9 Glorious Things to do in Goderich: Guide to Ontario’s West Coast Gem
Ontario’s west coast may not be home to mountains and rainforests but it is home to Goderich. This charming small town is home to history, beautiful beaches, epic sunsets, and a Tiger. A Tiger? I’ll get to that later. But if you’re looking for a great weekend getaway in Ontario then here’s your guide to Ontario’s west coast gem, including what to eat, day trips and things to do in Goderich.
9 of The Best Things to do in Goderich
Many know Goderich Ontario as the prettiest small town in Canada! However, there’s a wealth of history and fun thing to do in Goderich Ontario! Below you’ll find all the top things to do in Canada’s prettiest town!
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. In clicking through and purchasing from these links you will not be charged anything extra but I will receive a small commission.
Head to the Beach
Ontario’s west coast is known for its incredible beaches. So, if you’re looking for things to do in Goderich this summer then you’ll love its long stretch of beaches.
There are three beaches, all flowing along the coast of Lake Huron. The Goderich Main Beach is close to town, restaurants and offers a great view of Goderich’s salt mine. St. Christopher’s Beach is great for wandering along the Goderich boardwalk, and is a great spot to catch the sunset.
The best beach for stretching out your towel to catch some rays or just dive right into the crystal blue waters of Lake Huron is Rotary Cove Beach. There is ample free parking, bathrooms, a play area, and shade at Rotary Cove Beach. Plus, this beach will blow you away with its Caribbean white sand.
Huron Historic Gaol
If you’re looking for a unique slice of history head to the Huron Historic Gaol. This octagonal jail was built between 1841 and 1911. You can explore holding cells, working rooms, outdoor cell blocks, and more. This National Historic Site is also home to a Governor’s home that’s attached to the jail. Here you’ll experience the stark contrast between jail life and Governor life. There are period pieces that transport you back in time, beautiful wallpaper, decorative iron radiators, and stunning Victorian furniture.
Visit the Lighthouse
Is there anything more picturesque then a lighthouse?
Ontario is home to many lighthouses, especially along Lake Huron! However, the Goderich lighthouse is the oldest one on Lake Huron. Built in 1847, this beautiful lighthouse stands atop the bluffs above St. Christopher’s Beach.
There’s even a set of stairs leading up to the park from the beach below. In addition one of the top Goderich attractions here in Lighthouse Park you’ll also find Rotary Cove Lookout. Here, you’ll have a fantastic view over the beaches, Lake Huron, and of course stunning sunsets.
Visit Tiger’s Tomb
If you’re looking for off-the-beaten-path places in Ontario then this is one! No, this isn’t a tomb with a tiger in it. Instead, it is the tomb of one of founders of Goderich, Dr. William “Tiger” Dunlop.
Tiger and John Galt founded Goderich in 1827. Dunlop was born in Scotland, spent time in India – where he got the nickname Tiger, and then he moved to Upper Canada. Tiger was a man of many talents! He was an army officer, surgeon, author, and politician.
While originally buried in Hamilton, Tiger was moved to his current burial site in accordance with his wishes. Here you’ll find a small park with a stone wall around a tomb. The stone wall is what is left of Gairbraid, an 845 acre estate acquired by Tiger and his brother.
It is a solemn spot among the towering trees and it’s also home to a beautiful view.
Take in a Sunset
Did you know that Ontario’s west coast is home to some of the most epic sunsets in the province? To me, catching a sunset is one of the best things to do in Goderich!
There are two great places to catch the sunset in Goderich. One is St. Christopher Beach, where you can sit on the sand, a park bench or a rock and watch the sunset over Lake Huron.
But my favourite place is from the Goderich Lighthouse. Perched on the hill in the shadow of the lighthouse sits a lone bench that is the perfect spot to watch the sunset!
Take a Hike
There are a handful of great places to take a hike in Goderich. There’s Maitland Woods which is also known as Morris Tract Provincial Nature Reserve. This 58 hectare park is home to a wealth of birdlife, reptiles and amphibians. There are also provincially rare species of plants.
Another great spot to take a hike or cycle is along the Goderich Rail Trail, which is also part of the Maitland Trail. The Goderich to Guelph Rail Trail is 132km long. However, you don’t need to tackle it all! One stretch through town takes you along the Menesetung Bridge to Tiger Dunlop’s tomb. The trail takes you along the wooden railway bridge, built in 1906, that spans the Maitland River. Along this 750 foot long bridge you’ll find incredible views of Lake Huron, Goderich, and more.
Two other parks to visit in Goderich are Point Farms Provincial Park and Falls Reserve Conservation Area. Both offer camping and hiking trails.
Point Farms Provincial Park is located just north of Goderich. This once Victorian resort, sits atop a bluff and offers incredible views of the water as well as classic Lake Huron sunsets. There are 6km of hiking trails and a large beach.
Falls Reserve Conservation Area is located along the Maitland River, 15 minutes east of downtown Goderich. This 230-acre park is great for camping, hiking, swimming, and birding! Plus, there’s also a cascade waterfall!
Related Post: Ontario Small Towns You’ll Fall in Love With
Huron County Museum
Another great way to learn more about Huron County and Goderich itself is to visit the Huron County Museum. The museum is located in an 1856 school house and is home to thousands of artifacts that cover the area’s history and culture. You’ll find everything from military to agricultural displays and even the engine of a 1913 steam train.
Explore Downtown Goderich
One of the best things to do in Goderich is to wander its downtown! Here, you’ll find the Square, or Courthouse Square. However, strangely enough, this square is actually a circle.
All around the circular downtown “square” in Goderich are an array of shops as well as cafes and restaurants. If you’re looking to do some shopping in Goderich during your visit then I recommend starting downtown.
A couple of my favourite shops include Something Irresistible, a women’s clothing store, and The Book Peddler, for a whimsical bookshop! Plus, I highly recommend popping into Elizabeth’s Art Gallery. This is both an art shop and art gallery!
Within walking distance of the picturesque square are a variety of historic buildings. You can even download self-guided heritage walking tours from here.
Historic Walking Tour
If you’re looking for hidden gems in Goderich, then take a wander through its residential neighbourhood that overlooks the lakeshore. You can download the Heritage Walk 3 – North to the Maitland to learn more about the homes, architecture and more.
Along St. Georges Crescent you’ll find some stunning homes. One even reminded me of a less-spooky version of the Bates home from Psycho.
Where to Eat in Goderich
If you are looking for great places to eat in Goderich you won’t be disappointed. There are a ton of options!
If you’re looking for a mouth-watering dinner with a view head to one of the top restaurants in Goderich, the Beach Street Station. Set on the lakeshore of Lake Huron you’ll have awesome views as you dine in what was originally the CPR Train Station built in 1907.
Cait’s Café, in downtown Goderich, is ideal for your morning coffee, a sweet treat or a light lunch. All of their food is made from scratch and sourced from local suppliers and farmers.
Another fabulous spot to eat is at Part 2 Bistro! Their menu is filled with locally sourced food and beverages. Plus, they have a great location right in downtown Goderich!
If you’re looking for tasty pub grub then head to Paddy O’Neils Restaurant Pub! This Irish classic pub is located below the over 100-year-old Hotel Bedford.
Before you leave head over to Culbert’s Bakery to grab some tasty treats for the road back. Culbert’s Bakery has been around for over 100 years and makes some of Ontario’s best baked goods and all at prices from 20 years ago!
Day Trips from Goderich
Goderich is the perfect place to base yourself while exploring Ontario’s west coast and Huron County. The area is full of charming small towns that all have something special to offer. And if you have extra time to explore more here are a few great day trips from Goderich.
Blyth
If you’re looking for small-town charm and theatre then Blyth is it. Located 25 minutes from Goderich, Blyth is full of great places to eat, really unique shops, and is home to the Blyth Festival. The Blyth Festival is not your average theatre festival. Forget about seeing plays you’ve read the book to or ones you’ve seen elsewhere. The Blyth Festival is dedicated to putting out pure Canadian theatre.
Bayfield
Located 20 minutes from Goderich, Bayfield is the perfect day trip for those looking for history and charm. Take a wander down the main street and you’ll be transported back in time. Each building is unique and has a story to tell. Like the Little Inn that has been catering to travellers since the 1800s.
There’s even a Heritage Trail that is only 2 kilometres long. The trail guides you through this historic village with eight “storyboards” that will share each location’s significance, including old photos and paintings of the spot. And don’t forget to pop into Pink Flamingo Bakery for a refreshing drink and one of their famous cupcakes.
Grand Bend
If you’re in need of a relaxing beach day then a day trip to Grand Bend will put some sunshine in your step. Approximately 40 minutes from Goderich you’ll love the huge stretch of beach, there’s room for everyone. Grand Bend’s beaches are Blue Flag certified, meaning that the water is the highest quality, they’re accessible, and also eco-friendly.
Beyond the beach, you can grab a bite to eat in one of the many eateries, do a little street art hunting, and of course a little retail therapy in Grand Bend’s great local shops.
Southampton
Another great town to visit along the Huron Coast is Southampton! At only an hour and ten minutes north of Goderich, this small town makes for the perfect day trip. Visitors will find a long list of things to do in Southampton!
Much like Goderich, Southampton is home to a beautiful beach front, epic sunsets, and amazing restaurants. Plus, there’s also a thriving art scene, museums, and lots of trails in town and nearby.
Where to Stay in Goderich
There are a bunch of great options for places to stay in Goderich, depending on what you’re after. You can find a list of vacation rentals in Goderich that range from cozy cabins to beautiful places! Even one of these cutest vacation rentals in Ontario is nearby!
You’ll also find an array of hotels, motels, and charming Bed and Breakfasts right in downtown Goderich. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option without the frills then try Cedar Lodge Motel. I’ve stayed there and loved the location, it’s only a few minutes from downtown.
Another popular place to stay is the Dreamz Inn. It offers daily continental breakfast, has a pool, and is in a perfect location if you’re exploring the Huron Coast. One of the most popular Bed and Breakfasts is Colborne B&B. It’s set in a charming old Victorian home right in the heart of Goderich, and you’ll love their hot breakfast!
Tips for Planning Your Goderich Road Trip
When planning your weekend getaway or day trip to Goderich you may have a few questions. Discover more about Goderich including, what it’s known for and how to get there, as well as the top places to visit in Goderich Ontario!
What is Goderich known for? – Overlooking Lake Huron, Goderich is best known as the prettiest town in Canada. However, it’s also known for its incredible beaches, crystal blue waters, and for having one of the world’s largest operating salt mines.
Why is Goderich the prettiest town? – Many refer to Goderich as the prettiest town for a variety of reasons. Located along the Huron coast in Ontario, it’s home to pristine beaches, waters, a charming downtown, and some of the best sunsets!
How to Get to Goderich – Located along the Huron coast of Ontario, Goderich is approximately 3 hours west of Toronto. You can access it via the 401 west and up highway 8. Goderich is at the crossroads of Highway 8 and ON-21.
Top Places to Visit – Courthouse Square, Goderich Lighthouse, Rotary Cove Beach, Tiger Dunlop’s tomb, Huron County Museum, Menesetung Bridge, and the Huron Historic Gaol.
Other great Ontario small towns you’ll also love:
Paris – considered one of Ontario’s prettiest small towns
Elora – home to the Elora Gorge, fun shops, and plenty of charm
Midland – set on the shores of Georgian Bay and full of things to do
LIKE IT? PIN IT FOR LATER REFERENCE!