Tiny Ontario - Brockville
Brockville, a small city of about 20,000 people, located in Eastern Ontario lies about 40 minutes away from home, via a gorgeous drive up the 1000 Islands Parkway. It's an incredibly scenic route along the water with a front row seat to the1000 islands, many with their incredible cottages on full display. Pink granite randomly bursts out of the ground along the parkway making for an even more dramatic effect. It's a beautiful drive in any season but add in the changing of leaves in the fall, and it's chef's kiss! I would highly recommend getting off the 401 Highway between Brockville and Gananoque anytime.
When we feel like a drive up the parkway, it usually takes us to Brockville. As locals, we often find ourselves following the same routine - starting with a walk around the picturesque waterfront which is parkland and open to the public. It's nearly always full with families walking with kids and dogs, or weekend warriors out for a jog. This is followed by lunch, normally at the 1000 Islands Brewing Company, then a walk around downtown, and up Courthouse Avenue. This impressive street is flanked with heritage buildings, and a flower lined boulevard running up the middle. At the top of the hill lies the courthouse with a requisite fountain. Just off the avenue the road splits with streets flanking either side of the courthouse. These host several impressive churches with beautiful spires finished with intricate roof tile patterns, that would never be constructed today. And the day is normally capped at Richard's Coffee House. He has great coffee and sweet treats to sustain us for the ride home.
If you are looking to play tourist there are a couple of fun things to do in Brockville:
the Aquatarium - a science and educational museum that focuses on the history of the 1000 Islands and the St. Lawrence River. Some of the favourite exhibits include the adorable river otters, aquariums and the resident Justin Beaver who was rescued as a young pup, as well as various marine exhibits. It's well worth a stop in. https://www.aquatarium.ca/
walk the Railway Tunnel - this railway tunnel was built in the mid 1800's to link the then industrial waterfront to the Brockville-Ottawa railway. This half kilometre tunnel has been restored (and lit) to become a unique walking trail for residents and tourists alike. https://brockvilletourism.com/things-to-do/brockville-railway-tunnel/
Fulford Place - I haven't made it here, but one of the main tourist attractions is the slightly unusual Fulford Place. Senator George T. Fulford built his fortune selling "Pink Pills for Pale People" from Brockville to the world. Between 1899 and 1901 he built an over the top 20,000 square foot Edwardian mansion overlooking the river. https://www.heritagetrust.on.ca/properties/fulford-place
And finally, in the last couple of years I have noticed a new development. 1000 island cruises are offering tiki cruises which can be booked for both public and private tours. There are different cruising options to chose from. This looks like an adorable way to spend an afternoon out on the water. https://www.1000islandscruises.com/tiki-cruises/
