22 things to do in Fenelon Falls, Ontario

Whether you’re into outdoor adventures, boutique shopping, local eats, or simply relaxing by the water, there are plenty of things to do in Fenelon Falls. To help you plan your visit we’ve put together a few suggestions.

Kick things off with Fenelon Falls breakfast

Begin your day of discovery in Fenelon Falls with breakfast. Here are two scrumptious options to consider:

White Cottage Café

This is a coffee house that also serves up breakfast fare. Pop in here if what you crave is a breakfast sandwich, croissant, bagel or Danish.

Each week they surprise their patrons with something new—for example it could be pumpkin spice muffins, so be sure to ask if there’s a specialty item on the menu that morning.

Of course being a coffee house the White Cottage Café is the place to indulge your desire for a particular perk. Enjoy an espresso, cappuccino, café mocha, caramel macchiato, latte and more. They also offer a variety of teas including their delicious chai tea latte.

The Locker at The Falls

The Locker at The Falls is a great choice if your preference is to start your day with a home-style breakfast.

Sit down to a classic breakfast of two eggs, bacon or sausage, home fries and toast. They can also whip up a variety of omelettes, eggs benedict (special shout out to their salmon benny and crab cake benny) and a hearty breakfast poutine that will hit the spot.

Get your bearings on a bike

A fun thing to do and a great way to get familiar with Fenelon Falls is to explore the village on a bike. Didn’t bring your wheels with you? No problem. You can rent a bike. Just head to Lock 34 in downtown Fenelon Falls and look for the Bikeshare display. Bikes can be rented by the half hour or for the day.

Cycle the main street to see what stores you’ll want to check out later. Hit the side streets and take in the charm of the local neighbourhoods. Follow the Trent-Severn Waterway to the beach area and then escape into nature with a pedal down the Victoria Rail Trail.

Admire The Falls

The centrepiece of Fenelon Falls is The Falls. Located next to Lock 34, The Falls stands 20-feet tall and approximately 180 feet wide, with water pouring over it from Cameron Lake into Fenelon River and a limestone gorge before it disperses into Sturgeon Lake.

To the right of The Falls is a power generation station. Water that’s diverted from The Falls is used to produce 2.6 megawatts of power–enough to provide electricity for up to 2,000 homes in the area.

For the best views of The Falls head over to the green-space island located between the waterfall and Lock 34. Or make your way to The Locker at The Falls restaurant. Their upper and lower dining areas both provide great sight lines of The Falls.

Go for a paddle

The Kawartha Lakes tourism website suggests two paddling routes in Fenelon Falls that are suitable and safe for a wide range of paddlers.

The first route is the Lower Reach of Lock 34. To embark on this paddle, park your vehicle on Colborne Street and then portage your canoe or kayak down the paved pathway to the canoe steps at Lock 34. The steps are located just past the base of The Falls and make for a convenient and easy launch of your vessel.

Once in the water head in an easterly direction, away from the falls, and down the gentle Fenelon River. Take in the spectacular limestone walls and be on watch for herons and osprey soaring overhead or diving to pluck a fresh fish from the water.

Here’s a link to a map of the route: https://www.explorekawarthalakes.com/en/explore/resources/Paddling/Route-Printables_Lock-34.pdf

The second option is the Garnet Graham Beach Park – Cameron Lake route.

The launch spot for your canoe or kayak is the beach area which is a short portage from the park’s parking lot.

Once you and your crew have launched from shore, the suggested route is to head westward out into the bay and then go north, gradually paddling eastward towards the shoreline, which you can then follow southward back to the launch area at the park beach.

Going on this paddle will provide you with waterfront views of boats passing by, the picturesque shoreline, and the homes and cottages along the way. Plus, you never know what birds and wildlife you may spot.

Here’s a link to a map of the route: https://www.explorekawarthalakes.com/en/explore/resources/Paddling/Route-Printables_Garnet-Graham.pdf

Take in a little Fenelon Falls history

Lock 34

A must thing to do in Fenelon Falls is to check out Lock 34 of the Trent Severn Waterway. It connects Cameron Lake in the west to Sturgeon Lake in the east. To see it in action make your way to Island Park which is situated between Lock 34 and the dam off Colborne St. (TIP: If you want to enjoy an ice cream as you watch, pick from one of the 31 flavours available across the street at Slices N’ Scoops.)

As you observe Lock 34 and the boats passing through it, here are a few facts to consider:

• After three years the construction of Lock 34 was completed in 1885.
• Originally, it was a ‘flight’ lock or two small locks in one. In 1964 it was converted into the large, conventional lock you see today.
• To transfer a boat, the lock will raise or lower the water 24 feet.
• It takes only four minutes to empty the lock. The time it takes to fill the lock varies depending on the size and number of boats in the lock.
• July and August see the most lock traffic—it can be a hundred to two hundred boats a day.

Maryboro Lodge Museum

Maryboro Lodge Museum building was constructed in 1837 and is one of the oldest structures in Fenelon Falls. Originally a private residence, it later became a tourist lodge when its first owner ran into financial difficulties. Eventually, the lodge became public property and opened as a museum in 1963.

Inside the museum there are a few permanent displays, including a historic school house setting and the Allen Wood Play Space which features wood toys that were manufactured by Allen Wood Products, once the largest employer in Fenelon Falls. The company created famous items like Tinkertoy and the “pounding bench.” These all-wood toys were loved by children across Canada and sold in Sears and Eaton’s stores throughout the country.

The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions such as art and photography displays so there’s always something new to see.

Go on a FREE walking tour of Fenelon Falls

Get to know a little about the history, people and landmarks in Fenelon Falls by going on the Legends & Lore Walking Tour.

This self-guided tour is free and can be done using your smart phone. Pop in your headphones and listen to the accompanying audio or read the information yourself that explains each of the 14 stops.

You’ll learn the stories and facts behind Lock 34, McArthur House Hotel, the Fenelon Marquee Sign, the Livery Stable, Victoria Railway Bridge and more. Tour is approximately 45 minutes in length.

Discover inspiring artwork

Fenelon Station Gallery

If you’re seeking an original memento of your visit to Fenelon Falls the Fenelon Station Gallery is definitely worth a stop. Featuring the work of local artists, the gallery is set in a restored railway station that was originally built in the 1880s.

Artwork here includes stained glass, paintings, photography, pottery, felting, leather, weaving and more. The work is wonderful and the prices are reasonable. There are artists demonstrations from time to time as well. Check the galleries website for who’s scheduled next.

The gallery is open from June to September.

Colborne Street Gallery

Does your artistic taste lean towards contemporary? If so, you should visit the Colborne Street Gallery in Fenelon Falls.

Original expressions come in many forms here, from paintings, drawings, photography and sculpture to fibre and mixed media arts. The range of artists is equally eclectic, ranging from local Kawartha-based creators to Canadian and international creators.

It doesn’t matter if you’re shopping for your home, cottage or workspace, you’ll find an inspiring piece that will add distinction to your décor.

Pick up some fresh, local produce

If you enjoy discovering locally-made products and picking up fresh produce and goods, make plans to visit the Fenelon Falls Farmers Market.

Beginning the first long weekend in May, and running until Thanksgiving weekend in October, the market operates every Friday from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM in the lot located at Bond Street and John Street.

The market features a nice variety of vendors. You’ll be able to pick up everything from fresh produce, herbs, garlic and berries, to meats, sauces, jams, jellies, preserves and maple syrup, to baked goods, wine, plants, candles, soaps and woodwork pieces.

Pause for a treat

Ready for a break from exploring Fenelon Falls? Treat yourself to something decadent or scrumptious. Here are just some of the delicious choices.

The Little Pie Shack

The Little Pie Shack is easy to find on Francis Street East in Fenelon Falls–just look for the hot pink building.

Here the menu features 19 types of pies, including three specialty pies—key lime, peanut butter chocolate cream cheese and strawberry glazed. But this place produces more than pies. They also make yummy butter tarts, mini cheesecakes, crumbles, squares and tea biscuits.

Feel like a sandwich, wrap or hot dog? They’ve go that covered too.

And they also sell various kinds of drinks including freshly-squeezed lemonade, smoothies and milkshakes.

Grab a slice or a cone, or both!

Slices N’ Scoops in Fenelon Falls is a great place to satisfy two cravings at once. If it’s pizza you desire you can grab a slice or order a whole pie. If that’s not enough you can add a side order of fries, poutine, onion rings, chicken fingers, wings, garlic bread, deep fried pickles, nachos or a salad.

For drinks there’s water, pop or slushies.

As for the ice cream at Slices N’ Scoops there are 39 flavours to choose from in your choice of regular or waffle cone. Want to go big? They also sell sundaes, banana splits, funnel cake, milkshakes and floats.

Get a frozen yogurt fix

Prefer frozen yogurt over ice cream? You’re in luck. Fenelon Falls is home to arguably the best frozen yogurt in the Kawarthas. It’s available at the Country Cupboard Health Food Store where they create their fro yo using a classic Whirl-a-Whip machine. Have yours made from one of eight fruits or create a custom combination.

Beers and chocolate

If you’re a craft beer aficionado you’ll want to stop in at the Fenelon Falls Brewing Co. An award winning brewer, the company takes pride in producing unique flavour profiles and seasonal beers that reflect the relaxing, chill vibe of the Kawarthas.

Chocolate your other guilty pleasure? You’ll be pleased to know that right in the same building is the Waterbridge Café and Confectionery. Here you’ll find decadent chocolate delights, biscuits and candy. Enjoy!

Hike or bike the trail in Fenelon Falls

The most popular place in Fenelon Falls to go for a hike or bike ride is the Victoria Rail Trail. The trail is actually 85-kilometres long. It stretches from Kinmount in the north to Bethany in the south. Right in the middle of the trail is Fenelon Falls. Along this stretch you’ll enjoy serene scenic views of the water and forest and the sounds of nature all around you.

The easiest place to access the trail is from Garnet Graham Beach Park where you will also find a large lot that has free parking. As for the trail, it’s flat, wide and paved or limestone-covered in most stretches so it’s suitable for all ages to embark on.

Swing the sticks

Is hitting the links one of your favourite activities to do when on vacation? In Fenelon Falls you’ve got three golf courses to choose from or if you’re spending the week tee it up at all of them!

• Byrnell Golf Club is an executive-style 9-hole course. Don’t let the term “executive” fool you—this course requires solid shot-making and steady control throughout your round. Its tight fairways and challenging greens make it a great place to fine-tune your accuracy. Before you tee off, you can warm up at their pitching and chipping zone and putting green.

• Set along the scenic north shore of Sturgeon Lake, Sturgeon Point Golf Club is a charming 9-hole course that has been a favourite with golfers since 1899. Its generous fairways make it inviting for beginners, while experienced players will appreciate the test posed by strategic doglegs, mature trees, and a flat yet thoughtfully designed layout. If you want to sharpen your skills there’s a well-equipped practice area, which includes a driving range, putting green, chipping/pitching zone, and a practice bunker. TIP: For added convenience, visitors can arrive by boat too, thanks to the course’s private dock.

• A few minutes east of Fenelon Falls you’ll find Eganridge Resort, Golf Club & Spa. This scenic 9-hole course features a traditional parkland layout, with shorter holes that appeal to golfers of all skill levels. Whether you prefer walking or riding, the choice is yours. The club also offers practice facilities—including a driving range, putting green, and a area dedicated to pitching and chipping.

Book a fishing charter

Cameron Lake and Sturgeon Lake, which are on either side of Lock 34 in Fenelon Falls, both offering outstanding fishing.

Cameron Lake is home to walleye, perch, muskie, and bass while Sturgeon Lake boasts smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, walleye and muskie.

Increase your chances of reeling one in by hiring a local guide who knows the lake. Here are a few fishing charters to choose from.

GOAT Angling Adventures
– Lakes: Cameron Lake and Sturgeon Lake
https://www.goatanglingadventures.ca/

J. Smith Fishing Charters
– Lakes: Sturgeon Lake
https://www.jsmithfishingcharters.ca/

Jesse Kerr Fishing
– Lakes: Cameron Lake and Sturgeon Lake
https://jessekerrfishing.com/

Williams Outfitters
– Lakes: Cameron Lake and Sturgeon Lake
https://williamsoutfitters.com/

Note: you will need a fishing license to go on a charter. You can purchase a one-day sport fishing card at any Service Ontario location.

Enjoy a beach day

There’s no better thing to do in Fenelon Falls in the summer than to hit the beach.

Soak up the sun and enjoy some lakeside fun at Garnet Graham Beach Park, located on the shores of Cameron Lake in Fenelon Falls.

This family-friendly spot features a sandy beach with a long, shallow entry—perfect for little ones to splash and play safely. Kids will love the large playground with a zip line too, and there’s an awesome splash pad nearby.

Older visitors can hit the beach volleyball court or the ample green space for a pickup game of soccer or to toss a ball or frisbee.

Want to go on a scenic walk or bike ride? The Victoria Rail Trail runs right through the park. Lastly, there’s free parking, a snack bar and nice, clean washroom facilities.

Have an unforgettable play date

Fenelon Falls is home to the best outdoor kids play area in the Kawarthas. It’s located at the Maryboro Lodge Museum across from Garnet Graham Beach Park.

Designed to spark curiosity and creativity, the grounds are filled with hands-on activities that invite little ones to jump right in. Your kids can build their own forts and tunnels with boxes, make giant bubbles, and test their skills with jumbo-sized lawn games like chess, checkers, Jenga and bowling.

And that’s not all.

There’s also a variety of interactive experiments and stations that will mesmerize your kids and engage their young minds. The outdoor playground at Maryboro Lodge Museum really is a child’s dream.

Get some shopping in

If you love a good day of shopping, you’re going to be glad you decided to spend time in Fenelon Falls. Here are just a few of the local retailers you should stop by to do a little browsing and buying.

Barn & Bunkie

On a quest to find something unique to decorate your cottage or home? Barn & Bunkie is a must visit then. Furniture, rugs, bedding, towels, kitchenware, lighting, baskets, forever flowers and greenery, and to-die-for candles are just some of the things you find here.

Curious?

They say variety is the spice of life and that’s exactly what’s in store at Curious? This eclectic shop in Fenelon Falls includes original art, pottery, furniture, soaps and jewellery created by local artisans and artists. There’s natural bath and body products. Pick up a luxurious, cozy cotton quilt set and add a conversation starter to your home or cottage by purchasing one of their retro toys. Oh, and they have fibre art supplies and hold workshops too.

The Butterfly Boutique

Add to your wardrobe by shopping at The Butterfly Boutique where you’ll find on-trend, fashionable clothing at affordable prices. This chic boutique has everything you need to step out in style—beautiful clothes, shoes, purses and accessories. They even carry breathable, comfortable, luxurious Italian linen tops, pants, shorts, dresses and jumpsuits.

Designs By Dylan & Home Décor

Besides assisting people with decorating their home, designer Dylan has a storefront where he sells home décor items. There’s something for every taste and every week new items are added to the selection.

Waters Edge Décor & More

Waters Edge Décor & More is a vibrant, multi-vendor shopping experience in downtown Fenelon Falls, located right beside the locks. This charming shop is bursting with local pride, offering town- and lake-themed casual wear, eclectic home décor, unique gifts, and vintage treasures. You’ll also find artisan creations, seasonal accents, and a sweet selection of fudge, brittles, and more.

Fenelon Marketplace

Fenelon Marketplace is a treasure trove of antiques, Canadianna, and collectibles, spread across two stores in the heart of Kawartha Lakes. With items thoughtfully chosen to spark nostalgia, the shop offers everything from vintage wall décor and jewellery to books, music, clothing, and rare memorabilia. It’s even supplied props for TV and film productions.

Snow and Sand

Located in a beautifully restored 1870s livery stable at 12 Francis Street West, Snow and Sand is a one-of-a-kind shopping destination in Fenelon Falls. “Snow” celebrates the magic of the holiday season with Christmas décor, ornaments, stockings, and cozy Cross Road Candles. “Sand” brings the sunshine with stylish swim and beachwear for the whole family. Plus, there’s custom embroidery available on-site too, so you can personalize everything from tea towels to Fenelon Falls swag.

Catch a live show

The Grove Theatre in Fenelon Falls offers a theatrical experience unlike any other in the Kawartha Lakes region.

To get to your seat you walk along a wooded path until the theatre suddenly opens up before you—nestled in the natural surroundings and under the open sky. As evening falls and the venue lights up, the setting becomes truly enchanting.

The amphitheatre design means every seat offers a great view of the stage. There’s also a concession stand offering drinks and snacks and well-maintained washroom facilities.

A repertory production or a performance by a celebrated Canadian artist–whatever show you decide to take in you’ll feel a sense of magic in the air at The Grove Theatre.

TIP: Be sure to bring along bug spray in case mosquitos decide to join you in the audience.

Places to grab a bite in Fenelon Falls

If your stomach’s growling and it’s time for lunch or dinner, Fenelon Falls features a variety of dining destinations that will make for an enjoyable, satisfying meal.

The Locker at the Falls

Located beside the Fenelon River and just steps from the bridge overlooking the falls, The Locker at the Falls offers one of the best dining views in the village. With two levels of seating and windows that frame the cascading waters, it’s a perfect spot to relax and enjoy a meal. The menu is packed with flavour, featuring everything from wings and flatbreads to towering Big Boy Burgers and hearty mains like the Tomahawk Pork Chop. No reservations needed—just show up hungry!

Lotus Indian Bistro

Treat your taste buds to authentic Indian flavors at Lotus Indian Bistro. Here they combine age-old recipes with modern techniques to create exquisite Indian dishes that some have called the best Indian food in the Kawarthas and on par with any Indian restaurant in the GTA. Popular selections include: onion pakora and vegetable madras, lamb vindaloo, lamb biryani, butter chicken, chicken tikka, lamb rogan josh, roasted egg plant, samosas, naan and for dessert–gulab jamun cheesecake.

Ziraldo’s Italian Steakhouse

Ziraldo’s Italian Steakhouse is a family-owned fine dining establishment inspired by the rich flavours of Northern Italy. From fresh oysters and fried brie to homemade pastas, prime rib, and seafood dishes like salmon and lobster, every plate is crafted with local ingredients and passion. And be sure to save room for indulgent desserts like tiramisu and tartufo.

The Cow and Sow

The Cow and Sow serves up all your pub-style favourites, from crispy fish and chips to saucy ribs, wings, nachos, and cheesy quesadillas. Start with an app or fresh salad, then save room to share their famous mud pail brownie for dessert—it’s as decadent as it sounds! With daily lunch, dinner, and drink specials, there’s always something new to enjoy. It’s a laid-back, flavour-packed place perfect for any day of the week.

Murphy’s Lockside Pub & Patio

Murphy’s Lockside Pub & Patio delivers Irish pub charm to the heart of Fenelon Falls and an outdoor patio where you can sit and watch the boats passing through Lock 34. The menu is packed with flavourful favourites—don’t miss the fries with curry sauce, brisket Reuben, jalapeño burger, fish tacos or wings tossed in Nashville hot sauce that bring serious heat.

Fenelon Fish & Grill

Fenelon Fish & Grill is a local favourite known foremost for its crispy battered fish & chips. Bring your appetite and loosen your belt a couple notches because here the portions are generous. From chowder to coleslaw everything is delicious and reasonably priced. For those who are not seafood lovers there are lots of other tasty options on the menu including burgers and sandwiches. Eat in, at the counter, or out on the patio.

Texas Burger

Texas Burger serves up flame-grilled homemade hamburger patties and fresh-cut fries that keep locals and visitors coming back time and time again. Want to change it up? Try the Texas Chicken Crunch—a perfectly breaded, all-white-meat chicken breast that’s deep-friend to crispy perfection. With its location right by Lock 34 in Fenelon Falls, Texas Burger makes a great option for enjoying a picnic lunch by the Trent-Severn Waterway.

Conclusion

Whether you’re here for a day or staying for a while, Fenelon Falls offers things to do for everyone—from paddling peaceful waterways and exploring charming shops to catching live theatre under the stars. With its unique eateries, scenic trail, and lakeside experiences to enjoy, it’s easy to see why Fenelon Falls is a favourite getaway in the Kawartha Lakes region.

Discover Bobcaygeon, just a few minutes away

Staying in the Kawarthas for more than a day or two? Another place to check out that’s close to Fenelon Falls is Bobcaygeon, Ontario. To get a head start of what to see and do read our article “Things to do in Bobcaygeon, Ontario.”

Feature Photo Credit: TripAdvisor