Heart of Georgian Bay

Explore rich history and culture

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Welcome to the Heart of Georgian Bay in Simcoe County!

The Heart of Georgian Bay proudly encompasses the communities of Midland, Penetanguishene, Tay, Tiny, and Beausoleil Island First Nations. Here, you will find National and Provincial Parks, cherished historical sites, deep-rooted Indigenous and Francophone culture, protected wildlife areas, waterfront recreational trails, and so much more. Beaches here rival the most exotic white sand and crystal clear water you’ll find anywhere in the world. Freshwater boating, whether under power, sail or paddle, is unparalleled, and the fishing is rich too.

But if you think summer is where all the fun is, wait until you see how we celebrate winter! The Georgian Bay Snowbelt allows for an endless network of snowmobile trails, peaceful snowshoe adventures and perfect photo opportunities. Come experience the Georgian Bay life.

MIDLAND

Midland is home to the largest butter tart festival in Canada! A gateway to Georgian Bay’s picturesque 30,000 islands, Midland welcomes boaters and visitors year-round. A recreation destination and a lively downtown core lined with beautiful murals, gourmet restaurants, and one-of-a-kind shops.

PENETANGUISHENE

Rich with heritage, culture and recognized as having one of the most picturesque and protected harbours, Penetanguishene is a haven for tourists, artists and outdoor enthusiasts. With modern amenities such as a skate park and splash pad, complemented with historical features, Rotary Champlain Wendat Park tells the 400+ year story of a Town that still boasts its Indigenous name.

TAY

Tay Township is a four-season destination offering inclusive cultural and recreational activities for all ages. From the 18.5 km paved Tay Shore Trail and the waters of Georgian Bay, to the unique and deep history that surrounds us, including the Martyrs’ Shrine, Sainte-Marie Among the Hurons and Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre, there is always something more to discover in Tay Township.

TINY

The Township of Tiny has 70 km of shoreline and a total of five beach parks for visitors to enjoy, including: Woodland Beach, Bluewater Beach, Jackson Park, Balm Beach and Lafontaine Beach Park. Also home to Awenda Provincial Park and Le Festival Du Loop, a celebration of francophone culture and heritage.

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Outdoor Activities

BEACHES

TRAILS

BIKING

FISHING

BOATING

PADDLING

What You Need To Know
For Where You Want To Go

Here are a few options on how you can get here, and how to get around. Safe travels!

By Train & By Bus

By BIKE

By BOAT

By AIRPLANE

By Car

By Train & By Bus

Travel from Toronto by GO Train or Bus to Bradford, Innisfil, or Barrie. Visit gotransit.com for schedules. Connect from there to a Simcoe County LINX bus, with routes throughout the county. Visit LINX for more info on Barrie to Heart of Georgian Bay Routes. For local bus services, see the Midland-Penetanguishene Transit Service Schedule: https://www.midland.ca/transit

By BIKE

Did you know the county is connected by safe cycling road routes and multi-use rail trails? Check out Cycle Simcoe (cyclesimcoe.ca) for bike rentals, repair stations, routes, and more!

By BOAT

We don’t have a ferry service, but The Heart of Georgian Bay has plenty of transient boat slips and we are accessible through the Great Lakes and through the Trent Severn Waterway.

By AIRPLANE

Travel by air into Huronia Airport. Huronia Airport offers a 4,000 foot runway, ample tie-down and ramp space and competitively priced fueling options suitable for all types of aircraft from single engine to executive jet.

By Car

Drive yourself, rent a car, call a cab, or book a driver any time of the day. In the Heart of Georgian Bay, Busy Bee Taxi, Central Taxi, GB Taxi, and Q’West Taxi are available choices. Please drive sober, and share the road with cyclists and pedestrians!

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