Showing Our Pride: 11 Rainbow Registered Businesses to Support this Summer
June is Pride Month in Ontario and in Ontario’s Highlands we are celebrating the business owners and businesses who are going above and beyond to support diverse voices and orientations. Coordinated by Canada’s 2SLGBTQIA+ Chamber of Commerce (CGLCC), the Rainbow Registered accreditation program is a national accreditation for 2SLGBTQIA+ friendly businesses and organizations, to let customers know they are safe and welcomed at their business.
There are multiple benefits for tourism operators who go through the accreditation process to become Rainbow Registered. Registration shows their support for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, and businesses also receive a Rainbow Registered Welcome Kit that allows them to proudly display the Rainbow Registered trademark at their business. Accredited businesses also receive a free listing in the Rainbow Registered online directory.
When planning your travel this summer, consider supporting one of these businesses, and show your Pride in Ontario’s Highlands.
Haliburton Forest & Wild Life Reserve (Haliburton Highlands)
With 100,000 acres, 100 lakes and millions of trees, Haliburton Forest is one of the last great wilderness regions in the province. Hike their 400-kilomeetres of trails and spend the night in one of their accommodations that range from waterfront cabins to off-grid remove micro-cabins and even tenting.
Sunny Rock Bed & Breakfast (Haliburton Highlands)
Made for nature lovers, Sunny Rock Bed & Breakfast is an adult-only bed and breakfast located in Haliburton Highlands. Book one of their historic rooms and head out to explore the region by water or by bike. All are welcome here.
Dimensions Algonquin Highlands (Haliburton Highlands)
In Haliburton Highlands, Dimensions Retreats offers two-day getaways where guests can spend the night in a modern and minimalist Zen-like cabin nestled on the shores of a 40-acre lake. Connect your mind and body as you explore meditation, mindfulness, forest bathing and more in this five-star environment.
Limerick Lake Lodge (Hastings County)
Located near Gunter in Hastings County, this lodge and marina is the ideal place to stay and play while exploring the trails by ATV or by bike.
Le Boat (Lanark County)
In Lanark County, Le Boat rents luxury houseboat cruisers to cruise the canal from Smiths Falls north to Ottawa or south to Kingston. Cruisers accommodate between two and 12 guests and offer a cottage-like experience, only on the water.
Mississippi Valley Textile Museum (Lanark County)
If you love textiles, this museum will give you an experience you will remember. Explore the history of textile manufacturing in the small town of Almonte and see how textiles can also be works of art.
OWL Rafting on the Ottawa River (Ottawa Valley)
OWL Rafting puts you in the hands of their experienced guides to raft the rapids and come out the other side a winner. OWL offers multiple packages with everything from a gentle, relaxing raft trip to an experience that will ensure you get wet (over and over again).
Somewhere Inn Calabogie (Ottawa Valley)
Tucked in amongst the trees, Somewhere Inn Calabogie is a renovated motel with a minimalist vibe. Guests can spend their days exploring the wilderness around Calabogie and their evenings snuggled up in an outdoor hammock or gathered around the bonfire.
Deep Roots Adventures (Haliburton Highlands)
Based in Haliburton Highlands, Deep Roots Adventures offers guided outdoor experiences where they take care of the details so you can enjoy the experience outdoors. Their High Falls Paddle & Dine experience takes paddlers to explore the beautiful York River and falls followed by a catered picnic.
Madawaska Kanu Centre (Hastings County)
Madawaska Kanu Centre (MKC) is where novice paddlers go to learn whitewater paddling and experienced ones go to brush up on their skills. Take one MKC’s whitewater courses and spend your days on one of the most beautiful waterways in Ontario, the Madawaska River, paddling, splashing, and generally having an amazing time.
Ontario’s Highlands Tourism Organization (OHTO)
That’s right! We are proud to have received Rainbow Registered Accreditation, one more step in our responsible tourism journey. Rainbow Registered accreditation demonstrates OHTO’s commitment to turning our words into action and building an inclusive tourism community.
Become Rainbow Certified
Business owners interested in becoming Rainbow Registered will find the application process is quick and easy. For a limited time, Ontario’s Highlands members with less than 10 employees are able to access this program at no charge.
To sign up for a promo code and complete the program for free, please complete this short questionnaire. A member of the OHTO team will follow up with you in a few days with any follow-up questions and/or provide you with your promo code. Please note: promo codes are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
Once you receive your promo code, you can begin the process:
1. Visit the CGLCC program page and refer to the Rainbow Registered Application Guide.
2. Click on the Start the Process button and choose your appropriate business size. If you are new to CGLCC you will need to create an account first. Click Continue.
3. Enter your coupon code and credit card information (for future billing purposes).
You can feel good knowing you are supporting an inclusive environment for all, and acting as an industry leader in fostering goodwill for all members of society.
