Spend a Weekend in Bracebridge
Written by Sarina Rene
If you’re looking for a little adventure, why not spend the weekend in Bracebridge? Less than three hours from Toronto, Bracebridge is a great spot to unplug from your daily grind, especially if you have a family! Here are some things to do, places to eat and adventures to be had!
Things to Do:
If you’re coming on a Friday afternoon, stretch your legs after that car ride by checking out one of the many trails Bracebridge has to offer! Right in town are the Wilson Falls and Bracebridge Bay Trails. If you’re looking for a little adventure, why not check out the Huckleberry Rock Lookout, Bracebridge Resource Centre or Little High Falls hiking trails?
Don’t miss the Saturday morning farmer’s market! From June to October, if you meander your way to Memorial Park, located right downtown, you can explore the many vendors at the market! This market isn’t just for fruit and veggies—there are many talented artisans as well, such as ceramicists, card makers, carpenters and jewellers, to name a few!
If you’re coming with young kiddos, the Santa’s Village Theme Park is a must! With several new ride additions over the past two years—a few geared towards older kids too! It’s the perfect place to spend a morning, afternoon, or a whole day.
If you fancy yourself the next pro golfer, there are several courses and ranges across town, such as Muskoka Highlands and the Fairways at Kirrie Glen. If you’re looking for more of a family-friendly adventure, Northern Escapades is great for kids of all ages.
Why not take a boat tour? Grab a Bracebridge River cruise from Muskoka Cruises and enjoy the view.
Places to Eat:
Start your day off with one of Baristah Coffee’s weekly latte specials! Every week there’s a new flavour to be had. Follow up with a delicious cookie or scone from Bumble Pastry, or a loaf of sourdough from Big River Baking Co (both located in the same building).
For a family-friendly breakfast with great portions, try Homestyle Cafe! Their portions are great.
For an upscale Sunday Brunch experience, grab brunch at Basilico! With patio views of the Muskoka River, it’ll be a feast for the eyes and your stomach.
If you’re looking for a great handheld lunch, try a sandwich from Fresh Kutz! A Bracebridge staple for years, they have plenty of options for every taste bud.
Looking for a more unique lunch option? Try My Neighbour’s Kitchen and Grill, a Filipino-inspired food truck located beside Seasons in the Country. Their pork adobo is so flavourful!
Looking for some spice? Try El Pueblito, a Mexican restaurant located on Main Street. Your tastes buds will thank you… once they stop dancing. Try the Mole Poblano!
For dinner and a show, head to the Griffin for great pub fare and music nights.
Places to Shop:
If you’re looking for a one-stop shop with unique gift options, head to Kala House of Colour! The store is packed with local and artisanal goods from other small businesses, such as floral bouquets from local farms and candles made right in Bracebridge.
Looking for a new art piece? Head to the Annex, where you can find everything from paintings to ceramics and even homemade jewelry.
If you’re always thrifting, head to Years a Go Go, the vintage store in town, for that perfect piece to finish an outfit.
Looking for your next beach read? Head to the Owl Pen, a secondhand bookstore that has many secondhand reads to be found. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, classics lover, mystery maven or romantic at heart, there’s something for you here.
Enjoy your escape to Bracebridge for a weekend getaway!