Welcome to the River District 

Thank you for including the River District in your travel plans. The best way to experience the River District is to explore without a plan. Wander the alleyways and discover your own path. You’ll find yourself in some of the most unique and beautiful places Owen Sound has to offer. Take advantage of the plethora of free parking from the 2-hour free street parking perfect for a quick trip or the 5-hour parking in one of our many lots. The River District is at the heart of the city so getting here could not be easier. 

How to spend the day

Wake up early on a Saturday and navigate to the Farmers’ Market Located at 1st Avenue and 8th Street East. Shop the many artisans and bring a cooler for your purchases if plan to stay and allow yourself time to wander the River District. 

We suggest you go into as many shops as possible because you will find something you didn’t even know you needed and maybe even find your new favourite store. Mid-morning give yourself an energy boost by getting a fresh smoothy or a coffee and scone to get you through to lunch, the River District boasts several locations to get that mid-morning pick me up. Continue in and out of the shops and come along a gallery or two without even knowing it. Suddenly you are taken away into a world of artistic wonder exploring all sorts of media from paintings to local pottery and woodworking. Don’t forget to take a selfie at one of the mural locations! 

As lunch rolls around you’ll have to decide which cuisine to choose from, as you’ll want to experience the many the River District offers. Perhaps you need to take food sensitivities into account, the River District offers many restaurants that cater to anyone who eats vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and just about anything else. Enjoy your lunch seated in the restaurant or take it to go and sit by the beautiful Sydenham River under a shady tree. 

Midafternoon it’s time for another break, this time you could indulge in a smooth and creamy cappuccino and biscotti or partake in a glass of wine as you watch the world go by on one of the many well-appointed patios. Continue on your way, you’ll soon discover there is something for everyone as your afternoon comes to a close stay in the River District! Take advantage of the many restaurants for dining as you wait for a performance to start at several musical venues or our historic live theatre. 

We’re excited to have you visit us and we’re certain this won’t be your last.