This is your guide for things to do in Perth. Located only 1 hour from Ottawa and half-way between Ottawa and Kingston, Perth makes the perfect destination for a day-trip. If you’re looking for recommendations of what to do in Perth look no further: this curated itinerary features my top picks!
Perth is often describe as one of the most “European” towns in Ontario. And although I’m not a fan of this kind of description, I have to admit that there is something special about Perth. The stone buildings, the canal going through the down, the cute coffee shops and boutiques… this town doesn’t feel like you are in the middle of Ontario.
Perth has a population of around 6,000 people. It’s a small but charming town with a rich history, dating back to the early 1800s. This tight-knit community feel, paired with its beautiful historical buildings and nature spots, makes it a popular destination for a day-trip from both Ottawa or Kingston.
I’ve put together this quick guide to help you hit all the highlights of things to do in Perth on your next day-trip to Ontario’s cutest town.
YOUR GUIDE FOR A DAY-TIP IN PERTH
What to know before visiting Perth?
- Perth is located in Lanark County, about a 1-hour drive (83 kilometers) southwest of Ottawa and approximately a 1.5-hour drive (87 kilometers) northeast of Kingston, making it an easy day trip from either city or a cozy weekend getaway.
- Founded in 1816 as part of a British military settlement, Perth is one of Ontario’s oldest towns. Its rich history is celebrated through heritage sites, like the Perth Museum, and annual festivals that draw locals and tourists alike.
- Perth was the site of the last fatal duel in Upper Canada (now Ontario) in 1833. The duel took place over an insult related to a woman’s honor, and tragically, one of the participants, John Wilson, killed his friend Robert Lyon.
- In 1893, Perth made history by producing a massive wheel of cheese, weighing over 22,000 pounds! This giant cheese was showcased at the Chicago World’s Fair, putting the small town on the map.
THINGS TO DO IN PERTH?
Go for a Stroll in Stewart Park
A visit to Perth needs to start by a stroll through Stewart Park. Nestled along the Tay River, the park offers a peaceful escape with scenic walking paths, wooden bridges, and well-maintained gardens that bloom in the warmer months. With its picturesque stone bridges, shady willow trees, and river views, Stewart Park is often described as one of the prettiest parks in Ontario. It’s a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike to relax, picnic, and enjoy the natural surroundings.
The park itself has an interesting historical background. It was named after the Stewart family, prominent figures in Perth’s early days, and was later donated to the town as a memorial. This park, with its meticulously preserved landscaping and vintage charm, feels like a living tribute to the town’s heritage.
Explore the historic downtown
Perth’s historic downtown is like stepping into a postcard, with its cobblestone walkways, charming heritage buildings, and vibrant storefronts. As one of Ontario’s best-preserved 19th-century towns, Perth’s downtown is a showcase of beautiful stone architecture dating back to the early 1800s. The shops, cafes, and restaurants that line the streets are housed in original limestone and brick buildings, giving the area a distinct old-world charm.
The star of the show however is the Tay Canal, which winds through Perth. It’s roots stretch back to the 19th century. Originally constructed in the 1830s, it was built to connect Perth with the bustling Rideau Canal system, offering a vital trade route for the town’s early industries. Although it was initially abandoned in the 1850s due to lack of use, a revival in the late 19th century led to its reconstruction, and today the canal serves as a recreational gem rather than a trade route.
Some of my favorite spots downtown
Perth Cheese Shop
The Perth Cheese Shop is a beloved stop for locals and visitors alike, offering a wide selection of artisan cheeses and gourmet treats in the heart of Perth’s historic downtown.
Fun Fact // In 1893, Perth made history by producing a massive wheel of cheese, weighing over 22,000 pounds! This giant cheese was showcased at the Chicago World’s Fair, putting the small town on the map. Unfortunately this cheese is no longer made today so you won’t be able to try it during your visit…
Perth Pie Company
Perth Pie Company is a delightful coffee shop and bakery that celebrates the art of traditional pie-making with a modern twist. Located in the heart of Perth, this charming shop is known for its mouthwatering selection of both sweet and savory pies, crafted on site (you can even see them preparing the pies) using locally sourced ingredients and time-honored recipe
This one might be my ultimate favorite in Perth, so you definitely need to check it out!
Perth Chocolate Works
If you have a sweet tooth, try Perth Chocolate Works. Renowned for its artisanal creations that combine creativity with high-quality ingredients. Located in the heart of Perth, this chocolate shop offers a wide array of handcrafted treats, including signature truffles, molded chocolates, and decadent bars, all made in small batches to ensure freshness and flavor.
The Fieldhouse
Tucked into a little side street, The Fieldhouse coffee house is one of my favorites. This charming café prides itself on serving high-quality, ethically sourced coffee, expertly brewed to perfection. The menu features a range of specialty drinks, including rich espressos, velvety lattes, and refreshing cold brews, alongside a selection of freshly baked pastries and light bites that make it the ideal place for a leisurely breakfast or a mid-afternoon pick-me-up.
Northfolk Café
Northfold Café is another cute coffee shop in the heart of Perth. From hearty breakfast bowls and gourmet sandwiches to delectable baked goods, every dish is crafted with care and creativity. Northfolk is particularly known for its specialty coffee, brewed from high-quality beans that are ethically sourced, ensuring that each cup is both flavorful and responsible.
Other notable mentions :
Billing & Company : A mix between a restaurant, a wine bar and a coffee shop. They make delicious food and amazing drinks.
Lida : Trendy clothing store with a selection of new and pre-loved clothes.
Flint & Honey : Beautiful clothing store with a great selection of accessories.
ECOBOU : A super cool vintage boutique with a great selection of pre-loved clothing
Perth Museum
The Perth Museum is a charming and informative cultural institution that offers visitors a glimpse into the rich history and heritage of Perth and its surrounding area. Housed in a beautifully restored Georgian stone building dating back to 1840, the museum features a diverse collection of artifacts, photographs, and exhibits that tell the story of the town’s development from its early military roots to its growth as a thriving community.
THE DETAILS
Price | There is not set fee, but admission is by donation
Info | Get all the information for your visit here
Spy Lookout in Westport
If you are willing to do the 20 minute drive to the small town of Westport, I recommend a stop at Spy Rock Lookout in Foley Mountain Conservation Area. This natural vantage point offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, including the picturesque Rideau Lakes. If you don’t like hiking, don’t worry, the lookout is less than a minute walk from the parking lot.
Travel Tip // If you are coming from Kingston, you’ll drive right through Westport so might as well make a quick stop to see the view.
THE DETAILS
Price | 8$ per car for a day pass (pay through the PayByPhone app)
Where | Find Spy Rock Lookout here
Where to Stay?
Now that I’ve shared with you what to do in Perth, what if you want to extend your day-trip and spend the night in area? If you are a nature lover Cabinscape has a few cabins in Lanark County.
Ready to experience the ultimate off-grid retreat? The Mica Cabin is one of Cabinscape’s most remote cabin to date! Nestled in the breathtaking Tay Valley, this cabin is perched on Rideau Valley Conservation land, offering you the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Imagine waking up to the tranquil sound of nature and gazing out at the lake right outside your window. And if there is one thing Cabinscape does well, it’s windows. You might be warm and cozy inside, but with all the large windows, you’ll feel like you are tucked in right between the trees! And guess what? There is no neighbors in sight. The Rhya Cabin, located just 400 meters away, is your nearest neighbor, but honestly I couldn’t even spot it! Privacy and comfort intertwine beautifully here.
Read more // The ultimate off-grid retreat with Cabinscape
THE DETAILS
Price | starting at 189$ at night (sleep up to 4 people)
Reservations | Book you cabin here
Other options // Being off-grip is not your thing? Don’t worry, you can also check out the Nevis Boutique Hotel or the Best Western Plus both in the heart of Perth!
THINGS TO DO IN PERTH AND BEYOND…
ONTARIO GUIDES | The Ultimate Fall Weekend in Calabogie; Ultimate Weekend Itinerary in Beaver Valley; The Best In and Around Niagara Falls : A Complete Guide; How to spend the Perfect Weekend in Bracebridge
ONTARIO TOP 10 | Top 11 best lookouts in Ontario
WHERE TO STAY IN ONTARIO | Tiny Stays: A Unique Stay in Prince Edward County; Spend the night with Alpacas at Haute Goat Farm
PIN THIS FOR LATER
There are places you dream about for so long, you start to wonder if they’ll ever live up to the picture you’ve painted in your mind. For me, the Amalfi Coast was one of those places.
The winding roads, lemon-scented air, and colorful cliffside villages—I’d imagined it all a hundred times. But visiting solo in March, without a car, came with a few surprises. Ferries weren’t running, buses were few and far between, and I realized seeing everything I wanted might be trickier than I thought.
So I did something I rarely do when I travel solo: I joined a guided day tour with @getyourguide . And honestly? It was the best decision. I got to explore Positano, Amalfi, Ravello—and take in the coast from all angles, without the stress of figuring it out on my own.
Swipe through for a glimpse of one of Italy’s dreamiest regions—yes, even in the off-season, the Amalfi Coast is pure magic.
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#AmalfiCoast #ItalyTravel #SoloTravel #WomenWhoTravel #Positano #Amalfi #Ravello #SpringInItaly #CoastalViews #TravelItaly #GetYourGuidePartner
Welcome to the third edition of my “Why cross the border when Ontario has this?” series—this time, we’re exploring Thousand Islands, Ontario.
Located along the St. Lawrence River, this region has been a go-to tourist destination since the 1800s. But you don’t need to leave Canada to enjoy its beauty—the Canadian side is just as magical.
Here’s the perfect Thousand Islands itinerary on the Ontario side:
🛶 Paddle through quiet island channels by kayak
🍳 Grab brunch at Lavern’s Eatery in Gananoque
🚁 Take a scenic helicopter ride for incredible views
🚢 Hop on a Thousand Islands cruise past castles and cottages
🥾 Hike to the lookout at Landon Bay for epic river views
🗼 Go up the Thousand Islands Tower for a 360° panorama
🍻 End the day with a local beer or cider tasting at Arbru Brewery or BUSL Cider
⛺ Stay overnight in a Parks Canada O’TENTik tent (some are on private islands!)
If you’re looking for things to do in Thousand Islands, this getaway has it all—nature, views, cozy stays, and local food + drinks.
➡️ What Ontario destination should I do next? Drop your suggestions below! ⬇️
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#ThousandIslandsOntario #OntarioTravel #GananoqueOntario #CanadaRoadTrip #ExploreOntario #ThingsToDoInOntario #WeekendGetaway #SoloTravelCanada #OntarioAdventure #ThousandIslandsCruise #LandonBay #ParksCanada #OntarioHikes #WhyCrossTheBorder
You know that feeling when you say “I need this” and it’s not some big luxury resort or five-step itinerary… it’s just a quiet dome in the woods, a good book, and absolutely no one asking you to circle back on that email. Yeah. That.
The Birchwood Luxury Glamping is that escape. If you’re looking for glamping near Toronto, this luxury dome stay is less than an hour away—tucked into a private forest on Scugog Island. This dreamy geodome comes with everything you need to truly unwind:
🛁 Private hot tub under the stars
🔥 Indoor fireplace
🪕 Record player
🚿 Outdoor shower (seasonal)
🍳 Fully equipped kitchenette
📺 TV + WiFi if you want it
🌿 Peace + cozy vibes guaranteed
Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend or solo escape, this dome getaway in Ontario is the definition of slow, mindful travel—without going far.
📍Scugog Island, ON
🚗 1 hour from Toronto
Dreaming of your next escape? Hit save—this one deserves a spot on your bucket list.
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#BirchwoodLuxuryGlamping #GlampingNearToronto #OntarioGlamping #UniqueStaysOntario #OntarioDomeStay #GlampingCanada #SoloGetaway #RomanticGetawayOntario #DomeLife #WeekendReset #StayHereNext
☕️ Coffee tastes better on the road, don’t you think?
There’s just something about finding that perfect little café mid-adventure — the kind with local charm, good vibes, and the best chai or oat latte you’ve had in weeks.
If you’re planning a road trip soon, here are 8 Ontario coffee shops worth the detour (or the destination!)
✨ Coffee Shops in Ontario featured in this post:
1. Milly’s Market — Port Hope
2. Juniper Café — Kingston
3. The Wellness Refinery — Sauble Beach
4. Laverne’s Eatery — Gananoque
5. Beacon Bike + Brew — Picton
6. Oh-El-La Café — Calabogie
7. Perth Pie Co — Perth
8. Creekside Café — Wellington
☕️🧡 Calling all coffee (and chai latte) lovers—like, save, and share this post with your favourite road trip buddy!
👇 And tell me in the comments: What’s your favourite coffee shop in Ontario? I’m always looking for new spots to try.
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#OntarioCoffeeShops #BestCoffeeShopsOntario #OntarioCafeGuide #CoffeeLoversCanada #RoadTripOntario #ExploreOntario #OntarioFoodie #CafeHoppingOntario #SupportLocalCafes #ChaiLatteLovers #OntarioRoadTrips #WeekendGetawaysOntario
🚨 GIVEAWAY TIME! 🚨
Welcome to Clarendon Station—a beautifully restored 19th-century train station along the K&P Trail, now reimagined as a one-of-a-kind Airbnb near Sharbot Lake. 🚂✨
Surrounded by nature and full of charm, this unique stay is perfect for anyone craving a peaceful escape, a cozy weekend in, or a little off-the-beaten-path adventure.
And guess what? You could win a 2-night stay for two at this dreamy spot! 🎉
Here’s how to enter:
1️⃣ Follow @msurlaroute & @clarendonstation
2️⃣ Like + save this post
3️⃣ Tag the person you’d bring with you—one tag per comment = one entry
4️⃣ Share this post to your stories and tag us both for a bonus entry!
🗓️ Giveaway ends Monday, March 31 at 11:59 PM EST
📢 Winner will be announced in this caption on April 1st!
📍Prize is valid for a 2-night stay for 2 guests, with no fixed redemption date (subject to availability—booking to be arranged directly with @clarendonstation).
Ready to unwind somewhere unique and unforgettable? Let the tagging begin! 💫
🇫🇷 La version française de ce texte se trouve dans les commentaires
#ClarendonStation #OntarioGetaways #AirbnbCanada #SharbotLake #UniqueStaysOntario #KandPTrail #HeritageStay #NatureEscape #SlowTravel #MsurlarouteGiveaway #OntarioTravel #WeekendGetawayCanada
