Whether you’re preparing to list your home or want to increase its market value, investing in your home’s exterior is one of the best moves you can make. The good news? You don’t need a massive budget or a major landscaping project to see results. From cosmetic fixes to simple yard upgrades, here are five strategic ways to boost your home’s curb appeal, without breaking the bank.

1. Update your Front Door Hardware

It’s remarkable how small touches can have such a significant impact. Swapping out your doorknob, mailbox, and house numbers can instantly elevate any entry. For an inviting addition, consider a fresh welcome mat to complete the makeover. 

Tip: Matching finishes (brass, matte black, nickel) help to create a cohesive and professional look.

2. Add a Touch of Colour and Life with Flowers

Colourful flowers and thriving plants are one of the easiest ways to make your home feel fresh and inviting. Identical potted plants on either side of your entryway create a modern look, while window boxes add a charming cottage vibe. 

Tip: If taking care of plants isn’t your thing, low-maintenance plants are your best friend. Look for perennial plants that will return after winter, and low-effort flowers for planter boxes. 

3. Upgrade your Outdoor Lighting

Dull or outdated lighting can ruin a home’s evening appeal. Replacing old fixtures with modern sconces or lanterns, or lining your walkway with solar-powered torches, is an easy way to highlight your home’s appeal after dark.

Tip: Look for warmer lighting options to create a more welcoming space.

4. Give your Front Door a Facelift

While often overlooked, the front door is a natural focal point for your home. With the right considerations, a bold, fresh colour like navy, green, or red can create an eye-catching look for your home. Just make sure the paint complements the natural palette of your house, that will be the difference between a daring contrast and an unappealing blend. 

Tip: Glossy paints will create a polished and durable finish.

5. Fix or add landscaping

For a bigger impact, consider smaller improvements to your front landscape. A small new garden bed or decorative lawn rocks are cost-effective, DIY friendly options that can add depth to your yard, perfect for long-term appeal. Just make sure you’ve tamed your current yard first; replacing walkways, washing exterior walls, and dealing with weeds are all simple and effective ways to freshen your home’s look.

Tip: Think about how an addition can add depth to your yard before adding it. A layered visual approach creates a much more engaging and appealing look.

Tucked conveniently between Ottawa, Toronto, and Montreal, Brockville is the kind of place that’s easy to pass by, but well worth pulling over for. Whether you’ve got just 1–2 hours to stretch your legs and grab a bite, or a whole day to explore, this town delivers a perfect mix of charm, character, and calm. It’s an ideal stop for road trippers, weekend wanderers, or anyone looking for a relaxing time.

Parking Downtown

Downtown Brockville offers two-hour complimentary parking on designated streets and metered parking on others at a cost of $1.00 per hour. Parking meters accept quarters, loonies, and toonies only. There are ten parking lots located in the downtown core. Hourly parking can be purchased from pay machines in each lot at a rate of $1.50 per hour.

The Pit Stop: 1–2 Hours

Stop 1: Lunch on the Water
Take advantage of the picturesque waterfront with one of Brockville’s outdoor patio options. Fat Les’ Waterfront Patio and Moose McGuire’s Grill offer great views of the St. Lawrence River and Tunnel Bay. A bit further is the newly reopened Gilbert Marina, now with a waterfront patio.

Top Pick: Fat Les’ Waterfront Patio is located at the centre of Blockhouse Island. The grill offers traditional pub-style food for table service and takeout—complimented by a stunning waterfront view. Don’t skip the seasoned fries!

Stop 2: Stretch Your Legs
Brockville’s quaint waterfront is ideal for a light stroll. Be sure to check out Canada’s First Railway Tunnel, located at the entrance to Tunnel Bay. For families or younger tourists, the Mini Tunnel Train offers a short but memorable ride.

Stop 3: Go for a Swim
Enjoy the St. Lawrence River with a dip in one of Brockville’s designated public swimming areas. Nearby Centeen Park includes a dedicated stairwell for easy river access and a jumping platform. For a supervised option, head to St. Lawrence Park, a short drive away, which features a traditional beach with on-duty lifeguards.

The Day Trip: 5–7 Hours

Stop 1: Breakfast/Lunch
A longer visit calls for a full meal at one of the city’s many morning dining options. For a traditional diner breakfast, check out Jon’s Restaurant or the Keystorm Pub. For a unique experience, Cosies Tea Shop serves traditional English breakfasts and baps starting at 10 a.m.

Top Pick: Jon’s Restaurant. Operating for over 50 years, Jon’s is a local staple. Its railway-themed décor perfectly complements the classic and comforting breakfast menu.

Stop 2: The Brock Trail
The city’s 7 km walking and cycling trail is the perfect way to walk off your meal and reach your next activity. Entry points can be found near the river on St. Paul Street or close to the train station on Perth Street. For this itinerary, start at the Perth Street entrance and follow the signs toward St. Lawrence Park.

Stop 3: Kayaking the Brockville Islands
In partnership with DIVE Brockville Adventure Centre, Brockville Tourism offers kayak and paddleboard rentals at the waterfront! For $20 per hour (or $25 for tandem), you can explore the St. Lawrence River at your own pace. Routes from 1 to 3 hours are available for all skill levels, and multiple islands offer paddle-in/paddle-out spots with picnic tables.

Note: Children under 14 must be in a tandem kayak with an adult (18+). Children 14 and older may use single kayaks or paddleboards when accompanied by an adult.

Stop 4: Dinner Options
After an active day, refuel in Brockville’s beautiful, compact downtown, which offers a variety of dinner choices: pizza, Thai, Indian, Vietnamese, and classic pub fare.

Top Pick: Thousand Islands Pizza. A local favorite for over 50 years, this restaurant offers a unique pizza style and delicious Greek entrées. It’s also a proud supporter of the local community.

Optional Stops

If you’re looking to extend your visit, these activities are well worth your time:

Shop Local
Don’t forget to support local businesses! Stroll through historic downtown Brockville and browse shops and galleries. If you're visiting on a Saturday, check out the downtown farmers’ market (8 a.m. to 1 p.m.).

Top Pick: The Riverbank Pottery Studio features handmade pieces from local artists. The best souvenirs are beautiful and functional!

Thousand Islands and Seaway Cruises
If you haven’t had your fill of the river, the local tour boat offers a 1.5-hour “Jewels of the St. Lawrence” cruise. The cruise features audio commentary (in English and French) explaining the rich history of the area.

Tip: Afternoon and evening cruises tend to be less crowded and offer breathtaking sunset views on the water.

Aquatarium
Located at Tall Ships Landing, the Aquatarium is a nonprofit interactive museum—a great option for young families looking for a break from the sun. The exhibits feature rescued and rehabilitated animals, along with hands-on displays focused on the St. Lawrence River’s ecology.

Tincap Berry Farm
Just north of the city, Tincap Berry Farm invites you to pick your own produce or shop for fresh desserts and preserves in the farm store. A great way to spend a relaxed afternoon surrounded by local flavors. July is raspberry season!