Experience 2021 Welcome Guide

2021 SMITHS FALLS VISITOR’S GUIDE 1 2 2021 SMITHS FALLS VISITOR’S GUIDE Davidson Courtyard visit us at 7 Russell St West Shops Smiths Falls

2 2021 SMITHS FALLS VISITOR’S GUIDE table of contents WELCOME TO SMITHS FALLS 05 BRING THE KIDS 20 Learn more about who we are. Five family-friendly activities to keep you busy. HAPPENINGS 06 STAYCATION 22 What’s happening in 2021. Don’t vacation – staycation – close to home. EXPERIENCE SMITHS FALLS 10 GET OUTSIDE 24 Our top must-do experiences in Smiths Falls. Four seasons of adventure. HERITAGE WALKING TOUR 12 STAY HERE 26 Take our self-guided or guided walking tour Your adventure doesn’t need to end with the setting sun. and see the best of Smiths Falls architecture. AND TREKS 28 #INSTAGRAMMABLE SMITHS FALLS 14 Waterside trails and cycling routes await. 9 #ExperienceSmithsFalls moments to capture. SIP & SAVOUR SMITHS FALLS 18 Hungry? Thirsty? Food and drink experiences you’ll want to savour.

Vice President, Community Sales Kelly Montague 2021 Smiths Falls Visitor and General Manager John Willems Recreation Guide Articles and Editing only Amy Hogue Administration Stacey Delli Pizzi Advertising Sales Manager Braden Simmonds Advertising Sales Alicia Whyte Guy Larocque Paula Inglis Shane Johns Published by Stephanie Jamieson Steve White 65 Lorne Street, Smiths Falls, K7A 3K8 Katherine Porcheron 613-283-3182 • 1-800-267-7936 Director of Creative Services

To be included in next year’s publication Produced by Performance Printing - 65 Lorne Street, Smiths Falls, ON please call 613-283-3182 Tel: 613-283-3182 or 1-800-267-7936

4 2021 SMITHS FALLS VISITOR’S GUIDE welcome to SMITHS FALLS the of the

Nestled midway between and Kingston, also celebrate our natural environment and the Smiths Falls is a fast-growing waterfront outdoors as much as we can, no matter the community with historic architecture, a vibrant weather. From cycling, to swimming, , downtown, and friendly small-town charm. boating, paddling, cross country skiing, and We don’t mean to toot our own horn (even snowshoeing, we love to get out and play. though we do have a train right in the heart You’ll soon discover that Smiths Falls is a of town that could do it), but Smiths Falls is community with heart. We love to support one a relaxed and welcoming space with great another and we also love welcoming visitors hospitality and good vibes. and showing them everything we have to We’re a railroad town with a strong industrial offer. Whether you’re here for the fi rst time heritage and we are proud of our roots. So or rediscovering your own backyard, be sure many fun things happened here! For example, to wander through our downtown and tour did you know that the fi rst Beatles records in our heritage architecture. Stop by the various North America was made right here in Smiths shops and stores, enjoy a treat or meal at one Falls? of our many restaurants or cafés, or have an impromptu picnic in the park. With a location at the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Rideau Canal, we We love Smiths Falls, and we know you will too! Thank you for being here with us and being part of our 2021. #ExperienceSmithsFalls

4 2021 SMITHS FALLS VISITOR’S GUIDE 2021 SMITHS FALLS VISITOR’S GUIDE 5 6 show. Concession stand opens at7p.m. 7 p.m. with the movie starting at dusk. Enjoy different activities every week for the pre- variety ofnew releases, fan favourites and family friendly. Pre-show activities start at a family-friendly FREE movieonthe biginfl atable screen. Movieselections area Bring the familyanda blanketoralawn chairand spend yoursummer evening watching 613-283-6311 orfacebook.com/moviesunderthestars Thursdays, July andAugust ARS MOVIES UNDERTHE ST Kaling &BrendaWitherson the grounds.Checkwebsitefordetails. Come toHeritageHouseMuseum foranoutdoorperformanceof summertheatresmithsfalls.ca August 11to29 TT&BEN TRE:MA SUMMER THEA [email protected], 613-283-6311. ages 5andunderare$5each.Reservationsmustbemade inadvance.Contact between 12p.m.and1inJuly August. Costis$14perperson,children museum groundsservedwithaseasonaldessert.Event takes placeonweekends, Join HeritageHouseMuseumforadelightfulcupofteaor coolrefreshmentonthe 613-283-6311 orfacebook.com/heritagehousemuseum Weekends, JulyandAugust TEA August. website fordetailsonshowstakingplaceFriday,Saturday,orSundayinJulyand Museum allsummerlong,thankstotheSmithsFallsSummer Theatre. Checkthe happening There willbesomething summertheatresmithsfalls.ca Weekends, JulyandAugust TRESMITHSFALLS SUMMER THEA a fun,lowstress,yogainthepark.Alllevelsofexperiencearewelcome! time. CometoCentennialParkat10a.m.onSaturdaysthroughoutJulyandAugustfor Get flexibleanddrinkinthefreshairbeautyofRideauCanalatsame riseyogafest.com Saturdays, JulyandAugust,10a.m. ARK YOGA IN THEP based oncurrentpublichealthguidelines. refreshing drinksandgreatfood.Socialdistancingrequired;numberswillbecapped distanced, outdooreventhostedbyHometownMediaandfeaturinglivemusic, 11 p.m.forasocially 2 p.m.and Park onFridaysbetween Head toCentennial smithsfalls.ca Fridays, JulyandAugust MUSIC BY THE BASIN the SmithsFallsStationTheatre.Pleasevisitwebsiteformoredetails. Come experi 514-694-0383 |facebook.com/outerbridgemagic July andAugust OUTERBRIDGE MAGIC Happenings event organizerbeforeheadingoutforuptodateinformation. activities willcomplywithpublichealthguidelines.Pleasecheckthe What’s happeningin2021SmithsFalls.Pleasenotetheseeventsor EVENTS 2021 BY

SMITHS THE RIDEAU e the mystery of this world-class magic show, performed outdoors at magic show,performed mystery ofthisworld-class ence the FALL S VISITOR’S GUIDE on the grounds at Heritage House at Heritage outdoors onthegrounds Matt &Ben,byMindy Find Your home is your palace, and with Lépine you get all the luxuries of modern-apartment living.

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EXPLORE Experience Smiths Falls Experience the best of Smiths Falls with these iconic local activities.

Bring on the Cocktail Hour Newly opened in 2019, Bowie’s has since become a fun spot to enjoy a yummy, creative cocktail, local craft beer or glass of wine while listening to up-and-coming musical talent. Enjoy the fresh air in Bowie’s outdoor sitting area and make yourself at home with good food and good music, together. bowiessmithsfalls.com

Watch a Movie Under the Stars You don’t need to go indoors to enjoy the big screen, you can have a theatrical experience under the stars in the beautiful setting of Centennial Park. Bring a lawnchair, some popcorn, and a blanket to wrap up in when the night gets cool, and watch as the big screen comes to life with new and vintage releases. This free community event takes place Thursday evenings in July and August and is fun for the whole family. Town of Smiths Falls smithsfalls.ca

Discover Smiths Falls’ Railway History So much of Smiths Falls has been shaped by our rich railway history. Here, the Railway Museum of is housed in an Edwardian-era, former Canadian National Railway Station that is now a National Historic Site. Visit the museum and take a hand-car ride, see a grand steam engine and a telegram offi ce, and take a peek inside the only remaining dental car in North America. Finish the day with an overnight stay in an authentic, vintage caboose, and new this year, dine in a vintage dining car. Railway Museum rmeo.org

Experience the Rideau Canal As Ontario’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Rideau Canal is an experience unto itself. Visit the Rideau Canal Visitor Centre to learn all about how this fantastic architectural marvel was built, nearly 200 years ago. Stop by one of the three lockstations to watch the boats lock up and down the Rideau Canal and chat with the friendly Parks Canada staff. Bring a canoe, kayak, or SUP (or rent one nearby) and get out on the water for the full Rideau experience. Parks Canada pc.gc.ca

Splash in the Canal Who doesn’t enjoy a good, old-fashioned afternoon of sun, sand, and water play? Lounge at the beach that overlooks one of Canada’s greatest treasures, the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Rideau Canal. Play in the clear waters of the river, bounce on the water trampoline, or relax on a smooth, sandy beach to while away the long summer hours. Pack a picnic lunch and spend the day outdoors, exploring the islands and bridges, and basking in the beauty of the waterway. Town of Smiths Falls smithsfalls.ca

10 2021 SMITHS FALLS VISITOR’S GUIDE Chill on a Downtown Patio When you live in a community surrounded by stunning natural scenery, of course you are looking for any excuse to spend time outdoors! Stop for a bite to eat at a downtown eatery or pub, many of which have created fabulous outdoor spaces to dine in, some with a view of the water. Visit Rob Roy’s on the ground floor of the Econolodge where you can dine on a patio overlooking the Rideau Canal, or grab a sweet treat at C’est Tout Bakery for a streetside view. Matty O’Shea’s patio overlooks historic Chamber Street and is the perfect spot for people watching. Stop for a bite to eat on Harvest Social’s patio at the Davidson Courtyard, or savour gastropub fare at The Vault on a bustling Russell Street. Rob Roy’s (Find them on Facebook) C’est Tout cesttoutbakery.com Matty O’Shea’s facebook.com/mattyosheas Harvest Social facebook.com/harvestsocialsf The Vault Eatery facebook.com/thevaulteaterypub

Visit 4 Degrees Brewing Learn more about Smiths Falls’ history, not at a museum, but at the local craft brewery! Visit 4 Degrees Brewing and sample locally crafted brews served in a delightful open-concept space, complete with outdoor patio. You’ll find 4 Degrees’ brews have unique names like Old Slys ’69, Frost & Wood ’55 or Hill 70 – ask how they came up with their names and immerse yourself in local history and frothy beer at the same time. 4 Degree’s Brewing 4degreesbrewing.com

Have a Picnic in the Park Bask in the beauty of the Rideau Canal as it winds through Smiths Falls while enjoying an old-fashioned picnic in one of our waterside parks. Pick up a boxed picnic lunch through Smiths Falls’ PICNIC dining program and savour a delicious meal from one of our local restaurants, along with a free gift from the Town of Smiths Falls! Town of Smiths Falls smithsfalls.ca/experience

Take a Step Back in Time Visit the Heritage House Museum and experience Smiths Falls as it would have been more than 100 years ago. Built in 1862 as a private mill-owner’s home, the museum now showcases the history and culture of the Smiths Falls’ community. Wander through the period rooms, check out the two- story privy, or stroll the scenic grounds where you can enjoy a picnic in the Victorian gazebo. The grounds are located on the picturesque Rideau Canal waterway, offering a unique glimpse at the remaining rapids in Smiths Falls and the Old Slys Lockstation. Heritage House Museum facebook.com/heritagehousemuseum Explore our Trails Smiths Falls is home to three systems: The is a 387-kilometre trail that runs between Kingston and Ottawa; the Cataraqui Trailhead and the Ottawa Valley Rail Trailhead (OVRT) are former railway lines and are ideal for foot, bike, cross country skiing, snow machines or horseback riding. The will take you toward Kingston while the OVRT travels north to and beyond. There is also a network of waterside trails that run alongside tree-lined streets and scenic rural areas in and around Smiths Falls that are perfect for exploring on foot or by bike. Cataraqui Trail cataraquitrail.ca Rideau Trail rideautrail.org OVRT facebook.com/ottawavalleyrailtrail

10 2021 SMITHS FALLS VISITOR’S GUIDE 2021 SMITHS FALLS VISITOR’S GUIDE 11 Tour our Architectural Heritage Discover Smiths Falls’ stories through our architecture. the tour Touring the architecture of a community can fun way to learn more about local history and Complete give you a peek into their culture and heritage, architecture at the same time. Our walking 1. SMITHS FALLS LIBRARY and a good idea of where they are coming tour will take you through downtown Smiths 81 Beckwith St. N. from. This connection is obvious in Smiths Falls to stop and take a closer look at some of 2. CENTRAL SCHOOL Falls. the buildings and the stories behind them. 79 Beckwith St. N. 3. TOWN HALL As a crossroads for the railway, the Rideau Whether you’re inspired by architecture 77 Beckwith St. N. Canal, and the highway, Smiths Falls has or looking for something fun to do for an 4. HOSE DRYING TOWER Church Street East historically been industrial town. Major afternoon in Smiths Falls, the Heritage 5. FORMER CANADIAN BANK businesses like Frost & Wood, Canadian Walking Tour will fi t both bills. Take this self- OF COMMERCE Northern Railway, RCA Victor, Hershey’s guided tour to discover the secret architectural 2 Russell St. E. 6. DAVIDSON COURTYARD Chocolate Factory and Stanley Tools left gems peppered throughout the community 7 Russell St. W. their mark in our community, not only through which you can wander at your own pace. 7. HOTEL RIDEAU employment, but also through architecture. 20 Beckwith St. N. Here is a peek into six of the 31 destinations 8. WASHBURN BLOCK The Smiths Falls Heritage Walking Tour is a you can expect to see on the tour. 2-6 Beckwith St. S. 9. FORT HEMLOCK 28 Beckwith St. S. The Smiths Falls East Mill, Wood’s Mill 10. EAST MILL, WOOD’S MILL Public Library Complex COMPLEX The Smiths Falls Library Today home to the Rideau 34 Beckwith St. S. has been a functioning Canal Visitor Centre and the library since it was built head offi ce of the Rideau Canal 11. THE OLD RIDEAU THEATRE with a Carnegie grant in for Parks Canada, this is one 1 Chambers St. E. 1904 and is a building of Smiths Falls’ iconic buildings, 12. CLARK BUILDING you don’t want to miss constructed on an island 1 Beckwith St. S. when visiting Smiths created by the . Falls. Take a trek up 13. ROYAL CANADIAN LEGION the stairs to look out BRANCH 95 the distinctive round windows, 7 Main St. E. see the original lighting and grab Frost Mansion Row a book to read beside the original Hotel Rideau These mansions will give you 14. FORMERLY THE LAST fi replace. Come and see how an idea of how magnifi cently CHANCE HOTEL this grand old lady some of the richest of the 32 Main St. E. Smiths Falls Town Hall has been restored rich lived in Smiths Falls. Still 15. THE OLDEST BUILDING Smiths Falls Town Hall is used and turned into private homes today, these 30 Chambers St. today for the seat of council for elegant apartments Edwardian mansions were the Town of Smiths Falls – come and retail. built for the Frost & Wood 16. ABEL RUSSELL WARD and take a peek and say hello to families, industrial moguls 57 Chambers St. municipal staff . of their day. Fuller Post Offi ce 17. FROST MANSION ROW 65 and 69 Chambers St. Come and see how this historical building has been restored to its 18. THE CRAINE HOUSE original glory – clocktower, corbels 2 Bay St. N. and all – thanks to a resurgence in investment taking place in Smiths 19. THE DOCTOR’S HOUSE Falls. This building’s restoration 39 Russell St. E. was recognized in 2021 with the 20. TRINITY UNITED CHURCH Lieutenant Governor’s Heritage Award 41 Market St. N. for Excellence in Conservation which was awarded to the building’s owner 21. FULLER POST OFFICE for his contribution to preserving 30 Russell St. E. Ontario’s heritage.

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12 2021 SMITHS FALLS VISITOR’S GUIDE 2021 SMITHS FALLS VISITOR’S GUIDE 13 #Instagrammable smiths falls If you’re looking for Instagrammable shots that will make Here are nine spots known for always being up to you the envy of your social media friends, you’re in luck. the challenge of giving you that perfect shot. Smiths Falls is the place to capture unique shots (think Share your photos using the hashtag Rideau Canal Visitor Centre), fantastic scenery (hello, #ExperienceSmithsFalls and we’ll share your best Rideau Canal!) and cool subjects (swans are cool, right?). shots on our Instagram page, too! #FriendsShare

MUSIC AT THE BASIN RAILWAY MUSEUM OF EASTERN ONTARIO ST. FRANCIS DE SALES @jeniferbrown @rmeo.sf @matthewdanielphotos

MOVIES UNDER THE STARS VICTORIA BASIN BASCULE BRIDGE @catwoodphotography @beautifulsmithfalls

BOWIE’S RIDEAU CANAL DOWNTOWN SMITH FALLS @beautifulsmithfalls @beautifulsmithfalls

14 2021 SMITHS FALLS VISITOR’S GUIDE

Ottawa HWY HWY Hospital 15 43 Perth 1. Memorial Community Centre: smithsfalls.ca Seniors 2. Smiths Falls Public Library: smithsfallslibrary.ca Centre 3. The Station Theatre: smithsfallstheatre.com CORNELIA ST Lawn Bowling Grocery 1 4. Railway Museum Eastern Ontario: rmeo.org Skate Memorial 5. Bowling Alley: grattonlanes.ca Park Outdoor ELMSLEY ST Community Centre Rink 6. Rideau Canal Visitor Centre Rink, Walking Track, 7. Victoria Park: smithsfallschamber.com/parks-camping + Basketball Courts 8. Heritage House Museum: smithsfalls.ca RIDEAU TRAIL 3 9. Rideau Trail: rideautrail.org Library The Station 10. Cataraqui Trail: cataraquitrail.ca Theatre 11. Le Boat Head Office: leboat.ca MAPLE AVE DANIEL ST 12. Tweed: tweed.com WILLIAM ST W 2 9 VICTORIA ST 13. 4 Degrees Brewing Company: 4degreesbrewing.com

Railway Museum of Eastern Ontario CHURCH ST W Town Hall + Welcome Centre 4 RUSSELL ST E RUSSELL ST W

GEORGE ST WILLIAM ST E N

WILLIAM ST W BECKWITH ST P

JAMES ST

MAIN ST E S

MAIN ST W MARKET ST S The Rideau Rideau Canal RIDEAU TRAIL Swale Visitor Bowling CHAMBERS ST Centre Look Out Grocery 5 PARK AVE 6 ABBOTT ST N P Beach QUEEN ST Hotel Boat Combined Turtle Lockstation Island Rentals Pow Wow  Duck Docks 11 Tweed Bascule Island P le boat 12 Bridge Detached Victoria Park Lockstation + Playground 7 Gallipeau Centre LOMBARD ST JASPER AVE + Pool ST HWY Merrickville Rideau River 43

Settlers Ridge Hotel Centre Old Slys Grocery Grocery Liquor Docks HWY 10 Splash Pad Beer 13 Golf 15 Course Lower Heritage Cataraqui HWY P House Trail Head Reach 8 Golf 29 Museum Kingston Course Park Ottawa VIA Rail HWY HWY Hospital 15 43 Perth 1. Memorial Community Centre: smithsfalls.ca Seniors 2. Smiths Falls Public Library: smithsfallslibrary.ca Centre 3. The Station Theatre: smithsfallstheatre.com CORNELIA ST Lawn Bowling Grocery 1 4. Railway Museum Eastern Ontario: rmeo.org Skate Memorial 5. Bowling Alley: grattonlanes.ca Park Outdoor ELMSLEY ST Community Centre Rink 6. Rideau Canal Visitor Centre Rink, Walking Track, 7. Victoria Park: smithsfallschamber.com/parks-camping + Basketball Courts 8. Heritage House Museum: smithsfalls.ca RIDEAU TRAIL 3 9. Rideau Trail: rideautrail.org Library The Station 10. Cataraqui Trail: cataraquitrail.ca Theatre 11. Le Boat Head Office: leboat.ca MAPLE AVE DANIEL ST 12. Tweed: tweed.com WILLIAM ST W 2 9 VICTORIA ST 13. 4 Degrees Brewing Company: 4degreesbrewing.com

Railway Museum of Eastern Ontario CHURCH ST W Town Hall + Welcome Centre 4 RUSSELL ST E RUSSELL ST W

GEORGE ST WILLIAM ST E N

WILLIAM ST W BECKWITH ST P

JAMES ST

MAIN ST E S

MAIN ST W MARKET ST S The Rideau Rideau Canal RIDEAU TRAIL Swale Visitor Bowling CHAMBERS ST Centre Look Out Grocery 5 PARK AVE 6 ABBOTT ST N P Beach QUEEN ST Hotel Boat Combined Turtle Lockstation Island Rentals Pow Wow  Duck Docks 11 Tweed Bascule Island P le boat 12 Bridge Detached Victoria Park Lockstation + Playground 7 Gallipeau Centre LOMBARD ST JASPER AVE + Pool BROCKVILLE ST HWY Merrickville Rideau River 43

Settlers Ridge Hotel Centre Old Slys Grocery Grocery Liquor Docks HWY 10 Splash Pad Beer 13 Golf 15 Course Lower Heritage Cataraqui HWY P House Trail Head Reach 8 Golf 29 Museum Kingston Course Park 18 savourlanark.ca/smithsfalls. know ontheSip&Savourwebsite: the trail.Findeverythingyouneedto Eastern Ontario,bothdestinationson caboose attheRailwayMuseumof Smiths Fallsorinanauthentic spend thenightatBestWestern After aone-of-a-kinddiningexperience, here. brew pubsandbakeries,you’llfi nd it to sharewithyou,fromIndianfare have avarietyofculinaryexperiences had intheregion.InSmithsFalls,we delicious foodandexperiencestobe a compilationofsomethemost ’s Sip&Savour Trail, Smiths Fallsispleasedtobepartof smiths falls sip &savour 4degreesbrewing.com time whileyousip. checkers on-handtowhileawaysome their names. There’s alwaysagameof the bartendertogetfullstorybehind of 7orFrost&Wood beersandchatwith with astorytotell. Try theirpopularNorth a visitto4DegreesBrewing,brewery A mustsipexperienceinSmithsFallsis 4 DegreesBrewingCompany DINING 2021 SMITHS FALLS VISITOR’S GUIDE

bowiessmithsfalls.com sights andsounds ofdowntownSmithsFalls. cocktail, chancesaretheycan makeitforyou!Sitontheiroutdoorpatioanddrinkinthe Try apressedpaniniorsharecharcuterie boardwithfriends.Ifyouhaveafavourite Combine cocktails,localbeer andtastytidbitsatBowie’s, SmithsFalls’ newestvenue. Bowie’s cesttoutbakery.com and madefromscratch! is alwayshearty, delicious, their soupoftheday, which Sausage, tonameafew. Try Farm &DairyandSeedto Roasted Coffee, Milkhouse producers likeFluidSolar savour localfl avours from Tout isalsowhereyoucan Not justforcoffee, C’est downtown SmithsFalls. little Parisian-stylecaféin Get caffeinated atthiscute C’est ToutBakery

Bring the Kids! Bring the kids for a full day of family-friendly fun in Smiths Falls. We pride ourselves on our low-key, outdoor experiences that invites adults to relax and unwind, and gives kids plenty of opportunities to run free. Here are eight ways to play for the young and the young at heart.

1. Bounce on a Water Trampoline Don’t miss this fl oating trampoline and obstacle course located near Murphy Park, beside the beach in Smiths Falls.

2. Have a Beach Day The whole family will love spending the day at the beach! Jump on a water trampoline in the Rideau Canal and reach new heights of fun and excitement. Mom and Dad can chill on the grass while the kids build sandcastles, splash in the water and search for crayfi sh.

3. Splash and Play at Lower Reach Park Splash at Smiths Falls’ fun splash pad at Lower Reach Park, where you can spend the full day and never get bored. The park here has 60 acres of parkland, not to mention soccer fi elds, beach volleyball court, bocce ball courts, tennis courts, basketball courts, running paths, outdoor workout equipment and a play structure. .

4. Have a Picnic Your kids will love running across one of our pedestrian bridges to Turtle or Duck Island and sitting on the grass at Centennial Park, watching the boats (and swans) go by. You can pick up picnic fare from any number of places downtown, or at grocery stores and markets in Smiths Falls.

20 2021 SMITHS FALLS VISITOR’S GUIDE 5. Learn a Little Do your kids consider learning an adventure? They can choose between three museums in Smiths Falls – the Railway Museum of Eastern Ontario where they can learn all there is to know about trains and the railway history in Smiths Falls; Heritage House Museum which gives a glimpse into life in Smiths Falls in the mid-1800s; and the Rideau Canal Visitor Centre which can be your launchpad for experiencing the canal (at any age).

Railway Museum of Eastern Ontario rmeo.org Heritage House Museum facebook.com/heritagehouse Rideau Canal Visitor Centre pc.gc.ca

6. See a Movie Under the Stars Are you missing the big screen these days? Head to Centennial Park on a Thursday evening to watch a movie while lounging on a lawnchair or blanket. This is a perfect family-friendly event that kids will love!

Movies Under the Stars Facebook.com/MoviesUndertheStars

7. Bowl for Strikes Remember when a day at the bowling alley was the best day ever? Have some old-fashioned fun and introduce your little ones to bowling with an afternoon on the lanes at Gratton Bowling Lanes in downtown Smiths Falls. This vintage fi ve-pin bowling alley will send you back in time as you lace up those bowling shoes.

8. Scream for Ice Cream You scream, I scream, we all scream for ice cream! Kids aren’t the only ones who love ice cream, but this kid-friendly treat is always a big hit. Stop by Sweet Scoops in the downtown and grab a cone to go, then fi nd a bench outdoors. If ice cream isn’t your thing, you can also pick up a sweet treat from C’est Tout Bakery or any number of eateries in town. Sweet Scoops facebook.com/sweetscoops.sf C’est Tout Bakery cesttoutbakery.com

20 2021 SMITHS FALLS VISITOR’S GUIDE 2021 SMITHS FALLS VISITOR’S GUIDE 21 STAYCATION Staycation Smiths Falls

22 2021 SMITHS FALLS VISITOR’S GUIDE This summer you don’t need to listen to your kids asking “Are we there yet?” when it’s time for a holiday. Have a staycation close to home and rediscover (or discover for the first time) a world-class community nestled in the heart of Ontario’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Rideau Canal.

A staycation in Smiths Falls will give you everything you are looking for in a mini-getaway – room to roam, access to outdoor adventures, stellar food and drink, all only a short drive from home.

Romance at the Falls Couples will love the romance of Smiths Falls’ waterside location. Stroll hand in hand amid Smiths Falls’ architectural gems on our Heritage Walking Tour, and stop to share a sweet dessert from C’est Tout Bakery along the way. Learn more about Smiths Falls’ story at the Rideau Canal Visitor Centre, the Railway Museum of Eastern Ontario, or Heritage House Museum. End your day watching as the sun sets over the falls on the outdoor patio at The Lockmaster’s Taphouse and Patio. Spend the Night: Rent a Le Boat for a weekend or longer to explore the Rideau.

Girls’ Trip Grab some friends and come for a weekend staycation of fun and relaxation in ‘the Falls!’ On the agenda is some spa time at Blue Door Spa in the downtown core (think mani-pedi), followed by lunch at Harvest Social and some time to browse the boutique shops downtown. End your day with a creative cocktail on Bowie’s outdoor patio beneath the stars. Spend the Night: Lay your head in the Smiths Falls’ Best Western hotel.

Family Fun, Close to Home Bring the kids and have some good, old-fashioned fun in our small community. Take a walk along the Rideau waterway, cast your line, or splash and play at Murphy Park’s sandy beach, then stop for a picnic lunch in the park. Spend the afternoon bowling at Gratton Bowling Lanes before dining on an outdoor patio in the heart of the downtown. Don’t miss a visit to Sweet Scoops for a sweet ice cream treat. Spend the Night: In a real caboose at the Railway Museum of Eastern Ontario.

22 2021 SMITHS FALLS VISITOR’S GUIDE 2021 SMITHS FALLS VISITOR’S GUIDE 23 ACTIVE Get Outside Located at the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Rideau Canal, Smiths Falls has everything you need to either break a sweat or take part in leisurely outdoor activities. Hike or cycle on picturesque waterfront trails, play a round of golf on the same green that produced LPGA champion, Brooke Henderson, or paddle a world-class water destination. Spread your wings and embrace the fresh air and room to roam in Smiths Falls! Find outdoor adventure in all four seasons right here in Smiths Falls.

Cycle On On two wheels is one of the best ways to get a real sense of a community. Smiths Falls is situated within 30-kilometres of Merrickville, Rideau Ferry and Perth, and features scenic back roads and stunning landscapes. For the high intensity cyclist, Smiths Falls has fostered a strong cycling community, and is home to Canada’s fi rst and oldest triathlon, held each June. Somersault Events somersault.ca Hike the Trails Fishing on the Rideau Studies show that walking is an excellent Rod and reel will be welcome additions for outdoor physical activity, and one that a visit to Smiths Falls. Via the canal you is accessible to most. You can get your can head either north or south on the river steps here by walking the scenic paths to access deeper water on Big Rideau that wind along the water and throughout and Lower , well known as town. The Cataraqui Trail and Rideau fi shing destinations. The Rideau is known Trail both have miles to explore on foot for crappie, pike, walleye, bass, trout, or by bike, and are the perfect way muskellunge, catfi sh, and more. Book to experience the natural terrain this a fi shing camp with local expert angler, area is known for. Stroll on the town’s Peter Larmand, and learn the basics of walking paths that can take you from the fi shing (suitable for all ages, even adults!). downtown to nearby parks, over bridges, Check provincial regulations relating to past fountains and beside the sparkling fi shing seasons and what licenses are waters of the Rideau Canal. required. Cataraqui Trail cataraquitrail.ca ontario.ca/page/fi shing Rideau Trail rideautrail.org peterlarmand.com 24 2021 SMITHS FALLS VISITOR’S GUIDE Parks & Playgrounds Alexander Park Alexander Avenue Golf like Brooke Henderson Ball diamond and large play area with a play structure. Located on Come and play a round at the home course Alexander Avenue. of LPGA Major Champion, Brooke Henderson and her sister, Brittany. The Smiths Falls Golf Centennial Park 2-22 Confederation Dr. & Country Club is a welcoming, beautiful and Under the water tower in central challenging 18-hole course that is a popular golf Smiths Falls (2-22 Confederation Dr.), destination in the Ottawa Valley. A short drive features a picnic area and beach with a water inflatable trampoline, out of town is Rolling Greens Golf Club (formerly showers, washrooms, free parking, Lombard Glen), Canada’s first cannabis-themed boat tie-ups, and walking trails. 18-hole golf course. Corbett & Highland Park Smiths Falls Golf Club smithsfallsgolf.com Off Chambers Street on Empress/ Sussex Streets Rolling Greens Golf Club rollinggreens.ca Two baseball fields and a play structure.

Kinsmen Park Paddle or SUP the Beside Town Hall 77 Beckwith St. Rideau Canal Ideal picnic spot, with a grassy play area and benches, and shade trees. It’s time to discover all that Washrooms available inside Town the Rideau Canal has to offer Hall. when it comes to outdoor and Lower Reach Park water play. Grab your paddle Old Slys Road and canoe, kayak, or SUP and Play structure and splash pad, explore the natural wonder access to soccer fields, tennis courts, ball diamonds, basketball courts, of the Rideau waterway in athletic field, pavilion, Bocce ball Smiths Falls. Lock through courts, outdoor fitness equipment, walking trails and picnic area. one of Smiths Falls’ three Washrooms available. Several lockstations for a closer look walking trails traverse the park. at this engineering marvel. Pack a picnic lunch and set Smiths Falls Memorial Community Centre off for Poonamalie Locks (two 71 Cornelia St. hours round trip) on an outdoor Indoor Olympic-sized arena, skate adventure that will highlight our park, tennis courts, Gerry Lowe Memorial Rink (outdoors) offers ice region’s wildlife and beautiful skating in winter, and basketball in scenery. Bring your camera summer. Washrooms are inside the to snap some pics of the community centre. landscape and wildlife you will Victoria Park Campground see along the way. & Marina Lombard Street Play structure, swings, pavilion, and paved walking/cycle paths, as well as docking.

Gleeson Dog Park Just off Old Slys Road On Old Slys Road, beside the Curling Club, offers a fenced area for dogs to run, and picnic benches. Free parking.

24 2021 SMITHS FALLS VISITOR’S GUIDE 2021 SMITHS FALLS VISITOR’S GUIDE 25 STAY

stay here Stay here and play longer! Your Smiths Falls adventure can go on and on when you pair it with a good night’s sleep in a local accommodation, and you’ll love some of the creative options for a getaway here. Stay in Smiths Falls and do it all over again the next day. #ExperienceSmithsFalls by day and by night.

Caboose Adventure You can spend the night in an authentic vintage caboose and have stories to tell and pictures to share of the experience. Lay back in an old-fashioned train car and read by lamplight while you imagine yourself hurtling across the country by rail in days gone by. Get a key to access all the amenities you need and a delicious breakfast is included from a local bakery in the morning. Add this one-of-a-kind experience to your bucket list. Railway Museum of Eastern Ontario 613-283-5696 | rmeo.org

Bonus: Le Boat Plan ahead and stay in luxury with Le Boat, an international houseboat rental company headquartered in Smiths Falls. You can rent a luxurious cruiser from Le Boat and cruise the Rideau Canal from Smiths Falls. Boats sleep up to 12 and no experience is necessary to drive one. Bring the whole family and make your overnight stay one for the memory books. leboat.com 26 2021 SMITHS FALLS VISITOR’S GUIDE Bed & Breakfasts and Airbnbs Don’t be a stranger - stay at a bed and breakfast and meet the owners for a more personalized getaway. These friendly folks are more than willing to share their tips and insider secrets for how to get the most out of your experience in Smiths Falls. Sleep in a bed so comfortable you won’t believe you’re not at home, then get up the next morning in time for a breakfast of champions. Visit the Airbnb website to find listings in Smiths Falls and surrounding area.

Hotels After a day out on the town you’ll be ready for a good night’s sleep at one of Smiths Falls’ hotels. On Highway 15 you’ll find the Best Western Colonel By Inn which has an outdoor pool, free Wifi, and complimentary breakfast. You can even bring the dog with you because they are welcome here! In downtown Smiths Falls is the Econolodge, located right on the shores of the Rideau Canal and with an on-site restaurant, Rob Roy’s. Both hotels are within walking distance of the downtown core, and the perfect base to launch your exploration of Smiths Falls. Best Western Colonel By Inn 613-284-0001 | bestwestern.com Econolodge 613-283-5150 | choicehotels.com 26 2021 SMITHS FALLS VISITOR’S GUIDE 2021 SMITHS FALLS VISITOR’S GUIDE 27 waterside trails TRAILS & TREKS and railway routes Spend a few minutes in Smiths Falls and you’ll realize that with so much space and natural beauty it’s a community made for exploring on foot or by bike. With such stellar views of the Rideau waterway, we’ve made it a priority to build trails that allow us to experience the water from every stunning vantage point.

If cycling’s your game, a look at a map will tell you how fortunate we are to sit in the centre of a network of roadways, all the better to cycle on. You can park in Smiths Falls and cycle to Merrickville, Perth, Carleton Place, and beyond, but you’ll want to come back to watch the sunset over the Rideau on an outdoor patio at the end of the day.

The Rideau Trail With its location at the heart of the Rideau Canal, of course the Rideau Trail runs right through our town. The Rideau Trail is a 387-kilometre network of hiking trails between Kingston and the City of Ottawa. This trail is not multi-use, it’s only for walking, so please be respectful of that request. The Rideau Trail is the perfect place to have a multi-day hike – walk through the wooded splendour and then camp outdoors at one of the designated campsites. The Rideau Canal lockstations make the perfect place to lay your head at the end of a long day on your feet. rideautrail.org

The Cataraqui Trail If you haven’t hiked or biked the Cataraqui Trail you are missing out. This 103-kilometre-long former rail bed stretches from Smiths Falls to Strathcona, with access to the trail at the end of Ferrara Drive, at 123 Lombard St., just south of Highway 15. This is a shared use trail and it’s well traveled by cyclists and hikers in summer, or snowmobiles in winter (snowmobiles must have a trail permit). Take your time on the ‘Cat’ trail as it leads you through some of the most beautiful natural scenery in eastern Ontario. Be sure to bring your camera and snap some pics as you come across wildlife and scenic photo ops. This is a great trail for beginners! cataraquitrail.ca

Explore the OVRT Hike or cycle the former railbed that runs from Smiths Falls to Renfrew, the Ottawa Valley Recreational Trail. This multi-use gravel trail offers a nice fl at terrain for all skill levels. Park in Smiths Falls to access the trailhead on two wheels or two feet. OVRT ottawavalleytrail.com

28 2021 SMITHS FALLS VISITOR’S GUIDE Helping Small Businesses in Lanark County, Smiths Falls and north Leeds Grenville Contact us @ Email: [email protected] Website: www.smallbizcentre.ca

Municipal Trails The waterside network of trails that travel tree-lined streets and Your Local Source For scenic rural areas in and around Nitrogen • Argon • Oxygen Smiths Falls are perfect for wandering on foot or by bike. Take Balloon Helium • Acetylene a stroll on a walking path that can • Welding & Cutting Equipment take you from the downtown core to nearby parks and the Rideau • Power Tools • Abrasives • Fume Extraction Canal, where you can unwind and smell the flowers (literally)! NEW STORE SHOWROOM Cross the Rideau Canal at one of the lockstations in town and NOW OPEN marvel at the simple technology used to operate this 200-plus MONDAY - FRIDAY 8AM-5PM year-old structure. Bring a picnic lunch or pick up something from one of the many eateries in town 145 Lombard St., Smiths Falls, ON and take a pause beneath a towering tree in Centennial Park or along the water in Lower Reach 613-207-7018 Park.

28 2021 SMITHS FALLS VISITOR’S GUIDE RAILWAY MUSEUM OF EASTERN ONTARIO 90 William Street West . y r

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