Dating back to 1816, and named after the city of Perth in Scotland, Perth stands on the Tay River, a branch of the Rideau. After the war 0f 1812, this community of fifty-five hundred became a strategic military point. Soldiers and officers were granted pieces of property, according to their rank, as an incentive to settle in the area. Perth later became a major drop-off point for trade, when in the early 1880's, the Tay river was dredged to make it navigable to the Rideau, and flat-bottomed boats began transporting goods to and from Perth and Montreal and Ottawa.

Today, boaters must cruise through the Beveridge Locks at the south end of  Tay Canal and pass through a marsh before arriving in Perth. Most pleasure boats can enter the basin under the Craig Street Bridge while others can dock at Last Duel Park, site of the last fatal pistol duel in Ontario.

For a picnic or a refreshing swim, head to Stewart Park, which also features band concerts during the summer. Attractions include the local museum where you can learn about archeology first-hand, a wildlife reserve historic golf course and 19th century Main Street.