Things To Do
in Gravenhurst
Gravenhurst is a charming cottage country town perched on the shore of Lake Muskoka in Ontario's Muskoka region. It serves as a gateway to the surrounding lakes, forests, and scenic trails, offering a mix of heritage architecture and waterfront charm. Visitors can ride the steamships, stroll along the Muskoka Wharf, and explore family-friendly museums and parks.
In summer, the town buzzes with boaters, hikers, and seasonal events, while winter blankets the area in snow for cozy getaways.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Gravenhurst's Historic Center, where you can admire the beautifully preserved architecture dating back to the 19th century. Visit the Gravenhurst Opera House, a stunning venue that showcases local arts and culture. Grab a coffee and a pastry at a local café to fuel your exploration.
After lunch, head over to the Muskoka Wharf, where you can wander along the picturesque waterfront and take in the beautiful views of Lake Muskoka. Explore the Muskoka Discovery Centre, which offers insights into the region's rich maritime history and natural environment. Spend some time browsing the unique local shops and boutiques that line the streets.
As the sun begins to set, enjoy a delightful dinner at one of Gravenhurst's waterfront restaurants, where you can savor fresh, locally-sourced dishes. After dinner, take a peaceful evening walk along the harbor, enjoying the tranquil sounds of the water and the stunning sunset views. Wrap up your day with a visit to a local pub or lounge for some live music and a taste of the local nightlife.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before heading to the Muskoka Steamships for a scenic boat cruise on Lake Muskoka. As you glide across the water, take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding islands and lush landscapes. The knowledgeable crew will share stories about the area's history and unique features, making for an enriching experience.
After your cruise, spend some time at the nearby Gull Lake Park, where you can enjoy a picnic lunch in a serene setting surrounded by nature. Take advantage of the park's recreational facilities, including walking trails, a beach area, and playgrounds for the kids. Consider renting a kayak or paddleboard to explore the lake at your own pace.
Return to town for dinner at a cozy bistro, where you can indulge in a delicious meal featuring local ingredients. After dinner, catch a performance at the Gravenhurst Opera House, where you can enjoy a local theater production or live music event. Conclude your evening with a nightcap at a nearby pub, soaking in the friendly atmosphere and engaging with locals.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-5 |
| 🏨Hotel night (mid-range) | $120-200 |
| 🚗Car rental per day | $50-80 |
| 🛍️Souvenirs | $10-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic lake scenery and easy access to cottage-country outdoors
- Family-friendly activities and a walkable waterfront
- Rich maritime heritage with seasonal events
- Safe, peaceful atmosphere suitable for couples and families
- Limited nightlife and mall-style shopping
- Smaller town amenities compared to bigger cities
- Seasonal crowds and traffic in summer weekends
- Moderate public transit options requiring reliance on a car
Places to Visit in Gravenhurst
Visit one of these nice places.
The historic RMS Segwun and nearby steamships provide dramatic waterfront compositions at sunrise or sunset.
A walkable riverside stretch with classic dockside views and charming town architecture.
Elegant historic hotel grounds and lake vistas offering refined photo angles across Lake Muskoka.
Expansive open skies and rugged terrain ideal for wide landscapes and night photography.
Food in Gravenhurst
Gravenhurst Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Wood-fired or pan-seared salmon with a maple glaze and seasonal vegetables, a common lakeside specialty.
Must-Try!
Creamy soup featuring Ontario mushrooms, often served with crusty bread.
Crispy fried fish (often perch or pickerel) with chips and tartar sauce, available at waterfront eateries.
Classic Canadian dessert—sweet custard tarts with a flaky crust, widely available at bakeries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering fresh produce, baked goods, honey, maple products, and homemade treats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly hello and small chat about the weather are common in casual conversations.
Keep voices down in residential neighborhoods, especially in the evenings.
If hiking or near nature, respect wildlife; store food securely and dispose of waste properly.
Safety
Tipping in Gravenhurst
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping at restaurants is customary (15-20% before tax) unless service is explicitly included. Housekeeping and guides may also be tipped.
Cash and major credit cards are widely accepted; Interac debit cards and contactless payments (Tap) are common; some places accept mobile wallets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with frequent sunshine and a lively waterfront scene; expect boat traffic and outdoor events; bring sun protection and water.
Crisp air and brilliant fall colors along trails and lake shores; excellent for photography and quiet hikes.
Snowy landscapes and potential ice on lakes; great for winter sports and cozy, snow-covered vistas.
Mild temperatures with blooming trees and lakeside trails reopening after winter; occasional rain.
Gravenhurst at Night
Hiking in Gravenhurst
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A family-friendly trail alongside the Muskoka River with easy terrain and scenic river views.
A vast, open landscape offering expansive skies and unique granite outcrops; ideal for hiking and stargazing.
Scenic routes along Lake Muskoka with lake access and forested sections near Windermere and Gravenhurst.
Airports
How to reach Gravenhurst by plane.
A small regional airport serving general aviation and charter flights; convenient for quick trips to cottage country.
Major international gateway about 1.5-2.5 hours by car or train, providing domestic and international flights.
City-center access to shorter domestic flights and easy connections to the cottage country by road or rail.
A larger international hub farther away but useful for cross-country connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of long-time residents and seasonal visitors who spend weekends and summers by the lake.
Many residents enjoy a slower pace and active outdoor lifestyle year-round.
Part of the broader Muskoka region’s diverse cultural landscape; respectful engagement with local history and land is encouraged.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport year-round in Canada; local recreational leagues and public skating give visitors a taste of Canadian hockey culture.
Boating, kayaking, and fishing on Lake Muskoka are staples of cottage country life.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Gravenhurst.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most venues offer vegetarian options; ask about cheese, egg dishes, and sides like salads or seasonal vegetables. Look for mains based on vegetables, legumes, and mushrooms; request egg-free pastries if needed.