Dartmouth Crossing | Halifax

Dartmouth Crossing is a large-scale commercial and mixed-use development located in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, within the Halifax Regional Municipality. It is one of Atlantic Canada's premier retail destinations, offering an expansive combination of shopping, entertainment, dining, lodging, and green spaces.

Location and Layout

Dartmouth Crossing is strategically situated north of the intersection of Highways 111 and 118, directly adjacent to the Burnside Business Park, the largest industrial park in Atlantic Canada. It spans approximately 207 hectares (511 acres), with around 81 hectares (200 acres) designated for retail development. The site is carefully planned with a mix of pedestrian-friendly streets, large-format commercial zones, and landscaped areas.

It is divided into multiple functional zones:

Power Centre: Featuring big-box retailers.

The Village Shops: Designed like a traditional main street with boutique outlets and pedestrian walkways.

Office and Hotel Area: With hospitality and business accommodations.

Natural Buffer Zones: With brooks, trails, and parkland integrated into the development.

Retail and Commercial Tenants

Dartmouth Crossing is home to a broad range of national and international retailers, making it a go-to destination for both essential and luxury shopping.

Anchor Tenants:

IKEA: One of the largest in eastern Canada.

Costco: With an adjoining gas station.

Walmart Supercentre

The Home Depot

Canadian Tire

Best Buy

Fashion and Outlet Stores:

Gap Factory

Banana Republic Factory Store

Tommy Hilfiger

Puma

Under Armour

Adidas

Levi's

Many of these stores are located in The Village Shops area, which recreates a walkable urban village environment with tree-lined sidewalks, brick facades, and ambient lighting.

Dining and Restaurants

There is a wide variety of dining options, catering to different tastes and budgets, from fast food to fine dining:

Quick-service: McDonald’s, Wendy’s, Tim Hortons, Starbucks, A&W, Subway

Casual and Family Dining: Boston Pizza, East Side Mario’s, Swiss Chalet

Upscale Options: The Keg Steakhouse + Bar, Moxie’s Grill & Bar

Specialty cafes and bakeries: including local and chain options offering breakfast, desserts, and coffee

Entertainment and Leisure

Dartmouth Crossing has become a family and entertainment destination, offering several attractions beyond shopping:

Cineplex Cinemas: A modern, 12-screen theatre complex with recliner seating and advanced sound systems.

Playdium: A large indoor amusement facility with arcade games, VR experiences, bowling, and other attractions geared toward children and teenagers.

Pondside Amphitheatre: A scenic venue that hosts seasonal events, community concerts, and cultural gatherings.

Go Wild! Playground: A nature-themed outdoor playground popular with families.

Accommodations

For travelers and business visitors, Dartmouth Crossing includes multiple hotels with convenient proximity to retail and entertainment facilities:

Courtyard by Marriott

Residence Inn by Marriott

Hampton Inn & Suites

These hotels are equipped with business centers, meeting rooms, pools, and fitness amenities, making the area suitable for both leisure and corporate stays.

Parks, Trails, and Natural Features

Dartmouth Crossing integrates natural elements such as:

Frenchman’s Brook and Grassy Brook: These watercourses run through the property and are preserved within green corridors.

Walking and cycling trails: Trails are designed to connect with the Shubie Park trail network and other nearby recreational areas.

Landscaped parks: Many green spaces are located throughout the development, with benches, public art, and rest areas for pedestrians.

This green integration allows for eco-conscious design while offering a relaxed atmosphere, breaking up the commercial density with refreshing natural elements.

Transportation and Accessibility

Dartmouth Crossing is easily accessible via:

Highways 111, 118, and 107, connecting to Halifax, Dartmouth, Bedford, and Eastern Passage.

Halifax Transit: Several bus routes connect Dartmouth Crossing with Downtown Dartmouth, the Bridge Terminal, and Burnside Industrial Park.

Cycling and pedestrian infrastructure: Integrated bike lanes and sidewalks support non-vehicular movement.

There is ample free parking, with multiple surface lots across the development and designated areas for hotel and long-stay guests.

Economic and Regional Impact

Since its opening in the mid-2000s, Dartmouth Crossing has played a vital role in:

Job creation: Both in construction and ongoing retail, hospitality, and maintenance roles.

Boosting regional retail: Drawing customers from across the province and even neighboring New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island.

Supporting tourism: Through its entertainment offerings and hotel infrastructure.

Summary

Dartmouth Crossing is more than a commercial plaza—it’s a fully integrated retail and lifestyle destination designed for modern urban needs. With its blend of retail, hospitality, entertainment, and natural space, it serves as one of the most dynamic and accessible commercial zones in Nova Scotia, contributing to the regional economy and enhancing the quality of life in Dartmouth and beyond.