+21 Great Things to do in Gravenhurst, Muskoka
What if I told you there was an incredible place in Ontario that has it all? Hiking, cruises, great restaurants, museums, and a fun art scene. That place is Gravenhurst! Known as the Gateway to Muskoka Lake, you’ll find a long list of great things to do in Gravenhurst throughout the year. That’s right, Gravenhurst is a fabulous destination for a summer getaway in Ontario but also all year long! From cruises in the summer to scenic drives in the fall, this guide to Gravenhurst has it all!
Where is Gravenhurst?
Considered the “Gateway to Muskoka” Gravenhurst is the perfect place to start your Muskoka road trip. Located just off Highway 11, Gravenhurst is approximately two hours north of Toronto or just under an hour north of Barrie. Keep to the left on the highway to exit at Muskoka Road 18 to head to downtown Gravenhurst.
Top 15 Things to do in Gravenhurst
There is a host of adventures to be had and things to do in Muskoka and a great place to base yourself is in Gravenhurst! But be warned, there is so much to do in Gravenhurst that you might not want to leave! Whether you’re looking for a charming small town to explore, awesome hiking trails, or to experience a slice of history there is something for everyone in Gravenhurst.
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Explore Downtown
The first thing I always do in any small town I visit is to take a stroll through their downtown. It helps give you a sense of the place and is usually where most of the main shops and eateries are.
During the summer downtown Gravenhurst comes alive with colourful hanging flowers. But it’s always a great idea to spend some time wandering downtown. Gravenhurst’s downtown can be found along Muskoka Road South, between Phillip Street and Brown Street. Along this stretch you’ll find all the best that Ontario small towns have to offer, historic buildings, quaint cafes, and cute shops. All of which Gravenhurst has plenty of.
Many of the restaurants in Gravenhurst can be found along this stretch, along with a few cute cafes. And you’ll find ample parking along the main street, but there is a three-hour limit. If you’re looking for cute cottage country shops to browse or pick up a souvenir or two then you’re in luck! There are a bunch of great shops that carry everything from clothing to antiques as well as décor.
Take a Cruise
One of the top Gravenhurst tourist attractions is their Muskoka Steamships. During the summer and fall, you can climb aboard one of the famous Muskoka cruises that run out of the Gravenhurst wharf.
It’s here that you can board North America’s oldest operating steamship – the RMS Segwun. Also known as ‘lady of the lakes’, she’s the last of her kind but is still going strong over 130 years later.
There’s another ship, the Wenonah II, which is the Segwun’s modern counterpart but is still made to look like her much older sister.
Gravenhurst’s sightseeing cruises take you out onto the beautiful Lake Muskoka and can go as far as Lake Joseph and Lake Rosseau. Cruise times range in length depending on which one you choose.
Two of the most popular Gravenhurst Muskoka Steamship cruises are the Fall Colour cruise and the Millionaire’s Row cruise. If you’re looking to see the grand Lake Muskoka mansions then you’ll love the Millionaire’s Row cruise. This scenic cruise takes you all around the lake and through the narrow channel that’s home to some of the world’s richest cottages.
Most cruises come with dining options which is a nice add-on. Cruises run from May to October. You can read reviews of the cruises here or book your tour on their website here.
Explore the Murals
I’m always on the hunt for street art in Ontario! If you love finding a slice of art in the streets too then you’re in luck because Gravenhurst is home to over a dozen murals. Throughout downtown Gravenhurst there are 14 murals that represent the history and story of Gravenhurst.
Many of Gravenhurst’s murals can be easily spotted by wandering the main street, Muskoka Road South. These large murals can be found on the sides of buildings and each represents a moment in time. From the beginnings when Gravenhurst was known as Sawdust City for its logging industry to the tourism it thrives off of today.
If you’re looking for a structured tour of the murals you can pick up a brochure from the Gravenhurst Chamber of Commerce building at 275 Muskoka Road South. Or you if you use the AllTrails app you can follow along on their 2.1 kilometre Gravenhurst Historic Mural Route.
Go on a Hike
Muskoka is an outdoor enthusiast’s playground! Whether you’re into boating, ice climbing or hiking, you’ll find it all here. There are so many great places to hike in Muskoka and many can be found in and around Gravenhurst. With over 35 kilometres of trails ranging from short and easy to long and challenging, there’s a trail for everyone’s ability.
One of my favourite Gravenhurst hikes is the Peninsula Trail. This easy to moderate trail runs along the peninsula that juts out into Gravenhurst Bay by the wharf. It’s a great hike to watch the sunset over the water from one of the two gazebos on the peninsula. If you’re looking for a crowd-free hiking trail then head to Bryon’s Bay Recreational Trail. This mostly forested trail is a great escape into the wilderness.
For those looking for a longer hike consider hiking Devil’s Gap Trail. This 4.3 km trail takes you through varying Muskoka landscapes and is said to be one of Ontario’s haunted trails.
One of Gravenhurst’s most challenging hikes is the Cooper’s Falls Trail. This 8 km trail is part of the Trans Canada Trail that runs through Gravenhurst. It’s a great choice for those looking to spot some wildlife or enjoy trails with boardwalks.
Other trails in Gravenhurst include; Chamberlain Trail, Hahne Farm Trail, and Leo Heritage Trail.
Bethune Memorial House National Historic Site
Down an unassuming street close to downtown sits one of the top Gravenhurst attractions, the Bethune Memorial House National Historic Site. This beautiful Victorian home is where Dr. Norman Bethune spent the first part of his childhood.
Who is Dr. Norman Bethune? He is one of Canada and the world’s most famous humanitarians. He was a surgeon, early supporter of socialized health care, a veteran of the First World War, an inventor, and more.
The Bethune Memorial House National Historic Site is a great place to learn more about the doctor and all that he accomplished in his short life. This National Historic Site is filled with exhibits that showcase the doctor’s many successes.
Included in your visit to the Bethune Memorial House is a guided tour that starts with a short video about the doctor. You can also enjoy a stroll around the grounds of the historic site on your own.
Address: 297 John Street North
Gravenhurst Opera House
One of the most beautiful historic buildings in Gravenhurst is the Opera House. If you’re anything like me and love live theatre, like the Stratford Festival and Blyth Festival, then be sure to add a show to your list of things to see in Gravenhurst.
The Gravenhurst Opera House has a long history. Built in 1901 it is here that Canada’s summer theatre tradition began. In 1934, the actor John Holden created a place for actors to keep working during their usual slow summers. Donald Sutherland even started his big acting career here in the late 1950s.
Along with fabulous live theatre, the Gravenhurst Opera House hosts entertainment all year round. The building’s interior is home to some of the best acoustics in Canada. So, if you love concerts then consider taking in one here. Many bands and singers have played here, including Blue Rodeo’s Jim Cuddy!
Please note that the 2021 summer season is on hold. You can find out more here.
Address: 295 Muskoka Road South
Visit the Muskoka Wharf
The Muskoka Wharf is one of the top places to visit in Muskoka, especially in the summer! A scenic boardwalk wraps around the Gravenhurst Bay of Lake Muskoka. And here you’ll find an array of things to do, restaurants, shops, and the Muskoka Discovery Centre. One of the biggest draws to the Wharf is the historic steamship cruise!
You can easily spend a whole day exploring the Muskoka Wharf! Before or after your cruise, you can visit the museum, hike the Peninsula Trail, enjoy some retail therapy, and stroll the boardwalk. Another great place to visit here is the Blue Willow Tea Shop! It’s one of the best places to enjoy afternoon tea in Ontario.
The Muskoka Wharf also hosts a range of events and festivals every year. One of the most popular is the Vintage Boat Show that takes place every July. Another great one is the Dockside Festival of the Arts. This festival showcases 100 artists, has live music and family-friendly activities, food, and takes place every August.
Muskoka Steamships & Discovery Centre
One of the biggest attractions at the Gravenhurst Wharf is the Muskoka Steamships & Discovery Centre. This fantastic facility is where visitors can learn all about the area’s history as well as discover a slice of the roots of boating.
At the Discovery Centre you’ll learn about everything from Indigenous people’s relationship with water to seeing the largest collection of in-water classic antique wooden boats in North America.
Boat building is a huge part of Gravenhurst culture and at the museum you’ll learn all about it through an array of interactive and educational exhibits. Along with nearly a half a dozen permanent exhibits, there are also temporary ones all of which offer a glimpse into Muskoka’s past, present and future.
The Discovery Centre is a great place to take the kids to in Gravenhurst! With a variety of interactive exhibits, there’s also a kid’s zone and they also offer day camps.
The Muskoka Steamships & Discovery Centre is one of the best museums in Muskoka. With a passion for celebrating the heritage of Muskoka as well as preserving it, this is a must-visit attraction to add to your Gravenhurst itinerary.
Address: 275 Steamship Bay Road
Lookout Park
Gravenhurst is home to plenty of great parks. One of these is Lookout Park. And if you’re looking for a fabulous view over Gravenhurst then head to this park. Lookout Park is located at the end of George Street, north of downtown.
At Lookout Park, you’ll find everything a little park could need! The park is home to one of Gravenhurst’s little libraries, a playground, and picnic tables. But the big draw is the views from Lookout Park! Here you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views over the bay and the Muskoka Wharf.
If you’re looking for more views of Gravenhurst head to Ungerman Gateway Park! Located a couple of streets north of Lookout Park, this park also offers great views, a place to swim, and a slice of Gravenhurst’s history.
Ungerman Gateway Park was once the site of a prisoner of war camp, known as Camp 20. The ruins and a small plaque can still be seen.
Visit Gull Lake Rotary Park
Beyond all the small parks in Gravenhurst there is one that has it all! Gull Lake Rotary Park is one of the largest parks in Gravenhurst. Just a short walk from downtown, the park is on the shores of one of the best lakes in Muskoka, Gull Lake.
It’s the perfect place to spend the afternoon in the summer. The park has a range of amenities that include a large parking lot, washrooms, picnic tables, and a playground.
Gull Lake Rotary Park is also home to one of the best beaches in Gravenhurst. On top of swimming, there are plenty of other activities to be found in the park. You can enjoy a round of Frisbee golf, stroll the shaded winding trails, visit the little library or take a paddle around the lake.
If you’re looking for live entertainment in Gravenhurst you can find it here too! Just off the shore sits a large stage known as The Barge. This stage hosts the largest outdoor concert series north of Toronto called Music on the Barge.
Grab a seat at one of the many benches or bring a lawn chair and add this waterfront music experience to your summer in Gravenhurst bucket list!
Address: Third Street
Explore The Tree Museum
If you love art and the great outdoors then The Tree Museum is the perfect Gravenhurst attraction for you! This is not your traditional museum.
Set on a rugged patch of land, the Tree Museum is located 10 minutes east of downtown. There is no conventional museum building, it’s more like an open air art museum.
The Tree Museum is open from May 1st through to October 31st and you can enjoy a lovely hike in the woods while taking in incredible art pieces.
After parking in the small parking lot off of Doe Lake Road you can hike in, which is about a km to the first sculpture. From here you’ll find over a dozen pieces throughout the woods. The museum is a great place to go if you’re looking for free things to do in Gravenhurst.
Address: 1634 Doe Lake Road
Take a Fall Drive
Fall in Muskoka is one of the best places in Ontario to experience the autumn colour change. And if you’re looking for things to do in Gravenhurst in the fall then I recommend a fall drive.
There is a bunch of great routes that combine both picturesque winding back roads and water views. During peak fall colour change you can drive down almost any road in and out of Gravenhurst. But, I have a few favourite routes.
You’ll find yourself on one or all of these roads during your visit to Gravenhurst. My favourite fall drive in Gravenhurst is along Southwood Road. This road runs between Torrance and Highway 11 and is full of twists and turns. With dense mixed forests on both sides of the road, it makes for the perfect rainbow of fall colours.
Another great choice is along Frank Miller Memorial Route. This road runs around Gravenhurst Bay both northwest of Gravenhurst towards Torrance and northeast towards Bracebridge. With peekaboo water views and winding roads, both are a great ride.
My last recommendation is to take Doe Lake Road east of Highway 11 for more fall fun.
If you’re looking for a guided fall driving tour try this one here.
Chase Waterfalls
There are a dozen incredible waterfalls in Muskoka and a few of which can be found in Gravenhurst. So, if you’re looking for something adventurous outdoor fun then I suggest you chase waterfalls in Gravenhurst.
The three waterfalls are Wasdell Falls, Cooper’s Falls and Muskoka Falls. Some are easier than others and one is dare I say elusive.
The easiest waterfall in Gravenhurst to visit is Muskoka Falls. Located right off Highway 11, this massive and powerful waterfall has created a huge gorge in its path. The Muskoka Falls was once wild but is now being used to generate power thanks to a power station and dam that was built in 1906.
While some might call it simply a dam, I consider any waterfall a waterfall – no matter its path. Wasdell Falls is one of these. Located on the Severn River, Wasdell Falls is part dam but you can also find some whitewater downstream.
The last and truly mysterious one is Cooper’s Falls. Some consider it one of Muskoka’s hidden gems. Located in a town by the same name, Cooper’s Falls is a beautiful cascade hidden within this now ghost town.
There’s no specific markings or trail and it isn’t found on Google so you’ll have to research and hunt for this one. But keep in mind that people still live nearby and do not trespass on private property.
Heritage Walking Tour
I always say that one of the best ways to start off your visit to a place is to take a walking tour. And Gravenhurst has a fabulous self-guided walking tour that will take you around to some of the best places in town and educate you about each.
The Gravenhurst Heritage Walking Tour takes you around to 26 different locations in Gravenhurst. Each spot is a historic site and offers a great way to learn about the history of Gravenhurst as well as discover some hidden gems.
You can check out the online tour here. Each location shares a bit about the place as well as a short video. Or, if you would prefer a physical copy of the Heritage Walking Tour you can pick one up at the Visitor Information Centre, which is located downtown, or at the Muskoka Steamships & Discovery Centre at the Gravenhurst Muskoka Wharf.
Some of the stops include the Railway Station, Masonic Lodge, Carnegie Library, and Brown’s Beverages.
Torrance Barrens Dark-Sky Preserve
There are dark-sky preserves emerging all over Ontario! These preserves help to bring people out into the wilderness and experience just how magical the night sky is when you’re far from light pollution.
One of these incredible places is in Gravenhurst! Torrance Barrens Dark-Sky Preserve is a 25 minute drive west of Gravenhurst and is the world’s first permanent dark-sky preserve.
Torrance Barrens Dark-Skey Preserve covers over 4,500 acres and is home to three hiking trails. Beyond the unique and incredible landscape that can be found at the park, the main reason to visit is to take in the sky at night.
Some of the best times to visit are when there’s a meteor shower or any other interesting sky phenomenon going on.
Please note that there are no facilities here as this is a non-operational park. And as of July 2021, there is no camping or fires allowed in the park.
Address: Southwood Road
More Gravenhurst Things to do
Are you planning to stay for longer and looking for more things to do? You’re in luck! Gravenhurst is a small town with a lot to offer visitors! Discover more things to do and places to visit to ensure a well-rounded Muskoka vacation!
Muskoka Rails Museum – Trains have help shape what Muskoka is today. So, the Muskoka Rails Museum was created in celebration of Muskoka’s rail history. The Muskoka Rails Museum is located in Gravenhurst’s old train station and features railway-related exhibits along with artifacts.
Gravenhurst Farmers Market – Another great activity in Gravenhurst is to attend their weekly Farmers Market. The Gravenhurst Farmers Market can be found at the Muskoka Wharf, across the road from Boston Pizza. The market runs on Wednesdays from the beginning of June through October. You’ll find over 50 vendors selling everything from fresh local produce to incredible artisan goods.
Golf – Muskoka is home to 25 great golf courses and many can be found in and around Gravenhurst. A few top golf courses in Gravenhurst to hit up include Muskoka Bay Resort’s Golf Club and Taboo Muskoka Golf Course. Both of which offer accommodation and restaurants on site for a perfect package of fun!
Gravenhurst Winter Carnival – If you’re looking for things to do in Muskoka in winter then check out the town’s Winter Carnival! Noted as one of the top things to do in Gravenhurst in winter, the Carnival is full of family-friendly activities, eating competitions, a polar dip, and so much more.
Twin Maples Farm – If you’re looking for a unique experience in Gravenhurst then Twin Maples Farm has the perfect thing! They offer private horse-drawn carriage rides in Gravenhurst all year round. This lovely farm is the perfect place to keep in mind if you’re looking to do something special for that special someone in your life.
Little Norway Memorial – For history buffs or those looking to pay their respects, consider visiting the Little Norway Memorial. At the Muskoka Airport, located between Gravenhurst and Bracebridge, you’ll find a memorial that commemorates the lives of those that trained on the grounds of the airport that was affectionately called “Little Norway” during the Second World War.
Arts at the Albion – To see incredible work by local talented artists head to Arts at the Albion. Located in one of downtown Gravenhurst’s heritage buildings, Arts at the Albion is an art gallery showcasing a range of pieces, from paintings to pottery. In what was once the Albion Hotel, this art gallery now is a hub for artists in the area. They also run special events like workshops and life drawing classes, so be sure to check them out if you’re looking for something creative to do in Gravenhurst.
Muskoka Drive-In – How do you wrap up a great day spent exploring Gravenhurst? Consider a nostalgic visit to the Muskoka Drive-In! Enjoy arcade games, fresh popcorn and movies under the stars in pure summer Canada tradition at the Drive-In.
Things to do Near Gravenhurst
Are you planning to spend a few days in or use Gravenhurst as your base to explore Muskoka? There is plenty of things to see in Gravenhurst and if you want more I’ve got you covered.
Hike Hardy Lake – One of the best fall hikes in Ontario is at Hardy Lake Provincial Park! Just outside Gravenhurst, this awesome park offers a scenic hike around one of the lovely Muskoka lakes, Hardy Lake. The park is home to three different hiking trails that take you through forests, over rock, and across awesome stretches of boardwalks.
Visit Bracebridge – The next stop on a Muskoka road trip and a great day trip from Gravenhurst is Bracebridge. This charming small town is full of waterfalls, great restaurants, and a host of haunted tales. With so many things to do in Bracebridge you’ll want to add it to your itinerary.
Barn Quilt Trail – There are a host of driving tours in Muskoka and one is the Ryde Barn Quilt Trail. The trail can be enjoyed best by driving around the former Ryde Township, which is now part of Gravenhurst. This 40 minute tour takes you to two dozen sites where you’ll see a range of places, including historic sites. You can download the Ryde Barn Quilt guide here.
Check out the Lookouts – Beyond the few in Gravenhurst there are a bunch of great lookouts in Muskoka. While their best seen in the fall – in my opinion, lookouts are always a great idea! A few great lookouts near Gravenhurst to check out are Walker’s Point Lookout, Huckleberry Rock Lookout, and Lions Lookout in Huntsville
Chase More Waterfalls – There are over a dozen waterfalls in Muskoka! So, if the few waterfalls in Gravenhurst just aren’t enough then try visiting a few more. A couple of the best waterfalls near Gravenhurst that should be on your list include the three that can be found in Bracebridge, Ragged Falls just outside Algonquin Provincial Park, and Rosseau Falls.
Things to Know Before You Visit Gravenhurst
When planning your visit to Gravenhurst there are a few things you should know before you go. Depending on if you’re going for a day or a week, I have a few tips for you that include where to eat, stay, and when to go.
Where to Eat in Gravenhurst
To fuel your days of exploring you’ll need to eat and drink! There is a bunch of great restaurants in Gravenhurst that will satisfy everyone’s diet and appetite. Most places to eat in Gravenhurst are found downtown and along the Wharf. Whether you’re looking for caffeine, a beer or a patio, I have a few favourites.
Blue Willow Tea Shop – One of the best places to experience high tea in Ontario is the Blue Willow Tea Shop. Located along the Muskoka Wharf, Blue Willow serves up a classic afternoon tea on Blue Willow china with views of the Bay. I recommend making reservations.
Dock of the Bay Steak & Seafood Grille – For a fabulous meal inside or on one of the best patios in Muskoka head to Dock of the Bay. Set along the Gravenhurst Wharf, Dock of the Bay is your go-to restaurant for steak and all things seafood! With a large menu that also offers pasta and a long wine list, this is one of the best places to eat in Gravenhurst, especially in the summer!
The Oar Restaurant – One of the most beautiful restaurants in Gravenhurst is the Oar Restaurant. Located downtown, the Oar has an upscale cottage vibe. On their menu you’ll everything from burgers to calamari and a plethora of vegetarian options that are made from only the freshest of ingredients. Please note that reservations are highly recommended.
Sawdust City Brewing Company – One of the best breweries in Muskoka can be found in downtown Gravenhurst. Sawdust City Brewing Company is all about sustainable practices and crafting beer from the finest of ingredients. Along with a range of craft beers you’ll also find an awesome patio and some tasty food options.
Where to Stay in Gravenhurst
Depending on what you’re looking for there is an ideal Gravenhurst accommodation for everyone. You’ll find everything from fabulous Gravenhurst cottage rentals to awesome resorts with a host of amenities. Below are a few of the top places to stay in Gravenhurst. If you’re looking for something cozy then check out these cute cottages in Muskoka.
Residence Inn by Marriott Gravenhurst Muskoka Wharf – One of the best Gravenhurst hotels is the Residence Inn by Marriott! With a perfect location along the Muskoka Wharf, you’re close to great restaurants and some of the top attractions in town. Amenities at the Residence Inn include a complimentary hot breakfast and indoor pool to start and suites offer kitchenettes as well as fireplaces.
Taboo Muskoka – If you’re looking for one of the top resorts in Muskoka then book your stay at Taboo Muskoka. The resort is located roughly 5 minutes from downtown Gravenhurst and has a ton of great amenities on site. It’s home to one of the most popular golf courses in Muskoka, the Taboo Muskoka Golf Course. Beyond the contemporary rooms there is also a fabulous restaurant, nature trails, multiple pools, as well as equipment to use like kayaks and mountain bikes.
Howard Johnson by Wyndham Gravenhurst – For those looking to stay downtown, the Howard Johnson by Wyndham is a great choice. Less than a 10 minute walk into downtown, the Howard Johnson offers convenience, affordability as well as a restaurant.
The Inn on Bay – One of the loveliest and historic inns in Gravenhurst is The Inn on Bay. This historic Georgian-style home is within walking distance of both downtown and Gull Lake. The Inn on Bay has unique, spacious suites and serves a delicious hot breakfast every morning.
When to Visit Gravenhurst
Every season has something to offer visitors. But it all depends on what you’re looking to see and do. Peak season in Gravenhurst is during the summer, from the May long weekend through to Labour Day. But there is something to do all year long!
Winter – Winter in Gravenhurst is the perfect time to visit to avoid the crowds, bugs, and enjoy all the snow-inspired winter activities. Popular things to do in the winter include cross country skiing, skating, and snowshoeing at Muskoka Bay Resort. And during February there’s the Gravenhurst Winter Carnival with a ton of fun events and happenings.
Fall – The perfect Gravenhurst weather is during autumn. Fall in Gravenhurst means no bugs, comfortable temperatures, and incredible fall colours. A few popular fall activities include; scenic drives, hiking, and fall cruises.
Summer – If you want to enjoy the heat, water activities, and restaurant patios then summer in Gravenhurst is an ideal time to visit. During the summer there are a host of Gravenhurst events like Music on the Barge, the antique boat show, Dockside Festival, and Rib Fest. But note that accommodations book up fast, especially on the weekends.
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