19 Outstanding Things to do in Owen Sound, Ontario

Are you looking for an incredible place in Ontario for a getaway that has it all? Then let me introduce you to the immense list of things to do in Owen Sound Ontario! This diverse city in Grey County is one of my favourite places to visit. It’s full of outdoor adventures that include waterfalls. Plus, along with a historic downtown, Owen Sound is home to plenty of cultural attractions and charming cafes!

This travel guide to Owen Sound will help you plan the perfect getaway! With a wide array of things to do, there’s something for everyone! My guide will share all the fun things to do and places to visit, as well as where to eat and nearby gems!

Best Things to do in Owen Sound Ontario

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Explore Harrison Park

Exploring Harrison Park is a must when visiting Owen Sound! This over 40-hectare park is full of things to do and see. Plus, it’s free to enter!

The park is home to plenty of outdoor activities like playgrounds, mini-putt, various sporting courts, and more! There are also over 100 full-service campsites within the park.

Harrison Park has a number of trails too! In addition to the winding pathways, the park trails connect with the Bruce Trail and the Freedom Trail. If you’re looking for a solid hike, you can hike from Harrison Park to Inglis Falls along the Bruce Trail.

One of the best little boardwalk trails in Ontario is in Harrison Park! Weaver’s Creek Falls trail is a lovely little boardwalk running along the creek. And the best part is it leads you to Weaver’s Creek Falls. Visitors should be award that while the boardwalk is within the public park, the waterfall is on private property. So, please don’t trespass.

Black history runs deep and strong in Owen Sound! As the northern end of the Underground Railroad, the city’s first black settlers are celebrated in the park. Along with a Black History Cairn, the park hosts an annual Emancipation Festival every August.

Address: 75 2nd Ave E, Owen Sound, ON

Explore Inglis Falls Conservation Area

One of the top things to do in Owen Sound is chase waterfalls! The city is home to many of the Grey County waterfalls, like Inglis Falls.

Inglis Falls Conservation Area is home to the largest and most beautiful of the Owen Sound waterfalls! The 200-hectare park is located just south of downtown and the waterfall is very accessible! You can see the waterfall right from the parking lot and even walk over top. On a clear day, you can see all the way to the Owen Sound harbour from the top of the falls.

There is a trail running along the left side of the waterfall that offers the best view of the falls. From here, you can take in the mighty cascade waterfall. With its source of Sydenham River, it drops nearly 60 feet down.

The conservation area has more to offer than the waterfall. There are over 7 kms of trails in Inglis Falls Conservation Area. In addition, it’s home to an old grist mill, geological potholes, and is a hot spot for bird watching.

Address: 237785 Inglis Falls Road Owen Sound ON N4K 5N6

Browse Tom Thomson Art Gallery

I’m a huge Tom Thomson fan! So, it’s no surprise that I highly recommend adding a visit to the Tom Thomson Art Gallery in Owen Sound to your trip!

The gallery is one of the best places to experience the Group of Seven in Ontario! Along with honouring the life and work of Tom Thomson, who inspired the Group of Seven, visitors will also find piece from other members of the group.

For those unaware of Tom Thomson, he was a Canadian landscape artist. Born in Claremont, Tom grew up in Leith, a small community just north of Owen Sound.

The Tom Thomson Art Gallery is home to a number of pieces by the artist, along with pieces from his daily life. In addition, the gallery showcases art by the Group of Seven and other Canadian landscape artists.

If you’re looking for indoor things to do or budget friendly activities, a visit to the gallery ticks both boxes. Admission is by donation meaning you pay what you can.

Note: The gallery is currently under construction that is due to finish up before summer of 2023. However, it’s still open to visit.

Address: 840 1st Ave W, Owen Sound, ON N4K 4K4

Visit Jones Falls

Thanks to the Niagara Escarpment running through the area, you’ll find three large waterfalls. One of them is Jones Falls.

Jones Falls is a cascade waterfall in Pottawatomi Conservation Area. It drops nearly 40 feet down into the Pottawatomi River.

The Pottawatomi Conservation Area covers over 100 hectares of hardwood forest just west of downtown. Within you’ll find winding trails, songbirds in the trees, and the striking waterfall.

Plus, there’s a free parking lot off of Highway 6. However, there is lots of poison ivy along the trails, so be carefull.

Address: 717875 Hwy 6, Owen Sound, ON N4K 5N7

Visit Indian Falls Conservation Area

Another epic waterfall can be found just north of downtown, off of Grey County Road 1. Open spring through fall is the Indian Falls Conservation Area.

Indian Falls Conservation Area is free to visit and is home to a beautiful horseshoe shaped plunge waterfall. Follow the yellow arrows along the short but challenging trail. The hike takes approximately 20 minutes to the waterfall. It brings you up steep hills and up a flight of stairs, so be prepared.

At the end you’ll be rewarded with Indian Falls! Dropping nearly 50 feet straight down, the best time to see a steady flow of water is in the spring or early summer. Even with a trickle, its worth it to see the Queenston shale colouring as the backdrop.

A few things to keep in mind is that access to the base of the falls is prohibited. Plus, along with being closed during the winter, the park’s trails experience flooding occasionally. Before you go, check their website here to ensure the park is open.

Address: 318614 Grey Rd 1, Owen Sound, ON N4K 5N4

Visit Owen Sound Farmers’ Market

In operation since 1857, the Owen Sound Farmers’ Market is one of the oldest in Ontario. While originally held anywhere there was space, it moved into the town hall in 1870.

Then in the 1930s the farmers’ market moved to its current location within the old waterworks building. The current location maintains the market’s historic roots in the Owen Sound’s River District. It’s a scenic location with the Sydenham River running behind it.

Open every Saturday 8am to 12:30pm, year round, the market is full of a wide range of products. Inside you’ll find things like fresh produce, baked goods, as well as arts and crafts from local artisans.

Travel tip: If you’re visiting on a weekend and are a foodie, be sure to pack a cooler! It will come in handy after browsing all the fabulous treats at the market. Plus, it’s a great place to find unique items that are ideal for gifts!

Address: 88 8th St E, Owen Sound, ON N4K 1K8

Browse Shops in Downtown Owen Sound

Explore the city’s downtown, also known as the River District thanks to the two rivers running through town. A stroll through downtown will uncover historic buildings and plenty of places to go shopping in Owen Sound.

With a variety of shops, there’s something to pique everyone’s interest! You’ll find stores selling books, clothing, home décor and more.

A couple of great shops to find home furnishings and unique pieces include Barebirch Design Home Décor and the Artists’ Co-op. One of my favourites is Heartwood Home! Inside this grand old storefront is a mix of vintage finds and new items. At the back of the shop is a cute little café too! Plus, in 2023 they are opening up a restaurant out back.

I’m always on the hunt for independent bookstores wherever I travel! Owen Sound is home to two great ones. One is the Ginger Press Bookshop & Café. The other is Phoenix Books, which is home to a set of geography books that are over 200 years old!

I also recommend popping into Dr.Cobbler’s Shoes & Swirls! Whether you’re in the need of a new shoes or you love the creative then this is the store for you. The shop originally sold jewelery and the cabinets still run the length of the store. Along with selling shoes, bags, and other items you’ll meet the adorable shop dog named Doc Martin. Don’t forget to look up! Above the cabinets is the owners’ collection of fun vintage shoes.

For art enthusiasts, downtown is also home to a number of art galleries. Be sure to check them out too! These include Grey Gallery, Gallery de Boer, and 2nd Ave Gallery.

Best Owen Sound Attractions

Explore Grey Roots Museum & Archives

If you’re looking for things to do in Owen Sound on a rainy day then head over to the Grey Roots Museum. Located minutes from downtown, the museum celebrates the Grey County’s history.

Home to over 15,000 artifacts, visitors will find rotating exhibits throughout the year. It’s a great place to bring the kids as there’s plenty of hands-on exhibits. Inside you’ll find everything from First Nations history to early settlers’ stories.

Along with a gift shop and movie theatre, Grey Roots Museum also hosts a variety of festivals. A couple include the Pratie Oaten Irish festival and the Emancipation Festival Speaker’s Forum.

One of the best parts of the museum is the Moreston Heritage Village. The heritage village is located right beside the museum and home to a collection of buildings where you can step back in time. Throughout the village are costumed volunteers to share stories about pioneer days.

Buildings in the heritage village include an 1850s log cabin, 1920s farmhouse, as well as a schoolhouse, blacksmith shop, and more! The village is open during summer months, June to September.

Address: 102599, Grey County Rd 18, Owen Sound, ON N4K 5N6

Visit the Centennial Tower

Built to celebrate Canada 100th, the Centennial Tower is both an attraction and hidden gem in Owen Sound. While it opened to the public in 1969, many outside town are unaware of it.

The Centennial Lookout Tower is built on the site of an old lime kiln that was in existence since 1887. It stands over 30 feet tall and has a narrow black spiral staircase within.

Climbing up the steps will bring you to the top level, which is one of the highest points in the city. From the top you’ll get 360-degree views over Owen Sound, the harbour and beyond.

Another cool feature is that the tower is located along the Bruce Trail. If you’re looking for Bruce Trail day hikes in Owen Sound then this is a great section. The trail connects to Harrison Park and Inglis Falls. Along the trail you’ll see classic attributes like stone formations and cliffs.

Travel tips: Access to enter the tower is not open during the winter. There is a small parking lot beside the sign for the lookout tower. From the parking lot head north and you’ll find a trail leading to the tower.

Address: 290 9th Ave E, Owen Sound, ON N4K 5N6

Attend Festival of Northern Lights

Attending the Festival of Northern Lights is one of the top things to do in Owen Sound in winter! The annual festival has been a staple in the city for over 30 years.

If you’re looking for a fun Ontario winter getaway then head to Owen Sound. Starting in the middle of November and running into January, the city is taken over with over 400 light displays. The Festival of Northern Lights is one of the best free light displays in Ontario!

Across downtown, in Harrison Park, around the harbour and beyond are a blaze of fun lights! The opening night ceremonies at the start of the festival is a must experience. It features horse-drawn wagon rides, live entertainment, fireworks and more! After the first night, the lights shine bring every night between 5 and 11pm.

Travel tip: Other Owen Sound festivals worth checking out include the Summerfolk Music & Crafts Festival, Sweetwater Music Festival and the Emancipation Festival.

Visit Billy Bishop Home & Museum

Set in a stunning Victorian home built in 1884 is the Billy Bishop Home & Museum. William “Billy” Avery Bishop was born and raised in the house for 17 years. Now, it’s not only a museum but a National Historic Site of Canada.

The museum celebrates the life and renowned achievements of Billy Bishop. In addition, other servicemen and women are honoured too.

Best known as one of the top Canadian pilots during the war. Billy held over 70 victories to his credit. Throughout the museum visitors will find photographs and artifacts from his private life as well as pieces from his career as a war hero.

The Billy Bishop Home & Museum is filled with antique furniture owned by Bill and his wife. Plus, you’ll see his Air Marshal RCAF uniform jacket from WWII.

Throughout the year the museum hosts special events and exhibits. During the holidays they put on a Victorian Christmas. Other programs include Victorian teas and ghost walks.

Address: 948 3rd Ave W, Owen Sound, ON N4K 4P6

Free Owen Sound Things to do

Owen Sound Mural & Artists Alley

Every place I travel to I’m always on the hunt for street art! I must admit that Owen Sound is rising up the ranks of the best places to find street art in Ontario!

Across the city visitors will find over 20 murals, sculptures and art installations. There’s a big reason why the city is known for its arts community. Many of the murals in Owen Sound are by Billy Goodkat. Billy is originally from Ireland by now a local.

There are two notable murals to check out. One is the Owen Sound mural by Emily May Rose. Covering both sides of Carney’s Lane, off of 2nd Avenue East, the mural celebrates the city. The mural includes the Chi-Cheemaun, Inglis Falls and more.

Artist’s Alley is the other popular spot for street art. Next to the Milk Maid, this alleyway was created in partnership with Billy Goodkat and local students. The alley has a number of different pieces.

Behind the Roxy Theatre you’ll find another awesome mural by Goodkat. Named Window to the World, the mural was created for the 100th anniversary of the theatre.

On the loading dock entrance of the Tom Thomson Art Gallery is a beautiful mural. Created by Nyle Migizi Johnston, the mural is of a Thunderbird and titled Miigwetch Animikii Bineeyhnshi (Thank You Thunderbird Spirit.)

Exploring downtown is a great way to uncover more murals and art pieces!

Historic Walking Tour

I always suggest taking a free walking tour whenever you visit a new place. It’s a great way to learn more about the area and get a feel for places you want to explore further.

There are a number of walking tours of the city. One is the Owen Sound historic walking tour. The tour is broken up into four sections to complete separately or in succession. They are the perfect way to learn and see more of the oldest places in the city. Plus, you’ll learn about the area’s history and the people that have helped shape what it is today.

The four sections include the East Side Tour, the West Side Tour, Downtown Tour and Mill Dam Tour. You can easily complete the first three within a few hours of casual walking. The shortest tour is the Mill Dam Tour but it might require driving to a couple of the points of interest, though it can be walked as well.

While each section has something unique to offer, my favourite is the East Side Tour. Highlights include churches and old estates in Victorian homes, some of which are now bed and breakfasts. Plus, you’ll see the Old Grey County Court House and Jail that were built in 1853.

The best way to experience the tour is by picking up a pamphlet from the main tourist office. The pamphlet details each section of the tour with maps and photos. In addition, are notes about the building’s architecture, history and notable people associated with it.

Fun Fact: The streets in Owen Sound were originally named. However, after time spent in New York City, the mayor F.W. Harrison changed the names to numbers in 1909.

Stroll Owen Sound Harbour

Many of the top things to do in Owen Sound can be found in and around the harbour. So, if you’re looking to plan out how to explore the city, I say start here.

You can park at Kelso Beach, explore the trails and beach, as well as see the boats in the marina. If it’s the off season you’ll likely spot the Chi-Cheemaun docked in the harbour.

Following the footpath from the beach head over to see the iconic grain elevators. Continue south to the bridge crossing the river at Highway 6. Then meander up the east side of the harbour.

Along the east side you’ll find a scenic spot that’s perfect for a picnic lunch or to stop and relax. There’s even an adorable gazebo for some shade. Or before that is one of the great restaurants in town, Mudtown Station.

And if you’re feeling ambitious continue along the Grey County CP Rail Trail for more views over Georgian Bay. The trail is definitely something to consider, it runs 77 km from Owen Sound down to Dundalk. So, you’ll either want to do it in stages or just the part that runs through Owen Sound.

Sunset at Lake View Stop

On the east side of the harbour, just pass Harry Lumley Bayshore Community Centre, is the perfect spot to relax. Lake View Stop is a scenic lookout spot off of Grey Road 15 with a parking area.

If you’re looking for the best place in Owen Sound for sunset then Lake View Stop is it! Bring a blanket and cozy up for a stunning view of the sun setting behind the hills on the other side of the bay.

Wiidosendiwag + Walking Together Tour

A unique experience in Owen Sound is the Wiidosendiwag + Walking Together Tour. This area was originally the traditional Saugeen Ojibway Nation Anishinaabek territory.

The tour is an initiative of the Truth and Reconciliation Circle. This self-guided walking tour is 3km and brings you to five different locations where you’ll find sculptures and plaques. Along with the audio guide that can be found here, the sculptures help tell the history and story of the Ojibway people.

Story telling is an important part of Indigenous communities. The audio guide shares 25 stories and teachings, each told by Elders, for you to listen to at each of the five stops. Through it you’ll learn about the original Nawash Village that was on these lands and so much more.

Some of the locations include the reconciliation garden at Kelso Beach and two different Indigenous ancestral burial grounds.

The audio guide and the signage are in English, French and Anishinaabemowin.

More Things to See in Owen Sound

Owen Sound Artists’ Co-Op

In a historic building block in downtown is a fantastic shop and space that should be on your list while visiting. The Owen Sound Artists’ Co-Op is both a shop and gallery showcasing the work of over 45 local artists.

The space is filled with all sorts of items ranging from jewelery to paintings. There’s a guest artists corner that’s switched up monthly. You’ll also find artists from all age brackets including an area dedicated to the Next Generation with pieces by people ages 14 to 24.

Plus, there’s a food gallery at the back of the shop. Here you’ll find all sorts of goodies from local artisanal food producers.

However, I encourage you to also pay attention to the building itself! The Artists’ Co-Op is located within the old McKay building, which was a dry goods store. You can still see the sign painted on the building’s exterior. One of the cool features that remains in the store is the old money rail. Hanging from the ceiling, this money rail was how money was sent to the offices back in the day. Now, it’s a piece of art giving a nod to the building’s past.

Address: 942 2nd Ave E, Owen Sound, ON N4K 2H6

Kelso Beach at Nawash Park

Minutes from downtown is a lovely Owen Sound spot that’s a must visit, Kelso Beach at Nawash Park. Covering 9 hectares, the park hugs the shores of Georgian Bay at the mouth of the Pottawatami River.

There’s a large free parking lot but the park is easily accessible via pathways leading from downtown. It’s here you’ll find one of the most popular beaches in Owen Sound, Kelso Beach. Along with the beach, the park features winding pathways, a playground, and amphitheater.

The park hosts a number of the city’s festivals throughout the summer months. Plus, it offers awesome views of the grain elevators! And across the street is the Kelso Beach Campground that offers public camping that’s super convenient for festival goers.

Also, within the park is the Gitche Namewikwedong Reconciliation Garden. On the lands of the Saugeen Ojibwa Nation of the Nawash people, it was created as a space for healing and reconciliation. The star attraction is the Grandmother Sturgeon sculpture by Indigenous artist Kathryn Corbiere.

The garden is one of the stops along the Wiidosendiwag + Walking Together tour. Plus, there’s another one in the park too.

Address: 2nd Avenue West, Owen Sound, ON N4K 2H4

Marine & Rail Museum

Learn about the city’s history as a thriving port at the Owen Sound Marine & Rail Museum. The museum is on the west harbour and set within the former CN train station.

The Owen Sound Marine & Rail Museum showcases the area’s marine, rail and industrial history through a variety of exhibits. Inside you’ll find an assortment of artifacts, photos, as well as scale models. Plus, you’ll learn why the city was once called ‘the Chicago of the North.’

On the grounds of the museum are a number of cool pieces too! In bright orange is the Caboose that was built in Chicago in 1910 for the Grand Trunk Railway. Nearby is a 1953 Pullman-Standard passenger coach. Other notable outdoor exhibits include and old baggage and mail cart, anchor, and more.

Plus, if you’re looking for more information or pamphlets to read about how to plan your days in Owen Sound, the tourism offices are in the same building.

Address: 1155 1st Ave W, Owen Sound, ON N4K 4K8

Where to Eat in Owen Sound

With all the adventures throughout the city and surrounding area, you’ll need to refuel with some food. And you’re in luck, there are a diverse list of places to eat in Owen Sound. There’s something for everyone’s appetite and dietary needs.

For a solid meal I highly recommend Elsie’s Diner! Inside you’ll be transported to a classic 50’s diner with bright red booths, rock n’ roll memorabilia, and oldies on the radio. Along with a tasty all day breakfast menu, they serve homemade soup and only use local beef for their famous burgers.

Another atmospheric restaurant is located in an old CPR station. Mudtown Station Brewery and Restaurant pays homage to its railway roots through décor. Mudtown Station serves locally produced food as well as a solid line up of craft beer. I recommend their Mudtown Burger!

Downtown is home to lots of cute cafes and one that should be on your list is Birgit’s Bakery Café! Originally a bank, the café maintains the historic charm with exposed brick walls and crown moulding. They make their own breads and pastries. Grab one of their incredible sandwiches and a cup of coffee.

Within Owen Sound’s farmers’ market building is an unforgettable dining experience that pairs storytelling and locally sourced ingredients. This incredible intimate feast is the Naagan dining experience by Chef Zach Keeshig. His 9-course tasting menu is a fusion of progressive Aboriginal cuisine with a contemporary approach.

If you’re looking for a refreshing treat, especially during the summer, pop into Sundays Ice Cream Parlour. Across from the Sydenham River in downtown Owen Sound, it’s the perfect spot to sit on a picnic bench and enjoy your cone!

Things to do Near Owen Sound

If you’re looking for more things to do nearby there is plenty! Along with scenic drives and beaches, there’s an Owen Sound day trip for everyone’s interest. Below are a few fun places to go that are within 30 minutes’ drive from Owen Sound.

Scenic Drive Along 1 – Running along the coast of Georgian Bay between Owen Sound and Wiarton is Grey Road 1. This scenic drive offers water vistas, beaches, and numerous lookouts. A couple top lookouts are Colpoy’s and Kemble Women’s Institute Lookout. Bruce’s Caves are also just off the road.

Visit Sauble Beach – If you’re looking for a fabulous beach destination near Owen Sound then head west to Sauble Beach. Along with being the second longest freshwater beach in Ontario, its often referred to as the quieter Wasaga Beach. There’s also a nearby waterfall and cute cafes!

Hike Skinners Bluff – A solid hike near Owen Sound is Skinners Bluff! Hiking Skinners Bluff brings you through enchanted forests, along limestone cliffs and offers epic views. As one of the best Bruce Peninsula hikes, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views over Georgian Bay and more!

Explore Bognor Marsh – One of the many hidden gems near Owen Sound is Bognor Marsh Conservation Area. Spanning over 600 hectares, Bognor is one of the largest marshes in Grey County. Along with being an interesting place to hike, Bognor Marsh is a great place for birdwatching in Ontario!

Day Trip to Meaford – One of the best small town day trips from Owen Sound is Meaford. Located along Highway 26, Meaford is full of adorable cafes and stunning architecture. There’s also a museum, beach, and various parks. In addition, there is access to Georgian Trail, which is great for cycling and hiking.

Start Planning your Trip to Owen Sound Today

I highly recommend spending a few days exploring the city and nearby area. If you’re looking for places to stay in Owen Sound for your getaway click the map to find the perfect accommodation.

Frequently Asked Questions about Owen Sound

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