As Autumn casts its colourful spell over Ottawa, the city comes alive with vibrant trees and a multitude of seasonal activities. From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in the Canadian capital. Here’s the ultimate Ottawa Fall guide to some of the best Autumn activities around the city.

1. Taste of Wellington West

Indulge your taste buds at the Taste of Wellington West event, held annually in late September. This food festival showcases the best of the local culinary scene, with restaurants and food vendors offering a variety of delicious samples. It’s a fantastic way to experience the flavours of the neighbourhood while strolling through its charming streets.

2. Apple Picking at a Local Orchard

Fall is the perfect time for apple picking, and Ottawa is surrounded by several orchards. Head to a local orchard to spend a day picking crisp, juicy apples right off the tree. Many orchards also offer other fall activities like hayrides, corn mazes, and fresh apple cider. It’s a fun and festive way to embrace the season.

Here are a few local favourites:

• Cannamore Orchards – Crysler, ON
• Apple Stock Orchard – Winchester, ON
• Mountain Orchards – Mountain, ON
• Avonmore Berry Farm –  Avonmore, ON
• Farm Dagenais – Embrun, ON
• Hall’s Apple Market – Brockville, ON

3. Enjoy the Cranberry Festival at Upper Canada Cranberries

Make your way to Upper Canada Cranberries for their annual Cranberry Festival, typically held in early October. This event celebrates the harvest with cranberry-themed activities, including tours of the cranberry bogs, tastings of cranberry products, and live entertainment. It’s a unique way to learn about this tart fruit and enjoy a day out in the country.

4. Go Pumpkin Picking at Citrouiville

For a quintessential fall experience, take a trip to Citrouiville, located about 1.5 hours from Ottawa. This charming pumpkin patch offers a variety of pumpkins to pick, along with hayrides, corn mazes, and other seasonal activities. It’s a fun day trip that captures the essence of autumn.

5. Visit Cannamore Orchards

For a day filled with family-friendly fun, head to Cannamore Orchards. Located just outside of Ottawa, this orchard offers a wide range of activities throughout the fall season, including apple and pumpkin picking, wagon rides, and a Spooky Wagon Ride for Halloween enthusiasts. Their famous “Spooky Wagon Ride” is a must for those who enjoy a good scare!

The orchard also has a store filled with fresh produce, baked goods, and other local treats, making it a perfect Autumn outing!

Read more: The Acres of Terror at Cannamore Orchards is a Spooky Halloween Experience You Can’t Miss!

5. Explore the Carleton University Butterfly Show

For a colourful indoor experience, visit Carleton University’s Annual Biology Butterfly Show. Held in the university’s greenhouse, this event showcases hundreds of butterflies in a tropical environment. It’s a mesmerizing way to escape the chill and immerse yourself in a vibrant, fluttering world.

6. Zipline Through Camp Fortune

For those seeking a thrill, Camp Fortune offers zipline adventures that let you soar through the treetops while taking in stunning fall views of Gatineau Hills. Test your balance and climbing abilities and launch yourself into the experience of a lifetime; Climb ladders, amble across zigzag bridges, balance over tight ropes, crawl through barrels, and fly through the air on the Aerial Park zip lines. A great Fall day adventure for you and the family!

7. Weekly Farmers’ Market at Lansdowne

The Lansdowne Farmers’ Market is a must-visit destination for fresh, local produce. Held every Sunday, this market features a wide range of vendors selling everything from seasonal fruits and vegetables to artisanal goods and gourmet treats. It’s a great way to support local farmers and enjoy the flavours of the season.

8. Visit Gatineau Park and Fall Rhapsody

Just a short drive from Ottawa, Gatineau Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Its extensive network of trails offers spectacular views of fall foliage. Popular spots include the Champlain Lookout for panoramic vistas and the Mackenzie King Estate for a blend of history and natural beauty.

In October, the NCC-managed parks host Fall Rhapsody, a celebration of the season’s colourful display with guided tours, photography workshops, and special events. They even offer free shuttle buses from downtown Ottawa. Don’t forget your camera—this park is a photographer’s paradise!

9. Check Out the Ottawa International Animation Festival

For a cultural experience, don’t miss the Ottawa International Animation Festival, held in late September. This event showcases animated films from around the world and includes workshops, panel discussions, and screenings. It’s a fun way to experience global creativity and innovation in animation.

10. Attend a Show at the National Arts Centre (NAC)

For a night of culture and entertainment, attend a show at the National Arts Centre (NAC). Whether you’re interested in theatre, dance, or music, the NAC offers a wide range of performances to suit all tastes. If you’re under 30, take advantage of the Under30 deal, which offers discounted tickets to many shows, making it an affordable way to enjoy world-class performances.

Read more: Under30: Experience Mind-Blowing NAC Shows for Just $15!

11. Attend a Candlelight Concert

For a unique evening out, consider attending a Candlelight Concert. These performances, often held in historical or picturesque venues, feature classical to modern music illuminated by candlelight. The intimate atmosphere and stunning visuals make for a memorable experience.

Here are just a few Candlelight Concert performances happening in Ottawa:

• Candlelight: Tribute to Coldplay & Imagine Dragons
• Candlelight: Tribute to Nirvana
• Candlelight: The Best of Hans Zimmer
• Candlelight: A Tribute to Taylor Swift
• Candlelight: A Haunted Evening of Halloween Classics
• Candlelight: Best Horror Movie Soundtracks

12. Visit Upper Canada Village

Step back in time with a visit to Upper Canada Village, located about an hour’s drive from Ottawa. This historical village offers a unique glimpse into the 1860s lifestyle, complete with costumed interpreters and authentic buildings.

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I hope the ultimate Fall guide has inspired you! Whether you’re taking in the natural beauty of the city, diving into its vibrant cultural scene, or enjoying seasonal festivities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

So bundle up, embrace the Autumn spirit, and make the most of this beautiful season in the Canadian capital!

Safe travels,

Carina

P.S. Feel free to leave a comment if you have more fun ideas and activities to add to the Fall Guide!

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