How to make the most of your summer in Barrie
July 8, 2019
If you’re at the Barrie Campus this summer, there are plenty of fun things to do around town once your sessions are finished for the day or as a whole group. Whether you’re a foodie, an artist or a nature lover, we’ve put together the following list to help you plan awesome summer adventures.
1. Be a tourist and explore the waterfront
At the heart of the city, Barrie’s waterfront is a major attraction for locals and visitors alike. Take a self-guided tour, soak in the history on the heritage trail or visit one of the many parks in the area.
There’s also a ton of recreation amenities to keep you busy – from onshore activities like beach volleyball and cycling, to offshore activities like canoeing and kayaking.
2. Support local farms
Barrie is surrounded by lush greenery and fertile soil perfect for farming. There’s nothing quite like fresh food grown, raised and harvested close to home. If you’re a fan of strawberries, blueberries, raspberries and other fruits, consider picking your own fruit at a local farm.
There’s also the local Barrie Farmer’s Market located outside by city hall. Open every Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to noon, it’s filled with a huge variety of food and entertainment, it’s a great place to check out with friends or family.
3. Explore the art scene in the heart of Barrie
Do you love crafts? If so, Kempenfest might be the place for you. This festival takes over the entire shore of Kempenfelt Bay with 350 arts and crafts vendors from across North America. This festival also features musical performances, lots to eat and drink, and a midway!
If you’re a big film buff, then the Barrie Film Festival may be the spot for you. Throughout the summer, they will also be screening a series of family-friendly films outdoors and free of charge to the Barrie community.
Be sure to also check out one of the city’s several theatres.
4. Eat (and drink) your way through the city
Support your local restaurants and food festivals and enjoy a great meal with friends and family.
Tour a local brewery. Flying Monkeys Brewery, Barnstormer Brewing Company and Redline Brewhouse are all must tries!
The Barrielicious Festival is also taking place from July 5th to July 21st and will feature prix fixe menus from some of best restaurants in the city.
5. Visit the local beaches
Looking for a relaxing day out in the sun? Then try out one of Barrie’s local beaches. Equipped with playgrounds, beach volleyball courts and picnic grounds, there’s a little something for everyone.
6. Unplug, disconnect and explore nature
As we’ve already mentioned, Barrie’s location at the edge of Lake Simcoe makes it a great destination for all things outdoorsy.
This summer, explore the various hiking trails, fishing spots or camping grounds. If you’re not afraid of heights, try out TreeTop Trekking!
7. Just get out and explore
You can check out the Tourism Barrie page or the Instagram page for the Downtown Barrie Business Association for more neat things to do all year round. Happy summer everyone!