Kenora Stuff / Summer 2019

By Duncan McEwen

Kayaking nearby Quarry Island, Lake of the Woods.

Cover photo by Kim Pirie-Milko.

WELCOME TO Summer

VIBRANT

DOWNTOWN

OVER 60 SHOPS & 20 EATERIES

BEACHES & PLAYGROUNDS PARKS, TRAILS, GREEN SPACES COOLEST LITTLE MUSEUM

LARGEST FARMERS MARKET IN NORTHWESTERN ONTARIO FESTIVALS, CONCERTS & ENTERTAINMENT ALL SUMMER LONG

NORTH AMERICA’S PREMIERE BOATING DESTINATION

14,522 ISLANDS

65,000 MILES OF SHORELINE WORLD CLASS FISHING CANOEING, KAYAKING, SAILING, BOATING

14TH LARGEST LAKE IN CANADA

PICTURESQUE BEAUTY

LAKE OF THE WOODS

Photo: Kim Pirie-Milko

A Local’s Life

Nobody knows Kenora like those who choose to live here. We’ve asked six locals to share personal insights and experiences related to Kenora’s best events, attractions and activities. Throughout the magazine, these six locals will help you understand what makes Kenora a special place.

Bob Bernie

LIVED IN KENORA

35 years.

BY WORK Police officer.

BY PLAY

Hunting, fishing, music, guitar.

FIRST ACTIVITY TO DO IN KENORA: Explore the lake and experience the world class fishery.

Allyson Erskine

LIVED IN KENORA 27 years.

BY WORK

Small business development and lending.

BY PLAY

Swimming, kayaking, gardening, quading, hunting.

FIRST ACTIVITY TO DO IN KENORA: Hike the Tunnel Island Trails.

Darren Harper

LIVED IN KENORA 28 years.

BY WORK

Independent consultant & entrepreneur.

BY PLAY

Everything Lake of the Woods with friends and family.

FIRST ACTIVITY TO DO IN KENORA: Local public beaches.

Theresa Bowen

LIVED IN KENORA

A long time.

BY WORK

Retired from Community Support Services.

BY PLAY

Grandchildren’s sporting activities, walking, volunteering.

FIRST ACTIVITY TO DO IN KENORA: Visit Lake of the Woods Museum.

Baylee Greaves

LIVED IN KENORA Entire life.

BY WORK

Grade-school student.

BY PLAY

Swimming, hockey, outdoor activities, siblings and family.

FIRST ACTIVITY TO DO IN KENORA: Go to the beach and then grab some ice cream.

Kim Pirie-Milko

LIVED IN KENORA Entire life.

BY WORK

Secondary school special education; photographer.

BY PLAY

Kayaking, nature, music, grandchildren.

FIRST ACTIVITY TO DO IN KENORA: Check out the events calendar and join in what’s going on.

Husky the Muskie

Summer Events

Whitecap Pavilion walkforalzheimers.ca

33rd Annual Quilt Show

May 29 - June 23

Lake of the Woods Museum

The talented quilters of the Lake of the Woods Quilters Guild are back with another collection of amazing quilts. As always, there will be full-bed quilts, wallhangings, clothing, table runners and more. Visit during regular museum hours (Tue - Sat, 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.) and cast a ballot for the viewer’s choice award.

Matiowski Farmers’ Market

Lake of the Woods Museum

Wednesdays June 19 - October 2

8:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

Whitecap Pavilion

Husky the Muskie

Northwestern Ontario’s largest market, the Matiowski Farmers’ Market, is back all summer long for your artsy, foodie and crafty pleasures. At the market you will find a variety of fresh meats, locally grown fresh produce and delicious baked goods, dips and spreads. As well, local artwork, jewelry and textiles, created by area artisans. The market takes place every Wednesday under the Whitecap Pavilion from June 19 to October 2.

Free Shuttle

Father’s Day Weekend License-free Fishing

8:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Whitecap Pavilion

Coney Island Challenge - SUP Cup Poker Derby

Lake of the Woods Museum Speaker’s Series: La Verendrye’s other route from Jean-Pierre Aulneau, by David Fuller

Grab a shuttle from the Kenora Recreation Centre parking lot every 15 minutes on market days. July 4 – August 22.

ontariofamilyfishing.com

LOW Museum presents By Request Only II

The Comedian Medium - Jennie Ogilvie LOW Brewing Company

Such a great venue showing off a lot of local vendors and artisans. You can buy fresh produce, homemade goods and so much stuff. It’s always a very busy place and the buskers help give it such a fun vibe. I make sure to bring all my out-of-town visitors to the Market.

JULY

LakeRun - Weekly 5k walk/run

Every Saturday 9:00 a.m. Husky the Muskie

Kenora Concert Series

Every Wednesday 7:00 p.m Whitecap Pavilion

Matiowski Farmers’ Market

Every Wednesday 8:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Whitecap Pavilion

Cemetery Tours

Every Wednesday 6:30 p.m. $5 per person. Just show up!

Canada Day Celebrations

1 Whitecap Pavilion

Canada Day Strawberry Social

1 Mather Walls House

Exhibit: Honouring the Jingle Dress

Jul 1 - Oct 19 Lake of the Woods Museum lakeofthewoodsmuseum.ca

Harbourfront Concert Series presents North Shore

3 7:00 p.m Whitecap Pavilion

Kenora Walleye Open

6-7 Tall Pines Marina Catch & release tournament kenorawalleyeopen.com

Kenora Concert Series presents Sideways & Pat Brett

10 7:00 p.m Whitecap Pavilion

Kenora Borealis Swim/Run & Open Water Swim

14 Rabbit Lake kenoraborealis.com

Kenora Concert Series presents JACKSON

17 7:00 p.m Whitecap Pavilion

13th Annual Bronzeback Classic

20-21 Tall Pines Marina bronzebackclassic.ca

Kenora Concert Series presents Standard Time

24 7:00 p.m Whitecap Pavilion

Coney Island 11th ‘Maybe Annual’ Music Festival

29 Coney Island coneyislandmusicfestival.com

Boat shuttles available from Harbourfront docks & Tall Pines Marina

There are a lot of fun activities downtown on Canada Day; I go every year with my family. I like to decorate my bike with ribbons and Canadian flags for the parade. There are always bouncy castles and little tents where you can buy stuff. And, at night time there are fireworks!

Canada Day Celebrations

1 Whitecap Pavilion

Happy Birthday, Canada! July 1 is Canada’s favourite day to celebrate and Kenora is no different. The harbourfront will be abuzz with kids games and play areas around the Whitecap Pavilion and a market teeming with handmade goods, backing, clothing and jewelry inside. The sounds of buskers always delight and the Lake of the Woods Museum offers free admission from 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Keep an eye on Tourism Kenora’s social media leading up to the event to learn about all the activities and entertainment. Fireworks cap off the day around 10:45 p.m., over the harbour. For more information follow on Facebook: TourismKenora

BAY LEE

The classic car show is very impressive. The high number of real classics and the volume of people taking it all in make it an extraordinary daytime attraction.

BOB

THERESA

Lots to be impressed by on KBI Weekend. The early morning take off of 125-plus boats, the nightly weigh-ins and buzz in and around the tent—which is all-ages—and the boat parade on the final day really is a lot of fun, especially when one of our local competitors is in the running.

AUGUST

LakeRun - Weekly 5k walk/run

Every Saturday 9:00 a.m. Husky the Muskie

Matiowski Farmers’ Market

Every Wednesday 8:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Whitecap Pavilion

Cemetery Tours

Every Friday 10:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. $5 per person. Just show up!

107th Kenora Agricultural Fair

1-3 Kenora Recreation Centre kenorafair.ca

Harbourfest

2-4 Harbourfront & Whitecap Pavilion harbourfest.ca

Sioux Narrows Arts Festival

3-4 Sioux Narrows snnf.ca

LOWISA 52 Race Week

3-10 lowisa.org

KBI: Kenora Bass International

8-10 Whitecap Pavilion kbifishing.com

Moose n’ Fiddle Festival

Harbourfest (daytime)

2-4 Harbourfront & Whitecap Pavilion harbourfest.ca

Harbourfest is distinguished as one of Ontario’s Top 100 Festivals and Events. As the largest music festival in northwestern Ontario, Harbourfest anchors the summer’s busiest weekend with nightly concerts, day-time family entertainment, classic car show, wooden boat parade and much more. Harbourfest also features a smashing pyro-musical firework show, over the harbour, Sunday night at dusk.

Saturday, August 3:

» Family Fest with Eric the Juggler, Ken the Magician and the finals of Sunset Country Spotlight

» Fun-tastic Castles inflatables and carnival games

» Lake of the Woods Speedway stock cars showcase

» Arts Fest, in partnership with Lake of the Woods Arts Community

» Make it, bake it, grow it vendor market

Sunday, August 4:

» Pancake Breakfast

» Classic car show

» Wooden boat parade

» Family Fest with local artists and entertainers

» Fun-tastic Castles inflatables and carnival games

» Make it, bake it, grow it vendor market

» Fireworks over the harbour

15-17 Caliper Lake, Nestor Falls moosenfiddle.ca

Grand Opening: Kenora Art Centre

17 LOW Museum & Kenora Arts Centre

Northwestern International Rowing Association Championship Regatta

23-24 Kenora Rowing Club kenorarowingclub.ca

End of Season Blueberry Tea

25 Mather Walls House

SEPTEMBER

LakeRun - Weekly 5k walk/run

Every Saturday 9:00 a.m. Husky the Muskie

Matiowski Farmers’ Market

Every Wednesday 8:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Whitecap Pavilion

Bassin’ for Bucks - Bass Tournament

6-8 Sioux Narrows bassinforbucks.com

Community Family Fun Day

8 Keewatin Public School

Safe Communities Kenora -

6th Annual Family Safety Night

10 4:00 - 7:00 p.m Whitecap Pavilion

Terry Fox Run

15 Valleyview Public School terryfox.org

PLEASE NOTE: Event dates, times and details may change or be cancelled without notice. Please contact Tourism Kenora at (807) 467-4643 for up-to-date event information.

Lake Adventures by Duncan McEwen Top 5 Top 5

Day trip to Sable Island

Sable Island is a trip where the journey is as satisfying as the destination – this is even a bucket list item for many locals! My family and some great friends make this trip a priority every August long weekend. The trip requires some planning and skillful navigation but I promise you once you experience it, you will make this an annual tradition just as we have. As mentioned, the ride itself down to Sable, which is about 70 miles, has enough excitement alone to make the whole trip worthwhile. If you are starting in Kenora, you may go through French Portage Narrows, which is two docks that protrude from shore, keeping you perfectly aligned to run the narrows. Some people take the narrows slowly, others prefer a bit of an adrenaline rush, and take it at speed - it certainly seems a bit narrower at speed!

If you really want to break the day up, you can check in to U.S. Customs, fuel up, perhaps eat at one of the American resorts, and even visit Fort St. Charlesa charming, rebuilt Fort that La Verendrye used in the explorer days. Within the fences of the Fort, you will find observation towers, a chapel with a guest book and donation box, as well as the tombstones representing the massacred French explorers from 1736.

When done at “The Angle”, it is fitting to either take your boat off step and view Massacre Island, or better yet, pull up and hike to the top of the island. From the peak, the view is amazing. Nothing but open water

to the south (Big Traverse Bay) and nothing but a maze of islands and water to the North. I always take a moment to think of what it would’ve been like back in 1736, and how tranquil it would’ve been, not to mention how violent as well.

Next stop!? Sable Island. The last 25 miles of boating is rather uneventful, but can be absolutely mesmerizing as you ply the waters of the Big Traverse. Land becomes virtually obsolete, making your GPS or compass more and more relevant. When you get to Sable, well there’s sand, lots of it… but I can’t give it all away. Just enjoy, and keep an eye on the weather.

BoB

Sable Island – It’s amazing - the big white sand dunes and extremely long shorelines of sandy beaches. The entire ecosystem is so different than the northern parts of the lake. And, the wide open water of the Big Traverse is a unique experience. We try to make a trip every year.

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Picnic meal on an island

A picnic meal on one of Lake of the Woods’ 14,522 islands is an outing often short and impromptu. In fact, not much is better than heading out on the lake after work on a nice evening. Just pick up easy to eat foods from boat friendly establishments like Safeway or Devil’s Gap Marina, or grab some take-out from the restaurant of your choice, and hit the water. Some of my picnic spots are predetermined. Other times, we find new ones.

There are a few things to consider when searching for a spot. Firstly, where is the sun? If you are heading out for an afternoon/evening picnic, you may want a western facing shore. Somewhere suitable to soak up every last minute of its beauty and warmth. Secondly, consider the type of rock/beach on the shore where you are landing your boat. Some of the most perfect looking spots to have a picnic end up being a “nogo” if I can’t safely land the boat, and get everyone

ashore easily. Approach your landing spot with care. rocks that your prop (or boat) find close to shore, often are not on our maps. I’d confess a few of my favourite destination islands are: Queen, Honeymoon, Oliver and Butterfly to name a few.

Islands with shore lunch or camping makeshift tables can be very helpful, as you lay out your picnic buffet. A few tips: always bring a garbage bag, don’t burn aluminum, tin or plastic, and be prepared to take out other people’s trash, because that’s just unfortunately how it is sometimes. I think my favourite part of an evening picnic is the boat ride home. Personally, trolling northbound across the wide open Manitou with the sun to my port, sometimes laughing and talking or even singing, other times silent, cozied into a sweatshirt and a blanket is always a splendid end of the trip.

Kayaking – There are so many bodies of water to explore. Being able to throw the kayak on your vehicle rooftop, driving only a few minutes in any direction and getting in the water gets you away from the hustle and bustle. I find tremendous joy paddling through the waters of our wilderness.

3 Coney Island Beach

If you’re looking for a vintage ‘Beach Bingo’ vibe, this is the place. You’ll have access to good docking, a gorgeous beach, bathrooms, a shelter (with stage), an open field, a park and the Coney Island Snack Shack with delicious food and treats. If you don’t have your own watercraft, there are a few shuttles to take you to and from the island.

You can find a quiet slice of peaceful beach (there’s even a book lending stand in case you forgot to bring yours) or be involved in the friendly social atmosphere. Time spent at Coney is just as energizing as other beaches on the lake, and yet it’s a short paddle or “putt” from downtown. Oh, and on Sundays in July and August, the Snack Shack offer waffles with all the fixings. It’s a great way to have a big Sunday brunch, overlooking the sparkling water of Safety Bay.

KIM

Ancient pictographs and petroglyphs that have survived for over 500 years, still grace the steep rock faces of a number of islands in Lake of the Woods. The drawings were made of berry juice, spruce gum, fish oils or tallow and certain minerals and depicted spirits, animals and less identifiable shapes. These mysterious remnants that still mystify scientists bear evidence of a long Indigenous presence in the area.

Some of the best pictographs I have discovered, and visited many times, are located in the Sioux Narrows area, close to Fergus Island. The Lake of the Woods Museum is a great source of information and can help with insight, understanding and perhaps help point you in the right direction.

4 Rock Paintings 5 Tranquility of the smaller lakes

Lake of the Woods may be our crown jewel of water, but don’t underestimate the smaller lakes in the surrounding areas. Many lakes offer tranquility, clear waters and amazing fishing. I’ve personally had some of the best days on the water, on some of these virtually untouched lakes. You often don’t see another human being, until you are driving home.

There’s a lot to be said to pack your stuff in to these little lakes, maybe catch your lunch/dinner, maybe just enjoy a sandwich on a rock. One of the best outings I can recall was “date night” with my bride, and we packed our stand up paddleboards (SUP). We paddled the shoreline of the lake, in awe of

If you are lucky enough to find some pictographs, they are a significant source of fascination. When you discover them, turn off the motor, contemplate what you see and extend gratitude for the opportunity. If you notice items on the rocks below them, please understand these offerings belong and are not to be removed. These offering may include colorful clothing, and tobacco. Finding and then spending time viewing these artifacts is an extremely humbling experience. Good luck and enjoy.

what was below us. Crystal clear in 4-10’ of water, watching aquatic life below us dart and swim around. We packed a taco salad to eat on a western facing shoreline and watched the warm sun lose altitude. Food seems to always taste better in environments like this, regardless of what it actually is. remember, always tell someone what lake you are going to, and what time you are expected back, as cell phone coverage is usually limited at best.

Duncan McEwen is a full-time outdoor education teacher, fishing guide and tour operator. He spends his summers cruising with his family, friends and guests on Lake of the Woods in search of fish and adventure.

Lake of the Woods Facts:

Lake of the Woods, a translation of the original French name lac de Bois, was named from its wooded setting.

First visited in 1688 by French Canadian explorer and

65,000 miles of shoreline (more than Lake Superior)

115 km North-South

Located in Ontario, Manitoba & Minnesota (largest freshwater lake in the United States, after the five great lakes)

Deepest point 310ft in Whitefish Bay

14,522 Islands

90 km

East-West

Fishing – The freshwater fishing opportunities on Lake of the Woods are extraordinary. You don’t need to go too far to have a good fishing day. With the ecological diversity around the lake and so many species to fish for, the lake offers recreational fishing at its best as well as competitive, international tournament fishing.

Home to: walleye, northern pike, perch, sauger, crappie, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, lake trout, lake sturgeon, whitefish, suckers, muskellunge.

*adapted with permission from Carol Caputo, Destination Northern Ontario, September 2014

Fed by rainy river, Shoal Lake, Kakagi Lake and other smaller rivers; Drains into the Winnipeg river and then into Lake WInnipeg. Ultimately its outflow goes north through the Nelson river to Hudson Bay.

waymarker Jacques de Noyon

DARREN

to buy

Over the past few years, shopping in downtown Kenora has really blossomed. There are really cute boutique stores and a growing variety of shops for visitors and locals alike.

Organic Craft Growing Kit

Grow at home—just like the pros. Simple 4-step process to produce high-quality yields of potent, organic fruit and flowering plants. All you need are the seeds! Sure Thing. 311 Second Street S.

Birkenstock Gizeh

The modern thong sandal from Birkenstock. The Gizeh is an addictive classic with signature support and a refined, minimalist style.

Weekend Adventure & Taggs Source for Sports. 313 Second Street S.

Fishing Spot… Don’t Tell

Original watercolour and India ink painting by Irene McCuaig. Unframed, 22” x 30”.

Inglenook Art Studio. 1051 Railway Street

Hand-painted Glass Panel

Made in Kenora. Original glass panel art by Kris Goold. Fragile Glass Studio. 529 Third Avenue S.

Canadian Diamond Rings

Masterfully set natural and untreated Canadian diamonds, mined in Canada—pure as the majestic ice fields of Canada’s great white north. $299 - $499.

Brennan’s Jewellers.

210 Main Street S.

Birch: Donut Bed by Canada Pooch

Elegant design, luxury texture sherpa cushion, soft and supportive bolster pillow, removable and machine washable bed and cushion cover, non-slim bottom. Sizes and colours vary.

Taylor Made Pet Products. 210 Tenth St., Keewatin

Olaplex #6 Bond Smoother Styling Cream

This concentrated leave-in smoothing cream is excellent for all hair types including coloured and chemically treated hair. OLAPLEX N°6 strengthens, hydrates, moisturizes and speeds up blow dry times while smoothing. Eliminate frizz and flyaways for up to 72 hours.

Posh & Pixie. 209 Second Street S.

Cargo Hauler Duffel by Eagle Creek

Ultra-light duffel constructed with extra-durable, water-repellent fabric. Equipped with gear pockets, grab handles, tie-down daisy chains reflectivity, and self-packing compartment for storage.

McTaggarts. 133 Main Street S.

Lake of the Woods 16oz

Tumbler by Corksicle

Customized Lake of the Woods tumbler. Keep your favourite drinks cold for nine hours or hot for three.

Abundance. 224 Second Street S.

Kenora Pride Anniversary T-shirt

Celebrate Kenora Pride’s 5th anniversary and show your support with a shirt, tank or sweatshirt. All proceeds go towards Kenora Pride events.

Tangled Tree Framing & Gifts. 137 Main Street S.

Chocolate Covered Everything

Chocolate covered almonds, peanuts, coffee beans, jujubes, pecans and much more. Made in-house with premium milk and dark chocolates.

Sweet, Lake of the Woods. 150 Main Street S.

Flash Javs Kit by

Jetboil

The Flash Java Kit bundles our efficient Flash cooking system with the ultrastowable Coffee Press, which stores perfectly inside the cooking vessel.

The Hardwear Company. 106 Main Street S.

Iceberg by Lil’ Wiz Bluetooth Speaker

Breezy Pine

Original fine art by Holly Ann Friesen. 40” x 30” acrylic painting on canvas.

HAF | Art Studio & Gallery. 215 Second Street S.

Great for camping, outdoor parties or table lamp, this water-resistant bluetooth speaker has three light brightness settings, disco light, hands-free mic and a metal ring on the bottom for carrying or hanging.

Donny B. 39 Main Street S.

Lake of the Woods Artican by Corkcicle

The last can cooler you will ever need; keeps cold cans cold for up to three hours!

Exclusive customization: map of Lake of the Woods. Boardanyone.

325 Second Street S.

Field of Daisies

Original, fused glass panel by Elizabeth Wires. Fused clear glass with definition and texture provides the look of stained glass.

Midnight Loon Glass. midnightloonglass.com

Craft Beer Crowler

32 oz can of locally-brewed craft beer. Crowlers are filled daily with LOW Brewing Company’s seasonal selections.

Original Kenora T-Shirt

Limited edition, original design. T-shirts and hoodies available.

Seasons Shop.

124 Main Street S.

Adirondack Chairs

Lake of the Woods Brewing Company.

350 Second Street S.

Sit dockside all summer long in Canadian-made, 100 % recycled plastic Adirondack chairs. Colourful and great looking, these chairs as extremely hefty— they will not blow off your deck.

Image One Home & Cottage. 1060 Railway Street.

APPAREL & LIFESTYLE

Boardanyone

325 Second St. S. | (807) 468-3211

boardanyone.com

Welcome to 15 years of Kenora’s core board shop. The vibe in our 2,800 squarefoot shop is vibrant and fresh. Our award winning customer service has and always will be our first priority. We’re stocked with all the top brands that put Kenora on the map for skateboarding, snowboarding, wakeboarding and paddleboarding. Open 7 days a week. Can’t make it to the shop? Check out our new online store at boardanyone.com.

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Lake of the Woods Brewing Company

350 Second Street S. 1-833-321-2337

lowbrewco.com/shop

Check out all the LOW BrewCo merchandise and grab some beer to-go. Our 106-year old bricks n’ mortar storefront is filled with t-shirts, hoodies, beer coozies, vintage coolers, and so much more. Open seven days a week until 11:00 p.m. If you aren’t in the neighbourhood, shop the gear online at lowbrewco.com/shop.

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McTaggarts

133 Main St. S. | (807) 468-8979

mctaggarts.ca

McTaggarts is famous for its trendsetting fashion. For over 90 years and with outlets across Northwestern Ontario, McTaggarts carries men’s and women’s casual and dress fashions and footwear. McTaggarts boasts some of the most notable fashion brands such as Tommy Bahama, Nautica, Woolrich, Ten Tree, Canada Goose, Tan Jay, Alia, French Dressing, Columbia, Tribal and Point Zero.

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Sure Thing

311 Second St. S. | (807) 468-7809

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If you’re looking for a truly unique shopping experience in the heart of Kenora, you’ll know you’ve found it as soon as you walk through our doors. Our friendly staff are here to greet you at the door and help make your shopping experience enjoyable. We offer an extensive selection of never uncomfortable Sanuk footwear, lots of eco-conscious men’s and women’s wear and hard-to-find gifts from around the world. If your interests lean that way, we have a large selection of 420 supplies, two lines of nutrients for those of the ‘grow your own’ persuasion and knowledgeable staff to guide your choices. We want you to see you again so customer satisfaction is a Sure Thing.

The Hardwear Company

106 Main St. S. | (807) 468-1226

hardwearco.com

The Hardwear Company (THC) is located in the historic Fife building on Main Street, downtown Kenora. With two floors to explore, THC is a must stop while in Kenora. Inside, you’ll find a large assortment of clothing for function and fashion. From bikinis to boardshorts, sunglasses to footwear, kayaks, canoes, paddleboards and wakeboards. While you’re here, be sure to check out our cycling and ski/snowboard shop with a wide range of equipment as well as a service centre! We also rent paddleboards at the best price in town but book early to guarantee availability. The Hardwear Co. should be your first stop before heading out on the water or the trails. Kenora’s paddlesports and cycling experts.

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TEEs • HATS • HOODIES • BEER

ELECTRONICS

Donny B

39 Main St. S. | (807) 468-3084

M donny-b

Celebrating 48 years of serving Northwestern Ontario’s electronic needs, and a trusted cornerstone of Kenora’s downtown business section, Donny B and his staff provide expert advice, great prices and quality customer service to help you pick the right product for your needs. Donny B’s has evolved with the changes in technology, having an incredible selection of TVs, home theatre systems, cell phones, cameras and accessories, satellite TV and internet, tablets and features the full line of Apple products, including Mac and iPad. Donny B’s prides itself on its award-winning custom installations, making your home theatre dreams come true.

GALLERIES & STUDIOS

Fragile Glass Studio

529 Third Ave. S. | (807) 468-7100

M FragileGlassStudio

One of Kenora’s best kept secrets. Fragile Glass Studio is an entertainment experience in shopping. Give yourself the time to wander through the various vignettes and themes, from made (right here) in Kenora, to worldwide giftware and jewelry. Away from the city centre, pass the Clarion Lakeside Inn and turn left on Sixth Street South. Look for the church steeple. Parking always available.

HAF | Art Studio & Gallery

215 Second St. S. | (807) 407-7852

hollyannfriesen.com

Original art, sculpture + pottery from local artists are featured in this art gallery owned and carefully curated by artist Holly Ann Friesen. The gallery also boasts an eclectic selection of fine art supplies, craft kits and unique gifts.

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Happy Little Summer Paintings

Full

Pippi Johnson

WORKSHOP • AUGUST 18

Explore the cyan, magenta, yellow colour wheel. Create with patterns and textures using stencils, collage and printing.

Inglenook Art Studio

1051 Railway St. | (807) 407-1170

inglenookartstudio.com

Inglenook Art Studio is home to artist and studio owner Irene McCauig. Inglenook provides workshops and classes taught by Irene herself as well as special guests with local roots and international fame; this summer, enjoy drop-in and paint classes. Irene’s original paintings, drawings and watercolour pieces are available for purchase in the studio at 1051 Railway Street. This summer, stop by to meet Irene and shop her gallery. Inglenook is open most days, when Irene is in the studio creating. Call ahead for appointments.

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Midnight Loon Glass

(807) 465-5896

midnightloonglass.com

Midnight Loon Glass specializes in handcrafted glass art. Original and custom-made fused and mosaic art pieces can be purchased at the Matiowski Farmers Market. Midnight Loon Glass offers small group (4 participants max) glass workshops that introduce participants to the fundamental concepts and skills to create a glass piece. Workshops include fused, stained and mosaic glass. No experience necessary. Use of tools and glass included in workshop pricing.

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MKenoraStuff

GIFT SHOPS & SOUVENIRS

Abundance

224 Second St. S. | (807) 468-8010

M abundancekenora

Lake of the Woods Mercantile.

Abundance /e’bəndəns/ - plentifulness of the good things of life. Abundance is Kenora’s most treasured shop for kitchen accessories, gourmet foods, home & cottage decor, clothing, jewelry & accessories and baby gifts. The girls are always on the hunt for new and unique items to provide you with a delightful selection to choose from. From everyday needs to those oncein-a-lifetime special gifts, Abundance is full of unexpected treasures.

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The Seasons Shop

124 Main St. S. | (807) 468-3267

M seasonskenora

The Seasons Shop on Main Street is one of Kenora’s favourite boutique shops. Inspired by the beauty of our natural surroundings, we have combined fresh, new products with traditional souvenirs. Featuring Canadian-made moccasins, t-shirts, gifts, and cottage decor. Be sure to stop in at Seasons this summer.

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Tangled Tree Framing & Gifts

137 Main St. S. | (807) 468-6755

tangledtree.ca

Located right on Main Street and offering a unique selection of souvenirs, jewelry, lake maps, and wall art - along with wildlife pj’s and novelty items, Tangled Tree also offers custom framing and canvas mounting. Come and see our selection of “instant” printed souvenir tshirts! Choose a shirt, choose a design & colour, and pick up within a day. Open Mon-Sat during the summer, with select Sundays in August.

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Brennan’s

210 Main St. S. | (807) 468-7922

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Celebrating its 70th year serving the Kenora area, Brennan’s Jewellers is highly regarded for its customer service and fine selection of gold, diamonds—including many Canadian-mined—and large selection of watches, Swarovski crystal and other fine giftware.

Image One Home & Cottage

1060 Railway St. | (807) 468-3641

imageonehome.com

We’re celebrating 40 years as the spot for all your furnishing, window coverings & reupholstery needs for both home and cottage! Living rooms to bedrooms and everything in between, including your outdoor spaces. Our showroom showcases an impressive selection of upholstery & wood furniture, blinds, lighting, rugs and accessories with a Lake of the Woods flavour. Our services include custom blinds and drapes, reupholstery and wicker repair as well as boat top and upholstery fabrication. We also manufacture custom upholstered furniture tailored uniquely to each client. Our consultants work with residential and commercial applications. All

Posh & Pixie

209 Second St. S. | (807) 468-6789

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Posh & Pixie is a trendy salon, spa and boutique in the heart of downtown, carrying hair and skin care products and a variety of pretty things such as jewelry, handbags, wallets, watches, gifts and more. Visit us for a true hairbody - soul experience.

Sweet, Lake of the Woods

150 Main St. S.

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Satisfy your sweet tooth at Kenora’s chocolate shop. Sweet opened in 2017 and has blossomed into a favourite stop for locals and visitors alike. Many of the chocolates are made in-store using the highest quality Belgian chocolate. Sweet also carries Dogwood Coffee, a selection of Spirit Oak teas, and Kawartha Dairy ice cream to satisfy all of your cravings!

Taylor Made Pet Products

210 Tenth St. Keewatin (807) 547-3530

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Good food is the key to good health. Taylor Made Pet Products is proud to offer Holistic Select, Orijen, Carnivora, Acana, Nutrisource, and Eagle Pack food products. As a full line pet supply store with products for all pets, we strive to make your visit to our “little neck of the woods” enjoyable and stress free with life jackets in all sizes, water toys, and holistic tick products to keep your pet safe. We also stock lake-friendly shampoos to keep our lake healthy for future generations to enjoy. We pride ourselves in customer service, quality products and knowledge. Come by boat—we are an easy walk up the street from the Keewatin Government docks. Open Monday through Saturday 9 am to 6 pm; closed Sundays and Holidays.

209 Second St. S • 468-6789

@poshandpixie

online booking & service menu poshandpixie.com

HAIR

BODY | SOUL salon esthetics boutique

BU ILDING DRE A M S

to do Beaches & Playgrounds

Kenora boasts five maintained beaches within the city. Enjoy the scenic shores of Lake of the Woods, the rippling waves on the Winnipeg River and the peaceful ease of Rabbit Lake.

 Keewatin Beach is located in the neighbourhood of Keewatin, just south of Highway 17 West on Keewatin Beach Road. This beach is nestled in between residential properties and offers a wonderful view of Lake of the Woods. Relax in the sunshine along the sandy beach or rest and read in the shady areas available. Peacefulness, gentle waves and fun in the sun are what Keewatin Beach offers.

BAY LEE

It is an easy bike ride to Garrow Beach and the swimming is really fun. It’s shallow for the littler kids on one side of the dock and deeper on the other side to practice diving and swimming to touch the bottom.

 Garrow Beach is located on Rabbit Lake, just north of downtown at the end of Birchwood Crescent. The park is connected to the Rabbit Lake Trail System with a paved accessible path along the water’s edge. Kenora Rowing Club is situated here and recently hosted the rowing competition of the Canada Summer Games. Last summer a brand-new children’s playground was installed adjacent to the beach.

Anicinabe Beach is located just south of Highway 17 East. At the intersection by Canadian Tire, turn onto Mikana Way. Anicinabe Park offers a full-service campground with over 100 sites for trailers and tents. The public beach has a protected swimming area with a wooden walkway crossing from shore to shore. Anicinabe Park loosely translated from Ojibway means ¨gathering place¨ so gather your friends and family and join in some summer fun.

 Coney Island Beach is located in Kenora Bay, minutes from downtown but is only accessible by water. This beach is worth the trip and one of the must-dos this summer. With a wonderful, westerly view of Lake of the Woods, Coney Island Beach offers a large field for soccer, Frisbee or games of choice. There is a small concession on-site, which offers a weekly mouth-watering waffle breakfast; check at the concession to confirm the day of the week. This park is also home to the Coney Island ‘Maybe Annual’ Music Festival on July 29.

THERESA

Norman Beach is located just south of Highway 17 West at the Lake-Vu Co-op intersection in the neighbourhood of Norman. Not only do you have a wonderful view of the action on the Lake of the Woods but you also have the added pleasure of having the Canadian Pacific Railway Museum and Dairy Queen on the same property. Enjoy an ice cream cone, a history lesson on CP Rail or watch the float planes come and go from Safety Bay.

The Kenora Rotary Splash Park is set to open this summer in Norman Park. The splash park features a lake theme and includes playful elements such as boats, animals, trees, fish, birds, etc. The splash park is inclusive and accessible.

Grand Opening: July 6, 2019

I often take my seven grandchildren to one of the City beaches. They are all only a few minutes away from anywhere in town. Each beach provides shallow, safe swimming areas, as well as nearby playgrounds for a variety of activities.

Wibit Sports Park—an inflatable aquatic sports park is coming to Norman Beach this summer.

Trails

Local trail systems are ever-evolving and weave through urban landscape, quiet wetlands and wilderness, varying structures, terrain, distances and usages. Here are the five awaiting your exploration...

There are so many natural experiences within these trails—marshland, Lake of the Woods shoreline and a fantasy-like forest of massive white pines. The trails are expansive enough despite a full parking lot you may not run into anyone else which creates solitude with nature.

 Mink Bay Trail is a provincially designated wetland, nestled in the neighbourhood of Keewatin. The trail includes a grassy and well-worn forest trail, coupled with sidewalks and green spaces through Keewatin’s business district. Feeder trails include the Mink Rapids Trail and Slabtown Way, which incorporate a beautiful wooden walk bridge that leads you to over 82 acres of historically significant cultural landscape.

 Rabbit Lake Trail System is partially inclusive, accessible and paved. The main and feeder trails provide access to the natural beauty and quiet of the south shore of Rabbit Lake. Following the shoreline, the trail meets up with Garrow Park and Beach.

Vernon Nature Area is a unique area that links three very diverse vegetation zones found within Canada. These designated trails will acquaint you with the transition between the Boreal Forest Region, the St. Lawrence-Great Lake Forest Region and the Prairie Grasslands. Access the trails by following the signs along Mackenzie Portage Road, off Highway 17 West.

Rat Portage Urban Trail meanders along flat or gently rolling paved city streets with sidewalks of wood, interlocking brick or concrete starting at McLeod Park, through the downtown core to Anicinabe Park and then along Lawrenson’s Creek and back to city centre.

KIM

 Waa’say’ Gaa Boo (Tunnel Island Trail) is a relationship gathering place with 8,000 years of history, a place where relationship is affirmed, confirmed and maintained. Stunning views of the Winnipeg River and Norman Dam can be seen along the series of trails which make up Tunnel Island. The trail also includes several lookouts and historic points of interest along its path. Please respect the heritage value of this sacred site while enjoying the land.

For complete trail information and individual trail maps, grab a Lake of the Woods Trails Guide pamphlet at the Discovery Centre or the downtown tourist information building adjacent to the Whitecap Pavilion.

 Download the new Kenora trails app for self-guided trips on Kenora’s urban trails. Available in the Apple Store and Google Play Store.

Parks

 McLeod Park is home to Kenora’s mascot “Husky the Muskie” situated on Lakeview Drive just minutes west of downtown Kenora. Husky the Muskie stands 40 feet tall and was erected in 1967. You will enjoy a tour of the McMillan Tugboat and watch the Rotary Goodwill Geyser shoot 200 feet into the air right out of the Lake of the Woods (on the hour for ten minutes).

McLeod Park has beautiful showpiece gardens and is the gateway to the Rat Portage Urban Trail.

Beatty Park is situated in the neighbourhood of Keewatin on Tenth Street and abuts Keewatin Bay on beautiful Lake of the Woods. It has a cenotaph honouring Keewatin’s veterans and is named after Dr. W. J. Beatty who was Keewatin’s first doctor in 1897. Relax at one of the many available picnic tables and watch the boats come and go from the government wharf and nearby Two Bears Marina.

A natural attraction in the heart of Kenora. While walking the beautiful trails you have no idea you’re in the middle of the city. The trails branch a variety of ways for short and long walks.

ALLYSON

Entertainment & Music Festivals

KIM

A wonderful Thursday evening of local musical acts, set with beautiful scenery on the edge of the lake and a relaxed atmosphere. Many local (and sometimes young) talents get an opportunity to play for a crowd. The best part for many is— it’s free of charge.

Coney Island Music Festival

Sunday, July 29, 11:55 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Coney Island Beach

Not your typical day at the beach. Strumming into its 11th “maybe annual” festival, the Coney Island Music Festival is a day for the whole family with five live acts performing on the Coney Island stage. The day includes live music, refreshments at the snack shack, prizes for the kids, shade, one of the nicest beaches on the lake, a fresh dip in the lake and features works and crafts of local artists. The event is free-of-charge for the entire family; you just need to get there.

Boat transportation will be provided from the harbourfront docks by Legacy Tours and M.S. Kenora. Shuttles are also available at Tall Pines Marina, across for the Discovery Centre on Lakeview Drive.

Kenora Concert Series

Wednesdays in July, 7:00 - 8:30 p.m.

Whitecap Pavilion

The Kenora Concert Series is a nonprofit organization focused on providing our community with live musical entertainment. The series consists of four concerts at the Whitecap Pavilion during the month of July. Concerts are open to the public with the only admission being a freewill offering. This summer, a variety of local musicians will perform different genres of music. Please drop by and enjoy.

July 3: North Shore

July 10: Sideways, Pat Brett

July 17: JACKSON

July 24: Standard Time

Local pubs

Many local restaurants showcase live music - local and traveling musicianson a regular basis; many with no cover charge. Track planned summer acts on each restaurant’s respective social media channel.

• Bob’s Burger Bar

• LOW Brewing Company

• Sunset Grill

Lots of fun music and when you’re not listening to the music you can take a dip in the lake. It’s really fun to go up in front of the stage and dance with my friends and family. One of my favourite days of the summer.

BAY LEE

DARREN

A circle on our calendar—August Long Weekend. The concerts are a great time for an adult’s night out after being on the lake or taking in the weekend’s family activities. Each concert—country night, rock or classic—brings new fun and there are a variety of late-night food vendors to appease all of us after the show.

Harbourfest Concerts

August 2-4

Whitecap Pavilion

Friday night: Colemen Hell / Grandson

Saturday night: Sass Jordan / Harlequin

Sunday night: Don Amero / Petric

Piano Project

After a successful inaugural summer last year, the Piano Project is back throughout the streets of downtown. The Piano Project aims to create an accepting environment for people to make music at any time of the day in a public space. The pianos are painted and weather-proofed and placed in high traffic areas of town. Please feel free to find a piano and play as much as you’d like. Share your videos or photos on social media with hashtag: #thepianoprojectkenora. The Piano Project is a service provided by Wolfe Sound & Music.

Moose n Fiddle Festival

August 16-17

Caliper Lake Provincial Park, Nestor Falls

This “little cool festival” returns to beautiful Caliper Lake Provincial Park in Nestor Falls. The music festival is a little Indie, a little folk, a little rock, and a whole lot of fun. Centred around professional and emerging musicians, folk bands and singer/songwriters, this year Moose ‘n Fiddle features acts from musicians such as Red Moon Road, Ben Miller & Anita MacDonald and Big Little Lions. The festival features food trucks, an artisans’ village with potters, painters and crafters, and a craft beer tent with ciders, coolers and Lake of the Woods Brewing Company’s fresh, local, handcrafted brews.

HOW TO GET THERE: Drive south on Highway 71; turn onto Caliper Lake Road which is just south of the community of Nestor Falls.

ALLYSON

Such a fun festival set in the park beside Caliper Lake. The music is fun and interactive - including a Kitchen Party where all the musicians play and everyone gets involved; there are great food vendors; and camping on-site makes the whole weekend a blast.

Arts, Culture & Heritage

Lake of the Woods Museum

Hours, May & June: Tuesday - Saturday, 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Hours, July & August: Every day, 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

The award-winning Lake of the Woods Museum, one of the finest small museums in Canada, was established in 1964 and seeks to promote understanding of and respect for the cultures and heritage of the Lake of the Woods area, and to engage a diverse community in discovery and learning. Today, this well-established museum is home to a varied and intriguing collection of artifacts and thematic displays, exhibits, special events and programming.

May 16

By Request Only II

Concert, featuring local musicians Wayne Kelso, Missy Jacobson, Darcy Ura and Cole Zabloski, is made up of song requested by the audience. Tickets: $25. Proceeds towards audio-visual system for the Arts Centre.

May 28 - June 22

34th Annual Quilt Show

The Lake of the Woods Quilters Guild is back with another collection of amazing quilts completed within the past year. As always, there will be full-bed quilts, wall-hangings, clothing, table runners and more.

June 25 - 26

Summer Speakers’ Series

Historians David Malaher and David Fuller share their research on La Verendrye and Father Aulneau story. Part 1: Examining the Roseau River: La Verendrye’s other route from Fort St. Charles. Part 2: Father Jean-Pierre Aulneau: Insights into his life in France.

July 1 - October 19

Exhibit: Honouring the Sacred Jingle Dress

Featuring up to 30 jingle dresses and their respective stories, photographs by Nadya Kwandibens and audio-visual components by filmmaker Michelle Derosier and sound technician Zoe Gordon, this exhibit honours the sacred jingle dress. The Grandmother Earth Dress which honours missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls will be on loan from the Ontario Native Women’s Association. Exhibit partners: Waasegiizhig Nanaandawe’iyewigamig, Ne-Chee Friendship Centre, Women’s Council of Grand Council Treaty 3.

August 17: Grand Opening of Kenora Art Centre

Day-long activities to mark the grand opening of the Art Centre: tours, art creation projects, demonstrations and more. The exhibits will be featured at the opening.

We’re so lucky to have such a quality museum in a city our size. It’s nicely designed, very personal and the staff are wonderful. I can’t wait for everything the new neighbouring Arts Centre is going to be!

KIM

Lake of the Woods Railroad Museum

Corner of Lakeview Drive and Norman Drive

Open July & August

Caboose: Wednesday - Sunday, 11:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Museum: Wednesday, Saturday & Sunday, 1:00 - 3:00 p.m.

See the huge model railway with elaborate sets and colourful details that shows replicas of rail stations in Vancouver, the steel girder bridge in Stoney Creek and tracks in Winnipeg. Also check out the cramped quarters of the railway workers who spent their lives travelling in the caboose. Artifacts, memorabilia, tools, pictures of railway life and books are also located in the museum building. Look for the yellow Caboose and the red Diesel locomotive next to Dairy Queen.

Kenora new Arts Centre

Grand Opening: Saturday, August 17

Kenora’s new Art Centre, located in Memorial Park on Main Street, will join with the well-established and award-winning Lake of the Museum, to build an even stronger cultural presence in a city bursting with artistic talent. As a place that will inspire and support artists, encourage creativity, present learning opportunities, strengthen community bonds and build our own unique identity, the Centre will be a dynamic art space. Exhibits of national, regional and local significance will be complemented by a strong program of artistic “learn and play” opportunities.

The impetus for building the Arts Centre was the offer to the Museum of a significant collection of the Lake of the Woods works of noted Canadian artist Walter J. Phillips. This collection, owned by summer residents Nicki and Bryce Douglas, includes wood cut prints (for which Phillips was considered a Canadian pioneer), wood engravings and water colours. Each highlights Phillips’ nuanced interpretations of the beauty of the lake that defines the Kenora area.

ALLYSON

Arts Hub

325 Second Street South

The Arts Hub offers a comfortable and inspiring space located in downtown Kenora where artists of all abilities gather to explore a wide offering of artistic experiences. The Hub provides a creative environment where people are encouraged to discover their unique talents through artistic expression; the numerous art initiatives hosted throughout the year are open to the entire community.

A sample of the Hub’s ongoing hosting includes: Yoga—Weekly gentle Hatha yoga is open to all abilities and levels.

Rise to the Rhythm—Biweekly hand drum circles welcome everyone from beginners through to seasoned percussionists.

Visual Arts—From painting and clay through to felting, the sessions and workshops explore a variety of visual arts media.

Music—Jam Nights and ongoing musical events will be highlighted on our monthly calendars.

The monthly calendar of activity can be accessed at kacl.ca.

Lake of the Woods Cemetery Tours

Wednesdays in July & August Lake of the Woods Cemetery

Guided & hosted by: Braden Murray, LOW Museum Educator From Rat Portage to Lake Life: A People’s History of Kenora

Discover the history of the Lake of the Woods Cemetery going all the way back to the original Union Park Cemetery in 1887. True stories of the men and women who helped make Kenora what it is today. This tour looks at the rough and tumble lives of the earliest pioneers to the present day with special attention given to the history of the cemetery and the symbolism found within.

The Dark Side: Blood, Guts and Ghosts of Rat Portage

Hear about the blood, guts and ghosts from Kenora’s past; true tales that caused Pierre Burton to dub Kenora “the roughest town in Canada”.

THERESA

It shouldn’t surprise anyone that cemeteries are very interesting. The LOW Cemetery Tour provides a look into some of Kenora’s fascinating history—like the Bank Robbery Bomber. A different type of attraction that visitors, and residents, should really take in.

The new downtown Arts Hub is extremely inviting. The staff are kind and helpful and willing to give a hand to every individual. They have a great rotation of programming in all mediums of art: visual arts, music, storytelling, culinary arts and much more.

In the Heart of Sioux NarrowsNestor Falls

Let this be your guide to a fun-filled day on the eastern shores of Lake of the Woods. There is much to see and do in The Township of Sioux Narrows-Nestor Falls, so let’s get started. If you Google the Township right now, you’ll come across images of pristine wilderness and small-town sites that seem to be lifted right out of a fairytale.

Stuff To Do Stuff To eat Stuff To SEE

#getoutdoors #walkatrail #packapicniclunch

Throw a frisbee. Go kayaking. Eat some s’mores. Start and end the day in the great outdoors. There are day-use areas, picnic shelters, and pristine beaches to enjoy at Sioux Narrows Provincial Park and Caliper Lake Provincial Park. In between, treat yourself to a day chock-ablock full of shopping, eating, and soaking up the smalltown charm that stakes a claim on the idea that “bigger isn’t always better”.

#artsfestivalinsiouxnarrows #moosenfiddleinnestorfalls

Two great events in August, starting on the long weekend with the Arts Festival in Sioux Narrows: a rare opportunity to purchase arts and crafts directly from the artisans. Come see why artists keep returning to the Arts Festival in Sioux Narrows, year after year!

This cool little festival at the lake returns to Nestor Falls on August 16th and 17th with eight genre-crushing musical acts including Siouxperboat, Fu Fu Chi Chi Choir, Nice Horse, and Midnight Shine - just to name a few! Rounding out the Festival experience is an Artisans Village (crafters-of-allsorts), a craft beer tent (all proceeds supporting the Keewatin Curling Club and the Women’s Shelter Saakate House), regional food trucks serving up their incredible street eats - Gropps Meats and The Black Oven Pizza Truck. It’s all happening under a canopy of tall pines and along the water’s edge at Caliper Lake Provincial Park. For more information, visit moosenfiddle.ca

#casualdining #cocktailsonthepatio #pizzatogo

By land or by water—there is something for everyone in Sioux Narrows and Nestor Falls. We’re sure you’ll agree that a visit is in store. The mere mention of “stuff to eat” evokes the thought of fish n chips, ice-cream stands, and shoreline lunches. From sun-up to sun-down, there are madgenius chefs and mixologists cooking up amazing dishes and classic cocktails.

Northern Ontario Sportfishing Centre

Take a step back in time at the Northern Ontario Sportfishing Centre (NOSFC) and explore the history and heritage of the region. Here you will find de Havilland float planes, a replica of a Boston Whaler, and the Sioux Narrows wood truss bridge, in miniature and built to scale.

White Moose Golf Course

Touted as one of the Top 14 golf courses in Northwestern Ontario, the White Moose Golf Course, carved out of the Whiskey Jack Forest, is a 9-hole, par-35 course. The next time you are a planning a day-trip, book a tee time, take a drive along the King’s Highway (#71), and don’t forget to pack a set of golf clubs.

DARREN

A boat trip from Kenora to Sioux Narrows showcases some very unique aspects of Lake of the Woods. Most notably, the water colour change in Whitefish Narrows. Our family does a day trip or two every summer and we hit up the shops, grab some food or ice cream and play a round of mini-putt.

to eat

Kenora has great restaurants with great variety—casual dining, some a bit more fine, different types of cuisine, food trucks... so many are within walking distance from a dock or boat landing for when you come off the lake at the end of the day.

8oz of prime New Zealand lamb right off the rack. Served with soup and salad, fresh vegetables and garlic toast. Plaza Restaurant. 125 Main Street S.

Layers of corned beef topped with sauerkraut, mozza cheese and thousand island dressing. Grilled and served on rye bread. Bob’s Burger Bar. 152 Main Street S.

Paidakia 

 Reuben Sandwich

Fish & Chips 

Firehouse English Nut Brown Ale battered walleye, malt vinegar tartar sauce, tangy scallion slaw, fresh cut fries.

Lake of the Woods Brewing Company. 350 Second Street S.

Chicken & Rib 

Sweet chili glazed chicken breast with half rack of our chipotle maple BBQ ribs. Served with vegetables, soup/ salad and choice of potatoes and rice.

Yesterday’s Restaurant. 800 Highway 17 E.

Steak Sandwich 

Smokey 8oz N.Y. Strip done to your liking and topped with house onion rings and flamed mozzarella cheese on grilled marble rye.

Clarion Waterside Restaurant & Lounge. 470 First Avenue

Seafood Di Mare 

Seared prawns & scallops flambéed in Amaretto, fresh cream, diced peppers and garlic herb butter, served over fettuccine noodles.

Ristorante Pizzeria Italia. 230 First Street S.

Chef Salad 

Cucumber, tomato, peppers, green onions, cheese, fresh turkey, ham, egg.

Uptown Restaurant. 204 Second Street S.

New York Highrise Club 

Ham, corned beef, Swiss, mozza, onions, mayo on rye bread.

Ho Joe Coffee & Eatery. 103 Main Street S.

Dockside Sirloin Gorgonzola 

Aged 12oz sirloin steak chargrilled to your liking. Finished with rich gorgonzola topping and skillet mushrooms. Boathouse Waterfront Eatery & Nightlife. 320 Matheson Street.

Hap’s Chicken Fingers 

Hand-crafted in-house chicken tenders fried crispy served with fries and Caesar salad and homemade honey dill dipping sauce.

Sunset Grill. 129 Bernier Drive.

Olympian God 

A taste of everything Greek! One skewer each of marinated pork tenderloin, chicken and shrimp souvlaki. Served with soup & salad and choice of garlic mashed, lemon-roasted potato or rice pilaf. Dino’s Restaurant. 206 Second Street S.

CASUAL & FINE DINING

Clarion Waterside Restaurant & Lounge

470 First Ave. S. | (807) 468-5521

choicehotels.ca/cna65

Get together here, at the Clarion’s Waterside Restaurant & Lounge. Sitting atop the Clarion Lakeside Inn, the Waterside Restaurant offers a one-ofa-kind view of Kenora and Lake of the Woods to enhance your dining pleasure. Whether you want a first-rate dining experience or pub-style meal, our menu and daily specials have just what you’re looking for. Come for the view; come back for the whole package.

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The Boathouse Waterfront Eatery & Nightlife

310 Matheson St. S. | (807) 468-6565

theboathousekenora.com

Situated on the north shore of Lake of the Woods in downtown Kenora, the Boathouse is Kenora’s premier waterfront restaurant venue. Its lakeside patio gives it unmatched appeal in dining leisure and enjoyment. With late-night hours, daily specials and expanded beverage menu, stop by for delicious food, tasty drinks and a lake view second to none.

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Uptown Restaurant

204 Second Street S | (807) 407-0561

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Enjoy home-style cooked breakfast and lunch at Uptown Restaurant. Nestled in a cozy dining room on Second Street, Uptown has an expansive and delicious menu; serving breakfast and lunch specials every day. Uptown is known for its fast and friendly service and has a very kid-friendly atmosphere. Open 8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

Yesterday’s Restaurant

800 Highway 17 E | (807) 468-3155

Yesterday’s Restaurant is situated in Kenora’s Travelodge Hotel on Highway 17 East. Open 7 days a week 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. there is no excuse you’ve missed it. Yesterday’s Restaurant is one of the most fabulous places for breakfast in town. Indulge in the breakfast special or famous steak and eggs benedict. During lunch, serve up home-made soup and daily feature. The dinner menu offers burgers, steak, veal, ribs and much more. This family style restaurant is licensed by Thirsty’s Lounge. Make Yesterday’s Restaurant today’s dining selection, you won’t regret it.

MKenoraStuff

CAFE

Ho Joe Coffee & Eatery

103 Main St. S. | (807) 468-6111

hojoe.ca

Lay low with friends in the cafe and enjoy the same signature favourites such as the Blondie, LOTW Lemonade and our famous HJ Frozen Hot Chocolate. Healthy, wholesome food offerings include cakes, tarts, muffins, scones, brownies as well as fresh salads and Paninis. HoJoe’s baristas take personable service one step further by handwriting quotes on our cups to help make your day. Staff will also direct you to our Pay-it-Forward board where you can buy a ‘cuppa joe’ for anyone you choose.

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MEDITERRANEAN

Dino’s Restaurant

206 Second St. S | (807) 468-3103

dinosrestaurant.ca

Ristorante Pizzeria Italia

230 First St. S. | (807) 468-4560

pizzeriaitalia.ca

Viva Italia! Fresh pasta is a staple in our kitchen but ingredients like extra virgin olive oil, vine-ripened tomatoes, aged balsamic vinegar, fresh basil and delicious imported Parmesan cheese are also a huge part of everything we cook. Siblings Marc and Christina carry on the 28 year tradition of family-based Italian cuisine. Their father, Enzo, continues to help by inspiring old world traditions to ensure the true taste of scratch sauces, pizza and northern Italy-inspired recipes elicit your taste buds. Located in downtown Kenora, experience true Italian cuisine.

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Plaza Restaurant

125 Main St. S. | (807) 468-8173

plazakenora.com

The Plaza is celebrating 50 years! What began as a simple diner back in 1969 has evolved into one of Kenora’s iconic restaurants. The Adamopoulos family introduced Kenora and the Lake of the Woods area to the Mediterranean diet and the “Greek” way of life through their love of great food, fine wines and warm hospitality. Not a fan of Greek food? No problem. The Plaza also offers delicious pastas, full-flavoured steaks, and of course mouth-watering Lake of the Woods walleye. Open for lunch Thursday & Friday, dinner Tuesday to Saturday. Follow us on Facebook for our daily Early Bird feature and specials.

PUBS & GRILLS

Bob’s Burger Bar

152 Main St. S. | (807) 468-4701

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Home to the “Fat Bob,” a succulent 5.2 oz, fresh-never-frozen, homemade chuck ground patty, decked to the top with lettuce, tomato, mayo, onion, pickle and Bob’s special chili. And, there’s more to love than the burgers. Serving a variety of soups, salads, sandwiches and wraps, along with prime rib and seafood nights, Bob’s Burger Bar is an open concept lunch and dinner restaurant with second-level seating, large projection screen and a 10-beer draft system. Bob’s is also open for breakfast through the summer. Private functions available. Follow on Facebook for music events, trivia nights and more.

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Sunset Grill

129 Bernier Drive | (807) 468-4015

sunsetgrillkenora.ca

Offering an efficient and friendly dining experience in the heart of Kenora’s beautiful harbourfront, Sunset Grill welcomes you for fresh and delicious homemade meals. The outdoor patio along Bernier Drive overlooks the harbour with a landscape view of the float planes, M.S. Kenora and Whitecap Pavilion. Sunset Grill offers dine-in, take-out, daily lunch and dinner specials, and hosts live music every Friday night. Open seven days a week.

Lake of the Woods Brewing Company

350 Second St. S.

1-833-321-2337

lowbrewco.com

Proud to be Ontario’s northernmost brewery. Located in Kenora’s historic firehall in downtown Kenora, the Taproom & Eatery offers upscale pub-style grub with a local, northern twist. Pair your favourite menu items with our fresh, local, handcrafted beer! There is always something on tap and the malty goodness will be sure to keep you coming back, again and again. When the sun is shining, and the large, glass garage doors are open: enjoy the great outdoors and the streetscape on Second Street! There is always room to catch your favourite sporting events on one of the ten bar-mounted TVs. We have been blazing a trail since 1898 and the best part of the journey, is the friends we have made along the way. So, don’t be a stranger, come visit Lake of the Woods Brewing Company at 350 Second Street S.

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KENORA & LAKE OF THE WOODS

AT A GLANCE

15,096

8 KEY SECTORS

The population of the City of Kenora is 15,096 per the 2016 Census. The median age is 44.9 years. In the summer months, the population doubles as seasonal residents are drawn to the water based playground of Kenora and Lake of the Woods.

The economy of the City of Kenora is primarily driven by eight key sectors including healthcare, public service, tourism, construction, value-added forestry, manufacturing, mining services and culture and recreation.

40 AREA

Kenora offers a wide variety of dining options at over 40 area restaurants featuring local and regional fare. Residents and tourists alike enjoy opportunities to dine on outdoor waterfront patios or at restaurants located in heritage buildings.

1 AMAZING MUSEUM

CAA called it one of the coolest little museums in Canada. The Lake of the Woods Museum was established in 1964 and seeks to promote understanding of and respect for the cultures and heritage of the Lake of the Woods area, and to engage a diverse community in discovery and learning.

2 PUBLIC LIBRARIES

There are two libraries in the City of Kenora: the Kenora branch and the Keewatin branch. The collections, consisting of more than 67,000 books, magazines, as well as audio and video tapes, can be viewed online or at the libraries.

There are two school boards in Kenora: Keewatin Patricia District School Board with an enrollment of 5,200 and Kenora Catholic District School Board with an enrollment of 1,480 in 2016.

5 PUBLIC BEACHES

2 2 RESTAURANTS SCHOOL BOARDS

The City of Kenora has five public beaches: Anicinabe Beach, Garrow Park Beach, Keewatin Beach, Norman Park Beach, and Coney Island Beach.

POST-SECONDARY INSTITUTIONS

Confederation College and Seven Generations Education Institute offer post-secondary education and training opportunities in Kenora.

I’ve lived in some big cities, and you just don’t get the same opportunities in terms of outdoor life and cost of living.

The big benefit to working here in Kenora, is being able to be a generalist. You do the in-patient care, you do the deliveries, you assist with surgeries, you do emergency medicine - so there’s a lot more breadth in your career and it’s a lot more rewarding to be able to help your patients through all the stages instead of just sending them off and waiting for them to come back with some solution. I think it’s a better care model.

The lifestyle is what you focus on when you live here. Here, if you want to go out for whatever your recreational activity is - whether it’s kayaking, white-water canoeing, downhill skiing, snowmobiling, fishing, etc, you walk out your door and you’re doing it.

Visitor Resources

Northern Ontario Sportfishing Centre

Canada’s only facility dedicated to the history of sportfishing, the attraction doubles as a tourist information centre.

Illuminated by natural light that streams in from the floor to ceiling windows, the centre is home to fascinating exhibits featuring antique fishing equipment generously donated along with nostalgic sentiment by some of the town’s oldest local residents. Some of these donations include a collection of vintage motors, an original Haas boat and an old Boston Whaler that are all accompanied by their own individual histories. This charming glimpse into past fishing techniques is sure to install a sense of wonder and amazement in any observer.

sportfishingcentre.com

Located in the heart of Sioux Narrows on Highway 71.

Hours, May 17 – September 2 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., 7 days a week

Lake of the Woods Discovery Centre

The Discovery Centre has recently acquired various display components to enhance itself as a tourist destination. Experience a vintage outboard motor collection as well as Northern Nature Traders exhibit.

Outside the Discovery Centre you can experience the interpretative forest which depicts natural species with signage in English and Ojibway. This signage explains the uses of the many species by the First Nations Peoples. The Discovery Forest is truly a grass roots culture experience.

The Lake of the Woods Discovery Centre explores the many aspects which make Kenora so unique – come discover for yourself! Located at 931 Lakeview Drive, Kenora. (807) 467-4636 or toll free 1-800-535-4549

Hours, June 1 – August 31

Sunday – Thursday, 8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Friday & Saturday, 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.

•WELCOME TO THE•

LAKE

Welcome to our playground. Cabin Country realty ltd. Started in 1990 with the intention of helping families and couples find their perfect getaway property in some of the most spectacular scenery in Canada – Kenora and Lake of the Woods. Since then, we’ve assembled an expert team and helped just about every type of lakefront buyer and seller in the area. Let us help you find your next vacation home, forever home or investment property and this area will be your playground too.

www.cabincountry.com

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