Attractions & Activities

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Due to Covid restrictions please check with the individual business you are thinking about visiting regarding their covid policies.

Dining

The surrounding area is a haven for fine restaurants and eateries. Excellent waterfront dining is only a 15 minute walk from our B&B. Or just a short 10 minute drive to enjoy a wide range of culinary fare.

 

Victoria Harbour...

The Victoria Harbour Lumber Company homes were painted bright yellow, giving the town the nickname “Canary Towne.” The Company store, where the mill workers bought most of their goods, was also painted yellow.

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Shopping

Downtown Midland has a wonderful range of offerings from boutiques to bakeries to contemporary furniture stores and specialty tea rooms. Indulge in a handmade truffle, a steaming latte or delicious cinnamon sticky bun to while away your shopping day.

Specialty shops for home and garden, clothing, fine art and afternoon tea are the perfect antidote for almost everything. Stretch your imagination with Midland’s galleries and antique stores. One-of-a-kind treasures are complemented by the friendliness and service of the shopkeepers and artisans themselves.

 

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Historical Sites & Museums

Be it Museums and History, Natural or Recreational attractions you are looking for, Southern Georgian Bay has it all. Our area is one of the best kept secrets in Ontario – Rich with History, culture and breathtaking landscapes, we are indeed in the midst of Nature’s Paradise.

There is something to do and see for everyone – You won’t be disappointed.

 

Huronia Museum & Huron-Ouendat Village

- Midland - 705-526-2844
The recreated Huron Village represents one of hundreds of similar villages that occupied Huronia for over two thousand years. These villages would have supported 30 to 300 families and consisted of palisades, longhouses, wigwams, sweat lodges, drying racks and fire pits. Huronia Museum houses a variety of displays, which illustrate the human history and culture of one of Ontario's most historic areas. Unique exhibits, which portray the many ideas, images and objects from the people of Huronia.

 

Sainte-Marie Among the Hurons

- Hwy. 12E Midland - 705-526-7838
Explore Canada's national treasure and Ontario's first European community. Experience the re-enactment & dramatic story of the 17th century French Jesuit mission to the Huron nation. Features an introductory audio-visual show, award winning interpretive museum, on-site restaurant and museum gift shop. Special summer presentations include 17th century fire starting, locked waterway demonstrations, and native storytelling with costumed guides.

 

Martyr's Shrine

- Hwy. 12E Midland - 705-526-3788
The twin-spired Shrine Church and 75 pleasantly landscaped acres honour the eight Jesuit saints who lived, worked and died here over 350 years ago. Learn about the Jesuit missionaries, Jean de Brébeuf, Gabriel Lalemant, and their companions who were responsible for bringing Christianity to Canada's First Nations peoples. A place of pilgrimage and a ministry of prayer. Features include Shrine Church, St. Ignatius Prayer Room, Papal Visit Monument, Little Flower Island, Irish Peace Garden, First Nations Park, picnic area and much more. The Shrine, church and facilities are wheelchair accessible.

 

Discovery Harbour

- 93 Jury Drive, Penetanguishene - 705-526-3788
Discovery Harbour was once a military outpost. Now a historic site, many visitors to the Harbour have seen the ghosts of former soldiers walking along the grounds. It also the homeport to the historic replica ships H.M.S. Bee and H.M.S. Tecumseth.  The on-location King’s Wharf Theatre offers great summer shows and diverse entertainment throughout the year.  Fine dining can be enjoyed in Discovery Harbour's beautiful waterside restaurant Captain Roberts' Table, and impressive shoreline boardwalks provide the perfect place to watch an evening sunset overlooking Penetanguishene Bay.

 

Penetanguishene Centennial Museum

- 13 Burke St., Penetanguishene - 705-549-2150
A history of one of Ontario's oldest communities, newly renovated. Visit the 1875 Lumber Office and the original General Store. Learn about the importance of the logging industry in the town’s beginnings. The 4500 sq ft addition houses a great hall with rotating art and traveling exhibitions, archives and Geneology and History Research Centre.

 

Murals of Midland

- 208 King Street, Midland - 705-526-7884
Over 30 huge murals grace the walls of businesses in the downtown core. The mural painted by Fred Lenz stretches across the ADM grain elevator building at Midland's harbourfront and is 80 feet by 270 feet in size. This project has been labeled the "Largest Outdoor Historical Mural in North America. The entire walk will take you about an hour and you won’t be disappointed.

 

Stephen Leacock Museum

- 50 Museum Drive, Orillia - 705-329-1908
Stephen Leacock, Canada's beloved humourist spent his most creative time in what he coined as Lake Simcoe Country. In 1910 Stephen published the first of his humorous books, Literary Lapses and thus began a humour-writing career that gained him fame throughout the world. From 1910 until his death in 1944, Leacock produced an impressive string of best selling humour books which still sell remarkably well over sixty years after his death.

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Natural Attractions

You are indeed in the midst of nature's paradise. The many picturesque and breathtaking tours, the abundance of magnificent, scenic parks full of wildlife and natural wonders for you to explore, and world renowned beaches are but a few of the many attractions that draw a multitude of vistors to our region every year.

 

Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre

- Hwy 12, P.O. Box 100, Midland - 705-526-7809
A non-profit environmental awareness facility that is home to some of the largest remaining breeding populations of rare bird species including Trumpeter Swans. One of the best places to observe the lifestyles of mink beaver, ermine, porcupine and river otter. Enjoy the fresh air as you canoe through the marsh or just take a leisurely walk in the woods. Offers various activities and special events throughout the year, guided hikes, exhibit hall, video theatre, snack bar, gift shop and lunchroom.

 

Georgian Legacy

- 2 Main Street, Penetangishene Town Dock – 705-549-3333
The Georgian Legacy is a beautifully appointed, 90-foot, 300 passenger, double decked vessel with live entertainment on many cruises. Cruise the Penetanguishene and Midland areas as well as the 30,000 Islands. See Beausoleil Island, Giants Tomb Island, Honey Harbour and more! What could enhance this unforgettable experience? When booking a cruise aboard the Georgian Legacy, pre-order a chef inspired, mouth-watering meal or grab a snack and your favourite beverage at our fully licensed bar to enjoy on our spacious upper, open-air deck. Prefer to be inside? Take in the sweeping views from our lower, enclosed cabin.

 

Georgian Spirit Cruises

- 175 King Street, Midland – 705-977-3986
Enjoy a 2.5 hour Sightseeing Cruise onboard the Georgian Spirit. The Sightseeing Cruise is considered one of the top things to do in the Georgian Bay. Georgian Spirit offers more than 30,000 islands and beautiful sites in Georgian Bay. Enjoy a delicious lunch or dinner on the cruise. From Giants Tomb to Beausoleil Island, Georgian Bay is full of history and spectacular sights.
The boat 72 feet long and 23.5 feet wide, is certified for 200 passengers and seats about 130 people for dinner. It was renovated and updated in 2019 and exceeds industry standards.
They will be operating 17 cruises a week, including daily lunch and sightseeing cruises. There will be themed nights, including craft beer and wine Wednesdays, barbecue chicken and rib Fridays and prime rib Saturdays.

 

Awenda Provincial Park

- Hwy 93 toward Penetang – follow the signs - 705-549-2231
Awenda Provincial Park is a natural oasis and a perfect family get-away. Awenda is located near Penetanguishene, only a 30 minute drive from our B&B. With incredible wildlife, natural wonders and spectacular views of Georgian Bay, Awenda offers visitors a “natural room with a view.” Over 30 km of hiking trails, fabulous beaches and in the winter, cross-country skiing complete with warm-up huts. Let us pack you a lunch for a day of fun and excitement.

 

Georgian Bay Islands National Park

- Honey Harbour - 705-526-9804
At Georgian Bay Islands National Park you will discover spectacular landscapes, time-worn rock faces, diverse habitats and the rugged beauty of the Canadian Shield. These magnificent islands are only accessible by boat from Honey Harbour. Let us pack you a lunch for a day of discovery.

 

Big Chute Marine Railway

- Big Chute - 705-756-8802
A highlight of any visit to the waterway is watching the giant carriage at the Big Chute Marine Railway carry boats over the Big Chute on the Severn River. It works on an inclined plane to carry boats in a cradle (without a filled tank) over a change of height of about 18 metres. It is the only marine railway of its kind in North America still in use. Let us pack you a lunch for a day of adventure or dine at one of the many local fine restaurants and pubs.

 

Balm Beach

- Balm Beach - 705-999-0650
Balm Beach is only 30 minute drive from our B&B. Located on the east shore of Georgian Bay it is part of world’s longest freshwater beach. Spend a day in the sun, swim in the crystal clear waters or view spectacular sunsets overlooking Blue Mountain. Go-carts, mini-golf and even an old-fashioned family arcade await all visitors Let us pack you a lunch for a day of adventure or dine at one of the many fine local restaurants and pubs.

 

McKenzie Beach
– Victoria Harbour
A nice small beach area with play ground - ideal for families with small children. The water remains shallow for quite a distance. Situated only a 3 minute drive or a 20 minute walk from our B&B

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Recreational Activities

There is plenty to do and see in Georgian Bay.
There are many recreational activities like Canoeing, Hiking, Biking, Golfing and Bird Watching just to name a few.

Kayaking / Canoeing

- Hwy. 400 North, Exit 149 - 705-538-0881
Experience the beauty and unique freshwater coastline of the 30,000 Islands in Georgian Bay. A prime sea kayaking and canoeing destination for paddlers from all over the world, where wonders never cease. Explore the splendour and rugged shoreline of the 30,000 islands. Marvel at the wildlife and the ever changing terrain and scenery and be one with Nature.

 

Tay Shore Trail - Hike/Bike/Walk/Roller Blade

- Waubaushene - Midland)- 705-538-0881
Tay Township is proud to provide the Tay Shore Trail to residents and visitors to enjoy as a natural recreational venue. The trail boasts over 24 kms of paved recreational trails. This invaluable resource combines the benefits of physical activity with the enjoyment of an off-road, picturesque setting.  Interpretive historical and nature plaques guide your way along the trail, through the natural setting of rivers, ponds, wetlands, forest and field areas and the quaint, friendly atmosphere of our community villages. (Our B&B provides 2 bikes at no charge for your riding pleasure)

 

Hiking/Cycling Georgian Bay

- The area offeres access to several of Ontario's pre-eminent trail systems, connecting may of its parks, cultural and natural amenities, as well as numerous smaller trail systems.  The intention is to capture the communities situated along the shoreline of Georgian Bay, and the significant natural features around them, particularly the Niagara Escarpment and the Beaver Valley.

 

 

Fishing Excursions - The Midland Town Dock - 705-528-0156
Take a six-hour Salmon or Trout fishing trip with Captain Bill George who has been providing exciting half-day outings since the mid-80's; and he knows where to find the fish.

 

Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre - Bird Watching or Walking

- Midland - 705-526-7809
The Wye Marsh is host to numerous species of birds and is a bird watcher’s paradise. Don’t forget to take a camera and some sunflower seeds along or get the seeds at location; and be amazed how the Black-capped Chickadees will eat out of your outstretched hand or off your head. You will also have an opportunity to see some resident Trumpeter Swans and various species of birds that are being nurtured back to health. This is a great way to spend a day, as the marsh is truly magnificent.

 

 

Golfing...

Midland and the surrounding area boasts some of the finest golf in Southern Ontario. There are three outstanding courses within a 20 minute drive from our B&B. Let us reserve a tee-off time for you . (on an available basis).

Brooklea Golf Course
– Hwy. 93, Midland - 705-526-9872

Midland Golf and Country Club
– Hwy. 93, Midland - 705-526-5722

Bonaire Golf Course
– Hwy 400/Exit 137-1699 Woodrow Rd, Coldwater - 705-835-4125

Oakbay Golf Club
Highway 400 exit 156 - 67 Links Trail, Port Severn – 705-538-0853

 

Our Winter Wonderland Activities ...

Awenda Provincial Park
- Hwy 93 toward Penetang –follow the signs - 705-549-2231
Awenda offers 30 km of trails. These trails will help visitors to discover some of the park’s fascinating features.

Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre
- Hwy 12, P.O. Box 100, Midland - 705-526-7809
A beautiful area and quite amenable to the novice - 22 km of groomed & track-set trails and 10 km of designated hiking and snowshoe trails – Rentals available

Horseshoe Valley Resort
- Hwy 400 South, exit 117 - follow the signs - 705-835-2790 >
Horseshoe Resort is a favourite destination for people looking for adventure in the snow. The Cross-country skier and snowshoeing enthusiast can enjoy 35 Km of trails and you won’t want to miss the Moonlight ski nights, were you can ski by the light of the moon on lantern lit trails – Rentals available

Mount St. Louis Moonstone
- 24 Mount St. Louis Rd., Coldwater - 705-835-2112
After 35 years of being involved in the skiing industry, Mount St. Louis Moonstone has gained the reputation of being Ontario's Best for Family Skiing/Boarding and World Famous for Mountain Building.

Ice Fishing / Snowmobile Rentals
- 1-79 Champlain Road, Penetanguishene - 1-888-377-7155
Diverse Rental Company. Located on beautiful Georgian Bay at Hindson Marina

 

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Performing Arts & Art Galleries

Movies, live music and/or theater can be enjoyed most nights of the week in and around Midland.

 

Huronia Players Theatre

- 333 King St., Midland - 705-527-4420
Huronia Players is a community theatre group based in Midland, Ontario. We provide education and workshops for theatre arts and produce three major productions each year at the intimate 120 seat theatre in the Midland Cultural Centre at the corner of King and Elizabeth Streets. We can try to reserve tickets for you, if you wish.

 

King’s Wharf Theatre

- 93 Jury Drive, Penetangishene - 705-549-5555
Operated by the award winning Drayton Entertainment Group, a registered charitable organization and one of Canada's most successful professional theatre companies, presenting the finest in musicals, comedies, and dramas. Open June - Sept. - We can try to reserve tickets for you, if you wish.

 

The Carriage House Gallery

- 372 Midland Ave, Midland -705-527-4632
The Carriage House – The Gallery is situated in a late 1800’s home with an old Carriage House in-situ. The Carriage House established in 2007, by Carol Currie and Stuart Leggett, husband-wife collaborative artists who developed a medium they call sculpted paintings. As artists, their mandate is to awaken the community to the eyes and mind of the artist, a place where art and artists matter. This gallery is well worth the visit and should be on everyone’s itinerary.

 

Lu Robitaille Art Studio

- 21 Pommel Place, Penetanguishene, ON, L9M 1J7 – 705-534-3971
The stunning Georgian Bay landscape paintings and prints in our Georgian Bay room are just a small indication of the superb artistry of our resident and very popular artist   Ms. Lu Robitaille. Her deep feelings for Georgian Bay live in the art she creates; her rocks and water reflect the love and warmth she has for this unique part of Canada.  She has also developed a great affection for the character of old farms and lighthouses, but her passion is the Bay. While primarily known for her miniature paintings, Lu has developed a style and format based on water colour for her medium.  She also paints larger pieces and commissions that now hang in homes and collections from Switzerland to California, England to the Bahamas. A veteran of dozens of juried exhibitions, private showings and public shows, Lu has won international awards and a place in the hearts of art aficionados everywhere. Membership in the Miniature Art Society of Florida Inc. has brought her increased international exposure and Lu's work is getting global recognition.  Lu's work is in the collection of Her Excellency, former Governor General of Canada, Adrienne Clarkson. Ask us about either taking you on, or arranging you a tour of her studio.

 

Newton Street Art Barn

- 2406 Newton Street, Victoria Harbour, ON, L0K 2A0 – 705-241-2466
Gift Shop and Studio – 40+ Artisans. Providing an opportunity for artisans to showcase their work in a creative and natural environment on a consignment basis. We encourage handmade artistry with a focus on recycling, reusing and re-purposing. Open Thursday to Monday from 10:00am to 5:00pm – We are wheelchair accessible.

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