Under An Hour From Barrie Is Canada's Charming Town With Lake Fun, Craft Brews, And A Walkable Downtown

In the massive province of Ontario, Canada, there's no shortage of things to see and do. Whether you're searching for natural wonders or the bright lights of the city, Ontario certainly delivers. One of the best ways to experience the province is to venture beyond the cities and discover the underrated small towns scattered throughout its vast landscape. Some are so small that you could easily drive right through without giving them a second thought. One place you won't want to miss on your next visit is the charming town of Midland. Located under an hour from Barrie, Midland offers a walkable downtown, craft brews, and plenty of lakeside fun to keep you occupied.

Located in the "heart of Georgian Bay," Midland is one of those small towns that welcomes you with its cozy charm the moment you arrive. Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of trails to explore, while craft beer lovers can discover their next favorite brew. Midland is located in Simcoe County, a region rich with history that's deeply connected to the Indigenous peoples of the Georgian Bay region. It is the traditional territory of the Huron-Wendat, Anishinaabek, Petun, Neutral, and Haudenosaunee peoples, whose connections to the land continue to shape the region's cultural heritage.

Midland has a way of bringing the outdoors and small-town life together. Whether you're stopping by for the day or spending a weekend in town, there's plenty to discover. Take a walk along the waterfront trail, grab a coffee on King Street, or find a spot to sit and watch the town go by. It's a place where you can spend a slow afternoon enjoying the sights without having to rush.

Visitors looking to enjoy the outdoors can head to Midland's community lake. Much like Lake Simcoe — Ontario's haven for beautiful beaches, Little Lake offers shallow, warm water and a sandy beach that make it a popular spot during the summer months. Visitors can swim in the lake or launch a kayak, canoe, or a small boat, provided it meets the 9.9 horsepower engine limit. The lake is located off King Street, making it easily reachable from downtown.

Little Lake Park also offers several activities for families, including a large playground and an easy 2-mile lakeside trail that winds along the shore. It even has an off-leash dog park, so your furry family member can join the fun. Whether you're sunbathing on the beach, hitting the volleyball court, walking along the water, or letting the kids play, the park provides plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors in Midland.

Travelers who want to take their water-based adventures to the next level are in luck, as Midland is considered the "Gateway to Georgian Bay." Spanning nearly 5,800 square miles, Georgian Bay is nicknamed "the sixth Great Lake" for its staggering size, per National Geographic. It has 30,000 islands dotted throughout, making it the largest freshwater archipelago in the world. Needless to say, seeing the beauty unfold from the water is a must. Georgian Spirit provides sightseeing boat tours that whisk travelers through its stunning coastal landscapes, complete with turquoise waters, secluded bays, and dramatic limestone cliffs. Adventurous visitors can also take a water taxi from Midland to Georgian Bay Islands National Park, a hidden gem with trails and beach camping.

Midland's downtown is full of historic brick buildings that add to its charm. As you meander along its walkable streets, you'll find yourself on King Street, the quaint main strip lined with heritage sites and preserved landmarks. One standout is the beautiful Midland Public Library, with its white brick exterior and distinctive clock tower. Since opening its doors in 1913, the building has undergone several transformations — it was a federal government office, a post office, and a steamship inspection office before becoming the public library it is today. Local artists shine bright in Midland, thanks to the 50 murals located downtown and along the waterfront. Grab a Mural and Public Art Guidebook at the Town of Midland Harbor Office and take yourself on a tour of all the colorful installations.

Downtown Midland has plenty to offer visitors. Bakeries, cafés, boutiques, and small family-run businesses are located along King Street, which stretches right to the harbor. In the summer months, watch the sailboats drift by on the sprawling patio at the highly-rated Boathouse Eatery. Those visiting Midland in early summer are in for a treat — a sticky, gooey, delicious one, at that. For one day in June, Midland plays host to Ontario's Best Butter Tart Festival, a celebration and friendly competition to see whose version of the Canadian staple dessert is the best-of-the-best.

Beer lovers must pay a visit to Test Batches Brewery. Tucked just off Midland's main strip, it serves up cold pints ranging from easy-drinking dark lagers to West Coast IPAs. Can't decide on just one? Opt for a beer flight and sample a few favorites. Not a beer drinker? The brewery also offers wine, cider, and non-alcoholic options, along with tasty bites. Grab a classic pretzel, dig into a unique flatbread, or savor a delectable sandwich. For more adventures, drive 10 minutes to Midland's neighboring community of Penetanguishene, a little Lake Huron town with stunning harbor views.