Towns To Visit Beyond Collingwood

Collingwood may be the star of Georgian Bay, and for good reason, but the beauty of this region extends far beyond its borders. Just a short drive in any direction, you’ll find scenic small towns to visit near Collingwood, which are filled with natural beauty, boutique shops, cozy cafés, and scenic spots that make for perfect day trips when you’re visiting Collingwood.

Whether you’re in Collingwood for a weekend getaway or exploring longer, these nearby towns add even more magic to your Collingwood adventure. You can also visit all of these towns near Collingwood when you take the Georgian Bay Ontario Road Tip. This is one of my favourite Ontario road trips which I highly recommend that you experience for yourself.

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I recently spent an entire week staying at the Living Stone Golf Resort in Collingwood, which was plenty of time for me to check out the best things to do in Collingwood, all of the fantastics restaurants, and bars where the locals hang out. I also had more than enough time to explore the beautiful small nearby towns that go beyond Collingwood.

⭐⭐⭐ Holiday Inn Express & Suites, Collingwood

⭐⭐⭐ Living Stone Golf Resort, Collingwood

⭐⭐⭐⭐ Living Water Resort & Spa, Collingwood

If you only have a weekend in Collingwood, you may be able to explore one or two of these charming towns, but it you have longer, you will have plenty of time to visit them all. Depending on what you want to do at each stop you will likely be able to visit two of more of these small towns in one day.

Blue Mountain: It’s All About Outdoor Adventure

Heading west from Collingwood, the first small town near Collingwood is Blue Mountain. Depending on what you want to do, you can easily spend an entire day at this European Village, but I recommend spending at least 2 hours.

During the winter, Blue Mountain is Ontario’s most popular ski resort, however, during the summer, you can spend time hiking, mountain biking, riding the gondola’s, or playing a round of mini-golf. There are also a large variety of restaurants which suit every budget. Blue Mountain is a must-visit if you’re travelling with children.

⭐⭐⭐⭐ Blue Mountain Resort Mosaic Suites, Blue Mountain

⭐⭐⭐⭐ The Westin Trillium House, Blue Mountain

Thornbury – Riverside Charm & Small-Town Luxury

Further down the highway only 15 minutes west of Collingwood, Thornbury is a picture-perfect waterfront town known for its boutique shops, local cider, and relaxed pace. Stroll along Bruce Street for unique finds, stop by The Cheese Gallery for a delicious snack, and don’t miss the Thornbury Harbour for stunning views of Georgian Bay. If you love local food and drink, pop into Thornbury Village Craft Cider & Brewery for a tasting flight in a charming historic setting.

Considering Thornbury is such a small town, it boasts 3 or 4 coffee shops/cafes which serve up home-made baked goods, freshly brewed coffee, and some gormet sandwiches which can be eaten in or taken out. If the weather is nice, I recommend grabbing a sandwich, coffee, and sweet treat to go and head to the harbour to set up a picnic.

I consider Thornbury to be one of Ontario’s hidden gems to visit on a road trip that should be visited by all road trippers.

⭐⭐⭐ Book Royal Harbour Resort, Thornbury

Meaford – Bay Views & Outdoor Vibes

Continue west along the shoreline to reach Meaford. Meaford is a scenic lakeside town about 25 minutes from Collingwood. Known for its laid-back vibe and natural beauty, Meaford is perfect for those who love outdoor adventure. Enjoy a walk along the waterfront, explore Beautiful Joe Park, or hit the trails at Bayview Escarpment Nature Reserve.

In fall, Meaford hosts the famous Scarecrow Invasion & Family Festival, where the whole town decorates with hundreds of creative scarecrows—it’s quirky, fun, and totally unique.

Driver’s Tip: Visit in the autumn when the trees lining the Beaver River are glowing with fall colours. It’s pure Ontario magic!

Owen Sound: Chasing Waterfalls

Just an hour’s drive northwest, Owen Sound makes for a perfect day trip from Collingwood. The scenic route along Highway 26 offers stunning views of Georgian Bay and rolling countryside, making the drive part of the adventure.

Owen Sound is also known as the “City of Waterfalls,” and exploring them is a must for visitors. Inglis Falls, just minutes from downtown, is the most famous, offering breathtaking views as water cascades over a limestone cliff. Nearby, you can also discover Jones Falls, an OwenSound hidden gem tucked within lush forest trails.

⭐⭐⭐ Best Western Inn on the Bay, Owen Sound

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ The Inn at Cobble Beach, Owen Sound

Creemore: Where Country Meets

About a 30-minute drive south of Collingwood, Creemore feels like stepping into a storybook village. It’s best known for Creemore Springs Brewery, where you can take a free tour and sample some of Ontario’s best craft beer.

Wander down Mill Street to explore local art galleries, bakeries, and quaint general stores. When in Creemore, make time to stop in at the Bank Bakery for some of the best carrot cake around. Once you visit, you’ll understand why Collingwood locals recommend a visit to Creemore a must-do.

Driver’s Tip: Don’t miss the Saturday Creemore Farmer’s Market from May to October. It’s known for fresh local produce and handmade goodies.

Stayner: A Gateway To Georgian Bay

Heading southeast from Collingwood, Stayner is a small town that’s often overlooked—but it’s a hidden gem for road trippers. Known for its warm community feel, Stayner has a growing food scene and several cozy cafés perfect for a pit stop on your way to Wasaga Beach or Creemore. Don’t miss Music, Market & Park It, the weekly summer festival with live music and local vendors.

Driver’s Tip: Grab a coffee at Good Grief Coffee Roasters—a local favourite for quality brews and friendly vibes.

Clarksburg: The Artsy Side Of Georgian Bay

Just a few minutes south of Thornbury lies Clarksburg, affectionately known as “Artsburg.” This little village is bursting with creative energy. Stroll through art galleries, visit Loft Gallery or Matilda Swanson Gallery, and explore the colourful main street lined with heritage buildings.

If you’re a lover of local art or small-town charm, Clarksburg is worth every minute of the short detour.

Wasaga Beach: A Popular Ontario Beach Town

Just 20 minutes north of Collingwood, Wasaga Beach is one of Ontario’s most iconic summer destinations — and for good reason. Known for having the longest freshwater beach in the world, Wasaga stretches for over 14 kilometres along the shores of Georgian Bay. Wasaga offers that quintessential small-town beach vibe that instantly puts you in vacation mode.

Beyond the beach, there’s more to discover in town. Wasaga is home to cozy cafés, family-run restaurants, and local shops that give it a welcoming community feel. Outdoor lovers can rent kayaks or paddleboards, or explore Wasaga Beach Provincial Park, which has scenic trails and picnic areas surrounded by dunes and pine forests. Visit in the summer for the lively beach atmosphere, or come in the quieter spring or fall months to enjoy peaceful shoreline walks and breathtaking sunsets.

A road trip to Wasaga Beach is best done on its way to Midland, or it can be a day trip on its own.

⭐⭐ Lakeview Resort Hotel, Wasaga Beach

⭐⭐⭐ Saga Resort, Wasaga Beach

Midland, Ontario: A Scenic Waterfront Gem On Georgian Bay

Just under an hour’s drive from Collingwood, Midland is a charming Georgian Bay town that perfectly blends history, waterfront beauty, and small-town charm. The drive itself is scenic, winding past rolling farmland and glimpses of the bay. This makes it a relaxing mini road trip in its own right.

Once you arrive, you’ll soon realize that Midland has lots to explore. Stroll along the Midland Harbour and take in the boats, and public art. I highly recommended grabbing lunch or a cold drink at Boathouse Eatery, which offers scenic views, lively, relaxed atmosphere, an extensive menu, and great people watching! Make sure you take in the beauty of Georgian Bay by taking a boat cruise with Georgian Spirit.

Downtown Midland offers a welcoming mix of local shops, cafés, and restaurants which are perfect for a laid-back afternoon. Don’t miss the Midland Murals, over 40 large-scale outdoor paintings that tell the story of the area’s past. For nature lovers, nearby Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre is a must-visit, with trails, boardwalks, and birdwatching. When you’re in this area, I also highly recommend visiting Sainte-Marie Among the Hurons. This is an inter-active working museum which is great for children.

⭐⭐⭐ Hampton Inn, Midland

⭐⭐⭐ Midland Inn & Suites, Midland

Small Towns To Visit Near Collingwood: In Conclusion

Exploring the scenic towns around Collingwood is what makes a visit to Georgian Bay truly special. Each community offers its own unique personality.

When visiting these towns near Collingwood, you’ll come across art, lots of food, nature, waterfalls, beer-tasting, and lazy lakeside afternoons. So next time you’re in Collingwood, I recommend hopping in your car and take a few short drives. I promise that you’ll find that every twist in the road brings another hidden gem waiting to be discovered.

PIN TO VISIT SMALL TOWNS FROM COLLINGWOOD