11 Reasons to Visit Wolfville, Nova Scotia
Published February 25th, 2025
Photographs and video by Jay Kana unless otherwise noted.
Driving a mere hour north of Halifax, Nova Scotia brings you to the quaint town of Wolfville. Perfectly placed in the Annapolis Valley, Wolfville has plenty to offer from wineries and cider producers, farm markets, quaint attractions and more.
When you discover Nova Scotia, set aside a day or few to explore this terrific town.
If you’re looking for things to do in Wolfville, we’ve got 11 great starting points for you!
Wolfville Farmers’ Market
Serving the community since 1992, their motto is “where local abundance nourishes and community thrives.”
They’re open year-round every Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., complete with over 60 vendors from artists, to food and drink, farmers and more.
As you wander their 9,000 square foot apple warehouse they’ve used since 2010, enjoy live music and soak in the unmistakable buzz as you browse.
They’ve embraced the digital world by offering an online market. Items are selected and then delivered to three community hubs; Kings County, West Hants, Halifax Regional Municipality.
The Church Brewing Company
Housed in a stone church built between 1914, this modernized church is a place for all to congregate over fabulous food and wonderful beer. Bought in 2017 and with final renovations completed in 2019, the Wolfville community embraced this new attraction and today, it’s one of the most popular places in town. They’re staunch supporters of local businesses and currently offer nine beer selections.
Snap some shots while you’re there as the decor is delightful. When you go, try the fried chicken sandwich and chicken wings!
Annapolis Cider Company
This award-winning cider house both brews and serves under the same roof. Inside, the front portion is a retail location and traverse to the rear for tastings.
Founded in 2016, they’ve earned the distinction of being one of Canada’s best premium cider brands. They’ve partnered with local fruit growers and their popularity sees over 50,000 annual visitors for samples, purchases and cellar tours.
Their famous Earl Blue includes Earl Grey tea and Nova Scotia blueberry juice for a unique, splendid offering.
A Trio of Farm Markets
On Main Street within a small 450 meter span is where you’ll find a trio of Farm Markets
Elderkin’s is first up as you head west and they feature self-brewed cider, a “U-Pick” style for various fruits and a from-scratch bakery.
Next up is the award-winning Stirling’s Farm Market, open since 1917. They’ve got a wide variety of apples, fruits, vegetables, baked goods and more for visitors and locals.
Hennigar’s Farm Market completes the trifecta with fresh produce, baked goods, flowers and more. I finished a box of their famous maple-dipped apple cider donuts…I should’ve bought another box.
Lightfoot and Wolfville Vineyards
This Annapolis Valley destination winery specializes in small-lot wines, offerings wine varieties from Tidal Bay, riesling, Chardonnay, pinot noir, plus ciders and more.
The tasting room sets the mood for a memorable experience, led by staff experts.
The open-concept dining space is spacious with a level of privacy at each table. The wine pairings are explained in approachable detail, the cuisine is exquisite and this upscale vineyard produces an unmatched experience.
Benjamin Bridge Vineyard
This shining gem in the Annapolis Valley’s Gaspereau Valley (yep; a valley in a valley!) is dubbed as “Nova Scotia’s Sparking Wine House.” With nearly 30 years of serving the community and beyond, their wine offerings, tasting rooms and on-site experiences are best paired with you.
Their famous Nova 7 is a must-try, as is their Nova Zero and Piquette non-alcoholic offerings.
Grand Pré Winery
The Tasting Bar at the Domaine de Grand Pré offers a warm and welcoming vibe, with wooden barrels aplenty, strand lights and glass enclosures for some of their wines. They’ve earned dozens of awards and offerings include Tidal Bay, sparkling wines, chardonnay, ciders, pinot noir and more.
Food selections include the delicious, especially for cheese lovers, raclette.
Maritime Express Cider Company
This very cool converted railway hotel houses their restaurant, retail store and production space. The upbeat, approachable vibe at brunch added to its allure.
With clever names for their ciders, including Conductor Cranberry, Porter’s Perfection, Train Hopper, Wandering Rails and others, it couples the community heritage with the modern ciders.
Food portions are respectable, the quality is excellent and I fully endorse the fried chicken sandwich.
Planters Ridge Winery & The Stay at Planters Ridge Winery
Housed in a modernized barn that’s been there since the 1860’s, this Port Williams winery offers panoramic views of the area from their tasting room and a cozy fireplace to sip your wine by. This state-of-the-art winery produces Tidal Bay, riesling, Chardonnay, sparkling and dessert wines.
The Stay at Planters Ridge is their accommodation arm, which is on-site in a quaint house divided into three upstairs rooms and a dining area on the main level.
The rooms themselves are cozy and welcoming, and the views are plentiful.
Grand Pré National Historic Site
Experience a guided tour, learn about Acadian history, walk or bike a portion of the 110 km trail. There’s a Victorian garden, a Memorial Church, displays and exhibits to enjoy as well.
Stroll the Streets
Walk along Main Street for a true Canadian small-town with big-charm experience. There’s a self-guided Historic Walking Tour - here’s the map!
Take your time as you meander the area to appreciate the town and remember to get a few pictures of the new Wolfville sign at the Waterfront Park.
With Wolfville being so close to Halifax and with so much to do, it should be on your list of things to discover in Nova Scotia.