Owen Sound, Ontario is situated on the shores of Georgian Bay, at the base of the Bruce Peninsula. Owen Sound is one of the only cities in Grey and Bruce County alike. Given that Owen Sound is a rural city, it still has a small town feel, but offers many amenities, making it a great city to explore.
Owen Sound is home to a number of gorgeous parks, winding rivers and plenty of access to the bay. Along with it’s stellar location, Owen Sound offers a number of outdoor adventures for nature lovers. This small city is also full of historical sites and offers visitors a side of culture and the arts at the same time. With so many wonderful things to see and do in Owen Sound, the adventures are endless.
*Please Note – Some locations are not currently operating due to Covid-19, but look forward to seeing you in the future!
Explore Harrison Park
Harrison Park offers visitors a variety of activities and attractions, easily making it a highlight when exploring Owen Sound. The amount of attractions in the park are countless, with a splendid combination of nature and modern amenities.
Harrison Park is home to many trails, a waterfall, a bird sanctuary and the Sydenham River. During the summer months, Harrison Park offers camping facilities, a swimming pool, mini putt, paddle boat rentals, tennis courts, a playground and a fully functioning restaurant. With so much to offer, Harrison Park is a must on the list of things to do in Owen Sound.
Take in the View From Centennial Tower
Located on the outskirts of Owen Sound, you will find Centennial Tower at the end of 9th Ave E. Centennial Tower takes you up a quick spiral staircase, leading to views over the city and the harbour. Centennial Tower is also located on the Bruce Trail, allowing you to continue your exploration after taking in the views.
Spend the day at Kelso Beach Park
Kelso Beach Park is the perfect destination during the warmer months. Located on the shores of Georgian Bay, Kelso Beach Park offers a stretch of sandy beach great for swimming and lounging on. Within the park, you will also find a trail following the shoreline, a splash pad, playground and an outdoor amphitheatre.
Tour around DowntowN Owen Sound
Downtown Owen Sound is home to a number of different dining options and boutique style storefronts. Along with eating and shopping, downtown also offers some unique stops as well. Downtown, you can find the Roxy Theatre, Heartwood Music Hall, the Tom Thompson Art Gallery and the Billy Bishop Home and Museum.
Visit the Billy Bishop Home and Museum
The Billy Bishop Home and Museum is located downtown in an old Victorian home. The museum is dedicated to paying tribute to war hero, Billy Bishop. The museum allows you to tour Billy Bishop’s childhood home, while learning of his war time accomplishments.
Catch a Performance at the Roxy Theatre
The Roxy Theatre is also located downtown and is part of the areas history, dating back to the early 1900s. The Roxy is known as one of the regions top live performance destinations. Throughout the year, the Roxy Theatre hosts a number of plays and musicals.
Go back in the time at the Grey Roots Museum
Grey Roots Museum is dedicated to upholding and celebrating the history and roots of Grey County. The museum offers a number of interactive exhibits and events throughout the year. Located on site, you will also find Moreston Heritage Village displaying life during the pioneer days. To learn more about what’s happening at Grey Root Museum, please refer to their website.
explore the grounds at Morland Place
Located next to the Grey Roots Museum, you’ll find Morland Place. Morland Place is a hidden gem in Owen Sound and is absolutely stunning. Hidden by mature trees, Morland Place is easily missed, but this old estate is home to amazing gardens. The grounds at Morland Place are impeccably groomed and beautiful to explore.
Take a Hike
Within Owen Sound, there are a number of hiking trails and paths to chose from. Whether you’re exploring one of the parks, chasing a waterfall or discovering the waterfront, there is a hike/walking path for you. Trails range from smooth walkways to the forest floor, accommodating all types of explorers.
Chase Waterfalls
The city of Owen Sound is home to four beautiful waterfalls, Inglis Falls, Jones Falls, Weavers Creek Falls and Indian Falls. Three of the four waterfalls are just a short walk from the parking lot, while Indian Falls requires about a kilometre walk. These four waterfalls are spread out around the city, but it’s possible to visit them in one day. The four waterfalls in Owen Sound each offer a unique experience and are all worth visiting.
Owen Sound Harbour
The Owen Sound harbour allows boaters to access to Georgian Bay, but it’s also a beautiful location to visit. Along the harbour front, there is a paved path, lined with plenty of benches. This area is a great spot for a walk or to relax and watch the water. By the harbour front, you will also find people fishing, picnicking and enjoying the waters edge.
Storybook Park
At Storybook Park you’ll find all sorts of family fun. The park offers a number of midway type rides, water slides, mini putt, animal enclosures, and so much more, all located in the heart of a mature forest.
Watch an Owen Sound Attack Game at the bayshore
The Owen Sound Attack are an Ontario Hockey League team that play out of the Bayshore Community Centre. The Attack are very much apart of the community and residences of the area are very supportive. If you’re visiting Owen Sound during hockey season, catching an Attack game should be on your list.
Events that happen in Owen Sound
Each year, Owen Sound hosts a number of special events and festivals. Among the top events are the Salmon Spectacular (a fishing derby), Summer Folk Music Festival and Festival of Northern Lights (Christmas light display).
Day Trips from Owen Sound
Flowerpot Island, Ontario
While Owen Sound offers a ton of attractions and sites, it also makes a great base for many adventures in Grey and Bruce County. Within a drive-able distance, you can reach many great little towns in the region. From beaches, to boat tours and hikes, the adventures are endless.
- Sauble Beach – 25 minute drive
- Meaford – 25 minute drive
- Wiarton– 30 minute drive
- Southampton – 30 minute drive
- Chantry Island – 30 minute drive + boat ride
- Thornbury – 40 minute drive
- Port Elgin – 40 minute drive
- Lion’s Head – 50 minute drive drive
- Flowerpot Island– 1 hour 20 minute drive + ferry
- Tobermory – 1 hour 20 minute drive
- Kincardine – 1 hour 10 minutes
- Goderich – 1 hour 40 minute drive
- Bayfield – 2 hour drive
*All driving distances are an approximation
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