One Fun Thing

For day trippers and those planning a staycation, Kawartha Lakes is the place to be. With so many things to do, it may be impossible to pick just one fun thing to do in each of our communities – and yet we tried, choosing a mix of natural areas and small businesses. We fully acknowledge there’s so many more we could have chosen – and we’d love to hear your choices.

Pontypool

Green spaces abound in Kawartha Lakes for those looking to escape into nature, including several areas managed by Kawartha Conservation.
Fleetwood Creek Natural Area on Ballyduff Road, east of Highway 35, is located within the Oak Ridges Moraine. Designated as “provincially significant,” the area features steep valleys and many cold-water streams. An observation platform on the moderately challenging Valley Trail makes a perfect place for a picnic while taking in the view.

Omemee

Windy Ridge Conservation Area, on Mount Horeb Road offers more than a panoramic view from the top of the area’s tallest ridge. By downloading a free app, visitors can follow the 11 stations of the Talking Forest loop trail to listen to historical tales and fun facts. Exercise your brain as well as your body on the word scramble course, where 25-word cookies hidden along the trail help visitors to fill in the blanks. Visit the Conservation’s website for details before starting this adventure.

Lindsay

For something a little more urban, try making Logie Park – the home of Lindsay’s Lilac Gardens – a destination by road, water or trail. One of the largest park redevelopments in Kawartha Lakes, it includes a splash pad, zip line, climbing structure and play sand for kids of all ages. The asphalt pathway that meanders through the park connects to the Kawartha Trans Canada Trail.

Rosedale

When looking for something fun by the water try turning off Highway 35 on Trent Canal Road and explore the hamlet of Rosedale. Follow alongside the man-made cut out that connects Cameron and Balsam Lakes to Lock 35 of the Trent Severn Waterway, a scenic stretch by car or foot where the homes have lots of curbside appeal. A secluded hideaway, this lock draws less land traffic during the summer, making it a quiet place for a picnic or to just take in the view of Cameron Lake.

Bolsover

For something with a little more drama, continue along the Trent Severn Waterway to the picturesque Lock 37. One of the deepest fully manual lock stations on the waterway, the neighboring dam features an approximately 22-foot waterfall.

Bethany

Inspiration can be found at Williams Design Studio in downtown Bethany, where artists Bev and Paul Williams have been sharing their creative talents for over 36 years. There’s something to fit everyone’s tastes at this studio and gallery from garden art to leather sculpture. Wander through their ‘secret’ backyard garden to see custom designed brass and copper fountains.

Norland

When looking for a gem of a place to dine try visiting The Riverside Inn and Restaurant. Housed in a charming 100-year-old building at Highways 35 and 503, the newest owners are continuing the restaurant’s tradition of comfort food in a comfortable space. Between the great tastes, the generous portions and the friendly service, it is best to make a reservation to avoid disappointment.

Woodville

As a combination of restaurant and marketplace, The Lokal on King Street is a dream come true for its owners. The restaurant offers up a menu of fresh home-style family favorites while the attached market makes for a one-stop-shop of goods by local artisans. Local vendors at The Lokal include Angelic Scents, Cherished Tapestries, Flowers on King, and JC Jewellery, among others.

Kirkfield

Visitors will discover sweet delights “made with love” at Becky Jo’s Vovo Country Fried Dough on Portage Road. Described as being akin to carnival style mini donoughts – only better, these Portuguese handcrafted fried dough creations combine high-quality ingredients with tradition and imagination. And while travelling the Portage Road, don’t forget to drop by the Kirkfield and District Historical Society Museum.

Little Britain

Buttertarts ‘N More is celebrating 25 years of sweet success this year, and they are working hard to put a smile on every customer’s face. Their tarts have tempted taste buds from coast to coast and as far away as Germany and England. With up to nine different varieties of buttertarts, their kitchen turns out as many as 300 trays each week to keep up with demand during the busy season. There’s plenty more baked goods, though, and smelling is believing when you open their door for the first time.

Sebright

On Monck Road travellers will find the Quaker Oaks Store, less formally know as “The Betty Boop Store.” This little building packed full of treasures has been described as a heavenly experience with an eclectic selection of trinkets for sale. The friendly staff take pride in serving some of the best freshly baked goods, pickles and preserves in the area.

Janetville

The Primrose Hill Manor is locally known as the Janetville Mansion. Those with an interest in history or architecture can book a tour to hear the story of its past while viewing this landmark home’s beautifully preserved woodwork, mouldings and sweeping arches. Operating as a doctor’s house originally, this 1880 heritage-protected landmark home is steeped rich in history, boasting sweeping arches, gorgeous mouldings and beautifully preserved woodwork. Enjoy refreshments served in the manor’s tearoom and, weather permitting, stroll the landscaped grounds.

Bobcaygeon

Located on what was once a thriving family farm, Kawartha Settler’s Village on Dunn Street preserves the stories of the area’s first settlers. Visitors can stroll through their collection of more than 20 historic homes and buildings, from a general store to a schoolhouse. Or imagine the heat from the blacksmith forge or the loneliness of life in a trapper’s cabin. Be sure to check out the list of upcoming events on their website.

Kinmount

The Austin Sawmill Heritage Park along the Burnt River has been the site of many a sawmill since the 1890s. Today, the park hosts an old water wheel and displays that illustrate the milling processes used in the original mill. It’s a picturesque walk along the river, boasting a historical Icelandic-inspired statue, a park for the kids, and picnic tables for the perfect summer lunch.

Argyle

Plan to take some time to browse when stopping at Merry Mac’s Antique Store at Highway 46 and Glenarm Road. Housed in the former Mitchell Blacksmith Shop, the knowledgeable owners have curated a wide assortment of collectables and vintage finds to help make any space truly unique. Just a stone’s throw away is the town’s farmer’s market which occupies another local landmark, the old Royal Hotel.

Sturgeon Point

It’s worth the drive to stroll the narrow streets of this old cottage community and admire the lovely rustic architecture. While in the area, don’t forget to see the octagonal Union Church on Irene Avenue. Constructed from Georgia pine timbers, this church remains independent, welcoming worshipers of all faiths and acting as a place for community gatherings.

Downeyville

The Downeyville Hall on St. Lukes Road has been a lively community hub for the surrounding area since 1919. Follow them on Facebook to take part in one of the many events hosted here, from trivia nights to fashion shows and, of course, the Downeyville Jamboree.

Fenelon Falls

One of the driving forces behind this town’s community spirit is the Barn and Bunkie on Lindsay Street. A place of fun and friendship, the staff go out of their way to connect with their customers and satisfy their decorating desires both online and in person. Across the parking lot, owned by the same folks, The White Cottage Café puts a creative spin on a delectable range of menu items. Throughout the year these businesses host markets to help support the artists, crafters and local businesses.

Coboconk

To satisfy a need for speed, stop by Coboconk Go Karts and Mini Putt on Highway 35. The owners are dedicated to their goal of being extraordinary and leaving visitors with the feeling they have had one of the best days ever. From their retro “candy shoppe” to an imaginative list of food, drinks and sweet delights, there is something here for everyone to enjoy. They have even given the mini putt range a much-needed facelift.

Now it’s your turn. Let us know what fun thing you like to do in Kawartha Lakes!