There is something for everyone in Dresden and it's a favourite day-trip for locals too.
The community of Dresden is well worth a visit as part of your #VisitCK experience. Enjoy the historic downtown streets, the unique shops, amazing restaurants, and lush green parks. Take time to admire the Dresden War Memorial and head to the Dresden Arboretum or the Trillium Trail Historical Walk for a relaxing autumn stroll. Grab take-out from Burns Restaurant & Catering or Union Block Bakery and head to Kinsmen Community Park or Stranak Conservation Area - featured amongst our VisitCK key picnic spots.
An afternoon of fun and excitement awaits you with the thrill of live horse racing at Dresden Raceway. In July, enjoy the Dresden Exhibition featuring a midway, live music, kids events, agricultural contests and more! You can put your boat, kayak or canoe in the Sydenham River at the Dresden Boat Launch for a fun day on the water. A visit to the Crappie Store for new fishing and hunting gear is a must. There you can also avail of various watercraft rentals and get yourself on the water!
You will enjoy visiting the Josiah Henson Museum of African-Canadian History that commemorates the life of Reverend Josiah Henson (1796-1883) and his work in the abolition movement and the Underground Railway. Spend the day learning at the Josiah Henson Interpretive Centre, featuring the Underground Railroad Freedom Gallery and North Star Theatre, interactive exhibits, numerous artifacts, and tours. Every August, the site is home to a large event honouring Emancipation Day. You can continue to explore Dresden's rich history with the self-guided audio tour of the Dawn Settlement Walking and Driving Tour.
If you are looking for a true organic farm experience, visit the River Bell Market Garden where Joe grows organic produce and delivers locally. Be sure to visit the Summer Night Market, held every August, where you can enjoy unique local vendors, food, entertainment, and shopping. You will love winter's Downtown Dresden Night Market, an open air shopping experience held on the same night as the Dresden Santa Claus Parade. Here you can find that perfect Christmas gift from local businesses and artisan vendors, try different cuisines, and enjoy entertainment under the starry night sky. When you visit downtown, be sure to find the barn quilts (hint...crossroads) and snap a selfie next to them (don't forget to tag us in your photo).
We've outlined just some of the things to do when you #VisitCK, but be sure to come and discover on your own. Follow #SeeYouinCK on Facebook and Instagram for more great places to visit and ways to spend your days in Chatham-Kent.
We can't wait to #SeeYouinCK.
