The Riverview Hotel & Spa

Built in 1885, this upscale hotel overlooks the Halifax River and is a 9-minute walk from the beach.

Elegant, individually decorated rooms and suites have French doors and private balconies (some with river views), plus designer toiletries, flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi.

Perks include in-room continental breakfast and free bike rentals. There's also an outdoor pool, and a full-service spa with a heated waterfall pool and a mineral pool. A family-run restaurant offers live entertainment on weekends.