Things To Do
in Barrie
Barrie is a vibrant city located on the western shore of Lake Simcoe in Ontario, Canada. Known for its picturesque waterfront and rich cultural scene, Barrie offers a blend of outdoor activities and urban amenities. The city hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, drawing visitors to its parks and lively downtown area.
With a variety of restaurants, shops, and recreational opportunities, Barrie is a perfect destination for both relaxation and adventure.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a walk along the Barrie waterfront, enjoying the scenic views of Lake Simcoe. Grab breakfast at a local café such as The Farmhouse Café.
Visit the Barrie Art Centre to explore local art exhibitions, followed by a leisurely lunch at a lakeside restaurant. Afterward, stroll through the Barrie Farmers' Market for local produce and crafts.
Conclude your day with dinner at The Keg Steakhouse + Bar and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of downtown Barrie.
Begin with a hike at the Ardagh Bluffs, where you can enjoy nature trails and beautiful views. Afterward, have brunch at The Breakfast House.
Explore the MacLaren Art Centre to appreciate contemporary art and exhibitions. Enjoy a light lunch at the café within the art centre.
Experience Barrie's nightlife by visiting one of the popular pubs or breweries, such as Flying Monkeys Brewery, for local craft beer and a casual dinner.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at a restaurant | $15-30 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (within city) | $10-20 |
| 🏨Hotel (per night) | $100-200 |
| 🚌Public transport fare | $3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful waterfront and parks
- Rich cultural scene with events and festivals
- Diverse outdoor activities year-round
- Cold winters may limit outdoor activities
- Limited public transport options
- Can be touristy in summer, leading to crowded areas
Places to Visit in Barrie
Visit one of these nice places.
Stunning views of Lake Simcoe, perfect for sunset photography.
Beautiful trails and landscapes offering picturesque nature shots.
Historic buildings and vibrant street art create great urban photography opportunities.
Food in Barrie
Barrie Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular local fish, often served pan-fried with lemon and herbs.
Must-Try!
A Canadian classic with fries topped with cheese curds and gravy.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A weekly market showcasing local produce, baked goods, and artisanal products.
During summer, enjoy various food trucks offering diverse cuisines along the waterfront.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Canadians value politeness; saying 'please' and 'thank you' is expected.
Respect lines and wait your turn in public places.
Dispose of trash properly and recycle when possible.
Safety
Tipping in Barrie
Ensure a smooth experience
Customary to tip 15-20% in restaurants; rounding up for taxis is also appreciated.
Credit cards are widely accepted; cash is less common but useful for small vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild weather with blooming flowers; ideal for outdoor activities and festivals.
Warm temperatures perfect for waterfront activities and street festivals.
Cooler weather and vibrant fall foliage; great for hiking and photography.
Cold with snow; perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and winter festivals.
Barrie at Night
Hiking in Barrie
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Offers a network of trails through forests, wetlands, and fields, ideal for hiking and birdwatching.
A large area with multiple trails for hiking, biking, and enjoying nature.
Airports
How to reach Barrie by plane.
Located about 80 km from Barrie, this is the nearest major airport, offering extensive domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many young professionals live in Barrie, attracted by job opportunities and vibrant city life.
Barrie is home to many families who enjoy its parks, schools, and community events.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Ice hockey is a beloved sport in Barrie, with local teams and youth leagues thriving.
Lacrosse has a strong following in the area, with teams competing at various levels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Barrie.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, but check menus in advance.
Several eateries cater to gluten-free diets; ask staff for recommendations.