Perth is well known as one of Ontario’s prettiest towns and once you visit you’ll know exactly why. From stunning Victorian architecture and natural beauty, this picturesque town is sure to catch your heart from the sights but also the community feel. I loved seeing the collaboration and the small-town feel while still having plenty to keep you busy. There are more than 100 designated heritage buildings and over 70 boutique shops, restaurants, specialty stores, and more to explore. Make sure to add this spot to your list of day trips or stay a bit longer and turn it into a road trip. Here are all the things to do in Perth while you’re there:
Christmas in Perth
Some of my favourite trips to Perth have been during the Christmas season! I have fond memories of a weekend away my friend and I did as one of our Christmas traditions. We loved exploring the town by and shopping by day and cozy dinners and lights by night.
The town feels like you’ve stepped into a Hallmark movie and it also hosts some wonderful Christmas events. Here’s a full list of Chrisrtmas events. Plan your visit around one of these events for some extra festive fun. I’d recommend staying overnight so you can enjoy an event and time to explore all the shops and resturants. Event highlights include:
- Once Upon a Christmas (November 22) – see the town full of Christmas cheer from 10am-4pm with a Mistletoe Vendor Market, Mr. and Mrs Claus, hot chocolate and smores by a bonfire and much moer festive fun
- Festival of Light – see Crystal Palace transformed with unique and beautifully decorated Christmas trees. You can see them outside the Palace every evrning until the New Year (picture below)
- Festival of Light Drone Show (December 5)
- Nick of Time Christmas Craft Show (December 6)
Cafes in Perth, Ontario
Coutts Coffee Roastery and Cafe
Fuel up with coffee from Coutts Coffee Roastery and Cafe. Enjoy a view of the water as you sip on your coffee. In the summer they have a patio you can enjoy and in the colder months its nice and cozy inside, especially for the holidays.
Jazzy’s Brewhaus
Down a hidden alleyway full of twinle lights, you’ll find Jazzy’s Brewhaus. It’s a fun space filled with art. This is also a great spot for breakfast. Try their egg muffin or breakfast sandwich.
North Folk Cafe
Nestled on Gore Street, North Folk Cafe is a charming spot for locals and travellers alike. Sip on organic espresso or seasonal house-made gelato, and don’t miss their weekend afternoon tea with delicate sandwiches and desserts. The café also features local artisan goods, perfect for a unique souvenir.
Perth Pie Co.
This cozy downtown café is a pie lover’s dream, serving scratch-made sweet and savoury pies with specialty coffee from a local roaster. Perth Pie Co. has a laid-back vibe makes it a great pit stop for refueling while exploring Perth’s heritage streets.
Hourglass Cafe
Housed in a restored shoe factory, Hourglass Café combines industrial charm with cozy comfort. Enjoy freshly baked scones, sandwiches, and their signature ginger-molasses cookies.
Stroll Through Stewart Picnic
This is one of my favourite things to do in Perth. This park is so stunning you could honestly spend a whole day here alone. Have a picnic with charcuterie from The Perth Cheese Shop or grab some takeout from Code’s Mill nearby. There are some stunning willow trees, a wooden bridge, and a garden you can explore. There was a wedding taking place here the day we visited.
If you’re interested in turning your visit into a staycation or hosting an event, the Best Western Plus Parkside Inn and Spa would be a great spot. It’s right downtown and the grounds back onto Stewart Park.
Stewart Park was left to the town by late resident Jessie Stewart in 1947 in honour of her late husband. It’s one of the seven wonders of Lanark County.
Explore Code’s Mill
Make sure to add Code’s Mill to your list of things to do in Perth. Cross the bridge from Stewart Park to Code’s Park. It will lead you to Code’s Mill, an old mill converted into multiple shops and restaurants.
Inside is a little oasis of plants and seating. Code’s Mill reminds me of the super-popular Chelsea Market in NYC. I love that you can experience something similar with its own charm close to home. Below are some restaurants and shops to check out online.
Jabreezys Donuts
Head to Jabreezys Donuts for some next-level donuts. They serve some creative donuts made fresh daily. Enjoy flavours like smores, oreo, dragon fruit, toasted coconut and more. They also have vegan, egg-free and dairy free donuts available. Enjoy your donuts in the park nearby or inside Code Mill at one of the tables.
Perth Chocolate Works
Calling all chocolate lovers, make sure to stop at Perth Chocolate Works. This artisan chocolatier is family-owned. All their chocolates are made with high-quality ingredients (locally sourced if possible) and made in small batches on-site. Their retail store offerings change daily, weekly, and seasonally. Treat yourself or pick up some chocolates as a gift.
Fiddleheads Bar and Grill
Fiddleheads Bar and Grill offers casual dining classics. They have a big patio that overlooks Codes Park, offering a stunning view while you dine.
Restaurants in Perth, Ontario
Rocky River Cafe
Rocky River Cafe has a nice hidden patio with lots of greenery. I got the grilled cheese with perogies and caramelized onions and it did not disappoint. It was a generous portion and very filling.
Fieldhouse
Fieldhouse is a bakery and eatery. Grab a sandwich and enjoy it in Stewart Park or grab a coffee and pastry to go. If available, try one of their cruffins, a mix of a croissant and muffin!
Picnic Cafe + Catering
Picnic Cafe + Catering has delicious fresh food and coffee. I loved their selection of bowls with international influence like their sushi bowl. Dine-in or take your lunch to go and enjoy it as a picnic at Stewart Park.
Michael’s Table
I visited in November during a Christmas trip and loved how beatifully the restaurant was decorated. On top of that we got their beef melt with a french onion soup add on and I couldn’t have asked for a better meal to end our festive day. There’s lots of great items to choose from on the menu at Michael’s Table.
Penny’s Place Diner
Penny’s Place is a diner off highway 7 has an incredible homemade brunch you need to try! I got their hipster eggs benny with goat cheese, spinach, tomato salsa, and bacon on sourdough and it was so delicious and filling. You have the choice of homefries or hashbrowns. I recommend their hashbrowns, so good! Heading here is the perfect excuse to start your trip early because it fills up quickly.
Mex & Co
Mex&Co. Offers Mexican Cuisine and has a stunning spot by the water. They have 3 levels of patios to choose from. You’ll find them inside one of my favourite buildings in Perth and perfect for some comforting Mexican dishes.
Maximilian
Maximilian Restaurant offers authentic European cuisine. They have a hidden back patio that has a view of the water.
Shops in Perth, Ontario
With such a great mix of shops, add browsing to your list of things to do in Perth. You’ll find everything from fashion, antiques, gift shops, and more. Make sure to save some time to explore and pop into the shops. Here are a few you need to check out:
Red Brick Emporium
Whether you’re looking to spruce up your home or cottage or take on a fun DIY project, Red Brick Emporium is your stop. Inside you’ll find lots of fun home accessories, stationery, gifts, and more. I feel like I could get my Christmas shopping done in this one shop. Keep an eye out for signs from here around Perth.
The Perth Cheese Shop
The Perth Cheese Shop is a cheese lover’s heaven. You’ll find a wonderful variety and they can also make a gourmet charcuterie board for you. Bring your own board and then take it to Stewart Park nearby to enjoy at a picnic. Looking for a small treat? Get one of their charcuterie cones.
The Rideau Candy Shoppe
Inside The Rideau Candy Shoppe you’ll find it hard to get candy, chocolate, and treats from all over the world including South Africa, Europe, Central America, and more. They also have floats, cotton candy, homemade marshmallows, and more.
Kelly’s Flowers and Gift Boutique
Kelly’s Flowers and Gift Boutique has lots of plants, planters, bouquets, and gifts like jewelry. The unique planters caught my eye and lots of fun finds like moon necklaces. During the holidays they have an amazing selection of Christams decor.
Apropos Flowers
At Apropos you’ll find premium fresh cut flowers, plants, and other artistic goods. Everything is sold by the stem whether that’s a single blossom or a beautiful bouquet. The storefront instantly pulls you in with the arrangement of plants outside.
Ground Waves
Find a wide range of gifts at Ground Waves in Perth. From kitchen items and cookbooks, kids’ toys, self-care products and more enjoy browsing through all the different items. Make sure to walk to the back of the room on the side to spot a beautiful mural that was painted by a staff member.
North Folk Cafe
Not only does North Folk Cafe offer coffee and kombucha to go, they also have a makers market inside. Browse through the different makers they feature including crafts and artwork. They also sell customizable Bubbles & Bites boxes. They come with Artizen Kombucha and other goodies.
Fall River Fashion
Head to Fall River Fashion to find a wonderful selection of clothing, handbags, jewelry, shoes, and more. Inside you’ll find lots of different pieces to suit your style and budget. Their beautiful storefront is sure to catch your eye as well as their lovely displays inside.
Backbeat Books and Music
Backbeat Books and Music has a wonderful collection of books, records music, and more inside. Browse their variety and see what catches your eye.
Flint and Honey
This shop quickly became a new favourite with its mix of cute outfits. Whether you’re looking for an outfit for out on the town or something cozier, they’ve got it.
Gore Street Antique Market
Find something unique at Gore Street Antique Market. Inside you’ll find everything from comic books, jewelry, glassware, and more.
Spark Books and Curios
Inside Spark Books & Curios you’ll find a woncerful selection of new and used books, DIY kits, gifts and more.
Lida
The pink Christmas trees outside their shop in November caught my eye and I knew I needed to check out Lida. Inside you’ll find street-style clothing, shoes, accessories, consignment and more.
Queen Bee Millinery
Inside Queen Bee Millinery you’ll find a gorgeous selection of one-of-a-kind handmade hats and fascinators. These would be the perfect accessory for high tea at Fairmont Chateau Laurier.
Fashion Boutiques
There are plenty of spots to browse new trends and clothes in Perth. If you’re looking for a new outfit you’ll find plenty of shops downtown including Miss Penny’s Closet, Fashion Envy, The Second Collection, Fawn & Fox, The Plaid Cow, Ecou Bou and more.
Kids Shops
From clothing to toys, there’s lots of great shops like Spring Children and Aprikose Children’s Boutique.
Home and Fun Finds Boutiques
Find some fun decor pieces to remind you of your trip to Perth. You’ll find lots of shops offering unique items including Decor a la Mode, Hay Design, Riverguild Fine Crafts, Mariposa Design and more.
Learn About The History of Perth, Ontario
Perth began as a military settlement in 1816 after the War of 1812. The British government offered 100 acres of land to soldiers from Scotland. Perth and the Tay River are named after a city and river of the same name in Scotland.
Visit The Perth Museum & Visitor Centre
Step into the award winning Perth Museum and explore the Matheson House. The stone dwelling was built in 1840 for the Honourable Roderick Matheson, wealthy merchant and a senator in Canada’s first parliament after Confederation. There are four rooms that have been restored to reflect the time period.
Before you leave, make sure to visit the Perth Museum’s Courtyard. It feels like a hidden oasis right downtown with its beautiful garden.
Go On A Walking Tour of Perth, Ontario
There are multiple walking tours and self-guided tours available in Perth. From stories of the settlement to ghost tours, find the full list here.
Visit a Perth Brewery or Distillery
Bridge Masters Brewing
Find Bridge Masters Brewery at the foot of Canada’s oldest metal swing bridge. This is a great place to try some local brews and a fun menu with items like their beef barbacoa quesadilla.
Perth Brewing
Perth Brewing has a great selection of beers and non-alocholic beers. Many of their beers are an ode to Perth and local places. I love that they have a Last Duel Beer that’s an ode to the historic last fatal duel in Upper Canada.
Top Shelf Distillers
If you love spirits, add Top Shelf Distillers to your list of things to do in Perth. Their distillery is in Perth but you’ve probably been introduced to them already at an Ottawa event. They offer classic spirits, cocktail kits, bitters and more.
Go Kayaking or Canoeing On The Tay River
Head down the Tow Path to Perth Major Outfitters. Perth is a beautiful spot to go kayaking/canoeing and even made my list of places to go near Ottawa. The Tay River flows through downtown so you’ll get some pretty scenic views as you paddle through. Check out this post to guide your paddle adventure.
Perth Outfitters has plenty of fun activities to enjoy. Feel like you’re playing real life mario kart as you cycle through a course on their European bikes. Play a round of mini-golf before you leave, including a hole that’s on the water.
We went paddleboarding and its a peaceful and scenic paddle as you pass by the bridges, Weatherhead Brewing and Sunflower Bake Shop (keep an eye out for their dock so you can stop and get a treat).
Interested in launching your own canoe or kayak? You can launch your canoe or kayak at Tay Basin downtown or Last Duel Park on the outskirts.
Bike Ride Around Perth
Cycle around Perth and see the sights. Rent a bike or e-scooter from Heritage Bikes in Perth. Their team can walk you through different cycle options including country roads.
To see all the main sites of downtown Perth, here’s their recommended route:
- Start at Heritage Bikes and make your way to Stewart Park
- Turn left on Rogers and make your way to Conlon Farm
- Once at the farm, turn right onto Cockburn toward Beckwith
- Turn right on Beckwith and make your way to Last Duel Park
- Bike Left towards Crystal Palace
- Make your way back to Heritage Bikes
Visit A Gallery in Perth, Ontario
Concave Gallery
Concave Gallery opened up recently inside Code’s Mill and has such a fun mix of art from talented artists. From pop culture drawings to watercolour that literally looked like a photograph, you’ll love browsing inside here. Concave Gallery wants to give a platform for those who have chosen to stray from the safe path and give them an avenue to showcase their work.
Katherine Muir Miller Gallery
Katherine Muir Miller Gallery has stunning and vibrant landscape pieces. I loved browsing and seeing all the paintings that captured memories of cross-Canada travel.
Studio 87
Studio 87 is another gallery in Perth where you’ll find beautiful and vibrant pieces. Walk into the background and you can sit and browse the paintings with a view of the water.
Visit The Drive-In
Nearby you’ll find the Port Elmsley Drive-In. Watch a movie under the stars surrounded by forest. I went here at the beginning of summer and had a blast. Head to Perth early so you can spend the day exploring and then end your day at the drive in. Find more details in my guide to nearby drive-ins here.
Events in Perth
Throughout the year Perth is home to many wonderful events. You can check their event calendar here and lineup your visit with one.
Perth Farmers Market
Attend the Perth Farmer’s Market on Saturday to browse local vendors. You’ll find fresh herbs, specialty kimchi’s, maple syrup, and more. Nearby the Farmer’s Market you’ll spot the giant replica of the 22,000 pound Mammoth Cheese made in Perth and sent to the 1892 Chicago World’s Fair.
Perth Night Market
Head to Perth for their Perth Night Market. Wander the streets and encounter entertainers and artisans, and dine and imbibe under the stars at their delicious restaurants and pubs. Shop as you stroll while surrounded by our beautiful heritage buildings, with many shops open late.
Where To Stay In Perth
Best Western Plus Parkside Inn and Spa
Best Western Plus Parkside Inn and Spa is right downtown so you can park your car and then walk to the main attractions. It backs onto the stunning Stewart Park. It’s also a popular spot for wedding receptions. Book your Stay at the Perth Best Western Plus here. My friend and I have a lovely Christmas girls trip here. It was magical waking up to a view of Stewart Park covered in a sprinkling of snow from our room. Their on-site restaurant was beautifully decorated for Christmas and we loved having a glass of sparking by their tree.
Nevis Estate
Nevis Estate brings luxury accommodation in a stunning heritage estate. We had the opportunity to do a tour and the grounds and rooms are absolutely stunning. Everything was so thoughtful from the naming of each room after Scotch to the stunning main bar.
How To Get To Perth, Ontario and Parking
Perth is about an hour’s drive from Ottawa and just over an hour from Kingston. The municipal lots have free parking until October 31, 2021. Street parking downtown is free for the first 4 hours.
This post was sponsored by Perth Tourism. As always, all thoughts and opinions are my own. I hope you have as much fun exploring Perth as I did. I’d love to see your adventures.
Julia started Little Miss Ottawa as a way to explore her hometown as a traveller would. She’s always planning her next adventure, whether it’s local or abroad. You’ll find her exploring with her camera in hand. She hopes Little Miss Ottawa helps bring you on new and fun adventures. Happy exploring :)
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