The sun was shining and spring was in the air. As a family we had errands to do, but none of us wanted to go a mall when snow or rain was not in the forecast. But then I had an idea. A wonderful, terrific idea! Paraphrasing Dr. Seuss fits well, as the thought of errand shopping makes me feel, well, Grinchy. However, if we combined our tasks with fun spots and did it all in one place, it could be a lovely day, without the feeling of mandatory chores. How could this be done? Carleton Place was the answer!
We clambered into our car and headed the 25 kilometres from where we live to Carleton Place. Luckily, the Spring Fine Art Exhibition was being held at the arena, so we decided to start our day perusing the aisles. What a varied exhibition, with artists happily wanting to chat about their pieces. We left inspired!
We exited the arena and decided we couldn’t pass up a brief wander down the adjacent Mississippi Riverwalk Trail. The Riverwalk is wonderful in every season, but with the sun glistening on the water it was a peaceful moment, much needed after a busy week.
Hopping back in the car, we drove over and up Mill Street towards downtown. Driving under the Ottawa Valley Recreation Trail, through the narrow tunnel, always pleases me. You can imagine, a century ago, people using this roadway with its surrounding historic architecture. The water of the mighty Mississippi River was showing its strength running alongside the McArthur Woolen Mill. Instead of the turbines of 1870 cranking, pretty red chairs dotted the scene, beckoning the lucky to sit a while by the raging river rapids.
Past Boulton House, the beautiful old 1820’s gristmill, and onward toward Bridge Street and the architecturally important Town Hall with its Richardsonian Romanesque style. I absolutely love architecture, and Carleton Place does not disappoint.
An easy crossing of Bridge Street led to the (free) parking behind the Moore House Information Centre. It’s incredible to take some time to sit on the bench beside 1819 Moore House and think about the founding Moore family. Across the bridge several more historic buildings were visible, and because of the lovely weather people were happily milling about, up and down the street.
Wandering down Carleton Place’s Bridge Street is always fun with its unique shops, restaurants of all types, and bakeries. Bakeries are very important in my family! What a beautiful day to go in and out of all the shops, filled with curiosities. I found several items on my to-purchase list and met friendly people everywhere. Several people greeted us or complimented my daughter’s fashion or let us pet their dogs. Confession of the day: we did not escape without a baked good purchase! We may have stopped for a while and enjoyed eating some of the world’s biggest and most delicious donuts.
After Bridge Street, we ventured into some name brand stores that normally would not be memorable. However, in Carleton Place, with polite and courteous people, even they were enjoyable.
What an absolutely wonderful day! We completed our errands and experienced great book and toy stores, bakeries, artists, thrift stores and more. We ran out of time for the lovely Riverside Park and didn’t time it right for the Farmers’ Market, but that gives us an excuse to return another day. Carleton Place, you are a gem. You also might be the friendliest spot around and you have everything to make a day outing terrific. Until next time, C.P.!
