10 Best Things to Do in Belleville This Summer

Discover the best things to do in Belleville this summer. Located just 2 hours from Toronto and 1 hour from Kingston, Belleville is a laid-back city along the Bay of Quinte that really shines in the warmer months. From quiet moments at Turtle Pond to drinks on the patio at Signal Brewery, this guide rounds up the best things to do, places to eat, and where to stay for the perfect summer escape.

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I first discovered Belleville in December (you might’ve read my post about visiting during the holidays), but coming back in the summer felt like meeting a completely different city. The downtown core was buzzing, the patios were full, and the riverfront trails were made for slow morning walks.

Over that weekend, I found myself returning to the river, exploring quiet trails at H.R. Frink, and winding up my days on a patio with a locally made craft beer. It wasn’t just about ticking off things to do, it was noticing how Belleville feels in the summer. Real. Relaxed. Like a town that’s settling into its season, with all the kindness and calm you’d hope for.

So here’s my guide to the 10 Best Things to Do in Belleville, Ontario, this summer. Perfect if you’re stopping in for a day trip, planning a weekend escape, or just want to see how the city shines in warm weather. Let’s go!

Don’t forget to check out all of my Ontario blog posts to make the most of your adventures!

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10 Best Things to Do in Belleville

1. Explore Downtown Belleville

Belleville’s downtown has quietly transformed into one of the most charming spots to wander on a sunny day. With its mix of heritage buildings, indie shops, and vibrant food scene, it’s the kind of place that invites you to slow down and explore on foot.

Start your day with a latte from Benji’s Coffee Bar, a cozy little spot with great drinks and even better people-watching. If you’re in the mood for something savoury, Kafana serves up delicious Balkan-inspired food in a bright and welcoming setting. And if you’re craving something tropical? Don’t miss Tropical Blends Café : the smoothies are perfect for a light summer refresher.

Downtown is also where you’ll find public art, cute boutiques, and seasonal events that spill out onto the streets. It’s walkable, photogenic, and full of personality.

Read more// If you’re a foodie, check out my full Belleville restaurant guide for more places to eat while you’re in town.

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2. Visit the Turtle Pond on the Bayshore Trail

Just a short walk from downtown, the Turtle Pond is one of Belleville’s most peaceful (and adorable) hidden gems. Nestled along the Bayshore Trails, this small pond is actually a designated turtle sanctuary, protected to help local turtle populations thrive.

If you’ve never seen a dozen turtles sunbathing on a log at once, you’re in for a treat. These quiet residents are a common sight throughout Belleville and the Bay of Quinte, especially in early summer when they’re nesting or lazily paddling through the water.

There are benches along the trail where you can sit and watch them and trust me, it’s surprisingly meditative. It’s also a favourite spot for morning walkers, families with kids, and anyone who just wants to take five and enjoy a moment of calm.

Good to know :This is a protected space, so fishing and off-leash pets aren’t allowed. Be turtle-kind and give them space to do their thing.

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3. Step Back in Time at Glanmore House

If you’re into history, architecture, or just love wandering through beautiful old houses, Glanmore National Historic Site is an absolute must. Built in 1883 and tucked away in a quiet residential area of Belleville, Glanmore is one of those places that instantly transports you to another era. Inside, you’ll find ornate Victorian interiors, period furnishings, and original artwork, all carefully preserved to reflect what life would’ve looked like for an affluent Canadian family in the late 19th century. The staircases, intricate ceilings, and stained-glass windows are worth the visit alone.

It’s more than just a museum, though. Glanmore also hosts rotating exhibitions and community events throughout the year, making it a fun stop even if you’ve been before.

Read more// The Glanmore House becomes even more magical during Christmas time. You can see the photos here.

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4. Relax at Corby Park

Right in the heart of Old East Hill, Corby Park is one of those postcard-perfect spots that feels made for summer. Lined with mature trees and manicured flower beds, the park features a beautiful fountain at its centre, with benches and shaded pathways that make it ideal for a mid-day break. Whether you’re picking up takeout from downtown or just looking for a quiet spot to read, Corby Park is a local go-to for slowing down. It’s especially pretty in the early evening when the flowers are in full bloom and the light softens over the trees.

It’s also a popular photo spot, so don’t be surprised if you catch a wedding party or a family snapping portraits near the fountain.

Good to know: There’s street parking nearby, and it’s only a short walk from both downtown and Glanmore House, making it a perfect in-between stop.

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5. Explore H.R. Frink Conservation Area

Just a short drive north of the city, H.R. Frink Conservation Area is where you go when you want to swap city buzz for birdsong and forest stillness. With over 13 km of trails winding through wetlands, forests, and meadows, it’s a peaceful place to hike, take photos, or just breathe. One of the highlights is the boardwalk trail, which takes you across the wetlands and gives you a close-up view of the area’s natural beauty — turtles, frogs, birds, and all. It’s especially lovely in the early morning or late afternoon when the light hits the trees and the trails are quieter.

This spot is great for all levels of walkers and hikers, and since it’s lesser known, you can often have long stretches of trail all to yourself.

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6. Sip a Drink on Belleville’s Best Patios

When the temperature rises, Belleville’s patio scene comes alive and a drink with a view is always the summer experience. Two standout spots bring distinctly different vibes:

Signal Brewery

Housed in the historic Corbyville distillery, Signal’s sprawling riverside patio overlooks the Moira River, offering breezy charm and live summer music. You’ll find small-batch craft beers like crisp lagers and hoppy IPAs paired with a delicious menu of wood-fired pizza, loaded nachos, and elevated pub fare. This spot nails that perfect mix of heritage, community, and relaxed riverside fun.

The Local Social House

For something a bit more downtown, The Local Social House delivers a refined yet inviting vibe. Think upscale brunch cocktails, craft wine flights, and a rotating menu of shareable plates, ideal for a late-afternoon sip or pre-dinner get-together. Their elegant patio feels like a summer soirée, laid-back but with an air of hometown sophistication.

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7. Hike to the Lookout at Sager Conservation Area

If you’re craving a stunning view without driving far, Sager Conservation Area is a hidden gem just a short trip from Belleville, in Quinte West. This quiet natural area offers a short but rewarding hike through forest and fields, culminating in a panoramic lookout that’s perfect around sunrise or sunset.

It’s amazing how quickly you can go from city to countryside, and the trail feels much more remote than it actually is. It’s only around 3 km total, making it ideal for families or anyone wanting fresh air and wide-open skies without a time commitment.

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8. Take a Day Trip to Presqu’ile Provincial Park

If you have a bit of extra time during your Belleville stay, Presqu’ile Provincial Park is more than worth the 40-minute drive. Located on a long peninsula that juts into Lake Ontario, it’s known for its long sandy beaches, boardwalks, and birdwatching, making it a perfect summer day trip.

Whether you’re into swimming, hiking, or just stretching out on a towel with a good book, Presqu’ile has that classic Ontario park vibe: laid-back, scenic, and a bit wild in the best way. The Lighthouse Interpretive Centre adds a bit of history to your visit, and the marsh boardwalk is especially lovely in the early evening.

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9. Grab an Ice Cream at Reid’s Dairy

A summer day in Belleville isn’t complete without a stop at Reid’s Dairy, a local institution that’s been serving up scoops for decades. Housed in a quirky, castle-inspired building, Reid’s is more than just a dairy, it’s a full-on Belleville experience. The star of the show? The generously sized soft-serve cone. And yes, it’s just as nostalgic and satisfying as it sounds. You’ll find kids, families, and locals lining up on sunny days for classic vanilla swirls or chocolate dips that never go out of style.

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10. Visit Pop-Ups on the Bay

If you’re looking for the ultimate summer hangout in Belleville, Pop‑Ups on the Bay delivers the perfect mix of food, local flavour, and riverside charm. Hosted at West Zwick’s Park, this seasonal outdoor gathering brings together a rotating lineup of food trucks, artisan vendors, and community events. All set against the backdrop of the shimmering the Bay of Quinte.

Picture yourself sinking into a picnic table under a shaded canopy, sipping a cold lemonade, while live music drifts in on the breeze. You can sample everything from gourmet tacos and wood-fired pizza to fresh coffee and sweet treats, all from local vendors showcasing their summer best. Add to that the laid-back summer atmosphere, and you have a weekend hotspot that feels effortlessly Belleville.

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Where to Stay in Belleville

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Belleville

For this trip, I stayed at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites, and it was the perfect home base. The location is super convenient, just a few minutes from downtown, the waterfront, and major routes, which made it easy to explore everything on this list without spending all my time in the car.

The rooms were clean, quiet, and comfortable (bonus: blackout blinds and great water pressure), and I really appreciated the included breakfast and free parking. Whether you’re visiting Belleville for a weekend getaway or as part of a bigger Ontario road trip, it’s a reliable and stress-free place to stay.

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Quick Tips for Visiting Belleville in Summer

• Timing is everything: July and August are ideal for patios, pop-up events, and catching turtles at Turtle Pond, but June and early September are quieter if you prefer fewer crowds.
• Parking is easy: Downtown Belleville offers free two-hour street parking, and there’s plenty of space at West Zwick’s Park for Pop-Ups on the Bay.
• Check hours in advance: Some shops, cafés, and restaurants close early or take Mondays/Tuesdays off, especially the smaller, independently owned ones.
• Follow local pages: For the latest on events and pop-up vendors, follow @bayofquinte, @discoverbelleville and @popupsonthebay on Instagram, they post weekly updates and insider tips.

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1- or 2-Day Itinerary for Belleville in Summer

Day 1: Downtown + Local Gems

Morning

• Start your day with a coffee from Benji’s Coffee Bar
• Stroll through Downtown Belleville, stopping in at local shops and checking out Corby Park
• Walk over to the Turtle Pond on the Riverside Trail and spend a few quiet moments with Belleville’s cutest residents

Afternoon

• Grab lunch at Kafanas or Tropical Blends
• Step back in time at the Glanmore National Historic Site
• Cool down at Reid’s Dairy.

Evening

• Head to Signal Brewery for drinks and dinner with a river view
• If you’re up for it, catch sunset at Sager Conservation Area for a peaceful end to the day

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Day 2: Nature, Views & Local Vibes

Morning

• Fuel up with your hotel breakfast (or grab something local)
• Drive out to H.R. Frink Conservation Area for a morning hike and time in nature

Afternoon

• Pack a picnic and make the short drive to Presqu’ile Provincial Park
• Walk the marsh boardwalk or lounge on the beach
• On the way back to Belleville, swing by a local farm stand or bakery

Evening

• Head to Pop-Ups on the Bay for dinner from a local food truck, live music, and one last view of the water

*Stay overnight at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites for a restful night between adventures.*

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Final Thoughts : 10 Things to do in Belleville

Belleville might not always be the first place that comes to mind when planning a summer getaway in Ontario, but that’s exactly why it’s so special. It’s a city that surprises you in the best way: peaceful riverside trails, vibrant downtown cafés, local history, and just enough adventure to keep things interesting.

Have you been to Belleville in the summer? Let me know your favourite spots in the comments, I’m always looking for new places to explore!

* P.S. This adventure was part of a collab with Bay of Quinte Tourism  but all opinions (and obsessions) are 100% mine! For more ideas of thing to do in the Bay of Quinte this Summer right here!

Looking for more Ontario travel ideas? Check out my other blog posts for itineraries, hiking trails, and hidden gems across the province!

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