Things To Do
in Barrie
Barrie is a city located in Ontario, Canada, situated on the western shore of Lake Simcoe. It is known for its picturesque waterfront, vibrant downtown area, and outdoor recreational opportunities. Barrie offers a mix of urban amenities and natural beauty, making it a popular destination for both residents and visitors.
With a growing population and a diverse community, Barrie continues to thrive as a dynamic city in central Ontario.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $3 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $80 - $150
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $40 - $75
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk along Barrie's beautiful waterfront. Enjoy the sunrise views over Lake Simcoe and take in the scenic surroundings.
Grab lunch at a local café and then visit the Barrie Arts Centre to explore local art exhibitions. Spend the afternoon relaxing at the beach or participating in water sports.
Dine at a waterfront restaurant and enjoy the sunset view. End your day with a stroll along the boardwalk, soaking in the tranquil ambiance.
Kick off your morning with a hike in Centennial Park, surrounded by nature. Enjoy the fresh air and beautiful trails while spotting local wildlife.
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the park's serene spots. After lunch, rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the small waterways.
Head back to Barrie's downtown for dinner at a cozy bistro. Wind down your day with a movie at the local cinema.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful waterfront on Lake Simcoe, offering recreational activities.
- Rich cultural scene with festivals, museums, and art galleries.
- Access to outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and boating.
- Growing economy with various job opportunities in different sectors.
- Family-friendly community with good schools and parks.
- Higher cost of living compared to some surrounding areas.
- Limited public transportation options.
- Seasonal weather can be harsh, especially in winter.
- Potential for traffic congestion during peak tourist seasons.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options for younger residents.
Best Activities in Barrie
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful trails and lush greenery at Ardagh Bluffs, offering a peaceful and scenic outdoor adventure.
Enjoy a leisurely walk or bike ride along the picturesque Barrie waterfront, offering stunning views of Kempenfelt Bay.
Experience the thrill of stand-up paddleboarding on the calm waters of Centennial Beach, perfect for water sports enthusiasts.
Places to Visit in Barrie
Visit one of these nice places.
Beautiful views of the bay and surrounding area, great for photos especially during sunset.
Scenic walking paths along the water with opportunities for capturing the city skyline in the background.
Offers panoramic views of Lake Simcoe and the Barrie skyline, ideal for breathtaking sunset photos.
Food in Barrie
Barrie Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Canadian classic consisting of crispy fries topped with cheese curds and smothered in rich gravy. For an authentic taste, visit The Local Gastropub, where they take poutine to the next level with creative toppings.
Must-Try!
Indulge in this quintessentially Canadian dessert featuring flaky pastry filled with a rich, buttery, caramel-like filling. Don's Bakery is renowned for its delectable butter tarts.
A savory delight, this sandwich showcases peameal bacon, a Canadian specialty made from lean boneless pork loin, thinly sliced and coated in cornmeal. Stop by The Farmhouse Restaurant for a mouth-watering peameal bacon sandwich experience.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The Barrie Farmers' Market is a hub of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and delectable treats. Enjoy a delightful array of local and organic fruits, vegetables, baked goods, and prepared foods from various vendors.
Experience a vibrant tapestry of flavors at the Food Truck Frenzy events held at different locations throughout Barrie. Sample an eclectic assortment of street food offerings ranging from gourmet burgers and tacos to international delicacies.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Barrie, it is important to show respect for the Indigenous cultures and their traditions. This includes being mindful of sacred sites and being open to learning about their customs and history.
Canadians, including those in Barrie, value politeness and courtesy. It is important to use 'please' and 'thank you' in interactions and to be mindful of personal space.
Punctuality is important in Canadian culture, so it is best to arrive on time for appointments and meetings in Barrie.
Safety
Tipping in Barrie
Ensure a smooth experience
In Barrie, Canada, tipping is generally expected in restaurants, bars, and for other services such as hairdressers, taxi drivers, and hotel staff. The standard tipping amount is typically 15-20% of the total bill.
Payment in Barrie, Canada is commonly made using credit or debit cards, and cash is also widely accepted. Contactless payment methods are becoming increasingly popular. It's important to note that Canadian currency includes coins such as the Canadian dollar and the two-dollar coin, known as the toonie.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
In spring, Barrie experiences milder temperatures, averaging around 5-15°C (41-59°F), with blooming flowers and trees adding color to the city. It's a great time for outdoor activities and nature walks.
Summer in Barrie brings warm temperatures, ranging from 20-30°C (68-86°F), ideal for enjoying the city's beaches, parks, and outdoor events. It's the peak tourist season with various festivals and water activities available.
Fall is characterized by beautiful foliage as the leaves change colors, creating picturesque landscapes. The temperatures range from 5-20°C (41-68°F), making it an excellent time for hiking and enjoying the fall colors.
Winter in Barrie brings snow and cold temperatures, averaging around -10 to -5°C (14-23°F). The city offers various winter activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and ice fishing, making it a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts.
Barrie at Night
Hiking in Barrie
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic park featuring beautiful waterfalls and hiking trails that wind through lush forests.
Offers a variety of hiking trails that provide stunning views, especially during the fall season when the leaves change color.
A picturesque trail along Lake Simcoe, ideal for casual hikes with views of the water and surrounding flora.
A network of trails that offers various difficulty levels and opportunities to explore the natural beauty of the Simcoe region.
Features hiking trails through diverse landscapes including forests, wetlands, and rocky shorelines along the Rideau system.
Aiports
How to reach Barrie by plane.
The primary airport serving Toronto, located approximately 85 kilometers south of Barrie, offers numerous international flights.
Located on the Toronto Islands, this airport is about 90 kilometers south of Barrie and serves mainly regional flights but has some international connections.
Situated roughly 105 kilometers southwest of Barrie, this airport offers a variety of domestic and some international flights.
Located about 120 kilometers southwest of Barrie, this airport provides some international flights mainly to the United States and Sun destinations.
Approximately 170 kilometers southwest of Barrie, this airport serves various regional and few international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group, encompassing various backgrounds including British, Irish, German, and Italian ancestries.
Includes individuals of Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi, and Sri Lankan descent, contributing a significant portion of the population.
Comprises individuals of African descent, including both recent immigrants and long-standing residents.
A growing demographic group, reflecting the influx of individuals from China and other Chinese-speaking regions.
Includes First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples, with a smaller but vital presence in the community.
Represents individuals from various Latin American countries, contributing to the cultural diversity of Barrie.
A mix of various smaller groups, including but not limited to Middle Eastern, Southeast Asian, and Filipino communities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport in Barrie with a rich tradition and numerous local teams, playing in various leagues from youth to adult.
Known as Canada's national summer sport, lacrosse has a strong following in Barrie with organized leagues and programs.
Soccer is widely played in Barrie, with many youth leagues and adult recreational teams participating in local tournaments.
Baseball has a deep community presence in Barrie, with numerous local teams and summer leagues for various age groups.
Basketball is growing in popularity in Barrie, with many schools and community organizations offering programs for youth and adults.
Curling is a traditional winter sport enjoyed by many in Barrie, with local clubs and leagues available for participants.
Running events and clubs are prevalent in Barrie, promoting fitness and community involvement throughout the year.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Barrie.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many establishments in Barrie are accommodating to vegetarian and vegan diners, offering diverse plant-based dishes that are both nutritious and flavorful. Notable restaurants include Town & Country Steakhouse and Made of Wood.
Those with gluten sensitivities can enjoy a variety of gluten-free options at eateries across Barrie. From dedicated gluten-free bakeries like The Sweet Oven to restaurants like Kenzington Burger Bar, there are numerous choices for gluten-free dining.