+10 Wicked Cool Things to do in Wolfville Nova Scotia
Are you planning a trip to Nova Scotia and looking for fun and picturesque small towns to visit. Add Wolfville to your itinerary! For a small town, there are a bounty of things to do in Wolfville! Whether you’re looking to dig into history, be entertained by the arts, or experience the natural beauty of the province, Wolfville has all of that!
The Annapolis Valley, where Wolfville lies, is home to around a dozen wineries, and known as one of the best wine regions in Canada. Even if wine isn’t your cup of tea, one of the many reasons I fell in the love with Wolfville was its artsy town vibe. There are murals throughout downtown and a nearby live theatre.
It also sits on the edge of the Minas Basin, making it a cool place to experience the highest tides in the world. But there’s so much more, and I’m sharing my top picks for what to do when you go and where to stay. Plus, it’s only an hour north of Halifax!
So, whether you’re looking for a great day trip from Halifax or places to stop on a Nova Scotia road trip, planning a trip to Wolfville will be nothing short of memorable.
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Explore Downtown Wolfville
I always think that the best place to start your visit is a stroll through downtown. And Wolfville, Nova Scotia has all the east coast charm you can expect, with a splash of youthful fun and colour that probably comes from it being a university town, with Acadia University at its heart.
Strolling Main Street, you’ll find a number of places to visit, like tasty restaurants, cool cafes, and unique shops. One of my favourite shops is Valley Girl!
Valley Girl is a shop full of cute and unique treasures. There’s everything from self-care products to jewellery. I loved their unique notebooks and home décor items.
If you need a coffee, you’ll find a few options. Two of my top picks are Just Us and T.A.N. Coffee! Both are local coffee roasters. A bag of their beans is the perfect souvenir in my opinion!
Also, while you’re wandering downtown Wolfville, keep an eye out for all the murals! (more on that below)
Visit Grand Pré National Historic Site
A must-visit to learn more about the significance of the area, is Grand Pré National Historic Site. Only minutes from downtown, the site honors the Acadians who settled here between 1682 and 1755.
It’s part of an UNESCO World Heritage Site, one of 7 in Nova Scotia. You’ll learn more about the Acadians culture, their impact on the land, and sadly their deportation by the British.
The Grand Pré National Historic Site is large and includes a museum that features an exhibit space, art gallery, and theatre. The film you watch in the theatre is a value way to learn more about the people and the site.
After browsing the museum, take a wander around the stunning grounds. You can visit the Memorial Church, with its famous statue of Evangeline out front. There are gardens, an orchard, winding pathways, and a blacksmith shop.
It’s open seasonally May through October. And you can explore on your own, or join a guided tour, which run twice daily during the summer.
Another cool part of the site is that you can book an overnight stay at one of the oTENTiks.
Two Planks & A Passion Theatre
For me one of the most unique things to do in Wolfville in the summer is enjoy live outdoor play! And you can do that at Two Planks & A Passion Theatre.
The theatre is located a short 20-minute drive north of Wolfville and is one of my favourite theatres in Nova Scotia! Typically, the season runs from June through September.
This award-winning theatre is located on scenic farmland at Ross Creek Centre for the Arts. It’s one of the most unique theatre venues in the province, as they offer off the grid experience. Taking place surrounded by forest, the only light is from a central campfire.
I’ve enjoyed two different performances and am blown away by the talent. Not only can they act, but they sing and play instruments.
Insider Tips: Don’t miss the cool art gallery in the main building. And be sure to cover yourself in the bug spray they offer; you’ll thank me later!
Explore Harriet Botanical Gardens
When it comes to free things to do in Wolfville, my favourite is exploring the Harriet Botanical Gardens!
The Harriet Botanical Gardens is part of the Acadia University and is such a gem. Sitting on 6 acres, the gardens offer a scenic and tranquil spot to wander.
With winding pathways, a little waterfall, benches to soak it all in, it felt so magical. The entrance was just as special! It’s located off of University Avenue, just look for an iron archway nearly hidden.
In addition to the gardens is the Conservatory. On a weekend in the middle of summer, I couldn’t believe it but we had it all to ourselves.
Inside are greenhouses full of plants and flowers that are native to the Acadian Forest Region. But don’t pass by the massive granite boulder that sits in the middle of the entrance. It’s part of a water fountain and the boulder is blanketed with ferns.
You’ll also spot a few species at risk inside, like the Thread-leaved Sundew. I love seeing sundew, they are carnivorous plants that eat insects!
Enjoy Wine Tasting at Grand Pré
With nearly a dozen wineries in Wolfville and area, a wine tasting is a must while visiting!
One of my favourite places for a wine tasting in the area is Domaine de Grand Pré. It’s the oldest farm winery in Atlantic Canada, owned and operated by the same family since 1994.
I love their passion for supporting local farmers by using only grapes and fruit grown in Nova Scotia in their award-winning wines. And if you’d like a tasting, they are available on a first come basis, no reservation necessary.
But I recommend you book a vineyard tour! The tour takes you through their stunning property, along grapevines and includes a guided tasting. If you’re looking for my top pick, I love the White Tidal Bay!
In addition to the wine tasting and tour, the Grand Pré Winery also has a lovely restaurant, Le Caveau, and a gorgeous Inn if you’re looking for places to stay.
If you’re looking to do more wine tasting in Wolfville, then consider doing a tour with Magic Winery Bus. They offer a variety of tours that take you to various wineries, including Grand Pré, so you don’t have to worry about driving.
Wander the Waterfront Park
The Waterfront Park should definitely be on your list of places to visit in Wolfville!
Only steps from downtown, the park is home winding trails along the waterfront. You’ll be rewarded with views of the Acadian dykes, the red cliffs of Cape Blomidon and the Minas Basin. It’s a great spot in town to take in the famous tides, which are some of the highest tides in the world!
It’s also a fun spot for a photo-op with the Wolfville sign! Or you can grab a coffee or some food and enjoy a picnic in the gazebo next to shore.
Plus, the park boasts free concerts during the summer months.
Insider Tip: Birders will love the park! I spent about an hour and spotted at least a dozen shore birds.
Eat in an Old Church
If you’re looking for unique places to eat in Wolfville than make a reservation for Church Brewing Company!
This restaurant and brewery are located in a stunning church that screams chillingly cool vibes. With its wood paneled vaulted ceiling, dining here is a must experience.
Originally building over 150 years ago, the church was relocated to its current location downtown in 1885. Sadly, there was a fire in 1913, but it was quickly rebuilt. And in 2019, it opened its doors as the Church Brewing Company.
The menu features all the pub classics like wings and fish & chips (which are amazing!) as well as various bowls and a kid’s menu. I love some of the names, like the Choir Burger and Holy Trinity Pappardelle, that are right on brand. Plus, there’s an attached microbrewery!
Take in Wolfville Murals
As a big fan of street art, I was thrilled to find so many murals in Wolfville!
Strolling through downtown, you’ll find a fair number of murals. Some of them are large and take up the sides of buildings, while others are tucked into corners.
A few of my favourites:
The Tide Flows – I loved the quote, about tides, that fits perfectly for the town as well as the images of water, the train and birds. (on the side of Herbin Jewellers)
Al Whittle Theatre Mural – Another great quote, I Think This is the Beginning of a Beautiful Friendship, from Casablanca. (tucked on the side of the theatre)
Alex Colville Wolfville Gallery – This spot is unique, it features replicas of Alex Colville’s paintings, who called the area home. There’s also interpretive signage to learn more and it’s tagged on Google Maps.
Visit a Lookout
For an incredible view of the Minas Basin, head to the Blomidon Look-Off. It’s a perfect place to stop if you’re heading to the theatre, as it’s nearby.
Also know as the Canning Lookoff, it’s located roughly 20 minutes north of Wolfville. It’s an easy pull off spot and offers sweeping views of the area.
Insider Tip: Grab and ice cream from the shop across the street from the lookout. Enjoy the view with a sweet treat.
More Things to do in Wolfville
Do a Historic Walking Tour – If you want to learn more about Wolfville and see its historic buildings, this historic walking tour is perfect! All 13 are within walking distance and the majority are downtown.
Visit the Farmers Market – The Wolfville Farmers’ Market is another great place to visit and shop. It takes place every Saturday morning and features over 60 vendors, from farms to local artisans.
Where to Stay in Wolfville
I stayed at the Inn at Grand Pré Winery and loved everything about it! It was a short 5-minute drive into downtown, there’s an onsite restaurant, and who can resist the wine.
The Inn is set in the James Crane House that dates to 1828. With incredible renovations, it maintains its historic charm but will all the modern amenities.
There are 6 suites, I stayed in the top floor 2-bedroom suite. It had views all around, a spacious open concept living and dining space, comfortable beds and a luxurious bathroom. Plus, the breakfasts are incredible! You can eat in the main dining room or get it served to your room.
If you’re looking for places within walking distance to downtown, the following are a short 10-minute walk.
Tattingstone Inn – This stunning 1874 home features Victorian décor, a fireplace and lounge to enjoy. Rooms are elegant, with one suite having a fireplace of its own. Plus, you’ll enjoy a cooked breakfast to start your day.
Stella Rose B&B – This charming bed and breakfast offers a full hot breakfast that you can eat in the formal dining room or on the stunning deck draped in vines. Rooms highlights include en-suites, TVs, and one has a whirlpool tub and private balcony.
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So, whether you’re looking for a charming small town to visit in Nova Scotia or a fun day trip from Halifax, Wolfville is the perfect spot to plan a vacation around!
More Ideas for your Nova Scotia Vacation
Best Live Theatres in Nova Scotia: Outside & Indoors
Guide to the Best Things to do in Parrsboro
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