Carleton Place Winter mini-guide
Welcome to carleton place A short drive west of Ottawa, you’ll discover this charming riverside town in Lanark County—Ontario’s Maple Syrup Capital. Nestled along the Mississippi River, Carleton Place comes alive in winter with snowy trails, sparkling lights, cozy cafés, and a heritage downtown that invites you to slow down and explore. From scenic walking trails and outdoor adventures to boutique shopping, local art, live music, and a food scene known for its big taste in a small town, winter is a beautiful time to experience Carleton Place. Don’t just pass through on Highway 7— take a short detour downtown and discover the heart of our tight-knit community. Make the Carleton Place Information Centre your first stop. Pick up maps and guides, browse the local gift shop, and connect with friendly staff ready to help you curate the perfect itinerary with personalized recommendations. If you have any questions before visiting, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re excited for you to discover that our charming town is a hidden gem worth exploring, and one we’re proud to call home. We hope this Winter Mini Guide enhances your visit and helps you uncover why Carleton Place is a hidden gem—one we’re proud to call home.
Carleton Place Information Centre 170 Bridge Street, Carleton Place, Ontario, Canada Tourism@cpchamber.com | 613-257-1976 www.visit.carletonplace.ca | https://issuu.com/carletonplacetourism
Accommodations The Grand Hotel 7 Bridge Street, Carleton Place 613-492-1566 thegrandhotelcp.ca
Comfort Inn & Suites 355 McNeely Ave, Carleton Place 343-321-3363 choicehotels.com
Tri Century Mill Suites 150 Mill Street, Carleton Place 613-451-2644 info@mcarthurisland.com
Old Mill Manor 104 Old Mill Ln, Almonte 613-257-9477 theoldmillmanor.com
Airbnb, Vrbo, and Vacation Rentals available in town and on Mississippi Lake.
35 minutes from Ottawa 1 hour 35 minutes from Kingston 2 hours 40 minutes from Montréal 4 hours from Toronto
Snowmobiling
Ottawa Valley Recreational Trail Lookout
Stalwart Brewing Co.
Carleton Place Gallery
Freska Cafe
Bird Watching
winter activities & outdoor fun Skating Skating
Lace up your skates and enjoy classic Canadian winter fun at Carleton Place’s outdoor rinks, including Carleton Junction and Carambeck Community Centre. Indoor skating is available at the Carleton Place Arena on Mondays & Wednesdays, 7-7:50 pm, and Saturdays & Sundays, 2-2:50 pm.
Snowshoeing Snowshoeing
Explore snow-covered trails with rentals available at the Information Centre, a peaceful way to experience winter in nature. We recommend this activity after a fresh snowfall on trails such as O-Kee-Lee Park, Riverside Trail, Sonnenburg Woods, and the Ottawa Valley Recreational Trail.
Walking Trails Walking Trails Walking trails offer strolls along the Mississippi River and through woodlands, perfect for fresh air, photography, and wellness. Dress warmly and head to trails such as the Ottawa Valley Recreational Trail, Mississippi Riverwalk Trail, O-Kee-Lee Trail, Riverside Trail, and Roy Brown Park Trail.
Snowmobiling Snowmobiling
Carleton Place offers convenient access to Eastern Ontario’s extensive snowmobile trail network, making it an ideal stop for riders looking to explore the region or warm up in town between routes. Check out the Rails & Trails Ontario East Loop online, or pick up a map at the Information Centre.
Winter Bird Winter Bird Watching Watching Head to the Mississippi Riverwalk, Sonnenburg Woods or Riverside Trail, where birdwatchers can spot vibrant cardinals, Trumpeter swans, and other wildlife set against snowy river views.
Ice Fishing Ice Fishing
Enjoy ice fishing opportunities on Mississippi Lake, offering an outdoor experience for anglers of all skill levels. Visit Baitcasters for essential gear.
Winter Cycling Winter Cycling
For those craving adventure, bring your fat bike or winter-ready bicycle and explore our trail network in a whole new season—refreshing, scenic, and surprisingly fun. Check out the Ottawa Valley Recreational Trail, Sonnenburg Woods, or Rotary Centennial Trail.
HocKEY: Carleton HocKEY: Carleton Place Place Canadians Canadians
Catch a game and cheer on the hometown heroes, the Carleton Place Canadians. Winter hockey nights are a true local tradition and a great way to experience Carleton Place’s community spirit. Click here for their schedule.
indoor fun Capt. Roy Capt. Roy Brown Brown Exhibit Exhibit
Explore the Capt. Roy Brown Exhibit at the Carleton Place Information Centre, an engaging display celebrating the life and legacy of Roy Brown, Carleton Place’s famed First World War pilot.
Brewery fun Brewery fun && Games Games
Stalwart Brewing Co. offers more than just small-batch beers; pair your pint with snacks, free pool, quiz nights, taco nights, and Pints Against Humanity! Braumeister Brewing Co. also hosts trivia nights.
Parrot Partners Parrot Partners
Parrot Partners offers engaging in-person tours and birthday party visits where visitors meet colourful parrots up close while learning about humane rehabilitation, training, and responsible parrot care.
indoor golf: indoor golf: Celtic Celtic Golf Golf Centre Centre
Enjoy a fun and friendly indoor golf experience perfect for all ages and skill levels.
Bowling: Chasin’ Bowling: Chasin’ Turkeys Turkeys
Warm up with classic indoor fun at Chasin’ Turkeys Bowling Alley in downtown Carleton Place. This retro-style 5-pin bowling spot offers a relaxed, feel-good experience for families, friends, or a cozy date night—complete with local craft beers and a welcoming vibe.
Carleton Place Carleton Place && Beckwith Beckwith Heritage Heritage Museum Museum
Located in a beautifully restored stone building dating back to 1872, which once served as the Town Hall and a school. Discover exhibits and artifacts that bring the stories of Carleton Place and Beckwith Township to life—from early settlement and industry to community milestones—making it a welcoming indoor stop for visitors of all ages. The museum opens for the season on February 11th.
final score final score sports sports bar bar && Yuk Yuk Yuk’s Yuk’s Comedy Comedy
Final Score Sports Bar is the location of a lot of fun! With an extensive menu of food and drink, enjoy the electronic darts zone, tables of pool, video games, weekly karaoke, and Yuk Yuk’s Comedy shows.
Hobby Stores: Hobby Stores: Trading Trading card card games games (TCG), (TCG), tabletop tabletop && Video Video games games
Fans of TCG’s, tabletop games, and video games will find an abundance of them in town! Visit GT Games and Treasures ‘N’ More for TCGs and tabletop game events happening weekly. Check out The Retro Room too for more new and pre-loved video games.
salons and salons and spas spas
Relax and unwind with special treatments at the full-service Mahogany Salon & Spa, medical aesthetics and pampering at Sunrise Lasers, or head to the outdoors at Winners Retreat's boho thermal spa.
Live music Live music && theatre theatre
You can enjoy open mics, live music at pubs, and even an art gallery, as well as concerts hosted at the historic Town Hall Auditorium. See our events calendar at the end of the guide for a full list.
Cooking classes Cooking classes
Blue Spoon Atelier is a cafe and teaching kitchen offering a variety of cooking classes and workshops.
Shopping downtown bridge downtown bridge street street Lined with independent shops and glowing with lights, this walkable historic core offers a relaxed, personal shopping experience that’s a refreshing change from the crowds of big-box stores. From unique gift shops and artisan boutiques to thrift and consignment stores, trendy fashion, and stores just for kids, there’s something for every shopper and family member. Thoughtfully curated shelves, friendly shop owners, and one-of-a-kind finds make shopping here feel meaningful—while supporting the local small businesses that give Carleton Place its charm.
Beyond Bridge Beyond Bridge Street Street Shopping in Carleton Place extends well beyond the downtown core, with inviting businesses located throughout town. Browse lifestyle and home finds at Acquisti Life in the Carleton Place Colonnade, or hunt for unexpected treasures at Murray’s Flea Market on High Street.
Thrift, Consignment Thrift, Consignment && Treasure Treasure Hunting Hunting One of Carleton Place’s standout shopping trends is its thriving thrift and consignment scene, perfect for those who love the thrill of discovery. Explore cheerful and eclectic stops like Cheerful Giver, As Good As New, Coastal Consignment, A Bunch of Whimsy, and Millward’s Consignment, where every visit feels like a treasure hunt.
For Kids, For Kids, Parents Parents && Thoughtful Thoughtful Gifting Gifting Families will love Carleton Place’s collection of shops for kids and parents, including Carousel, Apple Cheeks, and Treasures ’n’ More—ideal for gifts, clothing, and special keepsakes. Find all the things you need to keep your family healthy at The Granary Bulk & Natural Foods store.
Weddings && Special Weddings Special Occasions Occasions Carleton Place is also a destination for curating life’s biggest moments. Those planning a wedding or celebration will find expert guidance and beautiful details at Sinders Bridal House, Renewed With Love, Floral Boutique, and Burns Jewellers.
Pause, Sip Pause, Sip && Wander Wander Don’t forget to take your time, pop into a café between shops, and enjoy the simple pleasure of wandering at your own pace. Before or after shopping, warm up at nearby cafés, restaurants, and bakeries—and be sure to check out the Shopping & Dining Guide and the Downtown Carleton Place BIA website to discover even more places to explore throughout Carleton Place.
Downtown Shopping
Floral Boutique
The Real Wool Shop
Food & Drink Warm Up Warm Up with with Local Local Flavours Flavours Winter in Carleton Place brings out the cozy side of the local food scene—from hearty meals and global flavours to comforting cafés and craft brews. After exploring trails or wandering downtown, treat yourself to delicious flavours that reflect our seasonal and community-driven culinary culture.
Breakfast && Brunch Breakfast Brunch
Fuel up for a day of winter fun with classic breakfast fare and brunch favourites at Freska Café & Eatery and The Waterfront Gastropub, or enjoy morning staples at Mapels Eatery.
Cozy Cafés Cozy Cafés && Sweet Sweet Treats Treats Start your day at Foundry Collective & Coffee Bar, the local go-to for great coffee and artisan sandwiches. For a truly creepy-cozy vibe, warm up inside Dark & Deadly Café. Sweet stops include Holey Confections for indulgent treats and Carp Custom Creamery for ice cream year-round. For baked goods, don’t miss The Little German Bakery or Blue Spoon Atelier for fresh sourdough, soups, and cozy winter bites.
Breweries && Casual Breweries Casual Pubs Pubs
Nothing beats a local craft beer on a cold winter evening. Stalwart Brewing Co. and Braumeister Brewing Co. both offer welcoming taprooms and seasonal pours that pair perfectly with relaxed conversation after a day of exploring. Casual pub favourites like St. James Gate and Thirsty Moose Pub & Eatery also serve hearty meals and drinks in friendly settings.
Seasonal Dining Seasonal Dining && Global Global Flavours Flavours Carleton Place’s restaurants offer rich, satisfying flavours perfect for chilly days. Black Tartan Kitchen stands out with elevated, seasonal cuisine that highlights local ingredients. For bold international flavours, try My Thai Village, known for aromatic Thai classics made with fresh ingredients, or enjoy Moore Sushi, where authentic Japanese sushi, ramen, tempura, poke bowls, and more offer a satisfying break from winter chill. Other hearty options around town include Carleton Noodle House (authentic Vietnamese dishes) and classic comfort at Eataria Unlimited. Curry lovers will find the perfect cozy dish at Sagar Indian Cuisine.
Savour the Savour the Season Season From bold international dishes and refined seasonal menus to comforting cafés and local breweries, Carleton Place’s winter food scene has something for every palate. Whether you’re stopping in between outdoor activities or planning a cozy evening with friends, these local flavours make winter visits truly delicious.
itineraries art && Music art Music adventurer adventurer Morning: Begin with coffee at a local café, then wander downtown to explore galleries, murals, and creative storefronts that showcase Carleton Place’s artistic spirit. Midday: Visit the Carleton Place Gallery to experience rotating guest exhibits, including photography, painting, and mixed-media installations. Continue to the Art Hub Gallery, home to seasonal art shows featuring artists from Arts Carleton Place. If timing allows, look for workshops, art shows, or creative experiences happening at these galleries and around town. Afternoon: Warm up with lunch, then continue browsing boutiques, thrift and consignment shops, and artisan stores—perfect for discovering one-of-a-kind pieces. Evening: As night falls, experience Carleton Place’s vibrant live music scene. Catch an Art House Music performance at the Gallery or enjoy a concert or show at Town Hall—most notably the Jeff Rogers Music Trio (March 7, 2026). Pair the show with dinner or drinks downtown for a full night out.
family fun family fun Morning: Start with breakfast at a family-friendly café before heading out for skating at one of Carleton Place’s outdoor rinks, such as Carleton Junction or Carambeck Community Centre. Late Morning: Warm up indoors with a visit to Chasin’ Turkeys Bowling Alley for classic 5-pin bowling fun, or book an interactive experience at Parrot Partners, where kids can meet colourful parrots and learn about animal care. Afternoon: Grab lunch downtown, then browse local shops—especially those geared toward kids and families—for unique gifts and treats. Plan your visit during Family Day for Comic Con! Evening: Finish the day with dinner at a casual restaurant, keeping things relaxed and easy for all ages.
history buff history buff Morning: Begin at the Carleton Place Information Centre and explore the Capt. Roy Brown Exhibit, highlighting the life and legacy of Carleton Place’s famed First World War flying ace. While you’re there, pick up a self-guided heritage walking tour brochure to help guide your exploration of town. Late Morning: Follow the self-guided walking tour through the historic downtown core, discovering heritage buildings, murals, and streetscapes that reflect Carleton Place’s industrial roots and riverside history. Afternoon: Visit the Carleton Place & Beckwith Heritage Museum (open February 11) to explore exhibits and artifacts that bring the stories of early settlement, industry, and community life to light. Evening: End the day with a relaxed dinner downtown, and if available, enjoy a live performance or community event for a deeper connection to Carleton Place’s culture.
Event Calendar Art Show: Shifting Perspectives January 1 – February 15, 10am–5pm daily Art Hub Gallery, 127 Bridge Street Braumeister Trivia Night January 21, 7:00pm Braumeister Brewing Co., 19 Moore Street January Antique Sale January 24, 9am–4pm Carleton Place & Beckwith Heritage Museum, 267 Edmund Street Winter Country Classic January 25, 2–6pm Doors open 12:30pm Robbie Burns Day Celebration January 25, 5–10pm Capt. A. Roy Brown Legion, 177 George Street Foundry Trivia Night January 27, 6:30pm Foundry Coffee Bar The Altos: Like the Sopranos, Only Lower January 30, 6:00pm Capt. A. Roy Brown Legion, 177 George Street Meet the Keepers Wildlife Rescue Show January 30, 10–11am Carleton Place Arena
Valentine’s Day Concert February 14, 2–3pm Zion Memorial Church Carleton Place Comic Con (Family Day) February 16, 10am–4pm Carleton Place Arena Art Show: Intersections February 16 – March 29, 10am–5pm daily Art Hub Gallery, 127 Bridge Street Art House Music: Paul Weber Band March 5, 7–9pm Carleton Place Gallery Jeff Rogers Music Trio Concert March 7, 7:30pm Town Hall Auditorium Wine Tasting & Gourmet Pairing March 7, doors 6:30pm Carleton Place Curling Club Soap Making Workshop March 14, 12–2:30pm Carleton Place Collective, 155 Industrial Ave Guest Exhibit: Don Bruner March 14 – April 1 Carleton Place Gallery
Guest Exhibit: Andrew Michel Couture January 31 – February 19 Carleton Place Gallery
March Break Events March 16–21 Carleton Place Public Library
Blue Spoon Atelier – National Soup Day February 4, 11am–2pm
Community Bonspiel March 21, 8am–5pm Carleton Place Curling Club
FISHISSIPPI Frostbite Classic Ice Fishing Derby February 7 Mississippi Lake Parents & Tots and Family Valentine’s Dance February 8, 9:30am–12pm Carleton Place Arena Hadestown: Teen Edition February 13–15 & 20–21 Matinees & evenings Carleton Place Town Hall
More events ->
Broadway Showstoppers March 27–29, 7:30pm Carleton Place Town Hall Art Show: Whispers of Change March 30 – May 17, 10am–5pm daily Art Hub Gallery, 127 Bridge Street Carleton Place Collective Art Workshops Amethyst Workshops & Spiritual Healing Events Blue Spoon Cooking Classes