With the warmer weather finally (mostly) here, it’s the perfect time to start planning our summer staycation adventures!
Nova Scotia is full of hidden gems — from coastal hikes and quiet beaches to charming small towns and local food spots — and many are just a short drive from HRM. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing weekend getaway or a fun day trip, there’s no shortage of places to explore close to home.
Stay tuned as we share some of our favourite spots and ideas to help you make the most of summer without leaving the province!
Riverbreeze Farm— Family Farm Fun
RiverBreeze Farm, located at 660 Onslow Road in Upper Onslow, Nova Scotia, is a family-friendly destination offering a variety of seasonal events and attractions. One of their most anticipated events is the Baby Animal Days, typically held in June. During this event, visitors have the opportunity to interact with a variety of baby farm animals, including lambs, goats, bunnies, chicks, and more. The event is designed to provide a fun and educational experience for families, allowing them to learn about farm life and animal care in a hands-on environment.
RiverBreeze Farm is committed to providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors, including families with special needs. The first hour of Baby Animal Days is designated for families with special needs or sensory disorders, ensuring a comfortable environment for all guests.
In addition to Baby Animal Days, RiverBreeze Farm hosts several other seasonal events throughout the year:
- Hell’s 1/2 Acre Truck & Tractor Pull: A high-energy event featuring powerful trucks and tractors competing in various challenges. This event is scheduled for July 12–13, 2024.
- Nova Scotia Flower Festival: Running from August 7 to September 8, 2024, this festival allows visitors to explore fields of sunflowers, zinnias, and cosmos. Guests can enjoy “all-you-can-fill” flower buckets and take advantage of photo opportunities in the vibrant flower fields.
- Daytime Corn Maze: Starting September 21, 2024, RiverBreeze Farm offers a family-friendly corn maze experience on weekends, leading up to Halloween. The maze includes a Farm Scene Investigation game, adding an interactive twist to the adventure.
- Fear Farm: Opening on October 4, 2024, Fear Farm transforms the farm into a haunted attraction with five haunted houses and two haunted mazes, providing a thrilling experience for visitors seeking a scare.
Throughout the year, RiverBreeze Farm also offers additional attractions and activities:
- Build-A-Buddy Barn: An interactive experience where visitors can create their own stuffed animal companions.
- Petting Zoo: Meet a variety of animals, including baby llamas, dwarf goats, pot-bellied pigs, and kangaroos.
- U-Pick Pumpkin Patch: Visitors can pick their own pumpkins during the fall season, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Food and Treats: Enjoy a variety of food options, including meals at the Pumpkin Grill Cafe and sweet treats like RiverBreeze Fudge at The Silo.
For more information on events, ticket purchases, and seasonal offerings, you can visit their official website at riverbreeze.info.
Wentworth Park and Falls — A Hidden Gem in Nova Scotia
Located in the picturesque Wentworth Valley, Wentworth Falls is a stunning natural feature that attracts visitors seeking tranquility and natural beauty. This waterfall is particularly captivating in the spring or after rainfall, as the water cascades dramatically over the rocks, creating a “bridal veil” effect. The shallow pool at the base is perfect for a refreshing wade, making it a family-friendly destination.
To reach Wentworth Falls, take Route 4 north from Truro. Approximately 2 kilometers past a gravel operation at Folly Lake, look for a dirt track on the left, marked by a steel gatepost, just south of the Wentworth Motel. The base of the falls is about 200 meters down this road. The hike is short, taking about 10 minutes, and is suitable for all skill levels. The trail is flat and well-maintained, making it accessible for most visitors.
Wentworth Falls features multiple drops and a unique tunnel at the top where the water flows from. The falls drop approximately 50 feet, creating a beautiful and serene atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy the view from the base or take a short hike to the top for a different perspective.
Please note that swimming and jumping are not permitted at the falls.
To Find a link to google maps Click here.
Wentworth Valley Park — Embrace Nature
While Wentworth Falls offers a natural retreat, Wentworth Valley Park provides a more developed outdoor experience. This park is ideal for picnics, leisurely walks, and enjoying the scenic beauty of the valley. The park features well-maintained trails, picnic areas, and open spaces for relaxation. It’s a great spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts to spend a day immersed in nature. Here’s some tips.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and after rainfall for the most dramatic waterfall views.
What to Bring: Comfortable footwear, water, and a camera to capture the stunning scenery. - Safety: Stay on marked trails and avoid the water’s edge to ensure safety.
- Respect Nature: Leave no trace; pack out all trash and respect wildlife.
Whether you’re seeking a peaceful hike to Wentworth Falls or a relaxing day at Wentworth Valley Park, both destinations offer unique experiences that showcase the natural beauty of Nova Scotia. Remember to check local guidelines and trail conditions before your visit to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Sugar Moon Farm – A Maple Syrup Experience in Nova Scotia
Nestled in the picturesque Cobequid Hills near Earltown, Nova Scotia, Sugar Moon Farm offers a unique blend of culinary delights, outdoor adventures, and traditional maple syrup production. Established in 1996 by Scott and Quita Williams, the farm spans 200 acres and features a 2,500-tap maple syrup operation, a cozy log restaurant, and a network of scenic trails.
Sugar Moon Farm’s log restaurant serves a delectable array of maple-infused dishes, including classics like pancakes with maple syrup, maple mac and cheese with candied bacon, and maple hot chocolate. Brunch is available on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., with options for adults starting at $25 and children’s meals from $9.
The farm is surrounded by over 30 km of wilderness trails, including the 6.2 km Rogart Mountain Trail, ideal for hiking and snowshoeing. In the winter, snowshoe rentals are available on weekends for $20 per adult and $5 for children.
Visitors can purchase a variety of maple products, such as syrup, maple butter, and pancake mix, at the Farm’s shop. The shop is open on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., with farm pick-up available during the week by request.
Sugar Moon Farm is open year-round, with weekend brunch and activities available on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Reservations are recommended, especially during the busy summer season.
For more information and to make reservations, visit sugarmoon.ca.
Partridge Island — Discover the Bay of Fundy
Located across the Bay of Fundy from Cape Blomidon, Partridge Island holds significant historical and ecological importance. Known as “Wa’so’q” (meaning heaven) in Mi’kmaq, the island was traditionally used by the Mi’kmaq for harvesting natural resources and is rich in Kluskap legends.
Ecological Importance
Partridge Island is a haven for wildlife, hosting over 50 species of birds, including the Peregrine Falcon. Its diverse ecosystems support various migratory and breeding birds, making it a significant site for birdwatching.
Visiting Tips
- Accessibility: Partridge Island is accessible via a natural causeway exposed during low tide, allowing visitors to walk across. However, visitors should be cautious of rapidly changing tides.
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early fall offers the best conditions for exploring both the museum and the island.
- What to Bring: Comfortable footwear, water, and a camera to capture the stunning scenery.
- Safety and Respect Nature: Stay on marked trails, Leave no trace; pack out all trash and respect wildlife
The Nova Scotia Nature Trust’s Partridge Island page here.
Ottawa House By-the-Sea-Museum - A Historical Treasure
Situated on the Parrsboro Shore, the Ottawa House By-the-Sea Museum is one of Nova Scotia’s oldest surviving buildings, dating back to the 1780s. Originally constructed in the Georgian style, it has undergone extensive restoration and now serves as a museum and archival center. The museum is owned and operated by the Parrsboro Shore Historical Society and is a member of the Association of Nova Scotia Museums and the Council of Nova Scotia Archives.
The Ottawa House was once the summer residence of Sir Charles Tupper, a Father of Canadian Confederation and the sixth Prime Minister of Canada. He renamed it “Ottawa House” in honor of Nova Scotia’s entry into Confederation. The building has also served various roles, including a hotel, tavern, and ferry station, reflecting the area’s evolving economic and cultural landscape.
For more information, you can visit the Ottawa House By-the-Sea Museum website.
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