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Do not let the size of Penetanguishene fool you; this Georgian Bay town may be small but is packed with things to see, do, and experience.
Credit: Landmark Cruises
This starts with simple things like dining and accommodations, which both come in a wide variety. But beyond those, the town has many things to celebrate over the summer, such as beaches and parks with helpful amenities, a rich marine history, and much more.
A premier way to see Penetanguishene is by boat! There are tour operators and rental services, plus a local boat launch, all of which help make this a convenient way to explore.
Water Adventures and Beach Fun on the Georgian Bay
- Rotary Champlain Wendat Park, near the Penetang Harbour, has many amenities to make it a perfect location for setting up for a beach day. The park has covered picnic areas, washrooms, picnic tables, volleyball nets, a playground, a splash pad, and a sandy swimming area on the water. The trails within the park connect to Penetanguishene’s Main Street and all the area’s dining or shopping.
- For a much quieter beach experience, the town also offers Huronia Park beside the Foundry Cove Marina. The area also has picnic tables, washrooms, and a sandy beach space.
- These beaches are great for those wanting to swim in Lake Huron’s waters. For those wanting to explore more of Lake Huron and Georgian Bay, there are local tour guides who can help you out in some fun ways. Landmark and Georgian Spirit Cruises both offer sightseeing or dinner cruises.
- Diverse Rentals offer private boat tours, as well as rentals for DIY boating adventures. Diverse rents out motorized and non-motorized watercraft.
The Area’s Best Waterfront Trails
Penetanguishene’s Rotary Park and main beach have a small trail system that loops through the park and follows the waterfront. This main trail connects hikers or cyclists to Main Street, past historical plaques and monuments, past public art, and the museum. There are many more trails to explore in the area, too!
- Follow the Discovery Harbour Trail northeast from Rotary Park to hit the museum, Bob Sullivan Park and picnic areas, and eventually the Ecology Garden. This public garden is a great place for a waterfront picnic as well!
- The Copeland Creek Trail is a great place to get some shade, view nature and wildlife, and take a fairly simple walk on the southern side of Penetanguishene.
- The Payette Trails are a shorter series of loops through a wooded area on the east side of Penetanguishene with picnic sites nearby.
Historical or Cultural Attractions & Tours
A simple walk around the local parks, trails, and streets will provide great insight into the area’s history. There is much on display, which makes it easy to create your own self-guided historical tour of Penetanguishene.
- Discovery Harbour is a local historic site and museum in town open May to October each year for visitors to enjoy the exhibits. The museum houses artifacts on the area’s shipbuilding, shipwreck, and marine heritage.
- While at Discovery Harbour, try to catch a show at the King’s Wharf Theatre in the same parking lot. They host live concerts and musical theatre performances.
- Penetanguishene Centennial Museum is open year-round with extended hours from May to October. The history of the area is on display through photos and other archival materials, donated artifacts, and the building itself.
Discovery Harbour
Summer Events & Festivals
Take in the sounds of local music, the stories from the town’s rich history, and plenty of family-friendly fun, through the summer celebrations and parties in Penetanguishene.
- Bayside Summer Soiree takes place at Rotary Champlain Wendat Park’s outdoor Amphitheatre all summer long (June-August). Enjoy Friday night concerts, outdoor movies, and a special Youth Night.
- Join Discovery Harbour for the summer events and programming! Throughout the summer, they offer a Historic Blacksmith Workshop, séances, spooky Ghost Tours (which run weekly!), and an escape room, among other events.
- As with Discovery Harbour, visitors can also depend on the Centennial Museum for tons of summer fun and programming. Join them for a Canada Day party, or the Summer Kick-Off Event (early July) with Science North. Programs to catch all summer long include Historical Walking Tours or Family Fun Days.
Summer Dining in Penetanguishene
The easiest way to fuel your adventures or sightseeing around town is to start on Main Street. Penetanguishene will satisfy your hunger with a wide array of options, from sit-down restaurants to takeout spots.
- Explore the waterfront dining and seafood options around town like the World Famous Dock Lunch, or Clarence’s Classics (in the double-decker bus food truck!).
- Some of the closest Main Street Restaurants to the beach (possible picnic foods) include Wing House Penetang and Phil’s Family Restaurant.
- Sit down and enjoy on-site dining at restaurants like Captain Ken’s Diner, Northern Caribbean Restaurant, Flynn’s Public House, or Pizza Delight.
Places to Stay in Penetanguishene
There are some wonderful places to stay in this part of the Georgian Bay, including many right in town.
- Stay literally on the water at the Hindson Marina Floatel! This houseboat accommodation option includes a wraparound porch for enjoying your waterfront views. For a second waterfront option, head a bit out from the main town area to enjoy the views from the Georgian Bay Bed & Breakfast on Beacon Shore.
- There are many cool, unique, or simple waterfront accommodation options in Penetanguishene thanks to the rentals on Airbnb– these rentals include cabins, lofts, rooms in historic buildings, waterfront cottages, and entire homes.
