Best places to enjoy fall in the Capital

It’s no secret that Canada is one of the most scenic places in the world, especially during the fall when the leaves around us change from green to a range of yellow, orange, and red. Whether you live in or around the city, take a moment to enjoy all the beauty that nature has to offer.

If fall isn’t already your favourite season, we’ve compiled a list of places to go and things to do in Ottawa that’s bound to change your mind!

 

Best places to see the leaves change

Rideau Canal

Not only is the Rideau Canal known for being the world’s largest skating rink, but it’s also beautiful all year-round. During the fall, the trees along the canal look especially vibrant when set against the city buildings and the shimmering water. This place is perfect for anyone looking to see the leaves change while walking, running, or biking.

 

Gatineau Park

If you’re looking for a peaceful place to see the leaves change, head over to Gatineau Park – a conservation area just minutes away from the downtown Ottawa. Go on a refreshing weekend hike and picnic lunch as you experience the fall colours from one of the many lookout points.

There are also free weekend shuttles during the Fall Rhapsody festival from October 5 to 27!

 

Major’s Hill Park

This park in the middle of downtown Ottawa has some of the most stunning views of Parliament and the Ottawa River. Major’s Hill Park is a featured spot for Ottawa events, including the Tulip Festival, Canada Day fireworks, and more. This is the place to go if you’re looking to capture the perfect picture of the changing leaves in the Capital.         

 

Best places to pick pumpkins

Millers Farm and Marketplace

Millers Farm and Marketplace is a family owned business with unique produce and activities for every season! During the fall season, check out the local fall fresh produce and take a wagon ride out to the pumpkin patch, where you can pick your own pumpkins, squash, and gourds. There’s no admission charge to visit, and you can bring along your dog.

 

Proulx Maple and Berry Farm

Every year, the Proulx Farm hosts a pumpkin festival filled with fun activities for all, including corn field mazes, wagon rides through the mysterious forest, and haunted houses. Of course, no pumpkin patch visit is complete without picking your very own pumpkin – for a Jack-o'-lantern or pie!

 

Other fall activities

 

Saunders Farm

Looking for a good fright during Halloween season? Check out Saunders Farm, a farm by day and a haunting ground by night. There are a variety of activities at various levels of spookiness, from family-friendly hedge mazes to freaky fright sights!

 

Pumpkinferno

Experience this spectacular outdoor art exhibit in Upper Canada Village. Pumpkinferno is an annual art display of 7,000 hand carved pumpkins that light up at night and are displayed along a one kilometer path set.

 

Don’t want to go too far?

 

Find parks in your neighbourhood and get that perfect fall experience right near home!