The Rideau Canal runs through the heart of Smiths Falls, enticing travellers to explore its gentle flow upstream towards Ottawa or downstream to Kingston. Either way, the canal's historic ties to the beginnings of the country will intrigue history buffs. It is a heritage reflected in the exhibits both real and virtual at the Rideau Canal Museum. Today the canal is mainly used for touring. Both walkers and boaters delight in the picturesque course of the canal. In a more mechanical age shortly after the the Rideau Canal's days of glory, the railway came to Smiths Falls. At the Smiths Falls Railway Museum you can still see one of the mighty black steam locomotives that once rolled into town. Smiths Falls is also a tempting destination for the sweet tooth. The Hershey's Visitors Centre is home to a chocolate factory and the company offers tours for chocolate lovers.