11 Things to Do in Collingwood: Top Activities

Collingwood, Ontario offers more than just pretty scenery and ski slopes. This vibrant town on the shores of Georgian Bay has earned a reputation for its unique blend of outdoor adventure, historic charm, and thriving local culture. Whether you’re planning an extended getaway or popping in for the weekend, Collingwood’s energetic spirit ensures there’s never a dull moment. Here’s a curated list of 11 experiences that showcase the best this town has to offer.

1. Stroll the Collingwood Waterfront Trail

One of Collingwood’s biggest assets is its access to Georgian Bay, and the Waterfront Trail puts that beauty on display. This pathway hugs the shoreline for several scenic kilometres, weaving through parks, marinas, and wetlands. Along the way you’ll pass views of the iconic grain terminals, public art installations, and spots to watch sailboats drift by. Cyclists, joggers, and families with strollers all flock here for its accessibility and tranquility.

• Don’t miss: Millennium Park lookout for panoramic bay vistas

• Wheelchair and stroller-friendly sections

• Great for bird watching, especially during migration season

2. Explore Historic Downtown Collingwood

Red-brick heritage buildings, boutique shops, and cozy cafes make downtown Collingwood a must-visit. Duck into locally owned stores to browse everything from antiques to handmade pottery, or grab a coffee and try people-watching at a sidewalk patio. Murals and art installations are scattered through the laneways, bringing a modern flair to this 19th-century core.

Hidden gems can be found down every side street, and if you’re lucky enough to be in town during one of the seasonal festivals, the streets come alive with live music and street performances.

3. Visit the Collingwood Museum

Tucked into a replica train station near the harbour, the Collingwood Museum preserves stories from the area’s rich shipbuilding past. Interactive exhibits trace everything from Indigenous history to the heyday of Great Lakes steamships, alongside a rotating showcase of community artifacts, making it one of the more popular museums in Ontario. History lovers will appreciate the curated displays, while kids can enjoy hands-on activities that bring Collingwood’s timeline to life.

• Free admission (donations welcomed)

• Popular for families and history buffs alike

4. Hit the Slopes at Blue Mountain Resort

Just minutes from town, Blue Mountain stands as Ontario’s largest (and arguably most famous) four-season destination. In winter, skiing and snowboarding dominate, with terrain suited for every skill level. When the snow melts, the hill transforms into a paradise for outdoors enthusiasts, offering a playground for hikers, mountain bikers, and zipliners.

Activities by season:

A day at Blue Mountain always promises some adrenaline and some spectacular views of Georgian Bay, making it one of the popular things to do in Collingwood.

5. Savour Local Cuisine

Collingwood’s dining scene is on the rise, fuelled by access to fresh local ingredients and a community of inventive chefs. From cafés serving buttery pastries to bistros plating up creative takes on Canadian classics, there’s no shortage of choice. Local breweries and cideries also add to the food landscape, showcasing the region’s agricultural bounty.

Top picks include:

• Lakeside seafood restaurants with view-filled patios

• Artisanal cheese shops and bakeries downtown

• Taprooms pouring craft pints you won’t find elsewhere

6. Test Your Skills at Scandinave Spa Blue Mountain

If your idea of the perfect day is less action-packed and more blissful, the Scandinave Spa should be on your list. Nestled in a forested setting, this Nordic-inspired retreat offers outdoor hot baths, cold plunges, Finnish saunas, eucalyptus steam rooms, and peaceful hammocks. Their silence policy adds to the calm, making it an ideal place to unplug and recharge.

Tip: Book in advance, especially on weekends or holidays.

7. Hike the Scenic Caves

Just a short drive outside Collingwood, the Scenic Caves provide a rare walk through ancient geological history. Follow trails through deep crevices and over suspension bridges perched high above the forest floor. The lookout point boasts some of the most striking panoramas anywhere in southern Ontario, particularly when autumn leaves are at their fiery peak.

Other highlights:

• Self-guided caves tour full of local legends

• Zipline and treetop canopy walking for thrill-seekers

8. Experience the Collingwood Farmers’ Market

Every Saturday from May to October, local farmers, bakers, and artisans gather downtown to share their harvest and hand-crafted goods. The Collingwood Farmers’ Market is a sensory delight: the scent of fresh baked bread mixes with the sight of vibrant vegetables and the sound of live music drifting over the crowd. Whether you’re stocking up for a weekend cottage stay or just sampling as you go, the market is a lively, welcoming community gathering.

9. Try Watersports on Georgian Bay

From paddleboarding at sunrise to kayaking among the Nottawasaga Islands, outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of ways to get on the water. Several outfitters rent equipment and offer lessons for all abilities. On calm days, the bay’s turquoise shallows rival Caribbean beaches, while more advanced paddlers can test themselves with longer routes along the shoreline.

Watersports to consider:

• Stand-up paddleboarding

• Sea kayaking tours

• Windsurfing for the more daring

10. Cycle the Georgian Trail

Winding more than 34 km between Collingwood and Meaford, the Georgian Trail is a favourite among cyclists and long-distance runners. The crushed gravel pathway follows the old Northern Railway line and is mostly flat, making it suitable for families as well as seasoned road warriors. Picnic areas and cafes dot the route, offering plenty of opportunity to rest and refuel.

Keep an eye out for wildflowers, songbirds, and unexpected beach access points perfect for a spontaneous swim.

For those venturing out in the winter months, snowshoeing offers a unique way to explore the area's breathtaking landscapes under a blanket of snow. Snowshoe trails around Collingwood traverse through serene woodlands and along the scenic shores of Georgian Bay, providing a peaceful and invigorating experience for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. Outfitters in the region offer rentals and guided tours to help visitors make the most of their snowy adventure.

11. Go Gallery Hopping

Art flourishes here, inspired by both the natural beauty and creative spirit of Collingwood. Galleries and studios throughout town highlight everything from contemporary paintings to Indigenous beadwork. The vibrant arts community often hosts workshops, talks, and special events, giving visitors a chance to get hands-on or meet the artists in person.

A few galleries to look for:

• Tremont Studios (home to a dozen working artists)

• Butter Gallery (showcasing regional landscapes)

• Nearby Nottawa-based studios for sculpture and textiles

Final Thoughts

Condensing Collingwood’s best activities into a single list isn’t easy, but this diverse collection of attractions captures the essence of what makes the town a four-season destination. Everyone finds something to love, whether that means active adventures, culinary finds, artistic inspiration or simply breathing in the fresh lakeside air. For many, a visit here sparks the urge to return again and again, each time discovering a new favourite.