Cornwall, Canada
- 48,821 people
- 16 places to visit
- 45.0213, -74.7304
Places to Visit (16)

Cornwall is a city located in Eastern Ontario, Canada, along the Saint Lawrence River, and it serves as a prominent urban center within the regional municipality of Stormont, Dundas, and Glengarry. With a population of approximately 46,000 residents, it is one of Ontario's smallest cities, founded in the late 18th century, and incorporated in 1945. The city's strategic position near the Canada-United States border makes it an important hub for trade and commerce, with the International Bridge connecting Cornwall to Massena, New York. The area's history is rich, rooted in both Indigenous heritage and the development that followed European settlement. Cornwall has evolved from a small village into a thriving community, primarily driven by sectors such as manufacturing, agriculture, and retail.
The city boasts a variety of cultural attractions and recreational opportunities. The Cornwall Community Museum highlights the local history, while the Historic Cornwall Jail is an intriguing site that tells stories from the past. The city's waterfront area, known as the "Cornwall Waterfront," features parks, walking trails, and bike paths, all contributing to a vibrant outdoor lifestyle. Cornwall also hosts several annual events, introducing residents and visitors alike to its diverse community and cultural fabric, including the Glengarry Highland Games, which celebrate Scottish heritage, and the Cornwall RockFest, showcasing music and local talent. The city is also home to St. Lawrence College, which enhances the educational landscape and provides opportunities for local youth. Overall, Cornwall's blend of history, culture, and community pride makes it a unique and inviting place to live and visit.
Facts about Cornwall
- Cornwall is located in Eastern Ontario, near the confluence of the St. Lawrence River and the Ottawa River, making it a significant historical trading post area.
- The city is the birthplace of the Cornwall Canal, which was completed in the early 19th century, playing a vital role in transportation and trade in the region.
- Cornwall is known for its rich heritage, including the existence of the historic 'Woodhouse' which is one of the earliest structures in the region.
- The city is home to the Cornwall and the Counties Museum, which features the history and culture of the surrounding area and the local Indigenous peoples.
- Cornwall hosts the annual Cornwall Lift-Off, a hot air balloon festival that attracts visitors with spectacular balloon displays and various activities.
- In 2021, Cornwall was recognized as a Canadian Cultural Capital, emphasizing its dedication to cultural and artistic development.
- The city has a notable French-speaking population, serving as a hub for Francophone culture and events in Ontario.
- Cornwall's waterfront features parks and trails, including the scenic Cornwall waterfront trail, which is part of the larger St. Lawrence River pathway.
- The city has a unique blend of urban and rural characteristics, with easy access to natural attractions such as the Thousand Islands and the Adirondack Mountains.
- Cornwall was also one of the original locations of the Canadian International Air Show, showcasing air acrobatics and military aviation.