2017 huron county tourism guide

COUNTY

A VISITORS GUIDE TO

ONTARIO’S WEST COAST

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CONTENTS Welcome 4 Bayfield 5 Blyth 6 Clinton 7 Exeter 8 Goderich 9 Seaforth 10 Wingham 11 Where to Stay 12 Where to Eat 13 Theatre 14 Museums 15-17 Outdoor Attractions 18-19 Raceways and Gaming 20 2017 International Plowing Match 21 Beaches and Marinas 22-23 Outdoor Recreation 24 - 25 Shopping 26-27 Eat Local 28-29 Drink Local 30-31 2017 Events 32-33 Huron County Map 34-35

1-888-524-8394 ext. 3242 Local phone: 519-524-8394 ext. 3242 email: tourism@huroncounty.ca

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FROM COUNTRYSIDE TO COASTLINE, HURON COUNTY IS PROUDLY RURAL AND READY TO SHARE IT WITH YOU! For a full directory of places to stay, eat, shop and up-to-date listings of activities, attractions and events visit us online at:

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WELCOME TO HURON COUNTY With our unique mix of urban conveniences, rural charm, natural beauty, and cultural offerings, Huron County is a destination that will keep you coming back for more. Whether you want to relax on the shore of a great lake, sample fresh locallygrown foods, visit one of the many museums and attractions, experience world-class theatre, explore the great outdoors, or shop the many antique and specialty shops, Huron County offers endless possibilities.

You’ll find all nine of our municipalities eager to share their signature visitor experiences with you. While they each have their own distinct activities, stories and flavours the one thing they all have in common is a welcoming atmosphere that emanates from an inspiring sense of community that runs generations deep. If you’re looking for quality dining opportunities, outdoor adventure or authentic cultural experiences, you’ll find it all in our towns, villages, and countryside. For municipal contact information please see page 31.

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BAYFIELD VillageofBayfield.com

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The Village of Bayfield is a destination like no other. For starters, Bayfield’s Main Beach is one of the most popular in the region, offering drive-up access, public washrooms, and parking.

A short walk away is the largest marina on the Ontario side of Lake Huron.

Known for its boutique accommodations and metropolitan style, everything in Bayfield is only steps away. After visiting the sandy beach, take a stroll down Main Street to enjoy the many shops and artists’ studios. Whether your interest is fashion, home décor or fine art, Bayfield is home to dozens of craft retailers that will satisfy not only your needs, but your wants, too.

Hungry? You don’t have to be a foodie to appreciate Bayfield’s affordable and award-winning dining. Make a reservation though (especially between June and September) because word is out that the food here is fabulous!

Accompanied by family or friends, find a sunny patio for the afternoon and, with a glass in hand, watch the world go by in savoury slow motion.

The Little Inn of Bayfield

Since incorporation as a village in 1876, Bayfield has attracted visitors to its scenic setting. Main Street has been designated a Heritage Conservation District under the Ontario Heritage Act, ensuring the village’s charming character remains unspoiled for future generations to enjoy.

“Bobbing boats,

charming boutiques, and ringing bicycle bells make it easy to think you’re in some kind of fairytale when you’re walking through Bayfield”

from Expedia.ca

Bayfield’s Blue Flag Marina

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BLYTH BlythNow.com

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The community of Blyth was founded in 1877 and is still known to this day as a historic village thanks to the diligent care to preserve its original downtown.

Throughout the scenic village you will find a unique and diverse assortment of artisan and gift shops.

Stroll down Queen Street to feel the history and heart of Blyth. On your way, make your reservation to sample some truly fine local cuisine that includes Part II Bistro, Tripadvisor.ca’s top-rated Canadian Cuisine restaurant in Ontario for the third year in a row.

Blyth Festival Theatre

One thousand people call the village home with many more coming to see the Blyth Festival every season. The Blyth Centre for the Arts, including the Blyth Festival, was founded in 1975 to produce professional repertory theatre that reflects the culture and concerns of the people of southwestern Ontario, and beyond. Since its inception, the Blyth Festival Theatre has premiered over 100 Canadian plays, including some that have gone on to win Governor General’s Awards and a number of Chalmers Awards. Annually, the festival plays to audiences between forty and fifty thousand people.

In addition to the Blyth Festival, The Blyth Centre for the Arts includes an art gallery that showcases three professional exhibits, one non-juried community show, and co-ordinates a student exhibit each season. Choristers participate in the professionallyled Blyth Festival Singers and musicians from three counties form the Blyth Festival Orchestra. In 2013 the Blyth1419.ca initiative began, with aims to further the ever-expanding local arts community.

“The Blyth Centre for the Arts, including the Blyth Festival, was founded in 1975 to produce professional repertory theatre that reflects the culture and concerns of the people of southwestern Ontario, and beyond.”

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Sloman School Car Museum

“Head to the Clinton Raceway on Sundays through the summer for an exciting afternoon of horse racing!”

The Clinton Raceway

CLINTON CentralHuron.ca

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At the heart of Huron County lies the town of Clinton, a community in the Municipality of Central Huron.

Clinton is perhaps best known as Canada’s home of radar because of its association with RCAF Clinton and the radar training school run during the Second World War.

Another attraction of historical significance to Clinton is the School on Wheels Railcar Museum. The rail car museum sits in Sloman Memorial Park and pays tribute to Clinton native Fred Sloman and his family who spent 10 months of each year in the railcar, from 1926 to 1965, travelling through Northern Ontario to educate children living in remote communities.

Today, a large radar antenna sits in the middle of Clinton’s historic downtown honouring the significant Naturalists will enjoy exploring role the base and training school Hullet Provincial Wildlife Area, played in the war. which is a 2,200 hectare site along the South Maitland River.

The marsh provides superb opportunities to see wildlife and habitat management at its best.

Head to the Clinton Raceway on Sundays through the summer for an exciting afternoon of horse racing.

The raceway’s facilities include a 1/2 mile track, stabling for 32 horses, and paddock for 100 horses on race days. With seating in the grandstand for 1,500, the raceway’s park-like setting makes it a fun venue for the whole family.

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EXETER

ExperienceExeter.ca

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At the southern end of Huron County lies the town of Exeter, a community in the municipality of South Huron. Just a short drive north from London, Exeter provides a wonderful escape from the city to shop, dine and enjoy the outdoors.

Exeter is home to a wonderful selection of restaurants and shops where you’ll find the latest in fine dining, fashion, home decor, vehicles, tools, and so much more.

History buffs will enjoy strolling Main Street as it’s lined with beautiful 19th century Victorian-style buildings. Town Hall was built in 1887 and the “Hess Clock” – built by Zurich clocker-maker George Hess – was installed the following year. Take a step back in time and learn more about the origins of these structures through a self-guided tour found at: www.experienceexeter.ca

“Exeter is widely known as the home of the white squirrel” Visit any Exeter park and you’re likely to find a local curiosity running around - Exeter is widely known as the home of the white squirrel. The town’s mascot, “Willis” the white squirrel, can be found at many community events, including Canada Day celebrations, the Exeter Rodeo and the annual Santa Claus Parade.

Exeter’s White Squirrel

Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy hiking the South Huron Trail, which is an eight-kilometre, all-season trail that runs from MacNaughton Park in downtown Exeter and winds its way along the picturesque Ausable River out to Morrison Dam Conservation Area.

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MacNaughton Park

Ships in the Goderich Harbour

Laithwaite Legacy

GODERICH Goderich.ca

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The town of Goderich is the largest urban centre in Huron County and is world renowned for its beautiful heritage architecture, breathtaking sunsets, and unique downtown square.

Overlooking Lake Huron, Goderich is known as “The Prettiest Town in Canada”!

Nicknamed the “Prettiest Town in Canada”, Goderich sits atop the bluffs overlooking Lake Huron and features over 1.5 km of beach front boardwalk that connects three public beaches and provides plenty of stops along the way to sit and watch the sun set as lake and ocean vessels travel in and out of the harbour.

The unique octagon-shaped downtown square features a variety of shops, restaurants, and services set up around the central Courthouse Park, which houses the Huron County Courthouse.

The park is home to the Goderich Farmers’ Market, Flea Market, evening concerts, and a number of popular festivals.

The Maitland River lies on Goderich’s northern boundary and features miles of scenic hiking and biking trails.

The town is also known for its beautiful gardens and many parks as more than one quarter of the land in Goderich is dedicated to parkland.

The town has a rich and colourful history, which is celebrated in its museums, well-preserved heritage buildings, and points of historical interest found throughout the town.

Goderich Beach

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Seaforth Clock Tower

SEAFORTH HuronEast.com

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The town of Seaforth is a thriving community located in the municipality of Huron East.

trails, outdoor pool, ball diamonds, soccer fields, hockey arena, and 18hole golf course.

Seaforth’s bustling Victorian-style Main Street stands as a testament to the town’s cultural inheritance and features a modern mix of locallyowned small businesses.

Explore the area’s remarkable history at Van Egmond House, located in Egmondville, which borders the town.

This Georgian manor is one of the oldest houses in Huron County.

While shopping, take some time to admire the beautiful heritage buildings. Seaforth’s Main Street was provincially designated as a Heritage Conservation District in 1984 and is considered one of the finest late - 19th century streetscapes remaining in the Province of Ontario by architectural critics.

The Van Egmond family played a fundamental role in the opening of the Huron Tract - a one million acre parcel of land once owned by the Canada Company. Today, the house is preserved to its original splendour and provides the opportunity to step back in time to experience a glimpse of everyday life in Huron County in the mid-19th century.

The Seaforth area offers numerous recreation opportunities with nearby wildlife conservation areas, walking

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Van Egmond House

“Explore the area’s remarkable history at Van Egmond House. This Georgian manor is one of the oldest houses in Huron County.”

WINGHAM NorthHuron.ca

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Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure, historical exploration, or local shopping experiences, the town of Wingham offers a little something for everyone.

Stroll down Wingham’s heritage Main Street to admire the historic buildings while enjoying the unique, locally-owned shops and restaurants.

Located in the municipality of North Huron along the banks of the Maitland River, Wingham offers outdoor enthusiasts plenty of opportunities to get active while enjoying the natural beauty of the region.

Explore Wingham’s captivating history at the North Huron Museum, which celebrates the stories of the area from the Paleolithic era to the modern day, including information about native Nobel Prize-winning author Alice Munro.

Take advantage of the warmer months to paddle the river, picnic in the beautiful parks or golf at the local course. With trails surrounding the town for hiking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing or snowmobiling, winter provides just as many opportunities to enjoy the outdoors.

As the birthplace of Munro, the Wingham area inspired many of her short stories and her contributions to the area are celebrated with the Alice Munro Literary Garden, which is located beside the Museum. The garden is one of many spots in town where you can pause and gather inspiration of your own. The Alice Munro Festival of the Short Story takes place June 2-4, 2017.

“As the birthplace of Alice Munro, the Wingham area inspired many of her short stories” Wingham Town Hall

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Little Inn of Bayfield

Deer Park Lodge

WHERE TO STAY OntariosWestCoast.com

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Whether it’s for the night, a weekend or all season long, stay as our guest!

There are accommodations to fit every wish – from full-sized family-friendly options to intimate romantic retreats complete with four-diamond dining. Try one of our bed and breakfast accommodations, where knowledgeable hosts are eager to share insider information about shopping, dining, gallery-going and special events that will make your Huron County holiday a memorable one. There are country inns with a European flair and suites that are self-catering for those who like to cook for themselves. Find your way to a campground and RV park where you’ll enjoy full-service sites that are close to the water’s edge and a canoe or kayak experience becomes as easy as setting a boat in the water. Rental cottages and rural locations provide a private haven for the ultimate escape. Whether you’re making it a quiet couples getaway or a family outing for a few days or longer, Huron County’s accommodations offer so many choices that you’ll have reasons to come back every season of the year to experience our hospitality.

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WHERE TO EAT OntariosWestCoast.com

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Catering to all tastes, Huron County’s chefs and their kitchen staff are ready, whisk in hand, to set a fine table for your dining pleasure. We have cafés and bistros, historic hotels and pubs, as well as four-diamond dining rooms with fine tableside service. Whether you’re after the atmosphere of a historic home with gleaming woodwork or a sun-soaked patio, enjoy hot trends and haute dining or a whole lot of comfort food.

And don’t forget about dessert! Because let’s face it, you need to try our homemade pies, tarts, donuts and chocolates.

Nourish your body while feeding your soul.

Sky Ranch Drive Inn

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LIVE THEATRE There is nothing like live theatre and the experience of a one-ofa-kind performance. The summer theatre season begins in June each year and runs to early September. Spark your imagination and recharge your spirit with lively, intriguing and entertaining theatre in Huron County.

BLYTH FESTIVAL BlythFestival.com

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Blyth Festival is a professional repertory theatre that endeavours to enrich the lives of its audience by producing and developing plays that give voice to both the region and the country. After more than 40 years the theatre has created more than 120 world premieres that have traveled to theatres all over the world.

HURON COUNTRY PLAYHOUSE

DraytonEntertainment.com

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Located in a picturesque country setting just outside of Grand Bend, the Huron Country Playhouse offers the perfect spot to experience summer theatre. As a part of the Drayton Entertainment group of theatres, the main auditorium is housed in a spacious century-old barn that seats 650; the Playhouse II has been fully renovated to expand seating for 300 people.

THE LIVERY TheLivery.ca

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Located in historic downtown Goderich, The Livery Theatre is home to the Goderich Little Theatre, a non-profit community theatre group that performs outstanding theatre productions through the fall, winter and spring seasons. The theatre also hosts music events, film festivals and a variety of other community events.

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Photo of the “Goderich Bicycle Club” 1888 from the Reuben R. Sallows collection

VISIT ALL OF HURON COUNTY’S MUSEUMS Our history is very important to us and we invite you to explore it.

Huron County’s communities have a proud heritage of agriculture and industry and welcome visitors to discover this hard-won success. Our museums and cultural centres provide immersive experiences that bring our origin story to life.

Learn how it all began.

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HURON COUNTY MUSEUM HuronCountyMuseum.ca

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The Huron County Museum is always changing, and always inspiring. Permanent exhibits depict the early settlement and development of Huron County. The History Hall, with store fronts and a locomotive, allows you to stroll back in time. Temporary exhibits cover a wide spectrum of subjects of special interest.

Young people enjoy turning the handles that bring the handmade models created by Museum Founder Herbert Neill to life. An extensive Military Gallery, Furniture Gallery, and Agricultural Displays will interest and fascinate you.

110 North Street, Goderich, ON Phone: 519-524-2686, Fax: 519-524-1922

HURON COUNTY HISTORIC GAOL HuronCountyMuseum.ca

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The Huron County Historic Gaol is a unique and imposing octagonal building that served as the County Jail from its first prisoner in 1841 until 1972 when all inmates were transferred to regional facilities. The Gaol is a designated National Historic Site. The building originally housed the County Courts and Council Chambers, as well as serving as Gaol and House of Refuge. The Gaol’s architect was Thomas Young, and at the time of construction was viewed as a model of humanitarian prison design.

The Governor’s House was built in 1901 in the area of one of the courtyards, and illustrates the important status of this position within a rural Ontario community in the early part of this century. Visitors find this site a special place to explore and truly a step back in time.

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181 Victoria Street N, Goderich, ON 519-524-2686

REUBEN R. SALLOWS GALLERY www.sallowsgallery.ca Reuben R. Sallows Gallery is home to the largest public collection of this renowned photographer’s work, whose art continues to offer insight into rural Canadian lives around the turn of the 20th century.

The gallery is located on the mezzanine level of the historic Goderich Public Library.

BARN DANCE HISTORICAL SOCIETY & ENTERTAINMENT MUSEUM www.thebarndance.ca Located in the Town of Wingham, the Barn Dance Historical Society & Entertainment Museum, is a tribute to Canada’s Largest Travelling Barn Dance the longest live-radio show of its kind in the history of music and Canadian broadcasting.

NORTH HURON MUSEUM www.northhuron.ca The North Huron Museum is a community museum with special exhibits, art and innovative events. Writers are invited to practice their craft in our Alice Munro nook, overlooking the Alice Munro Literary Garden.

Those interested in family history, events, and individuals from Wingham, Turnberry Township, East Wawanosh Township, and Blyth area will find a well-appointed archives for their research. The museum also offers lectures, educational programs and the Alice Munro walking tour.

SCHOOL ON WHEELS RAILCAR MUSEUM www.centralhuron.com/ schoolcar School on Wheels Railcar Museum, is located in south Clinton’s Sloman Memorial Park.

Town native Fred Sloman and his family spent 10 months of the year in the railcar, from 1926 to 1965, in order to educate children living in remote areas of Northern Ontario. In 1982, the burned-out shell of School Railcar 15089 was located near Toronto and began the journey to its final destination, arriving in Clinton courtesy of a Canadian National Railway freight train.

Since then, it has been faithfully restored creating living history for thousands of visitors.

BAYFIELD HERITAGE CENTRE & ARCHIVES www.bayfieldhistorical.ca

the Village of Egmondville. The Van Egmond family played a fundamental role in the opening of the Huron Tract - a one-million acre parcel of land owned by the Canada Company. Colonel Van Egmond was involved with the Rebellion of 1837 in an attempt to bring responsible government to the area. He died untried in the Don Jail, Toronto.

HISTORICAL ST JOSEPH ARCHIVE & MUSEUM www.stjosephmuseum.ca The St Joseph Archive & Museum, is located at Hessenland Country Inn. Spend an afternoon and step back in time reading and learning about the great plans of Narcisse Cantin (1870-1940), “the Father of the St. Lawrence Seaway” to turn St. Joseph into a thriving international port. View pictures, articles, maps, and other original documents depicting the story of his great dream.

The Bayfield Historical Society is dedicated to recording and preserving Bayfield’s rich historical legacy for future generations. The Historical Society discovers, collects, classifies, publishes, and presents materials concerning the history of local people in their central location on Bayfield’s Heritage Main Street.

VAN EGMOND HOUSE FOUNDATION www.huroneast.com Van Egmond House was built by Constant Van Egmond and his wife Ann Johnston. This Georgian manor is one of the oldest houses in Huron County, and served as the nucleus for the growth of

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OUTDOOR ATTRACTIONS TIGER DUNLOP’S TOMB www.huroncountymuseum.ca

demolition of the C.P.R. railway bridge over the Maitland River.

The structure, the longest of its Dr. William Dunlop (1792kind when built in 1907, was last 1848) was a physician, author, used by the C.P.R. as a rail line in woodsman, soldier, politician, 1988 and now forms part of the raconteur, and one of Huron G.A.R.T. (the Goderich to Auburn County’s most colourful historical Rail Trail). figures. Born in Scotland, he served in Canada as an army Looking west from the bridge, surgeon during the War of 1812. visitors have unobstructed His writings, including articles views of the harbour, the mine, based on his residence in India and Lake Huron. To the east lie (1817-1819), won him a place magnificent views of the Maitland among the witty contributors to River Valley. Such vistas make Blackwood’s Magazine with the the bridge one of the most title of “Tiger.” In 1826, Dunlop frequently visited sites in the area emigrated to Upper Canada. As as nearly 15,000 hikers, runners, “Warden of the Forests” for the walkers, and fishers use the Canada Company, he assisted bridge on an annual basis. This John Galt in opening up the monument to the area’s history Huron Tract and in 1827 founded and its traditions in agriculture, Goderich. transportation and industry represents the interest of local The Tiger Dunlop Heritage Trail citizens who continue to preserve starts behind the elevators this impressive structure for at the Goderich Harbour. It future generations. crosses North Harbour Road to the Menesetung Bridge where there is a magnificent view of BALL’S BRIDGE the Maitland River. Beyond the THE BRIDGE THAT LOVE BUILT bridge, the trail continues to Located 4.5 km south of Auburn Tiger Dunlop’s Tomb. Informative on Little Lakes Rd. just west of history panels are on site.

Baseline Road (County Rd. #8).

Follow the signs.

MENESETUNG BRIDGE Parking for this attraction is Ball’s Bridge was built in 1885 located on North Harbour Road when a smitten engineer, working in Goderich on the bridge at the mouth of the Maitland in Goderich, fell in love In 1990, a group of local citizens with one of the Ball daughters. came together to stave off He built Ball’s Bridge so that

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she would no longer have to get her feet wet when crossing the Maitland River near her home.

Ball’s Bridge has been a part of the Maitland River landscape for over 125 years! Ball’s Bridge appears to retain an excellent degree of historic integrity. Ball’s Bridge, as a two span structure, is exceptionally rare, and stands out as a significant example among Ontario’s remaining pin-connected truss bridges.

Even the construction of the bridge back in 1885 resulted in a marriage between the bridge engineer and a member of the Ball family. Take a drive over this bridge and witness its tranquillity.

LAITHWAITE LEGACY Laithwaite Apple Park R.R.#2, 35563 Huron Rd Goderich, ON This farm near Goderich has fascinated visitors for four generations with its many sculptures fashioned from cement, metal, fieldstone, and found materials by George Laithwaite (1873-1956).

Some of his human figures were created as satirical or political commentary on world events, while others were based on comic strip characters.

Goderich Lighthouse Located on Cobourg Street in Goderich Goderich is the oldest Canadian light station on Lake Huron and first consisted of a pair of range lights built in the early 1830s.

The current square tower light house located atop the bluff was erected in 1847 using evenlycoursed stone. Though the tower stands just twenty feet tall to its lantern room, its light has a focal plane of 150 feet above Lake Huron.

Ball’s Bridge Bayfield’s Shipwreck

Goderich Lighthouse

Bayfield’s Shipwrecks Located on Bayfield’s Main Beach Bayfield has two visible shipwrecks located on the Main Beach. Learn more about the wrecks of the Linda Hindman and the Malta at the Bayfield Archives & Heritage Centre.

Menesetung Bridge

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GET IN ON THE ACTION! CLINTON RACEWAY www.clintonraceway.com Bring the whole gang to Ontario’s family track for a day of exciting harness racing. Live racing runs at 1:30 p.m. on Sunday afternoons from May - August.

GATEWAY CASINOS CLINTON www.gatewaycasinos.com

You’ll love the sights and sounds of Gateway Casinos. Step onto the lively gaming floor to experience the lights, jackpot bells and friendly people. With over 120 exciting slots like In the With a swimming pool, Money, Blazing 7’s, China Shores, skateboard park, and gaming and Texas Dice, choose your facility, Clinton Raceway caters to favourite games ranging from 1 people of all ages. cent to $1! Relax while you enjoy a snack at the Raceway Cafe.

While at the races, visit the So let the fun begin and visit history-rich Raceway Café Gateway Casinos today. located at Gateway Casinos. A huge mural depicts the past and WALTON RACEWAY present of the raceway with www.waltontranscan.ca plenty of local horse pictures www.waltonraceway.ca to bring back some old racing memories. Bring your group to Walton Raceway is home to one the races and receive great group of the longest running motocross benefits with free programs, tracks in Canada. Every August, betting vouchers and more. Live the raceway hosts The Walton entertainment, promotions, TransCan Grand National and giveaways throughout the Championship, Canada’s biggest summer make Clinton Raceway annual motocross event that your first stop for family fun. attracts more than 1,000 riders and their families from across Canada and the United States.

Walton Raceway also features

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Grand Bend Motorplex

regional motocross races, truck mud bogs, off-road motorcycle events, the Edge of Walton ropes challenge course, and so much more.

GRAND BEND MOTORPLEX www.grandbendmotorplex.ca The Grand Bend Motorplex is a multi-use motorsports facility that features Canada’s largest ¼ mile drag racing facility.

The Motorplex hosts IHRA Championship Drag Racing on its ¼ mile dragstrip as well as two competitive motorcross tracks and is home of the annual IHRA Mopar Canadian Nationals, Canada’s longest running and largest national event drag race.

Special features include concerts with some of Canada’s recording stars and an on-site motorhome area and camping compound.

The park also includes a dedicated kid’s play area, multiple washroom and shower buildings, souvenir store, and four separate concession buildings serving a variety of food.

2017 INTERNATIONAL PLOWING MATCH Huron County has the distinct honour of hosting the 100th International Plowing Match in Walton this September.

The event is going to be big! How big?

Over the five-day event, 100,000 people are expected to descend on the match and surrounding region. This presents an incredible opportunity to show off how we live, work and play in Huron County.

“Capturing imaginations and touching hearts!”

And all of this is taking place against the backdrop of Canada’s 150th birthday!

We’ll see you in Walton this September!

HURON COUNTY

International Plowing Match & Rural Expo

SEPTEMBER 19-23, 2017 Walton, Ontario www.plowingmatch.org @ internationalplowingmatchandruralexpo #HCProud 21

BEACHES AND MARINAS OntariosWestCoast.com

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With more than 100 km of shoreline running the full length of Huron County from the north at Amberley to the south at Grand Bend, people have been drawn to the county’s beaches for generations. Lake Huron’s refreshing, clear waters, popular sandy beaches, and spectacular sunsets attract visitors and residents alike to the water’s edge all year round. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing afternoon to soak up the sun or a more exciting day on the water playing water sports or paddleboarding, the county’s 16 public beaches offer countless opportunities to explore the shoreline.

The open waters of Lake Huron make it a popular destination for boaters. And if you’re looking for a safe harbour to dock your boat, there are a number of options for modern, clean marina services in both Goderich and Bayfield.

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GET OUTDOORS HikeHuron.ca AND www.g2grailtrail.com www.

East of the lakeshore there are so many outdoor adventures awaiting you. Make a memory at one of our more than 30 conservation areas, community parks and gardens, golf courses, forest trails, and wildlife areas. Enjoy the network of nature trails running throughout the county that offer yearround opportunities to hike, cycle, snowshoe, and cross-country ski, and, of course, enjoy the stunning scenery. Huron County’s hiking, cycling and fishing/ paddling brochures (available at www.hikehuron.ca) are great guides to take along with you.

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Falls Reserve

Rural Hensall

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ARTISANS ShopHuron.ca

www.

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Extreme Birdhouse, Belgrave

Pottery created by Tony Eyamie of Patina Studios in Bayfield

Hive of Bayfield

Hive of Bayfield

Whether you’re exploring downtown galleries or travelling the countryside to seek out a local artist’s studio, creative inspiration can be found across all corners of Huron County. Influenced by the gorgeous scenery and a do-it-yourself spirit that runs generations deep, Huron is home to a large number of artists and crafters who work in an equally large number of mediums.

Galleries, home studios, outdoor markets and boutique shops feature a variety of works, from fine art paintings, sculptures, photography and stained glass, to handcrafted pottery, woodwork, fibre arts, jewellery, and a little bit of everything in between. There is no better place to begin your creative journey than by savouring an afternoon exploring this great diversity of artwork at local art galleries.

local artists have home-based studios where visitors are often invited to take a step into their creative world and to learn how the Huron County landscape has inspired their work. This is a great way to connect one-on-one with the artist and to learn more about the unique styles and techniques they use in their work. There are also plenty of opportunities to explore your own creative side as local artists and crafters are always eager to share their art form or craft. You can find them demonstrating their talents at local events and festivals or leading workshops hosted at local galleries and maker shops.

Galleries can be found in the larger towns and villages throughout Huron County and feature original fine art pieces, limited edition prints, and more from local artists and from around the world. Many

Old Tyme Radio Centre, Bellgrave

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EAT LOCAL TasteofHuron.ca

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WE KNOW FOOD! Huron County is one of the most agriculturally productive counties in Ontario and a leader in numerous areas of agricultural technology and innovation. Driving through the rolling countryside between towns and villages, you’ll find a diversity of farms from large-scale operations growing for national and international markets, to small-scale farms growing for local farmers’ markets, shops, and restaurants, to Amish farmers using traditional methods to grow and sell right from the end of their laneway.

Equally as diverse is the wide variety of foods being grown and produced right in our own backyard, including corn, wheat and other grains, beans and pulses, canola, meats, eggs, milk and cheeses, vegetables, fruits, honey, maple syrup, and so much more.

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The strong relationship between producer and consumer is evident throughout the county as access to fresh, local food has never been easier. Weekly farmers’ markets and community-supported agriculture programs have grown in number in recent years, giving consumers the opportunity to directly support their local farmers. Local shops provide year-round opportunities for farmers to sell their locally-produced food products and local restaurants often feature the best foods the county has to offer on their menus.

FARMERS’ MARKETS There’s no better place to enjoy one-stop-shopping for the bounty produced right here in Huron County than at weekly farmers markets.

The outdoor markets, held in communities across the county, provide the perfect opportunity to connect directly with the growers and producers of all your favourite foods, including meats, fruits and vegetables, preserves, breads and baked goods, ready-to-eat meals, locally roasted coffee, and so much more.

These outdoor markets start in late spring and run through the fall when local harvesting is at its peak.

BAYFIELD FARMERS’ MARKET The Bayfield Farmers’ Market is hosted in Clan Gregor Square every Friday evening from 3-7 p.m., from May 19-Oct. 6.

BRUSSELS FARMERS’ MARKET The Brussels Farmers’ Market is held every Friday from 2-6 p.m. from May 19 to September 1 and can be found across from the post office in the village’s historic downtown.

DUNGANNON FARMERS’ MARKET Located at the Dungannon Fair Grounds. Open Saturdays 9 - 11:30 a.m. Victoria Day to Labour Day Weekend.

EXETER FARMERS’ MARKET Located in MacNaughton Park, open Thursday evenings, June to August 4-9 p.m. and September 4-8 p.m.

GODERICH FARMERS’ MARKET Visit Courthouse Park every Saturday from 8 a.m.

- 1 p.m. for the Goderich Farmers’ Market. The market starts Victoria Day weekend, May 20, and runs until Thanksgiving, October 7.

GODERICH MAKERS’ MARKET The Goderich Makers’ Market is a seasonal, indoor market that is held at the Huron County Museum through the winter months. The market runs weekly from November 11 to December 23, 2017, then runs the first Saturday of each month from January to April 2018.

HOWICK FARMERS’ MARKET Located outside of the Howick Community Centre at 45088 Harriston Rd., the Howick Farmers’ Market runs Saturdays, 9 a.m. - 12 noon, starting June 3 until September 30.

WINGHAM FARMERS’ MARKET The Wingham Farmers’ Market is held in Cruickshank Park every Wednesday afternoon, 2:30 p.m. - 6 p.m. from June until September.

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DRINK LOCAL These are exciting times in Huron County! The area has experienced major growth in the brewery and winery sector. Huron’s first breweries only opened in 2016, with more slated to open their doors in 2017.

Huron County is also quickly emerging as one of the province’s newest wine regions with a variety of wineries already open or opening within in the next few years.

BREWERIES Bad Apple Brewing Company www.badapplebrewingco.ca Bad Apple Brewing Company Ltd. is a licensed beer manufacturer located on Hwy. 21 between St. Joseph and Bayfield. Located on a picturesque orchard along the shores of Lake Huron, they brew small batches of a variety of beers and have the freshest cider available for making taste-budtantalizing apple beer.

Bayfield Brewing Co. www.bayfieldbrewingco.com Bayfield Brewing Co. is Bayfield’s first independent craft brewery.

It currently produces a Craft Lager and Amber Ale. Both brands are available on tap at the Ashwood Bourbon Bar, 34777 Bayfield River Road, Bayfield.

Cowbell Brewing Company www.cowbellbrewing.com Cowbell beers have been available at the LCBO and on tap at local restaurants since 2016. The Cowbell Farm, a 111acre destination brewery and working farm, is currently under construction and will be North America’s First Carbon Neutral Brewery. Located at the corner of County Roads 4 and 25, in Blyth, the brewery is expected to open in the summer of 2017.

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Half Hours on Earth Brewery www.halfhoursonearth.com Half Hours on Earth is an awardwinning, small batch brewery located in Seaforth. Opening in 2016, their primary focus is on brewing Farmhouse Ales, Lambics, Brett-Infused Trappist Ales, American Wild Ales and 100% Brett Fermentation beers found in Belgium, the United States & Canada. The brewery has a bottle shop and merchandise store, which also doubles as a pick-up location for their online bottle store.

Additionally, bottles can be purchased online and shipped directly to your home. Located at 151 Main St. S., Seaforth.

Stone House Brewing Company www.stonehousebrewing.ca This charming brewery was the first to open in the county in 2016. They brew Pilsners using top-quality ingredients under the watchful eyes of their Germantrained brewmaster. The brewery and tasting room is located at 76050 Parr Line, just north of Varna.

WINERIES Dark Horse Estate Winery www.darkhorseestatewinery.com Deep in the heart of the lush, green Huron County countryside, you’ll find Dark Horse Estate Winery, the first fully functioning estate winery in Huron County.

They specialize in producing rich, flavourful fruit-driven wines from Ontario’s classic red and white varietals. Their 31,000-squarefoot-facility is equipped with state-of-the-art winemaking technology and a guest area complete with an expansive full service banquet and conference space that can comfortably accommodate 300 guests, a wine cellar, tasting rooms, an elite VIP space, and patios overlooking the vineyards. The winery is located at 70665 B Line, Grand Bend, right next to the iconic Huron Country Playhouse.

Hessenland Country Inn www.hessenland.com

Hessenland Country Inn announced in 2015 that they were expanding in an exciting new direction with the planting Square Brew of a vineyard north of the inn on www.squarebrewco.com Highway 21 near St. Joseph. The vineyard will include a variety Square Brew is set to open in of grapes, including Marquette, Goderich in the spring of 2017 at Petit Pearl, Riesling, Chardonnay, 430 Parsons Court. The brewery Cabernet Franc, Frontenac Gris, will have a retail store and tap and Siegerrebe. They will be room and will begin by offering creating a tasting room at the inn three lagers, including a Pilsner, and expect to pour their first glass Vienna Lager and India Pale Lager. of wine in 2018.

Maelstrom Winery www.maelstromwinery.ca Maelstrom Winery began in 2009 when the Landsborough family planted a test plot of vines to see if they would survive Huron County’s cold climate. To their delight the vines not only survived but thrived and so in 2010 they planted two more acres of vines. Located at 78925 Sanctuary Line outside of Seaforth, the vineyard now has over 8 acres of grape vines and they are producing and selling a range of quality red and white wines.

COFFEE Coastal Coffee www.coastalcoffeecompany.ca The storefront for Coastal Coffee is in the quaint village of Zurich but chances are you’ll hear about Coastal Coffee no matter where you are when visiting Huron County. Coastal Coffee supports exceptional farmers of unique coffees from around the world. To produce their high quality product, Coastal Coffee roasts the coffee in small batches by expert coffee roasters.

Hessenland Country Inn

Shopbike Coffee Roasters www.shopbikecoffee.com Shopbike Coffee Roasters are located on Main Street in Bayfield. They serve fabulous coffee and like to keep it all pretty laid back and simple. In their own words, “We don’t complicate things by forcing you into the worlds of venti and macchiato. We just make great coffee.”

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2017 EVENTS

OntariosWestCoast.com

www.

Our community events calendar is jammed full of entertainment, music, food and fun! Stay up to date with what’s going on by following us on Facebook @OntariosWestCoast.

Here’s a short list of what’s happening this season to get you started.

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Alice Munro Festival of the Short Story www.alicemunrofestival.ca June 2-4, Wingham, Blyth and Goderich Huron Multicultural Festival www.creativehuron.ca June 25, Goderich Bach Music Festival of Canada www.bachfestival.ca July 6-16, Exeter Mopar Canadian Nationals - Grand Bend Motorplex www.grandbendmotorplex.ca August 4-6, Grand Bend Celtic Roots Festival www.celticfestival.ca August 11-13, Goderich Exeter Rodeo www.southhuron.ca/exeter-ram-rodeo August 11-13, Exeter TransCan Canadian Grand National Championship Motocross www.waltontranscan.ca August 16-20, Walton Zurich Bean Festival www.beanfest.ca August 26, Zurich West Coast Blues www.westcoastblues.ca September 1 – 2, Goderich Blyth Steam Show and Threshers Reunion www.blythsteamshow.on.ca September 8-10, Blyth International Plowing Match and Rural Expo www.plowingmatch.org September 19-23, Walton Belmore Maple Syrup Festival www.belmorecommunitycentre.ca April 12 -14, 2018, Belmore

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ASHFIELD COLBORNE WAWANOSH www.ACWTownship.ca 519-524-4669 BLUEWATER www.MunicipalityofBluewater.ca 519-236-4351 CENTRAL HURON www.CentralHuron.ca 519-482-3997 GODERICH wwww.Goderich.ca 519-524-6600 HOWICK www.Howick.ca 519-335-3208 HURON EAST www.HuronEast.com 519.527.0160 NORTH HURON www.NorthHuron.ca 519-357-3550 MORRIS TURNBERRY www.MorrisTurnberry.ca 519-887-6137 SOUTH HURON www.SouthHuron.ca 519-235-0310

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THIS GUIDE PROVIDED BY:

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COUNTY OF HURON 54 West Street Goderich, ON N7A 2K3 tourism@huroncounty.ca Hours: Monday - Friday 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

519-524-8394 ext. 3242