10 Things You Shouldn't Miss Out On In Barrie

10 Things You Shouldn't Miss Out On In Barrie

 

Barrie is a beautiful city located on the western shore of Lake Simcoe in Central Ontario. It is a popular tourist destination as it offers a range of activities for people from different age groups. Here are the top 10 things you shouldn't miss out on your visit to Barrie:

 

1. Explore the Barrie Waterfront

Barrie's waterfront is one of the City’s biggest draws! With a beautiful scenic area, and miles of walking and biking trails. It offers stunning views of the lake, and you'll also find several restaurants, cafes, and stores. We have 3 beaches and numerous parks. During summer, it is a popular spot for fishing, swimming, and other water sports activities.

 

 

2. Attend Events and Festivals

Barrie hosts several cultural and music events throughout the year, such as Barrie Waterfront Festival, Kempenfest, and Barrie Film Festival. These events are an excellent way to experience the community's culture and traditions, meet new people, and have fun.

 

 

3. Get Outside During the Winter Months.

Barrie has lots to do during winter time and a winter wonderland for those who love the outdoors. Go skiing, tubing, snowmobiling, snowshoeing and lots more! There are a few known resorts within the city and surrounding areas including Snow Valley, Horseshoe Resort, Blue Mountain and Mt St Louis Moonstone.  

 

 

4. Take in a Hockey Game.

Ice hockey is the biggest sport in the city with games taking place at our own arena. The arena sits over 4000 people and it’s where the Barrie Colts call home. The arena also holds multiple special event throughout the year as well so there’s always something going on even during the off season.

 

 

5. Tour a Craft Beer Brewery.

Barrie is home to a few craft beer spots. Learn how beer is made and try a variety of different styles. All tours include a tasting so learn and taste all the different brews you could imagine. Stay and try out some delicious food after your tour as well since all our breweries also have on site restaurants.

 

 

6. Visit the MacLaren Art Centre

The MacLaren Art Centre is a public art gallery, located in Downtown Barrie and features Canadian contemporary and historical art exhibitions, workshops, and educational programs. With over 26,000 square feet of gallery space, it's the perfect destination to explore the diverse range of Canadian art.

 

 

7. Our Massive Spirit Catcher.

Right along the shores of Kempenfelt Bay we have a 21m high by 25m wide sculpture that was originally created by Ron Baird for the 1986 EXPO in Vancouver. Influenced by the iconography of Indigenous oral traditions in the Pacific Northwest, the work references the Thunderbird. Originally installed at False Creek in Vancouver, the 20 tonne Corten steel Spirit Catcher was purchased by the Helen McCrea Peacock Foundation of Toronto and was donated to the Barrie Gallery Project (later the MacLaren Art Centre) in 1987 in hopes to inspire local art and artists.

 

 

8. Visit the Barrie Farmers' Market

If you enjoy fresh produce and handmade crafts, then the Barrie Farmers' Market is a must-visit destination. Located at City Hall, the market is open from May to October, offering a wide range of fruits, vegetables, artisan bread, honey, and more, from local vendors.

 

 

9. Shopping

Barrie has a multitude of shops and boutiques ranging from small local businesses to more traditional shops like malls, flea markets and stand-alone spots. If you’re looking for some fun and unique gift stores, head to the downtown area for all the best one of a kind finds.

 

 

10. Enjoy an Amazing Nightlife.

Our downtown is home to some of the most amazing restaurants and bars the city has to offer. A fun night out is always waiting for you downtown. Start with a great meal, a few specialty drinks, watch some local artists and bands perform or head on over to do a little dancing, end your night with a starry walk along the waterfront. You’ll find everything you need for a fun time at Barrie’s downtown core.

 

 

Barrie, offers a diverse range of activities that provides something for everyone. So why not plan a trip to Barrie, or better yet, plan your move here and experience all that it has to offer? The city welcomes you!