Things To Do
in Lindsay
Lindsay is a small, friendly town tucked along the Otonabee River in the Kawartha Lakes region of Ontario. It features a compact, walkable downtown with brick storefronts, local galleries, and a relaxed pace. The town serves as a gateway to picturesque waterways, parks, and nearby lakes that invite outdoor exploration.
With a strong sense of community and seasonal events, Lindsay offers a charming mix of heritage and outdoor recreation.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Lindsay and check into your cozy accommodations. Take a leisurely stroll around the scenic downtown area to get a feel for the local vibe. Enjoy breakfast at a quaint café featuring homemade pastries and artisan coffee.
Visit the Lindsay Gallery to immerse yourself in local art and culture. Afterward, explore the Ontario's Museum of History, where you'll learn about the area's rich past. Grab lunch at a local pub that serves hearty meals with a twist.
Dine at a charming restaurant along the Scugog River, enjoying views of the water as the sun sets. Afterward, take a relaxing evening walk along the riverbank, watching the stars begin to twinkle. Wind down with a nightcap at a local bar, soaking in the friendly atmosphere.
Start your day by visiting the Lindsay Farmers' Market, where you can sample fresh produce and handmade goods. Engage with local vendors and learn about their farming practices. Don’t forget to pick up some delicious snacks for later!
Head to the nearby Victoria Rail Trail for an afternoon of hiking or biking, enjoying the beautiful fall foliage and diverse wildlife. Take a packed lunch to enjoy along the trail, surrounded by nature's tranquility. Afterward, stop by a local winery for tastings of regional wines.
Explore Lindsay's vibrant theater scene by catching a live performance at the Academy Theatre. Enjoy dinner at a nearby bistro offering live music, adding to the evening ambiance. Finish the night with dessert at a popular ice cream parlor known for its unique flavors.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $2-4 |
| 🍽️Mid-range dinner for two | $40-70 |
| 🚗Gasoline (per liter) | $1.60-1.90/L |
| 🛒Groceries (weekly) | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming small-town atmosphere with easy access to nature
- Walkable downtown and friendly local community
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Limited public transit options within town limits
Places to Visit in Lindsay
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic riverside walk with reflections on calm mornings and golden hour lighting over the water, ideal for landscape and street photography.
Historic brick storefronts and charming alleyways provide character-filled streetscapes and architectural shots.
Piers, riverbanks, and treed embankments offer diverse angles for nature and cityscape photography.
Food in Lindsay
Lindsay Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Ontario dessert featuring a flaky pastry shell filled with a sweet, butter-based custard. Look for them at local bakeries and markets.
Must-Try!
Hearty, comfort-food pie made with locally sourced beef and vegetables; a common option at family-run cafés and diners in downtown Lindsay.
A creamy chowder made with locally sourced freshwater fish when available, often featured in seasonal menus near waterfront areas.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A seasonal hub for locally grown produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts, typically active on market days in the downtown area.
Casual street-food options and small-town snack stalls that appear around community events and summer weekends.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Arrive on time for appointments and be courteous with greetings; a simple 'please' and 'thank you' go a long way.
Respect orderly lines at shops and markets; avoid cutting in and wait your turn.
Safety
Tipping in Lindsay
Ensure a smooth experience
In Canada, tips of 15-20% at restaurants are customary if service is satisfactory. You may tip smaller amounts at cafes or casual spots and round up at some cash-only vendors.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted. Cash is useful for markets and small shops; some vendors may accept mobile payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with fresh greenery; expect occasional rain. Great for migratory birds and early blooms in local parks.
Warm to hot days with opportunities for outdoor markets, river activities, and long daylight hours; bring water and sun protection.
Vibrant fall foliage and cooler temperatures; ideal for scenic drives, hiking, and photography of autumn colors.
Cold, with possible snow. Winter walks, seasonal events, and cozy cafes are common; dress warmly and be prepared for icy conditions.
Lindsay at Night
Hiking in Lindsay
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Riverside trail offering scenic views and easy-to-moderate terrain suitable for day hikes and photography.
Forest and shoreline trails with opportunities for wildlife viewing and longer hikes in a protected area.
Waterfront trail with lookout points and picturesque cascades in the broader Kawartha Lakes region.
Airports
How to reach Lindsay by plane.
Regional airport serving domestic flights and general aviation; about a short drive from Lindsay with limited commercial service.
Major international hub offering extensive connections; about a 1.5-2 hour drive (plus traffic) from Lindsay for longer trips.
Downtown Toronto airport with short-haul connections; accessible via road and transit for city-to-city travel from Lindsay.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families settle in Lindsay for a safe, friendly environment with good schools and parks.
A portion of residents are retirees drawn to the quiet pace and community activities.
Proximity to Peterborough and Kawartha Lakes attracts students and young workers seeking a smaller-town lifestyle.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A staple winter sport in Canada; local leagues and community rinks are common in the region.
Enjoy water-based recreation on nearby rivers and lakes in the Kawartha Lakes area.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Lindsay.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Lindsay spots offer meat-free options like veggie sandwiches, salads, and seasonal soups. Ask about egg, dairy, or gluten-free adaptations and look for fresh market ingredients.