Living in Borden Farm and Fisher Heights in Ottawa Canada
Living in Borden Farm and Fisher Heights in Ottawa Canada: Looking to live in a neighbourhood that offers quite streets, mature trees, large lots and accessibility? Look no further than Borden Farm and Fisher Heights – where peaceful suburban streets meet vibrant community vibes, all within a stone’s throw of downtown Ottawa.
Today, we’re exploring the Borden Farm and Fisher Heights neighbourhoods, nestled in the heart of Ottawa’s west end. Known for their lush greenery and convenient location, these neighbourhoods offer a perfect blend of suburban serenity and urban amenities. Whether you’re planning a move or just curious about these dynamic areas, stay tuned as we uncover what makes Borden Farm and Fisher Heights fantastic places to live.
History and Location
Borden Farm and Fisher Heights have rich histories that reflect the growth and development of Ottawa. Borden Farm, originally a working farm, began its transformation into a residential area in the 1960s. It retains its name to honor the area’s agricultural roots. Fisher Heights, named after the Fisher family who owned much of the land in the area, developed around the same time, growing into a vibrant suburban community.
Located approximately 10 kilometers southwest of downtown Ottawa, these neighbourhoods are strategically positioned near major arteries like Merivale Road, Baseline Road, and Fisher Avenue. This prime location provides easy access to the city center, making it a popular choice for commuters. Additionally, the neighbourhoods are close to key amenities such as shopping centers, schools, and parks, offering residents the best of both suburban and urban living.
Education
Elementary Schools: Borden Farm and Fisher Heights boast several excellent elementary schools, ensuring families have ample options for their children’s education. Notable schools include:
- Meadowlands Public School: Known for its strong academic programs and inclusive environment, this school offers a nurturing atmosphere for students. Meadowlands also provides a variety of extracurricular activities, including sports teams, music programs, and after-school clubs that encourage student engagement and development.
- St. Rita Catholic School: A Catholic elementary school that emphasizes academic excellence and character development. The school is well-regarded for its dedicated staff and supportive community. St. Rita offers various programs that foster a well-rounded education, including religious studies, community service projects, and arts programs.
Secondary Schools: Borden Farm and Fisher Heights provide strong secondary education options including:
- Merivale High School: The main secondary school in the area, known for its diverse academic programs and wide range of extracurricular activities. The school offers advanced placement courses, various sports teams, and clubs that cater to a broad array of interests. Students also have opportunities to engage in community service and leadership activities. Merivale High School prides itself on preparing students for post-secondary education and future careers through its comprehensive curriculum and support services.
- St. Pius X High School: A Catholic secondary school offering a balanced education with a focus on both academics and faith-based learning. The school provides a supportive environment where students can thrive academically and personally. St. Pius X offers a variety of programs, including advanced placement courses, vocational training, and numerous extracurricular activities such as drama, music, and athletics.
Parks and Nature Trails
Borden Farm and Fisher Heights are havens for nature lovers, with numerous parks and trails that highlight the area’s natural beauty.
Parks:
- Fisher Heights Park: A central park in the neighbourhood featuring sports fields, playgrounds, and walking paths. It’s a popular spot for community events and family outings. The park includes facilities for soccer, baseball, and tennis, as well as picnic areas and a splash pad for children. Fisher Heights Park also hosts community events such as outdoor movie nights, summer festivals, and local sports tournaments, making it a lively gathering place for residents.
- Nepean Creek Trail: is a scenic pathway that winds through Ottawa’s southwest end. Stretching over several kilometers, the trail features well-maintained paths that follow alongside Nepean Creek. The trail is popular for walking, jogging, and cycling, providing a peaceful setting that invites visitors to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty just minutes away from the urban hustle.
- Steve MacLean Park: Part of Ottawa’s extensive park system, this area provides vast green spaces for walking, biking, and picnicking. It’s a perfect spot for those who enjoy outdoor activities and appreciate nature. Steve MacLean Park offers a network of trails that connect to other parts of the city, providing opportunities for long-distance cycling, hiking, and wildlife observation.
Nature Trails:
- Experimental Farm Pathway: A scenic trail that follows the Central Experimental Farm, offering a peaceful setting for walking, biking, and jogging. The pathway connects to other trails in the city, making it a convenient route for outdoor enthusiasts. Along the Experimental Farm Pathway, you’ll find benches and rest areas where you can take in the beautiful surroundings and observe local wildlife, such as birds and small mammals.
- Rideau Trail: Located nearby, this extensive trail network runs through several neighbourhoods, including Borden Farm and Fisher Heights. It’s perfect for hiking, cycling, and cross-country skiing in the winter. The Rideau Trail provides a serene escape from urban life, allowing residents to immerse themselves in nature. The trail is well-marked and maintained, offering varying levels of difficulty to accommodate all ages and fitness levels.
- Arboretum Trails: Located at the Central Experimental Farm, these trails offer beautiful views of the Arboretum’s diverse plant collections. It’s an ideal spot for nature walks and photography. The Arboretum Trails feature educational plaques about the different tree species and plantings, making it a great place for learning and exploring nature.
Amenities
Borden Farm and Fisher Heights’ amenities blend historical charm with modern convenience, making them highly desirable places to live.
Shopping and Dining:
- Merivale Mall: Known for its variety of shops, restaurants, and services. You can find everything from grocery stores and pharmacies to specialty shops and boutiques. The mall offers a convenient shopping experience for residents. Highlights include local favorites such as the Merivale Fish Market, which offers fresh seafood, and the Merivale Bakery, where you can find freshly baked goods and artisanal products.
- Casa Mexico: Casa Mexico on Merivale Road is a vibrant restaurant known for its authentic Mexican cuisine and warm, inviting atmosphere. This local gem offers a diverse menu featuring traditional dishes like tacos, enchiladas, and tamales. The colorful décor, live music and friendly service create a festive dining experience, making Casa Mexico one of my favourites!
- Gyubee Japanese Grill on Merivale Road is a popular destination for lovers of Japanese BBQ. This stylish and modern restaurant offers an interactive dining experience where guests can grill a variety of premium meats, seafood, and vegetables right at their table.
Recreation:
- Borden Farm Community Centre: Offers a range of recreational activities, including tennis courts, a baseball diamond, and a children’s play area. The park is a hub for local sports and outdoor fun. Borden Farm Community Centre also features a community hall that hosts fitness classes, art workshops, and seasonal events such as summer camps and holiday celebrations.
- Fisher Heights Community Centre: A focal point for community activities, featuring a gymnasium, fitness classes, and various programs for all ages. The center hosts events, workshops, and activities that bring residents together. Fisher Heights Community Centre also offers rental spaces for private events and meetings, making it a versatile venue for community gatherings.
- Nepean Sportsplex: Located nearby, this extensive sports complex offers swimming pools, ice rinks, a fitness center, and sports fields. It’s a great resource for those looking to stay active and participate in community sports. The Nepean Sportsplex hosts a wide range of activities, including swimming lessons, public skating sessions, and competitive sports leagues for all ages.
Healthcare: Borden Farm and Fisher Heights provide excellent healthcare facilities to meet the needs of their residents.
- Queensway Carleton Hospital: Located a short drive away, this hospital offers comprehensive medical services, including emergency care, inpatient services, and various outpatient clinics. The hospital is known for its compassionate care and state-of-the-art facilities. Queensway Carleton Hospital also provides specialized services such as cardiology, orthopedics, and maternity care, ensuring comprehensive healthcare for the community.
- Central Park Medical Clinic: Provides primary care services, including family medicine, mental health support, and specialist consultations. The clinic offers convenient hours and walk-in services, making healthcare accessible for all residents.
- Local Pharmacies: Several pharmacies in the area offer convenient access to prescriptions and health consultations. Pharmacies like Shoppers Drug Mart and Rexall provide essential health services and advice. These pharmacies also offer additional services such as flu shots, health screenings, and personalized medication management.
Community Events and Festivals: Borden Farm and Fisher Heights are known for their vibrant community events and festivals that bring residents together and celebrate local culture.
- Canada Day Celebrations: Borden Farm and Fisher Heights host lively Canada Day events with fireworks, live music, and family-friendly activities. It’s a great way to celebrate the national holiday with neighbors and friends. The festivities typically include a parade, outdoor concerts, and food trucks, creating a festive atmosphere for all ages.
- Winter Festivals: Annual events that bring the community together to enjoy winter activities, games, and hot chocolate. The festivals are a highlight of the winter season and a fun way to embrace the colder months. Activities at the winter festivals often include ice skating, snowshoe races, and winter crafts, providing entertainment for the whole family.
Borden Farm and Fisher Heights truly offer a perfect blend of suburban living and urban convenience, making them ideal places for families and individuals alike. Whether you’re moving to the area or just exploring new neighbourhoods, Borden Farm and Fisher Heights offer a welcoming community and a high quality of life that’s hard to beat. osphere, and a high quality of life, making it ideal for families and individuals seeking village small town lifestyle.
And if you are thinking about relocating to Ottawa feel free to reach out to us. Give us a call – shoot us a text – send us an email – or even wrap it in a bow and send it first class because we got your back when moving to Ottawa or anywhere across Canada.
You can learn more about the city of Ottawa by visiting its official website: https://ottawa.ca/en.
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