Introduction
This charming downtown core is considered to be the true centre of Dartmouth. Bordered by Hawthorne Street to the north, Erskine Street to the east, Dahlia Street to the west, and the Waterfront to the south, Downtown Dartmouth is an area booming with development. From the King’s Wharf condos to the Two if by Sea Cafe, Downtown Dartmouth is a neighbourhood on the rise.
Lifestyle
With a variety of activities and close proximity to local attractions, Downtown Dartmouth is urban living at its best. Banks and government offices co-exist with the community-focused elements like the Alderney Farmer’s Market. There are many local businesses lining Ochterloney Street and Portland Street. But best of all, this neighbourhood feels lively without being rushed. Its small size provides all the benefits of a downtown core without ever feeling cramped.
The Vibe
Talk to anyone in the area and they’ll tell you that good things are happening in Downtown Dartmouth. New businesses are opening up every day and more people are considering this community to be a viable alternative to Halifax for work and play. Residents are eager to take advantage of the newfound vitality that Downtown Dartmouth has to offer and the positive atmosphere reflects this.
Meet the Neighbours
Longtime residents make up a good portion of the population downtown, but the area is attracting a lot of new community members. New condos have been developed on King’s Wharf that appeal to working professionals eager for a waterfront deal and a quick ferry commute to their jobs in Halifax, while the new restaurants and cultural scene are bringing in a younger crowd.
In the Area
Alderney Landing is a fantastic resource right in the heart of Downtown Dartmouth. You’ll find the Dartmouth Ferry Terminal for easy commuting to Halifax, the Alderney Gate Public Library, an NSLC outlet for beer and wine, and the Farmers' Market, which operates every Saturday and Sunday and features the area’s best local produce, bread, sweets and fish.
4.9 km
Planes, Trains & Automobiles
Downtown Dartmouth's close proximity to the water makes ferry service a great option for zipping over to Halifax. There are also a number of bus routes available on King Street and Alderney Drive that provide access to Halifax and the surrounding areas of Dartmouth. If you’re driving, there’s the nearby MacDonald Bridge for quick passage across the water.
The Good, the Bad & the Rest
While Downtown Dartmouth is rapidly evolving, it might not be happening fast enough for some. There are still only a handful of nightlife options, so the “big city” aspects might seem small for those from larger cities in Canada. However, what exists here is authentic to the area and the promise of more to come has residents excited for the future.
Dollars & Sense
Downtown Dartmouth is a real treasure trove for bargain hunters. Most shops and restaurants like the Bodega Boutique or The Wooden Monkey are reasonably priced and offer up trendy fare without the high prices. However, since elements of gentrification are apparent, it’s doubtful that these deals are going to last forever. In the meantime, the neighbourhood remains quite budget-friendly.
Gallery
Neighbourhood Hotspots
Alderney Farmer’s Market
This year-round market features a variety of vendors who sell locally grown produce, fresh baked bread, and plenty more. New vendors are always popping up, so it’s worth frequent trips to see what’s new.
more infoTwo if by Sea Cafe
This local espresso bar/bakeshop offers one of Dartmouth’s best cappuccinos along with a wide assortment of croissants and pastries baked onsite. Residents also come here for the monthly meal series, “TIBS Family Dinners”.
more infoCeltic Corner
Cold Guinness and classic pub fare make the Celtic Corner worth a visit if you’re looking for a place to watch the game. There's also live music most nights and an amazing rooftop patio.
more infoQuaker House
In the 1780s, a group of whalers were sent from Nantucket to Dartmouth, and the Quaker House is the last remaining building they inhabited. Built in 1786, it’s Dartmouth’s oldest residential property.
more infoSugar Shok
Dartmouth’s wildest candy shop is a neon green smorgasbord of sugar-filled treats. Check out their ice cream and milkshakes when you’re in the mood for something special to enjoy in warm weather.
more infoThe Bike Pedaler
Downtown Dartmouth’s go-to stop for new and used bikes, service, and maintenance. Rentals are also available and the helpful staff will tell you all the nearby trails worth checking out.
more info