POP-UPS, PATIOS AND PADDLING
Local resident Jenn Lindsay takes us through some of her favourite ways to spend a summer day in Quinte West all the way from morning coffee to capping off the evening with live music. Explore the Quinte West Pop-ups, get out for a paddle and dine on a patio—all within a close walking (or paddling) distance.
FUEL UP AND HIT THE STREETS
We love to start the day with a coffee at The Grind and Vine, located in downtown Trenton. This chic and modern cafe offers delicious coffee made the way you like it. I suggest the Maple Oat Iced Latte, or Iced Caramel Macchiato. Settle into a window seat while enjoying a Flossie’s sandwich and watch the boats and paddlers cruise by on the water. If you’re visiting a little later in the day, grab a glass of wine and charcuterie board to nosh on.
Once we’re caffeinated, we pop into one of the many shops located nearby. Wish Etc. offers decor and flowers for your home inspo, while Vivacious Clothing, The Red Shark Menswear, Sox It To Me, and Studio B will have you looking fabulous for any occasion.
In the market for a good book? J & B Books is perfect for browsing for your next great read. It has a great selection of used books, as well as board games, sports cards and other collectibles. If you’re lucky, you might meet the shop dog, Nelli, snoozing under the table.
Stop by some of downtown Trenton’s newer businesses on the block, Tasteful Trends Cafe and Cakery or Rollin’ Oats, for some scrumptious take-home cupcakes and cookies. If you’re in need of more options, check out the Trenton DBIA website for more shops to explore.
MID-DAY ADVENTURING
All that shopping will certainly put you in the mood for an afternoon treat. Head down to Centennial Park and wander through the Quinte West Pop-Ups, featuring Wannamakers Bakeshop, The County Emporium, and rotating artisan vendors. Grab a picnic table in the shade and snack on wood-fired pizza, donuts, and cold treats.
Quinte West is home to the beautiful Trent River just waiting to be explored so now it’s time to get out on the water! Grab a kayak or a SUP board at the Trenton Rowing and Paddling Club and get your paddle on. Rentals for kayaks, SUP, and canoes are available during July and August (closed Mondays and Tuesdays) and at only $20 for the first hour, you can’t pass up such a unique way to tour around Quinte West. We paddled down the river to see a different perspective of the Trent Port Marina and the Bay of Quinte.
CAP IT OFF
After your paddle, you can refuel at Tomasso’s Italian Grille with some authentic Italian dining. Dig into their delicious Chicken Penne Al Forno while sipping a Tomasso’s Lemonade on their gorgeous patio overlooking the river.
Wrap up the night with live music at Promenade on Front, a new addition to downtown Trenton this summer! Snag a table at These 4 Walls and listen to local talent while socializing with friends before journeying back home. Be sure to pop inside to see their current art display before you leave.
From pop-ups to pasta, cafes to kayaks, the area has so much to offer. Find everything you could need in a day (or two) and explore the best of Quinte West.
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