Carp Village

Food + Drinks

Carp is home to many local bakeries, cafes and restaurants, each offering a unique culinary experience.

You can indulge in freshly baked goods from The Carp Bakery and Your Bread Box. Check out Alice’s Village Café, Eldon’s Pantry and Wiches Cauldron Sandwich Shoppe for coffee and sandwiches.

No trip to Carp is complete without a stop at Carp Custom Creamery, an ice cream shop that serves unique flavours like “Skoreo” and sticky toffee pudding. For pub fare and drinks, head to Ridge Rock Brewing Company, The Swan At Carp or the Cheshire Cat Pub.

For a fun and sophisticated day outside, check out KIN Vineyards, a family estate winery that offers vineyard tours, tastings and curated food pairings.

Arts + Culture

Founded by a French Algonquin member of the Apitipi Anicinapek Nation, Marc Forgette shares his Indigenous culture through hands-on, authentic workshops provided at Makatew Workshops.

The Diefenbunker is Canada’s Cold War Museum. It’s a four-storey bunker designed to ensure the continuity of Canada’s government during a nuclear attack. Now it’s a National Historic Site and the world’s largest escape room!

Outdoor activities

Because Carp is a remote area of Ottawa, the opportunities for outdoor activities are endless. The village is surrounded by lush countryside, providing opportunities for hiking and nature walks along scenic trails.

Nearby Carp River offers a tranquil setting for canoeing and kayaking adventures. Carp is also known for its equestrian facilities, allowing horse enthusiasts to explore the beautiful landscapes by horseback.

The Carp Fairgrounds, a hub of community events, hosts outdoor festivals, agricultural fairs and recreational activities throughout the year, adding to the area’s vibrant outdoor scene. With it’s proximity to the Ottawa River, you can easily enjoy fishing, bird-watching and other water-related activities.

Shopping

Carp boasts a charming shopping experience that mirrors its quaint and friendly atmosphere. Home to a variety of specialty shops and boutiques that cater to an array of preferences, you’ll find all sorts of treasures here.

Main Street is dotted with locally owned stores like 3 Trees where you’ll find handmade crafts, artisanal goods and locally produced items. Head to the Farmers’ Market for fresh produce and homemade treats. Antique shops like Carp Cabin, Kondruss Galleries and Kickin’ Brass Vintage add a touch of nostalgia, showcasing vintage treasures and one-of-a-kind finds.

Nightlife

As a small town, the nightlife here is centered around community gatherings at local establishments. Carp’s pubs and taverns offer a welcoming environment for locals and tourists to unwind and enjoy a drink in a friendly setting.

Head to Ridge Rock Brewing Company, The Swan At Carp or The Cheshire Cat Pub for food and drinks with old friends and new friends alike.

Major annual events + sports

The Carp Fair, held every September, is a well-known county fair that attracts people from all over the region. With livestock displays, live entertainment, rides, nostalgic fair food and much more, it’s an annual event not to be missed!

Find more businesses on the Carp Road Corridor BIA website and the Carp Village BIA Facebook.