The Vankleek Hill Business and Merchant Association (BMA) wants to promote attractions in town and the surrounding area better. It has launched the new Tourism Trail, an online, self-guided tour of unique businesses, points of interest, parks, and historic sites in Vankleek Hill and the surrounding area. U-pick fruit and vegetable farms, producers of specialty foods and beverages, café’s, artists and artisans, and shops selling distinct products are examples of the businesses already part of the initiative and are among what the BMA is hoping will continue to join.
The BMA wants to emphasize that participation is not limited to businesses and attractions in Vankleek Hill.
“Vankleek Hill is the epicentre,” said BMA Vice President Alex McKinnon.
To join the Tourism Trail, participants are required to purchase a BMA membership. Beginning in July 2026, additional fees for participation will apply. The reason for this is that the BMA would like to build sufficient funds to sustain the Tourism Trail program through marketing and other promotional activities.
“We want to invite businesses who think they would benefit from outside tourism to be part of it,” McKinnon said.
As of Friday, June 20, there were already 17 participants on the Tourism Trail.
McKinnon said the BMA is promoting the Tourism Trail through Savour East and is hoping to promote it through Regional Tourism Organization (RTO) 9, which is the regional tourism agency for Eastern Ontario.
To view the Vankleek Hill BMA Tourism Trail and find out how to participate, go to https://myvkh.com/tourism-trail/.
