Barrie
Barrie offers year-round fun with multiple beaches, cycling paths, fishing, boating and skiing options nearby. The city is also home to a vibrant cultural scene with live music, performing arts and festivals like the Barrie Waterfront Festival.
One of the city’s jewels is the scenic six-kilometre-long Barrie waterfront trail with parks, gardens and sunny patios. Free public wi-fi is even available to stay connected.
Enjoy Barrie’s year-round farmers’ market featuring the seasonal bounty of Simcoe County and explore the city’s galleries, including the MacLaren Art Centre.
Where is Barrie?
Located in the centre of Southern Ontario, the city of Barrie is about an hour’s drive north of Toronto on Highway 400 and an hour’s drive east of Blue Mountain. The city lies on the shores of Kempenfelt Bay at the western arm of Lake Simcoe.
GO Train service is available between Toronto and Barrie, and Barrie Transit operates numerous bus routes in the city. The closest major airport is Toronto’s Pearson International.
Things to do in Barrie
Make it a beach day
There’s no shortage of swimmable beaches in Barrie. Popular spots include Minet's Point Beach, Johnson's Beach, The Gables and Tyndale Beach. Pack a beach picnic and make a day of it.
Explore an arboretum
The Arboretum at Sunnidale Park features a botanical collection of trees, gardens and floral displays to explore. The park also offers an accessible Adventure Playground for young ones.
Discover birding hotspots
Barrie and the surrounding area is a birding haven. A variety of birds are attracted to fish in Kempenfelt Bay during migration season, offering great opportunities for bird watching.
Relax on a patio
Wondering where to eat in Barrie? Check out the various restaurants and patios at the Barrie Waterfront. Stroll the waterfront and find everything from craft brewers to gourmet pizza.
Explore a recreational trail
Grab some walking shoes and set off on the Ardagh Bluffs trail—a 17-kilometre system spread out over 210 hectares—most zoned “Environmentally Protected.” Parking available nearby.
Shop at a farmers’ market
Shop locally grown produce, fresh-baked goods and artisanal crafts at the Barrie Farmers’ Market every Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The market features live music every week.
Get inspired
Plan your visit with these experiences and itineraries.
Points of interest
Discover more highlights this city has to offer.
Last updated: September 13, 2023