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Things to See & Do in
Festivals and Special Events Museums and Historic Sites Art Shows and Studio Tours Music Concerts, Theatre & More www.discovermuskoka.ca • 1.800.267.9700
One-Of-A-Kind Attractions Gravenhurst Muskoka Wharf
Gravenhurst’s waterfront has been reborn in this 89-acre waterfront treasure – homeport of North America’s oldest operating steamship, the RMS Segwun. While there, visit Grace & Speed for a glimpse into boating past at this boat and heritage centre. Nearby shops, restaurants, boardwalk and hiking trails make this an experience you won’t want to miss. www.realmuskoka.com
Bethune Memorial House National Historic site
Commemorates the life and achievements of Dr. Norman Bethune, most famous for the time he spent in China serving as a surgeon and teacher. Today, his story continues to be an example to millions of Chinese students. www.pc.gc.ca
The Gravenhurst Opera House
Muskoka lakes Bala’s Museum – Featuring
memories of author Lucy Maud Montgomery who vacationed in Bala in 1922 where she was inspired to pen her novel “The Blue Castle”. Great family fun where kids tour in costume and magic lantern shows take place every Saturday. www.bala.net/museum
The Wall – Port Carling’s past comes alive in the
world’s largest historic photo-mosaic. What appears to be a huge steamship is actually made up of thousands of individual photos from the past. Beside the locks in downtown Port Carling.
Johnston’s Cranberry Marsh and Muskoka Lakes Winery – Open year round.
Great performances in a charming 106-year-old heritage building … this is where Canadian Summer Theatre began! www.gravenhurstoperahouse.com
Hike, bike or take a tour and learn about cranberry growing. Taste the wines and experience the wide range of cranberry gifts and products available. www.cranberry.ca
The Tree Museum – Combine the pleasure of a walk
Muskoka Lakes Museum – Visit the Hall Family
in the woods with the surprise of contemporary sculptures nestled in a natural setting. Nature, an integral part of the installations, presents a constantly changing canvas. www.thetreemuseum.ca
Rotary Gull Lake Park - Music on the Barge – Many well known musical acts have been
presented here since the 1940’s. Starting June 22 and then every Sunday until August 17. Showtime 7:30. Shows are free but donations accepted. www.musiconthebarge.com
Torrance Barren’s Dark Sky Reserve
See the stars as you have never seen them before. The first of its kind in Canada, the Torrance Barrens is now officially recognized as a Dark Sky Reserve. www.muskokaconservancy.org
Homestead – a two-story log cabin built in 1875 and experience what life was like in the late 1800’s. The Marine Room pays tribute to the history of boat building in the area. Located on a scenic Island Park in Port Carling. Approach is by footbridge. www.mlmuseum.com
Cruising - The best way to see the grandeur of the lakes of Muskoka with their remarkable boathouses and majestic summer homes is from the deck of a tour boat. The cruises range from sightseeing tours, lunch and dinner cruises, and overnight adventures which include accommodations at a historic resort. www.discovermuskoka.ca
Great Things to See and Do Bracebridge Santa’s Village Family Entertainment Park – Features 50 acres of family fun. Visit Santa in his summer home, enjoy rides and a park train tour. Older kids will adore Sportsland with its go-karting, mini-golf, laser tag, video arcade and more. You and the family can even camp at the Whispering Pines campground. www.santasvillage.ca
Lady Muskoka Cruises
Offering a wide variety of cruises for all budgets that will take you down the beautiful Muskoka River out onto Lake Muskoka. Daily departures from the Riverside Inn. www.ladymuskoka.com
Rich Hill Candles
Curiosities, treasures, collectibles and candles – a unique experience every time you visit. Watch the chandlers in action or play in the candle crafting room –affordable fun for the whole family. www.richhillcandles.com
Back Country Paint Ball
Back Country Paintball offers everyone the opportunity to challenge themselves in a safe, fun, and dynamic environment. Open year round with a selection of playing fields and loads of bunkers. Let us host your party. www.backcountrypaintball.com
Maple Valley Ranch
Escape to the peace and quiet of our beautiful ranch. We offer ½ hour and 1 hour trail rides. www.maplevalleyranch.com
Lake of Bays Dorset Fire Tower
This former forest fire lookout offers a 310-mile viewing radius. Climb the 128 steps to the majestic view 465 feet above Lake of Bays. One of the best places in Muskoka to view the fall colours! Located in Dorset.
Great Country Stores
The Lake of Bays area has some wonderful country stores, antique shops and trading posts. One of our favourites is Robinson’s General Store on the main street by the bridge in Dorset – voted Canada’s best country store!
Oxtongue Rapids
A dream for artists and photographers! Park overlooks the beautiful rapids of the Oxtongue River. Picnic tables and walking trails. www.discovermuskoka.ca
SS Bigwin and Lake of Bays Marine Museum
Take a cruise on the newly restored SS Bigwin, and visit this museum operating in the building that originally housed the Lake of Bays Navigation Company at the turn of the century. At this time, Captains would sleep upstairs and the company operated and sold tickets and handled cargo from the lower level. www.ssbigwin.com
Baysville & the Baysville Dam
A popular spot for sightseers and a great area to stop, shop, relax and enjoy the day. Historical plaque at the dam commemorates the founding of the village. Take Hwy 117 and exit to Baysville.
Huntsville Muskoka Heritage Place Home of the Muskoka Pioneer Village and the the Portage Flyer steam train. Museum features rotating shows including the region’s only first nations exhibit. www.muskokaheritageplace.org
We saved you a front row seat. Colonial Bay C O TTA G E R E SO RT
H U N T S V I L L E • O N TA R I O
Colonial Bay C O TTA G E R ES OR T
A Muskoka Tradition 1.800.461.4269 cedargrove.on.ca
Relax, Renew, Reconnect 1.800.461.4232 tallyhoinn.ca
Let Us Welcome Youdays to and Muskoka Fun filled cozy stays! 1.877.635.2575 loggingchainlodge.com
Great Fall Rates 1.800.916.2008 colonialbay.com
The Norsemen Restaurant & Walker Lake Resort 1.800.565.3856 norsemen-walkerlake.com
A Muskoka Resort Since 1885 1.866.335.2236 clyffehouse.com
Quality Time Begins Here 1.800.894.1105 portcunnington.com
A Private, Eco-Friendly Resort on Beautiful Lake of Bays 1.866.919.3933 foxwoodresort.ca
No End to the Adventures Huntsville continued... Group of Seven Outdoor Gallery Walking Tour
In celebration of the Group of Seven and Tom Thomson’s contribution to our heritage, some of the best-loved paintings of the Group of Seven have been reproduced as larger than life murals in Huntsville’s Downtown business area. www.thegroupofsevenoutdoorgallery.com
Lion’s Lookout
Huntsville’s top spot offering a beautiful park and picnic area overlooking Fairy Lake and offering a breathtaking panoramic view of Huntsville. Located off Brunel Road on Park Drive behind Huntsville Centennial Centre.
Algonquin Theatre
Where Huntsville celebrates the arts year round. Featuring a wide variety of plays, musical performances and presentations. Breathtaking bronze statue of Tom Thomson located outside, created by local sculptor Brenda Wainman-Goulet. www.algonquintheatre.ca
Tree Top Trekking
Seven aerial courses located in the beautiful Muskoka Forest will bring your adventure to new heights. Some of the aerial games you can expect are bridges, tarzan swings, monkey cables, and ZIP LINES! www.treetoptrekking.com
Back Country ATVing and Jet Skis
Welcome to Back Country Tours, Ontario’s largest, most experienced outdoor adventure company. Offering the most fun at the best rates, year round. Rentals and tours for XTreme ATV snowmobiles, and jet skis. www.backcountrytours.com
Georgian Bay
Boat Cruises – a wide variety of cruise lines operate in the Georgian Bay area – a great way to see the 30,000 islands. Try the Island Queen or Midland Tours www.midlandtours.com www.islandqueencruise.com
Georgian Bay Airways
AMAZE at the natural beauty of the 30,000 Islands of Georgian Bay! Georgian Bay Airways provides many services with legendary seaplanes, including daily Sightseeing Tours over the 30,000 Islands. Try something a little different that you won’t soon forget, like a “Fly & Dine” trip to World Famous Henry’s Fish Restaurant, a fly-In Fishing day trip or even charter service. www.georgianbayairways.com
Port Severn, Honey Harbour & Georgian Bay Island National Park
Port Severn marks the point where the Trent-Severn Waterway and Gloucester Pool flow into Georgian Bay. Here you can view the Locks, circa-1910 swing bridge, several dams, waterfalls and the historic Victorian Gothic Bressette House (circa 1888). Honey Harbour is perched on Lake Huron’s Georgian Bay. From here, you can embark on a cruise or sea-kayaking trip through the 30,000 islands – a fascinating Great Lakes archipelago. From Honey Harbour you can hop on the Daytripper shuttle and head to Muskoka’s only national park, Georgian Bay Islands.
Algonquin Amazing Outfitters
Big Chute Marine Railway – Located at Lock
44 of the Trent Severn waterway, the Big Chute is an engineering marvel not to be missed. It is the only marine railway of its kind in North America still in use.
Before you set out on your wilderness adventure be sure to stop at one of the region’s terrific outfitters. The Portage Store (705 6335622), Algonquin Outfitters (1-800-469-4948) and Algonquin Bound Outfitters (1-800-704-4537)
Muskoka At Its Best Algonquin continued... Other Algonquin attractions
While in the park, be sure to explore the Algonquin Park Visitor’s Centre with its displays, art gallery, theatre, gift shop, and spectacular view; The Logging Museum; and the Algonquin Art Centre one of the top wilderness and wildlife art galleries in Canada. www.algonquinpark.on.ca
Trails
Hike it, bike it, ski it! From an easy, leisurely stroll to a rigorous, rewarding climb, Muskoka has over 40 public trails ranging in length from half a kilometre to over 40 km in length. www.discovermuskoka.ca
Heritage Walks
Most towns offer self-guided heritage walking tours. Contact the local Chamber of Commerce or visit our website. www.discovermuskoka.ca
Star Gazing
The beauty of the night sky Recognizing that light pollution of the night sky was affecting our ability to experience astronomical events, the Torrance Barrens is now a Dark Sky Reserve – the first of its kind in Canada. www.muskokaconservancy.org
...And it Just Keeps Getting Better Parks, Beaches and Boat Launches Cooling comfort on a hot summer day Muskoka is home to dozens of public parks, 35 of which are located on the shores of our gorgeous lakes or rivers, so beautiful views and cooling swims are always guaranteed. www.discovermuskoka.ca
Shopping
Fabulous finds and one of a kinds. Like the landscape that surrounds us, the shops and galleries of Muskoka beg exploring. Browse a bookstore, hunt for antiques, explore dozens of galleries, studios and workshops or do a leisurely “shop hop” on one of our charming main streets. www.discovermuskoka.ca
Field to Fork
Experience the full flavour of Muskoka. From charming roadside restaurants and Farmer’s Markets to sophisticated creations by top chefs, you’ll love the Muskoka culinary experience. www.savourmuskoka.ca
Hook, Line and Sinker
Great fish stories guaranteed whether you’re moored under a canopy of tall trees or huddled in an ice hut, Muskoka offers anglers an abundance of opportunities to reel ‘em in! Perch, pike, trout, bass and muskie beyond imagination. Walk in, paddle in or fly-in, the fishing doesn’t get any better than this! www.discovermuskoka.ca
Gravenhurst Muskoka Wharf
An Experience Beyond Your Expectations
• 106 fully equipped suites with balconies • Indoor pool, hot tub & outdoor fire pit • Walking distance to shops, restaurants • Complimentary high speed internet access and the Muskoka Wharf • 2,100 sq ft. of flexible meeting space • Complimentary hot breakfast buffet • Minutes from world class golf courses • 24 hour fitness centre • Boat rentals, over night docking available • Located on OFSC Trail C101D at Muskoka Wharf, Gravenhurst
285 Steamship Bay Road, Gravenhurst Ph: (705)
687-6600 •
Toll Free:
866-580-6238
www.marriott.com/yqari
Golfing in Muskoka 20% of Score Golf’s top 25 golf courses are in Muskoka! “Muskoka is the favourite destination of our clients, unrivalled for it’s beauty, quality of golf courses and it’s charm...it exudes a sense of well-being, rarely found anywhere else in the world.” Gary Stangoe, Across the Fairways - England
When it comes to a golfing experience, Muskoka, with its many outstanding facilities, ranks up there with the top few destinations of North America. Playing any of Muskoka’s courses is both a delightful and memorable experience. Each course offers its own uniqueness from the vistas and views that you have from elevated tee blocks to the outcropping of the granite rocks and the tree-lined lush fairways which lead to large greens with subtle breaks. What makes Muskoka different from other course destinations is the quality and quantity of courses. Muskoka has over 25 courses to challenge you, courses like Muskoka Bay Club, (which is ranked as one of Canada’s 20 best), Taboo, The Rock, Rocky Crest, Deerhurst, Bigwin, Diamond in the Ruff, South Muskoka, North Granite Ridge, Muskoka Highlands, Windermere, Huntsville Downs and Bracebridge Golf Club. The list reads like the who’s who of golf. Muskoka proudly offers first-class courses for any level of golfer.
Bigwin Island Golf and Marine Dining Room Huntsville • Semi Private • 1-800-840-4036 • www.bigwinisland.com The Bigwin Island Golf Club has been designed to capture and reflect the spirit and elegance of the original grand resort known as the “Bigwin Inn”. The sweeping fairways drape naturally over the rugged Muskoka terrain, exposing glorious lake vistas at every turn and creating a sense of timeless beauty and tranquillity.
Bracebridge Golf Club Bracebridge • 705-645-2362 • www.bracebridgegolfclub.com
Bracebridge Golf Club is in its 46th year - a 9-hole favourite with wide fairways, rolling hills, and a beautifully groomed traditional design. The course isn’t easy - just easy on the wallet. Open May 1st to November 1st.
Deerhurst Resort – Highlands Golf and Lakeside Golf Courses Huntsville • Public • 1-800-461-4393 • www.deerhurstresort.com Deerhurst Resort, where Muskoka’s reputation as a must play Canadian golf destination was born. 36 meticulously groomed holes on two courses weave through the rugged Muskoka landscape providing rewarding and challenging play for golfers of all skill levels. Deerhurst Lakeside is considered one of Ontario’s hidden gems with breathtaking views and strategic hazards all throughout the challenging layout. But it is the Deerhurst Highlands championship course that put Muskoka on the Canadian golf map. With dramatic elevation shifts, iconic granite outcroppings and dense woods and stunning scenery. Deerhurst has everything you need for a memorable golf experience.
Muskoka Bay Club Gravenhurst • Semi Private • 705-687-7900 • www.muskokabayclub.com Golf this good gets into your blood. Your pulse quickens as you recall the dramatic elevation changes, the sweeping views. The shots that soar across a pristine landscape over wetlands and granite outcroppings, past towering oaks and pines, to land safely on the rolling, manicured greens.
Golfing in Muskoka Muskoka Highlands The Rock Minett • 705-765-7625 • www.therockgolf.com The Rock Golf Club, designed by legendary golfer Nick Faldo, has been artfully sculpted on the shores of one of Muskoka’s premier lakes, Lake Rosseau. Utilizing the site’s dynamic topography, the 6545-yard course is carved tight with narrow tree-lined fairways and sloping greens that wind through rock outcroppings, hardwood trees and rolling hills.
Windermere Golf and Country Club
Bracebridge • 705-646-1060 • www.muskokahighlands.com Muskoka Highlands is the answer to affordable quality golf - some of the best bent grass greens and tees in Muskoka, wide fairways guarded by long gorse grass. Muskoka’s ‘Wee Touch of Scotland’ is the region’s only “Canadian Top 10” Future Links Facility with programs to suit the novice or expert.
South Muskoka Curling and Golf Club
Windermere • 1-888-464-4414 • www.windermeregolf.ca A scenic, challenging but playable course set in the heart of the Muskoka vacation country. A combination of 14 ponds and tree-lined fairways will keep you on your toes throughout your round. The excellent irrigated course and layout presents a great test of golf. The greens are excellent and the walking is easy. Accessible by boat from Lake Rosseau, Windermere Golf & Country Club is truly one of Muskoka’s finest courses. Windermere, ON
Bracebridge • 705-645-4221 • www.southmuskoka.com Known as “The Best Golf Value in Muskoka”, this is a classic course with a hall of fame design (Robbie Robinson) and a down-to-earth fee structure that will leave extra money in your budget for other great Muskoka attractions. Lush, rolling fairways lined by huge pines, maples, and granite out-croppings lead to large greens with subtle breaks that can be very difficult to read. The Club is semi-private and reserves one third of its daily tee times for public players. Larger groups are welcomed and unlimited advance booking can be arranged when necessary.
Taboo Muskoka
Diamond in the Ruff
Gravenhurst • 705-687-2233 • www.taboomuskoka.com Known for its meticulous greens and fairways, outstanding practice facilities and private club like atmosphere, Taboo is one of Canada’s top courses. This must play golf course is for enthusiasts of all kinds with 4 tee decks per hole for a total of 5200-7400 yards to suit all skill levels. Carefully and deliberately carved out of the beautiful Muskoka shield to best focus on its most prominent attributes of tall white pines, mature red oaks and granite rock outcroppings, Taboo winds through 300 acres of scenic land. This is one course that you will not soon forget.
Utterson • 705-385-2222 • www.diamondintheruff.ca This 9 hole jewel is located in the heart of Muskoka, just 25 minutes from Bracebridge, Huntsville and Port Carling. Included by the Toronto Star as one of “Muskoka’s Group of Seven Picture-Perfect Courses”, this gem could be the highlight of any vacation while passing through Muskoka. Designed with bentgrass tees, greens and fairways and featuring extraordinary gardens, this course is as visually impressive as it is challenging. Dine indoors or on the patio of our fully licensed clubhouse. On site accommodations are also available for your holidays throughout the year.
Golfing in Muskoka The Sands Gravenhurst • 705-687-7007 • www.taboomuskoka.com Situated just off the shores of Lake Muskoka, “The Sands” (a Stanley Thompson course design) winds its way through the mature pines of Muskoka, providing spectacular views and challenging golf. The ideal course to take in a quick 9 holes, guests can also enjoy The Sands patio for a nice, relaxing lunch.
Sherwood Inn Rocky Crest Guest Golf Courses • Grandview • Lake Joseph Club • Rocky Crest Lake Joseph Club - When it opened in 1997, The Lake Joseph Club caused jaws to drop around the golf world. Architect Thomas McBroom utilized the granite crags, towering trees and heaving topography of the incomparable Muskoka vacation region north of Toronto with such success that the course was named the best new course in the country by Golf Digest. Rocky Crest Golf – Rocky Crest Golf Club celebrates the natural features of the Canadian Shield in Ontario’s Muskoka region and was designed by Thomas McBroom. The seamless routing, views, marshes and abundant wildlife enhance a memorable golf course that has received rave reviews since it opened in May 2000. Grandview Golf Course Co-designed by PGA Tour veteran Mark O’Meara and renowned course architect Brit Stenson, the Mark O’Meara Course at Grandview opened in 2001. The course is aptly named as it exudes grandness from the moment you arrive.
Huntsville Downs Golf and Country Club Huntsville • 705-789-1000 • www.golfhuntsvilledowns.ca
Eighteen superb holes set in magnificent Muskoka scenery. Practice facilities, dining lounge, LLBO, snack bar, private and corporate tournaments. A Par 72, 6270 yard course architecturally designed to excite and challenge the most discerning golfer. “Experience the Magic of Muskoka”.
North Granite Ridge Port Sydney • 705-385-0808 • www.northgraniteridge.com Discover a golf course that rewards all players, regardless of their score. Nestled amidst mature Muskoka forests and spectacular granite outcroppings, North Granite Ridge Golf Course was designed to provide “a natural challenge” for all golf enthusiasts. The layout is very playable and much of the natural terrain has been incorporated into the design. Features include sculpted greens and bunkers, rolling fairways, elevated tee decks and stunning views. This 18-hole course creates excitement from the first tee to the last shot. Experience golf - Experience nature - Experience North Granite Ridge!
Winter Fun Winter Wonderland
When the snow flies in Muskoka, the region turns into a winter wonderland. Whether you are looking for winter activities for the kids, the family, or just you and your better half, you are going to love the multitude of outdoor winter activities you can get up to in Ontario’s winter playground.
Snowmobiling
Once the snow flies in Muskoka, recreational and avid snowmobilers alike flock to Muskoka to rev their engines on some of the best snowmobile trails in Ontario. With more than 1600 kms of OFSC trails that crisscross the region, Muskoka is one of the most traversed snowmobile trail networks in Ontario. Many resorts even offer snowmobile packages as well as tours and introductory lessons.
Winter Trails
Winters in Muskoka bring the ideal conditions for crosscountry skiing and snowshoeing trails. Many of the parks in Muskoka offer first-class groomed trails, and a number of resorts offer snowshoeing and skiing as part of your accommodation packages. When you are all done with your winter fun on the trails, you can kick back and relax by the fire at one of Muskoka’s cozy accommodations. Click here for more info
Click here for more info
Dog Sledding
Muskoka has a number of resorts in the area offering dog sledding packages that include overnight accommodations. Dog sledding is one of those adventures that you just need to try, so plan your winter escape and knock this thrilling experience off your bucket list. Click here for more info
Downhill Skiing
Hidden Valley Highlands Ski Area is a favourite among skiiers of all skill levels, with eleven runs, a terrain park, kids camps, childcare, as well as ski & snowboard instruction and rentals. With a number of resorts that offer ski and stay packages nearby, it is the perfect ski resort your next getaway. Click here for more info
Something a ‘lil Different
Muskoka is Ontario’s winter playground, with dozens of winter activities for you to enjoy in one of the province’s most surreal settings. This winter, you can try your hand at an adventure that is a little bit off the beaten path, such as: • Arrowhead Skating Trail • Ice fishing • Winter trail rides and sleigh rides • Pond hockey and ice skating Click here for more info
Calendar of Festivals & Events DID YOU KNOW: The first white man to have a BBQ in Muskoka was Samuel de Champlain in 1615 on the shores of Georgian Bay.
MARCH 2015
JUNE 2015
March 27-29 Spring Members Show Muskoka Arts & Crafts Bracebridge www.muskokaartsandcrafts.com
June 6 Port Sydney Wide Garage Sale www.portsydneycofc.com
June 27-28 TORC Boat Races Rotary Gull Lake Park Gravenhurst www.torc.ca
June 13 Huntsville Half: Band on the Run www.bandontherun.ca
June 27 Honey Harbour Canada Day Festival 9am to 2pm
APRIL 2015
June 19-21 All Our Relations Glen Orchard Public School www.muskokachautauqua.com
June 26 & 27 Spring into Summer Art Crawl Key locations around Gravenhurst www.gravenhurstbia.com
April 24-26 Muskoka Home and Cottage Show Bracebridge Memorial Arena www.muskokabuilders.com
June 20 Live It Getaway Huntsville www.huntsvilleadventures.com
June 27-28 Bala Craft and Gift Fair www.balacraftandgiftfair.com
MAY 2015
June 20 22nd Annual Gravenhurst Car Show www.gravenhurstchamber.com
March 19-22 6th Annual Muskoka Carving Event Gravenhurst www.backyardstuff.net
May 6 Spring Fashion Show Gravenhurst BIA www.gravenhurstbia.com May 9 Walking in My Mothers Shoes JW Marriott, Minett – 7pm-10pm www.muskokachautauqua.ca May 16 Muskoka Heritage Place Opening Day Huntsville www.muskokaheritageplace.org May 16 Muskoka Lakes Museum Opening Day 10am - 4pm, Port Carling www.mlmuseum.com/special-events May 23 10th Annual Spin the Lakes Tour Huntsville www.bikemuskoka.ca May Huntsville Festival’s May Marche www.huntsvillefestival.on.ca
June 20 Santa’s Village Season Opening Day Bracebridge www.santasvillage.ca June 21 Father’s Day Car Show Bracebridge 9am-3pm www.downtownbracebridge.com June 21 Father’s Day Cruise Lady Muskoka Bracebridge www.ladymuskoka.com June 21 Father’s Day Cruise Muskoka Steamships Gravenhurst www.realmuskoka.com June 28 Flavours of Muskoka Chautauqua JW Marriott, Minett, 6pm-9pm www.muskokachautauqua.com
June 27-28 Bala Antique and Nostalgia Show
JULY 2015 July, Thursdays Walking Tours of Port Carling – 7pm www.mlmuseum.com/special-events July-Wednesdays Lecture Series – 7pm Muskoka Lakes Museum www.mlmuseum.com/special-events July 2015 Kaleidoscope Summer Arts Camp www.muskokachautauqua.com Mid July Under the Canopy – Animals of the Rainforest Muskoka Boat and Heritage Centre 285 Steamship Bay Rd Gravenhurst www.realmuskoka.com July Noah’s Ark-Fridays Starting July 19 – 10:30am to 11:30am Pirate Cruise – Sundays Starting July 19 – 9:30am -11:30 am www.realmuskoka.com
Calendar of Festivals & Events DID YOU KNOW: one of Canada’s first airlines was owned by Billy Bishop and Billy Baker. It flew from Toronto to the lakes of Muskoka.
SUMMER 2015 Huntsville Festival’s 23rd Season www.huntsvillefestival.on.ca July Fridays with Kenny Munshaw Starting July 17 6pm-9:30pm Muskoka Wharf, Gravenhurst www.realmuskoka.com July 1 Celebrate Canada! Strawberry Social and Steam-up Day – Huntsville www.muskokaheritageplace.org Canada Day Celebrations Starting at 4pm – Bracebridge Along Manitoba St. www.downtownbracebridge.com Canada Day Fireworks – Bracebridge Bay www.bracebridgefireworks.com Canada Day Celebrations JW Marriott/Clevelands House – Minett 5pm-7pm & 10pm-11pm www.muskokachautauqua.com Canada Day Celebrations Town of Huntsville www.huntsville.ca Canada Day Quiz Muskoka Lakes Museum Port Carling www.mlmuseum.com Canada Day Cruise Lady Muskoka, Bracebridge www.ladymuskoka.com July 3 Butter Tart Festival Muskoka Lakes Museum – Port Carling www.mlmuseum.com July 4 Fireworks at Walkers Point Marina Rain date July 5th Gravenhurst www.walkerspointmarina.com
July 4 Canada Day Fireworks Cruise Rain date July 5th – Sunset Cruises Port Carling www.sunsetcruises.ca July 4 Children’s Art Splash Huntsville, Noon-3pm www.huntsvillefestival.on.ca July 4 Rotary Dockfest Huntsville www.huntsvilleadventures.com July 5 IRONMAN 70.3 Muskoka Huntsville www.ironmanmuskoka.com July 11 Baysville Surf n’ Turf – Baysville www.baysvilleriverfront.ca/surfandturf.html July 11 Antique and Classic Boat Show Gravenhurst www.acbs.ca July 11 Make a Splash – Gravenhurst www.gravenhurstbia.com July 10-12 Muskoka Pioneer Power Show – Bracebridge www.bracebridgechamber.com/mppa July 11 Nuit Blanche North – Huntsville www.edgeofthewoodstheatre.com July 17 Midnight Madness – Downtown Huntsville www.huntsvilleadventures.com/cultural-events July 17-19 Muskoka Arts & Crafts 53rd Summer Show Annie Williams Memorial Park, Bracebridge www.muskokaartsandcrafts.com
July 18-August 9 The Artful Garden Open Daily 10am to 5pm www.theartfulgarden.ca July 18 Peerless II Birthday Cruise – Port Carling Sunset Cruises www.sunsetcruises.ca July 19 Lake Rosseau Cruise – Sunset Cruises Port Carling Locks www.sunsetcruises.ca July 19 Jazz in the Garden – Huntsville, 1pm - 3pm www.huntsvillefestival.on.ca July 25 Baysville Walkabout Fest Over 120 Arts & Crafts vendors. www.baysvillewalkabout.com July 25 “Frozen Cruise” with the Ice Queen & Snow Princess – 11am -12:30pm Muskoka Wharf Gravenhurst www.realmuskoka.com July 30 En Plein Air – Huntsville www.huntsvillefestival.on.ca July 25 Loggers Day at Logging Museum km 55 Algonquin Park www.algonquinpark.on.ca July 24 Everything Anne Day Bala’s Museum @ 1:30pm www.bala.net/museum July 24-26 Muskoka Ribfest Muskoka Wharf, Gravenhurst www.muskokashows.com July 24-26 Muskoka In-Water Boat and Cottage Show Muskoka Wharf, Gravenhurst www.muskokashows.com
Calendar of Festivals & Events DID YOU KNOW: In the early 1900’s, trains arrived at Gravenhurst Wharf three times a day from Toronto to meet the fleet of steamships. July 25-26 Muskoka Escapades of Town Crying Bracebridge www.towncrier.on.ca/blog July 25-26 SantaFest Parade and Activities www.downtownbracebridge.com July 26 The Wakami Wailers Concert 7 pm Outdoor Theatre at 35.4 km Algonquin Park www.algonquinpark.on.ca July 30 Meet the Researchers Day Algonquin Park at East Beach km 34 www.algonquinpark.on.ca July 30 Huntsville Jazz Festival www.huntsvillefestival.on.ca July 31 Midnight Madness Bracebridge – 6pm to Midnight www.downtownbracebridge.com
AUGUST 2015 Mid August Under the Canopy – Animals of the Rainforest Muskoka Boat & Heritage Centre 285 Steamship Bay Rd Gravenhurst www.realmuskoka.com August - Thursdays Potential Public Wolf Howls Algonquin Park www.algonquinpark.on.ca August - Thursdays Walking Tours of Port Carling – 7pm www.mlmuseum.com/special-events August - Wednesdays Lecture Series – 7pm Muskoka Lakes Museum Port Carling www.mlmuseum.com/special-events
August Noah’s Ark – Fridays until August 14 10:30am – 11:30am www.realmuskoka.com August Pirate Cruise –Sundays Until August 16 9:30am-11:30am www.realmuskoka.com August Fridays with Kenny Munshaw Until August 21, 6pm-9:30pm Muskoka Wharf, Gravenhurst www.realmuskoka.com August 2015 Kaleidoscope Summer Arts Camp www.muskokachautauqua.com August 1 Rosseau Classic Cars and Boat Show Rosseau Park August 1 Boat Cruises during Rosseau Classic Cars & Boats www.sunsetcruises.ca July 31 - August 2 MacTier Big Weekend www.bigweekendfestival.com August 1 Muskoka Beer Festival Bracebridge www.muskokabeerfestival.ca August Long Weekend Stephenson Lions Duck Race – Port Sydney www.portsydneycofc.com August 2 4th Annual 100 Mile Challenge BBQ Algonquin Park www.arowhonpines.ca August 8-9 Baysville Arts and Crafts Festival www.baysvilleriverfront.ca/artscraft.html
August 15 Honey Harbour Jazz Festival Concert in the Park 12pm-3pm August 8-9 Muskoka Model Railway Show J.D. Lang Activity Park, Bracebridge www.muskokamodelrailwayclub.org August 11 Artifact or Fiction Muskoka Lakes Museum – Port Carling www.mlmuseum.com/special-events August 14-16 23rd Dockside Festival of the Arts Gravenhurst www.gravenhurstchamber.com August 14-22 ChautauquaFest New Nine Day Feature Festival www.muskokachautauqua.com August 13 Family Fun Day Muskoka Lakes Public Library – 1pm to 3pm www.muskokachautauqua.com August 17 Grand Muskoka Cottage Tour 10am-7pm – Muskoka Wharf, Gravenhurst www.realmuskoka.ca August 21-22 Reading Circle & Chautauqua on the Edge www.muskokachautauqua.com August 21-23 32nd Annual Bracebridge Antique Sale Bracebridge Fairgrounds August 15-16 Artists of the Limberlost Studio Weekend www.artistsofthelimberlost.ca August 15 Summer Sidewalk Sale – Huntsville www.huntsvilleadventures.com/cultural-events August 16 The Good Brothers – Music on the Barge Gravenhurst – 7pm-9pm
Calendar of Festivals & Events DID YOU KNOW: During WWII, Norwegian pilots in exile trained at the Gravenhurst Airport, referred to at the time as ‘Little Norway’. August 17-21 Kaleidoscope Summer Arts Camp Finale Clevelands House, Minett www.muskokachautauqua.com
September 25-27 Culture Days Muskoka Lakes Museum, Port Carling www.mlmuseum.com
October 17 Bala’s Museum CRAN-ANNE Contest Registration 1:30pm / Judging 2pm www.bala.net/museum
August 17-20 Opera Muskoka www.muskokachautauqua.com
TBA Culture Days Huntsville www.huntsville.ca
August 14-15 Bracebridge Highland Games www.bracebridgehighlandgames.com
September 26-27 Muskoka Autumn Studio Tour www.muskokastudiotour.com
October 31 Let the Spirits Rise Uptown Gravenhurst www.gravenhurstbia.com
August 14 Cottage County Comedy Festival Various Venues www.cottagecomedy.com
September 26 Colourfest Manitoba Street, Bracebridge www.downtownbracebridge.com
August 21 Toronto Allstar Big Band Opera Muskoka www.muskokachautauqua.com
September 25-27 Huntsville Fall Fair www.huntvilleadventures.com
August 22 “Frozen Cruise” with the Ice Queen & Snow Princess 11am -12:30pm Muskoka Wharf Gravenhurst www.realmuskoka.com August 30 Ironman Muskoka Huntsville www.ironman.com
SEPTEMBER 2015 September 12 Severn Bridge Fall Fair http://severnfair.org September 12 Muskoka Fall Classic Rowing Rotary Gull Lake Park, Gravenhurst www.severnriverrowingclub.com September 12 Classic Car Show Huntsville www.downtownhuntsvilleadventures.com September 18-20 Bracebridge Fall Fair
OCTOBER 2015 October 3 Local Colours Bethune House, Gravenhurst www.muskokachautauqua.com October 3-4 Muskoka Autumn Studio Tour www.muskokastudiotour.com October 3-4 Bala Craft and Gift Fair www.balacraftandgiftfair.com October 3-4 Bala Antique and Nostalgia Show Sale October 10 Thanksgiving Open House Muskoka Lakes Museum, Port Carling www.mlmuseum.com October 12 Thanksgiving Day Cruise Monday, Muskoka Wharf Gravenhurst www.realmuskoka.com October 16-18 Bala Cranberry Festival www.balacranberryfestival.on.ca
October 31 26th Annual Great Pumpkin Trail Muskoka Heritage Place – Huntsville www.muskokaheritageplace.org
NOVEMBER 2015 November 7 Muskoka Lakes Christmas Market Port Carling www.muskokalakeschamber.com November 13-15 Girlfriends’ Getaway Weekend – Huntsville www.huntsvilleadventures.com November 14 Bala Santa Claus Parade www.muskokalakeschamber.com November 19 Community Christmas Tree Lighting Port Sydney www.portsydneycofc.com November 21-22 35th Annual Christmas Show and Sale Bracebridge Sportsplex www.muskokaartsandcrafts.com November 21 Port Carling Santa Claus Parade November 27 Black Friday / Community Christmas Kick off Gravenhurst www.gravenhurstbia.com November 27 Huntsville Santa Claus Parade www.huntsvilleadventures.com
Calendar of Festivals & Events DID YOU KNOW: In 1917, Group of Seven artist Tom Thomson died
mysteriously in Algonquin Park. Foul play was suspected, but never proven. November 27 Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Bala Community Centre www.muskokalakeschamber.ca
December 31 New Years Eve Fireworks Huntsville www.skihiddenvalley.on.ca
Port Carling Farmers’ Market Hanna Park on Bailey Street Thursday’s until August 27th 9am-2pm www.portcarlingfarmersmarket.com
November 28 Gravenhurst Santa Claus Parade www.gravenhurstchamber.com
FARMERS’ MARKETS
WATERSKI SHOWS
May 20 to October 7 Gravenhurst Farmers’ Market Muskoka Wharf – Wednesday 9am – 2pm www.gravenhurstfarmersmarket.com
Monday’s: Clevelands House Resort, Minett Tuesday’s: Windsor Park, Bala Wednesday’s: Boston Pizza, Gravenhurst Thursday’s: Bayview Wildwood Resort, Sparrow Lake Show times: 7:30 pm to 8:30pm www.summerwatersports.com
DECEMBER 2015 December 4 Santa’s Moonlight Shopping Party Featuring the Festival of the Lights Bracebridge www.downtownbracebridge.com December 5 Bala’s Trek to Bethlehem December 6 Rotary Bracebridge Santa Claus Parade www.bracebridgesantaparade.com December 11 Muskoka Chautauqua Homegrown Christmas JW Marriott, Minett www.muskokachautauqua.com December 13 Baysville Santa Claus Parade The only parade that goes around twice December 19 Portage Flyer Christmas Huntsville www.muskokaheritageplace.org December 24 Christmas Eve Torch Light Parade Huntsville www.skihiddenvalley.on.ca December 19-22 SantaFest, Santa’s Village Bracebridge www.santasvillage.ca December 27 SantaFest Santa’s Village, Bracebridge www.santasvillage.ca
May 16 to October 10 Bracebridge Farmers’ Market Memorial Park, – Saturday 8:30am – 1pm www.rosseaumarket.com May 21 to October 19 Huntsville Farmers’ Market Canadian Tire – Thursday 9am – 2pm www.rosseaumarket.com June 13 to October 10 Huntsville -100km Market Saturdays, 9am-1pm West St. S, beside Pharmasave June 26 to August 28 The Rosseau Market At the waterfront – Friday 9am – 2pm www.rosseaumarket.com June 22 to August 31 Bala’s Farmers’ Market Precambrian Shield Parking lot. Monday’s until Sept 1st www.balafarmersmarket.com June 23 to September 8 Dwight Farmers’ Market 1009 Dwight Beach Rd. Tuesdays 9am – 1 pm www.dwightfarmersmarket.ca June 26 to August 28 Baysville Farmers’ Market Baysville Corner Store, Friday afternoons www.baysvillefarmersmarket.com June 25 to August 27
discovermuskoka.ca For more events and further details
Take a Tour of Muskoka M U S K O K A’ S R U G G E D C O A S T ∆ B I G C H U T E & G E O R G I A N B AY
Muskoka Driving Day Trips Design your own tour or use one of ours! Muskoka Tourism offers six great driving tours on its free Muskoka Map.
START & EN D @ PORT SEVERN . DURATION : Approx 1 - 2 hr s
MUSKOKA MAP www.discovermuskoka.ca 1.800.267.9700
Call Muskoka Tourism at 1-800-267-9700 For an interactive map visit our website www.discovermuskoka.ca
• From Port Severn, travel north on HWY 400 to Exit 162 • At Exit 162 take Muskoka Road 34 east to Big Chute, and watch the Marine Railway in action • Return on Muskoka Road 34, cross HWY 400 and continue west on Muskoka Road 48 to Muskoka Road 5 • Right on Muskoka Road 5 to Honey Harbour • Return down Muskoka Road 5 to Port Severn
U N F O R G E T TA B L E S H O R E L I N E S ∆ L A K E O F B AY S C I R C L E T O U R
START & EN D AT BAYSVILLE. DURATION : Approx 1. 5- 3 hr s
• Follow Muskoka Road 117 east from Baysville to Dorset (don’t forget to detour along Old HWY 117 to Norway Point where you can make arrangements for a water taxi to Bigwin Island) • Left onto HWY 35 in Dorset to HWY 60 • Left onto HWY 60, through Dwight to Muskoka Road 9 • Left onto Muskoka Road 9 to Muskoka Road 2
T O U C H T H E PA S T, E M B R A C E T H E F U T U R E & D I S C O V E R T R U E N AT U R E ∆ C H A I N O F L A K E S
TOUR
S TAR T & E N D @ HUN T S V I L L E . DUR AT I ON : Ap p r o x 2 - 4 h o u r s
T H E G AT E W AY T O M U S K O K A A N D B E Y O N D ∆ LAKE MUSKOKA CIRCLE TOUR
START & END @ GR AV ENHUR S T. DUR AT I ON: A p p r o x 1 . 5 - 3 h rs
• From Gravenhurst, follow Muskoka Road 169 to Bala and Glen Orchard and on to Muskoka Road 118 • Right on Muskoka Road 118 out of Port Carling and on through the Huckleberry Rock to Bracebridge (A nice detour take Milford Bay Road and stop at the parking lot for Huckleberry Rock Lookout Trail. Take a hike out to marvel at the km-long man-made canyon that 118 winds through) • Follow Muskoka Road 118 to Muskoka Road 17 • Right on Muskoka Road 17 past Muskoka Beach and back into Gravenhurst
• In Huntsville take Main Street west across HWY 11 and folllow Muskoka Road 3 to Muskoka Road 45 • Right on Muskoka Road 45 to Muskoka Road 2 • Right on Muskoka Road 2, following it back through Huntsville on Brunel Road and south to Muskoka Road 10 • Right on Muskoka Road 10, through Port Sydney and out to HWY 11 • North on HWY 11 to HWY 60 • East on HWY 60 to Muskoka Road 9 • Right on Muskoka Road 9 to Muskoka Road 23 – A nice detour: keep going straight on HWY 60 instead of turning at Muskoka Road 9 – it will take you to Dwight and then on to the Western gates of Algonquin Park – take some time to explore Canada’s oldest provincial park! Upon your return along HWY 60, turn left at Muskoka Road 9 • Right on Muskoka Road 23 back to HWY 60 • Left on to HWY 60 back to Huntsville
FROM THE HEART OF MUSKOKA M U S K O K A’ S P L AY G R O U N D ∆ LAKE ROSSEAU CIRCLE TOUR
START & END @ P OR T C A R L I NG . D U R AT I O N: Ap p r o x 1 . 5 - 2 . 5 hrs
• Take Muskoka Road 118 out of Port Carling east to Muskoka Road 25 (Brackenrig Road) • Left on Muskoka Road 25 to Muskoka Road 4 • Left on Muskoka Road 4 to Muskoka Road 24 (make sure to detour into Windermere first!) • Left on Muskoka Road 24 to Ullswater on HWY 141 • Left on HWY 141 to Rosseau • In Rosseau, take HWY 632 through Minnett and Port Sandfield back to 118 • Left on Muskoka Road 118 to Port Carling
∆ THE GRAND TOUR
S TAR T & E N D @ BR AC E BR I DGE . DUR AT I ON : Ap p r o x 4- 6 h o u r s
• From Bracebridge follow HWY 11 north to Muskoka Road 117 • Take Muskoka Road 117 east through Baysville to Dorset • Left on HWY 35 in Dorset to HWY 60 • Left on HWY 60 through Dwight and Huntsville to HWY 11 • South on HWY 11 to HWY 141 • West on HWY 141 through Utterson and Rosseau to HWY 69 • South on HWY 69 to Muskoka Road 169 • Follow Muskoka Road 169 through Bala to Muskoka Road 41 (Bethune Drive) in Gravenhurst • Left on Bethune Drive to HWY 11 • Take HWY 11 north back to Bracebridge