Walleye, stone carvings, and tiny cabins are waiting to be discovered at this waterfront destination just two hours east of Toronto
The Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte take pride in carrying on the tradition of their ancestors—and a visit here is a chance to experience Mohawk culture through cuisine, art, and entrepreneurship. No matter where you explore on Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory you will leave with a story.
Here is everything you need to know to plan your visit.
Getting to Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory
Located just two hours east of Toronto and just above Prince Edward Country lies Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory on the Bay of Quinte. The historic waterfront community boasts many kilometers of coastline and offers visitors a scenic destination to explore—whether it’s for a lunch, a day trip, or a weekend. Intersected by Highway 2 and Highway 49, everything to see and do here is easily accessible from these two main roads.
Know before you go
As you travel through the territory, you’ll discover symbols of community pride and culture everywhere—Mohawk language is used on street signs and on buildings. To understand more about the culture before you visit, you can visit the Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte website to learn about the community and its history.
Where to find art on Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory
There are many boutiques, galleries, and shops to explore while visiting Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory—many offering original artwork, handmade crafts, and jewelry made by local artists. The oldest gift shop here is Native Renaissance II, operating at the corner of Highways 49, #2, and York Road for over 40 years. Here you’ll find the works of new and established Indigenous artists from all over Turtle Island. The beaded moccasins are popular with visitors along with handcrafted earrings, necklaces, and bracelets made using Indigenous techniques. Visitors will also find an extensive selection of books here for both adults and children, as well as Mohawk language learning guides and postcards designed by Indigenous artists.
Where to Eat Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory
Fresh walleye from Lake Ontario is the most popular locally-sourced dish in the area and is a must try. The fish is always fresh-caught and provided by members of the community. Tiny Ruby’s Fish & Chips is the perfect place to indulge. Located at 656 Norway’s Road (open 11 am – 7pm, seven days a week) this cozy restaurant is located inside the home of owners Lorne Loft and his wife—truly a home-cooked meal. One of the friendliest establishments on the territory, visitors to Ruby’s are in for a memorable experience. The Gallery Cafe located inside Native Renaissance is known for homemade quiche, club sandwiches, and baked goods.
What to see Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory
Just down Bayshore Road is the Mohawk Landing. This is the site where the Mohawks arrived on May 22, 1784, to set up residence in Tyendinaga after the American Revolution. Read the historical plaques to learn more, and if you’re visiting on May 22, a yearly celebration is held to commemorate and mark the anniversary of the Landing with a re-enactment of landfall and a thanksgiving. The landing also offers a view of Forrester’s Island. Known to locals as Snake Island, Forrester’s once housed an orphanage built by famous resident Dr. Oronhyatekha, a Mohawk physician and scholar of national historic significance—was in operation for just 18 months, from 1906 to 1907.
The Tyendinaga Traditional Pow Wow is held on the second weekend in August. Visitors young and old are welcome to attend this annual celebration. Check the Facebook page for information and event updates.
Where to stay on Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory
Lil Crow Cabin is a series of well-appointed waterfront cabins offering s a “magical oasis geared towards offering a private restful space with an adults-only vibe.” The proprietors are KimberLee and her husband David R. Maracle—the award-winning artist and musician who operates the Eagle POD Gallery nearby. Visitors can choose between glamping units or cozy cabins with a gazebo and lounge. Check out more Indigenous-owned places to stay across the province.
Plan your trip to Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory today and enjoy an unforgettable cultural experience.
Andrew Brant is Mohawk producer and writer and a member of the Turtle Clan.