With summer around the corner and school almost out, there is no need to feel trapped or confined. Even if Covid restrictions continue clamping down on our indoor activities and dampening our spirits, fear not as Barrie has everything to offer to get you and your family out of the house this summer. With endless outdoor activities and experiences to choose from, you will not have time to get bored. Barrie has activities to cater to our young children, activities to satisfy our adrenaline junkies and thrill-seekers, and more leisurely activities for our older generation. It is not just summertime that is great in Barrie – every season brings different opportunities. But forget those other seasons for now and let us pour up that glass of champagne and all raise our glasses to “making the most of Summer 2021 in Barrie”. Here are some options to get us started.
1. Beaches
That’s right – the sun has its hat on and it’s definitely coming out to play! Grab that deck chair and towel, and explore the wide range of beaches available right on our doorstep.
Centennial Beach
Centennial Park has a sandy beach that spans 400m on the shores of Lake Simcoe. In the heat of the day, take a few steps back and take shade in the grassy areas that are calling out for your picnic basket. While sitting with your picnic, there is a playground perfect for those little ones to burn off some energy while you relax for a moment. There are three parking lots off Lakeshore Drive which are ideally situated for access to the beach.
Wilkins Beach
If you don’t want the hustle and bustle of the ever-popular Centennial Beach, then look no further. A beach predominantly visited by residents, Wilkins Beach attracts locals with its “at one with nature” feel, with surrounding trails to explore if you get tired of sunning yourself. Wilkins Beach is located at the southeast end of Barrie’s waterfront.
Johnsons Beach
If you are looking for a beach to visit in the north end of Barrie, you can check out Johnsons Beach. Johnsons Beach is located at the end of the northern terminus of the Waterfront Trail. Activities enjoyed on this beach are swimming, tanning, and sightseeing. Located next door to the Yacht Club, this is a perfect location for those wanting more privacy.
2. Water Sports & Activities
Not one for lounging on the beach? Barrie has something for you too! The Lakes are prime places to launch your Kayaks, Canoes, or Paddle Boards. Don’t have them? Not to worry – there are many places that offer day rentals so you can try it out before committing to buying your own. If you have kids that want more entertainment than hanging out at the beach, here is another option for them too!
Splash On Water Park
Splash On Water Park is due to open at limited capacity in Stage Two. Let your kids have fun on this giant inflatable obstacle course boasting climbing walls, monkey bars, trampolines, slides, and more! Children over the age of 9yrs can go on their own and for those 5yrs-8yrs, they will need to be accompanied by an adult. A perfect chance for parents to spend some quality time with their little ones and to blow off some steam too!
3. Golf & Mini Golf
Ontario has now deemed Golf to be a safe outdoor activity and has resumed with some restrictions throughout Ontario. There has never been a better time to take up golf. Golfing and mini-golfing are perfect opportunities to enjoy some outdoor activities while continuing to practice social distancing.
Cedar Links Family Golf
Cedar Links offers something for the whole family. There is a driving range to work on your swing, then once you have mastered your style you can move on to the par 3 golf course. If you have little ones, why not take them to the 18 hole mini-putt course? The mini-putt course is also interactive – with water features and opportunities to feed the goats, sheep, chickens and rabbits.
4. Outdoor Adventures
Prefer something different and exciting? Barrie has that too! From satisfying those thrill-seekers to visiting beautiful scenic wonders, Barrie and Simcoe County has it covered.
Treetop Trekking at Horseshoe Resort
Only a 20-minute drive north of Barrie you can visit Ontario’s original adventure park at Horseshoe Resort. Here you can plan a fun-filled day climbing and zipping from tree to tree in the spectacular Copeland Forest. This park has activities for everyone aged 5yrs – Adult. They also have night trekking to offer a different experience altogether.
Rounds Ranch
Located just 25 minutes north of Barrie, Rounds Ranch has over 20 activities for the whole family – with a new 500 foot long Slip and Slide for 2021. Whether you are visiting the petting zoo, jumping on the giant Buckaroo Bouncers, or picking your lavender bouquet – there is something for all ages.
Wolfs Den Sports
Looking to brush up on those archery skills? Wolfs Den offers an enjoyable and unique outdoor adventure. Nestled on 40 acres of wooded country trails, this venue is sure to entertain. It has an archery range, catch and release fishing, and outdoor axe and hatchet throwing. To make the day more enjoyable and convenient, there are picnic tables and BBQ’s available for guest use.
Barrie Hill Farms
Another great outdoor activity for the whole family is awaiting at Barrie Hill Farms. Here you can go berry picking with the family, visit their market, cafe and bakery. At the moment, they are offering asparagus cooking. What a great time to think about eating fresh when you can see the origin of the food that you are cooking with.
5. Hiking & Trails
For those who love the outdoors and love to get out and explore, there is no shortage of trails in our area. Canada is known for its great outdoors and no matter your age or ability, you will enjoy walking or biking on the trails right at your doorstep.
Hardwood Ski & Bike
Hardwood Ski and Bike is a great place to visit all year round. It has rolling trails through hardwood and pine forests, mountain biking and trail running/hiking. There is a trail for every ability with different terrains available. Private lessons are available as well as youth camps.
Scanlon Creek Conservation Area
Scanlon Creek Conservation Area is a hikers haven. There are five main trails through Scanlon Creek to cater to any fitness ability. There are two picnic pavilions on site and BBQ’s available if you’d like to spend the day there.
6. Festivals
Yes, that’s right! Understandably we have all been used to staying at home but come the peak of summer, we should all be in a place where we can meet outdoors and enjoy some of Barrie’s spectacular community spirit. Meridian Place in Barrie is the home of Promenade Days and Canada Day celebrations.
Kempenfest
Kempenfest is due to be back for 2021! Kempenfest is Ontario’s biggest and best festival with over 400 vendors, live music, great food, youth village, travelling theme park, and a vibe that is bound to lift your spirits.
Hopefully, you’ve been inspired to have a great summer, full of fun activities! We are all lucky to call Simcoe County our home and I hope we all get out there this summer and appreciate what we have. Are there any other activities you will be enjoying this summer?? Follow on Facebook to get notifications of our weekly Blog Posts.
Michelle Stevens
REALTOR®
Email: michelle@jewelhouserealestate.com
Phone: 705-970-6137
RE/MAX Hallmark Chay Realty Inc. Brokerage
