Cornwall: Discover Waterfront Trails and History

In Cornwall, large waterfront parks and trails along the St. Lawrence River meet a city history that can be explored outdoors and in historic buildings. Those who like to stay active during the day will find a variety of walking and cycling routes; those interested in the area's past can plan visits to museums, historic walking tours, and the former jail. This mix offers useful guidance on which experiences to prioritize when choosing a vacation rental in Cornwall.

Waterfront Parks and Trails along the St. Lawrence River

The large, smoke-free Lamoureux Park is on the waterfront in downtown Cornwall. One of its features is a scenic recreational trail. The park is also home to a splash pad; public drinking water stations and restrooms are available beside it on the Cornwall section of the Riverside Trail. As information about these facilities may change, it is a good idea to check before your trip.

For longer hikes and walks, consider Guindon Park: The 500-acre park has access to the St. Lawrence River and several dozen kilometers of scenic trails. Another option is Cornwall's recreational trail network. It spans about 40 kilometers and runs along the river and throughout the city; it can be used for walking, cycling, and rollerblading.

The Riverside Trail, also called the Waterfront Trail, offers a distinct cycling and trail experience: It includes a 40-kilometer, traffic-free section from Cornwall to Upper Canada Village. Bikes can be rented at Marina 200 for use on the Waterfront Trail. Marina 200 is a boating facility on the waterfront, just east of the Cornwall Civic Complex on the St. Lawrence River.

History on Foot and in the Museum

The Cornwall Community Museum is located in Lamoureux Park, in the historic Wood House at 160 Water Street West. Its exhibits feature artifacts from Cornwall and the SDG Counties. Topics range from the city's founding and industry to law and healthcare. Admission is free; check current visitor information before your visit.

You can also discover Cornwall's history along the waterfront: The Cornwall Historic Walking Tour includes more than 40 plaques, each depicting an era or event in the city's history. The tour starts in Lamoureux Park and is divided into three walks: the Waterfront Walk, Historic Downtown Walk, and Le Village Walk. They can be taken separately or together. This lets you tailor the length of the historic walk to your day's plans.

The Historic SDG Jail stands at the corner of Water Street and Pitt Street in downtown Cornwall. The building was constructed in 1833 and used as a jail until 2002; over the course of its history, it served as both a minimum- and maximum-security jail. Guided tours include the original courthouse, various cell blocks, the observation room, the courtyard, and the gallows. Knowledgeable guides share information and answer questions. As the current tour format may change, it is a good idea to check before your visit.

The Cornwall Sports Hall of Fame is also located in the Cornwall Civic Complex in Lamoureux Park. It was created to celebrate the community's sporting heritage and recognize athletes' achievements as well as the contributions of those who support their sports.

Other Interests and Choosing Where to Stay

There are sporting activities in addition to walks and history: The Cornwall Aquatic Centre at 100 Water Street East offers public swim times, private parties, and swimming lessons for all ages. Programs may change. The Cornwall Curling Centre has six sheets of ice and hosts various events and bonspiels throughout the year; check specific dates in advance. The Heritage Parkway, also known as Highway 2 or County Road 2, runs through Cornwall and may also factor into your travel plans.

When looking for a vacation rental in Cornwall, your preferred daytime activities can help guide your choice. If longer trails and cycling are a priority, Guindon Park, the city's trail network, and the Riverside Trail offer different options. For a stay focused more on cultural history, the museum, the Historic Walking Tour plaques, and the Historic SDG Jail are good themes to consider when planning.

Discover more destinations: Glen Robertson, Long Sault, Williamsburg, Iroquois, Morrisburg, Lancaster, Crysler, Winchester.

For the broader travel overview: Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry United Counties.