The Rainy River District is the part of Sunset Country that is directly adjacent to the American border and is where we welcome our many visitors from the United States. Within the District are three communities where you can spend a few days doing a whole bunch of exciting things. Fort Frances, Ontario is the sister city to International Falls, Minnesota and is the main border entry point into Sunset Country. Emo, situated between the Fort and the Town of Rainy River is a service community that offers access to great fishing on the Rainy River. The Town of Rainy River is at the very southwest part of Ontario, across the border from Baudette, Minnesota and another significant entry point for American visitors traveling to the region. Here is a quick itinerary of things you could do over a three day period in each of these communities.
Fort Frances is the oldest community in the region settled way back in the 19th century. It offers an eclectic mix of great shopping, dining and access to beautiful Rainy Lake. Take a walk along the beautiful LaVerendrye Parkway and enjoy views of Rainy Lake. Stop at the historic Sorting Gap Marina and see the many exhibits they offer. Fort Frances is a cultural hub of sorts with a lively music and theater community - take in a show if you have time. Point Park on the shores of Rainy Lake has a beach, large grassy areas, playground and camping. The Fort also has several nice hotels you can stay in.
Emo, Ontario is a service centre located about 35 kilometers west of the Fort and provides anglers who want to fish the Rainy River a great location to do so. One of the highlights in town is the park along the waterfront, great for a picnic with your family or just as a place to relax in the sun on a warm summer day. Fishing from shore is pretty good too so bring your fishing rod. A real neat attraction in town is the Norlund Chapel, one of the smallest churches in North America - you've just got to see it. Emo also offers good shopping, places to eat and accommodations.
Rainy River also on the shores of the waterway it is named after is a historic railway hub and like Emo, is a key service centre to the farmers who operate in the District. While agriculture does not come to mind when you think of Northwestern Ontario, this part has a thriving farm community. Go see the awesome railway exhibit where the town has a full-sized steam locomotive on display. Ontario's famous Yonge Street (Highway 11) has its terminus in Rainy River, just a couple thousand kilometers away from where it starts in the City of Toronto.
For more information contact the Rainy River Futures Development Corporation.
