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Museum · Halifax, Nova Scotia
Pier 21 (Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21)
The former immigration terminal at the port, through which about one million immigrants passed between 1928 and 1971, now the Canadian Museum of Immigration.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Pier 21 (Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21)
Pier 21 was Halifax’s immigration terminal from 1928 to 1971. About one million immigrants arrived through it: wartime refugees, soldiers’ brides and evacuated children, and many Canadian soldiers departed from there during the Second World War.
The building houses the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21, a national museum that tells the story of people arriving in Canada, from early settlers to the present. Exhibits use objects, suitcases, documents and recorded testimonies; there is a room that recreates a ship cabin and another about life in the first days in the country.
The museum has a family research centre where descendants search arrival records for ancestors. It is at the southern tip of the boardwalk, next to the cruise terminal and the farmers’ market.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
One and a half to two hours.
Best time
Any time of year. In summer, combine with the adjacent farmers’ market.
How to get there
At the southern end of the harbour boardwalk, about a 20-minute walk from downtown and near the VIA Rail station.
Tip
If you have ancestors who arrived in Canada by sea, bring names and dates for research at the family history centre; check whether you need an appointment.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Pier 21 (Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21)
What was Pier 21?
The immigration terminal at the Port of Halifax from 1928 to 1971, through which about one million people arrived in Canada.
Can you research ancestors at Pier 21?
Yes, at the museum’s centre for family history, with arrival records. Check conditions before you go.
Where is Pier 21 in Halifax?
At the southern end of the harbour boardwalk, next to the cruise terminal.