Things To Do
in Smiths Falls
Smiths Falls is a charming Ontario town perched along the Rideau Canal with a rich industrial heritage and a welcoming downtown. It blends historic architecture, museums, and riverfront scenery into a relaxed, walkable escape. Visitors can sample farm-to-table cuisine, explore a renowned railway museum, and easily access outdoor trails along the canal and nearby parks.
Located a comfortable drive from Ottawa and Kingston, it serves as a serene base for regional exploration.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring freshly brewed coffee and delicious pastries. Afterward, take a stroll through the charming streets of downtown Smiths Falls, where you can admire the historic architecture and vibrant storefronts. Don’t forget to stop by the Smiths Falls Heritage Centre to learn about the town’s rich history.
In the afternoon, visit the Rideau Canal Visitor Centre, where you can explore exhibits about the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy a scenic walk along the canal, watching boats navigate through the locks and perhaps even catch a glimpse of some local wildlife. For lunch, indulge in a hearty meal at a nearby restaurant that features locally sourced ingredients.
As the sun sets, head to the nearby park for a relaxing evening picnic, complete with snacks and drinks. Afterward, consider catching a live performance at the Station Theatre, where local talent often showcases their skills. Wrap up your day with a leisurely walk along the waterfront, taking in the serene views under the stars.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation or a nearby diner before gearing up for a day on the water. Rent a kayak or canoe to paddle along the stunning Rideau Canal, immersing yourself in the natural beauty that surrounds you. As you glide through the calm waters, keep an eye out for the diverse birdlife that inhabits the area.
After a morning of paddling, take a break for lunch at a picturesque picnic spot along the canal. In the afternoon, continue your water adventure by exploring some of the canal’s hidden gems, such as small islands and tranquil bays. If you're feeling adventurous, consider taking a guided tour to learn more about the local ecology and history.
As evening approaches, return to shore and unwind with a visit to a local brewery or pub for a refreshing craft beer. Enjoy dinner at a waterfront restaurant, where you can sample regional specialties while watching the sunset over the canal. End your day with a leisurely stroll along the water, breathing in the fresh evening air.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | CAD 12-18 |
| 🧺Groceries per week | CAD 60-120 |
| 🏠Rent for 1-bedroom apartment (city center) | CAD 1000-1400 |
| 🚗Gasoline per liter | CAD 1.40-1.90 |
| 💡Internet per month | CAD 50-100 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming small-town vibe with a friendly community
- Excellent access to the Rideau Canal and outdoor activities
- Compact, walkable downtown with historic architecture
- Strong farm-to-table options and local markets
- Limited nightlife and high-end dining compared to larger cities
- Some services and attractions are driveway-accessible rather than urban
- Weather can be variable; summer storms and winter snows are common
- Longer drives required to reach larger urban centers for specialized services
Places to Visit in Smiths Falls
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic canal locks and historic structures provide dynamic water, reflections, and industrial‑heritage photography opportunities.
A picturesque view of the falls and river greenery, especially striking at sunrise or golden hour.
Historic locomotives and trackside exteriors offer classic transportation photography with a town‑and‑railway vibe.
Well-preserved 19th‑century storefronts and brickwork make for charming architectural photography.
Food in Smiths Falls
Smiths Falls Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Ontario dessert featuring flaky pastry and a gooey maple-sugared filling, widely available at bakeries and markets.
Must-Try!
Pan-seared salmon finished with a maple glaze, commonly found in local bistros near the canal.
Hearty beef and vegetable pie topped with creamy mashed potatoes, a comforting staple at many local pubs.
Seasonal roasted vegetables paired with regional cheese for a cozy, vegetarian-friendly option.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market with fresh produce, baked goods, maple products, honey, preserves, and occasional prepared foods on Saturdays.
Seasonal stalls along the canal corridor offering street-food bites and snacks during warm months.
Small vendors selling maple products, cheeses, preserves, and baked treats found in market settings.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greetings are polite; use phrases like hello and please. Keep voice levels moderate in indoor spaces and on public transit.
Queue in an orderly fashion; be patient and let others complete transactions before moving ahead.
Safety
Tipping in Smiths Falls
Ensure a smooth experience
In Canada, a tip of 15–20% at restaurants is customary if service is satisfactory. For bars and counter service, rounding up or small tips are common.
Most shops accept cash, debit, and major credit cards; contactless payments are widespread; some smaller venues may have limited cash options.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days emerge after late snow; expect showers and rapidly blooming trees along the canal, ideal for city walks and early market visits.
Warm, long days with outdoor events and canal activity; stay hydrated, wear sun protection, and enjoy outdoor dining and free concerts.
Colorful foliage lines the Rideau Canal and surrounding parks; bring a camera for vibrant scenery and cooler, comfortable hiking weather.
Snowy landscapes and potential ice on the canal; indoor attractions stay busy, and nearby parks offer scenic snowshoeing and layered outfits.
Smiths Falls at Night
Hiking in Smiths Falls
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic sections along the canal corridor ideal for day hikes and nature photography.
Cedar- and pine-lined trails with lake views and varied difficulty just outside Smiths Falls.
Short, accessible trails offering riverfront viewpoints and fall photography opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Smiths Falls by plane.
Major international airport about 85-100 km away; frequent flights and good regional connections.
Smaller regional airport about 60-70 km away with domestic options and limited international flights.
Cross-border option about 150-200 km away; useful for certain U.S. connections and travel planning.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of local families and commuters who enjoy the riverfront and community events.
Older residents drawn to the town’s tranquility and slower pace of life.
Individuals attracted to a smaller community with access to nearby cities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular winter sport at community rinks and local leagues.
Seasonal sport with local clubs and community events during colder months.
Family-friendly summer leagues and parks provide casual play.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Smiths Falls.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most eateries offer vegetarian options such as salads, veggie burgers, soups, and pasta; ask for customization and avoid cross-contamination by sharing ingredients.