Things To Do In Smiths Falls

Smiths Falls is the Heart of the Rideau Canal and your destination to explore this wonder of 19th Century technology, commerce, and recreation. Travel the canal by boat, canoe or kayak and experience the historic lock system operated by Parks Canada.

Originally built in 1912 as a station on the Canadian Northern Ontario Railway, the museum has been restored to working order, and features some amazing examples of rolling stock, including the 1899 Dining Car & the 1913 Dental Car. The museum also offer a one-of-a-kind Overnight in a Caboose Air BnB stay, as well.

Built as the private residence of Joseph Bates in 1861, the Smiths Falls Heritage House Museum serves as a community museum and historic house. The museum features changing displays of Smiths Falls artifacts and history, travelling exhibits and art shows.

The Ottawa Valley Recreational Trail is a multi-use corridor stretching from near Smiths Falls to just shy of Mattawa. The Cataraqui Trail is a point-to-point trail with a trailhead just off Lombard Street, between Leisure Days RV Centre and Smiths Falls Kia, and is rated as moderate. The trails are popular with hikers, cyclists, ATV riders, and snowmobiles. 

Erected in 1912-1913 to carry the Canadian Northern Railway main line across the canal, The Scherzer Rolling Lift bascule bridge is an outstanding early example of movable bridges and was renowned for its ease and speed of operation. Today it stands permanently raised - a favourite photo-op for locals and tourists alike.

The Swale is a Class 1 wetland and a popular, scenic paddling route on the Rideau Canal, situated just north of the Detached Lockstation. Created by the construction of dams along the Rideau Canal, it offers a calm, natural oasis for kayaking, canoeing, and birdwatching, featuring a picturesque view of the historic bascule bridge. 

Constructed in 1913, the Carnegie Library and holds the distinction of being the first to be visited by Andrew Carnegie, the Scottish-American industrialist and philanthropist who funded the construction. Town Square, occupying space that was once Daniel Street, was opened in 2023 and features a bandstand, seating and pollinator gardens.

Constructed in 1887, The Station Theatre was converted into a permanent home for community theatre and officially opened in 2010. It is the home of the Smiths Falls Community Theatre group, and hosts film screenings, and numerous live music, comedy, and magic shows throughout the year.

Featuring numerous restaurants, shops, an arcade and a music club, Russell Street East is a destination for shopping and entertainment for tourists and locals alike. The street also features landmarks including the Old Post Office and the former Canadian Bank of Commerce.

Home to the Russell Street Parkette and the historic Davidson Courtyard, this street is a destination for shopping, dining, health & wellness, and also plays host to many community events throughout the year, like The Big Thrift and The Art Walk.

Beckwith Street, also known as main street, shines all summer long with some of the most gorgeous flower displays in Lanark County. The street features numerous historical landmarks, like Hotel Rideau, the Clark Building, Washburn Block and Fort Hemlock. 

Constructed in 1841, the Lockmaster's House was built to be a defensible stronghold, in the event of an attack from the US, following the War of 1812. The building is a Recognized Federal Heritage Building, and today hosts the main offices of Le Boat, who welcome tourists to the Rideau Canal from all over the world.

Victoria Park, located along the southern banks of the Rideau Canal, was opened in 1897 to honour the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Victoria. Featuring gardens and recreational spaces for families, the park is home to the Victoria Park Visitor Centre & Marina.

Situated along the northern banks of the Rideau Canal, alongside Confederation Drive, Centennial Park was constructed in 1967 to celebrate the Centennial of Confederation. Featuring fountains, a beautiful green space and a public beach, the park is an oasis of calm steps from downtown. 

Located in Centennial Park, Murphy Park Beach offers a shallow wading area with a sandy beach, and a deeper area for older swimmers. It is also the location of Duck & Turtle Islands, which contain the Healing Circle and host the annual Spirit of the Drum Pow Wow. 

The Island is situated between the original flight of locks and the current navigation channel, and is accessed from Combined Lock Station by going under the Beckwith Street bridge. This hidden gem is a peaceful sanctuary and an ideal spot for a picnic by the water.

Wood’s Mill Complex was a key part of the industrial development of the Smiths Falls. The complex sits on Ward’s Island adjacent to the waste weir channel of the Rideau Waterway. The East Mill, which sits on Beckwith Street, was once home to the Rideau Canal Museum, and still contains the offices of Parks Canada.

Lower Reach Park is a recreational hub, having sports fields and courts, ball diamonds, docks, play structures, a splash pad and the Kinsmen Pavilion. Sitting adjacent the Rideau Canal, the park is a popular destination for walkers, families, and for numerous community events, including Canada Day.