Retail & Shopping

Unique Shopping Experiences

Local shopping is part of the experience in South Eastern Ontario as this region is a treasure trove for unique finds. There is a surprise around every corner here and some stores embody that through and through.

Take, for instance, Trousdale’s General Store, known as Canada’s oldest general store; a mainstay tucked away in Sydenham and Land O’ Lakes region since 1836. Shopping here is an experience. Although the store is historic, the products are hand-picked, fun and trendy – guaranteed smile inducers.

Small town boutiques are brimming with lovingly-made jewellery, decor, artwork and artisan foods – all perfect for gift giving, or for treating yourself! Shops line the streets in small town retail meccas like Westport and Merrickville along the Rideau Heritage Route, beckoning to be explored.

Many shops offer handmade items from local artisans, too. Artisans from across the region team up to produce craft shows and makers’ markets that are the place to find truly unique quality handmade items. Shows like the Maker’s Hand in Prince Edward County in the fall showcase works from local artists. Find pottery, glass works, wood turning and more!

South Eastern Ontario is home to many creative craft fairs such as the Rotary Craft Show in Gananoque, the Heritage Valley Arts and Craft Show in Cornwall or the Fat Goose Craft Fair in Kingston.

Uncover antiques

Going antiquing isn’t just about the final purchase – half the fun is the hunt for the perfect piece! With so much heritage at its core, South Eastern Ontario has an abundance of historical antiques ready for the picking. The region’s antique shops are packed full of choices including vintage clothing, jewellery, hats, distressed furniture, lighting, tools, folk art…  the list goes on!

Antique dealers and shops across South Eastern Ontario are happy to help you find that one-of-kind treasure, leaving you with an exceptional keepsake purchase.

South Eastern Ontario discovered some of the best flea markets and antiquing spots around. Read on to reveal what vintage curios can be had across the region.

If you time your visit right, you will also want to check out the action at a local auction – there is always a deal waiting to be had in South Eastern Ontario!

Shopping destinations

South Eastern Ontario enjoys the amazing distinction of having unique shopping experiences in both urban and small town locations. Historic downtowns in our cities are bursting with trendy and locally-inspired stores, while our more rural areas play host to authentic shops that live and breathe the welcoming way of life in South Eastern Ontario.

Larger cities with excellent shopping choices include: Cornwall, Brockville, Kingston, Napanee, Belleville and Trenton. Smaller towns offering terrific finds include: Morrisburg, Prescott, Gananoque, Westport, Merrickville, Smiths Falls and Picton plus all the villages and hamlets between.