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A boat trip through the compact network of canals in the city comes with a nice explanation of the historic buildings you pass. It's a fun and relaxing way to see the town and understand its history. The tours are carried out with small group boats, take about 40 minutes and leave opposite the tourist information center, which is the place to arrange them. It's best to make arrangements ahead if you want to join an English language tour.
The 15th-century Waag, or weigh house, is also called the "witches' scale", as it was used to weigh women and determine whether or not they possessed witchcraft in the 16th to 18th century. Holy Roman Emperor Charles V gave the Oudewater Waag the privilege to perform such test, making it the only official with weight in Europe at that time. There's no proof of anyone ever being convicted for witchcraft here, though, and only a small number of women were weighed there to prove their innocence. Today, it's one of the town's main attractions. The top floor of the building is now a small museum, housing the witch weigh and offering "certificates" to visitors, confirming them to not be witches due to the test results.
The town's city hall was extensively renovated and renewed in 1887, but was built as early as 1588. On the roof there's a small bell tower, with a 1699 bell made by Pierre Hemony. The building is used for marriage ceremonies but otherwise not open to the public.
Rope Museum
This small museum has a nice collection on the product that was so vital for Oudewater's development: rope. It's closed in winter, but if you're willing to pay extra (about €25) they will often open, also in the evening (evening openings in weekend cost €50). Make sure to arrange any special openings in advance, however.