Parry Sound is a beautiful area of Ontario’s Cottage Country, most known for it’s rugged Georgian Bay shoreline and the 30,000 islands within it. It’s one of the world’s largest freshwater archipelagos and the region’s signature attraction. This beautiful scenery inspired many of Tom Thomson’s paintings, and continues to inspire landscape artists to this day. Spectacular scenery is just one reason to visit though – here we’ll list the 10 best things to do in while you’re in the area.
In our opinion, the best way to truly get a feel for the area is by staying in a private vacation rental. As a trusted Ontario cottage rental agency, we represent a number of Parry Sound area cottage rentals, so we’re sure you’ll find one that’s just perfect for you to use as your home base while you explore!
Where is Parry Sound District?
Parry Sound is encompassed by an area that starts just south of the Town of Parry Sound, north to French River Provincial Park, and east to Highway 11. Larger towns include Parry Sound, McDougall, McKellar, South River, Powassan, Sundridge, and Kearney.
To get there, head north from Toronto, and you’ll reach the southern border of the Parry Sound District in about 3 hours. Highway 400 will be your starting point heading north from the city, but after Barrie your specific route will depend on where you’re headed.
If you’re staying in Parry Sound itself, or somewhere near the Georgian Bay coastline, you’ll be best to stay on Highway 400 as it heads northwest once you’ve passed Barrie. If you’re staying north of Huntsville, closer to Highway 11, then Highway 11 (straight north) is the route to take once it veers off from Highway 400.
Once you’ve settled in and explored your vacation rental and it’s surroundings, it’s time to plan some activities! Here are the 10 best ways to experience Parry Sound.
10 Best Things to Do in Parry Sound
1. Killbear Provincial Park
Probably the area’s premiere must-do attraction, and the most well-known Provincial Park in the area, perched on the western shore of Georgian Bay. Enjoy sandy beaches, rugged Georgian Bay shoreline, swimming, hiking and spectacular sunsets. The Lookout Point Trail and Lighthouse Point Trail are the two hiking trails, and they are both recommended. For more information on this lovely park, here’s our essential guide to Killbear Provincial Park.
2. 30,000 Islands Boat Cruise
Island Queen Cruises offers narrated cruises through Georgian Bay’s famous island archipelago in a modern 132’ cruise ship specifically designed to be suitable to explore the remote waterways and get close to the islands in Georgian Bay.
Several different types of cruises are available, ranging from 2 hour morning cruises to Island Adventure Tours. This is one of the easiest ways for visitors to experience the Georgian Bay landscape from the water!
3. Tower Hill Lookout
Visit the Tower Hill Heritage Garden overlooking Parry Sound on Georgian Bay, and climb the historic lookout tower for panoramic views of the area.
4. Waubuno Beach
Waubuno Beach is one of two beaches in the Town of Parry Sound, known to locals mainly as “New Town Beach”. The beach’s official name is derived from the Algonquin word for “black magician” or “sorcerer”.
Waubuno Beach is a large sandy beach along the Georgian Bay shoreline, off Prospect Street. There is lifeguard supervised swimming in a roped off swimming area, making this a great place for families. Kids will also enjoy the playground, and there’s a snack bar, beach volleyball courts, washrooms and change facilities, and free parking.
5. Explore the Georgian Bay coastline by kayak or canoe
The region is particularly well suited to paddling, with countless islands, rocky shorelines and sheltered bays. Bring your kayaks and canoes, and set out on your own to explore, or consider taking a tour with an experienced guide at Georgian Bay Tours.
6. Visit the Bobby Orr Hall of Fame in Parry Sound
The Bobby Orr Hall Of Fame celebrates Parry Sound’s famous hockey legend in a newly redesigned sleek and modern setting featuring interactive exhibits and memorabilia.
This is a great rainy-day option and particularly popular with families. The interactive hockey exhibits will be particularly fun for kids from 1-90! While you’re in Parry Sound, here are the top things to do in downtown Parry Sound.
7. Enjoy a Performance at the Charles W. Stockey Centre
The Charles W. Stockey Centre is right beside the Bobby Orr Hall of Fame, in a beautiful 3.5 acre waterfront location overlooking Georgian Bay. The 400-seat venue with amazing acoustics hosts performances of all genres of music, live theatre, children’s performances and much more.
8. Take a seaplane tour over Georgian Bay
For a memorable trip that’s a bit more of a splurge, Georgian Bay Airways Ltd. offers scenic flights over the islands and waterways from May to October. It’s probably one of the best ways to appreciate just how extensive the 30,000 Islands really are. For even more stunning views, visit during the fall when leaves are changing!
9. Explore the Georgian Bay Biosphere Reserve
This UNESCO recognized reserve is the best way to truly experience the natural ecosystem of the area. Enjoy a visit to the Georgian Bay Biosphere Reserve, which is both fun and educational for the whole family.
10. View the Night Sky
Far from city lights, on clear nights you’ll be in a great place for night sky viewing! The Sky Tonight has helpful information on what you might be able to see on a given night in the Parry Sound District. If timing is right, you may even be able to see the Northern Lights. Bring your binoculars and telescopes!
More Activities to Enjoy While in Parry Sound District
Family Friendly Activities in Parry Sound
Top Winter Activities in Parry Sound
Exploring Oastler Lake Provincial Park
Enjoy a Delicious Meal at these Popular Parry Sound Restaurants
Parry Sound District is the perfect location for outdoor adventure seekers, artists seeking inspiration, or people just looking to relax and unwind at their own private vacation rental. It’s a very popular location for those who enjoy the Ontario pastime of “cottaging”, at any time of year. There are many things to keep you occupied, and these are just a sampling. Book your Parry Sound vacation rental today, and start planning your trip!
