Fine Art, Fall Fun & Flavours in Bear River, a Tidal Village on Stilts!

Plan a perfect fall getaway to Bear River, a tidal village on stilts! Explore the many artisan studios, galleries, and shops that make Bear River an “artist hub” of Nova Scotia. Discover local flavours, visit wineries in one of North America’s oldest wine regions, and sip locally roasted coffee and craft beers. Be astonished as the Bay of Fundy tide transforms the community twice daily, exposing the stilts on which Bear River’s picturesque buildings rest – truly a phenomenon to experience in person!

Visit Colourful Galleries in the Heart of Bear River

Discover how ‘art’ is the ‘heart’ of Bear River. Immerse yourself in eclectic, finely crafted collections of art at vibrant galleries in the community’s downtown.

Featuring artists and craftspeople from across Atlantic and Eastern Canada, Flight of Fancy is a Bear River staple operated by artist Rob Buckland-Nicks who has been welcoming visitors for over 40 years. Offering unique pieces from more than 150 artists such as paintings, carvings, sculptures, pottery, and jewelry, there you’ll also find a large collection of Mi’kmaw art, crafts, and books:

By artists and crafters from Bear River First Nation including moccasins designed by Angie Meuse, ash baskets by Will Meuse, and books by author Theresa Meuse.
By artists and crafters across Mi’kma’ki (the traditional territory of the Mi’kmaq) such as ash baskets by Elder Della Maguire (Glooscap First Nation), paintings and books by Alan Syliboy (Millbrook First Nation), pottery, dream catcher ornaments, and wall hangings by Nancy Oakley (Eskasoni First Nation), dream catchers by Dream Web’s Kelsie Young, beaded ornaments by Sierra Paul, and intricate carvings by Clyde Drew.

Meet Artists on the Artist Trail

Connect with the vibrant artists in Bear River. Many makers invite visitors to their working studios, sharing stories and creative processes as well as opportunities to browse and purchase art on-site.

Working studios are marked with signage throughout the community. Pick up a copy of the Bear River Artists Trail guide from Bear River galleries, studios, and restaurants, or visit the Artist Directory Kiosk (in the parking lot next to Bear River grocery). Be sure to check studio hours before visiting. Check out some of these artists along the trail:

Riverside Pottery Studio & Gallery: Hans and Susanna create whimsical and functional stoneware inspired by beloved animals and surrounding nature.
Turned Timbers: Lifetime arborist Jay creates bowls and works of art from Nova Scotia wood.
Pulp Humour: Cheryl creates one-of-a-kind, whimsical folk-art made with paper mâché and mixed media.

Shop Unique Nova Scotia Treasures and Fun Finds

Shop original, locally crafted gifts on any budget for yourself or someone special at Blue Mind Gallery. This wheelchair-accessible shop features fine art and crafts from more than 70 Nova Scotia artists and makers. Find thoughtfully curated, unique pieces for your home such as driftwood and stone wall hangings, colourful mugs and vases, crocheted baby gifts, whimsical felted sculptures, original works and prints, sterling silver jewelry, and a large collection of children’s books by Atlantic Canadian writers and Mi’kmaw authors.

Nearby Pleasant Street Living offers Nova Scotia-made chocolates, honey and pantry items, local skincare products such as Osha Mae and Pure Salt Scrubs, and lovingly selected home décor including imports and restored or upcycled vintage and antique furnishings.

Savour Local Flavours with Water Views

Relax riverside with delicious, diner-style breakfast and lunch favourites at Myrtle and Rosie’s Café. A visit to Bear River would not be complete without tasting one of their award-winning burgers, a classic hot chicken sandwich on fresh-baked bread, or a decadent homemade dessert.

Craving locally roasted coffee beverages or a light bite? Head to charming Sissiboo Coffee Roaster: Bear River Café and Gallery and delight your senses with house-baked treats and local drinks, surrounded by works of local artists.

Just 10 minutes from Bear River, TacOcaT Taqueria serves up delicious flavours and stunning views of the “Digby Gut,” an inlet connecting the Annapolis Basin to the Bay of Fundy. Try the haddock tacos paired with locally-brewed TacOcaT lager created by Annapolis Brewing Company.

If you’re a craft beer enthusiast, be sure to stop by family-owned and operated Lazy Bear Brewing. Cozy up beside the wood stove with a craft beer flight or around an outdoor fire overlooking the “Digby Gut.” Check their events schedule to time your visit with live music events and wood-fired pizzas from the Lazy Bear food truck!

Visit One of North America’s Oldest Wine Making Regions

Considered one of the first winemaking regions in North America, it is believed that grapevines were first planted in Bear River by French settlers in the early 1600s. Learn how Bear River’s unique microclimate influences wines produced by visiting the area’s two distinctive wineries.

Casa Nova Fine Beverages produces wines, ciders, artisanal jellies, BBQ sauces, and maple syrups. Connect with the owners and hear more about their story on a tour and tasting experience.

Bear River Vineyards crafts 100% estate-grown and bottled wines using a gravity-based system within their historic barn, originally built in 1883. Sip elegant wines made from grape varieties less commonly grown in Nova Scotia while overlooking rolling hills of vines.

Coastal Stays & Unique Accommodations

The area features unique accommodations that maximize natural beauty. Relax and take in sunset views across the Annapolis Basin at Still Point Lodge. Explore the on-site beach, walking trails, viewing platform, and bonfire area. Choose from a variety of cottages and suites – most featuring full kitchens, living areas, BBQs, and decks.

Camp in a cabin along the tidal river at Bear River Millyard Recreation, with impressive wildlife viewing opportunities and a floating dock for those wishing to access the river with their own canoe or kayak.

Bear River is a magical place, off the beaten path and especially enchanting in the autumn. The perfect mix of fine art, fall foliage, and fresh flavours await. Plan your visit now!