Things to Do in Westport, Ontario: Ultimate Lakeside Weekend Guide

If you are hunting for Westport Ontario things to do, this guide covers my favourite spots for views, food, shopping, and easy weekend stays.

Westport is one of those Ontario small towns that honestly doesn’t get enough attention. Truth be told, I hesitate to share it because it’s such a gem I’d rather keep it to myself. Sitting on Upper Rideau Lake and wrapped in rolling hills, the village has real presence. Little streets, big views, and an easy pace. Whether you’re docking your boat, road tripping through the Rideau Lakes, or planning a weekend getaway, Westport has the perfect mix of food, shopping, and scenery to make you want to linger.

How to Get to Westport

From Ottawa: Take Highway 416 south to Kemptville, then follow County Road 43 west toward Smiths Falls. From there, take County Road 42 to Westport. The drive takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes.

From Toronto: Head east on Highway 401 to Kingston, then take Division Street north (County Road 10) to Westport Road. The drive is about 3.5 to 4 hours.

From Montreal: Take Autoroute 40 west to Highway 401 west. Exit at Brockville for Highway 29 north, continue through Smiths Falls, and follow County Road 42 into Westport. Total drive time is around 3.5 hours.

From Kingston: Take Division Street north (County Road 10) to Westport Road. The drive is about 50 minutes, making Westport an easy day trip.

No matter which way you’re arriving, you’ll end up in a lakeside village where you can park the car and forget about it while you wander on foot.

Before you set off, here’s an interactive map of the best things to do in Westport, Ontario. I’ve pinned my favourite spots for food, wine, shopping, photo ops, and places to stay. Use it to plan your route, zoom in for details, and make the most of your visit.

Best Westport Ontario Things to Do

Stroll the Shops in Downtown Westport

Westport’s main streets are made for wandering. You’ll find boutiques with fashion, gifts, home décor, and artisan goods. It’s the kind of town where you stumble on treasures you didn’t know you needed, and the shop windows feel like part of the show.

Life is Good
This store just makes me happy. Feel-good apparel and accessories including graphic tees and sweatshirts, hats, socks, mugs, stickers, keychains, and dog gear. Be sure to say hi to owner Cynthia, who is, as you might expect in such a store, a ray of sunshine.

Pinecone Westport
Calm, curated and seasonal home goods: cozy textiles and throws, candles, pottery, serveware, linens, and beautiful greeting cards.

Village Green
Bigger than it looks from the street. Browse clothing, shoes, kitchenware, books, toys, seasonal décor, and housewares across multiple rooms.

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Westport Museum (Rideau District Museum)

Small, local, and full of charm. Pop in for stories about the Rideau Canal era, village life, and how this tiny spot on the lake grew into a busy little hub. It’s the kind of museum that makes you feel connected to the place you’re visiting.

Sand Lake Beach

A simple public beach that hits the spot on a warm day. Pack a towel, grab a coffee in town, and go for a dip or a lazy shoreline lounge. Perfect if you’re visiting with friends and want a low-key afternoon.lingering over. Grab a glass, find a seat with a view, and soak up a true small-town vineyard experience.

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Explore Foley Mountain Conservation Area

The star of the show is Spy Rock Lookout, where you get the kind of panoramic view that makes you stop in your tracks. The village, the lake, the trees — it’s a picture-perfect moment. The trails here range from easy strolls to more rugged hikes, and it’s worth packing your camera.

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Browse the Westport Farmers’ Market

From May through October, the Westport Farmers’ Market fills the village with local flavours and handmade goods. Think fresh produce, baked treats, preserves, and crafts — all with that community feel small towns do best.

Where to Eat in Westport

Scheuermann Vineyard & Winery
Wood-fired pizza, small-lot wines, and a view that makes you forget your phone. I like to order a pizza to share, then linger with a glass while the sun drops behind the vines. It’s casual, pretty, and very Westport.

Vanilla Bean’s Cafe & Creamery
Turnovers that flake in all the right ways, solid coffee, and seasonal treats. It’s a sweet stop for breakfast-on-the-go or an afternoon pick-me-up while you wander downtown.

Westport Brewing Company
House-made beer, easygoing food, and a patio that hits just right on a sunny day. Order a flight if you can’t decide and settle in for people-watching near the harbour.

Forno Sourdough Pizza + Bakery
Go early. Their sourdough cinnamon buns are comically large and absolutely delicious. You’ll also find excellent coffee, breads, and slices, but the buns are the move. Grab one for the road or pack it for a post-hike treat at Spy Rock.

Tangled Garden Café
A local favourite for soups, sandwiches, and baked goods. It’s simple, fresh, and perfect for a quick lunch before heading to Foley Mountain.

Rosie Yumski’s Fine Foods
Not a sit-down spot, but a great place to build a picnic. Pick up cheeses, charcuterie, crackers, and local goodies, then make your way to the waterfront.

Where to Stay in Westport

The Cove Inn
Westport’s historic heart with lakeside dining, live music, and comfy rooms. I love it the vibe here. This will 100% be part of a future Girl Trips getaway.

Le Boat
I’m starting to wonder if Le Boat offers frequent cruiser miles because it’s become a big part of my travel repertoire. I’ve cruised with besties, new girlfriends, and even my parents and dogs. It’s my favourite way to explore small-town Canada. Cruise in for the weekend, tie up in Westport, and step right into town.

Cottages & B&Bs
From cozy cabins to lakefront rentals, there are plenty of sweet stays for a weekend away. Book early in summer and fall since this little village fills up fast.

Westport, Ontario: Visitor FAQ