A Trail Town Along the Trent-Severn Waterway
National Historic Site of Canada
Lindsay
Welcome to Lindsay
One-of-a-kind experiences
Boasting one of Canada’s widest main streets (said to be the turning radius of a four-horse carriage), Lindsay’s Downtown is a stone’s throw from the Scugog River along the Trent-Severn Waterway, and is the hub of
the City of Kawartha Lakes. With dozens of boutique shops, dining options for every taste, and a wide array of entertainment options, Lindsay is the perfect place for a stroll while on your travels.
You’ll find that Downtown Lindsay is the perfect combination of modern and historical, eclectic and traditional, and above all, a place that cherishes its local community, while welcoming visitors with open arms.
Discover Lindsay
Strolling Around Town
Lindsay makes strolling beside the Trent-Severn Waterway especially pleasant with a beautifully maintained trail that passes right by Lock 33 and historic Old Mill Park. Just outside town is beautiful Ken Reid Conservation Area, among other great options.
Modern Shopping with a Classic Look
Downtown Kent St. is one of the widest streets in Ontario. That means there's plenty of room for an eclectic array of charming shops and restaurants - see what's happening downtown.
Local Never Tasted So Good
A strong commitment to local food and drink keeps the Lindsay scene lively. Try craft brews from Pie Eyed Monk, or dine on delectable Italian-style cuisine at Gusto Grande. See more restaurant listings here.
Fresh Air and Country Roads
Cyclists can take their pick of routes from a generous list of choices around Kawartha Lakes. Take the Victoria Rail Trail north to fellow Trail Town Fenelon Falls, tackle the challenging Emily Route, or take a scenic pedal along the Farm Country Route.
Discover the Best of Kawartha Lakes
The Lindsay Farmers' Market boasts over 35 vendors, selling everything from fresh Ontario produce to handmade jewelry. See what one of the province's longest-running markets has to offer.
Explore Further
From the venerable Academy Theatre to the Lindsay Drive-In, from the Kawartha Art Gallery to Olde Gaol Museum, there's more to see and do in Lindsay. Visit ExploreKawarthaLakes.com for more.
Lindsay Community History
In 1827, the Purdy family built a dam on the Scugog River at the site of present-day Lindsay, followed by a saw mill, then a grist mill and was known as Purdy’s Mills. In 1834, surveyor John Huston plotted the designated town site. During the survey, one of Huston’s assistants, Mr. Lindsay passed away and his name and death were recorded on the surveyor’s plan. The name Lindsay remained as the name of the town.
The arrival of the Port Hope Railway in 1857 saw a period of rapid development and industrial growth, and the town became fully incorporated. It was the home to Sir Samuel Hughes, the Canadian Minister of Militia during the First World War; and Leslie Frost, 16th Premier of Ontario, also made his home here.
In 2001 Lindsay’s town government was officially dissolved and merged with Victoria County into the new City of Kawartha Lakes.
Trail Town Friendly Business Directory
Festivals and Events around Lindsay to watch for...
Downtown Farmers Market (May to October)
The Lindsay Farmer’s Market is one of the longest running markets in Ontario. The market was established in 1859. Every Saturday morning, local in- season farm fresh produce and a wide variety of products including maple syrup, jams & jellies, home baking, crafts and fair trade organic coffee etc. Victoria Avenue North @ Kent Street West.
Classics on Kent (July)
One of Central Ontario’s biggest classic car shows! Every July, Lindsay’s Historic Downtown features beautiful vintage cars, great music, prizes, a huge variety of vendors, and food and drink. Kent Street West from Lindsay Street to Sussex Street.
Lindsay Central Exhibition (September)
One of Ontario’s most famous fall fairs for over 160 years! Featuring dairy and beef cattle, light and heavy horses, market livestock shows, Truck Pulls, Tractor Pulls and the Demolition Derbies to name a few. Angeline Street South @ Highway 7.
Downtown Lindsay Holiday Kickoff (November)
Featuring the lighting of the enormous Christmas tree on Friday night, marking the start of the holiday season downtown! Great music, live performances, refreshments, and a huge shopping event! Sunday afternoon is the annual Santa Claus Parade! Kent Street West from Lindsay Street to Victoria Avenue.
For more information visit
