Discover hidden histories and untold stories during Doors Open Rideau Lakes on Saturday, August 16 and Sunday, August 17, 2025! In coordination with the Ontario Heritage Trust, sites of historical, cultural and natural significance will be open with free admission throughout the township. From a former jail to a stunning mansion, and from a working heritage mill to private tours of a national scientific resource, see www.rideaulakes.ca/doorsopen
Discover the story behind every door… Doors Open Rideau Lakes
Are you curious? This is for you! Doors Open is an exciting event that allows visitors to explore Ontario’s historical, cultural and natural treasures at free public events across the province. This year, Rideau Lakes will be hosting its own Doors Open event, set for August 16 and 17, 2025 across the township.
Get the inside scoop and go behind closed doors to experience intriguing interiors, where you will be inspired by rare and exceptional materials, craftsmanship and design. From historical houses to modern marvels of construction, Doors Open Rideau Lakes has something for everyone!
Brought to you by the Municipal Heritage Advisory Committee, Doors Open Rideau Lakes is presented in partnership with the Ontario Heritage Trust. You’re invited to walk through 19 special sites and learn by exploring the rich heritage, nature and culture here.
Doors Open Rideau Lakes
Aug. 16 and 17, 2025
10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
https://www.doorsopenontario.on.ca/rideaulakes
Plan your route! The 19 sites participating in Doors Open Rideau Lakes are:
- Chaffey’s Lock Community Hall, 1661 Chaffey’s Lock Road;
- Emmanuel Heritage Centre, 2767 Highway 15, Portland;
- Foley Mountain Conservation Area, 105 Foley Mountain Road (Saturday only);
- Lockmaster’s House Museum, 1724 Chaffey’s Lock Road;
- McKinney House, 798 Highway 15, Lombardy (exterior only);
- Morton Community Hall, 13 Judd Street;
- Newboro Blockhouse, 10 Blockhouse Lane;
- Newboro Branch, Rideau Lakes Public Library, 10 Brock Street;
- Newboro Manor, 11 New Street;
- Old Stone Mill, 44 King Street, Delta;
- Old Town Hall, 8 Lower Beverley Lake Park Road, Delta;
- Philipsville Baptist Church, 1407 County Road 8;
- Queen’s University Biological Station, 280 Queen’s University Road (Saturday only, registration required);
- Red Brick School, 3 Halladay Street, Elgin;
- Revolve Farms, 4 Moran Road, Lombardy (Saturday only);
- Samuel Poole House, 3909 Freeland Road, Portland (exterior only);
- Mary’s Anglican Church, 15 Brock Street, Newboro;
- The Tipped Ship, 3 Main Street, Elgin, and
- Wood Mausoleum, 299 County Road 29, Lombardy.
Find out more about the history at each site, hours, interpretation and tour info at www.doorsopenontario.on.ca/rideaulakes. Check ahead to ensure open hours and activity times.
Want to see a brochure or community itinerary about other things to do in Rideau Lakes communities? Look at this awesome itinerary to plan your weekend and follow along on Facebook and Instagram @experiencerideaulakes.
Link to Google Map of Sites: https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1hN0HFaebHkEw3HwG9ExN57qZYerGZSI&usp=sharing
WHEN
Starting:
August 16
10:00am
Ending: August 17 - 4:00pm