Along with many Northern Ontario towns originally surrounded by magnificent forests of virgin pine, Pembroke traces its beginnings to the lumber industry. Incorporated as a Town in 1877 and a City in 1971, the Town has the distinction of being the first in Canada to generate electric power for commercial use, including streetlights installed in 1884. Built in 1866 of freestone, the beautiful County Courthouse remains today one of the finest buildings in Town. NHL hockey greats Frank Nighbor, Hugh Lehman and Harry Cameron played in the Mackay Street Arena built in 1905.

Tour the Champlain Trail Museum and Pioneer Village depicting the early history and environment of the area. Tie-up at the Marina and take a short walk to downtown Pembroke for shopping or stroll the beautifully redeveloped waterfront. Shoot the turbulent rapids on the Ottawa and Petawawa Rivers, especially thrilling during the Spring thaw.

Pembroke accommodations offer a variety of hotels, motels and bed and breakfasts.