The Best reasons to visit Perth County

Autumn in Perth County: Your Perfect Getaway

When I first considered writing about our Perth County road trip, I had no idea where this tale would lead. But as I sifted through our memories, one thing became crystal clear: community and food were the beating heart of our adventure. And why not? Autumn is all about the harvest, and Mother Nature’s pantry is bursting at the seams.

Perth County isn’t just scenic; it’s a treasure trove of experiences. From the vibrant farmers’ markets overflowing with fresh produce to the cozy local eateries serving seasonal delights, every moment in Perth County was a feast for the senses.

Get ready to join in the celebration of autumn’s bounty, where every corner holds a new delight and every meal tastes like a little piece of heaven.

 

Our Stay in Perth County: An Autumn Getaway

A Warm Welcome at River Valley

Our autumn adventure kicked off with a cozy two-night stay at the River Valley Golf and Snow Tubing Resort in South Perth County. This resort features a stunning 18-hole golf course, which was ablaze with the vibrant colours of fall. Golf and hockey enthusiasts alike will appreciate this gem, owned by retired NHL hockey player Walter Tkaczuk, his daughter Sarah, and their family. The lush greens and rolling hills along the Thames River provided the perfect backdrop for our weekend escape.

Culinary Delights with Chef Paul

Our taste buds were in for a treat, too! Chef Paul at the resort’s restaurant served up delectable meals that made our stay even more special. On our first night, we arrived just in time for wing night and were greeted with mouthwatering chicken wings and exceptional Pad Thai. The next evening, we savoured fresh fish and chips, perfectly fried in a herbed batter that was both flavorful and crispy. Each meal was a culinary delight that left us eager for more.

Rustic and Cozy Accommodations

Our accommodations at the guest house were nothing short of perfect. The spacious, rustic setting, nestled among the trees, offered a cozy atmosphere. Waking up to the sound of chirping birds added a tranquil touch to our stay, making it a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

If you’re looking for an autumn getaway filled with scenic beauty, delicious food, and serene accommodations, Perth County is the place to be. 🍁✨

Ready to pack your bags?

Perth County has some of the best golf courses in Ontario – perfect for a golfer’s getaway. 

Upon arrival, a lovely welcome gift from Perth County Tourism was waiting for us in our room. This gift basket included many local cheeses, preserves, fresh fruit, treats, and beer from many producers in Perth County. What a lovely welcome, and it made our stay more enjoyable.

 

Day 1 in Perth County

A Delectable Start to Our Day in Perth County

Our autumn escapade kicked off with a mouthwatering breakfast at Dave’s Diner in Sebringville. This charming little eatery is famed for its fresh ingredients and perfectly seasoned dishes that make every bite a delight. It’s no wonder Dave’s Diner is hailed as one of the top spots for breakfast in the area.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we were ready to embark on our Perth County adventure, eager to uncover all the hidden gems and vibrant experiences this beautiful region has to offer. 🍁✨

Let the journey begin!

Autumn in Perth County: Rediscovering Listowel

A Nostalgic Journey to Listowel

My mother was a passionate knitter and crafter. She often invited me on two- to three-hour drives to Listowel to visit the Spinrite Yarn Factory Outlet. She loved stocking up on bags of yarn, especially during their annual tent sale. It’s been years since my last visit, and I was amazed at how much Listowel has evolved since those memorable day trips with my mum.

The Charm of Downtown Listowel

Listowel’s downtown area has blossomed into a vibrant hub filled with fantastic shops, restaurants, and bakeries. Its charm and beauty perfectly capture the essence of what makes visiting small towns in Ontario so special.

Shopping Adventures in Listowel

You could easily spend an entire day exploring Listowel’s unique shops and stores. We had a blast shopping at BK’s Brand Name & Knapp’s Shoes, where we found some amazing deals. At The Kitchen Cupboard & Icebox and deli, we picked up great kitchenware and unique gifts for friends (shhh, it’s a secret). The friendly ladies working there made our visit even more enjoyable with their warm and welcoming conversation.

Exploring Listowel Florist Gifts & Antiques

Our adventure continued as we delved into the nooks and crannies of Listowel Florist Gifts & Antiques. This charming shop is a treasure trove of rustic farmhouse-style items for your home, including décor, signs, DIY projects, birdhouses, artwork, and more. It’s so much more than just a flower shop.

In all, Listowel offers an enchanting blend of nostalgia and modern charm. Whether you’re here for the yarn or the unique finds, every corner has a story waiting to be discovered.

The Sweetest Spots in Listowel

No Roguetrippers’ adventure would be complete without indulging in some divine baked goods. Perth County boasts some of Ontario’s finest, and our taste buds were in for a treat!

During our visit to Impressions Bakery and Cafe, the café and storefront were still a week away from opening. However, the magic was already happening through the back entrance of the bakery. Graham and his team were hard at work, crafting fresh-baked pies and treats to satisfy the Thanksgiving weekend rush. The aroma wafting through the bakery was nothing short of heavenly. We couldn’t resist taking home a delightful assortment of goodies to enjoy on our road trip, including, of course, some butter tarts for our quest.

Follow their Instagram for a sneak peek at their delectable creations. Trust us—it will have you hopping in the car for a sweet escape to Listowel, arguably the sweetest town in Ontario.

Check out our Feature article on a Sweet DayTrip to Listowel

Life’s a Party is a catering and party-planning company serving a wide assortment of gorgeous treats. This fantastic bakery in Perth County makes decadent squares, gourmet hand pies, pretty cakes, and fancy (and seasonal) decorated cookies. If you can’t decide what to get, ask for an assortment platter.

 

Make time for Goats

Driving through Perth County, we stumbled upon Goats on 86 in North Perth. It’s hard to resist the charm of a group of lively goats (and other adorable farm animals). Naturally, we couldn’t pass up the chance to stop, play with, feed, and watch them frolic in their paddock. Their playful antics and joyful demeanour added a heartwarming touch to our autumn adventure.

Don’t miss out on this delightful pitstop—it’s sure to bring a smile to your face! 🐐

 

Discovering Millbank: A Cheese Lover’s Paradise

Millbank Cheese

No trip to Perth County is complete without a visit to Millbank Cheese, famed for its delectable locally-made cheeses. If you’re a poutine enthusiast, this is your one-stop shop for top-notch cheese curds. We couldn’t resist grabbing a couple of bags to snack on, and let me tell you, the dill and garlic flavours were a game-changer!

Zehr’s Country Market

Just a stone’s throw away, Zehr’s Country Market awaits with everything you need to whip up a feast. Whether it’s for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or even a casual Wednesday night dinner, this market has you covered. Fresh farm produce, high-quality meats and cheeses, preserves, and more fill the aisles. Don’t miss the spice nook, brimming with a vast selection of spices to elevate the flavours of your meals and baked goods. It’s truly one of the best local farmers’ markets in Ontario.

Ready to savour the delights of Millbank and Zehr’s Country Market?

 

A Thanksgiving Feast at Anna Mae’s Bakery and Restaurant

A Memorable Lunch Experience

Our autumn getaway in Perth County wouldn’t be complete without a stop at Anna Mae’s Bakery and Restaurant. This cozy spot is famous for its buggy seat—a highlight for diners and a coveted spot we were lucky to score. Anna Mae’s serves up delicious meals made in the tradition of their Mennonite heritage, with home cooking that’s fresh, local, and downright delicious. Their rotating meat schedule is worth checking out so you can plan your visit around your favourite dishes. Since it was Thanksgiving weekend, we indulged in a classic turkey dinner followed by pumpkin pie. The service and food quality were outstanding, making us feel like we were dining with family.

A Perth County Favourite

Anna Mae’s is undoubtedly one of the best restaurants in Perth County and a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The warm and welcoming atmosphere adds to the charm, making every visit special.

A Pumpkin Pie Revelation

I must confess—I’ve never been a fan of pumpkin pie. Ever. Despite countless reassurances from friends insisting, “You just haven’t had good pumpkin pie,” I remained unconvinced. That is, until I tried Anna Mae’s pumpkin pie. It was a game-changer. I now not only appreciate pumpkin pie but absolutely love it. To all those who said I hadn’t tasted a good one, you were right—until now. Anna Mae’s Bakery and Restaurant creates some of the best pies in Perth County, making it well worth the trip just for dessert.

Ready to savour the flavours of Anna Mae’s? Trust us, it’s a feast you won’t want to miss!

Exploring Perth County’s Bountiful Farmer’s Markets

A Harvest Road Trip Adventure

No Autumn Harvest road trip is complete without stopping by local farms and farmers’ markets for those perfect pumpkins, gourds, and other festive décor items. Perth County, with its rural charm, is dotted with some of Ontario’s best farm stores, stands, and markets.

Cedar Crest Acres

One of the highlights of our journey was Cedar Crest Acres, a picturesque spot where we found our ideal pumpkin. The vibrant colours and friendly atmosphere made it a delightful stop.

Lynn River Farm

Our adventure continued at Lynn River Farm, where we met Lindsay and her dedicated team. They were in full swing, preparing an incredible variety of Thanksgiving dishes, quiches (which were absolutely delicious), pies, and other delectable meals. The farm also boasts a stunning display of farm-fresh produce, preserves, and baked goods.

 

Both Cedar Crest Acres and Lynn River Farm are located in Perth County East and can be found on the FarmGate map. These stops added a heartwarming touch to our autumn getaway and showcased the true essence of harvest time in Perth County.

Are you ready to explore the bounty of Perth County this autumn?

 

Day 2 in Perth County

Fall Harvest Festival at McCully’s Hill Farm: An Autumn Adventure

The Fall Harvest Festival at McCully’s Hill Farm is an absolute blast! This annual event is packed with fun-filled activities designed to give visitors a taste of farming life and some serious AGri-culture. We had the pleasure of meeting Dennis and his wonderful family, who gave us a fascinating history of the farm and shared what they’re all about. We explored the farm, had a blast playing with the goats, and visited other farm animals.

One of the highlights was the wagon ride through the farm, including a trip through the sugar bush, where they make their delicious maple syrup. This experience alone gave us a great reason to return in the spring!

Then came the corn maze. This was our first time navigating one, and let me tell you, it was no easy feat. What we thought would be a breeze turned out to be an exciting and challenging adventure. You can check out our Perth County Insta-stories for some fun videos of our corn maze escapade.

Dennis and his team were amazing hosts, and we loved chatting with them about McCully’s Hill Farm. The farm offers a delightful variety of preserves, maple syrup, baked goods, fresh produce, and locally produced meats.

Ready to experience the magic of autumn at McCully’s Hill Farm? It’s a must-visit!

 

Discovering the Town of Shakespeare: An Autumn Delight

Shakespeare’s Hidden Treasures

The Town of Shakespeare is a familiar spot for us, often passing through on our way to Stratford for the renowned Stratford Festival. Each visit to Shakespeare feels like a mini adventure, with local businesses like Shakespeare Pies always on our list. Their pies and butter tarts are some of the best in Ontario, and we never leave town without a few treats in hand.

Oktoberfest at Shakespeare Brewing Company

Our latest trip had us heading straight to Shakespeare Brewing Company, just in time for their Oktoberfest event. The highlight? The launch of their newest beer—The Marzen, a classic Oktoberfest brew. Shakespeare Brewing Co. is a charming, family-run business offering a delightful selection of craft beers. We sampled several, but the Marzen, Pumpkin, and Blueberry Whit quickly became our favourites.

Culinary Delights from The Tin House

Adding to the festive atmosphere, the Tin House food truck was on-site, serving delicious eats. We indulged in Reuben Poutine, Oktoberfest pretzels, and a chicken burger, each dish perfectly paired with the new beer. It was a feast for our taste buds and our souls.

Shakespeare may be a small town, but it’s brimming with charm, flavour, and a sense of community that’s hard to beat. Plan your visit and experience the magic of autumn in Shakespeare!

 

The Best of Shakespeare: Must-Visit Spots on Your Autumn Getaway

Appleflats

First up on our frequent stops is Appleflats—a delightful spot known for its crab-apple creations. From cocktail mixers to crab-apple jelly, their products are all made with crab apples grown in their own orchards. Plus, their store stocks an array of goodies from other local producers, making it a treasure trove of local flavours.

The Best Little Pork Shoppe

Next, we have The Best Little Pork Shoppe, a must-visit for quality pork products—both fresh and frozen. But don’t let the name fool you; this shop offers much more than just pork. You’ll find baked goods, meats, cheeses, and a wide selection of gifts and home décor. And don’t forget to snap a photo with the giant pig statue—it’s a fun roadside attraction you can’t miss!

British Touch

For a taste of England in the heart of Shakespeare, British Touch is your go-to spot. This charming little shop brings a genuine touch of England with authentic British treats, gifts, décor, and various food items that transport you straight to the British Isles.

Organic Oasis Farm

Just outside of town, Organic Oasis Farm is a haven for organic produce enthusiasts. They offer a vast selection of the finest organic fruits, vegetables, and meats from their farm. Take a hike up to Happy Hog Lookout, where you can watch the hogs frolicking in the mud and sun—a highlight of any visit to Perth County.

Shakespeare may be a small town, but it’s packed with charm and unique experiences. Don’t miss out on these gems during your autumn getaway!

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• The Best of Small-Town Ontario: Discovering Perth County

  Quality at Every Turn

  During our autumn adventure through Perth County, one thing stood out everywhere we went: quality matters. Whether it’s the farm-fresh, locally grown, produced, and sourced ingredients used in the food or the community spirit palpable in every corner, Perth County clearly values excellence. Freshness is key, and supporting the community is vital. This commitment to quality was evident in every aspect of our visit.

  Ontario’s Bounty

  Indeed, good things grow in Ontario, and Perth County is brimming with delightful experiences to see, taste, and discover. From the vibrant farmer’s markets to the cozy local eateries, there’s an abundance of activities and culinary delights waiting for you.

  Plan Your Visit

  Ready to explore this gem? Head over to the Perth County Tourism website for a plethora of activities and resources to help you plan your trip. Don’t forget to pick up or download a copy of their Farm Gate map and start your journey through the farm-fresh goodness that awaits you.

  Discover More of the magic of Perth County this autumn—where quality, community, and freshness come together to create unforgettable memories.

• *This post is a partnership with the Perth County Tourism
  If you would like to partner with Roguetrippers to promote tourism in your area: send us an e-mail