Discover the best things to do in Smiths Falls, Ontario. Explore canals, museums, local coffee shops, and scenic spots. Everything you need to know for the perfect day trip to Smiths Falls.
I’ve lived in Ontario for over ten years… and somehow, not one person ever told me how cute Smiths Falls is. And honestly? I was missing out.
Conveniently located between Ottawa and Kingston, Smiths Falls makes the perfect day trip, whether you’re road tripping through Eastern Ontario or just looking for a charming town to explore for the afternoon. With its scenic spot along the Rideau Canal, a walkable downtown, fascinating railway history, and cozy local cafés, it’s the kind of place that feels both laid-back and full of little surprises.
If you’re wondering what to do in Smiths Falls for a few hours or a full day, here’s how to make the most of your visit.
Don’t forget to check out all of my Ontario blog posts to make the most of your adventures!
Things to Do in Smiths Falls on a Day Trip
Where Is Smiths Falls?
Smiths Falls is a small town in Eastern Ontario, nestled between Ottawa and Kingston. It’s about a 1-hour drive from Ottawa and just under 1.5 hours from Kingston, making it a perfect stop on a weekend road trip or an easy day trip from either city.
The town sits along the Rideau Canal – a historic waterway that stretches from Ottawa to Lake Ontario – which gives Smiths Falls its peaceful, waterfront vibe and rich history. Despite its small size, the town has a lot going on: local shops, outdoor activities, cozy cafés, and one of the most unique train museums in the province.
1. Walk Along (or picnic by!) the Rideau Canal
Start your day with a slow stroll along the Rideau Canal, right in the heart of Smiths Falls. It’s peaceful, picturesque, and packed with history, it’s actually a UNESCO World Heritage Site! You can walk by the Smiths Falls Combined Locks, watch boats pass through, and enjoy the classic Ontario summer scenery: water, wildflowers, and the occasional heron gliding by.
There are benches, picnic spots, and grassy areas all along the path—perfect for soaking it all in or snapping a few photos. It’s the kind of simple pleasure that makes small-town day trips so special.
2. Visit the Railway Museum of Eastern Ontario
This spot totally surprised me. The Railway Museum of Eastern Ontario is set in a beautifully preserved 1912 Canadian Northern Railway station, and if you love heritage buildings, vintage trains, or quirky local history, it’s a must.
You can actually climb into the old passenger cars, cabooses, and locomotives, and walk through restored interiors that feel frozen in time. There’s also a small collection of artifacts, stories about the people who worked the rails, and even the original telegraph room still intact.
THE DETAILS
Price | 10$ for adults, 8$ for seniors, 6$ for children from 5 to 12, and free for children under 4.
Website | You can check their website here.
Bonus: Spend the Night in a Vintage Caboose
Yes, you can actually sleep in a caboose in Smiths Fall, and it’s just as cool as it sounds.
At the Railway Museum of Eastern Ontario, you can book an overnight stay in a restored CN caboose, complete with bunks, vintage charm, and access to the museum grounds after hours. It’s cozy, nostalgic, and totally one-of-a-kind. Perfect for a quirky weekend getaway or a fun road trip stop that’ll definitely spark some stories.
The caboose sleeps up to five people, and while it’s rustic (think cabin vibes), it’s clean, comfy, and seriously memorable. Plus, who doesn’t want to say they’ve slept in a train car?
THE DETAILS
Price | starts at 187$ per night.
Reservation | Book your stay here.
3. Kayak or Paddleboard Through the Swale
One of the best ways to experience Smiths Falls is from the water, specifically, the peaceful stretch known as The Swale. This calm section of the Rideau Canal winds right through town and is perfect for kayaking or paddleboarding, even if you’re a beginner. I rented my kayak from Pedal & Paddle, a super friendly local shop right in Smiths Falls. They have everything you need to get out on the water quickly, including life jackets and dry bags.
As you paddle, you’ll pass under the town’s iconic bascule bridge, a historic lift bridge built in 1912 that was once a vital crossing point for trains. Though it’s no longer in operation, it’s a striking piece of local history and a fun landmark to glide beneath while you float by.
4. Grab Coffee at a Local Café
If you’re like me and can’t not check out the local coffee scene, Smiths Falls has a couple of gems worth detouring for.
The Lighthouse Coffee is a bright, modern space that totally surprised me. Great coffee, warm service, and a few cozy corners that make you want to slow down and stay a while. They’ve also got a solid food menu if you’re after more than just a latte.
Then there’s C’est Tout Bakery, part café, part bakery, part restaurant, and 100% charming. It’s the kind of spot where everything smells amazing the second you walk in, and where the pastry case will absolutely test your self-control. I grabbed a coffee and something sweet to go and honestly debated going back for seconds.
Both are within walking distance of the canal and downtown, making them ideal for a mid-morning break or an afternoon treat.
5. Wander Through Downtown Smiths Falls
Downtown Smiths Falls might be small, but it’s packed with personality, and it’s incredibly walkable, which makes exploring it feel easy and relaxed.
You’ll find a mix of boutiques, antique shops, bookstores, and local makers, all nestled along tree-lined streets. And if you love thrifting as much as I do, you’re in luck, Smiths Falls has a surprising number of second-hand and vintage shops, and the city even put together a Thrift & Vintage Trail map to help you find them all. (A+ to whoever thought of that!)
As you stroll through the downtown, don’t miss the massive train mural by artist Dom Laporte, you’ll spot it on the side of one of the buildings. It features Locomotive 2037 pulling a long freight train, and it’s a tribute to the town’s deep connection to railway history. The first train arrived in Smiths Falls back in 1859 on the old Brockville & Ottawa line, which later became part of the CPR network. A few years after that, the Canadian Northern line came to town, cementing Smiths Falls as a railway hub. So this is a colourful homage to Smiths Falls history.
It’s the kind of town where art, history, and everyday charm all live side-by-side, and it makes just walking around genuinely fun.
6. Grab a Sandwich at The Pickled Pig
By the time you’ve wandered the canal and downtown core, you’ll definitely be ready for a bite, and trust me, The Pickled Pig is the spot for lunch in Smiths Falls.
This locally-loved gourmet deli serves up made-from-scratch sandwiches, soups, and salads using seasonal ingredients and creative flavour combos. I had a sandwich that was so good I nearly went back for another (zero regrets if you do!). Their daily specials change often, and there’s always something a little unexpected on the board—in the best way.
They also sell locally sourced pantry items, cheeses, and snacks, so it’s the kind of place where you can grab lunch and stock up for your next road trip snack break.
What to Do Nearby
If you’ve got a little more time or want to turn your Smiths Falls day trip into a mini getaway, you’re in the perfect spot to explore more of Eastern Ontario.
Just 30 minutes down the road, you’ll find Perth, Ontario, a historic town known for its beautiful stone buildings, scenic parks, cozy cafés, and local food scene. It makes for an easy add-on if you’re road tripping through the region or planning a full weekend.
Read more // Check out my full guide to spending a day in Perth, Ontario
Where to Stay Near Smiths Falls
I did this as a day trip, but honestly? I wouldn’t blame you for wanting to stretch it into a full weekend. And while there aren’t tons of boutique stays right in town, there are a couple of unique places nearby that I’ve stayed at and absolutely loved.
Sleep in a Historic Train Station : Clarendon Station
To stay on theme with Smiths Falls’ railway history, you can book a night in an old train station, yes, really. Located about an hour away in Clarendon Station, this restored historic building turned Airbnb is full of vintage charm, rustic details, and cozy nooks that make you feel like you’ve stepped into another time. It’s a dream for photographers, history lovers, and anyone looking for a unique getaway.
Read more // Read about my stay at the Clarendon Station Airbnb here
Stay Off-Grid in a Tiny Cabin : Cabinscape (Near Perth)
If you’re craving something more remote, Cabinscape has several off-grid cabins just outside Perth (about 30 minutes from Smiths Falls). I stayed in one of their tiny cabins tucked into the forest, and it was the perfect blend of cozy and adventurous. Think: lake views, fire pits, hiking trails, and total peace and quiet. It’s ideal if you want to pair your day in town with a night under the stars.
Read more // Check out my Cabinscape review here
Final Thoughts : Things to do in Smiths Falls
Smiths Falls totally caught me off guard in the best way. For a town I’d never really heard much about, it delivered on charm, history, great coffee, and a relaxing day by the water, everything I love in a small-town adventure.
It’s proof that you don’t always have to drive hours into the wilderness or plan a full weekend to feel like you’ve stepped into something new. Sometimes the most unexpected places end up being exactly what you needed.
So if you’re looking for a laid-back day trip between Kingston and Ottawa – or a new stop to add to your next Ontario road trip- don’t skip Smiths Falls. Trust me, it’s worth the detour.
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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Kingston is seriously slept on when it comes to spa experiences and I’m on a mission to try them all. 🧖♀️
I’ve done three so far and every single one has been worth it.
1) The scalp massage and facial at @labellakingston is one of those treatments you didn’t know you needed until you try it. I walked out feeling completely the most relaxed I felt in a long time.
2) The underground bathhouse at the @belvederekingston is stunning, a full spa cycle in this gorgeous underground space that feels like you’ve been transported somewhere in Europe.
3) And @stokedsaunaco behind The Frontenac Club is my go-to for a sauna and cold plunge session.
I also have @glowspakingston on my list for their spa cycle and I have a feeling it’s going to be just as good. Will report back once I try it! 👀
Save this for your next Kingston trip and treat yourself, you deserve it. 🌿
Which one would you try first? Drop it below 👇
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#Kingston #KingstonOntario #KingstonSpa #OntarioTravel #ExploreOntario
Kananaskis doesn’t get nearly enough credit and this loop is proof that you don’t need to go to Banff to have the most incredible Alberta experience. 🏔️
And Ontario friends, if you’ve ever seen cheap flights to Calgary and scrolled past them, I need you to stop doing that. Kananaskis is only an hour from the airport and it is so worth the long weekend trip. I did this whole scenic loop, waterfall hikes, turquoise lakes, the most beautiful drive in Canada that nobody talks about, a coffee stop in Canmore, and I based myself at Skyridge Glamping in the Skyglass the whole time. Waking up to floor-to-ceiling mountain views every morning never got old.
Swipe through for every stop with practical info on timing, difficulty and what to expect. Save this for your next long weekend escape. 🏔️
Have you ever done a spontaneous long weekend trip out west, or is it still on the list? 👇
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#Kananaskis #KananaskisCountry #AlbertaTravel #VisitAlberta #CanadianRockies
The water really is that blue. No filter, no exaggeration… Bruce Peninsula just hits different in the summer and this reel is proof. 🩵
If you haven’t been yet, this is your sign. I’m talking the Grotto, Tobermory, Flowerpot Island, Lion’s Head Lookout, all the classics. And I stayed at The Grotto Getaway which is honestly the perfect base camp for the whole trip. Glamping tents right in the middle of it all.
Should I share a full Bruce Peninsula weekend itinerary you can easily do this Summer? Let me know in the comment. ☀️
Have you been to Bruce Peninsula before? Drop your favourite spot below 👇
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#BrucePeninsula #OntarioTravel #ExploreOntario #TheGrotto Tobermory
You’re dreaming of Caribbean… but staying in Ontario this summer? Fear not, I’ve got you! 🌊☀️
Here are 10 Ontario beaches that actually give tropical vibes 👀
Clear water, soft sand, unreal colours… the kind of places that make you do a double take and question where you are.
I also made sure to include at least one beach from every Great Lake, so no matter where you are in the province, there’s a spot you can add to your list.
This is a mix of my personal favourites and a few places that genuinely surprised me when I saw them in real life. Some are perfect for a full beach day, others are more low-key, but all of them have that “this doesn’t feel like Ontario” energy.
And yes… I know there are some iconic Georgian Bay beaches missing 😅 I haven’t explored as many of them as I’d like (yet), but they’re very high on my list for this summer.
Save this for later + tell me: what’s your favorite Ontario beach? ☀️
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#ontariobeaches #ontariosummer #exploreontario #ontariotravel
If you only plan one weekend trip in Ontario this summer… make it this one.
This is one of those weekends that just works every single time.
It’s close, easy to plan, and gives you a bit of everything : a cute city moment, time on the water, a good meal, and at least one view that makes you stop for a second.
If you’re deciding between Kingston and the Thousand Islands, don’t. Do both. They’re so close that it actually feels like two completely different trips in one weekend.
A couple things I’d keep in mind if you’re planning it:
– book the kayak or cruise ahead of time in the summer (they fill up fast)
– go for sunrise or sunset views if you can, that’s when it really hits
– and don’t try to do everything… this is one of those trips that’s better when it feels a little slow
I’d personally do this over 3 days if you can, but it still works as a 2-day reset if that’s all you have.
Save this for later , this is such an easy summer win ☀️
Oh and tell me, if you had to pick one: kayak or cruise?
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#1000islands #1000islandsdaytrip #thousandislands #exploreontario #ontariotravel
