There’s so much to discover in Ontario, you could get lost. Or not know where to start. You’ve come to the right place, as I’m putting together a series of places I love to visit in Ontario to help you explore more. Let’s start right away by visiting Collingwood, with a complete guide to help you enjoy this town just 2 hours from Toronto.
Before we go any further, don’t forget to find me on Instagram, on Pinterest and on Youtube. You can also watch my Collingwood vlog on Youtube.
Collingwood is located on Georgian Bay, 150 kilometers north of Toronto. It’s a town you’ll enjoy visiting in summer, fall, spring or winter. From one season to the next, the town transforms itself: in winter, it’s more of a ski resort while, while in summer, with its easy access to the beach, it’s a very different place.
The town’s main industry was boat building. Don’t be surprised to find many references to water and this past throughout your visit.
How do I get to Collingwood from Toronto?
If you want to visit Collingwood your main option is to go by car. Especially if you want the flexibility to drive around and explore the surrounding area. From Toronto you also have the option of taking the bus with FlixBus.
How long can I stay in Collingwood?
The city isn’t very big. But if you have a car and can get around, I recommend staying for at least two days. You’ll have plenty of time to explore the surrounding area.
What to do in Collingwood?
Obviously, depending on the season you visit Collingwood, not all activities will be possible. But it will give you the opportunity to come at different seasons and choose your favourite.
Explore downtown
The town was founded back in 1858, and there are plenty of places to explore, full of history, that will tell you more about life in Collingwood at the time. I really liked the old buildings and the special atmosphere they brought with them. You can also follow the self-guided tours prepared by Collingwood Tourist Office. If you’d like to learn more about the town in preparation for your visit, you can read about Collingwood’s history here.
Discover art in the streets of Collingwood
Wandering around the streets of Collingwood, I stumbled across some lovely pieces. The huge Greetings from Collingwood pictured above. If you want to discover public art, I recommend you take a look at the town’s website, to see where you can find the different pieces. Apparently I missed the rhinoceros that was installed to represent the LGBTQ+ community, if you’re in the area stop by the corner of Tremont Square and send me a photo on Instagram!
Visit the Collingwood Museum
The Collingwood Museum is housed in the former train station built in 1873. Its aim is to preserve the town’s history. You’ll find a number of permanent and temporary exhibits. Learn more about the Collingwood community’s involvement in the First and Second World Wars. Further information on the museum.
A tour of the First World War
Speaking of World War I, you can take a tour of Collingwood’s WWI landmarks. The tour offered by the museum is advertised as virtual, but you can follow the points on the Google map and make your own visit on the spot. You can find more information here.
Go on the beach
The great thing about a lakeside town is that you can easily get to the beach! Within walking distance of the town center, you can go to Sunset Point Beach, which is a very pretty white pebble beach. I’ve got several options for you, depending on the season and your mood: a short stroll, relaxing with a book or a picnic. If you feel like getting out on the water, you can also rent a kayak or paddle to explore the bay. I found this rental company that offers several options.
Book a boat tour
When I was in Collingwood, I saw cruise ships returning from the lake. I did a little digging for you and found Collingwood Charters, which offers several options. One option I’m eyeing for my next visit: the sunset cruise. You also have the option of a 2-hour ride with a live band. With the lovely views over Georgian Bay, it sounds like a great way to enjoy the area.
Stroll along the Georgian Bay Trail
Of course, you can’t talk about exploring a city in Ontario without mentioning some hiking. Wherever you are, you’ll find it! You can hike part of the Georgian Bay Trail, either from one town to the next, or retrace your steps back to Collingwood. This trail is part of the Great Lakes Waterfront Trail, which runs from northern Ontario south along the Great Lakes. I mentioned it in my article on the pretty town of Port Hope. You can find the map and more details on this site. You can also use the All Trails app to find other options in the area.
Take a gourmet break
Collingwood has some lovely cafés and restaurants that I’m sure will please foodies. I tried Gibson & Co, which I really liked. It’s a café/restaurant with a really nice atmosphere and a very narrow street to get to, which gives this address a little secret touch. I also went to the Espresso Post café to get some work done. The welcome was super warm and I loved the decor!
A stroll in the harbour
I really enjoyed walking along the harbour. You have several options. I chose the closest one, which starts behind the LCBO. You have benches all along the way to sit on. You can see the boats coming in and out of the harbour. With the lighthouse in the background. If you’re chatty like me, feel free to strike up a conversation with other walkers. I learned a lot about the town from a couple who were also strolling along.
Discover the filming locations
Like many towns in Ontario, Collingwood has been used as a backdrop for many films! Maybe you know some of them and could have some fun finding the locations. I’m sharing with you a list I’ve found of movies filmed there.
Visit one of the parks
In need of a little greenery? Take some time out for a stroll in one of the city’s parks. Between Collingwood Arboretum, Harboulands Park and Millennium Overlook Park, you’ve got plenty of options within walking distance.
Georgian Trail Observation Deck
Stop off at the Georgian Trail Observation Deck, a lovely space to observe nature from the water’s edge. A calm and relaxing place to recharge your batteries.
Here are a few suggestions to help you visit Collingwood! If you want to find out what to do around Collingwood, I recommend you read this article! If you’re looking for other weekend ideas around Toronto, read this article.
