When autumn arrives in Canada’s capital, it brings the seasonal ritual of pumpkin patches, corn mazes, hayrides and apple picking. Whether you’re starting a new family tradition or searching for that Instagram-worthy photoshoot with friends, here are a few local pumpkin patches and apple orchards that will give you just the fall feels you’ve been waiting for.
Proulx Maple & Berry Farm
Before gearing up for maple season, the Proulx Maple & Berry Farm, located just 30 minutes east of downtown Ottawa, is transformed into Pumpkin Fest – complete with a Halloween playground, haunted houses and hay ride through the “Mysterious Forest”. Every weekend from September 22 to October 31, 2019, you can choose your prize jack-o-lantern from one of the many pyramids and walls of pumpkins around the farm.
Ferme l'Artisan Farm
Located east of Ottawa in the rural area of Prescott-Russell, Ferme l'Artisan Farm meets all your u-pick needs with both an orchard and a patch. Grab a bag and load up on 8 varieties of apples before trekking through pumpkin paradise with more than 15 varieties to choose from. Pick-your-own available.
Saunders Farm
Known for its Haunting Season, fall is prime time at Saunders Farm. September 21 until October 31, 2019, you can experience the farm by day for hayrides and puppet shows or wait until the sun goes down for all kinds of spooky surprises. This 100-acre farm also boasts the largest collection of full-sized hedge mazes in North America and can be found just 30 minutes west of downtown Ottawa! Don’t forget to grab a pumpkin on your way out!
Ouimet Farms Adventure
Put yourself to the test at the Ouimet Farms Adventure’s annual giant Haunted Corn Maze. Located in Vankleek Hill, an hour’s drive east from Ottawa’s downtown core, this farm is hard to miss with its brightly-painted Popsilo graphic mural of the “Farm Boy”. Large jumping pillows, zip-lining, farmers’ market and pumpkin patch are sure to keep the family busy.
Cannamore Orchard
Looking for something a little off the beaten track? How about a cow-train ride. Cannamore Orchard, about a 40-minute drive outside of Ottawa, offers up more than just apples and will have you running from the petting zoo to the no-left-turn maze all day long. Don’t forget the Acres of Terror running for the month of October. Pick-your-own available.
Log Cabin Orchard
Searching for the perfect pumpkin? You’re sure to find one in the Log Cabin Orchard’s one-acre pick your own pumpkin patch. If you go for the apples, you’ll stay for the assortment of delicious baked goods, apple cider and their specialty churros (fried apple cider sticks) at the log cabin café! This orchard is about 35-minutes south of Ottawa’s downtown core. Pick-your-own available.
Love fall flavours? Check out our suggestions for the Best Fall Treats in Ottawa!
