Sometimes, it’s nice to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in a different atmosphere. Ottawa and its outskirts are home to numerous unique and diverse farms that provide just the right experience for a memorable getaway. Here’s a curated list from Ottawa Name to help you explore these hidden gems.
Farms to Visit in a Day
Not everyone can dedicate several days to relaxation, but these farms are perfect for a one-day adventure. Located within the Greenbelt area, these farms offer exciting experiences that you can easily fit into a single day.
Eastern Ottawa
This route is ideal for food lovers who enjoy fresh fruits and vegetables. Including three farms and the beautiful Mer Bleue Bog, it combines nature with gourmet delights.
- Orleans Fruit Farm: Start your day here, where local farmers grow over 25 varieties of fruits and vegetables from May to October. Guests can pick strawberries and apples on their own. Located at 1399 St. Joseph Boulevard.
- Kiwan Farm: Established in 1995, this family farm supplies fresh produce to many Ottawa farmers’ markets. A visit here offers a vibrant oasis of fruits, vegetables, herbs, and Ottawa’s finest Lebanese cucumbers. Located at 3485 Hawthorne Road.
- Ottawa Farm Fresh: A family-run backyard farm that specializes in growing organic and healthy vegetables. Find it at 2811 Ramsayville Road.
Southern Ottawa
Perfect for families, these farms combine the joys of picking organic produce and exploring the countryside.
- Local Bee Farm: Situated at 538 River Road, this family-owned farm began in 2009 when the owners discovered a bee colony near their Dunrobin home. It spans eight hectares along the Rideau River. Every September, the farm hosts “Bee Day,” where visitors can watch honey harvesting and enjoy tours.
- Log Farm: Located at 670 Cedarview Road, this historic log farm allows visitors to feed animals, explore a pioneer farmhouse, and enjoy hayrides. Saturdays feature a farmer’s market with organic goods.
- Madahoki Farm: Experience Indigenous traditions at this farm, offering traditional cuisine, artisan workshops, and an online marketplace. Open year-round at 4420 West Hunt Club Road.
- Mike’s Garden Harvest: Known for its community-supported agriculture program, this farm sells organic, chemical-free vegetables directly to visitors. Find it at 436 River Road.
- Shouldice Farms: Delight in picking strawberries and raspberries while exploring this family-friendly farm. The farm provides an enjoyable experience for visitors of all ages.
Western Ottawa
Adventures continue in Western Ottawa with these farm routes that promise unique experiences.
- Beet Box Farm: Located at 230 Davidson’s Side Road, this farm grows delicious vegetables right in the Greenbelt. Guided tours offer insights into local agriculture.
- Veggie Trail Farm: Found at 3229 Richmond Road, visitors can pick fresh vegetables and eggs, and sample local dairy products, maple syrup, and preserves.
- Foster Family Farm: Located at 333 Cedarview Road, this farm offers a range of produce, including raspberries, spinach, green beans, and sweet corn. Fresh watermelons are a seasonal highlight.
- Orchards at 101 Herzberg Road: Perfect for apple picking, these orchards also grow a variety of fruits and vegetables. Visitors enjoy taking vibrant photos amidst Ottawa’s scenic natural beauty.
Sultan Sanctuary
This family-run farm is known for its sunflower fields, which bloom from August onward. Visitors can join the harvest festivities by making a donation, with proceeds supporting animal sanctuaries.
Valleyview Little Animal Farm
This delightful farm allows children and adults to interact with animals while enjoying fun-filled activities. Highlights include:
- Creative play areas with farm-themed structures, corn mazes, swings, and a green combine harvester.
- A petting barn where children can meet friendly animals like goats.
- Puppet shows and train rides through fields of hay, soybeans, and corn.
- Country walks with picturesque views and opportunities to feed animals, including llamas, horses, and ducks.
- A farm museum showcasing tools and equipment from the past century.
- A gift shop offering farm-themed keepsakes.
Saunders Farm
Located at 7893 Bleeks Road, Saunders Farm is one of Ottawa’s most famous family farms, hosting seasonal events throughout the year. Popular attractions include hedge mazes, hayrides, and water play areas. The farm is particularly loved during Halloween for its spooky-themed activities and week-long children’s camps.
Key features include:
- Summer Maze Days: Annual events starting in early March that combine playtime with delicious refreshments.
- Farm Tours: Learn about the farm’s history, from strawberry farming to the vibrant family-friendly events it hosts today.
- Farmer’s Market: A range of local produce and handmade goods.
- Educational Programs: Day camps and school group tours that blend fun and learning.
Ottawa’s Diversity in Agritourism
Ottawa and its surrounding areas are brimming with farms, each offering unique experiences filled with the passion and dedication of their owners. These family-run farms are steeped in tradition, making them perfect for a day trip—or longer—to discover something new and embrace the beauty of rural life.
