75+ Things to Do This Summer in Barrie and Simcoe County – 2026

Located on the shores of Lake Simcoe and Georgian Bay, Barrie and Simcoe County is a must-visit in summer!

With its extensive trails and adventure activities, you will find something to suit the tastes of every member of the family!

Contents:

• Summer events & festivals in Barrie & Simcoe County — In Barrie, Orillia, Bradford West Gwillimbury, Collingwood, Innisfil, Midland, New Tecumseth, Penetanguishene, Wasaga Beach, Adjala-Tosorontio, Clearview, Essa, Oro-Medonte, Ramara, Severn, Springwater, Tay and Tiny
• Summer activities include waterparks, hikes, cruises, farms (including sunflower and lavender farms), etc.

Summer Events & Festivals in Barrie & Simcoe County

Summer Festivals at Wasaga Beach

Wasaga Beach is planning a busy summer season in 2026, with more than 80 live music performances, waterfront festivals, fireworks, outdoor movies and new family events scheduled across the town.

When:

• Wasaga BeachLife Festival and Midway | July 23–26
• Foam Fest 5K | July 18
• Wasaga Beach Triathlon | Aug. 22
• Summer Sets — Live music performances every Friday and Saturday from July through early September.
• Music in the Park — Outdoor concerts held Tuesday evenings in public park spaces.
• Movies Under the Stars — Weekly outdoor movie screenings taking place Wednesday evenings at dusk.
• Wasaga Beach Farmers’ Market — A weekly Tuesday market featuring local produce, food vendors and community goods.

Troubadour Festival

Enjoy free concerts by The Watchmen, Bahamas this summer.

When: The Watchmen – Saturday, July 25,

Bahamas – Saturday, August 15 @   Meridian Place, Barrie

 

The Porchside Festival

Grab a lawn chair and head to Collingwood to enjoy live music and more!

When: July @ on or around Porches in Collingwood.

Lawnchair Luminata

Lawnchair Luminata, a Downtown Barrie tradition for 17 years, unites the community for outdoor movies at Meridian Place every Wednesday evening until August 19th.

When:

July 8 (Rain Date July 9) –  Next Goal Wins (2023)

July 22 (Rain Date July 23)  – Lilo & Stitch (2025)

August 5 (Rain Date August 6) – The Devil Wears Prada (2006)

August 19 (Rain Date August 20)  – The Fantastic Four: First Steps (2025)

Fish Ontario Licence Free

OFFE is a province-wide opportunity for Canadian residents to fish Ontario licence-free. Cast a line for free or introduce your friends to fishing at Ontario waterbodies.

When:  June 27 – July 5, 2026 @ Across Ontario

Shadows & Stone Evening Experience

Explore the historic mission by lantern light as costumed interpreters bring 17th‑century Wendake to life.

Wander through atmospheric stops across the site: watch sparks dance in the blacksmith shop, roast and taste fresh Bannock, listen to Indigenous stories inside the longhouse, and sip historic teas by the fire.

When:  Thursdays, July 2 to September 3, 2026  @ Sainte-Marie among the Hurons, 16164, Highway 12 East, Midland

Open Air Dunlop

Head to downtown Barrie and eat, shop and play at Dunlop Street in a pedestrian-, bicycle-, scooter- and skateboard-friendly environment! Between  Maple Avenue to Mulcaster intersection, Dunlop Street will be closed to vehicle traffic twice a month and open for the public to support local. Enjoy live music, busking and more!

When:

• July 1: Celebrate Canada’s birthday in style with a day filled with patriotic fun, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities.
• Dunlop Butter Tart Festival  – July 11: Indulge your sweet tooth at this first annual delectable festival showcasing the finest butter tarts in the region.
• Classic Car Show – July 25: Rev your engines and admire an impressive display of classic and contemporary automobiles, a treat for car enthusiasts of all ages. In partnership with the Barrie Thunder Classics

Mariposa Folk Festival

Mariposa Folk Festival is a celebration of music, dance, story and craft, and so much more. Taking place in a beautiful lakeside setting, Mariposa features some of the most renowned folk-roots artists on the North American and international scenes, as well as emerging artists for you to discover.

 

When: July 3 to 5, 2026 @ Tudhope Park, 500 Atherley Road, Orillia

Barrie Ribfest

Ontario Festival Group presents top Pitmasters from Florida, Alabama, BC, and Ontario serving award-winning ribs. Enjoy festival foods, live music, kids’ activities, and more all weekend long.

When: July 3 to 5, 2026  @ Heritage Park,  5 Simcoe St, Barrie

Collingwood Music Festival

Head to Collingwood to enjoy exceptional performances, featuring award-winning artists in the fields of classical, world, jazz and Indigenous genres.

When:  July 6 – 18, 2026@ Various Venues

Secrets of Seance

Ghost Tours reveal the chilling past of Penetanguishene’s 19th-century naval and military outpost. Step into the shadows and uncover stories of artifacts that vanish—only to mysteriously return, chess pieces that move when no one is looking, and the fleeting image of a small child in a quiet window… just a few of the eerie encounters reported at one of Ontario’s most (reputedly) haunted historic sites.

Craving even more thrills? Elevate your Supernatural Saturday with a séance experience, test your wits in the Bo’sun’s Brig Escape Room, or spend an unforgettable evening with a Medium.

When: Saturdays,   July 4 to September 5, 2026 @  Discovery Harbour, 93 Jury Drive, Penetanguishene

Hearth to Table: Dinner in 1648

Savour 17th-century inspired gourmet dishes by candlelight right on the grounds of historic Sainte-Marie. Hearth to Table invites guests to gather around a harvest table inside the chapel of the reconstructed Jesuit mission and enjoy a delicious, multi-course meal featuring historic seasonal ingredients.

When: July 25 & August 22, 2026  @ Sainte-Marie among the Hurons, 16164, Highway 12 East, Midland

Orillia Scottish Festival

Celebrate all things Scottish at the 48th annual Orillia Scottish Festival.

When:  July 17, 18, 19, 2026 @ Tudhope Park, Orillia

Collingwood Pride Festival

Celebrate Pride or walk, dance, drive, ride with Pride in the Collingwood Pride Parade!

When: July 10 – 12, 2026  @ Downtown Collingwood

Garden High Tea

Enjoy a traditional three-tiered high tea at Restaurant Sainte-Marie, served on the patio or in the dining room. The menu includes bite-sized sandwiches, berry Bannock, cornbread, house-baked scones with jam, sweets, pastries and specialty teas, with optional stories from a costumed historical interpreter.

 

When: Sundays, July 5 – August 30, 2026  @ Restaurant Sainte Marie, 16164, Highway 12 East, Midland

Mardi Gras

Experience Mardi Gras on the shores of Lake Couchiching! The Port of Orillia will be the headquarters for a lively celebration with a New Orleans twist. Inspired by the popularity of the long-running Christmas in June event, Mardi Gras in July features a boat decoration contest that will thrill both participants and spectators!

When: July 25, 2026 @ Port of Orillia

Georgian Bay Steam Show

See what life was like on Ontario Farms years ago. You can find Steam Traction Engines, Gas Tractors, Gas Engines, Antique Autos, Farming Demonstrations, Working Saw Mill, Live Stage Entertainment, Talent Contest, Flea Market, Pancake Breakfast, Food Vendors, Children’s Activities & Mud Bog, plus much, much more!

When: July 31st – August 3rd, 2026 @ 4635 Victoria Street West, Cookstown

Kempenfest

Barrie’s signature festival is back for the August long weekend. Kempenfest is one of Ontario’s largest outdoor arts, crafts, and music festivals.

When:  July 31st – August 3rd, 2026 @ Waterfront & Downtown Barrie

Essa National Draft Horse Show

See one of the largest annual Draft Horse Shows in Canada. This year will feature the Equine Mounted Games. Cheer the participants as they race through obstacles to the finish line. Mounted Games is an equestrian sport where riders play relay races on ponies up to 15 hands tall, demonstrating athletic ability, excellent riding skills, determination, perseverance, and a competitive spirit.

When: August 1 & 2, 2026  @ Essa Agriplex, 7505 10th Line, Thornton

BARRIE FUZION FEST

Barrie Fuzion Fest brings music, food, culture and community together on Barrie’s waterfront on July 19. The festival features international performances, dance, global cuisine, local vendors, artisans and family activities, creating a welcoming space for residents, newcomers, youth and families to celebrate diversity and connection.

When: Saturday, July 19, 2026 @ Will Dwyer Park,  81 Lakeshore Dr, Barrie

Orillia Waterfront Festival

Visit Orillia waterfront to see artists and artisans, vendors, water ski shows and much more!

When: August 7 to 9, 2026 @ Port of Orillia & Couchiching Beach Park.

Rockin’ the River

Participate in Rockin’ the River, a pre-registered guided tour where participants will either kayak or canoe down the Nottawasaga River from the Wasaga Beach Sports Park to Schoonertown Park. The paddle should take about 3 hours. Along the way there will be 10 different spots where musicians will be set up and performing.

When: August 8, 2026, 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m @ Wasaga Beach Sports Park to Schoonertown Park.

Alliston Potato Festival

You don’t have to head to PEI to celebrate potatoes! Enjoy a grand parade, and activities for the whole family including live entertainment, showcasing local talent, a beer garden, vendors, food booths and a midway from Friday night right thru to Sunday afternoon.

When: August 7 to 9, 2026 @ Church Street, Fairgrounds, Alliston

 

Boots & Hearts Music Festival

Head to Oro-Medonte for Canada’s largest country music festival.

When: August 7 to 9, 2026 @ Burl’s Creek Event Grounds, 8 Line South, Oro-Medonte

Gathering of the Classics

Every August, the ECAF hosts Canada’s largest fly-in of classic aircraft and autos. See classic airplanes and more!

When: August 8, 2026 @ Edenvale Aerodrome, Stayner

Midland Rib & Beer Festival

The Rib & Beer Festival is back for 2026, and Northern Rins Series is bringing some of the best BBQ in Canada. Get Ready For Mouth Waterin’, Finger Lickin’, Belly Rubbin’ Good BBQ!

When: August 14 to 16, 2026 @ David Onley Park, 475 Bayshore Dr, Midland

Carrot Fest

Celebrate the orange vegetable at one of Canada’s biggest carrot-producing regions. Carrot Fest is a two-day street festival featuring a diverse range of entertainers, events, and activities.

When: August  14-15, 2026 @ Downtown Bradford

Barrie Dragon Boat Festival

Participate in the annual Dragon Boat Festival, supporting local charities.

When: Saturday,  August 15, 2026 @ Heritage Park & Kempenfelt Bay

Theatre by The Bay

Theatre by the Bay celebrates 25 years of professional live theatre in Barrie with two productions. Forever Plaid brings nostalgic harmonies, humour and classic songs to the stage, while Treasure Island offers a lively, pantomime-style adventure filled with pirates, audience interaction, friendship and courage.

When: August 19 to 29  @ Five Points Theatre in Barrie

Gussapolooza Music Festival

This three-day grassroots celebration brings together emerging and established artists across rock, folk, pop, country, and hip hop on multiple stages. Beyond the music, there’s something for everyone: creative workshops, live art installations, a dedicated kids zone, a health & wellness area, food trucks, local craft vendors, and festival camping under the stars

When: August 21 to 23, 2026  @ Georgian Bay Steam Show Grounds, 4635 15th Line, Cookstown

Rama Powwow

Experience Indigenous culture at Rama Powwow, one of the biggest and best powwows in Ontario.

When: August 22 & 23, 2026  @ John Snake Memorial Community Multi-Purpose Grounds, Chippewas of Rama First Nation territory

Orillia Rib & Beer Festival

Savour the best BBQ ribs at the Orillia leg of the Northern Heat Rib Series! Indulge in perfectly cooked ribs from from the best BBQ Ribbers around, offering a flavour-packed adventure unlike any other.

When: August 21 to 23, 2026  @ Tudhope Park, 450 Atherley Rd, Orillia

Barrie Fair

Celebrate all things agriculture and more through delicious food, bench shows and a fantastic midway!

When: August 27-30, 2026 @ Essa Agriplex, 7505 10th Line, Thornton

Creemore Springs Copper Kettle Festival

Visit downtown Creemore for live music, great food and drink, brewery tours, local makers market and kids’ activities!

When: Saturday, August 29, 2026  @ Creemore

Carnival Barrie

Experience the vibrance of Latin America during Carnival Barrie.

When: September 5 & 6 @ Will Dwyer Park, 81 Lakeshore Dr, Barrie

Pirate Party

On Labour Day Weekend, the Pirates of the Orillian Sea invade Orillia’s Downtown Waterfront, bringing life-sized pirate ships, historical re-enactors, fencing and artillery demonstrations, a pirate encampment village, live music, and a downtown scavenger hunt for all ages.

When: September 4 to 6, 2026 @ Orillia Downtown Waterfront

Memories of Summer

Say goodbye to summer with fireworks and live entertainment during this annual Labour Day weekend festival!

With delicious food trucks offering tasty bites to fuel the fun, the day is packed with vibrant music, entertainment, and non-stop energy. As the night draws to a close, prepare to be wowed by a spectacular fireworks display at 10 PM that will light up the sky and bring this epic celebration to an unforgettable conclusion.

When:  September 3–5@ Wasaga Main Beach

Places to Visit

Explore Nearby cities and towns:

Explore the Waters

Enjoy a boat cruise along Georgian Bay with Landmark Cruises (Speedboat tour from Midland), Georgian Shores Boat Tour from Penetanguishene and Collingwood Charters from Collingwood.

Nancy Island Historic Site

Take a guided walking tour of Nancy Island Historic Site with a knowledgeable historical interpreter. Learn about HMS Nancy, her crew and their role in the War of 1812 while exploring key features of the site. Admission is free, with guided tours available for $5 per person, taxes included. @ 119 Mosley Street, Wasaga Beach.

Walk the purple fields!

Visit South Bay Fields in Collingwood or Purple Hill Lavender Farm in Creemore to experience gorgeous views of lavender while enjoying a relaxing stroll amid the purple fields.

Visit Ontario Parks for Free

Borrow a day-use vehicle permit from your local library and visit Ontario Parks for free. Park admission is also free on July 18th.

Vettä Nordic Spa

Visit this Finnish-inspired Nordic day spa that celebrates Finnish lifestyle and culture. — 3210 Line 3 North, Oro-medonte

Relax at the Sunnidale Park Arboretum

The Sunnidale Park Arboretum is a nature photographer’s dream – with an immense variety of trees, shrubs, and flowers, this rainbow of flora makes for a serene environment to get away from the city — 227 Sunnidale Rd, Barrie.

Pack a picnic and head to the Barrie Centennial Park and Beach

Summertime calls for picnic baskets, parks, and beaches to really bask in the sun’s rays, and there is no better place in Barrie than the Centennial Park and Beach – a family-friendly site that looks over beautiful Lake Simcoe.

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Explore Discovery Harbour

Experience Discovery Harbour brought to life through immersive living history.  Costumed historical interpreters animate this former 19th‑century British naval and military base with demonstrations, storytelling, and hands‑on activities that reveal daily life during the War of 1812 era.

South Simcoe Railway

Take a train ride back in time with South Simcoe Railway. You can enjoy a wonderful trip through the Beeton Creek Valley on this historic train – Ontario’s first steam heritage railway.

Check out the Spirit Catcher Sculpture

Sitting on Barrie’s waterfront since 1987, this sculpture was constructed by Ron Baird with the influence of the iconography of Indigenous oral traditions. 21 meters high, this amazing piece beautifully responds to the environment around it. Details

Slip ’n’ Slide, Sun Flowers, Corn Maze and More

The Rounds Ranch in Elmvale offers a fun-filled western experience with many exciting events for the whole family to enjoy this summer. There are 25 thrilling activities, including Slip n’ Slide, sunflower fields, a petting zoo, a corn maze, zip lines, pony rides, water activities, a playground and so many other enjoyable activities. Each more exciting than the other, so you’ll never run out of things to do.  

Go ziplining with Treetop Trekking

Unleash your inner adventurer at the Treetop Trekking aerial course and zip line. Inspired by a treetop adventure park in Grenoble, passionate and energetic staff members ensure that visitors have a fun day out on the course.

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Cycle through Heritage Park

This perfectly manicured park is a great spot to enjoy the many summer events or simply relax in peace and quiet overlooking Lake Simcoe. Heritage Park (5 Simcoe St.) has a wealth of flora, fountains, and charm, and a biking and running trail for those looking to get some activity in.

Hike on the Ardagh Bluffs

The Ardagh Bluffs are a lush green forest area with over 17 kilometres of recreational trails. These trails are abundant with species and are popular for hiking and walking in the summer months.

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Walk along Kempenfelt Bay

See how many of Barrie’s Lakefront parks, public art, and beaches you can visit on a 6.7 km paved Waterfront Trail hike along Kempenfelt Bay. Details

 

 

Splash On

Get a workout on the water. Try to cross the giant floating playground, boasting climbing walls, monkey bars, slides, and trampolines at 55 Lakeshore Drivein Barrie and 450 Atherley Rd in Orillia.

Play a round of mini-golf at Putt Mini Golf

When the summer sun is scorching hot, it is always better to have few back up plans, so that you can fun with kids! Putt Mini Golf is a great place for family fun, first dates, or just a cool activity to do with a group of friends. This glow in the dark indoor mini golf course is a visual wonder that can keep you entertained for hours.
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Join for Chappell Farms Summer Festival

Visit farm animals, run on the hay bale run, ride on the track, walk the walking trail and do a scavenger hunt during Chappell Farms’ Summer Festival and Zoo!

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Go trampolining at X Play

Take your trampolining experience to the extreme with trampolining laser tag, challenge your friends on the battle beam or in a dodgeball match, and jump into the foam pit, and get your adrenaline pumping at X Play.
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Movies at Sunset Barrie Drive-In

Enjoy a movie under the stars from the comfort of your own car.

Sample some craft cider at the Heritage Estate Winery & Cidery

Using state-of-the-art equipment and tons of passion, owners Peter and Jocelyn McArthur strive to ensure their facility and wines are top quality. The Heritage Estate sells a full range of award-winning artisanal ciders, wines and sangrias, all made on-site with their Ontario-grown apples. They also offers guided tours.

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Spend a day on the golf course at the Bear Creek Golf Club

The Bear Creek Golf Club goes by the motto “Of the people, by the people, for the people,” offering a half-links, half-traditional course for no nonsense rounds of golf. After a couple of rounds, stop by the clubhouse for a tasty meal and a glass of wine.
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Downtown Historical Walking Tours

Join the staff of the Penetanguishene Centennial Museum & Archives on a historical walking tour of downtown Penetanguishene. Take a step back in time to when oxen roamed the streets and fur traders came to our shores. Learn the history of and view original photographs of many of the current homes and businesses on Water and Main Streets.

Go on a walking tour around Barrie

Six different official walking tours allow visitors and locals to take a step back into history and learn about the city of Barrie and its prominence in commerce. Within the modern streetscapes, homes, landmarks, and businesses remain, and their stories can be uncovered through one of these tours.

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Eat Italian with a view

Book a table at Il Buco Ristorante and enjoy fine Italian cuisine taking in lovely views of Kempenfelt Bay. Details

Or at Barrie’s famous waterfront restaurant

Have brunch, lunch or dinner at The Farmhouse Restaurant. Whether you choose Mac and Cheese or simple OJ, this awesome local restaurant by Chef Randy Feltis offering views of the Bay is sure to satisfy your cravings. Details

Lay around on Centennial Beach

Centennial Beach has no lack of amenities for outdoor summer fun – a 400-meter sandy beach, a kid-friendly playground and jungle gym, and a grassy area for picnics. Relax under the sun or chill under the shade at this welcoming and accessible beach.

Pick your own berries at Barrie Hill Farms

Pick your own strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, and apples this summer at the Barrie Hill Farms, as well as other vegetables in season. The fresh country air and scenic surroundings, along with a wagon ride to the field make for a great family activity.

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See races at the Sunset International Speedway

Mark your calendars this summer for NASCAR events running from June to September, and enjoy an exciting night at the races at the Sunset Speedway.

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Go scuba diving with Simcoe Diving

Start your journey in becoming a certified PADI diver, or simply explore the local dive sites in the area, including Centennial Beach’s famous J.C. Morrison Shipwreck, Johnsons Beach’s diversity of fish, and the visibility of Big Bay Point.

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Go Trail Riding

Experience the beauty of Oro-Medonte from the saddle, with a boutique trail riding experience at Glen Oro Farm.

Take your tennis rackets to Queen’s Park

The Barrie Community Tennis Club is a volunteer organization at Queen’s Park, providing tennis courts for friendly rallies or some hard competition.

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Wonder. Explore. Create.

Take kids to Curio, Barrie’s Exploration Hub. Curio is a 4000 square foot, boutique Children’s Museum with an emphasis on Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics (S.T.E.A.M). Details

View the majestic animals at the Elmvale Jungle Zoo

Protection and the conservation of wildlife is the aim of Elmvale Jungle Zoo. Over 30 acres with winding shaded trails offer an up-close and personal experience with animals from around the world.

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Tour the caves with the Scenic Caves Nature Adventures

One of Canada’s great natural wonders, the Scenic Caves features self-guided walking trails that wind through caverns and caves carved by Mother Nature over millions of years. Unique features, including a historic village, geological rock formations, and numerous lookouts, can be found around the caves.

Go paddling on Lake Simcoe

Barrie is blessed with the most incredible waterways in the county – rent a kayak or canoe, and head out onto one of the amazing paddle routes that range in length and difficulty.

Wye Marsh

Walk the boardwalk of The Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre, which protects 3,000 acres of Provincially Significant Wetlands and woodlands. — 16160 Highway 12 East, Midland.

Sun and Sands!

Is Wasaga Beach too crowded? Then, check your town’s website and head to the nearest Lake Simcoe or Georgian Bay beaches. Check the water advisory here.

Some of the famous beaches include Centennial Beach, 65 Lakeshore Drive, Barrie; Innisfil Beach Park, 676 Innisfil Beach Rd, Innisfil; and Couchiching Beach Park, 140 Canice St, Orillia. The Township of Tiny has 70 km of shoreline and five large beach parks at Woodland Beach, Bluewater Beach, Jackson Park, Balm Beach and Lafontaine Beach Park.

 

Stock up at the Barrie Farmers’ Market

No produce is better than that grown and harvested in the region. Support the local community by shopping for your meals this summer at the Barrie Farmers’ Market.

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Check out the wildlife at the Bear Creek Eco Park

Teeming with wildlife and vegetation is the Bear Creek Eco Park. Walk along the wooded trails and admire this tranquil oasis, set apart from the bustling city.

Read a book in the outdoor roof garden at the Barrie Public Library

Summertime calls for a little outdoor reading. Whether you’re diving headfirst into a mystery novel or swooning over a romantic storyline, the Barrie Public Library roof garden will envelop you in its atmosphere.
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Go windsurfing at Minet’s Point Park

Minet’s Point is considered Barrie’s cottage country in the city – this year-round resort destination is an outdoor playground for swimming, windsurfing, and boating in the summer months. After a day out on the water, pick up a cone at Canning’s Old-Fashioned Ice Cream Parlour and watch the sunset.

Check out Summer Fun at Horseshoe Resort

Start off your summer with a splash at the big inflatable obstacle course at the Horseshoe Resort, then, partake in the other activities offered on-site like the climbing wall, ATV rides, chairlift rides, and other watersports.

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Sip on a cold beer at the Flying Monkeys Craft Brewery

The Flying Monkeys Craft Brewery started from one man’s curiosity. Their mandate, “Brew Fearlessly”, led them to create radical and creative beers and ales popular around the region.
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