When you experience Acton’s incredible community spirit and laid-back yet fun-loving lifestyle, it’s easy to see how it earned the reputation as a “Small Town With a Big Heart!” Although the area spans just under 8 square km, it packs in numerous fascinating sights and points of interest, including:

Fairy Lake: a small 69-acre shallow lake created in 1830. Today, it is a popular recreation spot, where residents and visitors paddleboard, canoe, kayak, fish, and play baseball, tennis, and soccer at the nearby Prospect Park.

Hole in the Wall: a topographical wonder located within the Limehouse Conservation Area. A giant cleft in the limestone of the Niagara Escarpment has become one of our most popular attractions, along with the stone bridge and gorgeous hiking trails.

Acton Events

No matter what the season, Acton is always home to a bustle of activity. Maybe it’s a one-off event at the local library or a Heritage Event at the Town Hall Centre. That’s in addition to several festivals that residents eagerly look forward to all year, such as:

Acton Leathertown Festival

Every year, Acton pays tribute to its tanning history via the Acton Leathertown Festival. This is an outdoor pedestrian mall where you can find one-of-a-kind gifts and crafts, enjoy live music, watch engaging performances, all while enjoying delicious food and beverages. There is also a thrilling midway with rides and games at KIDS ZONE. (All caps is the correct notation. It’s not just us getting super excited about the event!)

Speaking of the festival, it’s the perfect time to highlight even more of Acton’s fun and fascinating story. “Leathertown” is yet another nickname due to its former prominence in the leather industry. For example, the Beardmore Tanning Company, opened in 1865 and ran for more than a century before closing in 1986. The organization was essentially a community in and of itself, with housing for employees, tennis courts, and even a golf course.

Acton Fall Fair

Also known as the Best Little Fair in Ontario, the Acton Fall Fair has been going on since 1913. Tractor pulls, horse shows, and craft displays are just a few highlights residents look forward to, along with a thrilling midway, and great food, of course!

Acton Outdoor Market

A farmer’s market, only better? It may be hard to believe, but it’s true. At what was formerly named the Acton Farmer’s Market, you can browse the best local seasonal produce and sample fabulous baked goods and artisanal treats. While you’re at it, you can test out local VQA wines and craft ciders.

The outdoor market also features local community groups and wellness services. While you’re exploring the best of what Acton’s specialty vendors and downtown restaurants and shops have to offer, you can also enjoy a number of live music shows and other events.

Trick or Treat on Main and Mill

One of Acton’s most beloved traditions is essentially a dress rehearsal for Halloween trick-or-treating. Kids get to test out their costumes and visit participating local shops for compliments, and more importantly, candy!

The event usually takes place on the last Saturday before Halloween. Early hours mean there’s still lots of time for shopping and dining in the charming downtown core.

Like elsewhere in Halton Hills, Acton is served by the Halton District School Board (HDSB)and the Halton Catholic District School Board (HCDSB). Schools right in town include:

Robert Little Public School
McKenzie-Smith Bennett Public School
Acton District School (formerly Acton High)
St. Joseph Catholic Elementary School

Acton and Georgetown are both part of The Town of Halton Hills, but Acton retains its own separate identity and character. It is scenic and charming like Milton or Oakville, but traditionally more affordable than either.

As a historic town that is still growing, you can expect to find a wide mix of housing types and structures. The area is known for its beautiful heritage and century homes, including red brick Victorian and Gothic Revival styles.

There are also mid-century, post-Victorian and contemporary houses, ranging from modest bungalows, converted farmhouses and split levels to executive townhomes and large, spacious detached residences for the growing family.

Fun fact: Acton, Ontario is instantly recognizable, thanks to the slogan for The Olde Hide House, “It’s worth the drive to Acton.” Although the shop has closed its doors, the building is now a designated heritage site, and the catchphrase will live on!

For anyone who lives or has visited here, no advertising is necessary. Simply put: Acton is worth the drive to Acton!