Vacation rentals in Kenora

Located amid the boreal forests and lakes of Northwestern Ontario, Kenora’s main attraction is its body of water — the massive Lake of the Woods, which has more than 14,500 islands and is nearly as large as the Great Lakes. Lake of the Woods extends from Ontario into Manitoba and across the US border into Minnesota, but you can enjoy its beaches, and swim, kayak, canoe, paddleboard, or fish in its waters without straying far from town. You’ll know that fishing is important here when you spot Husky the Muskie, a 12-metre(40-foot)-tall statue of a fish beside the lake. Stop into the town’s brewery, which opened in 1898; you can book a tour of the former firehall that still houses its brewing operations.

Summer and early fall are the most popular times to visit Kenora and the Lake of the Woods region. From July through September, everything is open; the days are warm, even hot; and lake life is in full swing. Peak foliage season starts here in mid-to-late September. Expect heavy snow and sub-zero temperatures between November and March, and you can sometimes get snow as late as April or as early as October. Mosquitoes and black flies can be a nuisance, especially in the spring and early summer, so make sure you pack protective clothing and insect repellent.

The Muse

Near the waterfront on Kenora’s Main Street South, The Muse encompasses two buildings: the Lake of the Woods Museum and the Douglas Family Art Centre. The museum features exhibits about local heritage and culture, while the newer art centre showcases artworks and offers activities for families.

Rushing River Provincial Park

Rushing River is known for the cascades tumbling down the river, but it’s also a destination for canoeing, kayaking, fishing, and hiking. The provincial park, which is 25 minutes southeast of Kenora, has four swimming areas with sandy beaches. It’s also the access point for multi-day canoe trips into Eagle-Dogtooth Provincial Park.

Sioux Narrows Provincial Park

Sioux Narrows Provincial Park is located on Lake of the Woods, southeast of Kenora. You can view Indigenous pictographs within the park, or choose from boating, canoeing, fishing, or swimming in the lake. Also in the park is a family-friendly lakeside camping area with about 50 sites.