Blue Mountain is one of the most beautiful areas in Ontario and is well known as a skiing and golfing destination. However there’s a lot more to Blue Mountain, Collingwood and the surrounding areas. Whether you are an active out-doors type or prefer a more sedate vacation, this checklist of activities will keep you and your family entertained during your Blue Mountain vacation, even if you never set foot on the golf course or ski slope.
1. Scenic Caves Suspension Bridge
This is a fun afternoon trip for the whole family. The Suspension Bridge is at the highest point on the Niagara Escarpment so you’ll have a spectacular view of Blue Mountain, Georgian Bay, and Collingwood. It’s a pleasant hike to the Suspension Bridge or if you don’t want to walk, just hop aboard the country wagon. 260 Scenic Caves Rd, Blue Mountain. 705.446.0256 www.sceniccaves.com
2. Live Jazz & Blues
For more mature tastes, live music is always a great way to spend an evening. The Collingwood Jazz & Blues Society was created to present live blues and jazz concerts to locals and visitors to Collingwood. The 2010 Blues Series includes monthly concerts at the Arts Centre. Visit www.collingwoodjazz.ca for dates and times or call 705-444-4449 for information and tickets.
3. The Candy Factory
This is a fun activity for children of all ages. The Candy Factory uses old fashion candy recipes – you won’t find these treats at the corner store. From lollipops to brittles, fudge to chocolates, there is truly something for everyone. 645 Hurontario Street, Collingwood ON L9Y 2N6 705.445.2400 www.candyfactory.ca
4. Snowmobile Adventures – From Beginner to Advanced
Even if you’ve never been on a snowmobile, Ride On Rentals is something to check out. With tours and lessons designed for all ages and ability levels, this is an activity your whole family can enjoy. www.rideonrentals.com Collingwood Ontario. 705-293-0552
5. The Collingwood Museum
Visit the Collingwood Museum and learn more about the local history. Did you know that Collingwood has 150 years of marine heritage? Learn about it with the museum’s “Ship Sidelaunch” that runs every 15 minutes. 45 St. Paul Street, Collingwood, Ontario, (705) 445-4811 http://www.collingwood.ca/museum
6. Cardboard Castles Children’s Emporium
This fun-filled toy store in the historic village of Creemore is not run-of-the-mill. With wooden toys, eco-friendly and locally made items, plus clothing from newborn to youth size 16, you’ll find something for the child of any age. 172 Mill Street, Creemore, Ontario 705-466-9998 www.cardboardcastles.ca
7. Historic Sailing Cruise or Family Fishing Charter
Once the warm weather hits, your entire family can enjoy a four-hour cruise aboard the Endurable I, a replica of a sailing vessel built by the Watts brothers in Collingwood 150 years ago. For a more hands-on day, bring the kids salmon fishing on a family fishing charter.
If you’re good, the Captain may even let you try your hand at the wheel. Contact Summer Bound, 1-888-286-4528 or 705-445-5267, or http://www.summerbound.ca/activities/activities.htm
8. The Admiral’s Post Pub
This friendly pub is located in Schoolhouse Lane in downtown Collingwood. The Admiral’s Post offers traditional pub fare plus some interesting alternatives. Weekends see hearty traditional English breakfasts served until 2 p.m. There’s live music Friday evenings and Saturday afternoons. 2 School House Lane, Collingwood, Ontario. 705.445.1833 http://mycollingwood.ca/admiralspostpub.asp
9. Haunted Collingwood Walking Tours
Let the hairs on the back of your neck stand on end as your host takes you on this 75 minute tour of historic Collingwood. Tours leave Tuesday evenings from the Beild House Country Inn & Spa, 64 Third Street, one block south-west of Town Hall, across from the Collingwood Baptist Church. Just show up at the meeting point shortly before 9:00 p.m. and your guide will be waiting. Call the Collingwood Downtown BIA office at 705-445-5595 to learn more, or visit www.myeyeproductions.ca/hauntedwalk.html
10. Plunge! Aquatic Centre
If the kids are getting a little squirrelly or you just want a fun, family-friendly activity, Plunge! Aquatic Centre is open year-round. With indoor-outdoor pools, an indoor water playground, hot tubs, rope swings, docks and slides, plus comfortable deck chairs for those who prefer to stay dry, there is something for everyone, infant to senior. 220 Mountain Drive, Blue Mountains, Ontario, Located in the Village at Blue Mountain, Attached to The Westin Trillium House, Blue Mountain. 705.444.8705 www.plungebluemountain.ca
Come join us and bring this handy list with you. You’ll have a good vacation with the whole family.
