Casino Nova Scotia
Halifax's premier casino offering slots, table games, live music, and dining in a vibrant downtown setting.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Live music and lively atmosphere
Casino Nova Scotia
Best Time
Live music and lively atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Halifax's premier casino offering slots, table games, live music, and dining in a vibrant downtown setting.
"The bright spots of the night were the fun live band and enjoying May Garden's food they definitely helped make the evening better."
🍸 Entry Policy
Security may deny entry if you've had too many drinks. Be mindful of your consumption before arriving.
🍽️ Buffet Caution
The buffet is often criticized for poor quality and high price. Consider other dining options.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Live Music & Entertainment
Main Floor
Catch local and touring artists, from country to rock, filling the casino with vibrant sounds.
Table Games & Slots
Gaming Floor
Try your luck at classic table games or a wide array of modern and traditional slot machines.
Music Hall of Fame
Bruce Guthro Theatre
Honor Nova Scotia's musical legends at the Hall of Fame induction ceremonies and events.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Dress Code & Entry
Buffet Value
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🍸 Entry Policy
Security may deny entry if you've had too many drinks. Be mindful of your consumption before arriving.
🍽️ Buffet Caution
The buffet is often criticized for poor quality and high price. Consider other dining options.
🎶 Check Event Schedule
Live bands and special performances are frequent. Check their schedule for entertainment.
🚗 Parking Availability
Parking is generally available, but can fill up during peak event times.
Tips
from all over the internet
🍸 Entry Policy
Security may deny entry if you've had too many drinks. Be mindful of your consumption before arriving.
🍽️ Buffet Caution
The buffet is often criticized for poor quality and high price. Consider other dining options.
🎶 Check Event Schedule
Live bands and special performances are frequent. Check their schedule for entertainment.
🚗 Parking Availability
Parking is generally available, but can fill up during peak event times.
💰 Set a Budget
It's easy to get caught up. Decide on a spending limit before you start playing.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Casino Nova Scotia offers a lively atmosphere with live music and a variety of gaming options. However, dining experiences, particularly the buffet, receive consistent criticism for poor quality and high prices. Service at table games can also be slow, detracting from the overall experience for some visitors.
"I haven’t been to the casino in a long time, and unfortunately, the service this time was really poor. The roulette dealers felt slow and under-trained, which made the game drag, and there was no table drink service at all, which really took away from the atmosphere.
The bright spots of the night were the fun live band and enjoying May Garden’s food they definitely helped make the evening better.
Overall, there’s potential here, but service and training need a serious upgrade to match the entertainment."
Rose Dalrymple
"For those seeking great quality food for the reasonable buffet price think again. Good news - the buffet listed here is a mere $30 per person. Bad news - the buffet listed here is a mere $30 per person. I went in with both eyes wide open and a cynical mindset in lieu of the way too reasonable $30 all-you-can-eat charge, but Casino Nova Scotia still exceeded my disappointment by serving one of the WORST meals I've ever eaten. Meaning I've had a meal at the horrible Hometown Buffet down in the neighborhood of Van Nuys, CA that was dirty as dirt - Casino Nova Scotia makes that now closed hellhole look like Cafe Sierra at Citywalk in LA. (Which serves a glorious seafood buffet for $150 a person!) First off the sides are seriously lagging. Meaning there are two sides tables to this "buffet" - but both have the exact same sides which means very little selection. Some meager and odd salad options, (cold mac and cheese...as a salad?!) plain mashed potatoes, crappy barely sauced pasta, overdone fried pickles, dry cornbread and overcooked Salmon. (The ONLY minor edible was the Alfredo sauced chicken - my guest didn't dig the garlic flavor - but when cheap as dirt chicken is your TOP meat at a Prime Rib feast you got problems!) So get to the nitty gritty - the main feature in the prime rib dinner - the prime rib. The one that drew me to this experience on a Saturday evening. (I've included a pic of what was online so you can see what I was expecting - yeah right!) Was it good? Was it sliced with picturesque medium rare glistening goodness like in the promised photo? What in fact...was there? A new roast was brought out right in front of me and it took them 5 minutes to lift it from the metal serving tray to the so called carving space dead center as it was falling apart in dripping chunks. Wet, overcooked and stringy as a yarn ball, this was the absolute worst meat I've ever had in my life. I cannot in good conscience call it prime rib - think roast beef, overdone and almost inedible. (The pic attached shows no such string stuff in it's advertising!) Finally to the desserts which were overly sweet and the only saving grace being the cobbler with fresh cream - again my guest was not a fan of the blueberries filling - but even then found what looked to be a pastry bag plastic topper in the cream on my cobbler. (Put it aside and kept eating - was starving and didn't care at that point!) So the moral here - you get what you pay for. They are using the sub-par kitchen and chefs to create a grotesque meal in a sneaky effort to get you in...to play casino games. This is not Gordon Ramsey's adjoining restaurant to compliment the ambience - this is a food that he would spit out and then close the place down. But even at mere $30 (or lesser if you are a casino gambling member) a starving hobo would feel ripped off, unsatisfied and mighty mad. Splurge on something better and avoid the con - here endeth the lesson."
FlicksForFans
"Update August 24th 2025, your silence says it all!!!!*
Update July 30th 2025, after reading several reviews with the same problem & issues, you would think management would acknowledge the review with a response, especially when they especially directed torwards women
I would love to rate but unfortunately my wife was deemed intoxicated LOL she had one Martini and the security guard refused her but the 3 girls right behind us half drunk ( please check your security cameras) I’m the guy that said your Punjabi security guard has zero tolerance for alcohol.
Funny how an establishment that serves booze isn’t kinda stupid.
Especially when half the people are gambling and drunk and let’s not forget stoned too.
Anyways thank you for saving us money and rather give my hard earned cash to the reserves."
Harry Ballas
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Casino Nova Scotia is located in downtown Halifax. You can reach it by car, taxi, or public transit. Several bus routes stop nearby. Parking is available on-site, though it can get busy during popular events.
Yes, Casino Nova Scotia offers parking facilities. It's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends or during scheduled events, as parking can fill up quickly.
Absolutely! Taxis and rideshares are a convenient way to get to and from Casino Nova Scotia, especially if you plan on enjoying drinks. There are designated drop-off and pick-up points.
Yes, Halifax Transit buses serve the downtown area, with several routes stopping within walking distance of the casino. Check the Halifax Transit schedule for the most convenient routes.
From Halifax Stanfield International Airport (YHZ), you can take a taxi, rideshare, or the MetroXpress bus (Route 320) to downtown Halifax, then transfer to a local bus or take a short taxi ride to the casino.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, entry to the gaming floor and public areas of Casino Nova Scotia is free. However, tickets are required for specific ticketed events like concerts or comedy shows held in their entertainment venues.
You must be 19 years of age or older to enter Casino Nova Scotia and participate in gaming activities. Valid government-issued photo ID is required for entry.
Yes, entry can be denied if you appear intoxicated, are underage, or do not meet the casino's dress code or conduct policies. Security has the final say.
There isn't a strict formal dress code, but smart casual attire is recommended. Avoid athletic wear, beachwear, or overly casual clothing.
Casino Nova Scotia likely offers a player's club or loyalty program. Signing up can provide benefits like discounts, rewards, and special offers. Inquire at the casino for details.
🎫 🎲 Onsite Experience
The casino features a wide variety of slot machines, from classic reels to modern video slots, as well as popular table games like Blackjack, Roulette, Poker, and Baccarat.
Yes, Casino Nova Scotia frequently hosts live music, comedy shows, and other entertainment acts, particularly on weekends. Check their schedule for upcoming performances.
The casino has several dining options, including restaurants and a buffet. However, reviews suggest the buffet may not be worth the cost, with other on-site restaurants offering better value.
Historically, table drink service has been inconsistent or unavailable, which has been a point of dissatisfaction for some visitors. It's best to check current service levels upon arrival.
Casino Nova Scotia hosts various events, including poker tournaments and themed nights. The Music Nova Scotia Hall of Fame induction is a notable annual event. 
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Reviews for the buffet are largely negative, with many describing it as overpriced and of poor quality. Common complaints include limited selection, cold food, and overcooked items.
Yes, Casino Nova Scotia has other dining establishments. Some reviews mention reasonably priced and good food at their restaurants, offering a better alternative to the buffet.
The specific cuisine varies by restaurant, but you can generally expect a mix of casual dining fare, including appetizers, main courses, and desserts. Some reviews highlight good food and reasonable prices.
Based on numerous reviews, the $30 buffet is generally not considered worth the price due to its low quality. Many visitors recommend opting for other dining options within the casino or elsewhere.
It's advisable to check with the specific restaurant within Casino Nova Scotia regarding their reservation policy. For popular times or larger groups, making a reservation is often recommended.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, photography is permitted in public areas of the casino, but it's best to avoid taking photos of other guests or their gaming screens without permission. Some specific event areas might have restrictions.
The casino's architecture and the vibrant atmosphere can make for interesting photos. The exterior shots, especially at night, and the entertainment venues can be visually appealing.
You can usually take photos of the general gaming floor, but be discreet. Avoid focusing on specific machines or individuals. Security may ask you to stop if it's causing a disturbance.
Professional photography and videography, especially for commercial purposes, may require prior authorization from casino management. Drone usage is also likely restricted.
The main entrance, the entertainment stage area when not in use, and the general gaming floor offer good opportunities. The Music Hall of Fame area might also be of interest.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If you are traveling with children to Halifax, you will need to make alternative arrangements for them if you wish to visit the casino. There are many family-friendly attractions in Halifax, such as the Discovery Centre, Halifax Waterfront, or the Halifax Public Gardens, that would be more appropriate for a family outing.
💰 Budget Travelers
Look for happy hour specials if available at the casino's bars or restaurants, or consider enjoying the free live music on the main floor as a form of entertainment without significant cost.
couples
Consider catching a show in the Bruce Guthro Theatre for a more structured entertainment experience. While dining reviews for the buffet are poor, exploring the other on-site restaurants could provide a pleasant meal for two.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Gaming Floor
When exploring the gaming floor, it's helpful to be aware of the layout. Slot machines are usually grouped together, while table games are often situated in a more central or distinct area. Many visitors recommend setting a budget before you begin playing to ensure a responsible and enjoyable experience.
It's worth noting that while the casino aims to provide a fun environment, service can sometimes be a point of contention. Some reviews mention slow dealers or a lack of table drink service, which can impact the overall experience.
Entertainment and Events
A significant highlight is the Music Nova Scotia Hall of Fame induction ceremony, which honors the province's musical talent. These events are often sold-out and celebrate the rich musical heritage of Nova Scotia.
+2 Beyond music, the casino also hosts comedy nights and other special performances, making it a versatile entertainment destination. To make the most of the entertainment offerings, it's highly recommended to check the casino's official schedule in advance. This will allow you to plan your visit around specific shows or events that interest you, and to purchase tickets if necessary.
The variety of entertainment ensures there's often something happening to suit different tastes.Dining Experiences: Beyond the Buffet
Fortunately, the casino also houses other on-site restaurants that tend to receive more favorable feedback. These establishments are often praised for offering reasonably priced and good quality food, providing a more satisfying dining experience.
For those planning a visit, it's wise to research the current restaurant offerings or inquire upon arrival about the best dining choices. Opting for one of the à la carte restaurants is generally recommended over the buffet to ensure a more enjoyable meal.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit