Merrickville is renowned for its boutiques, which are filled with one-of-a-kind items made by local artists and artisans. Their unique talents are on display at studios where craftsmen demonstrate their trade as well as sell their wares. Glassblowing, leatherworking and baking are just a few of the skills you can witness firsthand. You can buy the creations made before your eyes.  Merrickville is home to some of the finest spas, boutiques, restaurants and B&B's, along with great service.

The village streets are lined with shops carrying such things as locally-made products, art of all kinds, antiques, collector's items, furniture, home & gardening accessories, pet gifts and accessories, specialty foods, and more.

Considered to be one of Canada's best preserved 19th century villages, Merrickville boasts uniquely restored and exquisitely maintained homes, all within an easy walk around town. The Merrickville Historical Society's website contains much of village's history as well as a pictorial historical walking tour. Central to the Village is The Blockhouse, built in 1832 and now a museum of fascinating local artifacts. The locks of the Rideau Canal are fascinating to watch and operate today just like they did over 175 years ago.

 

What you'll find in Merrickville is a wonderful antidote to the hustle, bustle and expense of a city. You can usually find free parking right on the main street, which is lined with restaurants and unique shops featuring local artisans as well as products from around the world. Rowland Leather has been creating award winning locally made purses and other leather items for 35 years. Mrs. McGarrigle's Fine Food Shop is a foodie's mecca and is known for their award-winning mustards and chutneys as well as food tastings, demos, classes and kitchenware.

 

At one time, Merrickville had the largest department store between Chicago and Montreal. That building now contains an inn, fine dining restaurant with ballroom, a pub as well as the Knock-Knock shop. It's well worth visiting the shop's second floor to see each room's distinctive ceiling.

 

An area called 'Merrickville South' is well worth the two block detour south of the main shopping area to see some world famous artisans like Kevin Robert Grey and Claudette Hart, the infamous "Gourd Lady" only a couple of the 'must-see' artists to be found there. There's much more to discover. www.realmerrickville.ca will give you the details of the many artists and businesses in and around the village.