We asked our friendly, welcoming and knowledgeable residents for insider tips on the “can’t miss” experiences that will feed your curiosity while wandering our small towns and countryside. When it comes to arts and culture in the region, locals know best! Here are their top picks!
Rails End Gallery & Arts Centre in Haliburton
“The Rails End Gallery & Arts Centre is always a welcoming, fun place to be. Located in Haliburton’s historic train station, adjacent to beautiful Head Lake Park, it offers interesting art exhibits, a lovely gift shop, and ongoing activities such as the Haliburton Art & Craft Festival, Art Attack Children’s programming, [concerts], plus much, much more!” – Victoria, West Guilford
School House Museum in Deep River
“The Schoolhouse Museum has something of interest for all ages. It stimulates memories and curiosity.” – John, Deep River
Old Hastings Gallery in Ormsby
“The Old Hastings Gallery, owned and operated by Lillian and her husband, musician Gary Pattison, is housed in an 1890s general store in the wee ghost town of Ormsby (population 20) in Eastern Ontario. Besides the gallery space, there are many retail theme rooms that feature a wide variety of gift ideas including many Canadian artists and artisans.” – Andrew, Belleville
Railway Museum of Eastern Ontario in Smiths Falls
“The Railway Museum found in the town of Smiths Falls is an amazing museum. It has a variety of rolling stock that it showcases including some unique pieces. It’s focus is the beautiful Canadian Northern station built to compete with the CP station in town. It shows an important and fascinating part of Canadian History and invites you to explore it as well, allowing you to step into the Cabooses and Boxcars while offering Handcar and/or Speeder rides. The staff there is wonderful and the volunteers, who are passionate and very knowledgeable and willing to share a tale about the railroad make a trip to this museum unforgettable.” – Colin, Smiths Falls
Heritage Village at Farmtown Park in Stirling
“Walking through the Heritage Village and the experience of being in our past, gives a feeling of pride in our nation’s rich Canadian history and who we are and where we have come from, historically and today. It is something all Canadians of all ages should experience.” –Gary, Stirling
The Minden Hills Cultural Centre in Minden
“The Minden Hills Cultural Centre is an extraordinary place where you can find fabulous art with a focus on the Canadian landscape, a unique historical museum and a unique straw bale sustainable building, and a large beautiful library with free internet access.” – Sheryl, Minden
Polish Kashub Heritage Museum in Wilno
“The words ‘amazing’ and ‘awesome’ are often used in visitors’ comments in our guest books at the Polish Kashub Heritage Museum in Wilno. These compliments about our historical and cultural displays and heritage log buildings are often accompanied with words of thanks for our efforts to tell and preserve our unique Polish Kashub history in Canada at the museum.” – Shirley, Wilno
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Ontario’s Highlands Insiders
Knowledgeable in uncovering hidden gems, making fresh tracks, embracing new perspectives, and disconnecting from the everyday, this group of experts is happy to share their wisdom with you. With a passion for local stories, a love of delicious food, and a thirst for unrehearsed days, this team is made up of creative minds and wandering souls.