Your Perfect One-Day Escape in Bridgewater, Nova Scotia

A local guide curated by Empire Riverside Stay

Whether you’re coming to Bridgewater for an errand, a business trip, visiting family, or a short work assignment, you deserve at least one day to slow down, breathe in the salty Atlantic air, and explore the beautiful surroundings that make the South Shore so special.

Bridgewater is more than a service hub — it’s the “Main Street of the South Shore”, filled with riverside trails, artisans, bakeries, beaches, and some hidden gems locals absolutely love. And the best part? Many of these experiences begin just steps from your suite at Empire Riverside Stay.

Here’s your perfect 1-day itinerary — simple, scenic, and refreshingly Nova Scotian.

Morning: Riverfront Walks & Cozy Breakfast

Start at Empire Riverside Stay — Your Riverside Home Base

Wake up in your cozy suite inside a beautifully preserved 1911 heritage home and step outside to the gentle flow of the LaHave River. From our front door, you’re only:

• 2 minutes from the River Pub (amazing river views)
• A short stroll to Shipyards Landing, where Bridgewater Boat Tours & kayak rentals depart
• Steps to the riverfront trail system that leads to some of Bridgewater’s most peaceful views

This unbeatable walkability is one of the reasons visitors call Empire Riverside Stay “the perfect home base” for exploring the South Shore.

Breakfast at Fancy Pants Café

Just a short walk from your suite is one of Bridgewater’s cutest, most beloved cafés: Fancy Pants Café.

Grab:
☕ A handcrafted latte
🥐 A warm breakfast sandwich or fresh pastry
✨ A seat by the window to ease into your day

Fun fact: Fancy Pants was created by a local culinary couple who wanted to bring big-city café culture to Bridgewater — and they nailed it.

Mid-Morning: Explore the LaHave River & Riverside Parks

After breakfast, wander down to the river. Bridgewater’s waterfront is surprisingly expansive, connecting several scenic spots along the Pijinuiskaq River (the Mi’kmaw name for the LaHave).

Walk to Pijinuiskaq Park

This riverside park features seating areas, boardwalks, and wide-open views of boats, cormorants, and the gentle tidal water.

“Did you know?”

The LaHave River is tidal all the way up to Bridgewater — meaning the water rises and falls twice a day, even though you’re not directly on the ocean!

Late Morning: Bike or Walk the Centennial Trail

Just minutes from Empire Riverside Stay, the Centennial Trail invites you into the woods. This quiet 8 km multi-use trail makes you feel like you’ve escaped the town—even though you’re only minutes away.

Expect:
🌲 Tall trees and shaded paths
🦆 Occasional wildlife sightings
🚲 Easy terrain (suitable for strollers, bikes, or gentle walks)

This is the perfect “unplug and unwind” moment in your day.

 
Lunch & Culture: DesBrisay Museum + Woodland Gardens (or Carding Mill Museum)

After a relaxing riverside morning, it’s time to add a bit of local culture to your day.

Option 1: DesBrisay Museum & Woodland Gardens

Just minutes from Empire Riverside Stay, the DesBrisay Museum offers a fun, easy way to learn about Bridgewater’s story — from Mi’kmaw heritage to early shipbuilding and community history. Inside, you’ll find:

• Mi’kmaw cultural displays
• Local artifacts & historical exhibits
• Beautiful folk art and rotating showcases

Outside, take a stroll through the woodland gardens, explore the duck pond, or enjoy a picnic under the trees. It’s peaceful, kid-friendly, and a perfect midday reset.

 
Option 2: Carding Mill Museum in Wileville

If you prefer a stop that feels like stepping back in time, head to the Carding Mill Museum, a short scenic drive from Bridgewater’s town centre.

This charming historic site showcases:
• A restored 19th-century carding mill
• Traditional wool-processing equipment
• Costumed interpreters (seasonal)
• Stories of local farming communities and craftsmanship

Guests love the authenticity — the creek, the waterwheel, and the rustic setting make it feel like a little slice of Nova Scotia’s past preserved in the modern day. It’s especially delightful for families, history fans, or anyone who appreciates rural heritage.

Afternoon: LaHave Ferry, Bakery Stop & Rissers Beach

Drive the LaHave Loop
From town, follow Highway 331 along the river — a scenic drive locals adore.

Take the LaHave Ferry
This short ride is a simple joy. Kids love it, adults love it, and photographers really love it.

LaHave Bakery
Once across the river, stop at the iconic LaHave Bakery for coffee, fresh bread, or a second dessert (no judgment here — everyone does it).

Fun fact: This historic bakery is housed in a former shipbuilding facility dating back more than a century.

Beach Time: Rissers Beach Provincial Park

After the bakery, continue to Rissers Beach, one of the South Shore’s most loved beaches — a 20-25 minute seaside drive.

At Rissers, you’ll enjoy:
🏖️ A long, soft sandy beach
🌾 A beautiful boardwalk over the salt marsh
📸 Sunset-worthy photo opportunities
🌊 Gentle Atlantic waves

This is where many visitors say,

“I can’t believe this is only minutes from Bridgewater.”

Evening: Dinner on King Street (Steps from Your Stay)

Return to town and freshen up at Empire Riverside Stay.

Then walk to:

• River Pub
Sit on the deck overlooking the river — one of the best dinner views around.

• King Street Beer Company
Grab a local craft beer and enjoy the community vibe. There’s often music, events, or patio hangouts in warmer months.

“Did you know?”
King Street is recognized as one of the most walkable commercial strips in the South Shore — and Empire Riverside Stay sits right at the edge of it.

Final Thoughts: Make Empire Riverside Stay Your Base for the South Shore

Bridgewater is the gateway to the South Shore — and Empire Riverside Stay places you right at the heart of it:

✨ Steps from the river
✨ Steps from boat tours, kayak rentals & riverfront trails
✨ Walking distance to cafés, pubs, museums, and shops
✨ 25 minutes to beaches, bakeries, and coastal villages

Whether you're here for a quick trip or a longer stay, take a day to explore the magic around you. There’s so much more to Bridgewater than meets the eye — and your adventure starts right at your doorstep.