The City Column: What To Do In Muskoka
Ontario’s renowned “cottage country” vacation destination, Muskoka boasts lakes and old-growth forests that have drawn travellers since the Victorian era.
Beyond the beautiful surroundings, you’ll discover a food, design and arts scene that gives visitors reason to stay longer than a weekend.
Where to Stay
New: The Dudley Inn
Built in the 1980s, this hotel got a makeover just a few years ago, bringing considered design to the roadside motel format. Located in the town of Bala, the inn offers easy access to the three big lakes — Muskoka, Rosseau and Joseph — for boating, as well as Torrance Barrens Dark-Sky Preserve, one of Ontario’s best stargazing destinations. Bright, spacious rooms sleep two to four, and there’s a country farmhouse available for larger groups.
3440 Muskoka District Rd. 169, Bala, Ont.
Classic: Windermere House
This hotel has been welcoming guests to Muskoka since 1870. Its waterfront is Lake Rosseau, so if boating, fishing, hiking, cycling and golf are on tap for your getaway, this is an ideal base. While the hotel’s exterior preserves its roots as a Victorian-style resort, rooms are modern and serene, with garden or lake views.
2508 Windermere Rd., Windermere, Ont.
Where to Eat
New: The Pearl
This gourmet food market and snack bar in Bala has become a local favourite. The kitchen team sources ingredients from local farms and producers, and stocks its pantry with grab-and-gooptions. For weekend brunch, try the Cinnamon French Toast Bread Pudding or Lox and Cream Cheese Bagel. And for dinner, grab a bite on the waterside patio.
3047 Muskoka Road 169, Bala, Ont.
Classic: Crossroads Restaurant
Family-owned and operated by chefs Richard and Julie Lalonde since 2008, this resto is the benchmark for fine dining in Muskoka — the lakefront setting alone is worth a reservation. Try the Georgian Bay Pickerel or, for something heartier, the Cast-iron-seared Beef Tenderloin. Reservations open 60 days out — it’s best to book ahead!
2 Cardwell Rd., Rosseau, Ont.
What to See
Classic: Muskoka Arts & Crafts
This gallery has grown into one of the region’s most beloved arts institutions, with two spaces in Bracebridge and a full calendar of shows and workshops. The main event is the Annual Summer Show in July, a juried outdoor festival where more than 200 Canadian artisans set up across a riverside park to showcase pottery, textiles, jewelry, painting and woodwork. The downtown Bracebridge gallery has a busy multimedia exhibition schedule this summer, too.
63 Manitoba St., Bracebridge, Ont.
Classic: Muskoka Steamships & Discovery Centre
Immerse yourself in all things Muskoka at this museum in Gravenhurst. Exhibits trace the history of the area including 10,000 years of Indigenous presence, and settler and industrial development. Visit the Grace and Speed Boathouse, home to North America’s largest in-water collection of restored antique wooden boats, then book a spot on a steamship for an afternoon lake cruise.
275 Steamship Bay Rd., Gravenhurst, Ont.
Where to Shop
At The Cutter’s Edge, browse custom kitchens and millwork built in-house, plus Jack & Stella is part café, part shop, part community hub. Find great pieces — from quirky ceramics to cottagechic textiles — for entertaining at home. 1004 Bala Falls Rd., Bala, Ont.
Sandhill Nursery is a beloved Muskoka garden centre. Pick up a fresh bouquet, potted herbs, or find inspiration for next year’s garden. There’s also a café, The Rusty Rake, if you’re feeling peckish. 1686 Aspdin Rd., Huntsville, Ont.
Simply Cottage is the go-to store for the lakeside living aesthetic. You’ll find furniture for bedrooms, dining and living rooms, and Ontario-made coffee and dining tables with custom sizing available. 339 Ecclestone Dr., Bracebridge, Ont.
Family-owned HillTop Interiors offers a comprehensive collection of furniture and decorating accents that blends Muskoka cottage style and contemporary design.1150 Hwy 141, Rosseau, Ont.