Stewart Park
Perth's centrepiece, behind the Town Hall: footbridges, gardens and the Tay River splitting into streams. It's free and, by the donor's wish, kept free of commercial sales. In July it hosts the free Stewart Park Festival.
The Tay River and canal
- Paddle it: local outfitters rent kayaks, canoes and stand-up paddleboards.
- Walk it: the Tay River towpath runs about 10 km toward the Rideau, past Last Duel Park.
- Cruise it: seasonal guided boat tours on the Tay Canal pass the 1834 towpath and the Tay Marsh.
- Locks: the Beveridges lockstation joins the Tay Canal to the Rideau.
History
Last Duel Park marks the site of the last fatal duel in Upper Canada. Downtown, look for the replica of the famous 22,000 lb "Mammoth Cheese" made locally in 1893.
When to go
- Late April: Festival of the Maples
- July: Stewart Park Festival
- Fall: colours along the Tay, and the Perth Fair on Labour Day weekend
- Winter: holiday lights and events
Nearby
Murphys Point Provincial Park is a short drive south. Westport, a lakeside village with a big lookout, makes a good second stop.
Drive times are from downtown Ottawa with normal traffic. Hours and seasons change, so check the venue's own site before you go.
FAQ
How far is Perth, Ontario from Ottawa?
About 83 km, or just over an hour's drive southwest.
What is there to do in Perth, Ontario?
Stroll Stewart Park, paddle or walk the Tay River, visit Last Duel Park, take a Tay Canal boat tour in season, and eat along the historic downtown.
When is the Festival of the Maples in Perth?
It's held in late April, at the end of the maple syrup season.
The weekend, sorted
One short email on Thursdays: what's worth doing in Ottawa and the Gatineau Hills this weekend, and nothing you'll skip.
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