Best things to do on a Walking Tour of Almonte, Ontario
The historic village of Almonte Ontario is a charming town located on the banks of the Mississippi River, just 35 minutes west of Ottawa. This scenic mill town with just over 5000 residents is sprinkled with beautiful waterfalls, quaint patios, lively riverside eateries, unique shops, and a distinct local heritage. Almonte is often called "Mini Hollywood North", as it's small town charm and picturesque streets have provided the perfect backdrop for numerous movies. Take a day trip to Almonte and discover a unique gem in Lanark County.
Historic Buildings
Old Town Hall
On the south bank of the Mississippi River on Bridge St. you'll find Almonte's Old Town Hall. Built in 1885 by local builder George Willoughby, this historic stone structure once held the council chambers, library and auditorium, and is a great example of German Romanesque revival style architecture.
Almonte Post Office Building
Built in 1890, the Old Post Office Building is an iconic building in Almonte. It was designed by Thomas J. Fuller, a Dominion architect best known for his design of the original Centre Block of Parliament in Ottawa. It's the most recognizable and prominent structure in Almonte with its green copper clocktower (added in 1913), visible from all over the town.
Victoria Woolen Mill No.2
One of the earliest mills in the area is the Victoria Woolen Mill, constructed by James Rosamond in the 1850's. This interesting 5-sided structure is one of the only remaining mills in Almonte, and highilghts the importance of the textile industry to the town’s heritage. Now converted into riverside condos and home to Joe's Italian Kitchen and the Heirloom Cafe & Bistro, the building still maintains its historic charm.
Outdoor Walking Paths
The Almonte Riverwalk
The Mississippi River and it's series of waterfalls are a highlight of any trip to Almonte. The Riverwalk is a beautiful riverside path that leads you from Almonte’s Old Town Hall to Victoria Woolen Mill. Along the way you'll catch great riverside views from the boardwalk which snakes under the old train bridge, as well as from lookout points along the way. Don’t forget to stop and admire the Grand Falls - a multilevel waterfall that cascades gracefully through town . The entrance to the Barley Mow's waterside patio and Joe's Italian Kitchen can also be found along the Riverwalk, two great spots to enjoy a drink with a view.
Metcalfe Geoheritage park
The Metlcalfe Geoheritage Park is the first geoheritage park in Canada. Throughout the park you'll find samples of sedimentary rocks dating back over 440 million years, as well as igneous and metamorphic rocks of Precambrian age (which are over a billion years old!). Take a stroll through the park, or bring your own boat and paddle along the peaceful Mississippi River past riverside homes and quaint cottages. Don't miss the art installation at the entrance of the park, Shelter/Tissage , a sculpture created by artists Stephen Brathwaite, and Jennifer Ryder Jones to commemorate Canada 125 in 1992. The intriguing installation is constructed of 55 faces of people from all over Canada which have been cast into glass and built into a structure intended to reference the structures of aboriginal communities and the development of Canada as a nation.
Riverside Restaurants
The Barley Mow
One of the most popular and well know spots for a riverside pint is the iconic Barley Mow, located just off the Riverside Trail. This mainstay in the city is located on the banks of the Mississippi River in an original Mill building featuring exposed stone and rustic wooden beams. It has a large two level patio for outdoor dining and serves up classic pub favourites from morning to sundown.
Joe’s Italian Kitchen
Located in the historic Victoria Woolen Mill, Joe's Italian Kitchen is a great spot to enjoy a local brew or some classic Italian comfort food. The restaurant has an stunning patio seemingly hovering over the nearby waterfalls - the perfect place to have a meal while watching the sunset over the Mississippi River.
Quick Eats
Baker Bob’s
There are no shortage of spots for foodies in Almonte's historic downtown. Baker Bob's on Little Bridge St is known for their homemade bagels and bread - they also make a mean butter tart that is worth the stop.
Tea and Cake
If you're looking for a spot for a quick bite, Tea and Cake is a quaint spot to stop for a snack or light lunch. If you're celebrating a special occasion, they have a beautiful high tea complete with fluffy scones, delicate finger sandwiches and a wide variety of fragrant teas.
The Almonte Ice Cream Shop
The Almonte Ice Cream Shop is a staple in downtown Almonte, and the quintessential spot for a scoop on a summer afternoon. Enjoy a cone while strolling by historic buildings, or grab a scoop and relax riverside.
Equator Coffee
For those craving a caffeine fix, Equator Coffee is a must-stop spot in Almonte. Founded in 1996 this local roastery roasts and serves 100% fair trade organic specialty coffee. Grab a latte or an iced Americano as you wander the city, and don't forget to grab a bag of freshly roasted beans for a tasty home brew.
Unique Shops
Almonte has a great selection of unique shops, perfect for an afternoon of retail therapy. Search for antiques and vintage finds at Almonte Antique and Collectibles, or shop for modern vintage decor and hand made items at Tin Barn Market. For chocolate lovers, head out of the main historic downtown to Houston St. and explore Hummingbird Chocolate. This local chocolate maker is known around the region for their unique chocolate blends including Strawberry Pink Pepper, Fleur de sel, Raspberry and Nib and Candied Giner. Pick up a few bars for a stroll around town, and take home some extras for those late night cravings.
You can find more information to plan your trip to Almonte here.
*Some businesses may be closed or have reduced hours due to covid-19. Please check hours of operation before visiting.
