walking tour paris ontario

27 Things to do in Paris Ontario – A Local’s Guide

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: June 8, 2024

Did you know that Canada has a Paris? Paris, Ontario, is located just down the road from Scotland and not too far from Cambridge. If you want to take a road trip, you can also pop into Copenhagen en route to London before checking out Dublin and Luxemburg. Ontario clearly wants to be a little Europe!

Dave and I moved to the small town of Paris, Ontario, four years ago and love calling this picturesque community our home. Paris has been named the Prettiest Little Town in Canada, and with it being located just 1 hour and 20 minutes from Toronto, Paris has become a very popular day trip for people wishing to escape the city. If you are looking for a great weekend getaway or even just a day of exploring, these are all the things to do in Paris, Ontario.

Table of Contents

Things to do in Paris, Ontario

Contrary to popular belief, Paris, Ontario, was not named after Paris, France. Paris, Ontario, got its name from the gypsum deposits that lay along the Grand River, which runs through town. The gypsum was used to create the Plaster of Paris, which made walls and ceilings, and hence, the town became known as Paris.

• Best things to do in Paris, Ontario – Outdoors
• Best Paris Patios
• Downtown in Paris

Bonus Paris Attractions

How to get to paris, ontario.

• Where to Stay in Paris, Ontario

Paris, Ontario, totally surprised us. I grew up not too far away from here and hadn’t returned for more than 20 years. Dave grew up just up the road in Burlington and had never been here before! It was never on our radar, but after coming to look at houses with my parents, we found ourselves buying one of our own instead! This isn’t the Paris that I knew growing up. Paris now has contemporary restaurants, cool boutique shops, and plenty of outdoor adventures along the Grand River. So, let’s get ready to dive in!

Paris Outdoors and Adventure

1. kayak the grand river.

We moved to Paris in the height of the pandemic so we had a lot of time to explore the outdoors. We had no idea the Grand River was so popular but it is one of the premier kayaking destinations in the province. Kayakers can put their kayaks in anywhere in Paris where they can float to Brantford or, our favourite route is to put in at Glen Morris (11 km away) and kayak back into town.

One big catch is that you need two cars. We loaded up our kayaks in my brother’s truck, dropped us off at the launch point. We then drove the truck to Paris where we left it at the portage point in Paris at Penman’s Dam and then drove back to leave our car at Glen Morris. Yes, it’s complicated, but paddling one way is so much easier than having to paddle for a bit and then paddle again upstream.

• If you don’t have kayaks or two cars you can book kayaking trips with Grand River Rafting Company
• Grand Experiences offers kayaking and canoe trips on the Grand and Nith Rivers.
• You can also book shuttles or do what others we talked to have done – just phone a taxi to take you back to you car!

2. Tube the Grand River

If kayaking isn’t your thing, river tubing is very popular on the Grand. Tubers can put in at all sorts of launch pads along the Grand, but the best is to launch downtown Paris and float to the Brant Conservation area. Two cars are required for this as well, but you can also get shuttles with Grand River Rafting. Other people have told us that they hire taxis to shuttle as well. And that is a fantastic idea. Grand River Rafting offers Turbo Tubing rentals and tours. PS – we recommend having paddles with your even for tubing to be able to steer through rapids and obstacles.

Hot Tip – Brant Blue Canoe Token

If you book an experience with one of the two Grand River outfitters – Grand Experiences or Grand River Rafting you’ll receive special deals at participating Paris, Ontario vendors.

3. Rafting the Grand River

We have paddled and SUP (stand up paddleboard) along the Grand River but we see whitewater rafters go by all the time. Grand River rafting isn’t massive whitewater like Ottawa Whitewater rafting , but it could be a fun trip for families where you’ll go through a few obstacles. Plus there is swimming and beaches to pull off and the scenery is beautiful. If you are traveling with a group, this would be a fun trip to do.

Cycle the Cambridge to Paris Rail Trail

Cycling the Cambridge to Paris Rail trail is one of our favourite things to do in Paris. This forest trail follows the Grand River all the way to Cambridge. This old railway line is now an outdoor lovers dream. There are benches and lookouts along the way and there are even a few beaches (or at least sandy spots) on the banks of the river Grand.

4. Stroll the Nith River Sensory Trail

We love this trail in Lions Park. This is the only one of its kind we’ve ever seen that is made for people of all abilities. There are activities and stops along the way with signs also featured in braille for the visually impaired. A rope lines the trail for visually impaired people to follow and it is wheelchair and stroller friendly. The Nith River Sensory Trail is a beautiful setting where flyfishermen elegantly fish for their catch and trees line the scene making for a shady comfortable stroll. Stop and play some of the instruments and enjoy the sensory garden.

5. Go Fishing

Speaking of Flyfishermen, the Nith and Grand River are filled with people flyfishing but regular fishing is popular too. Penman’s Dam is the “wow” attraction in Paris, Ontario. The other day we went for a walk by the dam and a couple from Windsor told us it was their first visit to Paris and they couldn’t believe how beautiful this town is. We were standing at Penman’s Dam and noticed that it really is a beautiful location and felt proud when they told us they wanted to move here. There are fishing holes all around Paris on the Grand and Nith Rivers and Paris is a popular spot for fly fishing too. The conditions are nearly perfect on the Grand with running shallow waters. You can book Fly fishing with Fly Water Guiding in Paris here.

6. Picnic at Penman’s Dam

Paris is the location where two rivers meet. The Grand and The Nith. Penman’s Dam was built in 1918 to harness the Grand Rivers’ power to run the Penman Clothing Company. It is a picturesque spot for a picnic as people bask in the sun on the banks. It’s a place to meet and talk to people as many people are lounging with their kayaks and tubes waiting for their rides.

There is a picnic table here, but only one. Penman’s Dam is the place portage over the dam with canoes and kayaks. There is a beautiful boardwalk leading down to the Grand River and you can watch the paddlers come in regularly all summer long.

7. Rent Canoes At Penman’s Dam

You don’t have to do a major paddling trip to enjoy the Grand River in Paris, you can rent canoes and kayaks right downtown to putter around and explore the river in town.

The Grand River meets up with the Nith River in downtown Paris and when you go under the bridge, you can explore there as well. Walk back behind the Cobblestone Pub on Grand River Street and you’ll see canoes and kayaks for rent at Grand Experiences located on Grand River Street downtown. (It’s also a great spot to grab a beer overlooking the Grand.

8. Hub of Ontario Trails

The cycling is amazing from Paris . From downtown Paris (and our house!) we can cycle to Port Dover (a popular beach town on Lake Erie), Ancaster and Hamilton . (We’ve even competed in the Paris to Ancaster race in the past. Can’t wait until it opens up again for racing so we can kick butt this time! )

The Hub of Ontario Trails is located not too far from Paris at Brant’s Crossing. From here, you can choose which direction to go. The trails are free from cars, they go through conservation areas, and along rivers and they are well maintained with park benches and interactive signs along the way. The real bonus is that the trails are not too crowded like the trails in Toronto.

9. Cycling Trails of Paris

If you are coming to Paris, Ontario pack your bikes because the trails are fantastic. There is cycling all along the Grand River too all the way to Cambridge. The path is a great double-track, hard-packed trail that has many viewpoints and pull-offs. Downtown Paris is bike-friendly and there is even an interactive hiking and cycling path in leaving from Lions Park. Dave and I cycle pretty much every day we are home. You can rent bicycles from Grand Experiences located downtown on Grand River Street.

10. Hike the Trans Canada Trail

You don’t have to pack your bike when coming to Paris to enjoy the outdoors. Many of the trails that cyclists use are also used for hiking. Leaving from Lions Park, you can go hiking along the Nith River and Distillery Trail. From downtown Paris at the Grand River Bridge, you can hop on the Grand River Trail and follow the path all the way to Cambridge.

If you want you can hike all the way to Brantford to the Hub of Ontario. We have seen many deer, bald eagles, groundhogs, and plenty of rabbits, squirrels, and chipmunks on the trail. So keep an eye out, they have a tendency to run right in front of our bikes!

11. Lions Park

Lions Park is our favourite place to cut through when we are going to Paris. Insider tip: There is plenty of parking here and it is a lovely walk through the park to downtown Paris. The park has a swimming pool, a splash pad, picnic tables and a playground for kids with jungle gyms, an amphitheater, and hiking trails.

The interactive trail along the Nith River is a great walk that takes you to another bridge into downtown.

Downtown Paris, Ontario

12. lookout over the grand river.

If you have come into town for some shopping or dining, you can view the Grand River from the lovely lookout located on Paris Main Street. There are plaques dedicated to generous donors and there is a park bench to sit and enjoy the view.

In the summer there is a downtown Jam night at the pavilion on Thursday evenings. The Pavilion is located on Grand River Street right beside 2 Rivers Restaurant and it has the best views of the Grand River.

13. Shop Local at Paris Wincey Mills

Wincey Mills is a lovely weekend market that is filled with local food stalls and boutique shopping. We love popping in to see what’s new and restocking our pantry. It’s a great place to pick up some souvenirs or to have a taste of Paris local foods.

Wincey Mills dates back to 1889 and they have kept the historic structure that has been in operation for more than a century. We love picking up local cheese, jams, and olive oil when shopping at Wincey Mills. You can also grab a quick lunch in there as well.

14. Shopping and Galleries

When touring around Ontario, everyone loves to pop into boutique stores to shop locally. Paris, Ontario has a lot of charming stores to check out. Take a walk along Grand River street and duck into the shops selling gems, art, jewelry, scented candles and designer clothes and shoes.

• Get Your Calm on at Wabi Sabi Crystals – Located across from the Arlington Hotel
• The Peddler Tea Store – Pick up an artisan tea
• Fizz Soakery – A funky wellness store located beside the Dog Eared Cafe.
• Get Some Art at Bohemian Gallery Paris – Located beside Wabi Sabi Crystals
• Piper and Oak – is my favourite place to shop for furniture and home decor
• The Gem Market Place – is a cool boutique shop offering hand made designs.
• Green Heron Books – a lovely little bookstore on the river.

15. Paris Museum and Historical Society

We haven’t been able to go into the Paris Museum since moving here. It’s been closed since we’ve moved her. But when things get back into full swing, this is going to be our first stop. But they do have a website with information and you can use their Cobblestone tour map to see the Cobblestones of Paris. Get it here.

Paris Museum is strangely closed on Sundays which we find odd since most people visit Paris on the Weekends. But here are the museum hours. Wednesday to Saturday 1 – 4 pm.

16. Cobblestone Tour

We had no idea that Paris was the Cobblestone Capital of Canada until we moved here. But Paris is home to 13 cobblestone buildings. When walking through Paris, keep an eye out for the cobblestone buildings. If you want to book a tour (when things open up again) the Paris Museum offers walking tours. It is said that it required 14,000 Cobblestones to build one house. The Cobblestones were all taken from the Nith and Grand Rivers, but you’d never know it, these bodies of water are still very rocky.

17. Get Ice Cream at the Paris Bakery

One of our favourite things to do in Paris Ontario is the take a stroll with coffee in hand. The Paris Bakery has excellent coffee and cappuccino. You can get donuts, cookies, and pastries as well, but we just love grabbing a coffee to do some window shopping.

18. Ice Cream Chocolate Sensations

There are often line-ups out the door at Chocolate Sensations located on Grand River Street. They not only serve delicious gourmet chocolate treats but they also have fantastic ice cream. If you have a sweet tooth, this is the place to pop into for more than just ice cream, it has delicious chocolates where you can purchase a taste of Paris and bring it home with you. No visit to Paris would be complete without going inside to stock up on decadent candy.

19. What’s the Scoop

If lines are too long at Chocolate Sensations, go around the corner to What’s the Scoop. A lot of people would argue that their ice cream is even better! It’s not located on the main street, so chances of having a shorter line are good.

20. Twisted Treats

When you are heading out of town via Rest Acres Road, stop in at Twisted Treats for ice cream for the road. They are a lot like Dairy Queen with soft-serve delicious treats. But they are a fraction of the price. This is our go-to ice cream shop in Paris, Ontario.

Paris Patios

21. enjoy the patio of stillwaters plate and pour.

Stillwaters Plate and Pour is the most popular restaurant in Paris with a huge patio. If you are coming to Paris for a day trip, be sure to book your table well in advance. The restaurant is great with a beautiful view of the Grand River and chic menu. We couldn’t believe that there was such a downtown-style vibe restaurant right here in our little town. But then we read that the owners are from the Food Network’s Top Chef Canada. It lives up to their theme of creating a mix of comfort, fun, and elegance.

22. Have Pizza and a Pint on the Patio of Capeesh

Stillwaters Plate and Pour isn’t the only hot spot in town though. Capeesh is located next door and it is just as good as Stillwaters. There is a fantastic patio (that nobody seems to know about) a great menu and a similar vibe to Stillwaters. Specializing in handmade pizza, Capeesh also has a little bit of everything. Greek, Indian, Thai, it has it all. There are 2 riverside patios, a bar, lounge, and an indoor dining room.  

23. Dine at 2 Rivers

2 Rivers is the most underrated restaurant in Paris. Maybe because Stillwaters is so popular and Capeesh is right next door, but 2 Rivers also has a fantastic patio on the Grand, it has an extensive bistro-style menu and it even has some live music. Be sure to check them out! They have a set menu on Fridays and Saturdays where you can enjoy a 3 course meal while overlooking The Grand. We celebrated New Years Eve there this year and it was fantastic!

24. Cobblestone Public House

Cobblestone Public House is yet another restaurant/pub located directly on the Grand River in downtown Paris, Ontario. It is definitely more of a pub fare than the other restaurants with the regular pub favourites on hand. They have a riverside patio, bar, and indoor dining. Its sister restaurants are Stillwaters and Capeesh. (I just learned that when visiting their website while writing this post!)

25. Paris Beer Company

The Paris Beer Company is located in the back of Wincey Mills Market and their patio overlooks the Nith River and Lion’s Park. If all the restaurants on the Grand are full, make your way to Wincey Mills and order a flight on the patio. They have a taproom and tasting room and you can pick up some bottles to take home with you. You can also order food from their full menu.

This has been our go-to spot for meeting friends from out of town. It’s a lively place with great local beer and a superb charcuterie board.

26. Enjoy Fine Dining at Juniper

We haven’t had the chance to eat here yet, but when we first moved to Paris, it was at the top of our list of things to do. We took a drive by the other night and it was jam packed, so we are making a reservation for next week, I’ll keep you posted. They have a patio too albeit it isn’t located on any river and is only situated in the parking lot. I think I’ll leave this one for a romantic meal out at night.

27. The Dog-Eared Cafe

The Dog Eared Cafe is the newest addition to Paris with plenty of theme nights and gatherings. Pop in for a fresh brew or grab a beer or a glass of wine. I am partial to their Maple Oat Latte. It has a second hand book store where proceeds go to charity and it has lovely views of the Grand River where you settle into its cozy atmosphere while enjoying a good book or a quiet conversation.

Paris Fairgrounds

Home to the Paris Fair, the Paris Fairgrounds has plenty of festivals and events happening throughout the year. There is the Maple Syrup Festival, the Butter Tart Festival, The Fall Craft and Vendor Show and the Holiday Markets. There is always something going on and it even attracts visitors from out of town.

28. Pop Over to the Bell Homestead National Historic Site

Brant County is famous for being the place where the telephone was invented by Alexander Graham Bell. While it is about a 15-minute drive to the Bell Homestead in Brantford from Paris, you still should include it on your Paris, Ontario Itinerary. Besides, you will be able to round out your historic tour with the Bell Homestead in Brantford and its Paris connection.

Fun Fact : Alexander Graham Bell made his first long-distance phone call to the Robert White Shoe Store in Paris, Ontario. Visit the Dominion Telegraph Event Centre on Grand River Street (Paris Main Street) at William Street.

29. Elberta Farms

One last place to mention before you leave Paris. Elberta farms is Located just outside of Paris . This is our local farm where Dave and I get all our produce. There is nothing better than fresh from the farm fruits and vegetables. But they also sell pies, jams, cheese and maple syrup. Before heading back to the city, stock up on fresh Canadian vegetables and goodies that you simply cannot get in downtown urban centres.

Where to Stay in Paris Ontario

The Arlington Hotel – The Arlington Hotel is the only proper hotel in Paris, Ontario. (unless you are friends with Dave and me and stay at Chez PlanetD, haha) but even if you are not staying over, you must eat in their dining room at Edit Restaurant. Or have drinks on the patio. Their patio is, unfortunately in a parking lot, but they have done a nice job decorating it with shrubs and trees. People love the Arlington Boutique Hotel for its theme rooms. You can book and see reviews on TripAdvisor

The Carriage House Flat – This BnB has been renovated and is in a grand heritage home. The four rooms have a fireplace, TV, Netflix and Internet.

ASA Wolverton House – is a historic carriage house converted into a BnB that sleeps up to six people. It includes a kitchenette.

You may also like: Where to Stay in Paris, France

Paris Ontario Spas

I have just started sourcing the Paris Ontario Spas and plan to visit them all soon! It’s a tough job but somebody has to do it.

If you are staying over at the Arlington Hotel, book a facial or massage at the Ah Spa. It’s located just across the street from the Arlington Hotel, so you can go back to your room after your massage or treatment to enjoy a glass of bubbly before your night out.

So where is Paris, Ontario anyway? Paris, Ontario is located about 90 minutes west of downtown Toronto along the 403 in Brant County. (we’ve made it to our doctor’s office in the West end of Toronto in less than an hour!)

Paris is just 10 minutes west of Brantford and 30 minutes west of Hamilton Ontario. It is also 40 minutes south of Kitchener. So, in a nutshell, Paris is a very central location in Southern Ontario. To get to Paris you can either take the Paris Road exit or the Rest Acres Road exit from the 403 and head north.

Parking in Paris, Ontario

Parking in Paris is getting very crowded so arrive early if you want to enjoy the day. There is a parking lot behind the main street which is Grand River Street. Look for the Rexall drug store and go in behind there.

There is also parking at Lions Park. You can get to Lion’s Park by exiting at the Rest Acres Road exit towards Paris. When you come to Highway 2 (aka King Edward Street) turn right at the lights and then make a left onto Dundas Street. You will then make an immediate right onto Laurel Street. Other parking can be found at Penman’s Dam Park.

And there you have it folks! All of the best things to do in Paris Ontario. Are you ready to visit one of the prettiest small towns in Canada? We may live here and may be a little bit biased but we know you will love getting out of the city to enjoy our beautiful home.

Read More about Travels in Ontario

• 35 Iconic Places to Visit in Ontario, Canada
• Things to do in Prince Edward County, Ontario
• The Best Things to do in Hamilton, Ontario
• 25 Day Trips from Toronto to Escape the City
• The Best Things to do in Tobermory, Ontario
• Best Weekend Getaways in Ontario
• Wolf Cabins Experience in Parc Omega

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor.

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Safety Wing - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? Then we recommend Get Your Guide.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

You May Also Like

Trent Severn Waterway – Everything You Need to Know with Le Boat

25 Best Things to Do in Niagara Falls, Canada in 2024

The Perfect 48 Hours in Niagara Falls Canada

About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

Join thousands of others who get our monthly updates!

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

2 thoughts on “27 Things to do in Paris Ontario – A Local’s Guide”

That’s super interesting. Thank you for the list. But wait until you discover how Plaster of Paris came to be named so…

Are stores and attractions going to be open over the thanksgiving weekend?

The World As I See It

One Ontario lady with a passion for travel and inspiring others to get outdoors and explore more

• Canada / Ontario / Travel

21 Perfect Things to do in Paris Ontario the Prettiest Small Town

by Stephanie · Published January 15, 2024 · Updated January 15, 2024

Paris has been named one of the prettiest little towns in Canada. It’s home to a waterfall, delectable desserts, and historic buildings. You’ll be swept away by its charm, lovely people, and scenic spot in the heart of Ontario. Along with being one of the best small towns , there are plenty of perfect things to do in Paris Ontario.

If you’re looking for somewhere to go for a weekend getaway in Ontario then Paris is the perfect place. As a frequent visitor, I’ve got your Paris trip planning covered. In this travel guide you’ll discover all the top things to do, how to get there, as well as where to stay and where to eat.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. In clicking through and purchasing from these links you will not be charged anything extra but I will receive a small commission.

How to Get to Paris

Paris is located in Southern Ontario’s Brant County , just outside Brantford. Paris is a 1.5 hour drive from Toronto, and 30 minutes west of Hamilton. Close enough for the perfect weekend getaway Ontario, road trip, or perfect day trip.

Depending on where you travel from here is one route idea. For route suggestions, I recommend taking Highway 401 and getting off at 24, heading towards Cambridge. Then get off on 14 going west for a scenic drive into Paris. You can find downtown Paris located along Grand River Street.

Best Things to do in Paris Ontario

If you’re looking for the perfect small town getaway in Ontario then Paris is where you should go! This charming small town is set between the Grand River and Nith River and is full of fantastic restaurants, shops, and plenty of awesome outdoor adventures.

Visit Penman’s Dam

A great first stop in Paris is the historic Penman’s Dam. It was built over 100 years ago by the Penman clothing company to provide waterpower to run their mills.

The dam now provides a perfect spot to rest and relax with a picnic and take in the waterfall. Plus, don’t forget to visit it at night too!

Every evening at dusk the Penman’s Dam is lit by spectacular colours. Known as “Lighting of the Paris Falls.” The best view it from the William Street Bridge.

There is a parking lot off of County Road 51. From the parking lot, take a walk up the small hill for a full view the Dam up close. There’s also access to the Cambridge to Paris Rail Trail along the paved pathway by the dam.

Above the Grand River, that runs through Paris, is a train bridge. Penman’s Dam offers the best view of it. You may recognize it from many Hallmark movies.

Take a Cobblestone Tour

Whether you’re a history buff or fan of incredible architecture then you’ll love Paris. Known as the Cobblestone Capital of Canada, Paris is home to a dozen pristine cobblestone buildings and even a few garden walls.

I highly recommend doing a tour around town to see the cobblestone buildings. It’s one of my favourite things to do in Paris!

There are 12 homes and 2 cobblestone churches left in Paris. These Paris cobblestone buildings were all built around the mid-1800’s.

This artful masonry work was brought here by the famous New York architect Levi Boughton. He chose rounded, lake washed, cobblestones to create these works of art.

Some of the buildings are made of over 14,000 cobblestones, all drawn from the Nith and Grand Rivers. And nowhere else in Canada will you see this many cobblestone structures in one place.

Go for a Bike or Hike in Paris

If you know me, you’ll know I’m always on the hunt for hiking trails wherever I go. And Paris is no different. It’s a beautiful place for many reasons, incredible architecture, a picturesque downtown, and also because it’s surrounded by stunning natural scenery. So, I couldn’t leave out hiking as one of the top things to do in Paris Ontario.

There are over 100 km of trails in Paris and area. The forests around Paris are significant as they are home to stretches of Carolinian Forests that are only found in certain places in Canada.

Cambridge to Paris Rail Trail

One great trail in Paris to check out is the Cambridge to Paris Rail Trail. This 18 km trail runs along an old rail bed. It’s one of the many incredible Grand River trails that follow the river. Plus, it offers various overlooks to stop and soak in the scenery. The trail is ideal for hiking and cycling.

SC Johnston Trail

The SC Johnson Trail is great for hiking or cycling! This 14-km trail runs between Paris and Brantford. The SC Johnson Trail travels along the abandoned railway bed of the Northern Railway. Plus, it will reward you with scenic views over Paris! This is another great trail that is fit for foot or bike!

Nith River Trail & Distillery Lane Trail

In one of the best parks in Paris Ontario visitors will find another trail! The Nith River and Distillery Lane Trails run through Lions Park and Pete Lavole Ball Park, taking you along the Nith River. Plus, this lovely trail is also home to many sensory displays that provide an inclusive outdoor experience for many!

Other trails to check out in or near Paris are the Barker’s Bush Trail Loop, Penman’s Pass Trail, Grand Valley Trail, and the Gordon Glaves Grand River Loop. For more trails near Paris visit here .

Raft the Grand River

One of the best things to do in Paris Ontario for adventure buffs is to raft the Grand River.

The Grand River is a designated Heritage River and has stretches of slow and fast currents. You can canoe, kayak, or enjoy a whitewater rafting experience on this majestic river.

Plus, it’s a fantastic way to get a new view of Paris. And even if it’s your first time, don’t be shy, you can join one of the great guided tours with Grand River Rafting .

Learn about Telephone History

Did you know that Alexander Graham Bell lived in Brant County? It was here that he invented the telephone!

Not only did this historic event happen here in Ontario, but there’s even a Paris connection. On August 10, 1876, Bell’s first long-distance phone call was received at what was then Robert White Shoe Store in Paris, Ontario.

It might not be the long-distance we think of today. But that first long distance phone call, from Brantford to Paris Ontario, was received from around 10 km away. This was huge and history-making at the time!

If you’re looking for cool places in Paris then be sure to check out this historic site. In downtown Paris there’s a plaque noting where it occurred.

The plaque is located on the exterior of the Dominion Telegraph Event Centre, at the corner of Grand River Street North and William Street.

Insider Tip: If you want to learn more consider a visit to the Bell Homestead National Historic Site , a 20 minute drive from Paris.

Stay in a Unique Hotel

In the heart of downtown Paris is one of the most unique hotels in Ontario, the Arlington Hotel. Built in the early 1850‘s it was constructed in a chateau-style and is now an Ontario Heritage Site.

This boutique hotel combines historic charm with an imaginative literary theme. Each of the 24 rooms are decorated with iconic authors or creative people in mind.

There’s a Jane Austen suite, an enchanted JRR Tolkien room, and my favourite – the Ernest Hemingway suite! There’s a room to suit everyone’s want.

You’ll find classic authors, like Edgar Allan Poe, pop culture buffs rooms like Monthy Python, and even quirky rooms like Sigmond Freud. Many of the rooms offer scenic views of downtown Paris too!

The Arlington Hotel is one of my favourite hotels and I stay there every time I visit Paris. I always ask for a different room, and as long as they can accommodate, they do.

Along with rooms, the Arlington Hotel features a spectacular restaurant, The Library Bar. With a menu full of flavour, they also serve afternoon tea.

CHECK AVAILABILTY

Visit Wincey Mills

Originally built in 1889, Wincey Mills is a restored textile mill. Now this three-story historic building is home to local vendors, a coffee shop and offices.

Paris Wincey Mills is a must-visit and open year-round. I pop in every time I visit Paris because it’s where my favourite shop is.

Bird & Bee Vintage is a cool shop that sells a variety of items that range from antique jewelry to bath products. With a mix of new and vintage, I also love their Paris Ontario themed souvenirs!

The Mill is home to Detour Espresso Bar too. This café serves up a great cup of coffee as well as a mix of baked goods and light fare.

Wincey Mills is full of great food stops selling everything from local produce to tasty take out. A couple of my go-to vendors to check out are Original Gourmet Popcorn, The Udderway Artisan Cheese Co, and Van Laeken Family Farm.

Dine at Paris Restaurants

The town of Paris is a foodie’s paradise! There’s everything from fine dining to pub fare. So, you’ll find something to please everyone’s palate.

Every time I visit, I eat at a different restaurant. It’s incredible how many places to eat in Paris there are! Plus, many of them are located along the main street in town, Grand River Street.

Grand River Street runs parallel to the river. Thanks to this ideal location, many of the restaurants on the street’s east side have patios overlooking the Grand River.

A few great restaurants in Paris Ontario:

• Cobblestone Public House – Cozy pub with a hearty menu of food and beer. My top dishes are their nachos or burger.
• Stillwaters – Canadian fare with a global influence and rooftop patio with views of the Grand River.
• 2 Rivers – Relaxing restaurant with patio on the river that serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. My go-to is their Veggie Wrap for lunch.
• Juniper Dining – A classy French bistro with an incredible menu of seafood and more.

Fuel up at a Bookish Coffee Shop

Two of my favourite things are coffee and books! So, as soon as I walked into Dog-Eared Café I was in love!

Dog-Eared Café is a bookstore and café that’s located in downtown Paris. Along with their assortment of hand-crafted drinks, they offer baked goods and light fare. And I love that they use a local Ontario coffee roaster, Altitude from Elgin County.

Best known for their famous Toasted Hot Chocolate, my go-to is their Red-Eye. And the best part is, they off non-dairy options to make the drink to suit your dietary needs.

This dreamy coffee shop has a fun white and black interior with pops of red. You’ll find various seating, including vintage plush red sofas.

Along with great drinks and food you’ll be surrounded by walls of books for sale. There’s something for everyone and at good prices.

One of my favourite things about Dog-Eared Café is the incredible wall of windows at the back of the shop. Sitting on one of the plush sofas, you’ll have front row seats to an epic view of the Grand River.

Feed your Sweet Tooth at Paris Shops

Along with being the prettiest little town in Canada, Paris Ontario is full of sweet shops! You’ll find a shop to suit your cravings, from chocolates to donuts.

At Chocolate Sensations you’ll find an assortment of handmade chocolates. In addition to chocolates, they sell other sweets like salt water taffy, gummies, and more.

Another fabulous stop is the Paris Bakery . Established in 1927, the bakery is a great place to grab mouth-watering baked goods like donuts, butter tarts, and fun seasonal goodies.

It’s one of the best donut shops in Ontario , with an assortment of flavours. My favourite is their Cinnamon toast crunch donut!

There’s another sweet place to grab treats in Paris, Cheesecake on the go . They make the best cheesecake in Ontario that come in various flavours. You’ll find everything from Oreo to Strawberry that comes with fresh fruit toppings. My favourite is the Skor!

One of the top things to do in Paris in the summer is enjoy a refreshing scoop of ice cream. And the best spot to grab ice cream in town is Paris What’s The Scoop ?!

Grab a Beer at Paris Beer Company

If you’re looking for a refreshing beverage then head to Paris Beer Company. This family run craft brewery is located at Wincey Mills.

Seven generations of farming and this Paris farm is committed to sustainable agriculture. They grow the hops and rye for their award-winning beer at their local farm.

In addition, they use other local ingredients which all boils down to a fresh tasting beer! And the beer is brewed, tapped, bottled and labelled at Wincey Mills.

The great thing about Paris Beer Company is that they have a taproom, restaurant, and bottle shop all in one convenient location.

If you’re looking to pair some food with your beer tasting, you’ll find an interesting menu at Paris Beer Company. It’s filled with salads, sharables and everything from wings to vegan options. Plus, they also serve hearty mains like Beer Battered Fish & Chips, burgers, pizza and more.

Paris is known as one of Ontario’s towns with a European vibe. And at Paris’s brewery you’ll be transported to Munich with their own outdoor Biergarten!

Elberta Farms Country Market

I’m always on the hunt for farm fresh goodies along the backroads of Ontario! So, I always stop at farm markets.

A great farm market in Paris is Elberta Farms Country Market. Located ten minutes east of downtown Paris, the market makes a perfect stop all year long!

I love that Elberta Farms is open throughout the year and has such a wide variety of items. Inside you’ll find shelves lined with preserves and fresh produce.

They also sell awesome apple cider and the freshest baked goods. Plus, the market sells dairy and meat products.

This is a family friendly stop as you’ll make a few friends to meet. Their goats and chickens are always a hit with everyone who visits.

Discover More Fun Things to do in Paris Ontario

This small town knows how to pack a lot into the cutest small town in Ontario! For those looking to spend the weekend in Paris I’ve more fun things to do. There are plenty of places to see in Paris and its surrounding county of Brant.

Take a Food Tour in Paris

Are you a foodie? Consider taking a food tour with Tasty Road Trips . Jan from Tasty Road Trips offers a range of food tours, both guided and self-guided for you to check out some of the fun places to eat in Paris.

It’s the perfect way to explore the town as it pairs great food and hidden gems. If you’re looking for romantic things to do in Paris Ontario this is a sure place to start.

Go Shopping in Paris

One of my favourite things to do in Paris is go shopping! There are a bunch of incredible local boutiques for those looking to enjoy shopping in Paris. You can browse or shop in Paris for unique vintage wear, books, and more.

A great place to start is in Paris Wincey Mills Market. Here you’ll find everything from treats to vintage goods. My favourite shop is Bird & Bee Vintage.

Downtown Paris is home to a diverse variety of shops. A few favourites of mine are Green Heron Books, From The Attic Interiors, and Bohemian Gallery. For a mix of unique items from local artisans pop into the Gem Marketplace. And for cool vintage clothing I love browsing the racks of Judy Jean Vintage.

Take in the Best View of Paris

If you’re looking for the best views of Paris there are a few. From the William Street Bridge, you can take in the Grand River and the back of all the shops and patios. This is my favourite view and has lead to countless photos!

But another one of the best view of Paris from the Lookout – it’s on Google Maps ! It’s located on King Edward Street and offers a near birds-eye view of downtown Paris.

Visit Lion’s Park

If you’re looking for a short walk, head over to Paris’s Lion’s Park. You can access Lion’s Park from downtown. A picturesque bridge crosses the Nith River at the end of Mechanic Street, just west of Wincey Mills. There is also a parking lot for the park off of Laurel Street.

Lion’s Park is a lovely place to stroll, take in the gardens, and it also gives you access to a few trails. The park is also home to a splash pad, playground, and more. If you’re looking for fun things to do in Paris with kids, the park offers plenty of opportunities.

Attend one of the Many Paris Events

There is a variety of fun and family-friendly events in Paris that run throughout the year. In the spring you can attend their Maple Syrup Festival . This sweet festival takes over downtown and is full of vendors, fun activities, and pancakes with maple syrup.

In September there’s the Paris Fair and nearby there’s St. George’s AppleFest. And in the winter you can check out some of the sweetest Christmas markets in Ontario right in Paris! There are a few going on throughout the holiday season across town.

Things to do Near Paris Ontario

Explore small towns near paris ontario.

Paris is surrounded by adorable small towns and villages that are worth exploring! Each has something unique to discover.

A few top small towns near Paris to visit include Mount Pleasant, Glen Morris and Scotland. The community of Glen Morris also sits along the Grand River, just north of Paris. Head out across the Glen Morris bridge to take in the incredible views of the river.

In Scotland there’s a brewery and some food stops. For sweet treats pop into Pies and Tarts from the Heart.

One of my favourite hidden gems near Paris Ontario is Mount Pleasant! Located roughly 15 minutes south of Paris, Mount Pleasant has some unique spots to visit.

The big attraction in Mount Pleasant is The Windmill Country Market. This sprawling two floor market is packed full of fun finds.

On the first floor is a massive market selling a variety of food like fresh baked goods, local produce, frozen meals, and more. Upstairs you’ll find an assortment of home décor, gift ideas, and furniture. I always find something special when I visit.

Mount Pleasant also boast a few outdoor spots. The Lake Erie & Northern Electric Railway Trail runs through town. Plus, at Mount Pleasant Nature Park there are a number of short but scenic trails.

Enjoy Teat at Abigail’s Tea House

You’ll find one of the best afternoon teas in Ontario experiences near Paris. In the village of St. George, 15 minutes east of downtown Paris is Abigails Tea House.

Abigail’s Tea House is a full-service tea house that serves a variety of ethically sourced teas and delectable food. They offer a number of different high tea options. These include High Tea, Celebration Tea, and Garden Tea.

Each of the high tea options varying in offerings. The High Tea is a full traditional assortment of tea sandwiches, scones, sweets and teas. While the others offer a selection of the High Tea menu. Plus, they also have a Ladybug Young Person’s Tea.

Beyond the incredible high tea spreads, what I love about Abigail’s is the atmosphere! The décor is colourful and whimsical. There’s patterned wallpaper and birdcages over the chandeliers.

High tea at Abigail’s is perfect if you’re looking for date ideas in Paris Ontario. Or a fun girl’s weekend!

Pinehurst Lake Conservation Area

If you’re looking for more fun outdoor things to do near Paris then visit Pinehurst Lake Conservation Area. This large park is a short 10-minute drive north of downtown Paris.

Pinehurst Lake Conservation Area is home to a scenic kettle lake that is surrounded by picturesque forest. In the summer, the park is a great spot to go hiking, paddling or enjoy a picnic.

The park also offers over 100 campsites, which is great if you’re looking for budget-friendly accommodation near Paris.

You’ll find 10 kms of trails throughout the park. And if you’re a birder like me, Pinehurst is a great spot for bird watching. A few species I spotted while hiking there include Cooper’s hawk, red-head woodpecker, and a bald eagle.

For those visiting Paris in the winter, the park is perfect to enjoy some snowshoeing.

St George Apple Fest

St. George is such a little gem! It’s home to one of the top attractions in Brant County , the St. George Apple Fest.

For over 35 years the small town celebrates the fall harvest with this family-friendly event. There’s plenty of things to do and see all weekend long.

The St. George Apple Fest takes place every year on the third week of September. It boasts over 130 vendors selling everything from fresh apples to crafts.

Along with artisans, the main focus is all things apple! You’ll find homemade apple pies, apple dumplings, apple cider, and so much more.

Plus, there’s live entertainment, food trucks, and lots of kid’s activities. And the best part, it’s free!

Final Thoughts on Paris

Every time I visit Paris I fall even more in love with this pretty little town. There’s always something new to discover, from new shop to new food stop. So, if you’re looking for a fun getaway, you’ll find countless things to do in Paris Ontario to fill a weekend!

Where to Stay in Paris Ontario

As mentioned above, my favourite place to stay in Paris is the Arlington Hotel! However, there are a number of other acommodations.

The Carriage House is another little gem that visitors enjoy. It offers a central location downtown and close to all of the top Paris sights.

Davidson Motel is a budget-friendly accommodation. It’s located 5 minutes east of downtown Paris.

Other Small Towns You’ll Also Love

Elora – located in Wellington County (35 mins. north of Kitchener)

Erin – located in Wellington County (1 hour northwest of Toronto)

Creemore – located in Simcoe County (35 mins. west of Barrie)

Goderich – located in Huron County (2.5 hours west of Toronto)

Bayfield – located in Huron County (2.5 hours west of Toronto)

Bracebridge – located in Muskoka (2 hours north of Toronto)

Tobermory – located in Bruce County (3.5 hours north-west of Toronto)

Books to Help Plan Your Next Ontario Adventure

Are you looking for more information to help plan your small town Ontario trip? There are a host of great books that will inspire you to dig deeper into Ontario. But I’ve done the work for you! Here are a few books to check out.

Backroads of Ontario  – where you’ll discover incredible places and hidden gems that you’ll find on the backroads of Ontario. Including a few of these small towns as well as the scenic drives to take to get you there.

Top 160 Unusual Things to See in Ontario  – if you’re on the hunt for more interesting places to visit and things to see during your Ontario travels then this is a fun book to pick up.

Ontario ’s Ghost Town Heritage – is you’re looking for those long-forgotten charming small towns then this is the book for you! Discover some of Ontario’s strange and incredible ghost towns, and their interesting history.

Discover Ontario  – in this book you’ll read about stories from the people and places that make up Ontario. There’s everything from unusual places to interesting people and the book shares their history and more.

Frequently Asked Questions about Paris Ontario

Yes, Paris Ontario is worth visiting for its charming downtown, great restaurants and outdoor activities.

Paris Ontario is approximately 110 km from Toronto, with a driving time of roughly 1.5 hours.

Paris Ontario is famous for being named one of the prettiest small towns in Canada. It also has a very European vibe and is full of cobblestone buildings.

Harrowsmith Magazine named Paris Ontario “the Prettiest Little Town in Canada.”

The closest city to Paris Ontario is Brantford, which is 20 minutes southeast of the small town.

Paris Ontario is part of Brant County in Southern Ontario.

There are a number of walking trails in Paris Ontario including, the Cambridge to Paris Rail Trail, SC Johnson Trail, Distillery Lane Trail, and Nith River Trail.

Paris Ontario is the cobblestone capital of Canada and is home to over 12 cobblestone buildings.

Paris Ontario is named after Plaster of Paris because of the gypsum deposits from the Grand River that was used in the making of Plaster of Paris.

Paris Ontario is small and covers just over 13 square km.

LIKE IT? PIN IT for Later!

Tags: Canada Ontario Paris Ontario

I'm a Canadian gal with a passion for travel, the great outdoors as well as coffee and books. I hope to inspire others to feel the same way! Traveling mostly solo, I love to explore my own backyard of Ontario as well as exotic cities around the world.

You may also like...

Budget-friendly Gem in Venice

May 17, 2016

 by Stephanie · Published May 17, 2016

Writer Wednesdays – Pauline Conolly

April 9, 2014

 by Stephanie · Published April 9, 2014 · Last modified December 31, 2016

Books Inspire Travel Around the World

March 20, 2016

 by Stephanie · Published March 20, 2016 · Last modified December 22, 2023

• Next story  14 Free Things to Do in the West Midlands, UK
• Previous story  14 Best Stops on a Toronto to Ottawa Drive

Hey there, I'm Stephanie and am the gal behind The World As I See It. I have a passion for travel, hiking, and local travel in Ontario! Let me take you along on my journey exploring my own backyard - including Ontario small towns, cafes, and trails to cities around the globe. I hope you will be inspired to get out and explore your backyard and beyond!

TOP ONTARIO BLOGGER

TOP CANADIAN TRAVEL BLOGGER

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

Nature Trails near Paris, Ontario

Our locations.

How to display multiple map marker in one Google Map.

View in Google Map

S. c. johnson trail, cambridge to paris trail, distillery lane trail, nith river trail, pinehurst lake trails, please support our local advertising partners they help keep ontario nature trails growing.

Advertise your business to people visiting your region or town. Reserve your spot now

Trail Features

• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

Must Do Canada

The Best Things to Do in Canada

Things to Do in Paris Ontario

December 19, 2023 By Darren Penney Leave a Comment

Known as one of the prettiest towns in Canada and rich in adventures and outdoor activities, there are so many fun things to do in Paris, Ontario.

This southern Ontario town is often lost in the shadow of its overly-famous French namesake, but we can assure you that it’s worth discovering. Nestled in a beautiful river valley at the joining of the Grand and Nith Rivers, Paris is so small that you can easily soak up all the best sights in just a couple of days!

Historic buildings, tumbling waterfalls, scenic spots, and delicious eats all come together to create a classic, small-town charm that’ll win over even the fussiest of travellers. There’s something for just about everyone there, but we think that fans of the great outdoors will be won over by the sheer abundance of nature activities that await.

So without further ado, let’s check out 21 of the best things to do in Paris, Ontario!

Satisfy your Sweet Tooth at Chocolate Sensations

If there’s one thing you can’t miss while visiting Paris, it’s Chocolate Sensations – especially if you have a sweet tooth like us!

And if you’re wondering why this spot made the list of best things to do in Paris, Ontario , wait until you visit this place for yourself. Chocolate Sensations initially started as a family-owned, home-based business but has since become a popular attraction on Grand River Street.

A quick heads-up though: because it’s one of the most popular places in town, it’s not uncommon to see a line snaking out of the door so we recommend that you avoid going there during popular times.

In addition to a wide variety of gourmet chocolate treats, this place is also known for its amazing ice cream. They even have chocolate souvenirs. Some of their bestselling products include their Chocolate Sponge Toffee, Tortoises, Peanut Butter Cups and their Mayan Chocolate Pyramids (my favourite). For something typically local, you can always opt for their maple fudge concoctions rolled in chocolate and dusted with maple sugar. Sounds scrumptious, right?

Kayak Down the Grand River

As the largest river in Southern Ontario, the Grand River is quite a sight to behold!

It won’t take you long to realize that this is among the most popular attractions in Paris, especially in spring and summer. It’s also one of the best kayaking destinations in Ontario, so fans of the great outdoors are definitely in for a treat!

While you can start your kayaking experience from town, many like to start from Glen Morris (found just over 10 km away) and then kayak back into Paris.

The only hitch with this journey is that you’ll need to find a vehicle large enough to accommodate your kayak while you drive to the start-off point. If you’re an experienced kayaker, you can bypass that by planning a round-trip kayaking expedition but bear in mind that this involves some upstream paddling.  

Don’t have a kayak? Well, the good news is that you’ll find several companies offering kayaking trips and rentals, including Grand River Rafting Company and Grand Experiences . These companies also specialize in rafting and tubing.

Take in Some Culture in the Downtown Area

If you’re only in town for a few days and want to cover more ground in less time, we recommend that you sign up for a walking tour of the downtown area .

Some of the best things to do in Paris Ontario await, including a tour of The Paris Wincey Mills Co., an upscale micro-market that houses plenty of local businesses. The tour also features a stop by the historic Penman’s Dam, a charming little spot where you can relax over a picnic while enjoying views of the manmade waterfall- but more on that later!  

Best of all, your guide will let you in on plenty of fun titbits about Paris. Oh, and did we mention that you’ll be treated to a scrumptious crème brulée?

Stock up on Fresh Canadian Goodies at Elberta Farm

In our opinion, there’s no better way to soak up Paris’ ridiculously charming atmosphere than by visiting the Elberta Farms Country Market .

Located just on the outskirts of Paris, this farm is quite popular among the locals since it offers various types of produce and other goodies that you don’t usually find in urban centres. Dating back to 1966, the farm is especially known for its baked goods, maple syrup, cheese, jams, and pies.

And if you’re travelling with the kids, they’ll no doubt enjoy meeting the farm’s resident goats and ducks.

Visit the Bell Homestead National Historic Site

No list of best things to do in Paris Ontario would be complete without a stop by the Bell Homestead National Historic Site . After all, Brant County is known for being the place where Alexander Graham Bell invented the telephone!

While this historic site is not exactly in Paris, it’s just a 20-minute drive away and well worth the trip. Not only will you see where Alexander Graham Bell worked and lived, but you’ll also learn more about how he invented the telephone.

There are heaps of year-round events and activities, including educational trips and tours, and you’ll also find a wonderful museum store if you’re looking for souvenirs.

Here’s an interesting bit of trivia for you: did you know that the very first long-distance phone call that Alexander Graham Bell made was to a shoe store in Paris, Ontario?

Check out Penman’s Dam at Night

Previously, we mentioned Penman’s Dam as part of a walking tour. If you do have some extra time to spare though, we strongly suggest that you set aside a good couple of hours to properly visit the Dam and soak up its natural beauty.

Built in 1918 to provide waterpower to the mills, this dam now offers an idyllic setting where you can put up your feet and relax after a full day of sightseeing. While it’s no doubt beautiful during the day, it’s especially beautiful to visit it at night. Each evening, the dam is lit up in bright hues known as the ‘Lights of the Paris Falls’.

The lit-up waterfall looks spectacular from any angle, but the best vantage point is from the William Street Bridge.

Hike the Cambridge to Paris Rail Trail

Just a short distance from Penman’s Dam takes you to the Cambridge-Paris Rail Trail , another attraction that’s said to be among the best things to do in Paris Ontario.

This 18-kilometre-long trail can be pretty challenging, so make sure you’re in good physical condition if you’re planning on covering the entire route. You’ll need more than five hours to hike from point to point, unless you choose to cycle it instead.

Rest assured that the trail is speckled by plenty of scenic spots for those who’d rather enjoy a leisurely stroll instead of an arduous hike. In fact, makes for a relaxing halfway stop that’s well-equipped with washrooms.

It’s not uncommon to see locals walking, cycling, or jogging part of the trail early in the afternoon. The trail is also dog-friendly but make sure that your pooch is leashed.  

The Cambridge to Paris Rail trail offers an excellent viewpoint for seeing the train bridge crossing over the Grand River. And if this sight seems familiar to you, that’s because it was featured in several Hallmark movies!

Take a Day Trip to Niagara Falls

We know, we know. Niagara Falls isn’t in Paris. But if you feel like taking a scenic road trip, rest assured that the iconic falls are just over an hour’s drive away.

To really elevate your experience, you can always consider signing up for a scenic helicopter flight above Niagara Falls .

Perfect for thrill-seekers, this 12-minute activity promises the ride of a lifetime aboard an Airbus H130 that can accommodate up to 7 guests. The cabin is fitted with large windows, allowing you to take in those mesmerizing sights from virtually all angles!

The helicopter tour takes you from the Whirlpool to the Rainbow Bridge. Along the way, you’ll pass by spots like the Bridal Veil Falls, the American Falls, Skylon Tower, and Queen Victoria Park. You’ll also see the famous Canadian Horseshoe Falls bathed in rainbows.

On a clear day, you might even see Toronto’s city skyline on your way back. Onboard narration is also available in various languages.

Treat Yourself to a Meal at Juniper

Next up on our list of top things to do in Paris Ontario is a restaurant that’s practically an institution in town! This fine dining restaurant is always jam-packed though, so it’s a good idea to make your reservations well in advance .

What makes Juniper special is that despite its fine dining menu, the restaurant still has a relaxed and comfortable vibe. This French bistro is fun by Chef Andrea Legacey who specializes in Lyonnaise Bouchon cuisine.

Everything is gloriously fresh and made from scratch- even their Crostinis which we highly recommend! They also have an extensive wine list, but we especially love their inventive range of aromatic cocktails. By the way, it’s good to know that each weekday, the restaurant offers $5 house wines paired with half-priced oysters between 5 p.m. and 7 p.m.

By the way, the bar has over 14 different types of gin, most made by Dillons Distillers – so if you like gin, you definitely are in the right place!

Catch an Event at the Paris Fairgrounds

It’s a well-known fact that Ontario is one of the most diverse and populated provinces in Canada. This includes plenty of fun events, one of which takes place in Paris!

That’s right – each year, the Paris Fairgrounds plays host to a wide assortment of events, including the Holiday Makers, the Fall Craft and Vendor Show, the Butter Tart Festival, and the Maple Syrup Festival.

December is particularly animated at the Fairgrounds, with festivals like the Paris Christmas Poutine Fest and the Old Tim Country Christmas Concert. By far the most popular event is the Paris Fair, which is normally held on Labor Day weekend. You can expect plenty of interactive exhibits, thrilling rides, and (of course) delicious eats!

Be sure to check the official event calendar to see if there’s anything you’d like to catch while you’re in town.

Sample Local Brews at the Paris Beer Company

Of all the indoor activities available in town, visiting the Paris Beer Company is one of the best!

Located at the back of Wincey Mills Market, the Paris Beer Company is the very first taproom brewery in town. It’s a relatively new place, having recently opened in 2020.

Beer aficionados have it made since the brewery only uses high-quality ingredients- not surprising since they’ve been farmers for seven whole generations! They use their hops grown on their farm. Everything is brewed, tapped, bottled, and labelled in the Wincey Mills building .

As such, an elevated beer experience awaits at the brewery, complete with individual attention from their experienced beer connoisseurs who will take you through the brewing process and help you find the best food pairings.

After sampling their best brews, you can always grab a bite to eat at the Biergarten, which is an outdoor extension of the brewery’s restaurant and taproom.

Wander the Nith River Sensory Trail

It wouldn’t be a list of top things to do in Paris Ontario without mentioning the Nith River Sensory Trail!

This 270-metre trail was designed to accommodate people of all abilities, so you don’t need to be a great hiker to stroll this route. The interactive trail features a host of features, including an accessible picnic table, a paved path, braille signs, and a guided rope for the visually impaired. The Nith River Sensory Trail is also stroller and wheelchair friendly. You can also take advantage of the outdoor musical instruments, sensory gardens, and the birdhouses made and decorated by the locals.

As you wander the beautiful, tree-lined setting, keep your eyes peeled for flyfishermen who often go fishing there. This makes for a great photograph!

Take a Cobblestone Tour

Did you know that Paris is said to be the Cobblestone Capital of Canada?

As it turns out, Paris is home to no less than twelve cobblestone houses, two cobblestone churches, and a few garden walls as well. In the mid-1800s, these small, circular stones were actually sourced from the Grand River and stacked with cement to construct various types of buildings.

If you’re a history buff, we do not doubt that you’ll enjoy a self-guided cobblestone tour of the town! A few good places to start would be the St. James Anglican Church at 8 Burwell St.

Another great example of cobblestone architecture in Paris is Hamilton Place which, ironically enough, was built by a New Yorker. Later on, Hamilton Place housed local artist Paul Wickson who completed some of his best works in the Belvedere.

If this is your first time visiting Paris, you can always consider signing up for a guided tour to see the cobblestone buildings. We can recommend Tasty Road Trips which offers both pre-planned and tailor-made experiences in Paris.

Embark on a Self-Guided Driving Adventure

In our opinion, there’s no better way to uncover all the best things to do in Paris Ontario than to simply take a walk around town. When the weather’s cold though, a self-guided driving tour is an excellent alternative!

Also offered by Tasty Road Trips, this five-hour, all-inclusive activity is well-suited to travellers who want to take in the best sights in just one day. Best of all, you’ll visit both Paris and Brantford!  

Your first stop will be a Farmer’s Market, where you can embark on a market culinary experience, complete with three tastings. You’ll also visit Colborne Street, which houses plenty of quirky hidden gems, including a really cool vintage shop. If you’re feeling peckish, you can always check out the oldest pizzeria in town, which is also found on Colborne Street.

Another highlight of this tour is the Wilkes Dam, a place considered by many to be the most Instagrammable spot in Paris.

Take the Kids to Lions Park

Travelling with the kids and looking for ways to keep them entertained during your stay in Paris? Then you can always head to Lions Park . This is a pretty popular place since it offers direct access to various trails, including the Trans Canada and the Nith River Sensory routes. You can also cut through the park on your way to Downtown Paris.

Oodles of fun beckon at Lions Park, complete with a children’s playground and jungle gyms. There’s also an amphitheatre that hosts seasonal events like the Outdoor Movie Nights and Music in the Park Concerts.

Don’t hesitate to pack some snacks since the park also has some lovely picnic areas!

Visit the Paris Museum and Historical Society

Perfect for history buffs, the Paris Museum and Historical Society is an absolute gem of a place that showcases various artifacts and displays centred around the local community. Operated by volunteers, this establishment also boasts exhibits about the invention of the telephone and giant quilts featuring Paris’ cobblestone homes.

The exhibits are constantly rotating, allowing visitors to see something new with each visit. Right now, they currently have an exhibit about vintage Paris kitchens, complete with old-school screens and retro pictures of refrigerator production.

The local research team often fulfils research requests from the community as well as from neighbouring cities like Oakville, Burlington, Hamilton, and Toronto. Visitors can submit their research request for a $20-hour research fee. Alternatively, you can also riffle through the museum’s archives for a $20 fee per visit.

Keep an eye on the museum’s calendar to see if any event tickles your fancy during your stay in Paris. Popular events include the Cobblestone Quilt Raffle and the Indoor Yard Sale.

FYI, the museum is closed Sunday through Tuesday, but you can always visit between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. Wednesday to Saturday.  

Stop By the Dog-Eared Café

Here’s one that takes the cake (literally and figuratively) as far as the best things to do in Paris Ontario are concerned!

Combining two of our favourite things – good books and coffee – the Dog-Eared Café is modelled after old-fashioned European coffeehouses.

With gorgeous Grand River views, comfy couches and carefully curated coffee, this place is no doubt a bookworm’s dream come true since it also doubles as a second-hand bookstore. Best of all, all the proceeds from the bookstore go to charity, giving you the chance to support the local economy.

Oh, and it’s not just coffee and cakes either: this place also offers wine and beer that you can enjoy during their theme nights and gatherings. We’ve heard great things about their Maple Oat Lattes.  

Pitch a Tent Along the Grand River

Okay, we’ve covered rafting, tubing, and kayaking down the Grand River, but if you’d like to prolong the fun, why not plan an overnight camping trip right by the river?

Just a 10-minute drive from Paris takes you to the Brant Conservation Area, a lush park with some of the best camping facilities in the area. There are heaps of amenities onsite, including showers, washrooms, firepits, picnic tables, and running water.

Alternatively, you can also consider the Pinehurst Conservation Area Campsites which lie just a short distance from the Cambridge-Glen Morris-Paris route. This particular campsite is located just 5 km from Paris.

For something closer to town, be sure to check out Birley Gates Camping , located a mere 3 minutes from Paris. While you can opt for traditional camping experiences, Birley Gates also offers the option of renting a trailer set up. This is also a great option for visitors who’d like to go fly fishing .  

Cycle to Port Dover

We’re sure by now you’ve realized Paris is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream come true!

In fact, one of the absolute top things to do in Paris Ontario is to explore its many cycling trails. For a truly epic adventure, we recommend cycling the off-road rail trail from Paris to Port Dover.

Various route options are available, so you can always pick one based on your level of fitness. Experienced cyclers can even kick off their journey from Hamilton, cycle through Paris, and end their trip by the shores of Lake Erie in Port Dover.

Ontario By Bike (partnered with the Canadian Automobile Association) has plenty of great resources, including the different routes, GPS, and maps, so check the website before you hit the trail.  

Wander Paris Main Street

Nothing embodies the old-town charm that Paris is known for better than the Main Street!

Not only does this area offer easy access to shopping and dining at the Wincey Mills Market, but you’ll also find benches overlooking the Grand River.

If you visit in summer, you can always head to the Pavilion found on Grand River Street (next to the 2 Rivers Restaurant) to enjoy live music every Thursday evening. During the festive season, Main Street is filled with carol singers from various local groups.

Get your Art Game on at the Paris Bohemian Gallery

For art lovers, there’s no better destination in town than the Paris Bohemian Gallery , located on William Street in the downtown area.

You’ll find numerous artworks from local artists, including sculptures, paintings, and even souvenirs that you can take back home with you. In addition, the gallery regularly holds curated exhibitions and thought-provoking events.

If you’re feeling creative, you can always consider signing up for a workshop like Fused Glass Dish or Needle Felting.  

Getting to Paris, Ontario

First things first though: how do you get to Paris?

Well, the good news is that it’s quite easy to reach the town. For starters, Paris is just minutes from Highway 403, not to mention a short drive from Brantford, Hamilton , and Cambridge. It’s also only two hours from the big city of Toronto .

Here are some practical ways to get there:

• Train and Bus: While there’s no actual station in town, you can always hop on a train to the Brantford Train Station and catch a bus into Paris. Buses are also available from Cambridge and Toronto .
• Car: If you’re driving from Toronto, we recommend that you take Highway 403 to Highway 2 in Brant County since this is the quickest route. Visitors driving from Waterloo Regional Municipality can always take the Kitchener-Trussler Road route, known for its scenic views. There’s also the Ontario 24 South-Regional Road 14 for those driving into town from Cambridge.

There are plenty of parking spots in town. Most of them are found in front of the stores or on the street. There’s also a spacious Municipal Parking Lot which offers free parking for three hours.

To familiarize yourself with the different parking lots, you can always check out the official map of Downtown Paris here .

How to Get Around Paris Ontario

Paris is a small town and it’s quite easy to walk from one point to the next- so don’t forget to pack your best walking shoes!

As we mentioned above, there are plenty of buses to take you out of the city. To head to nearby airports, you also take advantage of shuttle transfers like MyAirLink or use a carpool service . Depending on where you’re going, you can download the Brant Transit App through Google Play or the iPhone App Store .

Best Time to Visit Paris, Ontario

In our opinion, Paris is the kind of destination that’s got something to offer virtually all year round! Fall is filled with beautiful sights, spring and summer lend themselves well to outdoorsy adventures, while winter sees the entire town decked out in festive lights.

However, there’s no denying that Paris’ has plenty (and we do mean plenty !) of open-air activities on offer. To take advantage of warm-weather activities, we recommend visiting from June to September.

Where to Stay in Paris

Paris has some lovely places where you can crash after an exciting day of sightseeing. Don’t forget that the town is quite small though and hotels do get filled up quickly during peak season. As such, you may wish to make your reservations well in advance.  

Here are a few spots that look great to us:

• The Arlington Hotel – BW Signature Collection

Located just over 30 km from Waterloo International Airport, the Arlington Hotel – BW Signature Collection offers various room configurations starting from $132 to $193 per night.

Guests can take advantage of various onsite facilities, including luggage storage, a 24-hour front desk, room service, an onsite bar, and daily breakfast. There’s also an on-site restaurant specializing in local dishes.

• TownePlace Suites by Marriott Brantford and Conference Centre

Located just a 16-minute drive from Downtown Paris, this hotel offers spacious suites and studios ranging from $104 to $134. Some units are also designed to accommodate pets.

With a stay at this hotel, you’ll be just 30 minutes from Hamilton’s  John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport. Onsite amenities include an indoor pool, fitness centre, and daily complimentary breakfast.

Where to Eat in Paris Ontario

Here are some of our favourite places to eat in Paris:

• Edit Restaurant : Found in the Arlington Hotel, Edit Restaurant is known for its creative dishes. Their menu is constantly changing since Chef Matt Kershaw only uses seasonal ingredients.
• Stillwaters Plate and Pour : With amazing views of the Grand River, this restaurant offers a delectable, Canadian-inspired menu. It’s located on Grand River Street North.
• Detour Coffee : Perfect for fuelling up with a quick bite and some coffee after a day of exploring Paris, Detour Coffee is a relatively new addition to the town’s culinary scene. It’s found in the lively Wincey Mills on Mechanic Street.

Looking for more things to do in Ontario and beyond ?

As great as Paris is, there’s so much more to this massive Canadian province. For more ideas on what to do, check out these guides below:

• Things to do in London, Ontario
• Things to do in Kingston, Ontario
• Things to Do in Ottawa

Reader Interactions

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Please enter an answer in digits: two + seventeen =

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

© 2022 Must Do Canada. All Rights Reserved.

Things to Do in Canada

• Privacy Policy
• Work With Us
• Get in Touch
• Facts about Canada
• Canadian Languages
• Canadian Money
• Canada Flags
• Things to Do in Calgary
• Best Canada Road Trips
• Best Road Trip Essentials
• Fall in Canada
• Travel Resources

• Destinations
• Outdoor Adventures
• Travel Photography
• Trip Planning
• Bucket List
• Terms/Privacy
• Travel Resource Library

Paddle the Grand River – The best things to do in Paris, Ontario and Brant County

Grab a paddle; it’s time to cast off and enjoy the peaceful pace of the Grand River through a lovely paddling trip. Take advantage of the Brant Blue Canoe Experience when you book an adventure through a Brant County outfitter and receive tokens to use in Paris, St. George, Glen Morris and more. Turn your paddling adventure into a small-town experience with this ultimate guide of the best things to do in Paris, Ontario and Brant County.

NOTE: Travel is not recommended at this time. These posts are here to serve as inspiration when we can explore again. Hey there – this post likely contains affiliate links, which means I earn a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you purchase from them. This helps me earn a few dollars to run this website.

This post was sponsored by Brant County Tourism, Heart of Ontario and the Brant Blue Canoe. As always, all opinions are my own.

Where is Brant County?

Tell me more about paris, ontario, choose your grand river adventure, the turbo rafts, what can you see along the way, what to bring paddling, juniper dining co, paris, paris surf, paris (blue canoe), the cedar house grill and martini bar, paris, stillwaters plate and pour, paris, ny midtown kitchen, paris (blue canoe), trattoria at midtown, paris, cobblestone public house, paris, devlin’s country bistro and catering, mount pleasant, drongkowski’s farm market and deli, st. george (blue canoe), la cantinella, st. george, abigail’s tea house, st. george, taste of paris walking food tour, sips and eats road trip, piper and oak, paris, chocolate sensations, paris, paris bakery, paris (blue canoe), the artisans’ collective, paris (blue canoe), flashback consignment, paris, the paris bohemian gallery, paris, wincey mills, paris (blue canoe), windmill country market, mount pleasant, classic vault emporium, st. george, painted out inc, st. george, arlington hotel, paris (blue canoe), little paris bed and breakfast, paris (blue canoe), lions park, paris, barker’s bush, paris, penman’s dam, paris, the shoe tree, paris, pinehurst lake conservation area, glen morris, mount pleasant nature park, mount pleasant, cambridge to paris rail trail, brant, apps mills nature centre, brant, asa wolverton house, paris, the cobblestone buildings, paris, german woollen mill ruins, glen morris, adelaide hunter hoodless homestead national historic site, st. george, the ultimate guide to paris, ontario and brant county.

I’ve lived on the Grand River for 98.5% of my life, yet I can count on two hands the number of times I’ve been on the water either in a boat, sail, canoe or stand-up paddleboard. That clearly had to change.

The Grand River is a peaceful river that flows 280 kilometres from Grey County to Lake Erie. It’s one of the largest rivers in Ontario, and nearly one million people live in the watershed. Because of its ease of access, calm current and wide track, the Grand is perfect for all sorts of paddlers.

The Grand River meanders through Brant County, a rural municipality located in southwestern Ontario. Brant is made up of small towns like charming Paris, St. George, Burford, Glen Morris, Mount Pleasant and more. Paris is only 40 minutes from Hamilton and an hour from London, making it perfect for a day trip from the city!

Paris, Ontario is indirectly named after Paris, France. It was named for the gypsum deposits that were found here. Gypsum is a mineral used in plaster and because of the mines near Paris, France, and its common use in buildings, the mineral became known as the Plaster of Paris. So, that’s how the Forks of the Grand became Paris, Ontario.

Paris is also where the Nith River meets the Grand River, so you get this cool historic area since there were so many mills and ruins. If you walk down the streets, you’ll see all the heritage homes that were lovingly restored.

Paris is known for its incredible art scene and delicious restaurants, and the surrounding Brant County is the perfect place for a rural escape. From the rolling hills to the small towns to the outdoor adventures like canoeing and kayaking, Paris and Brant County have it all.

Insider tip: There is a small pullout on King Edward Street that gives you an amazing lookout over the town of Paris. You can see the Grand River, the rail line and the tops of the historic downtown buildings.

Take advantage of the Brant Blue Canoe

What is the Brant Blue Canoe Experience? Basically, if you book an outdoor adventure with one of the two local outfitters, you receive two tokens to use at the participating restaurants, shops, and art galleries in Brant County.

The tokens are valid until April 30, 2020, (which makes it perfect for Christmas shopping) and you can find the whole list of the participating vendors here !

The stretch of Grand River between Glen Morris and Brantford seems to be the most idyllic for all sorts of paddlers. Here you’ll find mill ruins, wildlife and beautiful vistas. This part of the Grand River goes through the Canadian portion of the Carolinian Forest, an area known for its predominance of deciduous trees like birch, oak, hickory and more.

There are two awesome rafting companies that you can choose for a paddling trip down the Grand River: Grand River Rafting and Grand Experiences.

Grand River Rafting started in 2006 with four rafts and have grown to host over 40,000 people in 2018. With Grand River Rafting, there are three routes you can go on:

• A 17.5km trip from Cambridge to Paris for intermediate/ experienced paddlers;
• An 11.5km trip from Glen Morris to Paris for beginners to experienced paddlers; and
• A 13km Paris to Brant Park trip for beginners to experienced paddlers.

Grand River Rafting also offers a slew of rafts to choose from, like the eight-person rafts, eight-person stand-up paddleboards, turbo rafts, tandem kayaks along with all the regular types of rafts.

Grand River Rafting ranks in the top 2% out of 1,700 outdoor adventures in Ontario.

Not to be outdone, Grand Experiences has won over a dozen awards for their incredible selection of outdoor adventures from hiking to biking to paddling.

They, too, offer guided and self-guided trips along the Grand River. One of the coolest trips they offer is the Voyage of the Iroquois five-hour guided paddling and hiking trip on the Grand River on their 12-person voyager canoe. It’s an Indigenous-focused trip to help you learn about the natural and human history of the area. You can find out more about that trip here .

Choosing the outfitter is really up to you. Both are incredibly well-versed in their field and have many five-star reviews.

I chose to take a turbo raft trip from Glen Morris to Paris, as I don’t have a tonne of experience paddling and two other friends recommended the experience to me.

RELATED: What to Pack for Canada in Summer

Paddle the Grand River from Glen Morris to Paris

As I’ve mentioned, I’ve lived on the Grand River most of my life, so I was incredibly eager to get out on the water and paddle. The trip from Glen Morris to Paris took about four hours with a 30-minute lunch break and getting stuck in the shallows a couple of times. The Grand River flow rates change drastically throughout the year, and later in the summer means lower flow rates, which means you go a lot slower.

And that was perfectly fine with me. The current kept you moving, with some spots were faster than others. There were at least seven swifts and rapids on the route. Now, that got me a bit nervous, because what do I know about navigating rapids?  But, it was so easy. The rapids are not what you see when you go whitewater rafting, they were small “lumps” in the water that you could go over without breaking a sweat.

The worst problem was getting stuck on the rocks at these rapids because the Grand River is not very deep in this area. But with a little wiggling and shuffling, we broke free.

I really enjoyed the turbo rafts, it’s like a mix between a kayak and a dingy. It had a backrest and an elevated seat and lots of room for your legs and your dry bag. However, they have absolutely no control. If you stop paddling, you will immediately go in circles.

The turbo rafts were very comfortable and I felt super safe as we were not going to tip or sink. They are perfect for beginner paddlers.

Some of the cool things to see along the way include the German Woollen Mill, which you can see pretty well from the water, the Glen Morris Road Bridge, a natural spring that you can drink from, and the “Three Sisters,” three stone pillars that are remnants of an old train bridge.

About halfway along the trip, you’ll come across Norm’s Island, which has a picnic table and a small fire pit. It is the perfect place for lunch!

There is one section called “The Shallows” where you might need to get out of the boat. It’s only ankle deep, so we got stuck for a good five minutes before we gave up and got out.

It was a phenomenal experience and I can’t wait to go again next summer.

You get a raft, paddle, life jacket, dry bag and map when you get to the starting point of your journey, but there are a couple of other things you want to bring too.

A dry bag – I went with a friend and we each had one. I brought my camera (Nerve-wracking I know!) so I wanted to bring an extra dry bag, just for that. But it’s also helpful if you want to access your lip balm and you don’t have to call your paddle partner over to get it.

A water bottle – preferably one that is heavy so it doesn’t fly out of the raft. I like my insulated Bubba water bottle. It keeps everything nice and cold for days.

A whistle – for safety reasons. You can just clip it onto your lifejacket.

A hat and sunglasses – the hat will keep the sun off your forehead and the sunglasses are needed for the glare off the water.

Lip balm and sunscreen – protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays!

Water shoes – the bottom of the Grand is rocky and slippery. A good pair of water shoes will help you navigate the shoreline and the shallows.

Bathing suit – You will 100% get wet, from the splashes of the paddles to taking in water from the rapids to getting in and out of the raft. So a bathing suit is necessary.

Clothes you don’t mind getting wet – Seriously, you will get wet. Not just like, oh no my feet are wet kind of wet – but you’re entire bottom half and halfway up your back kind of wet. A quick-drying top, like a rash guard , will be perfect and a pair of workout tights will be your best bet.

Watertight cooler with snacks – we had a hard-lined cooler , which helped us keep the food dry, but you could think about putting the food into a dry bag to keep it dry too. You are going to be using a lot of energy, so make sure to bring some snacks. We brought jerky and those tuna snacks you can get for lunches along with carrots and real-fruit gummies. 

Where to eat in Brant County

After working up a sweat paddling on the Grand River, gather up your Blue Canoe Tokens and head out on the town. You’ll find some of the best dining experiences in Paris, but don’t forget to venture out into the rest of the county for some other delicious stops. Here are the best places to eat in Paris, Ontario and surrounding Brant County.

Juniper Dining Co is a French fine-dining restaurant without the pomp and circumstance. Yes, there’s white tablecloths and extravagant dishes, but it’s also laid back and casual. Try their seasonal dishes and cocktails!

Is it a store? Is it a surf shop? Do they sell seafood? Nope x3. Paris Surf is one of the best pizza joints in the county. Come for the pizza (made to order by hand in a big woodfire stove) and stay for the decor. Inside feels like a mix of California dreams and rustic lodge.

The shop was started by Chip Foster, one of the twin brothers known for their 90s-famous Chip & Pepper California apparel. Paris Surf is part of the Blue Canoe, so if you want to use your token here, you’ll get 15% off your food total.

This establishment is known for its special take on comfort food, craft beer and live music. There are two floors of seating inside, with a fun bar up top and a great outdoor patio to soak up the sunshine.

With a view that can’t be beat, Stillwaters and its rooftop patio is the perfect place to enjoy a delicious market-fresh meal while taking in the gorgeous Grand River. You can enjoy lunch or dinner here, and it’s even open on Sunday for a brunch buffet.

This artisanal New York-style deli and coffee bar is a great place to grab a quick bite to eat. From their fresh sandwiches to hand-made pizzas, to their roasted coffee, they’ve got it all! Including a patio overlooking the Grand River.

NY Midtown Kitchen is part of the Blue Canoe, so if you want to use your token here, you’ll get 25% off any beverage purchase.

If you’re in the mood for something a little fancier, try Trattoria at Midtown, an Italian restaurant, situated right on the Grand River. The restaurant is set in a cellar-like atmosphere and is open just for dinner. They even have a river-side patio.

The Cobblestone Public House has classic British pub fare using fresh and local ingredients. Enjoy a night out with friends at this comfortable and cozy pub.

Devlin’s describes themselves as “upscale contemporary dining with continental cuisine.” They truly have some out-of-this-world dishes on the menu. And they even have oysters! Located in an old general store, post office and residence, the restaurant is one of the surviving heritage structures in Mount Pleasant.

This deli is known for their locally-sourced, handmade small-batch dishes with farm-raised meats and cheeses. They’ve got delicious Charcuterie boards and fresh sandwiches. You can get made-to-order or try one of their prepared take-home meals.

Drongkowski’s Farm Market and Deli is part of the Blue Canoe, so if you want to use your token here, you’ll get $1 off any full-size sandwich.

La Cantinella is a classic Italian restaurant located in the heart of St. George. The cozy atmosphere comes from the rustic 190-year-old inn where the restaurant is now. All the dishes are fresh, using local ingredients and prepared with recipes passed down over generations. Don’t miss their little garden patio!

Situated in an old bank, Abigail’s Tea House has completely transformed the inside into an oasis for tea lovers. From their plush pink chairs to their peacock-laden wallpaper, the lovely tea room is perfect for High Tea. They even have teas from all over the world, but their most popular is their house blend, Abigail’s Raspberry Cream Earl Grey. It’s definitely one of the most delicious blends I’ve tried.

RELATED: Weekend getaway: Best things to do in Almonte, Ontario

Try a Food Tour Experience in Brant County

Above I’ve listed many food options for you to choose from! Too many if you’re staying for a paddle or a weekend! But the best way to experience multiple food stops while learning about a beautiful county is to take a Tasty Road Trips food tour experience.

Tasty Road Trips is run by Spicy Jan, a lovely, spunky woman who is conquering the local food scene. She truly knows everything and everyone in Paris and Brant County. I was lucky enough to be invited on not one but two of her tours, and they are seriously out of this world.

What I love most about Tasty Road Trips is that it’s not all about food. Yes, you get to wander around and taste everything special about Paris and Brant County, but you also get to meet the people behind the food and learn about the history of the area.

Spicy Jan has a passion for food and community, which comes through at every stop. Her tours are one of my favourite things to do in Paris, Ontario.

On the Taste of Paris walking food tour , you’ll wander for three hours around Paris, stopping at places like the Wincey Mills, Paris Bakery, The Cedar House and Juniper, as well as non-food related stops like Wabisabi Crystals and the Bohemian Gallery.

My favourite stop was outside the Paris Bakery where Spicy Jan told us that this location was where Alexander Graham Bell, a Brantford resident who invented the telephone, called from his home in Brantford to make the first long-distance call on August 10, 1876. Then, of course, we dined on mouth-watering chocolate-covered croissants from the Paris Bakery. 

I expected to eat until I was full, but that is not the case. It was perfectly balanced with walking, eating and exploring. Tasty Road Trips is more than a food tour; it’s a food and culture experience. I would have never explored half the things that she took us too on my own. Nor would I have learned so much about the people behind the food, living their passion project.

On the Sips and Eats Road Trip , you’ll be hitting the road for about five hours hopping from place to place in Brant County. You’ll start with some dessert at La Chocolat, right in Brantford, and then head over to Mercasa, a delicious grab-and-go Italian pizzeria/ deli.

Next, you head out of the city to Steel Wheel Brewery to sample a flight of craft brews before heading off to explore St. George. Here, you get to live the good life at Abigail’s Tea House before picking up a special charcuterie board from Drongkowski’s Farm Market and Deli. Dine on the meat and cheese board at Barlow Creek Studio and Mercantile, a vintage store just outside the county.

Then you’ll hop back over to St. George to visit Brantview Farms and Howell Road Cidery, where you can sample apple jams, jellies, mustards, apple doughnuts and different flavours of Howell Road’s delicious handcrafted cider.

You’ll end the tour with a cheese and wine pairing at the beautiful Juniper Dining Co. Delicious!

Consider taking a food tour to experience the sensational food scene that is in Paris and Brant County. Plus, you can use your Blue Canoe token with Spicy Jan’s Tasty Road Trips, meaning you’ll get 10% off each regularly priced tour.

RELATED: 52 day trips from Toronto for every traveller

Where to shop in Brant County

Some of the best things to do in Paris and Brant County are to peruse the shops that are located in the quaint downtowns. This is where the charm of one-of-a-kind shops located in heritage buildings all comes together. 

This lovely home decor shop is perfect if you’re style is bohemian, modern chic. Seriously, I could buy the whole store and re-decorate my entire apartment. They’ve got everything from small gifts to large furniture.

Get your taste buds ready, because you’ll want to try it all at Chocolate Sensations in Paris. From your run-of-the-mill chocolate to hand-crafted chocolate truffles and delights, this shop has it all. Plus it smells like warm chocolate as soon as you walk in the doors. They also have ice cream for when it’s too hot outside. 

What’s better than freshly baked bread, sweet cookies or homemade doughnuts? Nothing. And the Paris Bakery does it all. The bakers are in every morning making all these fabulous treats, and they often sell out, so you’ll want to pre-order or go with an open mind and see what they have left when you get there.

Buy one doughnut and get the second free if you want to use your Blue Canoe Token here.

Artists flock to Paris, and it’s easy to see why! It’s such a picturesque town, and with the two rivers, it can be so peaceful. You have to take a look inside the Artisan’s Collective. This shop is really neat because it showcases art and curated items from more than 40 independent local artists.

Plus, if you want to use your Blue Canoe Token here, you’ll get a free item! How awesome is that?

Flashback Consignment is probably one of the coolest vintage/ second-hand stores I’ve ever seen. They’ve got everything you can think of from gently used clothing to artwork to vintage typewriters, all for an amazing price. Spicy Jan got an original Holly O . (who is a famous artist from Paris, Ontario) art piece while she was perusing here.

Another dazzling stop in downtown Paris is the Paris Bohemian Gallery. This funky little art gallery has works from local artists in every medium.

I’m a huge fan of some of the landscapes that are hanging here. It’s a must-see.

If you only stop at one place in Paris, make sure it’s the Wincey Mills. The Paris Wincey Mills is a historic woollen mill that employed a lot of people in its heyday and persevered through the Great Depression and both World Wars.

Today, the Mills has been transformed into an open market. Vendors have permanent booths set up inside on the main floor while officers are on the top and lower levels.

It almost feels like you’re going back in time to when markets were similar to the set up in the Wincey Mills, but the stores themselves are much more modern. You’ll find a butcher and a seafood shop alongside the Olive Oil Company, Blue Dog Cafe and more. There’s also Bird and Bee Vintage Rental Company and the Paris Apothecary. Seriously, there is so much to see.

Plus, with your Blue Canoe token, you’ll receive 10% off counter purchases at Blue Dog Cafe, $1 off any size smoothie at Silverstone Energy Bar, 15% off all products at the Paris Apothecary, $5 off felted market bags at the Office Gallery, or buy three get the fourth free at Original Gourmet Popcorn.  

Another perfect place to stop in Brant County is the Windmill Country Market in Mount Pleasant. This charming market literally has a windmill attached to it and offers visitors a unique way to spend their time. From their country kitchen restaurant to a fresh deli and bakery, they also have gifts, furniture and grocery items.

Another vintage shop in Brant County is the Classic Vault Emporium. They’ve got everything from antique furniture to classic children’s toys to fun decorative signs. Pop in when you’re strolling the streets of St. George.

This cute little shop showcases some of the best up-cycled furniture in town. Not only do they have chalk-painted furniture for sale, but they also have workshops available for you to do it yourself! It’s worth taking a look, especially if you’re in the market for a new piece for your home.

RELATED: Enjoy small-town charm in Elora, Ontario – the ultimate list of things to do in Elora

Where to stay in Paris, Ontario

While Brant County has several Bed and Breakfast-type places to stay, there are two in Paris that are part of the Blue Canoe.

The Arlington Hotel is probably the most famous place to stay in Paris, Ontario. Not only is it the only hotel in Paris, but it’s also got a fascinating history!

This historical boutique hotel has been an important site in downtown Paris since it was built in the 1850s. Today, the Arlington is a gorgeous, one-of-a-kind hotel. Each of the 23 rooms has a literary theme, and are decorated to suit. Listen to some of the hotel room names: Virginia Woolf, Lewis Carroll, Agatha Christie, Brother Grimm, Emily Dickinson, J.R.R. Tolkien, and so many more.  And it’s not just historical authors either; there is a Stan Lee room, a Dr. Seuss room, a Leonard Cohen room and more!

Attached to the hotel is Edit, a cozy dining restaurant that has a menu that changes almost every night based on what’s fresh!

The Arlington also has two private bars, the 1851 Public House and the Library Bar, that are open only for private events. A Blue Canoe token gets you $20 off room rate and free dessert at Edit.

If a Bed and Breakfast is more your style, then look no further than Little Paris B&B . Located in a 100+-year-old home, the Little Paris B&B is perfect for those looking to get away. They even have single rooms for the solo traveller!

And, of course, you’ve got to stay for breakfast! A Blue Canoe token gets you a free breakfast upgrade.

Where to get out in nature in Paris and Brant County

If you haven’t got your fill of nature while paddling down the Grand River then here are some other options for you to explore the wilder side of Paris and surrounding Brant County. Did you know there are 47 parks in Brant County? That’s a lot to choose from! Let’s start with some of my favourites.

Passed the Wincey Mills in Paris, you’ll come to a little garden path that leads over a bridge that crosses the Nith River. On the other side is Lions Park. This riverside park has an amphitheatre where they put on music events throughout the summer. They also have a splash pad, pool, baseball diamond, picnic area, outdoor fitness equipment and trails! This little park seems not so little with all the amazing things to do here.

Barker’s Bush is a forested area that is located right outside the downtown. Park along Broadway Street West and walk down an easy trail to a bridge that crosses the Nith River. There are plenty of trails that weave through this area.

The Penman’s Dam Park in Paris is a little park that sits beside the Penman Dam, which was built in 1918 to help run a textile mill. Today, the water runs over what remains of the dam and mill and is lit up at night. If you are continuing on your journey to Brantford, then this is where you can launch your canoe or kayak.

It’s not so much a natural area, as it is a funky road-side stop. The Shoe Tree is located just outside Paris on Green Lane. What is it exactly? It’s a dead tree that is covered in shoes! Yup, actual shoes. While a Brantford women started this particular one, the phenomenon of nailing shoes to trees is a bit of a mystery. Get out and snap a photo so you can say that you pulled over for this!

Pinehurst Lake Conservation Area is located just north of Glen Morris in Brant County. It’s open year-round for fishing, paddling and hiking and you can camp from May to October. The kettle lake in the middle of the conservation area is perfect for non-motorized boats, and there are 10 kilometres of trails within the park.

Mount Pleasant Nature Park is a scenic area in the village of Mount Pleasant. It was a historic fish hatchery that was turned into a lovely area to walk. The ponds are still stocked, so grab your fishing gear and drop a line.

The Cambridge to Paris Rail Trail is an 18km trail that was an old train rail track running from Cambridge to Paris, Ontario. Today you can hop on the easy, flat trail at 210 Water Street in Cambridge, the parking area at the end of Forbes Street in Glen Morris or the parking lot trailhead on Willow Street in Paris.

Along the way, make sure to stop at the Murray Overlook, near where an old stone bridge was taken down, and a couple of vista points that overlook the Grand River.

You can check out more trails on the Brant County/ Brantford Outdoor Adventure Map .

A completely hidden gem to those that live outside of Brantford and Brant County is Apps Mills Nature Centre, located between Paris and Burford. The 100-hectare forest surrounds Whitemans Creek, where an old flour mill and mill race used to be. There are several short and long trails that weave through the forest and over the creeks.

Visit historic sites in Brant County

Paris and Brant County are filled with rich history. If you’re headed to the area, then read on about some of the historical sites to visit in Brant County.

This pink house, with colonial-style columns, is a historic site. Asa Wolverton, who was from New York, settled in Paris in 1832, where he became a lumber dealer and prosperous businessman in the area. He built this residence in 1851 in a way that was popular in New England but rarely seen in Upper Canada.

The Asa Wolverton House is now a bed and breakfast!

The cobblestone buildings are scattered among Paris. In fact, Paris is known as the cobblestone capital of Canada for its abundance of buildings that used cobblestone in its construction. The Paris Museum, Archives and Historical Society has a cobblestone self-guided tour , where you can learn about the different cobblestone structures in Paris, like the Norman Hamilton home.

The old German Woollen Mill Ruins are located on GRCA property. You can technically get to them by the Cambridge to Paris Rail Trail, but there is a fence and a giant no-trespassing sign around the property. However, the best way to view the ruins is from the water. It’s one of the stops you can make on the Glen Morris to Paris paddling trip.

This national historic site is dedicated to Adelaide Hunter Hoodless, a relatively unknown yet important Canadian woman. The Federated Women’s Institutes of Canada runs the homestead. Adelaide fought for more education for girls and is credited as a co-founder for Women’s Institute, the Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA), the National Council of Women and the Victorian Order of Nurses (VON).

The homestead is open by appointment only or during their regular events.

So there you are, the ultimate guide to best things to do in Paris Ontario and Brant County. If you’re up for an adventure, then taking a paddle down the Grand River is the perfect way to spend the day, plus you’ll get Blue Canoe Tokens to use in shops, restaurants and galleries in Brant County! Whether you’re here for the culinary delights or the outdoor adventures, you’ll be sure to find Good Times in Brant.

Olivia Rutt

Olivia Rutt is the travel writer and photographer behind My Wandering Voyage, a travel website helping working millennials find time to travel. She shares insight in trip planning, travel inspiration and photography tips. Olivia hails from southern Ontario, Canada where she works in the media industry between travels. Follow Olivia on Instagram where she shares her travel photos, or catch up with her on Facebook or Twitter.

Further Reading...

10 treasures to discover in New Brunswick

25+ best scenic lookouts in Ontario you have to see for yourself

Visit Lunenburg and other Nova Scotia UNESCO sites

Mywanderingvoyage.

Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies to improve your browsing experience and analyze the use of the website. Learn More

Self Guided Walking Tours of Paris

In this post, you will find a free, self-guided walking tour of the historic heart of Paris, along with a map and a GPS-enabled audio option.

The route includes many locations we cover in our free guided walking tours, so we offer you lots of information based on our knowledge of the history of what you will be seeing in this self-guided tour.

This tour starts on the Left Bank in the Latin Quarter before exploring Île de la Cité and ends at the Louvre Museum.

When you are done with this self-guided tour, why not try our others?

• Right Bank Landmarks
• Latin Quarter
• Père Lachaise Cemetery

Like this one, they come with maps, routes, and in some cases, audio tour versions.

You can use these to discover the city at your own pace or as a preview of what you will see on a live-guided tour, like our free walking tours of Paris .

Searching Availability...

SELF-GUIDED TOUR - HEART OF PARIS

The tour starts on the Left Bank in the Latin Quarter, passes through Île de la Cité and ends at the Louvre Museum.

The route is a little less than 3 kilometers (just under 2 miles).

If you'd like to enhance your experience, you might like to use our accompanying GPS-led audio tour , developed and narrated by one of our local tour guides, Andrew.

The audio tour is a more detailed version of the written information below. It costs just 2.99€ per download.

Here is a sample of the tour.

Click on the map to expand or to download it to your phone.

For directions between stops, use the map above or download a PDF version of this tour.

1. Place Saint-Michel

Place Saint-Michel is simple – a triangle between two streets, uniform buildings along both, designed by the same architect, a walk of smooth cobblestone.

The centerpiece is St. Michael defeating a devil; far above them are four statues symbolizing the four cardinal virtues of prudence, fortitude, temperance, and justice.

This monument came to be because of the 1848 Revolution and a cholera epidemic in Paris that followed it which killed thousands.

This idea of abstract concepts given human form had been popular during the Revolution, the big one, representing the kind of big virtues – like the Four Cardinal Virtues – that everyone could strive for, instead of a single human being whose actions and legacy would turn people against each other.

Simultaneous with the creation of Place Saint-Michel, Napoleon III’s renovation brought the Boulevard Saint-Michel into being, and that is the next part of the walk.

2. Boulevard Saint-Michel

The character of the street you’re on – wide-open space lined with trees and long, harmonious buildings, plus, often, a view of some landmark in the distance – was a central part of the renovation plan, or the Haussmann plan, as it’s also known.

Georges-Eugène Hausmann was a Paris technocrat. Aside from health reasons, he also made the case to the parliament that wide streets would help prevent so many revolutions in the future.

Many buildings along this road are fine examples of the French 2nd Empire style.

On the left side of the street, just after Boulinier, a used book store, you’ll see the ruins of ancient Roman-style baths.

This is a preview of the Cluny Museum, which you’ll see from the front soon.

3. The Sorbonne

The Sorbonne, or the University of Paris, has been here since 1150, making it the second oldest university in Europe.

It’s the place where some of the fundamentals of today’s education system – things like doctoral degrees – were first put into practice.

The Sorbonne helped put Paris, and the Latin Quarter, on the map. 

It’s hard to overstate how many big names are connected with this institution, then and since.

Among them are churchmen John Calvin and Thomas Aquinas, scientists Marie and Pierre Curie, writers Voltaire, Balzac, Jean-Paul Sartre, T.S. Eliot, Elie Wiesel, Susan Sontag and so many more.

4. Cluny Museum

This is the Cluny Museum, formerly the Cluny Mansion. The name comes from the Cluny monks to whom it belonged and they were named for the city where they were based.

In 1340, they obtained what was left of the thermal baths you saw earlier and built this structure beside them.

Today, it’s France’s National Museum of the Middle Ages. It’s more an art museum than a history museum, with excellent exhibits on tapestries and stained glass.

Apart from those, the museum also has early medieval art from before the Gothic era – the style called Romanesque – medieval work from the Islamic world and the Byzantine Empire, and some other late, near-Renaissance pieces from the era of the tapestries.

There are also some much older artifacts in that oldest part of the property, the Roman baths. 

It’s open every day but Tuesday from 9:15 am to 5:45 pm. Regular tickets are 5 Euros, sometimes more if there’s a special exhibit going on ( more info ).

However, it’s free for teenagers, EU citizens under 26, and, on the first Sunday of each month, for everyone. It’s also free with a Paris Museum Pass .

5. The Church of Saint-Severin

Pause here for a moment to take in the atmosphere of the medieval city.

Saint-Severin is a 13th-century church, and the Rue Saint-Severin, the road just past it, is from that same era.

Look down to the left and you can imagine the crowdedness of these roads, shared by carts. pedestrians and animals and whatever was thrown from upper windows.

And you can imagine how easy it would be to improvise a barricade across one of these streets if you wanted to.

6. Church of Saint-Julien-le-Pauve

The Church of Saint-Julien-le-Pauve, or St. Julian the Poor, began construction in the 12th century, around the same time as Notre-Dame, and steady changes since have made it a mash-up of styles.

But it started Romanesque, the early medieval style that preceded Gothic, and you can see the heaviness of that style, compared to which Gothic would have seemed so revolutionary.

While it was originally a Roman Catholic church, today it’s used by Melkite Greek Catholics, who are part of an Eastern Catholic community, based in the Middle East.

The square is called the Square Rene Viviani, mostly known for its view of Notre-Dame.

The grounds are littered with big pieces of limestone – in the 19th century when Notre-Dame was renovated and also contains a locust tree believed to be the oldest tree in Paris, about 400 years old.

7. Shakespeare and Company Bookstore

This is the second of two bookstores called Shakespeare and Company, the other stood just southwest of here, and both focused on English language books. 

An American named Sylvia Beach opened it, and as both a bookstore and a lending library, it came to be the haunt of writers and artists, including Gertrude Stein, Ernest Hemingway, and Pablo Picasso.

The bookstore provided more than just a place for future artistic celebrities to meet; it also stocked and eventually published books that were banned back home, including James Joyce’s novel Ulysses.

This Shakespeare and Company was founded by George Whitman, who offered lodging to writers in exchange for volunteer work, and if you step inside, you’ll see some of their beds.

8. Left Bank - Pont au Double

On the quays along the banks of the Seine, Shakespeare and Company has plenty of competition in the bookselling business: bouquinistes , the booksellers who set up shop in little stalls along the river. 

From around the bridge, you can get a few important views. First is the Seine itself. The name Seine comes from Sequana, the name of an ancient river goddess. 

The river is the reason for human interest in this site going back millennia, and the Île de la Cité offered a relatively easy crossing, as well as an opportunity to build low bridges and control traffic up and down the river. 

On the opposite side of the water from here is the Île de la Cité. From here you can see the big picture of the island. 

On the west end, to your left, is the Palais de la Justice, the former site of the royal palace and still home to parts of the French government. 

On the east side, to the right, has been religious turf for even longer – Notre-Dame has stood here since 1163.

Before, there was another Christian cathedral that was likely a Roman temple, and those were sometimes built on sacred sites that were older still. 

Nowadays, there’s not much on the island besides that; Haussmann eliminated most of the residences here.

9. Notre-Dame (Exterior)

This cathedral was started in the 1100s and enhanced with some of its flashiest elements over the next few centuries.

You can see one of those additions: the flying buttresses, those gracefully curved stone supports arrayed along the side of the building. 

The cathedral has 2 beautiful rose windows, both designed in the 13th century, but they were recreated in the 19th century, and they weren’t the only parts of the cathedral added so recently. 

The same is true of much of the stained glass, the spire (now destroyed by the fire), all the gargoyles, and the heads of statues on the western side. 

To help fund that restoration, Victor Hugo penned his novel Notre-Dame de Paris, known in English as The Hunchback of Notre-Dame . 

Looking at the cathedral from the front, you can see an overwhelming number of sculptures and reliefs.

For a time when most attendees were illiterate and didn’t understand the Latin language in which the sermons were given, the church façade itself was the illustrated version of the Bible. 

Over the main western doors, on what’s called the tympanum, is a relief of Judgement Day, with the separation of souls bound for eternal paradise or eternal torment. 

To the left, over the Portal of the Virgin, is a statue of Saint-Denis, who would have needed no introduction for most attendees.

He was beheaded by the Romans for the threat he posed to other religions. 

Now, he’s a patron saint of Paris and he’s also known across the Catholic world as someone to pray for relief from headaches.

In April 2019, a fire led to the collapse of much of the roof and a spire, plus collateral damage from impact, smoke, and water to much of the rest of the building and the artwork inside.

Hundreds of firefighters contained the disaster and kept it from doing more harm. 

The archaeological crypt under the parvis is now open and contains remains of the Roman city, plus models of what Notre-Dame looked like at the various phases of its life.

Tickets are 9€ or for free with a Paris Museum Pass .

Notre-Dame Cathedral's reopening is scheduled for December 8, 2024.

10. Rue de Lutece

Straight ahead, you can see the Palais de la Justice, the next stop.

To your right is the Marché aux Fleurs Reine Elizabeth II, a beautiful, 200-year-old outdoor flower and plant market, operating daily from 9:30 - 19:00 (7 pm).

Lutèce is the French variation of “Lutetia” the ancient Roman name for Paris. The full name was Lutetia Parisiorum – Lutetia of the Parisii. 

The Parisii were the tribe that lived in this area before the Roman conquest, and as you may have guessed, they give the city its modern name.

Though we refer to Roman in this tour, it is Gallo-Roman, to be exact.

The region’s population was the Gauls, a Celtic people, and while they were conquered by the Romans, local culture in the early centuries CE was a fusion of both. 

There’s a limited understanding of the geography of ancient life here – the ancient Gallic city was probably out west in today’s suburbs, and the Roman city, originally on the Left Bank, moved onto the island in the third century to be more easily defended. 

At the end of Rue de Lutèce is Boulevard du Palais, with the massive palace complex on the opposite side of the street.

11. Palais De Justice and Sainte-Chapelle

Altogether, what you see here is the Palais de la Cité. The site has served state functions as far back as being the home of Roman governors in the early years CE.

As for French kings, it was the royal palace until the 14th century, when it moved to various locations across the Seine on the Right Bank, including the Louvre. 

From here you can see Sainte-Chapelle or the Sacred Chapel, easily identified by the tall steeple on the left side of the complex.

As for going inside Sainte-Chapelle, the wait can be long, but you’ll see some of the world’s most impressive stained glass. 

The upper chapel, up a narrow spiral staircase from the entrance and once only accessible by the king and his family, is surrounded by windows, and comprehensive cleaning and restoration completed in 2014 have them in ideal form. 

The lower chapel, the portion originally made for the general population of the palace, has a highly decorated Gothic vaulted ceiling. 

Sainte-Chapelle 's hours are:

• April 1st to September 30th, 9:00 - 19:00 (7 pm)
• October 1st to March 31, 9:00 - 17:00 (5 pm)

Tickets are 13€ per person over 18 years of age; under 18 years old have free admission.

You can also be admitted for free with a Paris Museum Pass .

You can also get a combination ticket with our next stop, La Conciergerie, for 20€, but it’s only available from the La Conciergerie ticket desk; you won’t find it online.

12. La Conciergerie

La Conciergerie is famous as the last residence of Queen Marie Antoinette before she was executed early in the French Revolution. It was also a prison before and after her time. 

La Conciergerie

The royal palace had moved to new locations across the Seine in the 14th century. But some state functions stayed behind here, including part of the French court system. 

In the absence of the king himself, the place was run by a surrogate – a concierge – giving this building its name.

While the Revolution began with the liberation of a prison, the Bastille, it soon took over the palace and found uses for everything there. 

Sainte-Chapelle became storage, the space where the parliament of nobles met became the home of the assembly and the Revolutionary Tribunal, and the prison became... the prison. 

The royalty and their supporters, and eventually all kinds of perceived enemies, were imprisoned, tried, and executed, close to 3,000 of them in this building alone.

The Cell of Marie-Antoinette

In terms of the interior, La Conciergerie is a stark, simple building compared to Sainte-Chapelle, although still majestically Gothic.

Some spaces are set up as they would have looked during the Revolution, including the cell of Marie-Antoinette, which is now a chapel dedicated to her.

Hours : 

• 9:30 - 18:00 (6 pm). Last entry at 17:30 (5:30 pm)
• Early closure on December 24 and January 1 at 17:00 (5 pm)

Lastly, you can purchase a combination ticket that includes La Conciergerie and Sainte-Chapelle for 20€, available from the La Conciergerie ticket desk; you won’t find it online.

There are guided tours (at an additional cost) every day at 11:00 and 15:00 (3 pm) and virtual reality 'histo-pads' available for rental at a modest price. 

At the end of the block, on the corner of the palace, is the first of the palace’s four towers, Tour de l’Horloge.

13. Tour de L'Horloge

Tour de l’Horloge means clock tower, and the clock is hard to miss!

This was the first public clock in Paris, installed in the 14th century, although the decorated face you see now came along a couple of hundred years later and has been restored a few times since. 

The figures on either side are personifications of law and justice – you may be able to see the plaque on the left and the scales on the right. 

The clock face is covered by a small roof.

If you have especially sharp eyes and you look straight up at the underside of that roof, you can see a repeating pattern of intertwined letters: sometimes H and C, for King Henri II and his queen, Catherine de Medici, and sometimes H and M, for King Henri IV and his queen, Marguerite de Valois.

14-15. Place Dauphine

Place Dauphine is another city square, a triangle really; the rows of buildings that border it on the north and south sides slowly converge, leading to the edge of the island. 

Make your way gradually through to that point.

King Henri IV had a son, who would eventually become King Louis XIII, but until he took the throne, he was the Dauphin, or the crown prince. 

Dauphin also means dolphin; a couple of them are featured on the French coat of arms. 

Anyway, during his son’s boyhood, Henri IV converted a private palace garden into a public square and called it Place Dauphine, or Crown Prince Square. 

The buildings have mostly been redone since then; you can get a feel for the original square at the other end, the last buildings where the two sides converge to frame a statue of Henri IV.

16. Pont Neuf

The space where Henri stands is called the Square du Vert Galant, and it’s a relatively new piece of land.

River islands like Île de la Cité naturally build up this way on their downstream side. 

The New Bridge, when it was new at the start of the 1600s, just touched the tip of the island. 

Today, Pont Neuf is the oldest bridge still running across the Seine, and the others have followed its lead.

This one was specifically designed not to have houses on it, so as to offer a view of the Louvre, which is where we’re going next.

17. Quai du Louvre

First, the sights on the Left Bank. 

Directly across the Pont Neuf you can see the Monnaie de Paris, France’s mint, operating for more than a millennium and still producing Euros today.

The building includes a museum on the history of the institution itself and on other money-related matters.

Next to it, you’ll see a wide building with a dome in the middle, the Institut de France.

Founded as a school, this is the home to intellectual institutions like the Académie Française. 

The Academy does many things, including giving life-changing monetary prizes to artists, but it’s best known for promoting a stiff view of what constitutes correct French. 

Crossing the river in front of the Institut de France is another bridge, the Pont des Arts or Bridge of the Arts, named to match with the Louvre, the Palais des Arts or Palace of the Arts.

It’s a pedestrian-only metal bridge commissioned by Napoleon, and the view it offers makes it a popular spot for artists or just souvenir photographers.

There’s a tradition – purely touristic – of attaching locks to the bridge; you’ll endear yourself to Parisians if you decide not to do this.

18. Louvre Museum and Tuileries Gardens

The Louvre used to be a royal palace, and it’s easy to tell. (See our in-depth post on how to visit the Louvre Museum ).

The Louvre remained private after the royalty moved out, and it housed a private collection of art until the Revolution, at which point, in 1793, it was opened to the public.

The open space to the west of the Louvre, centered on a large sculpted hedge, is the Place du Carrousel, and it used to be the location of another royal palace – the Tuileries Palace, destroyed in the late 19th century.

It left behind the arch opposite the Louvre – the Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel, built to celebrate the military victories of Napoleon and to welcome arrivals to that palace. 

Beyond it are a couple of stairways, leading down into the former location of the moat, which contains some sculptures from the old palace. 

And beyond that is the Tuileries Gardens. At one time an exclusive royal garden, this too became public during the Revolution, and it’s another option for the next part of your adventure.

The gardens have a lot to see – it’s a sculpture garden with about 200 pieces, including several by famous French sculptor Auguste Rodin.

The gardens are bigger than the Louvre, so you could easily find yourself walking further in this park than you have through this entire tour so far!

Luckily, there are a couple of cafes around the middle if you need somewhere to rest.

It’s free to enter the gardens and is open every day, with hours changing seasonally.

• January through December 7:30 - 19:30 (7:30 pm)
• June, July and August 7:00 - 23:00 (11:00 pm)
• April, May and September 7:00 - 21:00 (9:00 pm)

At the far end of the gardens is the Jeu de Paume , a contemporary art museum and L'Orangerie museum dedicated to impressionist and post-impressionist paintings.

This magnicient museum is a must-visit in Paris. It's open 9:00 - 18:00 (6 pm) daily, except Tuesdays. Tickets are 12,50€ or free with a Paris Museum Pass .

Beyond these museums are Place de la Concorde and the Champs Élysées, included in our self-guided tour of Paris' Right Bank !

For more ideas in Paris, including things to do in the Latin Quarter, Marais, and Montmartre , check out our website, linked in the notes.

And look for our articles and audio tours about lots of other cities - you’ll find links in the notes for those, too. 

Choose a Destination... I want them all PLUS general travel tips. Amsterdam Berlin Boston Charleston Chicago Dubai Lisbon London Los Angeles Miami Nashville New York City New Orleans Paris Philadelphia Prague Rome San Francisco Washington DC

About The Author

North America

United kingdom & ireland, middle east & india, asia & oceania.

Next stop on the Ontario Euro road trip: Paris

Come for the name, stay for the cobblestone.

Social Sharing

Paris is a town on the Grand River that charms visitors instantly with its tempting downtown full of shops and restaurants. But it doesn't exactly feel like France. So why the name?

"Paris gets its name from the large gypsum deposits that are located on the bank of the Grand River. Gypsum is used to make plaster of Paris, which Paris gets its name from," said Brandon Webb, an economic development officer with the County of Brant, the municipality Paris is part of. 

So Paris, Ontario is named after the plaster that's named after Paris, France?

"Something like that, yeah" Webb said. 

Good enough for us. CBC London is spending the summer visiting southwestern Ontario cities, towns and villages named after bigger cities in Europe. We're calling it the Great Ontario Euro Road Trip . 

A cobblestone monopoly

Paris has a vibe, but being a cute town on the river doesn't make it unique. Cobblestone does. Across the country, there are only 15 cobblestone homes in Canada, Webb said, and 12 are in Paris. The town also has two cobblestone churches.

"Because of the location on the Grand River, those stones were washed and smoothed through time," Webb said. 

A stone mason named Levi Boughton moved to Paris in the 1830s, and built most of the cobblestone houses that are still standing today. 

"They're awesome to see," Webb said. 

Modern Paris

These days, Paris is a place that balances its agricultural history with art and culture and style. As far as Webb is concerned, it's the perfect place to stop on a road trip. 

"You can pop in for a coffee, or a late brunch. There's an amazing cobblestone walking tour. If you're into outdoor adventure, there's a great trail network. And it's super close to London," he said. 

Related Stories

• Want a Euro road trip this summer? Join us on this Ontario adventure

6 Best Free Walking Tours in Paris

S o, you want to know about free walking tours in Paris? It’s pretty cool actually. Imagine strolling through the city with someone who knows all the best stories and secret spots. That’s what these tours are like!

You get to walk around different parts of Paris, and your guide tells you all about the amazing things that happened there. Maybe you’ll learn about famous artists who lived nearby or hear about wild events from long ago.

The best part? You see stuff you might totally miss on your own. Like, there could be a super old building hiding behind a new one, or a cute little café where famous writers used to hang out.

Whether you’re into art, history, or just want to see the coolest parts of Paris, there’s probably a tour that’s perfect for you. It’s way more fun than just reading about the city in a book. Plus, you get some exercise while you’re at it!

Paris Walking Tours

Montmartre walking tour.

➤ Duration:  2h and 15min |  Languages:  English, Spanish

Once a quiet village on the slopes of the Martyrs’ Mountain, Montmartre has been transformed into the world’s art capital. It attracts a diverse crowd of bohemian artists, writers, and free spirits:

• Famous residents included Monet, Renoir, Van Gogh, Picasso, Matisse, Degas, and Toulouse-Lautrec.
• These artists immersed themselves in literature, philosophy, painting, and often indulged in the wilder side of life.
• The area became notorious for its scandals, embracing both creative genius and hedonistic pursuits.

Make a reservation for the Montmartre Walkin g Tour

Crowning the hill is the majestic Sacré-Coeur Basilica, its famous white domes are visible from throughout Paris.

➤ Tour Highlights

• Moulin Rouge
• Cafe deux moulins (Cafe known from the film “Amelie”)
• Van Gogh’s house
• Moulin d’ la Galette
• Place des Abbesses
• Studios Picasso/Modigliani
• Vineyard/Oldest Cabaret in Paris
• Sacré Coeur Basilica 

Tour of Montmartre, Artistic and Bohemian Paris

➤ Duration:  2h and 30min | Languages:  English, Spanish

Walk through the cobblestone streets that wind uphill to reveal charming Parisienne cafés and colorful facades.

Make a reservation for the Tour of Montmartre – Artistic Bohemian

• Former Apartment of Vincent Van Gogh
• Place de Dalida
• Au Lapin Agile
• La Maison Rose
• Place du Tertre
• Sacré Cœur Basilica 

Essential Paris City Center Tour

➤ Duration : 2h and 15min | Languages:  English

On this tour, you’ll discover the essence of Paris through this curated journey of iconic landmarks and hidden gems.

Make a reservation for the Essential Paris City Center Tour

• Notre-Dame Cathedral
• Saint-Michel Fountain
• Pont St. Michel
• Ile de la Cité
• World War II
• Place Dauphine
• Henry IV Equestrian Statue
• Cour Carré (Louvre)
• Louvre Museum and Pyramids
• Views and stories of the Eiffel Tower
• Finishing at the beautiful Tuileries Gardens

Historic Paris Walking Tour

➤ Duration:  2h and 15min | Languages:  English, Spanish, French

You’ll see Gothic spires of Notre-Dame pierce the sky, while the Seine flows silently as you pass by the elegant Haussmann facades that line grand boulevards.

Make a reservation for the Historic Paris Walking Tour

• Hotel de Ville(Paris City Hall)
• Sainte Chapelle
• Conciergerie
• Pont des Arts
• Louvre (history of the palace and museum)
• Carrousel Arch
• Tuileries gardens

Know Before You Go

Montmartre is perched atop the highest hill in Paris. Thus, it’s important to note that its charm comes with some challenges:

• The area is not wheelchair friendly due to its steep inclines, numerous stairs, and iconic cobblestone streets.
• While navigating with a stroller is possible, it can be quite demanding, especially when tackling the stairs and uneven surfaces.

Find more free walking tours in Paris

How Free Walking Tours Work

“Free” walking tours are very popular and can fill quickly. However, it’s important to keep in mind that tour guides make most of their money from tour participants.

With the walking tour you:

• Are free to book and join
• Pay what you want at the end
• Should compensate the guide. Common offers range from €10 (about $10 USD) to €45 ($50 USD) per person
• Can decide how much to pay based on your experience and how valuable the tour was to you

The tours aren’t actually free. While there’s no upfront cost, participants are expected to pay at the end based on how they value the tour experience.

The term free means freedom to choose your payment, not free of charge. This system allows you to decide how much the tour was worth to you after completing it.

Booking is required for organization, but it’s free and simple. Book your walking tour in Paris now if you’re interested.

After your tour, relax and dine with a view of the Eiffel Tower !

Safe travel!