Top reasons to visit Barrie
- Thrilling Outdoor Activities: Barrie is a haven for sports enthusiasts, offering skiing, hiking, and various outdoor adventures.
- Scenic Waterfront: The picturesque shores of Lake Simcoe provide a perfect backdrop for relaxation and exploration.
- Vibrant Downtown: Experience charming shops, eateries, and cultural attractions in Barrie's lively downtown area.
- Family-Friendly Attractions: South Barrie features numerous parks and activities suitable for visitors of all ages.
- Diverse Accommodations: Enjoy a range of lodging options, from comfortable hotels to luxurious resorts, ensuring a pleasant stay.
Find great hotels in Barrie
Barrie offers a diverse selection of accommodations, from comfortable hotels to luxurious resorts, catering to adventurers, families, and business travellers alike. Whether you seek a relaxing vacation experience or convenient amenities, you'll find a variety of options, including well-reviewed hotels and spacious suites. Discover the charm of Barrie with excellent facilities like the Quality Inn, ensuring a memorable stay in this picturesque Canadian city.
- Monte Carlo Inn Barrie Suites: This 3-star hotel embodies a blend of comfort and adventure, making it an excellent choice for families and business travellers alike. Situated in Barrie, the Monte Carlo Inn offers a range of recreational activities both onsite and nearby, including skiing, parasailing, and sailing. Families will appreciate the child-friendly amenities, such as cribs and sledding options, ensuring a delightful stay for guests of all ages. With a guest rating of 8.0 out of 10, this hotel stands out for its commitment to providing a warm and welcoming environment.
- Super 8 by Wyndham Barrie South: Ideal for budget-conscious travellers, this hotel offers a practical base for those seeking adventure and business facilities. Located in Barrie, the Super 8 features access to various outdoor activities, including snowshoeing, hiking, and kayaking, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the region. The hotel’s relaxed atmosphere makes it a perfect retreat after a day of exploration, with comfortable accommodations designed for a restful night’s sleep.
- Travelodge by Wyndham Barrie: Another budget-friendly option, Travelodge by Wyndham Barrie combines convenience with a variety of recreational pursuits. Situated in Barrie, this hotel provides access to thrilling activities such as waterskiing, snowboarding, and swimming, catering to the adventurous spirit. With its straightforward amenities and central location, it serves as a practical choice for those balancing work and leisure during their stay in the area.
Where to stay near Barrie
Exploring Barrie, Ontario, promises a delightful mix of adventure and relaxation. The vibrant downtown area offers charming shops and eateries, while the scenic shores of Lake Simcoe invite outdoor activities. Venture into South Barrie for family-friendly attractions and recreational parks. The surrounding regions provide a rich historical atmosphere, making it perfect for both relaxation and exploration. Whether you're seeking sunny weather or engaging sports, Barrie is an ideal destination for a memorable holiday.
- Innisfil: Situated a mere 11km from Barrie, Innisfil is a charming city known for its stunning outdoor experiences and picturesque scenery. While visitor numbers are fairly consistent year-round, the peak season occurs between June and August, making it an ideal time for travellers seeking romantic getaways or scenic adventures. Innisfil boasts a variety of engaging activities, including access to resorts, ski facilities, and golf courses. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the nearby lake, parks, and nature reserves that offer tranquil settings for relaxation and exploration.
- Oro-Medonte: Approximately 21km from Barrie lies Oro-Medonte, a vibrant city that caters to adventure seekers and sports enthusiasts alike. Although visitor arrivals are relatively stable throughout the year, the busiest months are during the summer. Oro-Medonte is particularly popular for its ski resorts and adventure sports, making it a prime location for outdoor activities. The close proximity to beautiful lakes, a national state park, and urban parks enhances the area's appeal, offering plenty of opportunities for nature walks and thrilling exploits.
- Midhurst: Located just 8km from Barrie, the quaint village of Midhurst is perfect for those seeking an adventurous escape. With visitor numbers peaking in the summer months, this charming locale is renowned for its sports and skiing opportunities. Midhurst features various engaging activities, including access to ski fields and resorts. The nearby lake, urban parks, and a modern college university add to the village's allure, ensuring visitors have a well-rounded experience filled with both excitement and relaxation.
Things to do in Barrie
Shopping
The nearest shopping destination is Georgian Mall, featuring a variety of stores for clothing, electronics, and gifts. If you’re up for a drive, head to the vibrant downtown market, where local artisans sell unique souvenirs and handmade crafts that reflect the region's culture.
Recreation
In Barrie, the Body Bliss Spa offers a serene atmosphere with a range of treatments, from massages to facials, designed to rejuvenate your spirit. For a unique experience, visit the Horseshoe Resort for outdoor wellness activities, including yoga sessions and nature walks amidst picturesque landscapes.
Adventure
Explore the stunning landscapes at Snow Valley Ski Resort, where you can ski or snowboard down varied slopes. In summer, enjoy mountain biking trails that wind through scenic forests, offering an exhilarating experience for outdoor enthusiasts.
Experience thrilling watersports at Lake Simcoe, with options for jet skiing, paddleboarding, and kayaking. The clear waters and beautiful surroundings create a vibrant atmosphere for adventure seekers.
For a unique experience, visit the Barrie Adventure Park, featuring an aerial park with zip lines and treetop challenges that test your agility and courage amid nature's beauty.
Nightlife
Explore the vibrant nightlife at the Foxx Lounge on Dunlop Street, where you can enjoy live DJ sets and dance the night away. For a more relaxed vibe, visit the Barrie Craft Beer and Cider Co. on Collier Street, sampling local brews in a welcoming atmosphere.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Barrie
To save money during your visit to Barrie, consider travelling in the off-peak months of March to April and December for lower accommodation prices. Enjoy free attractions such as Barrie Centennial Park and the Barrie Arboretum at Sunnidale Park. For public transport, utilise the bus service, which is more economical than driving. Book your stay for Monday, the most affordable day, and use Expedia to compare hotel rates and find package deals that combine accommodation, flights, and activities for added savings.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Barrie are March to April and December, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Barrie is Monday. The most expensive day to stay in Barrie is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia's search tool to customise your preferences, including your budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you prefer. To find the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking in Barrie with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in and around Barrie
Barrie, Ontario, is an ideal destination for sports and outdoor enthusiasts, offering a range of attractions such as urban parks, military museums, and libraries. Visitors can enjoy family-friendly activities and cultural experiences, with the Barrie waterfront being a highlight for relaxation and exploration. Whether you're seeking adventure or a leisurely day out, Barrie has something to cater to every traveller's interests.
- Simcoe County Museum: Located 8km from Barrie, this museum offers a rich glimpse into the history and culture of Simcoe County. With engaging exhibits and historical displays, visitors can immerse themselves in the region's past and appreciate its heritage.
- East Bayfield Community Centre: Situated within Barrie, this leisure centre provides a variety of recreational activities and facilities. It's an ideal place for families and individuals looking to engage in sports, fitness classes, or community events.
- Barrie Centennial Park: This urban park, also located within Barrie, features beautiful green spaces perfect for picnics and outdoor activities. It is a popular spot for families, offering playgrounds, walking trails, and scenic views of the city.
Best time to go to Barrie
The best time to visit Barrie can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Barrie falls in July, when visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Barrie falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Barrie
Flying into Barrie, Ontario, is convenient with several major airports nearby. Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) is approximately 79km away, with notable hotels like the Hilton Toronto Airport Hotel & Suites and Sheraton Gateway Hotel, both located 966m from the airport. Toronto Billy Bishop City Airport (YTZ) is 87km from Barrie, offering luxurious options such as Shangri-La Toronto, just 2km away. For those considering Hamilton John C. Munro Airport (YHM), located 138km from Barrie, The Barracks Inn provides a comfortable stay just 8km from the airport. Transportation services are readily available from these hotels for easy access to the airports.