SPEND THIS SUMMER in your backyard! - OntariosWestCoast.ca - Ontario's West Coast
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OntariosWestCoast.ca
HURON COUNTY
SPEND THIS
SUMMER
in your backyard!
ONTARIOSWESTCOAST.CA
INDEX Welcome . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Our Communities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Accommodations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Restaurants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Patios & Decks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Drive-in Dining . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Beer & Wine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Fresh from the Farm . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
On the Water . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Beaches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Trails . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Golf . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Cycling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Fishing & Paddling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Outdoor Recreation . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Indoor Recreation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Museum & Historic Sites . . . . . . . . 23
Heritage Walking Tours . . . . . . . . . 24
Art Galleries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Family Friendly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Sample Itineraries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Tour Operators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Tourism Partners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
IT’S TIME TO EXPLORE
YOUR OWN BACKYARD
This summer provides a Things are constantly changing
perfect opportunity to explore this year and it is impossible to
Huron County. Use the stay up-to-date with a printed
information provided in this guide. Please be sure to
guide as your starting point to always check online for the
plan a day out, a weekend most up-to-date opening
getaway, or as a reminder of information for any businesses
all of the great outdoor or places you wish to visit this
amenities, amazing food, arts summer.
and culture, and recreational
activities available on Enjoy your summer and be
Ontario’s West Coast. There is amazed at what you’ll find in
so much more than can your backyard!
possibly fit in one guide.
#OntariosWestCoast
ONTARIOSWESTCOAST.CA PAGE 3
EXPLORE OUR
COMMUNITIES
Tour Huron County’s scenic agricultural landscape and stop
to visit our lively towns and charming villages. Here are just a
few of the communities ready for you to discover:
BAYFIELD
Known for its boutique accommodations,
charming coastal style and artistic vibe. Visit the
sandy beach, or take a stroll down Main Street, a
Heritage Conservation District, to enjoy the
many shops, artists’ studios, and award-winning
restaurants.
BLYTH
The historic village of Blyth exudes Victorian
charm. Stroll down Queen Street to feel the
history and make your way to the world-famous
Blyth Festival Theatre, the heart of the village.
The southeast corner of Blyth is where you’ll
find the distinctive architecture of Cowbell
Brewing Co.
BRUSSELS
Visit the idyllic Village of Brussels and
appreciate the beautiful heritage homes and
buildings located throughout its historic
downtown. While there, stop by the Four Winds
Barn, a 160 year-old masterpiece that has
lovingly been recreated to host a variety of
special events.
CLINTON
Known as Canada’s Home of RADAR due to its
association with the RCAF Station during World
War II. Clinton offers a broad range of
recreational opportunities that include the CNR
School Car on Wheels Museum, Clinton
Raceway, Gateway Casino and the Clinton
Conservation Area.
PAGE 4 EXPLORE YOUR BACKYARD
EXETER At the southern end of Huron County lies the town of Exeter, home to a wonderful selection of restaurants and shops. History buffs will enjoy strolling Main Street, lined with beautiful 19th century buildings, while nature lovers can spend the day on the South Huron Trail in search of a local curiosity – the white squirrel! GODERICH Nicknamed the “Prettiest Town in Canada,” Goderich is the largest centre in Huron County. The town sits atop the bluffs overlooking Lake Huron and is renowned for its beautiful heritage architecture, breathtaking sunsets, and unique downtown Square that’s actually an octagon. The largest salt mine in the world extends under Lake Huron from Goderich harbour. SEAFORTH Seaforth’s bustling Main Street features a mix of locally-owned small businesses. While shopping, take some time to admire its beautiful heritage buildings and 19th century façades. This year will launch the makeover of Seaforth’s Downtown Back- alleys with their beautiful art displays and wall murals. WINGHAM The town of Wingham is located along the scenic banks of the Maitland River. This small town has played a large role in Canadian arts and culture. It is the birthplace of Nobel Prize Winner for Literature, Alice Munro and serves as a backdrop to some of her famous stories. It is also the home of CKNX Radio (founded in 1926) the station’s Saturday Night Barn Dance was one of the most popular and influential radio programs in Ontario. ONTARIOSWESTCOAST.CA PAGE 5
ACCOMMODATIONS
Whether it’s an overnighter to visit friends, a romantic
weekend getaway, or a week or two of rest and relaxation,
Huron County offers a variety of accommodation options for
everyone of your getaway needs, budget or travel style.
BOUTIQUE HOTELS & INNS
Quaint luxury accommodations in the heart of
heritage downtowns, our boutique properties are
sure to provide the ultimate relaxing getaway.
MOTELS
Looking for an affordable getaway at the lake? Our
roadside motels are a great place to stay while
taking advantage of all the fun family things to do
on Ontario’s West Coast.
BED & BREAKFASTS
Staying in bed and breakfast accommodations
connect you with knowledgeable hosts that are
ready to provide a local touch – adding a small town
concierge approach to your visit.
SHORT-TERM RENTALS
Looking to get away for a few days or a few weeks?
Rent a single room in someone’s home or an entire
Lakefront cottage for your family.
HURON COUNTY OFFERS
GREAT CAMPING
Canadian summer is all about getting
outdoors and camping is a great way
to enjoy Ontario’s West Coast. Pitch
a tent for the weekend or park your
RV on a full-service site – our local
campgrounds offer various camping
experiences and activities for you
and your family!
PAGE 6 EXPLORE YOUR BACKYARD
RESTAURANTS
Catering to all tastes, Huron County’s chefs are ready to
serve flavour-packed dishes, delightful home-baked goods
and local brews. Find a quick snack, a picnic lunch or a full-
course dining adventure – the options on Ontario’s West
Coast are endlessly delicious!
RESTAURANTS
From casual fine dining and ethnic cuisine to country truck stops and local
pubs, our chefs are ready to provide you with a delicious dining
experience! Sample and savour the local flavour on Ontario’s West Coast!
CAFES & BAKERIES
Make it a habit to drop by our local cafes and bakeries that pride
themselves on fresh pastry delights and locally brewed coffee. A warm
and fragrant welcome awaits!
QUICK BITES
After a long day at the
beach or an outdoor
adventure, some visitors
are looking for a quick
bite. We have a variety of
drive-in, deli-style and fast
food establishments
ready to serve you!
* photos by Dianne Brandon
ONTARIOSWESTCOAST.CA PAGE 7
PATIOS & DECKS
Summertime is patio time! Pick your perfect patio from the
list below or find your own favourite, as many restaurants
have expanded their patios this summer.
BAYFIELD EXETER
Albion Hotel The Barn Restaurant & Pub
1 Main St. N., Bayfield at Exeter Golf Club
albionbayfield.com 40374 Kirkton Rd., Centralia
exetergolfclub.ca/the-barn
Bayfield Brewing Co.’s
Public House Crabby Joe’s
14 Main St. N., Bayfield 58 Main St. N., Exeter
Bayfieldbrewingco.com crabbyjoes.com
Black Dog Village Pub & Eddington’s of Exeter
Bistro 527 Main St. S., Exeter
5 Main St. N., Bayfield eddingtons.ca
blackdogpubbistro.ca
GODERICH
The Dock’s Restaurant & Bar Beach Street Station
76559 Bluewater Hwy., Bayfield 2 Beach St., Goderich
docksrestaurantbar.com beachstreetstation.com
The Lake House of Bayfield Park House Restaurant
21 Main St. N., Bayfield 168 West St., Goderich
lakehouseofbayfield.com parkhouserestaurant.com
BLYTH Part II Bistro
Cowbell Brewing Co. 10 Courthouse Square, Goderich
40035 Blyth Rd., Blyth part2bistro.ca
cowbellbrewing.com
* photo by of Dianne Brandon
PAGE 8 EXPLORE YOUR BACKYARD
DRIVE-IN DINING
Huron County is home to six independently-owned vintage
drive-in restaurant and hamburger stands. Each of them have
their own unique specialties but the one thing they have in
common is that they continue to serve quality locally-sourced
grilled summertime standards.
WOODLAND DRIVE-IN FREEZE KING
17 Mill Rd., Bayfield 42566 Huron Rd. (Hwy. #8),
facebook.com/Woodland-Drive-In Seaforth
FARMER’S DELL SKY RANCH DRIVE-IN
6 London Rd. (Hwy. #4), Brucefield 81669 Bluewater Hwy., Goderich
facebook.com/farmersdell2018 facebook.com/skyranchdrivein
WILLY’S BURGER BAR FROSTY QUEEN
267 Huron St (Hwy. #8), Clinton 143 Josephine St., Wingham
facebook.com/willysburgerbar facebook.com/
frostyqueenandfrostypitaplace
* photo above courtesy of Woodlands Drive-In
ONTARIOSWESTCOAST.CA PAGE 9
BEER
Ontario’s West Coast has quickly emerged as one of Ontario’s
newest craft beer, cider and wine regions. Use the map on
ontarioswestcoast.ca to plan your strategy for visiting our 7
breweries, 6 wineries and be sure to raise a glass to Ontario’s
West Coast beer and wine producers!
BAD APPLE BREWING HALF HOURS ON EARTH
COMPANY LTD. BREWERY
Located in a century barn and This brewery produces an
surrounded by orchards where they extremely easy to obtain product
grow produce for their recipes. with their online store, retail store
badapplebrewingco.com and availability at across the
province.
STONE HOUSE BREWING CO. halfhoursonearth.com
The Stone House Brewing
Company offers Czech Pilsner, Dark RIVER ROAD BREWING &
Lager, and Bavarian Lager. HOPS
stonehousebrewing.ca Bayfield’s first farm-based
brewery, grows the very
BAYFIELD BREWING CO. ingredients that makes up their
The Bayfield Brewing Co, opened in beloved beverages.
early 2019, in the heart of historic riverroadbrewing.com
downtown Bayfield.
bayfieldbrewingco.com SQUARE BREW
Square Brew produces roughly
COWBELL BREWING CO. 2000L of beer per week in such
Located in Blyth, this award- flavours as Huron County Mango
winning brewery features family- Squad, and Square One.
friendly restaurant, retail store, squarebrewco.com
and entertainment spaces.
cowbellbrewing.com
PAGE 10 EXPLORE YOUR BACKYARDWINE & CIDER
2ND STREETLIGHT ESTATE EAST STREET CIDER CO.
WINERY With a combination of 100%
Planted with five different vines of Ontario apples, innovative ideas,
Cabernet Franc, Baco Noir, Vidal, and a traditional atmosphere, East
Chardonnay and Riesling. Retail Street Cider Co. have managed to
side opened in 2019. craft an easy-drinking cider that all
2ndstreetlightwines.ca can enjoy. eaststreetcider.com
BAYFIELD BERRY FARM MAELSTROM WINERY
WINERY The Landsborough family paved
In addition to its beloved baked the way for wineries in Huron
good, fresh produce, and County, establishing the first in
preserves, the business now offers the county. Today, the family
a collection of fruit wines, ciders, produces over a dozen different
wine coolers and schnapps. wines! maelstromwinery.ca
bayfieldberryfarm.on.ca
SCHATZ WINERY,
CORNERFIELD WINE CO. HESSENLAND INN
Located on a 175 year-old farm After having perfected the
and employing traditional accommodation side of
winemaking processes in their half Hessenland Inn, the Ihrig family
dozen wine offerings. was ready to add a new facet to
cornerfieldwineco.com their business. With all hands on
deck, the family carried out their
DARK HORSE ESTATE WINERY first harvest in October 2017-
Planted with over 22,000 vines producing fan favourites such as
consisting of such varieties as Frontenac Blanc and Petite Pearl.
Cabernet Franc, Chardonnay, hessenland.com
Riesling, Baco Noir, Vidal, and
Marquette.
darkhorseestatewinery.com
ONTARIOSWESTCOAST.CA PAGE 11FRESH FROM THE FARM
Finding local, fresh and delicious food doesn’t get any easier
than it does in Huron County. As one of the largest food
producing regions in Ontario, the diversity of food products
available throughout the year is remarkable. Visit
ontarioswestcoast.ca for a list of retail outlets where you
can purchase directly from the producers.
THURSDAYS
Blyth Outdoor Market Brussels Farmers’ Market
4 to 8 pm, July to October Four Winds Wedding & Event
facebook.com/ Barn
blythoutdoormarket 2 to 6 pm, May to October
facebook.com/
Seaforth Community Brusselsfarmersmarket
Market
Seaforth Agriplex SATURDAYS
3 to 7 pm, June to October Goderich Farmers’ Market
facebook.com/Seaforth- Courthouse Square/South
Community-Market Street/Montreal Street
8 am to noon, May to October
FRIDAYS facebook.com/
Bayfield Farmers’ Market FarmersMarketGoderichBIA
Online Store/Clan Gregor
Square *Times and opening and closing
3 to 7 pm, May to October dates subject to change. Please
facebook.com/ confirm time and location before
bayfieldfarmersmarket heading out.
PAGE 12 EXPLORE YOUR BACKYARDON THE WATER
SAIL HURON with a crew of 360 BIKES ‘N BOARDS is
experienced sailors on the 34 foot located on the Square in Goderich
sailboat, Stir Crazy, for a afternoon and offers kayak rentals.
cruise on Lake Huron from Bayfield. 360bikesnboards.com
sailhuron.com
THE YOGA DEN offers a variety
XTREME WATER SPORTS in of Stand Up Paddle Board classes
Grand Bend offers Seadoos™, Jet and camps in Goderich, including
Skis™ and Waverunners™ for rent, SUP Yoga, SUP fitness, and SUP
as well as an exclusive jet boat Kids camps. theyogaden.ca
charter service and the latest water
thrill-ride, FlyBoarding! WINDMILL LAKE WAKE &
xtremewatersports.ca ECO PARK offers water activities
for all ages. Try wakeboarding,
PARASAIL over Grand Bend paddle boarding, canoeing,
beach and beautiful Lake Huron kayaking and pedal boating on a
with the assistance of the skilled 40-acre private lake.
and experienced staff of Grand windmill-lake.ca
Bend Parasail.
grandbendparasail.com
Exeter Splash Zone
SPLASH PADS 2-70 Andrew St., Exeter
*Please confirm opening and times southhuron.ca
with local municipality
Victoria Park Splash Pad
Bayfield (Lions) Splash Pad 80 Victoria St. N, Goderich
6 The Square, Bayfield goderich.ca
municipalityofbluewater.ca
Wingham Splash Pad
Clinton Children’s Splash Pad 281 William St., Wingham
85 Park Lane, Clinton northhuron.ca
centralhuron.caBEACHES
There’s no match to the feeling of being
at the beach. Huron County has 14
public beaches located along 100 km of
scenic shoreline.
AMBERLEY BEACH
This natural and secluded beach is
somewhat rocky with grassy patches
and small trees for shade.
ASHFIELD PARK
A large, secluded beach. Take the steep
and winding road down to the parking
area. A small pavilion is located at top
of the hill.
PORT ALBERT BEACH
Port Albert offers a mid-sized sandy
beach. The river flowing into the lake
offers excellent fishing opportunities.
POINT FARMS
PROVINCIAL PARK
This large, sandy beach is located within
Point Farms Provincial Park. Admission
fee is required for day use.
SUNSET BEACH
A long path followed by stairs leads to
the rocky beach and provides excellent
opportunities for birdwatchers.
GODERICH MAIN BEACH
A large sandy beach featuring a
boardwalk, snack bar and playground,
making this an excellent choice for
families.
* Please note that changing water levels
can have an impact on beaches.
PAGE 14 EXPLORE YOUR BACKYARDST. CHRISTOPHER’S BEACH HOWARD STREET BEACH
A pavilion, playground and picnic This beach is reached by a
tables make this rocky beach an staircase, which leads to the white
excellent location for lakefront sand stretching along the village’s
picnics and family gatherings. coastline.
ROTARY COVE BEACH HOUSTON HEIGHTS BEACH
A large sandy beach, this location This secluded location offers
also offers picnic tables, benches, a access by way of a staircase down
snack bar, trees for shade, and a to the sandy shores and a pavilion
large playground for kids. in a park-like setting.
BLACK’S POINT ROAD PORT BLAKE PARK BEACH
BEACH A sandy beach that is often busy
This natural area, popular with bird with visitors, the location offers a
watchers, offers a wide beach with picnic shelter and playground.
lots of grassy areas and small Admission fee is required.
bushes.
GRAND BEND BEACH
BAYFIELD PIER BEACH The largest beach on the Huron
Bayfield’s Main Beach is located shoreline. Popular with visitors, this
next to the pier and marina, visitors beach is often busy and offers
can rent canoes and kayaks. recreational opportunities.
HURON BEACH INFO
Huron Perth Public Health (HPPH) monitors all public
beaches in Perth and Huron Counties by testing the water for
unsafe bacteria. For up-to-date information on water
quality and beach openings, please check hpph.ca.TRAILS
This summer explore one (or more!) of the 30+ hiking trails
available for all ages and skill levels. Here are a few
favourites to get you started:
MAITLAND TRAIL WAWANOSH VALLEY
Follow the 49 km trail from CONSERVATION AREA
Goderich to Auburn along the The Conservation Area offers a
beautiful, winding route of the scenic 3 km trail loop that crosses
lower Maitland River. the Belgrave Creek, passes through
MaitlandTrail.ca meadows with hedgerow plantings
and down a steep hill to the cedar
SAWMILL TRAIL lowlands at the river. mvca.on.ca
One of the Bayfield River Valley
Trails, the 2 km Sawmill Trail BANNOCKBURN
features a range of historical and CONSERVATION AREA
natural points of interest. The 1 km trail loop located on
BayfieldTrails.com Bannockburn Line is home to six
different natural communities: wet
SOUTH HURON TRAIL meadow, white cedar, deciduous
The 8 km all-season trail winds forest, marsh, old field and mixed
through the scenic Ausable River scrub. abca.on.ca
Valley between MacNaughton Park
in Exeter and Morrison Dam
Conservation Area. abca.on.ca
HURON HIKING GUIDE
Check out the Huron County Hiking Guide for a full list of trails in
Huron County. Pick up a copy at local tourism centres or download
a digital copy at ontarioswestcoast.caGOLF
Ontario’s West Coast offers 10 different courses to choose
from. While each course offers its own distinct course design,
challenges, and hazards, the one thing they all share in
common is the picturesque landscapes we’re famous for.
BLUEWATER GOLF COURSE SEAFORTH GOLF &
& CAMPGROUND COUNTRY CLUB
77416 Bluewater Hwy., Bayfield 42990 Front Rd., Seaforth
bluewatergolfandcamp.ca seaforthgolf.com
EXETER GOLF CLUB SUNSET GOLF CLUB
40374 Kirkton Rd., Centralia 33937 Golf Course Rd., Goderich
exetergolfclub.ca sunsetgolfclub.com
IRONWOOD GOLF CLUB WHITE SQUIRREL GOLF
70969 Morrison Line, Exeter CLUB
golfnorth.ca/ironwood 72538 Bluewater Hwy., Zurich
whitesquirrelgolfclub.com
THE MAITLAND
25 North Harbour Rd. E., Goderich WINGHAM GOLF &
themaitland.com CURLING CLUB
40292 Jamestown Rd., RR4,
OAKWOOD RESORT GOLF Wingham
COURSE facebook.com/WinghamGolfCurlin
70671 Bluewater Hwy., gClub
Grand Bend
oakwoodresort.ca WOODLANDS LINKS GOLF
CLUB
37858 Huron Rd. (Hwy 8), Clinton
woodlandslinks.com
ONTARIOSWESTCOAST.CA PAGE 17CYCLING
Experience beautiful, rural scenery and diverse landscapes
on a cycling adventure through Huron County!
BIKE RENTALS Goderich Bike Shop offers bike
rentals available in-store, at the
Blyth Bike Tours offers bike beach, or delivered to your cottage
rentals and tours. Off-season by or home. goderichbikeshop.com
request. blythbiketours.com
Bayfield Archives & Heritage
360 Bikes ’n Boards rents bikes Centre offers Quadra-cycle rentals
and paddle boards to explore the for $20 per hour. The quads are a
Lake Huron coastline, waterfront big hit with people visiting and a
and the Town of Goderich. fun way of touring the village with
360bikesnboards.com surprise spectacular views of Lake
Huron. bayfieldhistorical.ca
OFF-ROAD CYCLING
The Goderich to Guelph Rail Trail, known as the
G2G, runs 127 km of multi-use green space along
the former CPR railway line. The G2G Rail Trail
offers a large and safe corridor to bike on for all
ages and experience levels. g2grailtrail.com
A new Huron County Cycling Guide is coming soon.
Watch
PAGE 18
for it at ontarioswestcoast.ca EXPLORE YOUR BACKYARDFISHING & PADDLING From anglers looking to reel in the catch of a lifetime, to families just looking for some fun on the water, the opportunities for fishing in Huron County are endless. Fly Fitters provides anglers of all levels with guided fly fishing, spey fishing and sport fishing adventures on the Maitland, Bayfield and Saugeen Rivers. flyfitters.ca Maitland Valley Fishing Charters provides services to individuals and small groups for sport fishing on Lake Huron from early May through the end of September. maitlandvalleyfishing.com Enjoy fully-guided fishing charters for salmon, trout and walleye using the best fishing equipment with Grand Bend Fishing Charters. Charters run April through September. grandbendfishingcharters.com HURON COUNTY FISHING Check out the Huron County Fishing Guide for a comprehensive overview of angling in Huron County at ontarioswestcoast.ca.
Whether canoeing or kayaking, Huron County offers a variety of paddling opportunities ranging from flat water rows to mild white water adventures. Rent a canoe or kayak from the Bayfield Marina and paddle up the mouth of the Bayfield River. If the lake is calm, paddle out past the pier walls to open water. municipalityofbluewater.ca/Public/Bluewater-Marina-in- Bayfield HURON COUNTY PADDLING GUIDE Check out the Huron County Paddling Guide for a comprehensive overview of paddling in Huron County at ontarioswestcoast.ca. THE PORT ALBERT FISHWAY Located in Port Albert, this man-made structure allows fish to by-pass obstructions to travel upstream on the Nine Mile River. Fish jumping can be viewed from late March until early May, with peak runs occurring the last 2 weeks in April. In the fall, jumping occurs from mid-September until late November, with the peak occurring during October and early November.
OUTDOOR RECREATION CLINTON RACEWAY & CASINO Bring the whole gang to Ontario’s family track, Clinton Raceway & Casino for a day of exciting harness racing! Check out the 1/2 mile track, picnic areas, swimming pool, slots and more. clintonraceway.com THE EDGE OF WALTON CHALLENGE Discover your limits at The Edge of Walton Challenge Course. The outdoor facility offers rope climbing, high tower and mountain biking adventures. edgeofwalton.ca WALTON RACEWAY Walton Raceway is home to the longest running motocross tracks in Canada and hosts the Canadian Motocross Grand National Championship. waltonraceway.ca GRAND BEND MOTORPLEX One of Canada’s premier racing facilities, the Grand Bend Motorplex is a multi-use sports facility that features Canada’s largest 1/4 mile drag racing facility. grandbendmotorplex.ca GRAND BEND SPORT PARACHUTING CENTRE At the Grand Bend Sport Parachuting Centre Inc., a first jump is a free-fall skydive with two instructors assisting, until the parachute is activated. skydivegrandbend.com ONTARIOSWESTCOAST.CA PAGE 21
INDOOR RECREATION
ALL-IN SKATEPARK LITTLE BOWL
Located in Zurich, Southwestern Family fun with 12 lanes of 5-pin
Ontario’s biggest and best Indoor bowling for fun and parties in
skatepark for BMX, scooters and Goderich. Fully licensed.
boards. allinactionsports.com littlebowl.ca
CHUCK IT GODERICH MAITLAND VALLEY GROTTO
This axe throwing facility is open to An indoor bouldering gym located
anyone ages 12 and up - those in Goderich. Bouldering is one of
between 12 and 17 years old the most efficient ways to learn
require a parent/guardian. rock climbing techniques.
chuckitgoderich.com maitlandvalleygrotto.com
ESCAPE ROOM GODERICH TOWN & COUNTRY
Test your teamwork skills as you BOWLING LANES
work through puzzles and clues to Located in Zurich, offering 5-Pin
escape various rooms. Bowling in a small-town, friendly
escaperoomgoderich.ca atmosphere.
townandcountrybowling.com
FORE ON THE FLOOR
Enjoy state of the art golf simulator GODERICH-HURON &
and virtual driving range. HD racing CENTRAL HURON YMCA
simulator lets you choose your car, The Goderich-Huron YMCA and
choose your track, and choose your Central Huron YMCA offer annual
thrill. foreonthefloor.ca memberships and visitor day
passes. ymcaswo.ca
ICECULTURE
Book a 90-minute guided tour in * Businesses listed may not be able
Hensall to see the process behind to open in 2020. Please check online
ice sculpture creation. for most up-to-date information.
iceculture.com
* photo courtesy of
Maitland Valley Grotto
PAGE 22 EXPLORE YOUR BACKYARDMUSEUMS & HISTORIC SITES
* Some museums may not be able to open in 2020.
Please check online for most up-to-date information.
HURON COUNTY MUSEUM CNR SCHOOL CAR ON
110 North St., Goderich WHEELS MUSEUM
Permanent and temporary exhibits 76 Victoria Terrace, Clinton
that depict Huron County’s history Visit a century old wooden railcar
and culture. that was part of Northern Ontario’s
huroncounty.museum.ca railcar school system.
centralhuron.com/schoolcar
HURON HISTORIC GAOL
181 Victoria St., Goderich GAIRBRAID
A national Historic Site, Huron 81501 River Ridge Cres., Goderich
Historic Gaol served as the County The burial plot of Goderich
Jail from its opening in 1841 until founder, Dr. William “Tiger” Dunlop
closure in 1972. is located along the Maitland Trail
huroncounty.museum.ca on land where he planned to build
a new town named Gairbraid.
BAYFIELD ARCHIVES & huroncounty.museum.ca/gairbraid
HERITAGE CENTRE
20 Main St. N., Bayfield VAN EGMOND HOUSE
The Heritage Centre features 80 Kippen Rd., Egmondville
artefacts and short videos that Country manor house built in 1846
showcase Bayfield’s history. has been carefully restored and
bayfieldhistorical.ca furnished with period appropriate
furnishings.
ST. JOSEPH HISTORIC PARK facebook.com/vanegmondhouse
33996 Park Ave. at Intersection of
Hwy. 21 and Zurich-Hensall Road
Historical information plaques tell
St. Joseph’s unique French-
Canadian history. *photo courtesy of the Huron
stjosephmuseum.ca County Museum
ONTARIOSWESTCOAST.CA PAGE 23HERITAGE WALKING TOURS
BAYFIELD GODERICH
Wander through Bayfield’s The Goderich Municipal and Marine
heritage district, along tree lined Heritage Committee has put
streets, and past harbour views together a series of four enjoyable
with the Self-Guided Walking Tour scenic walks that explore
booklet ($5) from the Bayfield Goderich’s rich history. goderich.ca
Heritage Centre & Archives or
Village Bookshop. SEAFORTH
bayfieldhistorical.ca Seaforth is a quintessential small
Ontario town, with a story
BRUSSELS stretching back to the early 1850s.
After officially becoming a village huroneast.com
in 1855, Brussels grew into a
prosperous community with its VANASTRA
own railway station, many local Visit the former site of a top secret
industries, several churches and Royal Canadian Air Force training
community groups, and a main base, once used to train over 7,000
street of fine brick blocks. radar technicians and staff for
huroneast.com American, British and Canadian
forces during World War II.
EXETER huroneast.com/blog/tag/vanastra
A leisurely stroll down Exeter’s
Main Street will tell the stories of
the historic family businesses built
by Exeter’s first settlers.
experienceexeter.ca
AUDIO WALKING TOURS
Download one of the Huron County Historic Walking Tours audio
tours from Apple Podcasts and Google Podcasts. Choose from 12
walking tours in Bayfield, Blyth and Goderich. Full list of audio
tours and download links available at: ontarioswestcoast.ca.ART GALLERIES
The beauty of Huron County has inspired countless visual
artists working in all media and styles. Check out some of
their creations along with the work of talented artisans
working in traditional and contemporary crafts.
BAYFIELD FACTS: Fashion Arts &
JMR Collections Creative Textiles Studio
facebook.com/theJMRcollections factsblyth.ca
Main Street Gallery Wild Goose Studio Canada
facebook.com/MainStreetGalleryB facebook.com/wildgoosestudiocan
ayfield ada
Marten Arts Gallery Wonky Frog Studio
facebook.com/MartenArtsGallery facebook.com/WonkyFrogStudio
Patina Studios & Gallery GODERICH
patinastudios.ca Elizabeth’s Art Gallery
elizabethsartgallery.ca
BLYTH
The Blyth Festival Art The Goderich Co-op Gallery
Gallery gcgallery.ca
blythfestival.com/blyth-festival-art-
gallery Reuben R. Sallows Gallery
facebook.com/SallowsGallery
ONTARIOSWESTCOAST.CA PAGE 25FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES
Ontario’s West Coast makes for a great family destination.
Here are few activities we recommend doing with the kids
this summer.
Pack up the car and get ready for Wake & Eco Park. Nestled
this summertime tradition of within 200 acres of forest, the 40-
yesteryear by taking in a acre private lake offers wakeboard
blockbuster under the stars at the & paddling activities are for all ages
Starlite Drive-In Theatre and an Aqua Park, inflatable
outside of Grand Bend. floating obstacle course, for
starlitedriveintheatre.com/GrandB ages 6+. windmill-lake.ca
end
For 30 years, Iceculture has been
After a day enjoying the sand and a major player in the world of ice
surf at Point Farms Provincial carving. Book a 90-minute guided
Park, head across the road to tour to see the processes, hear the
stories and see amazing ice
Point Farms Market for a sculptures take shape.
round of miniature golf topped off iceculture.com
with an ice cream cone. there are
30+ flavours to choose from! Build the family bonds as you enjoy
facebook.com/pointfarms fun outdoor adventure at Edge of
If your kids have a bit of the
The Edge of Walton. Challenge
yourself with rope climbing,
daredevil in them scratch that itch
balancing, and tight rope walking.
with a trip to Windmill Lake edgeofwalton.ca
PAGE 26 EXPLORE YOUR BACKYARDA DAY IN BAYFIELD
YOUR ITINERARY
Start the day by heading out on a Visit the tap room to try a flight of
hike on one of six Bayfield Trails the brewery’s current offerings.
(bayfieldtrails.com). After your hike
stroll Bayfield’s Historic Main There’s no lack of great choices for
Street and visit some of the an exceptional dinner in Bayfield.
galleries and shops. Dine al fresco at Black Dog
Village Pub & Bistro
Grab a quick lunch of fish tacos, (blackdogpubbistro.ca), The
footlong hot dog or poutine at
Lakehouse of Bayfield
Copenhagen’s (lakehouseofbayfield.com)
(faceook.com.copenhagens). Don’t or stay put and go next door to the
forget to save room for a decadent
Bayfield Brewing Co.’s
cupcake from Pink Flamingo
Public House.
Bakery
(thepinkflamingobakery.com) After dinner enjoy one of the world
famous double sunsets at
Spend the hottest part of the
afternoon staying cool at Pioneer Park. Afterwards if
you’re still going strong, enjoy a
Bayfield’s Main Beach. After a night cap on the veranda (weather
few hours at the beach you’ll have
worked up a thirst for a late permitting) of the Bayfield
afternoon beverage at Bayfield Little Inn (littleinn.com).
Brewing Co.
(bayfieldbrewingco.com).
ONTARIOSWESTCOAST.CA PAGE 27A TASTY DAY TOUR
YOUR ITINERARY
Start the day with a great cup of Culbert’s Bakery
coffee. Pick up some beans or a (culbertsbakery.com) for a sweet
fresh brewed cup of one of their snack. All of their products are
signature blends at Shopbike made fresh on the premises the
Coffee Roasters old-fashioned way. The must try is
(shopbikecoffe.com). Head south their world famous cream puff
from Bayfield to Zehr’s Country doughnut.
Market (zehrscountrymarket.ca) For dinner, we suggest taking a
to pick up a fresh baked treat.
leisurely drive to Exeter enjoying
There’s a lot of good pie to be had
the many barn quilts you’ll pass
in Huron County.
along the way. When choosing a
restaurant for dinner, two options
For lunch, we suggest you make a
to consider are Eddington’s of
stop at Cait’s Café in Goderich
(caitscafe.com). You’ll be happy Exeter (eddingtons.ca), which
with anything you choose at Cait’s offers affordable comfort food
Café but we recommend the Blyth prepared from locally sourced
veg sandwich on the in-house made ingredients, or if you’re craving
croissant: Avocado, tomato, Blyth something different, try Exeter
Farm cumin goat cheese, local Thai Cuisine
organic greens, pesto mayo, and (exeterthaicuisine.com). They offer
house-made lime cumin dressing. up an authentic Pad Thai along
with a full menu of other Thai
Walk around The Square a few cuisine favourites. If take-out is
times to work off lunch before your only option, enjoy your meal
heading down West Street to in McNaughton Park and spot
one of Exeter’s famous white
squirrels.
PAGE 28 EXPLORE YOUR BACKYARDOUTDOORSY WEEKEND
YOUR ITINERARY
FRIDAY or Beach Street Station
Arrive at your reserved campsite at (beachstreetstation.com).
Point Farms Provincial Park End your evening sitting around
(ontarioparks.com/park/pointfarms). the campfire or having a leisurely
walk gazing up at the amazing
stars.
SATURDAY
After breakfast at West Street
SUNDAY
Willy’s Start your morning with a bike ride
(weststreetwillyseatery.com), stop
on the Goderich to Guelph
by Shanahan’s
(www.shanahansqualitymeats.com)
Rail Trail (g2grailtrail.com) from
Saltford to Blyth, a 30 km one-way
for everything you need for a picnic
lunch before heading to the trip. Arrange for 519 Tours
Maitland Trail (maitlandtrail.ca). (519tours.ca) to pick you up in
Blyth and bring you back to your
Perhaps start with the Tiger starting point (unless you have it in
Dunlop Heritage Trail which you to do the return trip).
include great views of the Maitland
River and Harbour from Spend the afternoon at Falls
Menesetung Bridge.
Reserve Conservation Area
(mvca.on.ca/camping/falls-reserve-
Refresh after the hike with a stop conservation-area), a 230-acre
at Square Brew natural outdoor playground. Enjoy
(squarebrewco.com) to sample the the trails and swimming in the falls.
local suds before dinner on the
patio. Two local favourites are
Thyme on 21 (thymeon21.com)
* photo courtesy of G2G Rail Trail
ONTARIOSWESTCOAST.CA PAGE 29TOUR OPERATORS
519 Tours lets you choose from a variety of personalized full-day
or half-day tour options with guide and driver for a group of up to
14 people. 519tours.ca
Blyth Bike Tours provides professionally guided bike and walking
tours in the village of Blyth, as well as bike rentals. Scheduled bike
and walking tours run from June to August. blythbiketours.com
Explore Beyond the Shore Experience Tours allow you to
explore the beautiful countryside of Bluewater and beyond.
Adventures include Heritage Tours, Craft Breweries and Wineries
and Farm Tours. explorebeyondtheshore.ca
Take off with Papple Aviation for a scenic, mile-high view of the
County. See the winding Maitland River valley, small towns, or the
Lake Huron coastline. pappleaviation.ca
Wave Limos & Tours offers a wide selection of tours including
beer and wine tours, weddings, anniversaries, concert and game
transportation, as well as custom itineraries. wave.limo
* photo courtesy of Dianne Brandon
PAGE 30 EXPLORE YOUR BACKYARDTOURISM PARTNERS
Visit one of our tourism partner websites or a local tourist
information centre to find out more about what there is to
see and do in Huron County.
Bayfield & Area Chamber of Central Huron Tourist
Commerce Information
villageofbayfield.com 23 Albert St., Clinton. Located in
Millennium Park, behind Town Hall
Blyth BIA Please check for open hours.
blythnow.ca
Goderich Tourist Information
Central Huron BIA Centre
cchbia.ca 91 Hamilton St., Goderich
Please check for open hours.
Exeter BIA goderich.ca
experienceexeter.ca
Huron East Tourist Information
Grand Bend & Area Chamber of 72 Main St. S., Seaforth.
Commerce Located in Town Hall.
grandbendchamber.ca Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 4 pm
Goderich BIA South Huron Welcome Centre
goderichbia.ca 483 Main St. S., Exeter
Please check for open hours.
Zurich District Chamber of
Commerce
zurichontario.com
HURON COUNTY BIZMAP
Looking for businesses located close to you? Want to find out
which restaurants near you deliver? Check out version 1.0 of
Huron County’s new business location service “BizMap“.
ecdev.huroncounty.ca#OntariosWestCoast Facebook: @OntariosWestCoast Instagram: @OntariosWestCoast
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