Spice up your visit to Nepean with this top 10 list of things to do in the area
City folks will tell you that the ‘burbs are boring and not worth visiting, but Nepean is here to give them a big, delicious dose of humble pie!
During my recent quest to uncover the coolest things to do in the area, would you believe that I stumbled upon local legends and activities that are anything but ordinary?
From indulging in mouth-watering Italian cuisine that rivals any big-city hotspot to galloping through scenic trails on horseback and even getting cozy with friendly farm animals – Nepean has it all.
Ready to dive into some seriously fun activities? You’re in for a wild ride, folks because Nepean is about to show you just how awesome it can be.
1. Play a round of golf at Stonebridge Golf Club
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Website: https://www.stonebridgegc.com/
Address: 68 Hawktree Ridge, Nepean
Contact details: +1 613-692-6093
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 8 PM
Stonebridge Golf Club boasts a well-maintained 18-hole golf course where both members and guests can enjoy a challenging yet rewarding game. And the best part is, you can enjoy this sport in a picturesque setting!
Here’s a tip: make sure to book a tee time before you visit to guarantee your spot and avoid any wait times.
Oh, and if you work up an appetite, there’s also a gorgeous patio dining area on-site that offers stunning views of the entire golf course, adding even more delight to your dining experience.
2. Stay active at Walter Baker Sports Centre
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Directions: https://maps.app.goo.gl/JDDNeGSGpN8SLc9v8
Address: 100 Malvern Dr, Nepean
Contact details: +1 613-580-2788
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 6:30 AM to 9 PM
- Saturday and Sunday – 8 AM to 8 PM
Walter Baker Sports Centre is one of the destinations where Nepean locals go if they’re seeking the thrill of the rinks and opportunities to stay active overall.
Staying active in the area is a breeze, thanks to this spot that’s fully stocked with ellipticals, rowing machines, treadmills, free weights, swimming pools, and more.
I remember pushing myself through an intense workout session here, only to be rewarded with a refreshing dip in the pool – talk about a perfect combo!
3. Experience the great outdoors at Shirleys Bay Park
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Directions: https://maps.app.goo.gl/nmYEPbGzgdygFMweA
Address: Shirley Blvd
Contact details: +1 613-239-5000
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Shirleys Bay Park provides a tranquil outdoor escape where visitors can enjoy a range of activities, from fishing and kayaking to strolling, BBQing, and walking their dogs.
Oh, and if you’re a sunset enthusiast like me (I mean, who isn’t?), you’ll love heading here to catch the sunset. It’s an incredible way to wrap up the day surrounded by nature’s beauty!
4. Discover equestrian excellence at Wesley Clover Parks
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Website: https://www.wesleycloverparks.com/
Address: 401 Corkstown Rd, Nepean
Contact details: +1 613-271-5452
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 9 AM to 5 PMw
- Saturday and Sunday – closed
If you’re looking to gallop into the world of equestrian adventures, Wesley Clover Parks is where you want to be. This place is like heaven for anyone who loves horses or just wants to experience the thrill of riding.
With top-notch facilities and a range of activities from jumping to dressage, it’s no wonder this spot is the go-to for horse enthusiasts in Ottawa.
And if you’re not into riding, there are even a multitude of events to look out for in Wesley Clover Parks that showcase everything from thrilling competitions to fun community gatherings.
5. Purchase the freshest produce at Abby Hill Farms
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Website: https://www.abbyhillfarms.com/
Address: 1490 Bankfield Rd, Kar
Contact details: +1 613-692-6277
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 5:45 PM
In search of the freshest produce in the neighborhood? Abby Hill Farms is the answer to your culinary prayers.
They pride themselves on growing high-quality fruits and vegetables that are picked at their peak. From juicy tomatoes to crisp greens, their selection is always top-notch.
Oh, and they’re quite popular for their corn, so don’t miss out on that one!
Whether you’re planning a summer BBQ or just want to enjoy a taste of local goodness, you’ll want to stop by Abby Hill Farms for the freshest farm-to-table produce.
6. Have a family day at ValleyView Little Animal Farm
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Website: https://valleyviewlittleanimalfarm.com/
Address: 4750 Fallowfield Rd, Nepean
Contact details: +1 613-591-1126
Operating hours:
- Monday – closed
- Tuesday to Sunday – 9:30 AM to 4 PM
If you’re looking for a place where both kids and adults can embrace their inner farm enthusiasts, you should definitely check out Valleyview Little Animal Farm.
Alpacas, zebus, goats, and geese are all just a few steps away, making it a petting zoo paradise.
And if you want a fun tour of the farm, you’d want to hop on The Valleyview Express, but don’t forget to check out Bill’s Old Farm Museum where you can dive into some fascinating agricultural history!
7. Experience Indigenous culture at Mādahòkì Farm
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Website: https://madahoki.ca/
Address: 4420 W Hunt Club Rd
Contact details: +1 613-838-5558
Mādahòkì Farm is where Indigenous culture meets the great outdoors. Here, you’ll find seasonal celebrations like Sīgwan, Tagwàgi, and Pibòn, plus the popular Summer Solstice Indigenous Festival.
With a lively marketplace featuring Indigenous artisans and a growing herd of Ojibwe Spirit Horses, this enticing destination offers a unique and immersive adventure for the entire family that’s definitely worth checking out.
8. Enjoy endless family-friend outdoor activities at The Log Farm
— Media credit: thelogfarm
Website: https://thelogfarm.com/
Address: 670 Cedarview Rd
Contact details: +1 613-292-1219
Operating hours:
- Monday to Wednesday – closed
- Thursday to Sunday – 9 AM to 4 PM
The Log Farm boasts a plethora of exciting activities that the whole family can enjoy.
Interacting with the farm animals is the most popular one out of the bunch because come on – who doesn’t want to hang out with these adorable creatures? You can watch them go about their daily life and even get to feed them!
And that’s not all. You can paint the barn, shop for fresh produce at the Saturday market, enjoy a picnic, and dive into a range of other activities.
For those itching for a bit of adventure, there are also trails to explore and unleash your inner explorer!
9. Treat yourself to a self-care day at The Ten Spot
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Website: https://thetenspot.com/
Address: 3171 Strandherd Dr #205A, Barrhaven
Contact details: +1 613-825-9009
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 10 AM to 8 PM
- Saturday and Sunday – 9 AM to 6 PM
The Ten Spot is Nepean’s go-to beauty bar located in the Barrhaven neighborhood. If you’re overdue for a self-care day, this is definitely the spot to check out.
They offer an array of services including facials, brows and lashes, nails, and more. People often acquire their nail services for a polished and long-lasting finish that keeps them coming back.
I myself enjoy the facial sessions, especially the dermaplaning. After all, there’s only so much that exfoliating at home can do, right?
Sometimes, we have to leave it to the experts!
10. Try out delightful Italian gems at Porto A Casa
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Website: https://portoacasa.ca/
Address: 3500 Fallowfield Rd Unit #2, Nepean
Contact details: +1 613-825-2020
Operating hours:
- Monday – closes
- Tuesday, Wednesday, and Sunday – 4 PM to 8 PM
- Thursday to Saturday – 4 PM to 9 PM
Porto A Casa is a secret Nepean gem, so keep this hush-hush!
For years, this Italian hotspot has been a favorite among locals, with some even traveling from other cities just to get a taste. When they closed for a while, let me tell you – regulars were devastated, and I was right there with them.
Luckily, they’ve reopened and are serving up even more deliciousness than before. Going to Nepean without stopping by Porto A Casa would be like missing the grand finale of your favorite show, so be sure to add this to your itinerary.
Just a heads-up – be sure to book a reservation, as they only seat those with prior bookings.