TGIF! The week is finally over, and it’s time to make plans for things to do this weekend in Barrie. Whether you are a thrill-seeker, weekend warrior or prefer a more tame day off, weekends in Barrie do not disappoint. In fact, the hardest part will be deciding which activities to do! Start your weekend plans now and be sure to include some of these activities:
Eat and Drink This Weekend in Barrie
Barrie offers incredible restaurants and a terrific downtown core filled with amazing pubs! Whatever you choose to do, there are great food choices day or night. Whether you make it a brunch, a healthy takeaway lunch on the beach, fancy, fine-dining for dinner, or all of the above, there are enough food choices to fill more than one great weekend. Unwind and maximize your weekend time by indulging in wine and specialty spirits at the local wine bar, Canvas and Cabernet, or visit Barrie’s Yonge St. brewery, Barnstormer Brewery.
Kayak and Canoeing on the Barrie Waterfront
With such convenient proximity to Lake Simcoe, everyone in Barrie spends quality time on the lake. You can go swimming at one of the several beaches such as Centennial Beach, Minet’s Point or Johnsons Beach, walk along the lakeside trail, or go canoeing and kayaking. For the latter, check out the SUP, kayak and canoe rentals at Happy Paddling and make a day of it!
Climb and Zipline Attractions in Barrie
One of the top weekend destinations for those who live in Barrie is Horseshoe Resort. Try Horseshoe’s Treetop Trekking where you can try Ziplining, Climbing, and Aerial Flying. Here, you strap yourself into a harness, climb through a series of obstacles amongst the natural, beautiful scenery of the Ontario forest, and then attach yourself onto a rope as you fly to another tree! Fun for kids, adults, and people of all ages, the routes are as easy or challenging as you like, and serve as a great way to build upper body strength, while having bonding time with friends and family. Not to mention, you get to be outside getting some exercise and having so much fun! Reservations are required so be sure to call in advance of your visit.
Wintersports in Barrie – Ski and Snowboarding
There are two things you must do as a Barrie resident: love winter, and hit the slopes! Located near Ski Snow Valley, Horseshoe Resort, Mount St. Louis Moonstone, and Blue Mountain, there is no shortage of snow options nearby. In fact, the Blue Mountain Resort is one of the best in Ontario and the largest around, with a total of 42 runs, powered by 13 lifts. Snow Valley is located just 20 minutes northwest of Barrie and is perfect for families looking to get outside. Choose from skiing, snowshoeing or tubing all winter long.
Relaxing Things to Do in Barrie on the Weekend
With a rich history and deep culture, history buffs can enjoy weekends in Barrie, too! You can do this by visiting the Spirit Catcher, which is part of the permanent collection at the MacLaren Art Centre. The MacLaren Art Centre, located in the city centre is one of three galleries in the city, displaying both Canadian and international artwork. In total, there are more than 27,000 works on display, and the galleries also regularly host exhibits and special events. If you aren’t into galleries, learn about the history of Barrie at the Simcoe County Museum. With 16 heritage buildings on display, there is a lot to learn and explore as you go on your museum tour.
Weekends in Barrie are anything but dull. From good food, good fun, waterfront activities to spending time on the slopes, the list of ways to spend your Saturday and Sunday is never-ending.