Best Things To Do In Carp

One of the first things I noticed about Carp was how friendly everyone was. It’s small but the locals do a great job of hosting events and making a tight-knit community and supporting local. I was very excited to showcase this area of Ottawa on the blog because this is where I grew up. We moved from Kanata to Carp when I was in grade 8. It’s a great spot to escape for the day with so many wonderful things to enjoy. Here are the best things to do in Carp from a local:

Brunch at Alice’s Cafe

This is one of my favourite brunches in the city. You’ll find this restaurant in the heart of downtown Carp. From brunch all the way through to dinner it’s a great spot for a bite. I either get a breakfast item or one of their sandwiches with chips. They have great coffee or I get their London fog with Sloane tea.  You can also bring your dog and sit out on the patio. Afterward, treat them at Carp Custom Creamery.

Cheshire Cat

If you’re looking for things to do in Carp, make sure you have dinner at the Cheshire Cat. This spot is extremely popular with Carp locals and always busy, but trust me, there is plenty of room inside! It’s a British pub inside an old schoolhouse. As you walk up to the restaurant you’ll see a classic British telephone booth outside. My favourite menu item is the veggie burger but everything is so delicious from their yorkshire pudding, fish n chips, stuffed jalapenos and more. This is where I celebrated my highschool graduation and have been many times since.

Diefenbunker

The Diefenbunker Museum is Canada’s Cold War Museum. It was created as an emergency escape during the Cold War in case there were nuclear attacks on Canada. The museum houses artifacts, a library and more form the Cold War. It’s interesting to walk through and see how things would have been. The tunnel at the beginning has been the setting for quite a few movies. The Diefenbunker also turns into an escape room with  You can also participate in ‘escape the Diefenbunker‘ run by Escape Manor. See if you can make it out before the time runs out.

Carp Custom Creamery

Grab a cone at Carp Custom Creamery across from the fairgrounds. Their ice cream is produced daily in-house and includes local ingredients. Their daily selection includes 16 different flavours and over 40 flavours available for their 1L take-home tubs. They also have gluten-free and vegan options available. They also have puppy cones for your furry friend, a small soft serve cone with a dog treat.

Kin Vineyard

Did you know Ottawa has a winery? Kin Vineyard celebrated their one year anniversary this summer. How fun that you can experience a winery right here in the capital! They offer 4 distinct tiers of wine as well as a cider. Try the wine for yourself at their tasting room, open Tuesday-Sunday 11:00am-6pm. Check their website becasue they often host fun events.

Carp Farmers Market

Head to the Carp Farmer’s Market every Saturday from 8am-1pm. Its the largest producer-based Farmers’ Market in Eastern Ontario. You’ll find a great array of vendors offering everything from fresh herbs, fresh produce, food vendors, sauces, jewellery, and more.  Have a dog? This farmers market is also dog-friendly! We brought Dana who made quite a few friends throughout the morning! You need to try the stroopwaffles from Leah’s Bakery. Perfect with your morning coffee. I also love how many international vendors there are at the market from kimchi, thai food, Brazilian/Lebanese food, there are lots of great finds.

Ridge Rock Brewing Company

Enjoy a brew and a bite on the patio of this local brewery.

Play a Round of Golf

Play a round of golf at Irish Hills or Greensmere. Afterward, unwind at one of the local restaurants above!

Carp Fair

This fair is a big deal! In high school, we basically got the Friday off because teachers knew more than half the class would be gone to Carp Fair. It’s described as “the best little fair in Canada.” Whether you’re going with your friends or family you’re sure to have a great time. You can expect lots of rides, horse shows, markets, food trucks and more! If you’re looking for things to do in Carp then this is definitely worth marking on your calendar in September

Drive-In Bingo

All ages come to participate in this summer favourite. Park your car, grab a seat and let the games begin. Bingo takes place at the Caro Fairgrounds and starts with a BBQ at 6 pm. Bingo starts at 7 pm and is $10.00 for a full sheet and $5.00 for a single sheet. Make sure to check here for event dates because bingo only takes place in the summer.