Just a 30-minute drive west of downtown Ottawa, the village of Carp offers a blend of small-town warmth, an idyllic countryside landscape, and one of Canada’s most fascinating historic destinations: the Diefenbunker Museum. Welcome to your perfectly curated day trip to Carp, with the Diefenbunker serving as the ideal anchor to explore the area.
Getting there
While Carp is not accessible by public transit, the Diefenbunker has introduced an exciting option: a free seasonal shuttle service linking it with the Canadian War Museum in Ottawa. Operating Wednesday through Sunday from July 10 to September 21, 2025, this shuttle is the perfect way to get to the Diefenbunker and to explore Carp. If you choose to drive, the Diefenbunker also offers free and accessible parking on site.
Descend 75 feet underground
Start your day at the Diefenbunker, a massive four-story underground bunker built in the 1960s to protect Canadian government officials in the event of a nuclear attack. Enter through the Blast Doors tucked into the hillside, and head down to discover what’s beneath the surface.
Built at the height of the Cold War and designed for the continuity of government, it has since been repurposed. Today, it’s an award-winning museum and national historic site, with preserved rooms, original equipment, and immersive exhibitions that bring history to life.
It’s up to you to choose your mode — go off on your own or book a guided tour. If you prefer to explore on your own, the museum has a free audio guide. And if a guided tour interests you, the museum guides bring the bunker to life in a fun and engaging way! The Diefenbunker spans four sprawling underground levels, 75-feet deep, filled with artifacts, recreated rooms, and interactive exhibitions that capture the tensions of the Cold War era. Some notable areas include the Blast Tunnel, the War Cabinet Room, the Prime Minister’s Suite, and the massive Bank of Canada Vault that would have held the country’s gold reserves.
Pro tip: Book your tickets online in advance to secure your entry — guided tours and general admission can fill up quickly!
Refuel in the village
After your descent underground, come back up to the surface and stroll through the Village of Carp. Just a short walk or drive from the Diefenbunker, the village boasts a selection of local eateries perfect for lunch or a light snack. Grab a sandwich, homemade soup, or a baked treat at Alice’s Village Café, a local favourite known for its welcoming vibe and fresh, seasonal menu. And if you’re up for a sweet treat, the Carp Custom Creamery really does the trick.
If you’re visiting on a Saturday morning between May and October, don’t miss the Carp Farmers’ Market — one of the largest in Eastern Ontario. Sample local honey, artisan cheese, fresh produce, and handcrafted goods from friendly vendors under the open sky.
If you feel like taking your lunch to go, you can bring it back to the Diefenbunker and eat while enjoying the breeze at our outdoor picnic tables or the benches on top of the hill.
Walk off your lunch with a stroll along the Interpretative Trail at the museum. You can enjoy a scenic tour of the bunker hillside while learning about the facilities that keep it running. The trail also provides a great view overlooking the Carp River and nearby farmland.
Nature walks and country vibes
After lunch, take some time to enjoy Carp’s peaceful natural surroundings. Drive a few minutes north to Carp Ridge for a short hike with beautiful views of the Ottawa Valley. If you’re in the mood for something even more laid-back, Carp Hills offers scenic gravel roads and birdwatching spots — perfect for nature lovers looking to unplug for an hour or two.
The Carp Heritage Walk created by the Huntley Community Association is the perfect way to explore the area. It offers an accessible map to explore twenty-five points of interest in Carp village across three zones; the Downtown Historic District, Carp Hills Natural History, and the Diefenbunker and Carp River Valley.
Optional stop: Local sips
If you’d like to end your day with a toast and dinner, swing by Ridge Rock Brewing Company, right in the heart of the village. This local craft brewery offers a cozy indoor taproom and sunny patio and a rotating list of creative, small-batch brews. Just up the road from the Diefenbunker is KIN Vineyards, a 47-acre family-owned and operated vineyard, serving exceptional wines homegrown in the Ottawa Valley. Cheers to a day well spent!
Evening escape
If you’re up for more adventure, head back to the Diefenbunker in the evening to take on the world‘s largest escape room. Challenge yourself and your family, friends, or colleagues in one of two themed experiences with Escape Manor — one takes place over an entire floor (that’s 25,000 square feet) of this massive underground bunker, and the other in top-secret areas closed off to museum visitors. Can you Escape the Diefenbunker before the clock runs out?
Whether you arrive by car or take advantage of the Diefenbunker’s new shuttle service, a day trip to Carp is a perfect combination of history, relaxation, and small-town charm. The shuttle makes it even easier to connect two of Ottawa’s most intriguing historic attractions — the Canadian War Museum and the Diefenbunker — in one seamless trip. From fascinating Cold War history to fresh local flavours and scenic outdoor escapes, Carp offers an unforgettable day just beyond the city limits. It may be small, but it is full of stories, from Cold War secrets buried deep underground to the vibrant community spirit above.
Plan your visit. Pack your curiosity. And prepare to be surprised by all that Carp has to offer.