If you’re looking for a quick getaway from Ottawa, the picturesque village of Wakefield is just 25 minutes from downtown Ottawa. You’ll come across some unique and colourful shops and restaurants that you’ll want to explore. It’s a nice spot to escape without going far at all. Here are the best things to do in Wakefield:
Things To Do In Wakefield: Enjoy the Great Outdoors
Walk the Historic Wakefield Covered Bridge
This bridge is an icon in Wakefield. It was built in 1915 and was the first bridge to link the two shores of the Gatineau River. The bridge burned down in a fire in 1984, but the community raised money to restore it in 1998. Today it’s a pedestrian-only bridge. You can learn about the history through plaques inside the bridge.
Below the bridge, you’ll find some rocks that are perfect for camping out for the day and swimming. This is one of my favourite thing to do in Wakefield.
Walk Along the Old Train Track in Wakefield
One of Wakefield’s most charming features is the historic train track cutting right through the heart of the village. Back when I was a kid, an old steam train still chugged along these rails, and I was lucky enough to experience it on a family outing. Today, the tracks serve as a beautiful, active-use path for walking and biking alongside the river.
Hit the Water in the Village
In the Village of Wakefield, you can rent a kayak, canoe or paddleboard from Expeditions Wakefield. There are also multiple docks and water access points for bringing your own device. They’re also a great spot to lounge and swim if you’re looking for a chill day by the water.
Paddle Through a Water Maze
Located in Wakefield, explore this unique water maze and see how much wildlife you can spot. There are more than 60 intersections spread out over 6km. I loved navigating the maze and taking in this amazing view at the same time! I chose the canoe option but they also have paddle boats available. Choose from over 30 Eco-Odyssee adventures.
Lazy Ride Down the River
Enjoy a lazy ride on the river. Soak up some sun and relax while taking in some great views. This activity will take a few hours so make sure to budget lots of time.
*Always be safe and wear a life jacket. I don’t recommend this activity if you aren’t a strong swimmer. You will be going over currents. Read tips on water safety from Ottawa Public Health here. Always be respectful of the area while visiting
Here’s what to bring with you for this adventure:
- Life jackets, Tubes, and rope. You can tie all the tubes together and float down the river as a pack with your friends. Some people get a giant group tube.
- A dry bag full of snacks, sunscreen, and water. Make sure to be respectful and bring all garbage with you.
- Bonus: we had mini paddles with us to speed the journey up
You’ll need two cars for this adventure. One parked where you start and another parked where you end.
You can enter the water at Chemin River but there is no parking allowed here. You’ll need to park your car somewhere else and walk over.
The current will take you past the main bridge and to the main street of Wakefield. You’ll want your car parked somewhere along here. We had one person go get the car and the rest of us stayed with the tubes. There’s a dock near the main street that you can get out of the water.
You can also break up the route:
- Chemin River to the Red Bridge: get off here if you don’t want to go over the bumpy current.
- Red Bridge to the main street of Wakefield: you’ll go over some bumpy currents and then the ride smooths out. This was the shortest part of the journey. If you choose this option you’ll need to park somewhere near the Red Bridge. Make sure you’re parked somewhere that parking is allowed.
Hit the Slopes in the Winter
If you’re a skier or snowboarder, hit the slopes at Edelweiss in the winter in Wakefield. They have 20 trails ranging from easy to difficult. You can get to this mountain in 30 minutes from downtown Ottawa.
Wakefield Arts Scene
One of the first things you’ll notice when you arrive is that Wakefield has a massive, beautiful artsy soul. It’s been a magnet for painters, sculptors, musicians, and writers for decades, and that creative energy is everywhere. From live music at the restaurants to the gorgeous galleries lining the main street, the village comes alive every autumn for the famous Chelsea-Wakefield Studio Tour, where local artists open up their private home studios so you can peek behind the scenes and chat with them firsthand. There’s also a huge performing arts community here, with Theatre Wakefield putting on community productions and storytelling festivals throughout the year. It gives the whole town this incredibly open, eccentric, and welcoming vibe that makes just walking down the street feel inspiring.
If you’re a big music fan, you might already know that Wakefield is home to the legendary Black Sheep Inn. Huge Canadian acts like Arcade Fire and Feist played here in their early days, and it is officially open again for cozy weekend concerts and local indie gigs!
Best Restaurants and Coffee Shops in Wakefield
You’ll find lots of cute restaurants, many with a beautiful view of the water. Here are some highlights:
Le Hibou
Head to Le Hibou for a bite and enjoy a view of the water at the same time. If you can sit on their patio for a view of the water. If it’s packed, the inside is nice and cozy with bright colours and an eclectic look. They have a diverse menu so you’re sure to find something to catch your eye. I’ve enjoyed their mussels and fish and chips. Head here for lunch, dinner or brunch on the weekend.
Bluebarn Coffee Roasters
Get coffee in Wakefield at Bluebarn Coffee Roasters. It was started by a group of close friends and family who actually built a bright blue barn to house their roaster, and they are so passionate about what they do. They roast their own ethically sourced beans, and you can really taste the difference. Their café on Chemin de la Vallée is super cozy and the perfect spot to grab a creamy latte, a warm treat, and a bag of fresh beans to bring home with you.
Nikosi Bistro Pub
You’ll find Nikosi right beside Expeditions Wakefield. Grab a bite on their patio. I loved their nachos, nice and crispy. They have some unique items like their Nikosi mac n cheese or Nikosi poutine. You can also head here for brunch on Sundays.
The Village House
Take in a view of the water while you enjoying their menu including short ribs, deep fried eggplant and more. Head here for brunch, lunch or dinner. To keep the creative juices flowing they offer a small plates menu on Sundays from 12pm-8pm.
Juniper Farm
Juniper Farm has been around since 2006 and there is plenty you can do here. They have an on-site cafe where you can enjoy a hearty, wholesome meal made with ingredients from their farm. Enjoy your meal while overlooking the farm. They also have animals on-site like their donkeys.
Walk around the farm and enjoy self-guided tours. Visit their store for organic veggies, meat, eggs, coffee, tea, granola, cheese and more. You can also get food boxes from the farm through a CSA (Community Shared Agriculture) with pickup locations in Ottawa, Gatineau, Chelsea, Cantley or on-site at the Farm. Juniper Farm also partners with some great restaurants in the capital like Feast and Revel, Whalesbone and more.
Seasonal Tip: If you’re visiting in the summer, don’t miss their gorgeous sunflower maze. Planning a fall trip? Stop by to pick-your-own pumpkins!
Things To Do In Wakefield: Explore All The Shops
Beyond the charming exterior, Wakefield has lots of wonderful shops to pop into. Here are a few highlights:
Khewa
Opened by Métis-Mi’kmaq artist Nathalie Coutou, Khewa is dedicated to celebrating and supporting Indigenous, Métis, and Inuit artists. When you step inside, you’ll find the most beautiful collection of authentic, ethically sourced goods—everything from hand-painted art and sterling silver jewelry to cozy clothing and home decor.
Boutique Jamboree
At Boutique Jamboree, step inside to find a curated collection of unique home goods. It’s the perfect place to pick up artisanal candles, stylish kitchenware, local art prints, and cozy decor.
Wakefield Confectionery
The Wakefield Confectionary has been around since 2003. They offer plenty of gourmet products. You’ll find everything from preserves, fudge, chocolate, candies, fine foods and more. You’ll feel like a kid again when you step into this shop.
Wakefield Bakery
Wakefield Bakery has been baking everything completely from scratch since 1908, so it’s a total local institution. The smell inside is amazing, and it’s the perfect spot to grab a coffee, a breakfast sandwich on their house-made buns, or a couple of their famous cheese sticks to munch on while you walk by the river.
Wakefield Farmers Market
You can visit the Wakefield Farmers Market every Saturday from 9am-1pm from the 3rd week of June until the 3rd week of October. You’ll find it at 38 Chemin de la Vallée de Wakefield. Enjoy everything from fresh produce, baked goods, books, maple goodies, wine and more.
Local History in Wakefield
Get Fresh Water at the Spring
Get free water from the spring in Wakefield. The spring is dedicated to La Peche councillor Lorne Shouldice, who acted to save the spring when it was about to be buried by road construction in 1986. Take route 105 towards, turn right onto Chemin Valley and you’ll find the spring immediately on your right.
Fairbairn House Heritage Centre
Located right near the covered bridge, Fairbairn House originally belonged to William Fairbairn, who immigrated to Wakefield from Scotland in 1834. Today, the beautifully preserved homestead showcases the rich history of the Gatineau Valley. Inside, you’ll find a helpful tourist office, historical exhibitions, guided tours, a heritage log cabin, an authentic barn, and direct access to surrounding walking trails.
Things To Do in Wakefield: Have a Staycation
Wakefield Mill Hotel and Spa
Make it a staycation at the Wakefield Mill Hotel and Spa. Nestled right beside a cascading waterfall surrounded by forest, this historic retreat is designed for pure relaxation.
Originally built as a flour mill in 1838, it has been meticulously transformed into a gorgeous four-star country boutique hotel. You can indulge in luxury spa treatments, spend your evening soaking in an outdoor hot tub overlooking the river, or swim under the stars in their outdoor pool.
Guests and visitors can also book a reservation at their restaurant, La Muse. Their upscale table d’hôte menu is packed with delicious, inventive dishes highlighting regional French-Canadian flavours.
Find more Outaouais Ideas here.
Julia started Little Miss Ottawa as a way to explore her hometown as a traveller would. She’s always planning her next adventure, whether it’s local or abroad. You’ll find her exploring with her camera in hand. She hopes Little Miss Ottawa helps bring you on new and fun adventures. Happy exploring :)
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