18 Best Things to Do in Wakefield, Quebec From A Canadian
Looking for things to do in Wakefield, Quebec? I’ve got you covered!
As an Ottawa local, I know that sometimes you just want to get out of the city and into nature. Wakefield is a short drive from Ottawa and makes for a great day trip.
Wakefield has a relaxed bohemian vibe, but there are still plenty of things to do to keep you active and busy.
Whether you want to spend one day in Wakefield or a whole weekend, you will have a great time! Here are the absolute best things to do in Wakefield, Quebec.
1. Wakefield Covered Bridge
The Wakefield Covered Bridge is probably the most famous icon of Wakefield.
The bridge was built in 1915 and spans the Gatineau River. Arsonists burned it down in 1984, but the locals raised money to save it, and now it has been fully restored to its former glory.
The Wakefield Covered Bridge is now used for pedestrians, so you can enjoy walking through it and reading the informational signs about its history.
It’s also a great spot in Wakefield for photo opportunities!
2. Fairbairn House Heritage Centre
Close to Wakefield bridge, you’ll find the Fairbairn House Heritage Centre.
This old family homestead dates back to 1861. Today it features a tourist office, exhibitions on local heritage, guided tours, a heritage log cabin, and a heritage barn.
This is a great spot to stop and get a feel for Wakefield’s history.
3. Wakefield Farmers Market
If you are spending the weekend in Wakefield, Quebec, then make sure to attend the weekly farmers market.
The market takes place in the summer, every Saturday from 9am -1pm, from the 3rd week of June until the 3rd week of October.
The market is a great place to sample Wakefield’s local produce and get a feel for life in the town.
4. Éco-Odyssée
Eco-odyssee is a 6km (3.7 miles) water maze in Wakefield and is one of the most fun and unique things to do in Wakefield.
You can choose to rent a canoe, paddleboard, or pedal boat to navigate your way through the maze.
Relax and spot wildlife as you make your way through the waterway’s 60 different intersections.
5. Gatineau Park
Gatineau Park is a short 16-minute drive from Wakefield. It is the region’s largest green space and occupies more than 361 square kilometers.
There are plenty of options for outdoor activities in the park, and it has a ton of different hiking trails to explore. There are several bike trails to enjoy in the warm months, and you can go snowshoeing or skiing in the winter.
6. Great Canadian Bungee
Just south of Wakefield, you will find Canada’s highest bungee jump!
If you are a thrill seeker, you can get your adrenaline pumping by taking a 61-meter (200ft) leap into a quarry. There is also a zipline that is super fun for those not quite ready to bungee.
7. Kayak and Canoe in the Gatineau River
Spending time on the Gatineau River is a must-do when visiting Wakefield. There’s nothing more relaxing than spending an afternoon peacefully paddling down the river, surrounded by gorgeous views.
Head to Expeditions Wakefield to rent a canoe, paddleboard, or kayak. If you are not interested in getting in the water, you can rent a bike to cycle alongside the river.
🛶 Check out the best places to kayak near Ottawa
8. Vorlage Ski Area
Vorlage is a popular ski resort in Wakefield. You can book ski lessons here or if you are already a seasoned skier, you can rent some gear and hit the slopes right away!
The mountain is well suited to beginners, and you can tell that the staff at the Vorlage Ski Area are excellent teachers for those who need a lesson.
9. Patinage en Forêt
Close to Gatineau Park, you’ll find Patinage en Foret. A 3km (1.8 miles) winter skating trail that lets you skate through the heart of the forest. This is one of the coolest and best things to do in Wakefield in winter.
Skating among the pine trees is definitely a different experience from skating indoors on an ice rink.
Services available at Patinage en Foret include skate and snowshoe rentals, skate sharpening, a warming chalet and a snack bar.
10. Khewa Native Art Boutique and Gallery
Make sure you stop by this adorable Indigenous art gallery and boutique located on Wakefield’s riverside road.
Here you will find handcrafted jewelry, unique pieces of art, and fashion accessories. This is the perfect place to grab a souvenir from your time in Wakefield!
Khewa also runs cultural workshops and events such as storytelling sessions.
11. Wakefield Confectionary
This family-run business has provided Wakefield with sweet treats since the 1980s when it made jams and preserves.
Nowadays, Wakefield confectionary makes its own chocolates, fudge, maple products, sponge toffee, jams, jellies, and more. It’s the perfect place to stock up on delicious treats during your trip.
Be sure to try the tasty homemade fudge!
12. Boutique Jamboree
Another great place to grab a souvenir is Boutique Jamboree. This is a great little store to poke around in.
They have plenty of cute and unique gifts. You’ll be able to find kitchenware, candles, and lots of other trinkets to take home with you.
13. The Blacksheep Inn/Le Mouton Noir
The Blacksheep Inn is known for the best live music in Wakefield. It hosts several live music shows each week.
It’s the perfect place for both travelers and locals to unwind and let off some steam after a long day of exploring Wakefield.
The Blacksheep also serves food and drinks if you arrive hungry.
14. Kaffe 1870
This pub overlooks the river and has some of the most friendly and welcoming staff in all of Wakefield.
Kaffe 1870 hosts frequent live performances from local musicians as well as a bring-your-own-instrument open mic night every Wednesday from 9pm.
Their kitchen serves up some tasty dishes, including pizza, nachos, and gumbo. They also have a great selection of beers, including some you don’t usually find in Ottawa.
Restaurants in Wakefield Quebec
Wakefield has so many great places to eat. You will be spoilt for choice!
Here are a few of my favorites.
15. Patisserie La Toque
This lovely cafe has gorgeous views over the river and is the perfect place to stop and enjoy a coffee and something delicious to eat. I hear that the salted-caramel macaroons are fantastic.
There is typically a line outside every Sunday morning as this is when they sell their freshly baked sticky buns. Only 18 are made each week, so get there early to get your hands on one!
16. Wakefield Bakery
Wakefield bakery makes excellent baked goods from scratch, with lots of butter, cream, and fresh fruit.
The breakfast sandwiches are delicious, and some say that the freshly baked donuts are the absolute best! My roommate always goes for the sausage rolls here!
They also offer gluten-free options and fresh coffee too.
17. Nikosi Bistro-Pub
This bistro/pub is a nice little restaurant with an outdoor patio. The food is great, and I recommend you try the Nikosi poutine.
They do a great Sunday brunch and can also provide vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.
18. Le Hibou
This popular restaurant is super cozy and has a quirky and eclectic vibe.
The outside patio is a lovely spot to enjoy dinner with a view of the river, but it does get crowded in the summer.
The food is tasty, and there are plenty of choices. The staff are excellent and will make you feel welcome.
This is a popular place, so be prepared to wait for a table or call ahead for a reservation.
Wakefield Quebec Hotels
There are some excellent places to stay in Wakefield. Here are my top picks.
Wakefield Mill Hotel and Spa
The Wakefield Mill Hotel and Spa is located on the outskirts of the village on the edge of Gatineau Park.
This grand hotel built in 1838 as a flour mill powered by the rushing waters of MacLaren Falls. Today it offers guests a luxurious stay in picturesque surroundings.
The onsite spa offers massages and other spa treatments. It boasts two outdoor hot tubs and a swimming pool.
The onsite restaurant and bar is highly rated, and there is a cozy fireplace in the lounge, where you can relax with a book after a long day of enjoying all Wakefield has to offer.
🍁Check prices for this hotel here!
Le Trois Erables
This beautiful boutique inn offers a shared kitchen, a concierge service, and free WiFi.
The victorian era property is charming and beautifully decorated. The owners are incredibly warm and friendly people who will help you maximize your time in Wakefield.
The inn also provides free bikes, perfect for getting around Wakefield during your stay.
🍁Check prices for this hotel here!
La Grange Country Inn
You will love this beautiful rustic property surrounded by nature. The owners, Chris and Jessica, are fantastic and will make you feel so welcome.
La Grange Country Inn is clean and cozy, offering free WiFi and an incredible breakfast each morning.
There is also a cozy lounge area that includes a wood fireplace, board games, and a book exchange.
🍁Check prices for this hotel here!
How to get to Wakefield Quebec
Wakefield is located in the Outaouais region of Quebec and is easily accessible from Ottawa by both car and public transport.
How to get to Wakefield from Ottawa by car
Wakefield is only 35km (approx 22 miles) from downtown Ottawa. Driving from Ottawa to Wakefield is very easy and should take around 30 minutes.
Simply take King Edward Avenue or Sussex Drive to the Macdonald-Cartier Bridge, then follow Highway 5 north. Take exit 28 and follow the signs to Wakefield.
✅ Click here to get their best car rental deals in Ottawa
How to get to Wakefield from Ottawa by bus
There are eight buses a day that will take you to Wakefield from downtown Ottawa. You must take routes 921, 923, 924, or 925.
Take a look at the transcollines bus website for up-to-date schedules and fares.
How to get to Wakefield from Ottawa by bike
If you are feeling fit and fancy an adventure, you can cycle to Wakefield from Ottawa.
The ride can be challenging as there are some hills, but luckily, the roads you will be cycling on don’t get too busy with traffic.
FAQs About Wakefield, Quebec
What is Wakefield, Quebec famous for?
Wakefield, Quebec, is famous for its covered bridge, which spans the Gatineau River and dates back to 1915. The bridge was restored after being burned down by arsonists in the 1980s, and today it is one of the main attractions in Wakefield.
Is Wakefield Quebec English speaking?
Wakefield is predominantly English speaking, despite being located in Quebec.
You will find that some businesses in Wakefield have both English and French names, but overall, English is the most widely used language.
How far is Ottawa from Wakefield, Quebec?
Ottawa is 35.2km (around 22 miles) from Wakefield, Quebec, and it takes approximately 30 mins to drive from Ottawa to Wakefield.
What is the population of Wakefield Quebec?
Wakefield, Quebec, is a small town with a population of around 2700 people.
Wrap Up
There are so many epic things to do in Wakefield, Quebec.
From hiking in Gatineau Park to paddling through the Eco-Odyssee water maze, walking through the famous covered bridge, learning to ski, or exploring the boutique shops and eateries. There is so much to do in Wakefield, no matter what season.
Wakefield makes for an incredible getaway from Ottawa, and with some excellent places to stay, such as the Wakefield Mill Hotel and Spa, you’ll find yourself wanting to spend a few days here.
Looking for more places to explore outside of Ottawa? Check out these epic day trips from Ottawa!
If you’re planning to visit Ottawa soon:
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- 35 Best Restaurants in Ottawa Ontario From a Local (2023)
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- 33 Best Brunch Spots in Ottawa by Neighbourhood (2023 Local’s Guide)
- Best Places to See Tulips in Ottawa at the Canadian Tulip Festival (2023)
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Read More Amazing Day Trips From Ottawa
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- Ultimate Guide To Wakefield Quebec: From A Canadian
- 25 Day Trips From Ottawa (Within a 2 Hour Drive)
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Ottawa Travel Planning Guide
🚑 Should I buy Ottawa travel insurance?
100% YES! — There’s a misconception that Canada has “free healthcare” for everyone. Nope! Only Canadians. So you’ll need to get travel insurance to visit Ottawa. I recommend this one.
💧Can you drink the tap water in Ottawa?
Yes – ish — While you can technically drink the tap water in Ottawa, as a local I don’t recommend it. Old hotels especially can have some nasty things in their pipes. Instead, get a filtered water bottle. (Read more)
🚙💨 Do I need to rent a car in Ottawa?
Yes — Renting a car in Ottawa is one of the best ways to get around! You’ll be able to see more of the city and beyond, like the epic hiking trails. I recommend Discover Cars for the cheapest rates possible.
📲 Do I need to know French in Ottawa?
Nope! — The primary language of Ottawa is English. While French is also spoken and on some signs, you can easily get by without knowing any French. (Read more)
🏩 What’s the best way to book my Ottawa accommodations?
For Ottawa hotels, Booking is the best site. If you’re considering an Ottawa Airbnb, don’t forget to also check VRBO, which is often cheaper than Airbnb. My #1 hotel recommendation in Ottawa is the Fairmont Chateau Laurier.
✈️ What’s the best site to buy Ottawa flights?
For finding cheap Ottawa flights, I recommend Skyscanner. You can even set a price alert to find out when flights are on sale.
🎫 Do I need a Visa for Ottawa?
Likely Not — U.S. and most European Passport holders don’t need a Visa to visit Canada.
📍 Where is Ottawa? And what’s nearby?
Ottawa is the capital city of Canada, located in Ontario. It’s right on the border of Quebec. It’s about 2 hours from Mont Tremblant, 3 hours from Montreal, or 5 hours from Toronto. You can take a road trip to get to other places or fly.
