Frost & Flair: Winter Wonders in Brockville and Merrickville

Winter can be a magical time of the year, offering the opportunity to slow things down and unwind after the holidays. The crisp air and dancing snowflakes will have you appreciating the cozy comforts of all the great indoor activities that the region has to offer. From discovering the history of the area, taking in the local arts scene, or tapping into a new talent you didn’t know you had - winter is the perfect time for new experiences!

Day One: Brockville

Start your visit to the area in Brockville, the city of the 1000 Islands! Nestled along the shores of the St. Lawrence River, Brockville offers stunning views of the seaway, combined with the convenience that comes with being in the city. Check in to your stay at the Sir Isaac Brock Bed & Breakfast, located just a short stroll from downtown Brockville, the B&B is perfectly situated for exploring the city’s waterfront beauty and vibrant cultural scene. This gorgeous property was built in 1824 and has the perfect blend of historic charm and modern comfort, offering the creature comforts you’ve come to expect on a weekend away with their lovingly maintained suites.

After getting settled in at your accommodation, pop over to the From Here to Infinity Gallery & Bookstore, located a short walk away on King Street. This unique space is more than just a gallery or a bookstore—it’s a vibrant hub where creativity and imagination come to life. Immerse yourself in the stunning works of talented local artists; from breathtaking paintings to intricate sculptures, every piece showcases the depth and diversity of the region’s creative community. It’s the perfect spot to find a one-of-a-kind treasure or simply admire the beauty of artistic expression! They often also host events, workshops, and readings that bring people together to nurture a love for creativity and learning.

Next, head to dinner at The Noshery Steakhouse. Don’t let the name fool you - while they are able to boast the award for “Best Steak in Brockville” from Restaurant Gurus, their menu also features a selection of vegetarian dishes such as ricotta ravioli, stuffed portobello mushrooms and vegetable and chickpea stir-fry, so there is something for everyone to enjoy. After dinner head back to the Sir Isaac Brock B&B to rest up for the next day’s activities.

Day Two: Brockville

Enjoy a fresh start to your day with breakfast at your accommodation, or head into the downtown core to Richard’s Coffee House or Tait’s Fresh Start for a breakfast out on the town. After fuelling up for the day, head over to Fulford Place for a tour of the 20,000-square-foot Edwardian mansion. The property itself is a masterpiece of early 20th-century design. From its elegant Beaux-Arts architecture to the meticulously restored interiors, the mansion showcases the opulence and grandeur of a bygone era and offers a window into the lifestyle of the city’s elite during the early 20th century - allowing visitors to imagine what life was like at the height of prosperity in the region. This experience will need to be booked in advance as Fulford Place adopts seasonal hours during the winter months, but they are happy to accommodate booked tours by phone or email.

After your tour, keep on theme with an authentic British tea experience at Cosie’s British Tearoom & Café. The owners, Alison and Paul Goodyer, emigrated from Devon in 1990 and brought their passion of cooking to Brockville. Their menu features savoury and sweet selections handcrafted using local and imported UK ingredients to provide an authentic taste experience. Try their cornish pasty or a classic scone with jam and clotted cream with your favourite pot of tea.

Spend the afternoon at the Brockville Museum to learn more about the history of Brockville. Explore permanent displays that bring Brockville’s heritage to life, from its role as a hub of industry and commerce to the unique stories of its citizens, learn about the evolution of the area and its growth into the "City of the Thousand Islands." They also regularly feature travelling and temporary exhibitions that cover a wide range of topics, from the summer Olympics to the 200 year history of the local newspaper. The museum is a must-visit location to get connected with Brockville’s past.

Head back to your accommodation to freshen up before heading back out for dinner at 1000 Islands Restaurant & Pizzeria, which has been serving the Brockville area for over 50 years. Family owned and operated, they have created a comfortable and casual dining experience for generations. Their menu is stacked with Greek favourites like gyros and souvlaki, as well as pasta dishes and casual dining comfort foods like burgers and sandwiches. Truly their pizza is the star of the menu - heralded locally as the best pizza in town!

For lovers of the arts, history, and exceptional entertainment, the Brockville Arts Centre is a must-visit destination after dinner. Boasted as one of Canada’s finest heritage theatres, they offer a diverse array of performances, including live music, theatre productions, comedy shows, dance, and film screenings. Be sure to check out their website for their upcoming performances and showtimes so that you can score tickets! Whether you’re captivated by a heartfelt play, moved by a symphony, or laughing at a stand-up routine, the experience stays with you long after the curtain falls.

Day 3: Merrickville

Departing Brockville and heading north to Merrickville, Ontario - dubbed “Canada’s Most Beautiful Village” in 1998, this little village is situated along the historic Rideau Canal system. Merrickville is the epitome of small-town charm with its stone buildings and locally owned and operated stores and restaurants. Start your morning in Merrickville by meandering around their wonderful artisan shops and galleries.

• Anarchy Gallery - prints, posters, clothing and jewellery, the Anarchy Gallery features the works of local artist Angelina Wrona. You can even stay overnight at their comfortable and cozy Anarchy Loft located above the gallery.
• Maureen McAuliff Gallery - the studio and gallery of local artist, Maureen McAuliff, highlighting her original paintings. Maureen also offers workshops to make your visit more memorable with a take home piece you hand-create yourself.
• MonSky Gallery - showcases one -of-a-kind ceramics, pottery and fused glassworks created by owner and artist Monica Viola, as well as a collection of other local artists specializing in different mediums. 
• Gather Brewing & Glassworks - not your traditional arts experience, as Gather is Canada’s first (and only!) glass-blowing studio and craft brewery. Peruse their handcrafted blown glass, or participate in a glassblowing workshop and top off your visit with a tasting of Ontario craft beer on tap!

Score some hearty winter fare to warm up at the Yellow Canoe Café. Known for its cozy atmosphere, fresh, locally inspired menu, and welcoming vibe, this charming café is a favourite for both locals and visitors alike. Every dish at the Yellow Canoe Café is crafted with care, using ingredients that support local producers. It’s not just a meal; it’s a taste of the region and its rich culinary heritage! From delectable soups and creative sandwiches to vibrant salads, every bite is packed with flavour and thoughtful preparation.

Take some time to learn in the afternoon by attending a workshop through the Merrickville Arts Guild. Their membership will offer workshops open to the general public to try their hand at a new creative skill - you will have to check out their website to stay up to date on what is available during your visit. Nothing tickles your fancy? You can always book a workshop experience through the Maureen McAuliff Gallery or Gather Brewing & Glassworks to get the opportunity to create your own souvenir from your visit to Merrickville.

Grab dinner and stay the night at the Baldachin Inn, right on the corner of the main street of Merrickville. Built in 1860, the Baldachin Inn was once the largest department store between Chicago and Montreal. Nowadays, the property is home to 19th-century European-inspired accommodations and dining experiences. Their cozy rooms blend rustic charm and contemporary comfort, so your stay will feel like a home away from home. Enjoy a meal under the grand chandeliers of the ballroom or sip a drink in the cozy pub; their menu covers a selection of tapas, full entrees and pub fare options - with such variety, everyone is bound to find something they’ll love! 

The next morning, start your day off on the right foot with breakfast and a specialty coffee from The Village Bean Coffeehouse. The ‘Breakfast Special’ is a must-try, alongside fresh-baked muffins, bagels, and egg wraps that’ll fuel your day. Or treat yourself to ooey-gooey cinnamon buns or buttery baked goods like date squares and lemon loaf—perfect with your morning coffee! Before you head home, you will want to stop into the great locally owned stores in Merrickville to pick up some goodies as souvenirs. Be sure to check out Pickle & Myrrh for handmade soft caramels, Mrs. McGarrigle’s Fine Foods for their in-house mustards and chutneys, and Wick Witch Apothecary for locally crafted candles and self-care products.

As the snowflakes fall, let the cozy comforts, creative pursuits, and welcoming communities inspire your next getaway. Start planning now and make this winter one to remember!