Parry Sound is located in Central Ontario, Canada, on the eastern shore of Georgian Bay. It is roughly halfway between Toronto and Sudbury, making it a popular destination for Southern Ontario residents seeking a cottage country retreat. The town is known for its deepwater port, the world's deepest natural freshwater port.

 

Parry Sound is accessible by Highway 69/Highway 400, which connects it to Toronto and Sudbury. The town is also served by the Parry Sound Area Municipal Airport, the Parry Sound Medical Heliport, and several small water aerodromes. The Big Sound Marina is a 120-serviced slip marina for transient vessels up to 60 feet (18 m) in length.

 

The town has a diverse economy, with significant contributions from the lumbering and mining industries. According to the 2016 census, the median income of economic families was $83,144, and the population density was 525.1/km² (1,360.0/sq mi) in 2021.

 

Parry Sound is a popular summer resort and a gateway to the Thirty Thousand Islands of Georgian Bay. The town hosts various cultural events and attractions, including the Parry Sound Festival of the Arts and the Parry Sound Museum.

 

The surrounding District of Parry Sound is home to several First Nations communities, including Wasauksing, Shawanaga, Magnetawan, Dokis, and Henvey Inlet. The district falls under the Robinson-Huron Treaty. Parry Sound is a single-tier government with no second-tier county, regional, or district level of government.

 

History of Parry Sound, Ontario, Canada

Parry Sound is located in Central Ontario, Canada, on the eastern shore of Georgian Bay. It is roughly halfway between Toronto and Sudbury, making it a popular destination for Southern Ontario residents seeking a cottage country retreat. The town is known for its deepwater port, the world's deepest natural freshwater port.

 

Parry Sound was founded in the mid-19th century by W.H. Beatty, a British land surveyor named it after the Arctic explorer Sir William Parry. The town's strategic location on Georgian Bay and its connection to the Trans-Canada Highway and two transcontinental railroads have fostered its development as a merchandising, distributing, and shipping centre for the surrounding lumbering and mining region.

 

The town's history is marked by significant events, such as J.R. Booth's construction of a rival town, Depot Harbour, which led to a decline in economic activity. However, this setback was overcome through later developments in tourism and commerce and the accidental destruction of Depot Harbour by fire in 1945.

 

Geography of Parry Sound, Ontario, Canada

Parry Sound is located in Central Ontario, Canada, on the eastern shore of Georgian Bay. It is roughly halfway between Toronto and Sudbury, making it a popular destination for Southern Ontario residents seeking a cottage country retreat. The town is known for its deepwater port, the world's deepest natural freshwater port.

 

Parry Sound is a sound or bay of Georgian Bay on Lake Huron in Ontario, Canada. It is highly irregularly shaped with many deep bays and islands. The town is located at the head of the sound, bordered on the south side by Parry Island, home of the Wasauksing First Nation.

 

Parry Sound is known for its recreational activities, including kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. The town is home to several provincial parks, including Oastler Lake, The Massasauga, and Killbear, as well as numerous provincial conservation reserves. The Georgian Bay Biosphere Reserve is one of only 13 UNESCO sites in Canada, covering 347,000 hectares of shoreline ecosystem and featuring over 100 species of animals and plants at risk in Canada and Ontario.

 

Demographics of Parry Sound, Ontario, Canada

The key demographics of Parry Sound, Ontario, Canada, are:

 

Population:

• Population in 2021: 6,879 
• Population in 2016: 6,408 
• Population percentage change from 2016 to 2021: 7.4% increase 
• Population density in 2021: 524.9 people per square kilometre 

 

Age:

• 11.7% of the population is 0-14 years old 
• 56.3% of the population is 15-64 years old 
• 32.0% of the population is 65 years and over 
• Average age of the population: 49.4 years 
• Median age of the population: 53.2 years 

 

Visible Minorities and Indigenous Population:

• 2.1% of the population identifies as a visible minority 
• 5.0% of the population identifies as Indigenous, including 2.9% First Nations and 2.0% Métis 

 

Economy of Parry Sound, Ontario, Canada

Parry Sound, Ontario, Canada's economy is diverse and has been experiencing growth in recent years. Here are some key points about the economy of Parry Sound:

1. Commercial and Industrial Base Expansion: The town focuses on expanding its commercial and industrial base to strengthen its economy. This includes initiatives such as recruiting youth to care for the elderly and marketing the district as a desirable destination for secondary migration in Ontario.
2. Manufacturing and Forestry Sector Decline: The manufacturing and forestry sectors have experienced significant employment losses recently. However, employment in the service-producing sector has remained relatively constant, with growth in healthcare, waste management, and public administration.
3. Healthcare and Social Assistance: The district is projected to experience a significant increase in healthcare costs and demand, with a 52% increase by 2041. This presents an opportunity to build upon the growing healthcare and social assistance sectors by recruiting more youth to the region.
4. Indigenous Partnerships: The district is working to continue building on its Indigenous partnerships, recognizing the importance of addressing education levels among Indigenous populations to increase labour productivity and participation in the workforce.
5. Demographics: The population of Parry Sound has been growing, with a 7.4% increase from 2016 to 2021. The median total income of economic families in 2015 was $69,911.
6. Transportation and Infrastructure: Parry Sound is well-connected by highways, with Highway 69/Highway 400 passing through the town. The town also has a municipal airport and several water airfields, making it accessible for personal and commercial transportation.
7. Recreation and Tourism: The town is a popular tourist destination, with several provincial parks and conservation reserves. This presents opportunities for growth in the tourism sector.

 

Overall, Parry Sound's economy is focused on diversification and growth, strongly emphasizing healthcare, social assistance, and Indigenous partnerships.

 

Education in Parry Sound, Ontario, Canada

Parry Sound, Ontario, Canada, offers diverse educational institutions and programs. Here is a summary of the key points about education in Parry Sound:

 

Elementary and Secondary Education

• Public Education: The Near North District School Board (NNDSB) operates several elementary and secondary schools in Parry Sound, including Parry Sound Public School and Parry Sound High School.
• Independent Schools: There are several independent schools in the area, including Montessori Schools, Parry Sound Forest School, and Rosseau Lake College.
• Mennonite School: Otter Lake Christian School is a Mennonite school in the area.
• Catholic School: The Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board (SMCDSB) operates St. Peter the Apostle Catholic School in Parry Sound.
• French Public School: The Conseil Scolaire Public Du Nord-Est De L'Ontario (CSPNE) operates a French public school in the area.

 

Post-Secondary Education

• Canadore College: Parry Sound has a campus in Canadore College that offers various programs and courses.
• Georgian College: Georgian College has a campus in Barrie, close to Parry Sound.
• Canadian Career College: Canadian Career College has campuses in Barrie, North Bay, and Sudbury, offering various programs and courses.
• Nipissing University: Nipissing University is located in North Bay, close to Parry Sound.
• Laurentian University: Laurentian University is in Sudbury, close to Parry Sound.

 

Online Education

• Parry Sound International School: Parry Sound International School is a private high school that offers online programs and courses, including Ontario high school curriculum, IELTS and TOEFL preparation, and summer camps.

 

Education in Seguin Township

• Elementary and Secondary Education: Seguin Township and the District of Parry Sound offer an excellent selection of elementary and secondary schools, including public, independent, Mennonite, and Catholic schools.

 

Parry Sound offers diverse educational institutions and programs, including public, independent, Mennonite, and Catholic schools, post-secondary institutions, and online education options.

 

Transport System in Parry Sound, Ontario, Canada

The transport system in Parry Sound, Ontario, Canada, includes various modes of transportation to facilitate travel to and within the town. Here are the key points about the transport system in Parry Sound:

 

Road Transportation

• Highways: Parry Sound is located along Highway 69/Highway 400, which connects it to Toronto and Sudbury.
• Local Roads: The town has a network of local roads, including Bowes Street, which serves as the main access road to the town center.

 

Public Transportation

• Ontario Northland Bus Service: Daily bus service is available from Toronto and Sudbury and has online schedules.
• Parry Sound Transit: The town operates a public transit system, which includes routes within Parry Sound and connections to nearby communities.

 

Air Transportation

• Parry Sound Area Municipal Airport: The airport offers flights to and from Parry Sound and other destinations in Ontario.
• Parry Sound Medical Heliport: The heliport provides medical transportation services to the town and surrounding areas.

 

Water Transportation

• Big Sound Marina: The marina offers 120 serviced slips for transient vessels up to 60 feet (18 m) in length, making it a popular destination for boaters.
• Water Aerodromes: Parry Sound has several water aerodromes, including Parry Sound Harbour Water Aerodrome and Parry Sound/Deep Bay Water Aerodrome, which provide air access to the town.

 

Rail Transportation

• Via Rail: The Canadian passenger train service stops in Parry Sound twice a week, both east- and westbound.
• Freight Trains: Canadian Pacific Kansas City and Canadian National Railway freight trains pass through Parry Sound, carrying goods and supplies.

 

Other Transportation Options

• Taxi Services: Local taxi services are available for private transportation within the town and nearby destinations.
• Ride-Sharing Services: Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also available in Parry Sound.

 

Parry Sound has a well-connected transport system that includes various modes of transportation to cater to different needs and preferences.

 

Living in Parry Sound, Ontario, Canada

Parry Sound, Ontario, Canada, is a popular cottage country region for Southern Ontario residents, known for its natural beauty and recreational activities. Here are some key points about living in Parry Sound:

• Cost of Housing: The average cost of housing in Parry Sound is relatively low compared to other parts of Ontario. For example, a house on the lake with lake access can cost over half a million dollars.
• Rentals: Parry Sound has a shortage of rentals, making it challenging to find decent accommodations. However, housing is generally cheaper than in Southern Ontario.

• Highway Access: Parry Sound is located along Highway 400, which connects it to Toronto and Sudbury.
• Public Transit: The town operates a public transit system, including routes within Parry Sound and connections to nearby communities.
• Air Transportation: The Parry Sound Area Municipal Airport offers flights to and from Parry Sound and other destinations in Ontario.

• Outdoor Activities: Parry Sound is surrounded by natural beauty, with several provincial parks, including Oastler Lake, The Massasauga, and Killbear, and numerous provincial conservation reserves.
• Water Activities: The town is a popular destination for boating, kayaking, and canoeing on Georgian Bay.
• Winter Activities: Parry Sound offers snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and ice hockey.

• Community Events: Parry Sound hosts various cultural festivals, including the Festival of the Sound classical music festival, an annual dragon boat race, and a buskers' festival.

• Average Salary: The average yearly salary in Parry Sound is $44,080, which is 19% lower than the Canadian average salary.

• Schools: Parry Sound has several elementary and secondary schools, including public, independent, Mennonite, and Catholic schools.
• Post-Secondary Education: The town is close to several post-secondary institutions, including Canadore College and Georgian College.

• Healthcare Services: The West Parry Sound Health Centre is a regional hospital with a CT scan and a 24-hour emergency department.

 

Parry Sound offers a unique blend of natural beauty, recreational activities, and community events, making it an attractive place to live and work.

 

Healthcare in Parry Sound, Ontario, Canada

The key points about healthcare in Parry Sound, Ontario, Canada:

1. West Parry Sound Health Centre: This is the regional hospital in Parry Sound, providing acute, transitional, and rehabilitative care through a variety of inpatient and outpatient programs and services. It is a 90-bed acute care hospital with a 24/7 emergency department.
2. Primary Care Providers: The Parry Sound Family Health Team delivers primary care to the Parry Sound community, with their office at 60 Bowes Street. The town also has several nurse practitioner-led clinics, including the Argyle, Britt, Moose Deer Point, Pointe au Baril, Rosseau, and Whitestone and Area clinics.
3. Public Health Services: The North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit serves the Parry Sound area, working to promote healthy lifestyles, prevent diseases and injuries, protect the community from environmental hazards, and prepare for emergencies. Their office is located at 90 Bowes Street, Suite 201.
4. Transportation for Seniors: Volunteer and private sector transportation services are available in Parry Sound to assist older adults with getting to medical appointments, social activities, and running personal errands.
5. Ontario Health Team: The Ontario government has approved the West Parry Sound Ontario Health Team, which brings together local healthcare providers to coordinate and integrate care for the community.

 

Parry Sound has a well-established healthcare system, including a regional hospital, primary care providers, public health services, and transportation options for seniors. These services work together to serve the local community's healthcare needs.

 

Tourist Places in Parry Sound, Ontario, Canada

Parry Sound, Ontario, Canada, is a popular tourist destination for its natural beauty, outdoor activities, and cultural attractions. Here are some of the top tourist places to visit in Parry Sound:

1. Tower Hill Heritage Garden: This beautiful garden is a must-visit, with its stunning floral displays and tranquil atmosphere. It is at 19 George St, Parry Sound, ON P2A 2R2, Canada.
2. Waubuno Park: This park offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, picnicking, and swimming. It is at 21 Prospect St, Parry Sound, ON P2A 2B5, Canada.
3. Oastler Lake Provincial Park: This park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. It offers hiking trails, camping sites, and water sports. It is at 380 Oastler Park Dr, Parry Sound, ON P2A 2W8, Canada.
4. Parry Sound CPR Trestle: This historic trestle, located on the Canadian Pacific Railway in Parry Sound, ON, Canada, is a great spot for photography and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
5. Georgian Bay Airways Ltd.: This air service offers scenic flights over the 30,000 Islands and is a great way to experience the beauty of Georgian Bay. It is at 11a Bay St, Parry Sound, ON P2A 1S4, Canada.
6. Snug Harbour Range Rear Lighthouse: This historic lighthouse is a great spot for photography and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. It is located at Carling, ON P0G 1G0, Canada.
7. West Parry Sound District Museum: This museum showcases the area's history and culture, with exhibits on local industries, natural history, and more. It is located at 17 George St, Parry Sound, ON P2A 2X4, Canada.
8. Charles W. Stockey Centre & Bobby Orr Hall Of Fame: This centre is a great spot for hockey fans, with exhibits on the life and career of Bobby Orr and other local hockey legends. It is at 2 Bay St, Parry Sound, ON P2A 1S4, Canada.
9. Killbear Provincial Park: This park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. It offers hiking trails, camping sites, and water sports. It is at 1 Bay St, Parry Sound, ON P2A 1S4, Canada.
10. Massasauga Provincial Park: This park is a great spot for hiking and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. It is at 1 Bay St, Parry Sound, ON P2A 1S4, Canada.

 

These are just a few of the many tourist attractions in Parry Sound. The town offers various activities and attractions for visitors of all ages and interests.

 

Local Food in Parry Sound, Ontario, Canada

Local food in Parry Sound, Ontario, Canada, is a delightful experience. Here are some popular local restaurants and dishes to try:

1. Maurizio's Pizzeria: Known for its wood-fired pizzas, this restaurant offers a variety of options, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. It also offers a selection of appetizers and cold beverages.
2. Don Cherry's Sports Grill: This popular spot is known for its sports-themed ambiance and pub-style food, such as wings, burgers, nachos, and pasta. They also have a great selection of appetizers.
3. Di Salvio's Bella Cucina: To taste Italy, visit this fine-dining restaurant, which offers authentic Italian cuisine in a modern setting. The menu includes many starters, pasta dishes, and main courses.
4. Trappers Choice Restaurant: This family-friendly restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, focusing on local ingredients. It offers a variety of options, including pickerel bites and escargot.
5. Fort Knox Island Grill: This restaurant is known for its casual fine dining and offers a variety of dishes, including seafood and steaks.
6. Tailwinds Georgian Bay: This restaurant is located near the waterfront and offers a variety of dishes, including seafood and pasta.
7. Log Cabin - Casual Fine Dining: This restaurant is known for its casual fine dining and offers a variety of dishes, including seafood and steaks.

 

These are just a few of the many local restaurants in Parry Sound. The town also has a variety of local food shops and markets where you can find fresh produce and local specialties.

 

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