Kathleen Barr

The Pembroke Business Improvement Area (PBIA) is marking a major milestone in 2026, celebrating 50 years of supporting and championing businesses in the heart of downtown Pembroke. This anniversary is more than a reflection on longevity, it highlights the ongoing role of the downtown core as a hub for economic growth, entrepreneurship, and community connection.

As winter fades and longer days return, many people in Ottawa start looking for a quick reset, somewhere close enough for a spontaneous trip, but far enough from the city to feel like a true getaway. Just 90 minutes west along Highway 17, Pembroke offers exactly that: a spring destination where nature, local businesses, and small-town charm come together for an easy day trip or relaxing weekend away. Start your day downtown A perfect visit often begins in Pembroke’s historic downtown.

When production companies look for filming locations, they often default to major urban centres. But increasingly, producers are discovering the strategic advantages of filming in smaller, well-connected communities like Pembroke. Located just 90 minutes from Ottawa along Highway 17, Pembroke offers the accessibility production teams need, without the congestion, permit delays, and high costs that can complicate filming in larger cities.