welcome
Experience ottawa’s favourite small town getaway
Summer is the perfect time to slow down and enjoy everything Carleton Place has to offer — scenic trails, a vibrant food and drink scene, one-of-a-kind shops, lively events, the Mississippi River, and friendly faces at every turn.
Whether you’re here for an afternoon or a weekend, we invite you to explore at your own pace and discover the charm that makes this town so special.
Your first stop? The Carleton Place Information Centre located in the historic
Walkingtrails
There are a variety of accessible trails that highlight the town’s natural beauty and local history. Most are under 3 km and easy to navigate. This summer, explore the Mississippi Riverwalk, Riverside Trail, O-Kee-Lee Trail, and Roy Brown Park Trail, for a relaxed walk with views of the river, blooming wildflowers, and a potential glimpse of local wildlife.
fishing
There are plenty of spots to cast a line, whether from the shoreline or by boat. The Mississippi River is home to species like walleye, bass, pike, crappie, and bluegill. Popular areas include Riverside Park, where local fishing competitions add to the summer buzz. Fishing poles are available to borrow from the Information Centre, or stop by Baitcasters for supplies and advice from local experts.
Boating
Carleton Place offers a variety of boating options on the Mississippi River and Mississippi Lake, with public boat launches and docks available.
paddling
Carleton Place is home to the oldest racing canoe club in Canada, and the Mississippi River offers a scenic route for kayakers and paddle boarders of all levels. Launch from Centennial Park, just across from the Canoe Club, and head upriver to explore bays, wetlands, and quiet creeks or paddle downstream toward the bridge and municipal dock for easy access to downtown shops and dining.
Self-serve kayak and stand-up paddle board rentals are available all summer at Centennial Park through kayakomat.com.
CYCLING
Carleton Place is a hub for cyclists, where the Trans Canada Trail meets the Ottawa Valley Recreational Trail (OVRT). Ride to Ottawa, explore Lanark County, or enjoy scenic routes in every direction. The OVRT’s wide, flat path is perfect for relaxed rides with river views, café stops, and connections to nearby towns like Almonte and Smiths Falls.
No bike? Rent one from the Information Centre great for visitors and group outings.
photography
With a mix of historic architecture and natural beauty, Carleton Place is full of photo-worthy scenes. From trails along the river to murals and heritage buildings downtown, there’s something for every photographer or curious explorer.
Pick up a Self-Guided Walking Tour brochure at the Information Centre to discover hidden corners and learn about heritage sites.
motorcycling
Carleton Place is a frequent stop for motorcyclists and enduro riders during the warmer months. The Ride the Highlands route, known as The Gravel Crusher, loops right through town, offering a scenic and adventurous ride with easy access to historic downtown, local shops, and riverside patios ideal for a break, bite or overnight stay.
birdwatching&aviarytours
With over 200 bird species found in Lanark County, Carleton Place is a great place to spot wildlife along the water. The Mississippi Riverwalk, Riverside Trail, and O-Kee-Lee Nature Trail, are all good starting points for summer birdwatching, especially near the river and lake shores.
For a more hands-on experience, visit Parrot Partners, a working aviary right here in town.
beaches&splashpads
Carleton Place beaches open June 16th! Cool off at Riverside or Centennial Beach, with lifeguards on duty daily from 9:30a.m. to 6p.m. Both spots are perfect for summer fun, and Riverside Park also features a splash pad, playground, and shaded picnic areas a great way for young families to beat the heat!
golfing
Golf enthusiasts can tee off at three local courses offering picturesque views and wellmaintained greens: The Canadian Golf & Country Club, Mississippi Golf Club, and Scottish Glen Golf Course. Plan your stay or dining options in Carleton Place and tee up!
Picnicking&greenspaces
Take your pick of parks and green spaces to enjoy some greenery, scenic views and picnics. We recommend Riverside Trail and Sinclair Park’s benches for scenic views.
You can also picnic with a view at Town Hall Square or amongst flowers and the historic Carleton Place & Beckwith Heritage Museum at Victoria Gardens.
CarletonJunction
Carleton Junction is the place to visit for kids to burn off some energy! Let them enjoy the train-themed playground, skate park and pump track with scooters, skateboards or bmx bikes!
A pump track is a looping path around the skate zone with two track options to suit all ages and skill levels ideal for beginners to confident riders.
Findlay foundry exhibit: moulding our town
We recommend history buffs and families to plan a visit to the Carleton Place & Beckwith Heritage Museum for the Findlay Foundry exhibit on display. Learn about Carleton Place history, our former industries, and the families that moulded the town.
downtown carleton place presents: dog days of summer
Celebrate all things dogs with trails, dog-friendly parks, pupachinos, the Ulti Mutts Animal Show at Centennial Park on August 3 , and a free Movie in the Park (Bolt) at Carleton Junction on August 16 . Follow Downtown Carleton Place for more information about this month-long event! rd
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Carleton Place farmers market
Every Saturday, from 8:30am-12:30pm, at Market Square, you can count on the Carleton Place Farmer’s Market for the freshest greens, local homemade products, baked goods and so much more.
a bunch of whimsy markets
After exploring the Farmer’s Market, head to A Bunch of Whimsy downtown, and shop local works of artisans, makers and other vendors at the open-air market that stretch outs onto the sidewalk and courtyard.
Happening every Saturday in June, July and August, from 9am-1pm.
Murray’s flea market
Open Friday to Sunday, from 10am-4pm, browse a selection of antiques, with over 35 vendors!
art&musicbucketlist
Visit Arts Carleton Place’s new Art Hub Gallery at 127 Bridge Street and their “Lets Dream” art show!
Saturday, August 16, 10:30am - 5pm, 210 Bridge Street Carleton Place Riverfront Escape
Thursday, June 26, Carleton Place Gallery Art House Music Concert Series presents: TRiPOD.
Lanark County Art & Heritage Tour. Pick up your map at the Information Centre and explore art galleries, museums and public art throughout Carleton Place and Lanark County.
Look up and enjoy Downtown Carleton Place’s Art Expedition banners. These banners are made up of local artists work, and will be on display starting July.
While exploring Carleton Place, keep an eye out for the numerous murals depicting the town’s history. Make it a tour using visit.carletonplace.ca/murals as your guide.
Carleton Place & District Community Band’s Summer Concert
June 16, 4:30pm, Riverside Park
July 28, 4:30pm, Riverside Park
Enjoy a bit to eat and live music at these pubs: St. James Gate: Fridays, 7pm-10pm Waterfront Gastropub: Wednesdays 8pm-11pm (open jam), Thursday to Sunday 8pm-11pm, Saturday and Sunday 2pm-5pm
Carleton Place PorchFest - Details coming soon, follow us on Facebook for updates!
Everyone enjoys a good laugh! Head to Yuk Yuk’s On-Tour at The Final Score Sports Bar, for a comedy show.
Your Front Row to Local Arts.
1.Enjoy breakfast at any number of our cafes and breakfast or brunch spots in downtown Carleton Place or throughout town.
2.Park behind the Information Centre at 170 Bridge Street, and visit us for bike rentals and free maps. Ask staff about recommended routes for the various trail types we offer.
3.Enjoy your cycling adventure! Enjoy lush forests, farm fields, riverside views, wildlife and more!
4.Stop to capture memories at various photo ops and murals downtown. Look for the “CYCLE” photo op along the Ottawa Valley Recreational Trail and Market Square.
5.Refresh with ice cream at Carp Custom Creamery, or gelato from Maverick’s Donuts Company. If you prefer to quench your thirst, cycle to Stalwart Brewing Company or Braumeister Brewing Company (along the OVRT).
6.Return your bikes to the Information Centre before 4pm.
7.Refresh and head to a patio for a well deserved dinner!
Carleton Place is a central connection point for cyclists, where the Trans Canada Trail intersects with the Ottawa Valley Recreational Trail (OVRT). From here, you can ride directly to Ottawa, head deeper into Lanark County, or explore scenic routes in every direction.
1.Enjoy breakfast at any number of our cafes and breakfast or brunch spots in downtown Carleton Place or throughout town.
2.Start your morning off with a walk along the Mississippi Riverwalk Trail. Enjoy wildlife and access to the Mississippi River.
3.Businesses will have opened their doors, so stroll up and down Bridge Street and stop into unique, one-of-a-kind shops.
4.Rent a single or tandem kayak or stand up paddle board, then head to Centennial Park to access your rental! Enjoy paddling up and down the Mississippi River.
5.OR if you prefer to truly unwind, book an appointment for some true relaxation at any of our spas or salons in town.
6.End your evening with a patio dinner and enjoy the sunset at The Waterfront Gastropub, Boulton House, or Generations Restaurant. Other great patios include Black Tartan Kitchen, St. James Gate Pub, and the Trailside Canteen at Braumeister Brewing Co.
Tucked away just off Mill Street, Hackberry Park is one of Carleton Place’s secrets for a peaceful escape. Named for the rare and resilient hackberry trees that grow there the park offers a shady riverside spot to relax, read, or reflect. Read more about these special trees on the historical plaque at the Park.
1.Start your family adventure with a hearty breakfast at Freska Cafe, The Waterfront Gastropub, Thruway Restaurant, or Zak’s Diner.
2.Share a fun and educational experience with the family by visiting the Carleton Place & Beckwith Heritage Museum.
3.Grab some local treats and snacks from cafes and bakeries in town to enjoy as a picnic or along your next adventure.
4.Pick your adventure:
a.Launch a boat on the Mississippi River.
b.Borrow fishing poles from the Information Centre.
c.Borrow a key from the Information Centre, to play mega-sized chess at Town Hall Square.
d.Launch kayaks and canoes from Centennial Park (free parking).
e.Go swimming or enjoy the splash pads at Riverside Park.
f.Enjoy family bonding in nature on our various trails.
g.Head to Carleton Junction with your skateboards and bicycles for the skate park and pump track.
h.Book a tour at Parrot Partners for an aviary tour.
5.Treat everyone to ice cream at Carp Custom Creamery, or gelato from Maverick’s Donuts Company. You can also save the sweet treat and head straight to dinner on a patio or try some of our international cuisine.
things to consider
Take a look at our events calendar on the next page, and pick a weekend where there’s a fun summer festival or event happening. Book your stay at The Comfort Inn & Suites (pool included), a unique Airbnb, or vacation rental. Bring your preferred adventure toys, whether boat, kayaks, bicycles, skateboards or scooters.
Carleton Place Farmers' Market
Every Saturday, 8:30am–12:30pm, Market Square Pavilion
June 14 – Butter Tart Festival (hosted by Market)
August 16 – PickleFest (hosted by Market)
Carleton Place Cruise Nights
summer events
Full calendar list of events here
Every Wednesday, 5–8:30pm at Independent Grocer parking lot
Stand Up Paddleboard Yoga
June 13 – Riverside Park Beach
Carleton Place & District Community Band: Summer Concert
June 16 & July 28, 7:30pm – Riverside Park
Wheels on the Mississippi Car Show
June 22, 9am–2pm – Riverside Park
Carleton Place Community Tattoo
June 22, 12pm –177 George Street
Art House Music Concert Series: TRiPOD
June 26, 7pm – Carleton Place Gallery
Carleton Place Beer Festival
June 27, 4-10pm – Market Square Pavilion
Canada Day Celebrations
July 1 – Riverside Park – Includes fireworks
Kids Fishing Derby
Downtown Shopping & Dining Guide
Carleton Junction Pump Track
July 5, 9am-1pm – Riverside Park (kidsfishingderby@icloud.com)
Canoe Club Regatta
July 20 – Carleton Place Canoe Club
Bridge Street Summerfest
July 26, 10am-3pm, Bridge Street + Free movie in the park (The Lion King: Mufasa)
Dog Days of Summer
For all of August, visit Downtown Carleton Place to celebrate all things dogs!
August 3 – Ulti-Mutts Animal Show, Centennial Park
August 16 – Free Movie in the Park; movie Bolt, Carleton Junction
Riverfront Artscape
August 16, 10:30am-5pm – 210 Bridge Street
Foundry Collective & Coffee Bar Trivia
August 26, 6:30pm – Foundry Coffee Bar
Carleton Place & Beckwith Heritage Museum
Open Tue–Sat 10–4, Sun 1–4; Findlay Foundry exhibit & summer walking tours
