Collingwood
Collingwood is truly a four-season destination that has something for just about everyone.
Nestled on the south shore of Georgian Bay, it’s surrounded by beautiful multi-use trails. And it’s just minutes away from Ontario’s most popular ski resort for the snow enthusiasts, as well as the longest freshwater beach in the world for summer sun seekers.
Add to that a fascinating shipbuilding history, gorgeous heritage architecture, wonderful local theatre and a flourishing culinary and craft brew community, and you have the perfect place for a getaway.
To learn more about all there is to see and do in Collingwood, scroll down or visit the town's tourism website.
Where is Collingwood?
Collingwood is about a two-hour drive from Toronto, located along Highway 26, east of Barrie on Nottawasaga Bay. Collingwood is an easy drive up Highway 400, or alternatively up Airport Road from the Greater Toronto Area.
For car-free travel, Collingwood is accessible by bus from Barrie via the Simcoe County LINX service with a change over in Wasaga Beach.
Things to Do in Collingwood
There are a plethora of things to do and see in this popular small town. Just 15 minutes west, Blue Mountain Resort is one of Ontario’s favourite adventures, with great downhill skiing and snowboarding, the Scandinave Spa, as well as golf and mountain biking. Wasaga Beach, the longest freshwater beach in the world, is about 25 minutes in the opposite direction.
And directly on the town’s doorstep are over 60 km of recreational trails for cyclists, hikers, joggers and nature lovers that connect to local gems like the scenic lookout at Millennium Park, gardens at the Arboretum, the new labyrinth in Harbourview Park, the Collingwood Museum located in a reconstructed 1870s train station, the beach at Sunset Point and historic downtown. The 34 km Georgian Trail leads further afield to neighbouring communities of Thornbury and Meaford.
Collingwood is a very walkable and discoverable city. Embark on a self-guided foodie walking tour of the various restaurants, cafés, bars and craft breweries. Collingwood is fiercely proud of its talented culinary and drink community — you’ll see them showcasing broad and unique menus and beverages made from local ingredients.
Tour Collingwood’s beautiful Harbourlands Park and take in the magnificent views of Georgian Bay. Collingwood’s grain terminals are a recognized landmark and physical reminder of the town’s shipping history. Today, its tall white columns accent the harbour adorned with gardens and landscaped walkways.
If you’re ready to hit the pavement, take an arts or architecture walk. From May to October, an outdoor gallery of painted chairs are scattered throughout the town. The Downtown Heritage Walk, West Heritage Walk and East Heritage Walk showcase the stunning historical buildings that reflect various architectural styles, like the beaux arts-style Collingwood Federal Building.
Things to Know About Visiting Collingwood
Make the most of your trip to Collingwood with these insider tips.
Where to watch the sunset
Witness incredible sunsets over the Nottawasaga Bay at Sunset Point Beach on Collingwood’s waterfront.
Little-known fact
Collingwood’s successful shipbuilding economy lasted 103 years, learn all about it at the Collingwood Museum.
Where to snap a great Instagram pic
Stunning lavender fields in bloom at picturesque South Bay Fields Lavender Farm sets the perfect backdrop for insta-worthy pictures.
Best urban legend
What was once known as the Beild House at Pine and Third has ghostly tales of a doctor, Dr. J.R. Arthur, who once lived and practiced in the building. Beild House was the subject of a reality show, “Cold Spot Paranormal Research”. Over the years, guests who have stayed there have reportedly seen people in the hallway and a woman coming down the stairs, bleeding from the head. This wounded woman has been linked to an incident suffered by the wife of the doctor. Spooky stuff!
Last updated: February 10, 2023
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