Welcome to Barrie, a flourishing city nestled along the picturesque western shore of Lake Simcoe on Kempenfelt Bay. Just a short 90-kilometer drive north of Toronto, Barrie offers visitors a vibrant blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that is sure to captivate your senses.
Exploring Barrie’s Charm: Top 15 Things to Do
Barrie is a city brimming with charm, thanks to its beach-lined waterfront, rich history, and a thriving tourism scene. From relaxing on the beaches to exploring galleries and indulging in culinary delights, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this dynamic city. Let’s dive into the top 15 must-do activities in Barrie:
Let the fun begin at the waterfront
- Whether you want to relax on a beach, play a game of volleyball, or enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront trails, Barrie’s waterfront has something for everyone.
- Don’t miss out on the children’s playground, splash pad, and the tempting array of restaurants and cafes offering delicious treats.
Immerse yourself in the festivities
- Barrie is known for its vibrant festivals, particularly during the summer months. From Kempenfest to Winterfest, there’s always something exciting happening in downtown Barrie.
- Indulge in arts and crafts, live entertainment, and culinary delights at festivals like Barrie Waterfront Festival, Celebrate Barrie, and Ribfest.
Hit the slopes
- For winter enthusiasts, Barrie offers a snowy paradise with ski resorts like Horseshoe Resort, Mount St. Louis Moonstone, and Blue Mountain.
- Whether you’re into skiing, snowboarding, or tubing, Barrie’s ski resorts promise an adrenaline-pumping experience for all adventure seekers.
Explore artistic treasures
- Discover the vibrant art scene at MacLaren Art Centre, showcasing works by Canadian and international artists.
- Don’t miss the opportunity to see the iconic bronze cast of Rodin’s ‘The Thinker’ and immerse yourself in the world of creativity at this prominent gallery.
Marvel at the Spirit Catcher
- Admire the massive spirit catcher sculpture along Kempenfelt Bay, a city icon that symbolizes Barrie’s artistic spirit and creativity.
- Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront and witness this stunning piece of art that adds a touch of magic to the cityscape.
Catch a game
- Experience the thrill of ice hockey at Barrie Molson Centre, home to the Barrie Colts hockey team and a host of exciting sports events.
- Whether you’re a die-hard hockey fan or just looking for some entertainment, a visit to Barrie Molson Centre promises an unforgettable experience.
Retail therapy
- Indulge in a shopping spree at Barrie’s diverse range of shopping destinations, from trendy boutiques to bustling malls.
- Explore downtown Barrie for unique finds, visit Georgian Mall for a mix of global brands, and don’t miss the 400 Market for hidden treasures under one roof.
Sip and savor at a brewery
- Embark on a brewery tour in Barrie and experience the art of craft beer-making at local breweries like Flying Monkeys Brewery.
- Enjoy tastings of different brews and savor delicious meals at the onsite brewery restaurants for a complete culinary experience.
Find your zen through yoga
- Unwind and relax with a rejuvenating yoga class in Barrie, offering various styles like Hatha, Vinyasa, Aerial, and more.
- Explore meditation sessions, TRX, Barre, and spinning for an active wellness experience that nourishes your body and mind.
Discover Barrie’s heritage
- Take a stroll through the city’s historic sites and grand homes on a walking tour to learn about Barrie’s rich heritage.
- Admire architectural gems like the Wellington Hotel, Trinity Church, and classic revival homes that showcase the city’s distinctive character.
Delight your palate
- Treat your taste buds to a culinary adventure in Barrie, with a multitude of restaurants offering everything from fast food to fine dining.
- Explore downtown Barrie for international cuisine, head to the Golden Mile for trendy eateries, and indulge in a gastronomic journey across the city.
Rejuvenate at a spa
- Pamper yourself at one of Barrie’s luxurious spas, like the ones at Blue Mountain and Horseshoe Resort, offering award-winning therapies in a tranquil setting.
- Experience Scandinavian baths, a variety of massages, and unwind amidst the natural beauty of Barrie for a rejuvenating spa retreat.
Immerse yourself in floral beauty
- Explore the vibrant Bradford Greenhouses Gardens and revel in the beauty of thousands of flowers, plants, and shrubs.
- Attend workshops on balcony gardening, herb gardens, and vegetable gardening to enhance your green thumb skills and immerse yourself in the world of botany.
Soar above the city
- Take to the skies in a hot air balloon and enjoy breathtaking views of Barrie, Lake Simcoe, and the stunning countryside from a unique perspective.
- Experience the thrill of a hot air balloon ride at sunrise or on a sunny afternoon for an unforgettable adventure in the skies.
Step back in time at the museum
- Dive into the rich history of Barrie and the Simcoe region at Simcoe County Museum, featuring heritage buildings, artefacts, and exhibits from the 19th century.
- Embark on a self-guided tour or join a guided exploration to gain insights into the area’s past and immerse yourself in the fascinating stories of Barrie’s heritage.
From exploring art galleries to indulging in culinary delights, Barrie offers a diverse range of experiences that cater to every traveler’s taste. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural discovery, this vibrant city has something for everyone.
So why wait? Pack your bags, head to Barrie, and embark on a memorable journey filled with authentic experiences, charming landscapes, and warm hospitality. Discover the magic of Barrie and create lasting memories in this vibrant gem of Ontario, Canada.