Lindsay Travel Guide

Explore Lindsay, Kawartha Lakes, Central Ontario, Canada with our comprehensive travel guide with a list of places to visit, things to do, and tips.


Introduction to Lindsay

Lindsay is a picturesque community situated in the heart of Kawartha Lakes, in Central Ontario, Canada. With its natural beauty, rich culture, and friendly locals, Lindsay is the perfect destination for a relaxing getaway. The town boasts a vast network of lakes and rivers, charming downtown, an array of tourist attractions, and a vibrant food scene, making it a favorite destination for tourists.

List of Places to Visit in Lindsay

Here’s a list of the must-visit tourist attractions in Lindsay:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Boyd Heritage Museum: showcasing the history of the town and its founder, John Boyd.
  • Olde Gaol Museum: a historic former jail that now houses artifacts from the town’s past.
  • Academy Theatre: a historic theater that stages concerts, plays, and other events.

Natural Attractions of Lindsay: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lock 33: a historic lock that’s part of the Trent-Severn Waterway National Historic Site.
  • Ken Reid Conservation Area: A 1100-acre park with beautiful trails, birdwatching, and a marsh.
  • Queen Elizabeth II Wildlands Provincial Park: A protected provincial park with beautiful scenery, camping, and water access.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Lindsay

If you’re looking for scenic routes to hike or bike, here are some great options:

  • Victoria Rail Trail: A 55-kilometer trail that runs from Lindsay to Kinmount showcasing beautiful views of countryside scenes.
  • Kawartha Trans Canada Trail: A 11 km trail stretching through Lindsay, beautiful scenery and connecting area trails.
  • Scugog Shores Heritage Trail: A scenic 22 km trail through Port Perry and Lindsay showcasing historic sites and scenic views of Lake Scugog.

Best Things to Do in Lindsay: Activities and Tours

When it comes to activities and tours, Lindsay has plenty to offer, such as:

  • Boat Tour: Take a leisurely tour of the Victoria Rail Trail with the Kirkfield Lift Lock Boat Tours.
  • Horseback Riding: Check out Spiritwood Trail Rides to experience the gorgeous landscape of Kawartha on horseback.
  • Lindsay Gallery: Explore the beauty of art at Lindsay Gallery, featuring a variety of art exhibitions, workshops, and events.

Week-Long Itinerary for Lindsay

Here’s a suggested week-long itinerary for a perfect vacation in Lindsay:

Day Activities
1 Visit Boyd Heritage Museum and explore the town’s downtown shops.
2 Hike the Victoria Rail Trail and enjoy the stunning countryside views.
3 Take a boat tour of Victoria Rail Trail with Kirkfield Lift Lock Boat Tours
4 Visit the Olde Gaol Museum and Queen Elizabeth II Wildlands Provincial Park
5 Indulge in delicious local food and drinks at local restaurants.
6 Visit the Ken Reid Conservation Area, enjoy a hike, birdwatch, and a marsh stroll.
7 Do some souvenir shopping at local shops before your departure.

Food and Drink Scene of Lindsay

The culinary scene of Lindsay is full of flavor and variety, making it a perfect destination for foodies. Here’s a list of must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Butter tarts are a Canadian favorite, so head to the Butter Tart Tour to try local Bakeries’ Squares and hand-crafted treats.
  • Sample the locally sourced lunch and dinner menu, including refreshing cocktails or beer at the Pie Eyed Monk Brewery & Restaurant.
  • Try one of the tasty wings or classic Canadian dishes at the Grand Experience - Corey’s Restaurant.

Local Beverages

  • Sip award-winning craft beer at the Pie Eyed Monk Brewery & Restaurant.
  • Stop by Wakeford’s Foodland to sample the best local wines or browse a selection of provincial beer and spirits.

Where to Stay in Lindsay: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are plenty of accommodation options in Lindsay to choose from, such as:

  • Days Inn & Suites Lindsay: A quaint hotel perfect for a relaxing stay.
  • Eganridge Resort, Golf Club & Spa: A premier resort that offers an award-winning restaurant, spa, and golf.
  • Lady Eaton House Bed and Breakfast: a charming bed and breakfast in a historic building decorated with antique furnishings.

What to Buy in Lindsay: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Lindsay offers a variety of locally made products perfect for souvenirs or gifts:

  • Handmade pottery from the Kawartha Potters’ Guild.
  • Maple syrup from the Maplewater Farm.
  • Local wine or beer from Wakeford’s Foodland.

Local Culture and Customs of Lindsay

Lindsay has a rich and diverse cultural history, including First Nations & British settlers, and the history of the Canadian railroads. Locals take care of the area; visitors should be respectful of nature and contribute to small-town business.

Best Time to Visit Lindsay

Summer is the best time to visit Lindsay. With long days, beautiful weather, and plenty of outdoor activities makes it perfect for exploring the region and having many outdoor adventures.

Do’s and Don’ts of Lindsay

Here’s a list of do’s and don’ts to keep in mind during your stay in Lindsay:

Do:

  • Do get around on foot or by bike, there is easy access to trails and beautiful parks.
  • Do try local craft beer and traditional dishes.
  • Do observe nature and enjoy the beauty of the parks and lakes.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter; always keep the park and lakes pristine and clean.
  • Don’t disturb the wildlife and be aware of the wildlife while hiking the trails.
  • Don’t ignore the town’s noise ordinance at night.

Safety and Health

Safety in Lindsay

Lindsay is a relatively safe town, but like all places, visitors should not leave their belongings unattended. It’s always best to practice common sense safety measures, such as locking your doors and not letting strangers into your hotel room.

Health in Lindsay

There are several clinics and pharmacies in Lindsay in case of emergencies. Visitors should bring insect repellent in summer and dress warmly during colder months.

Getting to Lindsay: Transportation Options and Logistics

Here are some transportation options to help you get to Lindsay:

Airports Near Lindsay

The Peterborough Airport is the nearest airport, located 30 kilometers away from Lindsay. It offers flights to Toronto, Montreal, and other destinations in Canada.

Bus Stations Near Lindsay

The nearest Greyhound bus station is located in Peterborough, 30 km away from Lindsay.

Other Options

Taxis and rental cars are also available to get around the town.

How to Get Around in Lindsay

Lindsay has a good public transportation system with buses traveling throughout the town. Visitors can also rent bikes. Walking his highly recommended as most parks and attractions are walking distance or a short bike ride away.

Where to Go Next from Lindsay: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here’s a list of nearby destinations and excursions from Lindsay:

  • Peterborough: A bustling city that’s just a half-hour drive from Lindsay, showcasing fantastic shopping, dining, and art.
  • Haliburton: This beautiful town famous for its crystal clear lakes and beautiful scenery is the perfect escape and is a 2-hour drive away.

Conclusion

Lindsay is a beautiful destination that offers natural beauty, rich culture, and plenty of outdoor activities. You can explore Lindsay’s historic landmarks, indulge in the local cuisine, hike or bike scenic trails, and much more. This comprehensive guide should help you make the most of your stay in Lindsay!

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