Everything You Need To Know About Collingwood, Ontario

Collingwood, Ontario is a beautiful destination located in the heart of the Georgian Bay coastline on Lake Huron. With a population of over 19,000 people, Collingwood offers excellent recreational possibilities, a vibrant cultural scene filled with shops, eateries, entertainment and stunning natural beauty. If you are planning a visit to Collingwood, here is everything you need to know.

Location and How to Get There

Collingwood is located in the Simcoe County region of Ontario, two and a half hours north of Toronto. The main ways to get there are by car, bus or train. By car, Collingwood can easily be reached from highways 400 and 26. Ontario Northland provides easy access to Collingwood via both bus and train from Union Station in Toronto.

Things To Do in Collingwood

Collingwood’s mild year-round temperatures, stunning natural beauty and excellent recreational opportunities make it a great destination for those looking to enjoy outdoor activities. Here are some of the top things to do during a visit to Collingwood:

• Scenic Caves Nature Adventures – Offers spectacular views of the area, as well as cave tours, zip-lining and more.
• Blue Mountains Zipline – A thrilling adventure above the treetops.
• Blue Mountain Village – A pedestrian village filled with shops and eateries, with plenty of activities for adults and children alike.
• Calypso Waterpark – Cool off at Canada’s largest theme waterpark.
• Georgian Trail – Take a ride or a walk along this scenic 35 km trail from Collingwood to Meaford.
• Treetop Trekking – Get a bird’s eye view on an aerial adventure course set up high in the treetops.
• Monterra Golf – Tackle this world-class golf course designed by Doug Carrick.
• Collingwood Sparkle – Enjoy the Collingwood Sparkle festival every fall with a 10 day line-up of local entertainment, fireworks, art installations and much more.

Collingwood also has an impressive cultural life that includes theatre experiences at the popular Gayety Theatre and plenty of local art galleries. With two breweries, several wineries and distilleries, foodies will find plenty to explore and enjoy.

Accommodation in Collingwood

Collingwood has a range of accommodation options for every budget. From family-friendly hotels and resorts to camping and glamping experiences, visitors will be able to find something to suit their needs. Visitors can also enjoy the outdoors and connect with nature through RV camping and log cabin rentals. Some popular places of accommodation are the Living Water Resort & Spa which offers luxury hotel suites, cabins and cottages, as well as the Seastone B&B located just minutes away from downtown.

Discover Local Food & Drink Scene

A visit to Collingwood would not be complete without sampling some of the local food & drink scene. Some of the popular spots include Nord Wood Fired Bistro which serves fresh seasonal ingredients while Red Leaves Resort offers plenty of options to keep everyone happy from s’mores and pizzas to steaks and seafood. For those looking for something more casual there are plenty of pubs and breweries in the area including Creemore Springs Brewery and Coffin Ridge Boutique Winery. For those with a sweet tooth Crombie’s Ice Cream is a must stop destination for hand made ice cream cones made with all local ingredients.

Conclusion

Collingwood is an excellent destination for both outdoor activities or relaxation. It has something for everyone, from family-friendly attractions to cultural experiences and delicious food & drink. Whether you are looking for an outdoor adventure or just some time to relax, Collingwood has something to offer everyone. If you plan on visiting Collingwood be sure to check out visitcollingwood.ca, which has plenty more information on planning your trip.

The Insider’s Guide to Collingwood, Ontario: Uncovering Hidden Gems and Unique Experiences

Collingwood, Ontario, is a small town located on the southern shore of Georgian Bay. While it may not be as well-known as other destinations in Ontario, such as Toronto or Niagara Falls, there’s a lot to love about this quaint little town. From hidden gems to unique experiences, here’s your insider’s guide to making the most of your trip to Collingwood.

Local Attractions: Discovering Hidden Gems

While there are undoubtedly a few well-known tourist spots in Collingwood, such as Blue Mountain Resort and Scenic Caves Nature Adventures, we recommend exploring some of the lesser-known attractions in town. For example:
– The Collingwood Arboretum: This hidden gem is a serene, 10-acre park located near the waterfront. It’s the perfect spot for a peaceful walk or picnic.
– The Tremont Cafe: This cozy coffee shop is a great spot to fuel up before a day of exploring. The cafe is located in the historic Tremont Building, which dates back to 1889.
– Sunset Point Park: This beautiful waterfront park is the perfect place to watch the sunset over Georgian Bay. There’s also a playground and a small beach for swimming.

Dining Spots: Exploring Local Cuisine

Collingwood is known for its vibrant food scene, with plenty of local eateries serving up delicious dishes. From poutine to fresh Georgian Bay whitefish, there’s something for everyone. Some of our favorite dining spots include:
– The Smoke: This casual, family-friendly restaurant serves up amazing barbeque dishes and craft beer.
– Fish & Sips: This seafood-focused restaurant is known for its fresh-caught Georgian Bay whitefish and excellent cocktails.
– The Blue Mountain Tea Company: This charming tea house serves up delicious scones, sandwiches, and tea blends. Be sure to try their famous cream tea!

Cultural Experiences: Immersing Yourself in Local Traditions

If you’re interested in exploring Collingwood’s cultural side, there are plenty of options available. For example:
– The Collingwood Brewery: This local brewery produces award-winning craft beer, and visitors can take a tour and sample the different varieties.
– The Blue Mountain Foundation for the Arts: This nonprofit organization hosts art exhibitions, workshops, and events throughout the year.
– The Collingwood Museum: Learn more about the town’s history and culture at this small but engaging museum. Be sure to check out the exhibit on the history of the Canadian Navy in Collingwood!

Local History: Uncovering Captivating Stories

Collingwood has a rich history, and there are plenty of fascinating stories to discover. A few noteworthy historical facts and events include:
– The Collingwood Shipyards: Once one of the busiest shipyards in the world, the Collingwood Shipyards produced more than 200 ships between 1883 and 1986.
– The Battle of Stoney Creek: During the War of 1812, a battle took place near Collingwood between American and British forces. Today, you can visit the battleground and learn more about the conflict.
– The Great Collingwood Train Wreck: In 1903, a train derailed in Collingwood, killing 19 people. Today, there’s a historical marker at the site of the accident.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Embarking on Unique Experiences

If you’re looking for something a little more unconventional, consider trying one of these unique experiences:
– Stand-up paddleboarding on Georgian Bay: Take a guided tour or rent a board and explore the crystal-clear waters of Georgian Bay.
– Treetop Trekking: This outdoor adventure park features ziplines, rope bridges, and other challenges suspended high up in the trees.
– The GNE Mini Putt: This mini-golf course is themed around the Great Northern Exhibition, a local agricultural fair. It’s a fun and quirky activity for all ages.

Conclusion: Embracing the Charm of Collingwood, Ontario

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a regular, there’s always something new and exciting to discover in Collingwood. From hidden gems to unique experiences, this insider’s guide has given you a taste of all this charming town has to offer. So what are you waiting for? Come experience the beauty and history of Collingwood for yourself, and be sure to share your experiences with your friends and family!