outside the door to welcome you. When the town of Sydney was established in 1785, the first matter of business was to build a church for the soldiers to pray in. King George III gave the Governor 500 pounds for construction – which was not nearly enough on its own. So the church was built using finely cut stones from the ruins of the Fortress of Louisberg.
Discover the stunning stained-glass windows, gothic steeple and bell tower. Inside, you will find a grand Gothic Arch from floor to ceiling with the words, “Holy, Holy, Holy Lord God Almighty” inscribed on it. On the western wall you will find two wooden plaques containing the Ten Commandments, The Lord’s Prayer, and the Apostles Creed. These are the oldest antiques in the church. This church was built for the military. Therefore, you will notice that instead of “Thou Shall Not Kill,” the command specifies the more accurate translation, “Thou Shall Not Murder.”
History Outside the City
About 30 minutes outside the city, you will find the Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site. This is a major historical reconstruction of the 18th-century French fortress (remember, many of the original stones were taken to build the church). Take a guided tour, watch reenactments, and immerse yourself in history. This is a great site for learning about colonial life in Canada.
The Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site is about an hour outside the city. This museum is dedicated to the life and work of Alexander Graham Bell. Learn about Bell’s inventions and contributions to science and communication, as well as his connection to Cape Breton.
Cultural Heritage
Sydney celebrates its cultural roots. From the indigenous Mi’kmaq people to the Scottish settlers and miners, Sydney pays tribute to its heritage.
Visit the Membertou Heritage Park and community. The Mi’kmaq people of Membertou, and their ancestors, lived in this area long before the arrival of the Europeans to these lands. Their oral history and traditions are significant and unique when considering Indigenous experiences. The Mi’kmaq people maintain their culture and history as gifts that they pass down generation to generation.
Explore this cultural center focused on the traditions and history of the Mi’kmaq people. It features interactive exhibits, art, and storytelling.
Attend a local ceilidh (a traditional Scottish or Irish social gathering) or visit during the Celtic Colours International Festival in October. Cape Breton is known for its Celtic heritage. So take time to experience live Celtic music and dancing.
Visit the Cape Breton Miners’ Museum in nearby Glace Bay. Take a guided underground mine tour and explore the exhibits on mining culture and history.
The Waterfront District
Wander the lovely waterfront area filled with shops, restaurants, and scenic views. Visit the Big Fiddle! It is the largest in the world and a wonderful tribute to Sydney’s Celtic heritage. Enjoy local seafood, shop at the port artisan market, and take in the views of the harbor.
Check out Sydney and the Cape Breton Island.
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