TRAVEL LIKE A LOCAL | Top 10,000 Places to Visit in Canada
The page created by Alex Marzec | Red River College | Photo by P199, CC-BY-SA-3.0
In the 19th century, the area was the northern terminus of the Underground Railroad. By the 1850s, the city of Chatham was called the “black mecca of Canada.”
Step inside the museum and uncover the emotional journey of Chatham’s Black community from the end of the 18th century to the present day. Through exhibits, artifacts and an extensive collection of reading materials, the past lives of prominent figures are kept alive.
End of May
Downtown Chatham is home to the annual RetroFest organized by the Historic Downtown Chatham BIA in partnership with the Kent Historic Auto Club.
The event features some Southwestern Ontario’s finest retro cars on King Street and a full festival in Tecumseh Park.
Photo: facebook.com/Retrofest
A visit to Chatham-Kent is not complete without taking in one of the famous Ghost Walks of Chatham-Kent. Whether you are a believer or a skeptic, you will be intrigued by the tales of extraordinary ghostly encounters across the community.Â
There are many places in Chatham where violence or strong emotion once occurred and are today home to haunting spirits. Haunted sites on the Chatham tours include cemeteries, famous city landmarks, private homes and schools.Â
The famous ‘cemetery strolls’ are an outdoor event.
The Buxton Site & Museum is an area made up of 18th-century buildings dating back from the beginning of the Elgin Settlement.Â
As you arrive, you will see the Museum, Church, Schoolhouse, the Colbert/Henderson Cabin, and the Shadd Barn. Local historians are around to answer any questions.Â
More inside the museum, you will find historical items, pictures, and documents – dating from the upbringing of the settlement to the Slavery and Railway Era.Â
Photo: facebook.com/buxtonmuseum
The Chatham Capitol Theatre is a one-of-a-kind, 1930’s era movie theatre located in central Chatham. This beautifully architectural opera house is ornamented with historical grandeur, art and gilded decor, opera boxes and an ornate ceiling.Â
The Chatham Capitol Theatre is a must to visit. The up-to-date rigging and 65-foot tower is capable of advanced show casings. The setting is worth the visit, and visitors are recommended to keep an eye on the official website for upcoming films and performances.
Photo: facebook.com/ChathamCapitolTheatre
Sons of Kent Brewing is more than just a brewery. It is the hang-out spot for locals and fellow travellers around. As you venture inside, you can view the brewery, tasting room, bottle shop, retail store, and dining area with live music. Â
Be fascinated with their modern listing of beers such as Bananna Hammock Hefeweizen, Space Heater, Mammoth, and so much more. Their beers are all crafted with exquisite flavours.Â
Photo: facebook.com/sonsofkent
Early Acres Estates is a small winery located inland in the Chatham area. Sitting at seven and a half acres of vineyards on sandy loam soil. Come in, and try some of their hottest products, such as Charming Cherry, All Night Long, and Vidal.Â
You may roam their winery anytime to see how their grapes are processed from start to finish.Â
Photo: facebook.com/EarlyAcresEstateWinery
Kingston Park, located near the edge of Chatham, is a beautiful local park. There is much to value and explore in this decent-sized park.Â
Many sidewalk paths can be found, all being looped and in different directions to your leisure preference. Benches are around for a quick stop to rest as you go to the well-accomplished setting.Â
There are picnic areas for larger gatherings. Â
Photo: brownandstorey.com
The O’Neil Nature Preserve is a large standing, untouched ecosystem on the outskirts of Chatham.Â
Inside is an eased 880 metre, looped, gravel trail. The trail offers a mix of flowers, shrubs, trees, local wildlife, and so much more.Â
Photo: o-formerly-paxtons.edan.io
The Thames Art Gallery is an exciting venue for bringing together a diverse exhibit of artworks – from pieces that are from the local high school to national and international works.Â
Many artists regularly host their shows for publicity. Overall, the gallery is a beautiful opportunity to lavish on artworks, converse with artists, and get a better education on art’s mind, aspect, and creativity.
Photo: chatham-kent.ca
Located off the Thames River, Mamma Maria’s Ristorante has the town’s most exquisite Italian dishes.Â
The place has an Italian-like atmosphere that gives a warm feeling. Food is expensive, but the presentation, quality, and portion sizes are excellent. Food items they’re focused on go from Pasta, Pizza, and Salads.Â
Photo: mammamariasristorante.ca
Spice and Curry is a wonderful Indian Cuisine establishment. Portions are huge, and the prices are very fair.Â
Many authentic dishes that are a favourite go from lentil Soup, an assortment of tandoori, curries, biryanis, masala chai tea, and so much more.Â
Photo: spiceandcurry.ca
