Visiting Guide for Ottawa’s Pumpkin Patches and Apple Orchards during the Fall Season
If there’s one thing that I love to do during Ottawa’s fall season, it’s visiting its many nearby pumpkin patches and apple orchids. You see, I love cooking, and this season provides so many opportunities for amazing dishes.
Apples and pumpkins in particular are key ingredients for plenty of dishes. You have soups, tarts, pies, and the list just goes on.
Besides the cooking, being able to handpick these fruits and veggies is simply an amazing experience, one that you should also try for yourself.
So, here are some of the best pumpkin patches and apple orchards that you can visit. I’ll also be showing you how you can best prepare for your trip.
Pumpkin Patches in Ottawa
Ottawa has a few pumpkin patches within the city’s premises, but there are also quite a few of them that you can reach via a quick drive. Here are some of the best locations you can visit during the fall season.
Saunders Farm
Address: 7893 Bleeks Rd A, Ottawa, ON K0A 3P0, Canada
Contact number: +1 613-838-5440
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.saundersfarm.com/
Operating hours:
- Friday: 6:00–11:00 PM
- Saturday:
- 10:00 AM–1:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Saunders Farm is hands down one of the best places to visit during the fall in Ottawa, especially if you’re on the hunt for the perfect pumpkin patch experience.
From the moment you step onto their property, you’ll be greeted by the vibrant colors of autumn foliage, the crisp scent of leaves underfoot, and the unmistakable feeling of fall in the air. It’s like walking into a postcard.
Now, let’s talk pumpkins. Saunders Farm boasts one of the most extensive pumpkin patches in the Ottawa area.
Whether you’re searching for the ideal carving squash, a quirky gourd for decoration, or just a charming piece for a photo op, you’re sure to find it here.
The sheer variety of shapes, sizes, and colors will blow your mind. It’s like a pumpkin wonderland!
But it’s not just about pumpkins. Saunders Farm goes above and beyond to provide a full-fledged fall experience for the whole family.
It has a corn maze that will challenge your navigation skills and provide plenty of laughs along the way. Don’t forget to check out its spooky Haunted Hayride, which is not for the faint of heart but perfect for those seeking some Halloween thrills.
What truly sets Saunders Farm apart, in my personal opinion, is the sense of community and fun you’ll find here. It’s the kind of place where families gather to create lasting memories.
The farm has a wide range of activities for kids, including a playground, live entertainment, and even a puppet show. And for adults, there’s nothing quite like sipping on a warm cup of apple cider while enjoying the serene beauty of the location.
Maple Hill Urban Farm
Address: 200 Moodie Dr, Ottawa, ON K2H 8K6, Canada
Contact number: +1 613-828-2987
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://maplehillurbanfarm.com/
Operating hours:
- Monday-Thursday: 8:00 AM–7:00 PM
- Friday: 8:00 AM–9:00 PM
- Saturday: 8:00 AM–9:00 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM–4:30 PM
While Maple Hill Urban Farm is not your typical sprawling plantation in the countryside, it offers a unique and intimate pumpkin-picking experience right in the heart of Ottawa.
This proximity makes it incredibly convenient for city dwellers like myself who may not have the time to venture out to more rural locations.
Maple Hill Urban Farm takes its gourds very seriously.
Despite its smaller size compared to larger rural farms, it has managed to create a diverse selection of pumpkins, from classic carving varieties to specialty squash that come in various shapes and colors.
You’ll definitely find the perfect pumpkin for your fall decorating needs.
What makes Maple Hill even more special is its commitment to sustainability and organic farming practices. It prioritizes environmentally friendly methods, which not only means healthier pumpkins but also a cleaner, more sustainable city environment.
Another highlight of Maple Hill Urban Farm is its attention to detail when it comes to creating a cozy, fall atmosphere.
You’ll find hay bales, cornstalks, and other seasonal decorations that make it feel like a rustic autumn wonderland. It’s a fantastic spot for family photos, and I’ve created some cherished memories here with my loved ones.
And let’s not forget the welcoming and friendly atmosphere fostered by the folks at Maple Hill.
They are passionate about their work and are always ready to offer a warm smile, share pumpkin-picking tips, and maybe even regale you with a fun farm story or two.
Kiwan Farms
Address: 3485 Hawthorne Rd, Ottawa, ON K1G 3N4, Canada
Contact number: +1 613-890-8307
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://kiwanfarms.ca/
Operating hours:
- Monday-Sunday: 10:00 AM–6:00 PM
Kiwan Farms has become a beloved tradition for many Ottawans, and for good reason.
The farm’s picturesque setting, nestled in the countryside just outside the city, provides a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life. It’s a place where you can truly immerse yourself in the beauty of the season.
When it comes to gourds, Kiwan Farms offers a bounty of options. From the classic orange carving pumpkins to unique heirloom varieties, you’ll be spoiled for choice.
During the fall, I love wandering through the pumpkin fields with my friends and relatives, searching for that one squash that seems to call out to me. There’s something oddly satisfying about it, like finding a hidden treasure.
One of the standout features of Kiwan Farms is its commitment to the farm experience. It offers a wide range of activities for visitors of all ages.
For families, the pumpkin patch is just the beginning. The farm has a corn maze that’s both challenging and fun, providing hours of entertainment.
And if you have little ones, they’ll adore the petting zoo and tractor rides. It’s an ideal place to make lasting memories with your loved ones.
There’s a warm and welcoming atmosphere here, and you’ll often find locals chatting with each other while sipping on hot apple cider or enjoying fresh-baked treats.
To add to that, the farm’s staff are very friendly and helpful, and they’re always eager to share their knowledge about pumpkins, farming, and the local area.
Abby Hill Farms
Address: 1490 Bankfield Rd, Kars, ON K0A 2E0, Canada
Contact number: +1 613-692-6277
Website: https://www.abbyhillfarms.com/
Operating hours:
- Monday-Sunday: 9:00 AM–5:45 PM
Abby Hill Farms offers an idyllic rural setting that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a storybook autumn scene.
Located just a short drive from the city, it’s a serene oasis surrounded by picturesque countryside. The moment you arrive, the breathtaking views of rolling hills and vibrant fall foliage greet you, creating the perfect backdrop for your pumpkin-picking adventure.
Abby Hill Farms boasts an impressive selection of pumpkins and gourds. You are pretty much guaranteed to find the right squash for you.
I always find myself getting lost in the sea of pumpkins, each one with its own unique character and charm.
Abby Hill Farms is dedicated to creating an immersive fall experience.
For families, there are hayrides through the pumpkin patch, a challenging corn maze that promises loads of fun, and a petting zoo that delights kids of all ages. It’s the kind of place where you can spend an entire day just having fun with the people you love.
What I personally appreciate about Abby Hill Farms is the sense of authenticity and warmth that permeates the entire experience.
The staff here are not just employees; they’re passionate about their work and eager to share their knowledge about farming, pumpkins, and the local area.
You’ll often find them offering friendly advice on which pumpkins are best for carving, baking, or decorating.
And let’s not forget the cozy atmosphere that prevails at Abby Hill Farms during the fall season. It’s the perfect spot to sip on hot apple cider, indulge in freshly baked goods, and bask in the rustic charm of the farm’s surroundings.
There’s a genuine sense of community here, and you’ll often see families and friends gathering to celebrate the season.
Log Cabin Orchard
Address: 6121 Cabin Rd, Osgoode, ON K0A 2W0, Canada
Contact number: +1 613-826-5081
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.logcabinorchard.ca/
Operating hours:
- Monday-Friday: 10:00 AM–5:00 PM
- Saturday-Sunday: 9:00 AM–6:00 PM
The setting of Log Cabin Orchard is simply breathtaking. It is surrounded by rolling hills and orchards bursting with fruit, the farm exudes the rustic charm of a bygone era.
The drive there is already a scenic adventure on its own, and once you arrive, you’re greeted with the warm, welcoming atmosphere that defines this place.
When it comes to pumpkins, Log Cabin Orchard delivers in spades. Its pumpkin patch is a sea of orange and green, showcasing an impressive variety of sizes and shapes.
Personally, I love wandering through the rows of pumpkins, each one seemingly more charming than the last.
Families will find plenty to do here, from pumpkin picking to exploring the charming apple orchards. It has a petting zoo that kids adore and tractor rides that are as enjoyable for adults as they are for the little ones.
The staff are passionate about their farm and eager to share their knowledge. They offer friendly advice on everything from pumpkin selection to apple-picking techniques, making you feel like a part of their extended family.
Apple Orchards in Ottawa
Although Ottawa doesn’t have any apple orchards located within the city’s vicinity, there are plenty of nearby places that are a short drive away that you can visit. Here are some of the locations that you can go to.
Orleans Fruit Farm
Address: 1399 St Joseph Blvd, Orléans, ON K1C 7K9, Canada
Contact number: +1 613-830-1303
Website: http://www.fermedorleans.com/
Operating hours:
- Tuesday-Friday: 10:00 AM–5:30 PM
- Saturday-Sunday: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Nestled in the picturesque countryside, just a short drive from the heart of Ottawa, Orleans Fruit Farm offers a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
When you arrive, you’ll be greeted by the sight of rows upon rows of apple trees, laden with ripe, juicy apples. It’s a sight that captures the essence of autumn.
Speaking of apples, the variety at Orleans Fruit Farm is astounding. Whether you’re in search of sweet, crisp treats for snacking, tart ones for baking, or unique heirloom varieties to expand your culinary horizons, you’ll find them here.
Personally, I enjoy strolling through the orchard, plucking apples straight from the trees. There’s something incredibly satisfying about picking your own fruit.
Orleans offers a genuine farm experience. Families will delight in apple picking, which is a fun activity for kids and adults alike.
The farm’s staff are always ready with helpful tips on which apples are at their peak, ensuring you leave with the best of the harvest.
I consider a visit to this lovely place to be a sensory delight. The scent of ripe fruit fills the air, and the sight of families enjoying themselves under the orchard’s canopy is heartwarming.
It has picnic areas where you can savor your freshly picked apples, and its homemade apple cider is an absolute must-try.
It’s a place where locals come together to celebrate the season, and you’ll often find friendly conversations about the best apple pie recipes or cider-making techniques.
The farm’s commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices is also something I deeply appreciate, as it shows its dedication to preserving the land for future generations.
Pinewood Orchard
Address: 101 Herzberg Rd, Kanata, ON K2K 2Y3, Canada
Contact details: [email protected]
Website: https://www.pinewoodorchards.com/
Operating hours:
- Monday-Friday: 10:00 AM–5:00 PM
- Saturday-Sunday: 9:00 PM–5:00 PM
Pinewood Orchard offers a rural escape without the need for an extensive journey.
Upon your arrival, you’ll be welcomed by the sight of apple-laden trees and the inviting aroma of ripe apples in the air. It’s a place where you can truly embrace the tranquility of the season.
For its apples, the farm offers some of the freshest fruit I’ve ever tasted. They are perfect for just about anything, such as snacks, pies, and other decadent dishes.
Besides the apples, I’m quite sure that everyone, especially families will appreciate the simplicity and authenticity of apple picking. There’s a certain joy in wandering through the plantation, basket in hand, and selecting the ripest fruit from the trees.
Then you have the staff at Pinewood Orchard, a bunch of cool and friendly folks who are always ready to assist. Being able to converse with them as you pick the right apples makes the experience both enjoyable and informative.
For me personally, visiting Pinewood Orchard feels like stepping back in time.
It’s a place where you can escape the hustle and bustle of modern life and embrace the slower pace of a simpler time back when machines didn’t exist. You get the feeling that you are a farmer harvesting your hard-earned crops with your hands and tools.
Once you’re done picking your apples, you have a picnic area waiting for you to rest, relax, and savor the fruits of your labor.
As you take a breather from the picking, you really feel the sense of community at Pinewood Orchard. You can find locals and staff members and start conversations with them about any topic that comes to mind.
No matter how you look at it, Pinewood is a place where locals come together to celebrate the harvest season and you’ll often find friendly exchanges about the best recipes or apple-themed crafts.
AppleStock Orchard
Address: 3485 Hawthorne Rd, Ottawa, ON K1G 3N4, Canada
Contact number: +1 613-774-0594
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://applestockorchard.com/
Operating hours:
- Monday-Sunday: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
At Applestock, each tree carries its own personality.
Some branches may hang low, heavy with the weight of ripe fruit, making it easy to pluck the apples directly from the boughs. Others might require a bit of a stretch and a gentle twist to release their treasures.
The orchard is thoughtfully maintained, ensuring that apple picking is an accessible and enjoyable activity for all. Ladders and picking tools are readily available for those who want to reach the apples nestled higher in the trees.
This attention to detail allows visitors of all ages to partake in the joy of gathering their own fruit.
The sensation of holding a freshly picked apple in your hand is truly something special. It is cool to the touch, and its skin is smooth and polished.
Its natural beauty is a testament to the care and dedication that goes into the orchard’s maintenance.
As you inspect each apple, you’ll marvel at the myriad of colors, from deep reds to golden yellows. Then, you’ll notice that each one seems to carry the essence of the season within.
Children often delight in the process, their faces lighting up as they carefully select the most perfect apples to add to their baskets.
It’s a wonderful opportunity for them to connect with nature, learn about where their food comes from, and develop an appreciation for the harvest.
Log Cabin Apple Orchard
Address: 1490 Bankfield Rd, Kars, ON K0A 2E0, Canada
Contact number: +1 613-692-6277
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.logcabinorchard.ca/
Operating hours:
- Monday-Friday: 10:00 AM–5:00 PM
- Saturday-Sunday: 9:00 AM–6:00 PM
Besides being a great pumpkin patch, Log Cabin also offers an exquisite apple orchard. Picking some fruit at this location is a fun, hands-on activity that really captures the spirit of fall.
Log Cabin Orchard’s apple trees are set up in a way that makes it easy for people of all ages to enjoy. Whether you’ve done this activity before or this is your first time, the rows of trees are pleasing to look at with their fruit being quite easy to reach.
In terms of apples, it’s quite pleasing to see the wide variety that you can find, each with its own taste and uses in cooking.
This makes sure that there is a specific one for every palate and need. There are a lot of sweet apples that you can eat as a healthy snack and plenty of tart variations that will make your baked goods taste better.
Finally, Log Cabin Orchard’s apple picking is also a great way for families to make memories that will last forever. Letting the kids pick their own apples proves to be a lot of fun, and they also get to learn how this food item grows.
To add to that, this is also a chance for you to teach your kids to value nature and how important it is to support local farmers.
Mountain Orchards
Address: 6121 Cabin Rd, Osgoode, ON K0A 2W0, Canada
Contact number: +1-613-989-5601
Website: https://mountainorchards.ca/contact/
Operating hours:
- Monday-Friday: 10:00 AM–6:00 PM
- Saturday-Sunday: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
The apple-picking adventure at Mountain Orchards is without a doubt exciting.
The orchard is meticulously maintained, ensuring that apple picking is an accessible and enjoyable activity for all visitors. This well-organized site gives it a welcoming aura, enticing both experienced and novice participants to get the freshest fruit.
As with any good garden, Mountain Orchards features a pretty diverse selection of apples. You can find ones that are perfect for cooking and some that make for good snacks.
Another stand-out feature of Mountain Orchards is the immersive nature of the apple-picking experience. As you stroll through the orchard, you’ll feel a tangible connection to the land and the season.
The sensation of plucking apples directly from the tree is both tactile and satisfying, offering a hands-on appreciation for the harvest.
Tips for the Best Visiting Experience
Proper preparation can spell the difference between a good picking experience and a great one. I highly recommend that you follow the tips that I’ve listed below to ensure that you make the most out of your visit to these pumpkin patches and apple orchards.
Check the Weather
Ottawa’s autumn weather can be unpredictable, so dress in layers and be prepared for cooler temperatures. Don’t forget comfortable walking shoes, as orchards and patches can be muddy.
Plan Ahead
Before heading out, check the orchard or pumpkin patch’s website or social media for its hours of operation, admission fees, and any special events or activities it may have.
Some places may require reservations, so it’s wise to book ahead, especially on weekends.
Arrive Early
If you’re looking for the best selection of apples or pumpkins, try to arrive early in the day. This is when you’ll have the pick of the crop before the crowds arrive.
Bring Containers
Most orchards will provide bags or baskets for apple picking, but bringing your own containers or bags can make it easier to transport your bounty home.
Enjoy the Atmosphere
Take your time while exploring. Stroll through the orchards, enjoy the peaceful rural surroundings, and savor the scent of fresh apples and pumpkins in the air.
It’s not just about the harvest; it’s about the experience.
Sample the Local Treats
Many orchards have on-site farm stands or cafes where you can enjoy fresh cider, apple pie, and other seasonal treats. Indulge in these delights; they’re often made from the orchard’s own produce.
Respect the Environment
Be mindful of the orchard or patch’s rules, including where and how you can pick fruit or pumpkins. Leave no trace, and dispose of trash properly.
Bring Cash
While some places may accept credit cards, it’s a good idea to have cash on hand, especially for small purchases or admission fees.
Capture Memories
Don’t forget your camera or smartphone. The stunning fall scenery makes for excellent photo opportunities, whether you’re snapping shots of pumpkins and apples, or your family enjoying the day.
Explore Nearby
Consider making a day of it by exploring other nearby attractions or towns. Ottawa’s countryside offers beautiful drives, charming villages, and additional opportunities for fall fun.