Muskoka is one of Ontario’s most popular vacation destinations, attracting visitors from all over Ontario, and even some Hollywood celebrities! Muskoka is famous for its beautiful lakes, rugged, rocky terrain, extensive forests and wildlife, and for its many charming small towns. Visitors come year-round to enjoy outdoor activities, family attractions, and scenic views. No matter where you are in Muskoka, there is always something interesting nearby to explore, if you can tear yourself away from your rental cottage! To help you plan your trip, here is our guide to the best attractions in Muskoka. Each one is located near a different town, making it easy to discover the region one area at a time.
Best Attractions in Muskoka | Santa’s Village, Bracebridge
Santa’s Village is one of the best attractions in Muskoka and has been a family favourite for many decades, starting in 1955. Located just outside downtown Bracebridge, this 60-acre Christmas-themed amusement park is open throughout the summer months, with the fall Spookacular and Muskoka Christmas events held on fall weekends. The park is designed especially for young children and families, offering a mix of gentle rides, live shows, and interactive activities, and the opportunity to visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus in their summer home!
Although people of all ages will enjoy the park, children between the ages of 2 and 12 are really the focus, and will absolutely love it! Visitors can meet Santa, attend Elf School, take the Elf Sky Challenge on Elves Island, walk through Santa’s Enchanted Forest, and ride the many rides or paddle around in a swan paddle boat. There are dining options there, or you can pack a picnic lunch for the family. It’s easy to spend an entire day here, with all there is to see and do.
While you’re in Bracebridge, be sure to spend some time visiting its lovely downtown shopping area, or exploring some of the other top things to see and do in Bracebridge.
Best Attractions in Muskoka, Huntsville | Arrowhead Provincial Park | Algonquin Park
Huntsville is lucky to be at the hub of many attractions, including two of the most well-known provincial parks, Arrowhead Provincial Park and Algonquin Park, both of which are within 30 minutes of downtown.
Huntsville itself is a lively town with excellent local dining, shopping, and cultural attractions, making it a must-see during your stay in the area. Here are some of the other top things to do around Huntsville while staying at your Muskoka cottage rental.
Arrowhead Provincial Park
If you’re staying near Huntsville, be sure to discover Arrowhead Provincial Park, which is located just a short drive from Huntsville, making it a must-see attraction for nature lovers. The park offers visitors a peaceful getaway in every season. Well-maintained trails make it easy to explore the forest and the motor-free lakes within the park. The park gives visitors a chance to see what the landscape was like before to becoming the bustling summer playground it is throughout Muskoka, and wildlife is abundant within.
In the summer, visitors enjoy hiking, swimming at the various beaches, fishing, canoeing, and picnicking. In the fall, Arrowhead is especially popular for its colourful autumn scenery, and the fall foliage is truly spectacular then! During the winter months, the park becomes famous for its ice skating trail, a 1.3 km winding loop through the forest. If the timing for your visit is right, be sure to check out one of the magical “Fire and Ice Nights” when the trail is lit up with hundreds of tiki torches, for an unforgettable nighttime skating experience.
Algonquin Park
Algonquin Park is the largest provincial park in Ontario, with over 7,653 square kilometres of land to explore. Riddled with trails of varying lengths and over 1500 lakes, the park has been a getaway to Ontario residents for over 130 years. Often used as a multi-day wilderness camping and canoeing destination, the park is a must-visit for anyone truly wishing to get away from civilization for a time. It’s also great for a day trip, for those looking for a shorter wilderness experience! Here’s more information on discovering Algonquin Provincial Park.
Best Attractions in Muskoka | Gravenhurst
Muskoka Steamships and Discovery Centre
Gravenhurst is often called the gateway to Muskoka, and it is best known for its historic Muskoka Steamships. Before the automobile was invented, and the highway system was even thought of, these iconic wooden vessels were the only way to travel to your Muskoka getaway. The ships provided transportation for passengers, mail and freight between the Muskoka Wharf in Gravenhurst and the many resorts, cottages, and homes on the area lakes. Imagine what a true wilderness getaway experience it was in the late 1800’s, when you would arrive at your resort by steamship!
Today, these ships are used for cruising, remaining one of the most relaxing ways to experience Muskoka from the water, departing from the Muskoka Wharf. Visitors can book scenic cruises on Lake Muskoka aboard classic ships like the RMS Segwun, or choose from the varying specialty cruises.
Take advantage of the discounted admission for bearers of steamship cruise tickets, and visit the Discovery Centre, a one-of-a-kind museum, before or after your cruise. If you have children in your group they will absolutely love visiting the Kidzone!
While you’re at the Muskoka Wharf, take some time to linger a bit and stroll the beautiful boardwalk along Lake Muskoka, and visit the unique shops and restaurants located there.
For more information on this lovely town, here’s our guide to the top year-round activities in Gravenhurst, Ontario.
Best Attractions in Muskoka | Dorset | Dorset Lookout Tower | Robinson’s General Store
Dorset is a small village located roughly northeast of Bracebridge and southeast of Huntsville, off Highway 35, north of Minden. Despite the village’s small size, it’s home to two attractions that are worth visiting.
Dorset Lookout Tower
The Dorset Lookout Tower is a former forest fire spotting tower that’s been decommissioned and is now open to the public. Towering 142 metres (465 feet) over Lake of Bays, it offers one of the most impressive views in all of Muskoka. Facilities include picnic sites, a hiking trail, washrooms, a gift shop information kiosk, and a gift shop.
Visitors can climb to the top of the tower if they wish, or just enjoy the view from ground level. Please note that dogs are not permitted on the tower itself, but they’re welcome in the park.
Although the park closes for the winter season, you can always check out the view via the live web-cam year-round.
The lookout is a popular stop for photos and is especially beautiful in the fall, when the leaf change is at its peak.
Robinson’s General Store
One of the best general stores in Ontario, Robinson’s General Store has been in business since 1921, although it’s now under new ownership. This store is larger than a typical general store, including clothing, gifts, hardware, and much more, and is definitely worth a visit while you’re in Dorset.
Best Attractions in Muskoka | Port Carling Wall
Port Carling is a particularly scenic town at the intersection of Lake Rosseau and Lake Muskoka. Its most well-known feature is the Wall – a 111 x 45 foot wall mosaic composed of over 9,000 separate pictures that together form a huge mosaic. As you get closer, you will see that each individual photo captures a moment in time of residents of Port Carling from 1860 – 1960.
Be sure to spend a little time enjoying this lovely town. If you wish to explore further, there’s lots more to see and do in Port Carling!
Discover Muskoka One Town at a Time
Muskoka comprises many unique towns, each with its own attractions and character. From family-friendly theme parks and historic cruises to scenic lookouts and art installations, there is something for every type of traveller. Exploring Muskoka’s various towns allows you to experience everything this vast region has to offer.
Whether you are visiting for a weekend or an entire season, Muskoka provides unforgettable experiences and beautiful surroundings. Take your time, enjoy the scenery, and discover why Muskoka continues to be one of Ontario’s favourite destinations. Start planning your trip to Muskoka today – you won’t be sorry!
