Greater Sudbury is 3,627 square kilometres in area, making it geographically the largest municipality in Ontario and the second largest in Canada. It is comprised of many smaller communities, each with its own unique cuisine, history, and attractions to explore. Approximately 40 minutes north from downtown Sudbury, along the banks of the Vermillion River, lies the welcoming community of Capreol.
Capreol is known for its early roots as a railway junction for the Canadian Northern Railway, as well as its rich lumber, mining and railroading heritage some of which you can still see and experience at the Northern Ontario Railroad Museum and Heritage Centre. The museum offers a range of engaging and educational experiences, a massive model train exhibit, as well as the opportunity to climb aboard historic rail cars, and much more. Although the museum is closed in the fall and winter months, you can still drive down Bloor Street and stop outside Prescott Park to see the Canadian National #6077, otherwise known as “Bullet-Nosed Betty” and the Temiskaming Northern Ontario #219 locomotives. Make sure to check out the museum's site so you can read and learn about their stories!
The centre also offers engaging exhibits and events throughout the year. This includes some spooktacular Halloween programming every weekend in October to help visitors get their scare on.
Near the end of Bloor Street, you will see a beautifully painted mural dedicated to Capreol’s railroad heritage. Completed in 2018 by artist Monique Legault as part of the annual Capreol Days festival, the mural celebrates the town's Centennial, and captures the spirit of the community.
In the heart of downtown Capreol, visitors can stop in to check out the local shops as well as the delicious M & R Grill which is open for breakfast and lunch. Be sure to pick up one of their amazing homemade butter tarts. This one was still warm out of the oven and melted in my mouth.
Plan some extra time to explore along the Vermillion River on the Rainbow Routes Association trails. There are picnic tables to rest or eat a picnic lunch as you listen to the flowing water or admire the view.
If you’ve worked up an appetite, there’s also a great locally-owned restaurant called the Fire House Bar and Grill at 62-2 Dennie Street.
With daily specials, large portions, and unique décor it's a great place to stop and refuel. It’s also home to the drool-inducing Firehouse burger. This burger is totally worth the drive!
Make a plan to discover and explore the welcoming community of Capreol–a part of the diverse, historic, and cultural fabric that makes Sudbury even greater.
For more ideas and inspiration for things to do in Sudbury, visit www.discoversudbury.ca
