Beauty and Adventure Meet in Gravenhurst, Ontario

Beauty and Adventure Meet in Gravenhurst, Ontario

It's impossible not to fall in love with Gravenhurst's natural beauty and unique attractions. Filled with historical significance, this town is bursting with plenty of trendy, photo-worthy stops for you to explore!

Start your morning by grabbing some fresh doughnuts and apple fritters at The Bakery and then hit the trails and waterways. Choose a peaceful stroll on the Leo Heritage Trail or challenge yourself with a rugged hike on Cooper’s Falls Trail. Want to kick it up a gear? Grab your bike and experience the trails from two wheels. Or grab a canoe, kayak or SUP and paddle along streams, rivers and lakes to see Muskoka from the water. Visiting this fall or winter? Our trails are stunning in all seasons! Revel in the display of fall colours or take in the sights and sounds of a winter wonderland on snowshoes or by snowmobile.

Spend the afternoon discovering the unique history of Gravenhurst’s boat building and steamship industry at the Muskoka Steamships & Discovery Centre—with three new exhibits celebrating Indigenous culture, Muskoka’s history, and sustainability for the future. While you’re in town, you should also pay a visit to the Bethune House National Historic Site, the birthplace of Canada’s famed Dr. Norman Bethune. Or, for the true history buff, head to the remains of Camp 20—a German prisoner-of-war camp that operated in the early 1940s. Now home to beautiful Ungerman Gateway Park and Lorne Street Beach, you’ll see why some prisoners described their time here as a vacation!

After working up an appetite hitting these major stops, you won’t want to pass up The Oar Restaurant, a local landmark featuring all the best flavours that Muskoka has to offer. Then, relax at Muskoka Bay Resort with their on-site spa or delectable dining at The Cliffside Restaurant. Before you call it a day, be sure to catch a show at the must-see Gravenhurst Opera House. Built in 1901, this beautiful venue is the cultural centre of the town, offering year-round concerts, live theatre, comedy and more!

If your idea of adventure moves at a slower pace, Gravenhurst will not disappoint! Immerse yourself in the arts while taking in the fabulous natural beauty of this quaint town. Visit Arts at the Albion, featuring the diverse work of over 20 local artisans. Or, if you’re into creating your own works of art, check out the nearby Rock Paper Scissors Company to make your custom décor.

The Muskoka Wharf is an absolute must-do when you visit Gravenhurst. Wander the boardwalk and find eclectic art, jewelry, and home décor at the Shipyards Muskoka Marketplace and don’t miss the Shops on the Boardwalk—these fun pop-up shops offer art, antiques, and unique gifts. How about a foodie experience with tasty treats and insta-worthy moments?

Enjoy high tea at the oh-socharming Blue Willow Tea Shop overlooking Lake Muskoka with an excellent view of the RMS Segwun and Wenonah II steamships. When it’s time to stretch your legs, head to the Peninsula Trail and meander along this short trail offering stunning views of Lake Muskoka.

Finally, a stop at the Sawdust City Brewery is a requirement for beer aficionados—and anyone looking to take a selfie with the World’s Largest Muskoka Chair, located right here in Gravenhurst!

Learn more and plan your visit at Gravenhurst.ca/ChooseYourOwnAdventure