Explore Midland, Ontario
Midland, Ontario, is a friendly and warm town located on the southern shores of Georgian Bay in Simcoe County. Its beautiful waterfront, rich Indigenous and European history, and lively arts and culture scene make it a pleasant surprise for many travelers. Whether you enjoy outdoor adventures, historical sites, peaceful lakeside relaxation, or the charm of small towns Midland has something for everyone.
Midland is one of the best destinations for exploring Ontario’s lake country. It’s a great getaway for families, couples, nature lovers, and weekend travelers. With scenic views, fascinating historical attractions, and fun local shops, the town offers a memorable travel experience.
A Beautiful Waterfront on Georgian Bay
One of Midland’s biggest highlights is its calm and scenic waterfront located right in the heart of town. The shores of Georgian Bay offer the perfect setting for relaxation, photography, and outdoor fun.
Waterfront highlights include:
-
Midland Harbour: A beautiful marina filled with boats, peaceful walking paths, and impressive sunset views.
-
Huronia Park: A family-friendly park with a sandy beach, picnic areas, benches, and a waterfront playground.
-
Midland Rotary Waterfront Trail: An easy walking and cycling path that follows the shoreline and offers fantastic views.
During the warmer months, the waterfront comes alive with kayakers, paddleboarders, families, and people enjoying the sunshine and fresh lake breeze.
Discovery Harbour: A Look Back in Time
Just a short drive away in Penetanguishene, Discovery Harbour is one of the region’s most popular attractions. This living history museum recreates life from the early 1800s, complete with heritage buildings, costumed interpreters, and full-size ship replicas from a former British naval base.
Things to see and do:
-
Tour the historic naval base and soldiers’ barracks
-
Explore the H.M.S. Bee and H.M.S. Tecumseth ship replicas
-
Watch historical demonstrations and reenactments
-
Enjoy ghost walks, night tours, and seasonal events
Discovery Harbour is both educational and entertaining, making it perfect for families and history lovers.
Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre
For nature lovers, the Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre is one of Midland’s most peaceful and beautiful destinations. This vast marshland is a wildlife sanctuary offering year-round outdoor activities and learning experiences.
Why Wye Marsh is special:
-
Over 25 km of hiking and snowshoeing trails
-
Canoeing through quiet marsh channels
-
Excellent birdwatching especially swans, herons, and migratory birds
-
A visitor centre with interactive exhibits
-
Guided walks and seasonal nature programs
Photographers and outdoor enthusiasts will especially enjoy the marsh’s natural beauty and tranquility.
Martyrs' Shrine: Historical & Spiritual Significance
Another important Midland landmark is the Martyrs' Shrine, a national spiritual site dedicated to the Jesuit missionaries who lived among the Wendat (Huron) people in the 1600s. Visitors come here for its historical importance and peaceful atmosphere.
Key features include:
-
Quiet forested grounds ideal for peaceful walks
-
A stunning church with unique architecture
-
Monuments and displays that recount local history
-
Exhibits describing early Indigenous and missionary life
This serene place allows visitors to reflect, learn, and appreciate the region’s deep heritage.
Downtown Midland: Arts, Shops & Dining
Midland’s downtown is full of charm, offering a mix of historic buildings, boutique shops, cafés, restaurants, and public art. It’s especially lively in the summer months.
Downtown highlights:
-
Local Shops: Selling handmade crafts, books, décor, clothing, and artisanal goods
-
Murals: Over 30 outdoor murals painted by talented local artists
-
Dining: A variety of restaurants, including lakeside patios, bakeries, pubs, and international cuisine
-
Art Galleries: Showcasing work from regional and Indigenous artists
Whether you want to shop, take photos, or enjoy a good meal, downtown Midland has something for every visitor.
Beaches and Outdoor Fun
Midland’s natural surroundings make it a fantastic location for outdoor recreation. With lakes, beaches, forests, and nature trails, visitors can enjoy activities all year round.
Popular outdoor spots:
-
Little Lake Park: A large city park with picnic areas, sports facilities, playgrounds, and open green space.
-
Midland Bay Landing: A developing waterfront area with boardwalks, trails, and scenic views.
-
Beaches along Georgian Bay: Soft sandy stretches perfect for swimming, sunbathing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
Seasonal outdoor activities include:
-
Summer: Hiking, boating, biking, fishing
-
Fall: Scenic walks, leaf viewing, photography
-
Winter: Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing
-
Spring: Birdwatching and exploring blooming trails
Cultural and Historical Sites
Midland’s history is deeply connected to both Indigenous communities and early European settlers.
Sainte-Marie Among the Hurons
This reconstructed 17th-century French Jesuit mission village is one of Ontario’s most important historical sites.
Visitors can enjoy:
-
Rebuilt longhouses, workshops, and living quarters
-
Costumed interpreters sharing stories of daily life
-
Educational exhibits and artifacts
-
Seasonal festivals and themed events
A visit here provides a rich understanding of early Canadian history and the region’s Indigenous culture.
Festivals and Seasonal Events
Midland hosts many fun and vibrant events throughout the year that bring the community together.
Popular events include:
-
Winterama Festival
-
Ontario’s Best Butter Tart Festival
-
Canada Day celebrations
-
Summer live concerts and waterfront events
These festivals highlight Midland’s local culture, food, music, and friendly community spirit.
Final Thoughts
Midland, Ontario, is a delightful town that blends natural beauty, cultural history, local art, and warm hospitality. Whether you’re strolling along the waterfront, exploring historic sites, hiking in marshlands, or enjoying a relaxing weekend getaway, Midland has something special to offer every traveller.
With its scenic Georgian Bay views, rich heritage, and vibrant year-round activities, Midland stands out as one of Ontario’s best small-town destinations.
