Discover Barrie, Ontario: A Gem Just North of Toronto

Barrie, Ontario, is a charming city located only an hour from Toronto's Pearson International Airport and less than 90 minutes from downtown Toronto. With its scenic waterfront on Lake Simcoe, historic downtown, and proximity to outdoor activities, Barrie is an ideal destination for a weekend getaway or day trip. To reach Barrie with ease, consider renting a car.

Lake Simcoe is a haven for boaters and ice fishers, while the nearby hills, such as Horseshoe Valley, attract skiers with their abundant snowfall. For a comprehensive guide to Barrie's attractions, check out the top things to do in Barrie, Ontario.

1. Horseshoe Resort: A Year-Round Adventure Hub

Barrie is a hotspot for skiing and outdoor activities, with Horseshoe Resort leading the charge. Located in the picturesque Horseshoe Valley, just 20 minutes from downtown Barrie, the resort is a favorite for both beginners and seasoned skiers. It offers a 91-meter vertical, night skiing, and a variety of winter sports. Summer activities include mountain biking and ATV-ing. Nearby, Snow Valley Ski Resort and Mount St. Louis Moonstone provide additional skiing options.

Address: 1101 Horseshoe Valley Road W, Barrie, Ontario

Official site: https://horseshoeresort.com

2. Stroll Along Barrie's Waterfront and Centennial Park

Barrie's waterfront is a highlight, with a six-kilometer stretch of paved paths connecting Johnsons' Beach to Minet's Point Park. Centennial Park, with its expanded beach area, is a central spot for relaxation and family fun. Cyclists can enjoy the Oro-Medonte Rail Trail, which spans nearly 40 kilometers to Orillia.

Address: Lakeshore Drive, Barrie, Ontario

Official site: www.barrie.ca/Living/ParksTrails/Parks/

3. Admire the Spirit Catcher Sculpture

The Spirit Catcher, a landmark sculpture by Ron Baird, stands tall on Barrie's waterfront. The 21-meter-tall structure features 16 quills that move in the wind, creating a captivating sight.

Address: 15 Lakeshore Drive, Barrie, Ontario

4. Explore Downtown Barrie

Downtown Barrie offers shopping, dining, and cultural experiences. Notable spots include Tara and Groovy Tuesday's Bistro for dining, MacLaren Art Centre for art enthusiasts, and Five Points Theatre for a mix of music and theater.

Address: 93 Dunlop Street E unit 102, Barrie, Ontario

Official site: https://downtownbarrie.ca

5. MacLaren Art Centre: A Cultural Keystone

The MacLaren Art Centre, housed in a heritage building, showcases works from prominent Canadian artists and offers tours, workshops, and a café.

Address: 37 Mulcaster Street, Barrie, Ontario

Official site: https://maclarenart.com

6. Enjoy Nature at Arboretum Sunnidale Park

Arboretum Sunnidale Park, Barrie's largest park, features an arboretum with 1,800 shrubs and trees, and offers activities like sports and gardening.

Address: 227 Sunnidale Road, Barrie, Ontario

7. Step Back in Time at Historic Fort Willow

Historic Fort Willow in Utopia showcases the area's past as a supply depot and meeting point for First Nations, explorers, and fur traders. It's also a starting point for hiking trails.

Address: 2714 Grenfel Road, Utopia, Ontario

Official site: www.nvca.on.ca/Pages/FortWillow.aspx

8. Simcoe County Museum: A Historical Treasure Trove

The Simcoe County Museum in Minesing offers a glimpse into the region's history with heritage buildings and galleries displaying artifacts and replicas.

Address: 1151 ON-26, Minesing, Ontario

Official site: https://museum.simcoe.ca