Meaford, Ontario is situated on the shores of Georgian Bay between Collingwood and Owen Sound.  This beautiful harbour town is known for its annual scarecrow festival and the many breathtaking apple orchards surrounding it.  Meaford is a charming little town that offers both locals and visitors a number of great things to do outdoors.  While Meaford is small, it is home to plenty of great attractions, including a top notch Arts and Culture Centre, as well as amazing trail networks.  Read on to find out about things to do in Meaford! 

Irish Mountain Lookout

Just outside of Meaford, off highway 26, you will find Irish Mountain Lookout.  Only mere steps from the parking lot, you will be welcomed by epic views.  This lookout provides a stunning view over Georgian Bay, Blue Mountain and the countryside down below.  On location, you will also find picnic tables and one of Meaford’s classic big red chairs.

Downtown Meaford

Downtown Meaford you’ll find a number of restaurants, cafes and storefronts to shop in.  This is also where the famous Meaford Hall is located, along with the unique, apple shaped visitor centre.  Downtown displays beautiful architecture and is a great place for a stroll.

Tom Thomson Trail

The Tom Thomson Trail is a trail network that connects Medford and Owen Sound.  This 41km trail is a combination of different terrains, ranging from roadways, to earth packed and gravel roads.  Motorized vehicles are not prohibited on the trail, but it makes a great place for hiking, biking or horseback riding.  The trail is equipped with markers and signage, and mainly takes you through the countryside.  With a number of access points, you can tackle different parts of the trail as you please.

the Georgian Trail

The Georgian Trail is another beautiful pathway the connects Medford to neighbouring communities.  The trail measures in at 34kms and runs through Thornbury and on to Collingwood.  Along the Georgian Trail, you will catch glimpses of picturesque Georgian Bay and Blue Mountain.  The Georgian Trail is great for both walking and biking, as well as cross county skiing in the winter.

The Meaford Hall

The Meaford Hall is a historic building that sits in the heart of downtown.  This beautiful century building has been restored and is a beloved landmark in town.  The Hall is an Arts and Cultural Centre where you can enjoy live performances, music and an art gallery.  Over the years, the Medford Hall has seen some top notch performers.

Beautiful Joe Park

Beautiful Joe Park is named after a dog who once lived in Medford and inspired the book titled, Beautiful Joe.  The park is pet friendly and has a number of monuments and memorials to remember special pets.  Beautiful Joe Park rests on the banks of the Bighead River and is also home to walking trails.

Meaford waterfront

The Meaford waterfront is just steps away from the downtown sector and museum.  The waterfront follows the curve of Georgian Bay and offers great views over the water.  Along the waterfront, you will also find the Meaford Harbour and Marina, as well as lovely parks. 

the Big Red Chair tour

Big red chairs have been placed around Meaford and the municipality, highlighting popular areas to visit.  There are 10 big red chairs and each is setup with an informational panel and a great photo op.  The Big Red Chair Tour is a great way to see all the highlights of Meaford.

the Meaford Museum

The Meaford Museum is found by the waterfront, just a few minute walk from downtown.  The museum celebrates and educates about the areas history.  In the museum, you can find a number of exhibits and artifacts taking you back in time.

Scarecrow Invasion

Scarecrow Invasion is an event put on by a group of volunteers in Meaford.  Over the month of September, scarecrows start popping up all over town.  By the first weekend in October, Meaford becomes completely invaded by scarecrows.  The weekend kicks off with a parade downtown and is followed by a weekend of excitement.

Apple Picking

Meaford is surrounded by rolling countryside and a number of amazing apple orchards.  Each fall, the apple trees around Meaford become rip with countless, juicy apples.  Many of the apple orchards offer a combination of ready to go apples or U-pick apples.  Picking your own apples allows you to go right into the orchards and pick your own apples while enjoying the views.

Ice Formations

During the winter months, the Meaford waterfront often attracts crowds due to it’s unique winter landscapes along Georgian Bay.  In the past, the shores of Meaford have taken on one of a kind ice formations, with turquoise, blue ice washing ashore.  The trees and landscape around the waterfront also often become encased with ice, creating another beautiful site.  There is no said time to experience these views, and they don’t happen every year, but if you get a chance to catch them, they are truly beautiful.

Day Trips From Meaford

Situated right on the edge of Grey County, Meaford makes a great starting point for days trips in the area.  With beautiful Collingwood and Bruce County only a short drive away, there are plenty of places to explore around Meaford.  From Meaford, you can find yourself on a beach, hiking the Bruce Trail or chasing waterfalls.  Take advantage of this beautiful area and get out and adventure!

Click the links below to learn more about each destination.

• Thornbury – 10 minute drive
• Collingwood – 35 minute drive
• Owen Sound Waterfalls – 25 minute drive
• City of Owen Sound – 25 minute drive
• Sauble Beach – 50 minute drive
• Southampton – 55 minute drive
• Chantry Island – 55 minute drive + boat ride
• Wiarton – 55 minute drive
• Port Elgin – 1 hour drive
• Lion’s Head – 1 hour 20 minute drive
• Kincardine – 1 hour 30 minute drive
• Flowerpot Island– 1 hour 45 minute drive + ferry
• Tobermory – 1 hour 45 minute drive
• Goderich – 2 hour drive

 

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