Getaway Guide to Cozy & Spooky Things to do in Fall in Smiths Falls
When it comes to planning a fall getaway in Ontario I’ve got just the place for you. There’s a charming small town an hour outside of Ottawa that is bursting with fall fun to be had and it’s flying under the radar. That small town is Smiths Falls! This gem of a small town surprised me with its long list of fall events, dreamy fall colours along the canal, and wonderful spots rich with cozy vibes.
So, if you’re looking for an autumn getaway, I’ve got all the details on the best things to do in fall in Smiths Falls. I’m sharing family-friendly events, like downtown trick or treating, to spooky happenings ranging from ghost tours to the magical Mystic Market. Plus, in this guide you’ll learn the best time to plan your getaway to Smiths Falls, where to stay and more!
If you’re keen on dreamy Stars Hallow vibes, a quiet place to soak in the fall colours, budget-friendly dining and shopping, along with countless fun events, this fall guide to Smiths Falls is for you!
Disclaimer: This post is written in partnership with Smiths Falls Tourism, but as always, all opinions expressed are my own. This post also contains affiliate links, by booking through them I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Enjoy Fall Colours along the Canal
The fall colours along the Rideau Canal and River in Smiths Falls blew me away! During my visit, the weekend before Halloween, they were at their peak.
With brilliant reds, burnt oranges, and golden yellows, along with clear blue skies, the colours were so vibrant. My friend and I wandered along the canal and river soaking in the beautiful hues, some of which were perfectly reflected in the still waters.
Plus, we couldn’t resist playing in the leaves for some fun photo-ops. Fall is my favourite time of year, so you’ve got to have fun with it!
If you’re looking for the best places for fall colours in Smiths Falls don’t miss these 3 spots along the water: Victoria Park, Duck Island, and along the Smiths Falls Heritage Trail.
Insider tip: While we enjoyed it on foot, you can also rent a bike from Pedal and Paddle. They have both classic bikes and e-bikes available.
Visit the Haunted Heritage House
If you love haunted houses and being spooked, then I highly recommend getting tickets to one of the Haunted Hertiage House nights. It is one of the top haunted houses I’ve been to, and I’ve done a lot!
The Heritage House Museum is an 1860’s home that is rich in history and stories. Plus, it might be haunted. So, it’s an ideal spot to host a haunted house. By day it’s a heritage museum, but during these haunted tours it’s transformed into a weird and wicked house full of ghoulish fun.
Every October, on select weekends, they open the doors for those brave enough to enter. With darkened rooms and hallways, each filled with creepy and spooky characters ready to scare you.
I have to admit, I was screaming and laughing a lot. It was so much fun to watch weird scenes take place, strange characters spook you or make you jump, as you race between rooms.
Attend the Mystic Market
Taking place on one of the same nights as the Haunted Heritage House, the weekend before Halloween, is another fun fall event in Smiths Falls – the Mystic Market.
The town shuts down Russell Street East, in downtown, and it becomes a magical market space fit for witches (or anyone for that matter). Running from 5 to 9 pm, this free night market has vendors lining the street and boasts a variety of live entertainment.
I was so thrilled to find so many unique vendors, many local, selling Halloween-inspired items. There were crystals, witches’ hats, fall scented candles, decorative brooms that were exceptional, and so much more. You can also get do a tarot reading or enjoy face painting.
Early in the evening there’s live music. During my visit, it was the talented DaNielle Hewitt belting out some cool tunes. But you’ve got to stay until later to take in the awesome performance by NorthFIRE Circus. Three ladies put on an act with fire that had me in awe. They were dancing with fire, juggling, and one even put out some of her torches with their mouth!
It’s a fun night out with friends but is also family friendly.
Enjoy Cozy Cafes
One of my favourite things to do in the fall is spend time in cozy cafes and there are a few great ones in town. Each has a bit of a different vibe and treats to choose from, but all are amazing.
The newest coffee shop in Smiths Falls is Amaya Café Bakery. Owned and operated by a veteran French baker and his wife, it has plenty of seating, including a nook with yellow comfy chairs. Selling a variety of pastries, baked goods and incredible artisanal bread.
Another French café in town that is a must-visit is C’est Tout Bakery. Set within the historic Rideau Hotel, this café serves up an amazing brunch as well as lattes. They have one of the best avocado toast dishes, I’ve ever had. But don’t miss out on their baked goods too. I always grab some of their cheddar and dill tea biscuits to bring home.
For the full fall cozy vibe with a faux fireplace, seasonal décor and a warm welcome, head to Lighthouse Café. This nonprofit is all about supporting the community without sacrificing on fabulous food. Grab a latte, and if you’re hungry one of their epic soups, and curl up in their comfy chairs. They even have a little library of books to choose from to read during your visit. Or you can try a hand at a puzzle, they always have one on the go.
Do a Craft Witch Workshop
If you’re looking for unique things to do during your fall in Smiths Falls getaway, then I recommend a workshop at The Craft Witch.
This shop downtown, paired with Toy Heaven on one side, sells an assortment of arts and craft supplies. Plus, in the back of the store is an arts studio where the owner Christin runs workshops throughout the year.
The best part is that she runs seasonal workshops where in the fall you could be doing anything from painting to creating a faux stained glass haunted house.
During my visit, a friend and I had so much fun painting the cutest fall scene. The scene was of a ghost in a forest with fall leaves all around. It was easy to follow along with her instructions and tips, as non painters, and all the supplies were included. What surprised me was how each of us, there were 5 adults and one little girl, had vastly different paintings. Same idea, but interpreted differently.
Take Part in Skele-bration
Families with kids will love planning a fall getaway in Smiths Falls during the Skele-bration weekend. This annual event that takes place the Saturday before Halloween is a fun time to visit.
It all starts with a costume parade, beginning at the Town Hall at 10 am, and continues downtown. This free event sees many of the downtown businesses dishing out Halloween candy to trick or treaters.
I was blown away by all of the costumes, both from kids and adults. I saw plenty of classics, like witches as well as superheroes and princesses. But we saw a toddler dress as a flying squirrel, which was the cutest! I loved the effort the moms and dads put in too, some of which had matching or themed costumes.
Enjoy Comfort Food
If you’re looking for cozy comfort restaurants in Smiths Falls, there are a number to choose from. And the best part is that you’ll find everything from sushi to Indian and European to classic Canadian.
One of my favourite places to eat in Smiths Falls is The Lockmaster’s Taphouse. Inside you’ll find exposed brick walls and a menu full of comfort classic items. My friend ordered the prime rib, that was a generous portion, and I enjoyed the steak. Plus, if you can reserve a seat with views of the falls and old mill.
On this trip I finally got to try and local favourite, My Place Restaurant. With a charming dining room, with red checkered tablecloths and paintings of Prague hanging on the walls, it specializes in Eastern European dishes. I ordered the Bohemian schnitzel, which was incredible, and my friend tried the Hungarian goulash for the first time and she loved it too.
Insider tip: If you are dining at either on a Friday or Saturday night, I highly recommend making reservations, as both can get very busy.
Browse the Shops
I always love shopping in Smiths Falls! There are a variety of shops downtown ranging from clothing boutiques to bookstores.
Whether you need to warm up from the crisp fall temperatures or dodging rain, I recommend browsing the shops downtown.
For book lovers, you’re in luck! There are two great bookstores. One is Arlie’s Books, which sells second hand books, along with other fun items. The other one is The Book’s Better Bookshop, which sells new books, along with unique locally made items. Fall is the perfect time for purchasing a book or two for enjoy cozy nights in.
There are also a ton of antique, thrift and second-hand stores in Smiths Falls! Honestly, I swear it’s the capital of thrifting in Ontario! During our trip we browsed around half a dozen different ones, and there’s more we missed. A couple of favourites include The New Old Town and Beautiful Full Figured Boutique, which has everything.
More Fun Fall Events in Smiths Falls
Hallows Express at RMEO
One of the coolest things to do in the fall in Smiths Falls is visit the Railway Museum of Ontario (RMEO) for Hallows Express. This unique experience transports visitors into a magical world. Hop aboard for a whimsical train ride. And don’t forget to dress up as your favourite wizard or witch with robe and wand. It’s like stepping into the world of Harry Potter right here in Ontario.
When: mid-September
Cost: Paid
Smiths Falls Ghost Walk
Want to learn about the ghosts of Smiths Falls? Join a Smiths Falls Ghost Walk, run by the Heritage House Museum. Wander the streets and alleyways of downtown with a guide and hear the haunted tales of Smiths Falls. It’s a fun way to get into the spooky spirit and learn about the town’s history.
When: mid-September
Cost: Paid
Hilcrest Cemetery Tours
With a blend of history, spookiness and superstition, the Hilcrest Cemetery Tours are a fun one for those who love all things creepy cool. The guided tour takes you through the oldest part of Hilcrest Cemetery and includes all sorts of weird and spooky stories.
When: mid-September
Cost: Paid
Fall Fest at Heritage House
A wonderful family friendly event at the Heritage House is Fall Fest. Taking place the first weekend of October, there’s plenty to do and see. Check out their vendor market, enjoy a wagon ride, take part in games and scavenger hunts. There are fun photo-ops live entertainment, and festive treats to indulge in too.
When: first weekend of October
Cost: admission by donation
Ghost Tours at Heritage House
If you love ghost stories and historic buildings, grab tickets to a ghost tour at the Heritage House. This guided tour of the Smiths Falls Heritage House takes place at night, with the building lit by candlelight. You’ll learn about the strange happenings and ghost sightings at the museum and in town.
When: second weekend of October
Cost: Paid
Thanksgiving Train Rides
Another event at the Railway Museum of Eastern Ontario is the Thanksgiving Train Rides. This family-friendly experience let’s you hop aboard their vintage train for a ride through their yard. Enjoy fall colours, explore the unique rail museum, grab some fun Thanksgiving photos and make some memories.
When: mid-October
Cost: Paid
For all events hosted by the Smiths Falls Heritage House Museum, please follow their Facebook page for tickets and up-to-date details.
Tips for a Fall Getaway in Smiths Falls
Best time to visit
I visited near the end of October, the weekend before Halloween, and found it an ideal weekend in Smiths Falls. The fall colours were at their peak. Plus, it offered a number of fun fall events to enjoy, including Skele-bration, The Mystic Market, and Haunted Heritage House.
Alternatively, mid-September is another great time to visit. The trees should be starting to change. Plus, there are cemetery tours and the Hallows Express event at the Railway Museum of Eastern Ontario.
Where to stay
Every time I visit Smiths Falls, I stay at the Best Western. This budget-friendly hotel offers complimentary breakfast, clean spacious rooms, and is a short drive into town. Or you can enjoy the scenic 15-minute walk to downtown.
However, if you are visiting on one of the weekends full of events, I recommend booking as early as you can. At least 2 months should be good.
Make it a day trip
If a weekend away isn’t something you can swing, try planning to visit for the day. Smiths Falls makes for a great day trip from Ottawa, or the southeastern Ontario area.
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Can’t make it in the fall? Or enjoyed your visit you want to go again? Check out my guide to the best things to do at Christmastime in Smiths Falls.
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