Olivia TaylorAs the season changes from summer to autumn, Ottawa becomes a beautiful place to explore. You can enjoy long walks in the colorful forests, sip on delicious cider by a warm bonfire, and indulge in seasonal treats.
To help you make the most of this magical time, we’ve compiled a list of 30 unique activities that genuinely capture the essence of Ottawa in the fall. So, wear your favorite sweater and discover the incredible experiences that await you in Ottawa this season!
- 1. Take a Leisurely Stroll through Major Hill Park
- 2. Take Dips in the Pools at Nordik Spa
- 3. Go on a Zipline Tour at Camp Fortune Aerial Experience
- 4. See Ottawa Valley from Above at King Mountain
- 5. Sip on a Crisp Craft Beer at Chelsea & Co. Brewery
- 6. Get up Close with Canadian Wildlife at Parc Omega
- 7. Go on a Helicopter Tour over the Ottawa Gatineau Region
- 8. Stroll through Illuminated Pumpkins at Pumpkinferno
- 9. Get Lost in a Pumpkin Maze in Citrouiville
- 10. Shop Unique Items at the One World Bazaar
- 11. Try the Pumpkin Spice Cannoli at La Bottega
- 12. Curl up with a Pumpkin Spice Latte at Planet Coffee
- 13. Stroll through the Historic Byward Market
- 14. Spend a Day Navigating Saunders Farm’s Corn Mazes
- 15. Go on a Spooky Adventure with the Haunted Walk of Ottawa
- 16. Attend a Candlelight Concert at Knox Presbyterian Church
- 17. Go on an Autumn Tree Tour at the Dominion Arboretum
- 18. Stroll through over 10,000 Pumpkins in Wesley Clover Parks
- 19. Go on a Food Trip in Hintonburg and Wellington West
- 20. Watch Films at the Ottawa International Animation Festival
- 21. Take a Photo amid the Vibrant Red Cranberry Bog Farm
- 22. Take a Scenic Hayride through at Proulx Maple & Berry Farm
- 23. Watch the Carleton University’s Annual Butterfly Show
- 24. Celebrate the Fall Bounty at Ottawa Farm Fresh’s Carrot Fest
- 25. Visit the Sawmill at Lansdowne for a Fall Haunt Experience
- 26. Fly Over Gatineau Park with Ottawa Biplane Adventures
- 27. Scramble Aboard a Spooky Hayride
- 28. Search for the Perfect Jack-O’-Lantern at Cannamore Orchards
- 29. Try All Types of Poutine at the Sparks Street Poutinefest
- 30. Learn about Indigenous Traditions at the Tagwàgi Festival
1. Take a Leisurely Stroll through Major Hill Park
Website: https://ccn-ncc.gc.ca/endroits/parc-majors-hill
Address: Mackenzie Ave, Ottawa, ON K1N 1G8, Canada
Contact details: +18004651867
Operating hours: 24/7
Major’s Hill Park is a historic urban oasis boasting over 190 years of character. Established in 1826, it’s the capital city’s oldest park and overlooks the Rideau Canal, which meets the Ottawa River.
Sugar maples, red oaks, and yellow birches transform the landscape in the fall, creating a vibrant tapestry against the crisp autumn air. The park has serene walking paths that meander, perfect for strolling or jogging.
| Pro tip: Head to the park early in the morning to witness the sunrise paint the changing leaves in a magical golden glow. |
2. Take Dips in the Pools at Nordik Spa
Website: https://chelsea.lenordik.com/
Address: 16 Chem. Nordik, Chelsea, QC J9B 2P7, Canada
Contact details: +18198271111
Operating hours: 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Nordik Spa-Nature is a haven of tranquility, boasting the title of North America’s largest spa. This Chelsea gem offers a unique experience that blends Scandinavian-inspired thermal baths with the breathtaking natural landscape.
Surround yourself with the changing hues of the leaves as you unwind in one of the many outdoor baths, each offering a different temperature for a truly therapeutic circuit.
For a truly unforgettable experience, consider booking a massage or body treatment.
| Pro tip: Take advantage of the Aufguss ritual, a unique European tradition where essential oils are infused into the sauna air to create an invigorating and cleansing experience. |
3. Go on a Zipline Tour at Camp Fortune Aerial Experience
Website: http://campfortune.com/
Address: 300 Chem. Dunlop, Chelsea, QC J9B 2N3, Canada
Contact details: +18198271717
Operating hours: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Camp Fortune Aerial Experience is an exhilarating aerial park with a network of suspended walkways, monkey bridges, and ziplines that wind through the trees.
During peak fall, the leaves transform into a kaleidoscope of colors, creating a stunning backdrop for your aerial adventure. The aerial courses are designed for all ages and abilities, so you and your friends can challenge yourself to an adventurous day out.
| Pro tip: You’ll be climbing and walking often, so wear clothes and shoes that allow you to move quickly. From the top of the course, you can take in the breathtaking views of the Gatineau Hills. |
4. See Ottawa Valley from Above at King Mountain
Website: https://ncc-ccn.gc.ca/places/king-mountain
Address: Central Coast, BC V0T 1H0, Canada
King Mountain boasts the title of the highest point on the Eardley Escarpment, offering hikers a rewarding challenge with its moderately tricky trail. The 1.9-kilometer loop winds through beautiful forests before opening up to stunning vistas.
Imagine standing atop King Mountain, crisp fall air filling your lungs as you gaze at the Gatineau Hills and the Ottawa River. As you descend, look for the interpretive panels along the trail that share interesting facts about the local flora and fauna.
| Pro tip: Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy a leisurely meal at the numerous lookouts along the trail. Taking a break to soak up the beauty of the fall foliage will surely be a memorable experience. |
5. Sip on a Crisp Craft Beer at Chelsea & Co. Brewery
Website: https://chelseaco.ca/
Address: 6 Ch. Douglas, Chelsea, QC J9B 1K4, Canada
Contact details: +18197773700
Operating hours: Thursday to Sunday – 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Chelsea & Co. is renowned for its hyper-local beers, all crafted with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Their selection features a variety of styles to suit every palate, from light and refreshing IPAs to rich and flavorful stouts.
During the fall season, they often offer unique seasonal beers that incorporate the season’s warm spices and comforting flavors. Large windows overlook the changing leaves, so you can soak in the autumn scenery while savoring your favorite brew.
| Pro tip: If you plan on visiting Chelsea & Co. during the fall season, dress in layers. Take a walk or bike through the nearby Gatineau Park to immerse yourself in the fall foliage. |
6. Get up Close with Canadian Wildlife at Parc Omega
Website: http://www.parcomega.ca/
Address: 399 QC-323, Montebello, QC J0V 1L0, Canada
Contact details: +18194235487
Operating hours: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Parc Omega is a wildlife park where you can observe Canadian animals roaming freely in their natural habitat. Spanning over 2,200 acres, the park features a 12-kilometer self-drive safari route that allows you to see animals like elk, wolves, bears, and foxes.
Since it’s a wildlife park, educational talks are held throughout the day so you can learn more about the animals and their conservation. There’s also a walking trail to leave the car and explore the park on foot.
| Pro tip: Visit on a weekday to avoid crowds. At the entrance, purchase a bag of carrots to feed the deer and other friendly animals. |
7. Go on a Helicopter Tour over the Ottawa Gatineau Region
Website: https://www.heli-tremblant.com/en/
Address: 4Y5, 11 Aviation Pkwy, Ottawa, ON K1K 2X5, Canada
Contact details: +16134475662
Operating hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Héli-Tremblant is a helicopter tour agency that offers scenic flights around the region, including the beautiful Mont-Tremblant National Park. During fall, the Ottawa Gatineau region explodes with vibrant colors as the leaves turn yellow, orange, and red.
With a helicopter tour, you’ll witness a breathtaking panorama of the Ottawa Gatineau region ablaze with fall colors. You’ll also soar above the treetops and get a bird’ s-eye view of the changing landscape.
| Pro tip: Book your tour in advance, especially during peak fall foliage season, as flights can fill up quickly. Dress warmly for your helicopter tour, as it can be chilly at higher altitudes, especially during the fall. |
8. Stroll through Illuminated Pumpkins at Pumpkinferno
Website: http://www.uppercanadavillage.com/
Address: 13740 County Rd 2, Morrisburg, ON K0C 1X0, Canada
Contact details: +18004372233
Held at Upper Canada Village, Pumpkinferno is an award-winning event that transforms the historic site into a magical wonderland. Guests can take a nighttime walk along a one-kilometer path lined with artistically carved and illuminated pumpkins.
The pumpkins are not your average jack-o’-lanterns. Each is meticulously hand-crafted by talented artists from the Eastern Ontario region. Then, enjoy a delicious harvest meal, browse seasonal treats at the vendors, or participate in fun activities for the kids.
| Pro tip: Purchase your tickets online in advance, as Pumpkinferno is a popular event, and tickets can sell out quickly. Be sure to dress warmly, as the nights can get chilly. |
9. Get Lost in a Pumpkin Maze in Citrouiville
Website: https://citrouilleville.com/
Address: 560 69e Avenue, Saint-Zotique, QC J0P 1Z0, Canada
Contact details: +14387006318
Citrouiville transforms from a working farm into a festive pumpkin paradise during fall. As you enter the gates, you’ll be greeted by a vibrant display of all shapes and sizes of pumpkins.
A massive corn maze is a challenge perfect for all ages and offers a fun and engaging activity for families and friends. You can also take a hayride through the scenic pumpkin fields, enjoying the crisp fall air and the vibrant autumn tapestry.
| Pro tip: Sample their homemade apple cider or warm up with hot chocolate. They also have a variety of pumpkin-themed snacks, from pies to donuts, that are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. |
10. Shop Unique Items at the One World Bazaar
Website: http://oneworldbazaar.ca/
Address: 6110 Mitch Owens Rd, Manotick Station, ON K4M 1B2, Canada
Contact details: +16138224038
The One World Bazaar is a unique marketplace housed inside a historic barn in Manotick Station. Thousands of handcrafted items, sourced directly from artisans worldwide, fill the space with a vibrant kaleidoscope of colors and textures.
The festive atmosphere makes it a perfect place to find special gifts for loved ones or unique pieces to add a touch of global flair to your home. They often host special events throughout the fall, featuring live music and food demonstrations.
| Pro tip: The One World Bazaar is only open during fall, so plan your visit accordingly. Before you go, check the website for exact dates and hours of operation. |
11. Try the Pumpkin Spice Cannoli at La Bottega
Website: https://www.labottega.ca/pages/eat-in-take-out
Address: 2685 Iris St, Ottawa, ON K2C 3S4, Canada
Contact details: 613-789-7575
Operating hours: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
La Bottega Nicastro is a haven for all things Italian. Stepping inside, you’ll be greeted by shelves overflowing with authentic Italian groceries – cured meats, vibrant cheeses, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh pasta of every shape and size.
The friendly staff, many of whom are family members, are passionate about sharing their love for Italian cuisine. They can help you navigate the vast selection and pick the perfect ingredients to create a heartwarming fall feast.
| Pro tip: Don’t miss their selection of house-made sausages – perfect for adding a savory touch to your fall meals. |
12. Curl up with a Pumpkin Spice Latte at Planet Coffee
Website: http://www.planetcoffeeottawa.ca/
Address: 24a York St, Ottawa, ON K1N 1K2, Canada
Contact details: +16137896261
Operating hours: 7:30 AM to 7:00 PM
Planet Coffee is a warm and inviting coffee shop in Ottawa’s ByWard Market, known for its delicious, locally sourced coffee and friendly atmosphere. During the fall season, the magic truly comes alive.
As the crisp autumn air settles in, the aroma of seasonal coffee blends like pumpkin spice and maple pecan fills the air. The bright, industrial space with its large windows offers the perfect spot to cozy up with a book and enjoy the vibrant fall foliage.
| Pro tip: Pair your fall-inspired coffee with a slice of their homemade pumpkin bread – the perfect way to embrace the autumn flavors. |
13. Stroll through the Historic Byward Market
Website: https://www.byward-market.com/
Address: 55 Byward Market Square, Ottawa, ON K1N 9C3, Canada
Contact details: +16132444410
Operating hours: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
ByWard Market is a lively and historic marketplace featuring a mix of old and new. Its cobblestone streets are lined with shops, boutiques, restaurants, and cafes, and during the Fall Season, It transforms into a vibrant hub of autumnal activity.
The crisp autumn air is filled with the aroma of pumpkin spice and roasting chestnuts as vendors showcase their seasonal wares. Stop by a local bakery to sample their freshly baked pumpkin pies and bread, or visit a cheese shop.
| Pro tip: Watch for street performers and musicians, who often add to the lively atmosphere. A visit to the ByWard Market would be complete with a BeaverTail, a delicious Canadian pastry made from fried dough. |
Website: http://www.saundersfarm.com/
Address: 7893 Bleeks Rd A, Ottawa, ON K0A 3P0, Canada
Contact details: +16138385440
Saunders Farm is a 100-acre award-winning farm attraction located in Ottawa’s countryside. During fall, Saunders Farm transforms into a harvest festival wonderland with 12 mazes to explore, including a spooky haunted maze.
You can also enjoy original live shows and hayride adventures through beautifully landscaped gardens, parades with harvest themes, puppet shows, and unique play structures designed for all ages.
| Pro tip: There are farm-fresh foods available and 15 acres of pumpkins to choose from, perfect for picking your own jack-o-lantern. Don’t forget to stop by the Farm Shop before you leave to stock up on cider, farm-to-table delights, housewares, and toys. |
15. Go on a Spooky Adventure with the Haunted Walk of Ottawa
Website: http://www.hauntedwalk.com/
Address: 46 1/2 Sparks St., Ottawa, ON K1P 5A8, Canada
Contact details: +16132320344
Operating hours: 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM
The Haunted Walk of Ottawa takes you on a lantern-lit journey through some of Ottawa’s most historic and supposedly haunted locations. The crisp autumn air adds to the spooky atmosphere, the perfect time to hear tales of Ottawa’s ghostly past.
Your guide will regale you with stories of ghosts and hauntings as you walk. You’ll hear about the Lady in Grey, who is said to haunt the Fairmont Château Laurier, the ghosts of prisoners who are said to roam the halls of the Ottawa Jail Hostel.
| Pro tip: Because the tours can be chilly, especially in the later fall months, dress in layers so you can adjust to the changing temperatures. During your tour, be sure to ask your guide about any personal experiences they’ve had with the paranormal. |
16. Attend a Candlelight Concert at Knox Presbyterian Church
Website: https://www.knoxottawa.ca/
Address: 120 Lisgar St, Ottawa, ON K2P 2L7, Canada
Contact details: +16132384774
Knox Presbyterian Church is a beautiful Gothic Revival church in the heart of Ottawa’s vibrant Quartier des Arts district. The warm glow creates a magical atmosphere during a candlelight concert, making it the perfect place to relax.
In the fall, Ottawa transforms into a kaleidoscope of colors. After the concert, the crisp autumn air is perfect for a stroll through the city’s many parks and gardens, such as Major Hill’s Park or the Canadian Arboretum.
| Pro tip: Take a walk or bike ride along the Rideau Canal. The canal is a beautiful spot to enjoy the fall foliage and a great place to people-watch. |
17. Go on an Autumn Tree Tour at the Dominion Arboretum
Website: https://friendsofthefarm.ca/plan-your-visit/attractions/
Address: Arboretum, Ottawa, ON K1A 0C6, Canada
Contact details: +16137591982
Spanning over 40 hectares, the Dominion Arboretum is a haven for nature lovers in Ottawa. Established in 1889, it’s not only the oldest arboretum in Canada but also one of the most northerly arboretums on the continent.
This vast green space boasts over 4,000 trees and shrubs. As you wander through the arboretum, watch for some of its unique features, like the Ornamental Gardens, the lilac collection boasting over 250 varieties, and the Pinetum, a haven for conifers.
| Pro tip: Pack a picnic basket and enjoy a leisurely lunch amidst the vibrant fall foliage. Several designated picnic areas are scattered throughout the arboretum, offering scenic spots to relax and soak up the beauty of nature. |
18. Stroll through over 10,000 Pumpkins in Wesley Clover Parks
Website: http://www.wesleycloverparks.com/
Address: 401 Corkstown Rd, Nepean, ON K2H 8T1, Canada
Contact details: +16132715452
Operating hours: Monday to Friday – 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Pumpkins After Dark transforms Wesley Clover Parks into a magical Halloween wonderland during the fall season. Skilled artists carve these pumpkins into elaborate displays, from classic Halloween characters to dinosaurs and pop culture icons.
The event also features live pumpkin carving demonstrations so attendees can see the artistry up close. There’s also live entertainment, food trucks with fall treats, and plenty of photo opportunities.
| Pro tip: The earlier you go in the season, the smaller the crowds will be. Remember to bundle up, as it can get chilly in the evenings! |
19. Go on a Food Trip in Hintonburg and Wellington West
Website: http://www.wellingtonwest.ca/
Address: 1292 Wellington St. W Suite 101, Ottawa, ON K1Y 3A9, Canada
Contact details: +16137290363
Operating hours: Monday to Friday – 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
The TASTE of Wellington West festival celebrates Hintonburg and Wellington Village’s unique culinary scene. Over 100 restaurants and shops line Wellington West, offering free samples of their signature dishes and fall-inspired treats.
Live music fills the air, with local artists performing on stages scattered throughout the festival. Sidewalk sales are the perfect opportunity to snag clothing, homeware, and seasonal décor deals.
| Pro tip: Take advantage of the opportunity to support a worthy cause. The TASTE of Wellington West raises funds for the Parkdale Food Centre, a vital organization that provides essential food programs to those in need within the community. |
20. Watch Films at the Ottawa International Animation Festival
Website: http://www.animationfestival.ca/
Address: 2 Daly Ave #222, Ottawa, ON K1N 6E3, Canada
Contact details: +16132328769
Operating hours: Monday to Friday – 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Held annually in September, the Ottawa International Animation Festival transforms Canada’s capital city into a hub for animation enthusiasts. From independent shorts to feature-length films, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
You can attend industry talks and panels to learn about the latest trends in animation or participate in workshops and exhibits to get your creative juices flowing. At the festival’s many social events, you can also mingle with fellow animation fans and creators.
| Pro tip: Book your tickets and accommodation in advance, as the festival attracts visitors worldwide. Don’t miss the chance to attend the festival’s signature Awards Gala, where the best-animated films of the year are honored. |
21. Take a Photo amid the Vibrant Red Cranberry Bog Farm
Website: http://www.uc-cranberries.com/
Address: 2283 Stagecoach Rd, Greely, ON K4P 1N4, Canada
Contact details: +16137986232
Established in 1996, Upper Canada Cranberries is a 15-acre farm, the sole commercial cranberry grower in Eastern Ontario. During the fall season, the cranberry bog transforms into a breathtaking crimson red sea, offering visitors a visual feast.
Here, a special harvester called an eggbeater churns the water to dislodge the cranberries from the vines. The floating cranberries are then corralled and scooped up for processing.
| Pro tip: Wear waterproof boots during your visit to the cranberry farm. The boggy areas can get muddy, especially after a rain shower. Before you leave, don’t forget to sample some of their delicious cranberry products. |
22. Take a Scenic Hayride through at Proulx Maple & Berry Farm
Website: https://proulxfarm.com/
Address: 1865 O’Toole Rd, Ottawa, ON K4C 1N2, Canada
Contact details: +16138332417
Operating hours: Saturday to Sunday – 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Proulx Maple & Berry Farm is a third-generation, family-run farm in rural Ottawa. It is well-known for its high-quality maple syrup, produced from over 200-year-old maple trees.
The farm comes alive with the sights and sounds of fall during its annual Pumpkin Festival. This festive event features a pumpkin patch where you can pick your pumpkins, a corn maze to navigate through, and delicious autumn treats.
| Pro tip: While at the farm, visit the sugar shack and sample the famous maple syrup. They also sell maple products, such as maple butter, taffy, and candy. |
23. Watch the Carleton University’s Annual Butterfly Show
Website: https://carleton.ca/
Address: 1125 Colonel By Dr, Ottawa, ON K1S 5B6, Canada
Contact details: +16135202600
Operating hours: Monday to Friday – 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
The Carleton University Butterfly Show is a unique Ottawa fall tradition held during the days leading into Thanksgiving weekend. This free event transforms the Nesbitt Biology Centre greenhouses into a tropical paradise.
Over 1300 butterflies take flight in this lush, humid environment. As you wander the pathways, marvel at the stunning Blue Morpho butterflies, some with wingspans reaching nearly eight inches, or watch in fascination as a Zebra Longwing
| Pro tip: Kids have the opportunity to feed them sliced nectarines and other fruits. Be sure to bring your camera to capture close-up shots of these beautiful butterflies. |
24. Celebrate the Fall Bounty at Ottawa Farm Fresh’s Carrot Fest
Website: http://www.ottawafarmfresh.com/
Address: 2811 Ramsayville Rd, Gloucester, ON K1G 3N2, Canada
Contact details: [email protected]
Operating hours: Thursday to Friday – 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Ottawa Farm Fresh allows you to participate in the harvest and experience the joy of a working farm. During Carrot Fest, typically held on the first weekend of October, the farm transforms into a community event.
Visitors of all ages can participate in harvesting over 10,000 pounds of carrots, a task made more fun with live music, a community potluck lunch, and a chance to meet others passionate about local food.
| Pro tip: Wear comfortable shoes and clothes you don’t mind getting dirty, as you’ll pull carrots from the ground. Remember to bring your camera since the carrot patches at Ottawa Farm Fresh are a beautiful sight. |
25. Visit the Sawmill at Lansdowne for a Fall Haunt Experience
Website: http://www.saundersfarm.com/
Address: 7893 Bleeks Rd A, Ottawa, ON K0A 3P0, Canada
Contact details: +16138385440
The Sawmill at Lansdowne is a must-visit during fall because of its unique blend of scares and historical setting. The haunted attraction is built around a real, unearthed sawmill from the 1800s, adding a layer of authenticity to the experience.
You’ll dodge creepy characters and get a glimpse into Ottawa’s rich industrial past. Whether you’re a seasoned horror enthusiast or enjoy a unique fall outing, this attraction will leave you with scares and historical immersion.
| Pro tip: If you’re easily scared, it is advisable to visit The Sawmill at Lansdowne with a group of friends. While dodging creepy characters, take a moment to appreciate the bits of history scattered around the attraction. |
26. Fly Over Gatineau Park with Ottawa Biplane Adventures
Website: https://www.ottawaaviationadventures.com/
Address: 11 Aviation Pkwy, Ottawa, ON K1K 4Y5, Canada
Contact details: +16133167229
Operating hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Gatineau Park, a massive nature reserve on the outskirts of Ottawa, transforms into a vibrant tapestry of color during the fall season. From late September to mid-October, sugar maples, red oaks, and yellow birch trees explode in a riot of reds and oranges.
Soaring through the crisp autumn air in an open-cockpit biplane, you’ll have an unparalleled front-row seat to this stunning display. As you fly over, you can take in the full scope of the park’s fall foliage, making it an unforgettable experience.
| Pro tip: Book your flight in advance, especially during peak fall foliage season, as biplane rides tend to get booked quickly. |
27. Scramble Aboard a Spooky Hayride
Website: http://www.saundersfarm.com/
Address: 7893 Bleeks Rd A, Ottawa, ON K0A 3P0, Canada
Contact details: +16138385440
Saunders Farm in Ottawa transforms into a Halloween wonderland during the fall. With over 30 years of experience in frightening folks, Saunders Farm’s FrightFest is a must-visit for anyone looking for a spooky fall adventure.
The main event is the legendary Haunted Hayride, where you’ll climb aboard a creaky wagon and embark on a thrilling journey through the fields. For a more classic scare, wander through the Graveyard Scare Zone or the chilling Barn of Terror.
| Pro tip: If you’re visiting with a younger crew, stick to the daytime activities offered by Saunders Farm during the fall season, like pumpkin picking and hayrides that are less spooky. |
28. Search for the Perfect Jack-O’-Lantern at Cannamore Orchards
Website: http://www.cannamoreorchard.com/
Address: 1480 County Rd 32, Crysler, ON K0A 1R0, Canada
Contact details: +16134483633
Cannamore Orchards transforms into a wonderland of autumn during the fall, with fields bursting with colorful pumpkins of all shapes and sizes. Beyond pumpkin picking, Cannamore Orchards offers a variety of seasonal delights.
Their on-site store boasts fresh, locally sourced goodies like honey, maple syrup, and apple cider, perfect for warming you up after your pumpkin hunt. Cannamore Orchards provides a fun-filled corn maze for the little ones, adding a touch of playful adventure.
| Pro tip: Arrive early on weekends, especially during peak pumpkin picking season (typically late September to mid-October), to avoid crowds and ensure you get your pick of the perfect pumpkin. |
29. Try All Types of Poutine at the Sparks Street Poutinefest
Website: http://www.ottawapoutinefest.ca/
Address: 110 Laurier Ave W, Ottawa, ON K2P 2H9, Canada
Contact details: +16138515752
Sparks Street is a pedestrian mall in downtown Ottawa lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes. In the fall, it comes alive with the Sparks Street Poutinefest, which takes place over a four-day weekend in October.
This annual event features vendors from all over Canada serving up their unique take on poutine. From traditional poutine with cheese curds and gravy to creative varieties with pulled pork, lobster, or foie gras, there’s a poutine for every taste bud.
| Pro tip: Come hungry. There are many different poutine vendors at the festival, each with their unique take on this classic Canadian dish, so try a few different ones to find your favorite. |
30. Learn about Indigenous Traditions at the Tagwàgi Festival
Website: https://indigenous-experiences.ca/
Address: 4420 W Hunt Club Rd, Nepean, ON K2R 1E7, Canada
Contact details: +16138385558
Held annually at Mādahòkì Farm, a new Indigenous attraction and gathering place in Ottawa, the Tagwàgi Festival is a vibrant celebration of fall. The name Tagwàgi comes from the Anishinaabemowin language and means “autumn.”
Live cultural performances and storytelling take place on the Celebration Stage. Visitors can also walk the Legacy Trail and learn about the plants, moons, and wildlife important to Indigenous culture.
| Pro tip: Meet the rare Ojibwe Spirit Horses. These beautiful horses are a cultural symbol for the Ojibwe people and will surely highlight your visit to the Tagwàgi Festival. |
