Mount St. Louis Moonstone5.4
Skiing
Mount St. Louis Moonstone is a popular ski resort in Ontario, Canada, located about a 20-minute drive north of Barrie, with convenient transportation…
24 Mt St Louis Rd W, Coldwater, ON L0K 1E0, Canada
Simcoe County Travel Guide 2026: Top Attractions, Local Food & Travel Tips | Trip.com
Simcoe County
Trending in Simcoe County
About Simcoe County
16℃
16°Clear
18° / 10°
- 10/26Tomorrow
Intermittent clouds12° / -2° - 10/27TueMostly cloudy8° / 2°
- 10/28WedIntermittent clouds13° / 7°
- 10/29ThuMostly cloudy19° / 7°
- 10/30FriPartly clear13° / 7°
- 10/31SatIntermittent clouds13° / 7°
Must-visit attractions in Simcoe County
Looking for things to do in Simcoe County? We provide up-to-date info on everything from must-see scenic spots to local hangouts.
Must-try food in Simcoe County
Want to eat like a local? Don't miss out on these top Simcoe County dishes and foodie spots.
Western cuisine
Quick bites
Bars/bistros
Recent events and experiences in Simcoe County
Traveller photos and experiences
A great weekend farm destination for adults, children, and couples.
Isa may not be a big city, but it is precisely because it is chill enough that the whole person feels comfortable! Bringing family and friends to Laura's Farm Stand this weekend, I really felt deeply: whether it's a parent-child family, a couple dating, or simply to relax with a few close friends, this is the most down-to-earth and fun option for Ersa. Highlights of the itinerary The most attractive thing about Laura's Farm Stand is the sunny farm atmosphere and craft experience! After visiting the farmhouse you can pick fresh vegetables, fruits, and taste many farm handmade foods. Whether children or adults, walking in will have fun and forget to leave - especially suitable for families to enhance the relationship, couples weekend itinerary enough hipster, together to take pictures and check-in is really not difficult. Laura's Farm Stand fun recommendations Pick fresh agricultural products The farm has a large area of seasonal fruits and vegetables, where you can pick your own organic tomatoes and sweet peppers and experience the "farmer's life" for yourself. The children will be so happy that they don't want to leave, and the adults will have a sense of satisfaction immediately holding the fresh birth. Farmers Experience and Craft Workshops Usually outings and visiting farmhouses are to watch people feed sheep and rabbits, but here there are various DIY workshops, including homemade jams and bread snacks. Parents and children participated in the production process together, the atmosphere was super warm! Some holiday-only farmland tours are also led by instructors to learn about sustainable farming and natural food knowledge. Idyllic picnic area When traveling, you can't miss a picnic! The farm offers outdoor picnic spots for rent, where you can bring your own placemats, food, or purchase farm-ready snacks, sit in a large grassy area and relax, listening to the chirping of insects and birds. It's perfect for having a relaxing day with your partner, slowing down and enjoying afternoon tea. Check-in at the canteen The farm concession department focuses on local produce and homemade handmade delicacies such as organic honey, artisan sauces and authentic breads. 📍Address Laura's Farm Stand is located in Ersa, detailed location can be searched directly for navigation, very easy to find. ⏰ Farm opening hours: Advance inquiries or reservations are recommended, some experiences/DIY require reservations. Practical tips · On weekends or holidays, it is recommended to arrive early or reserve a spot, DIY workshops are especially likely to fill up. · Remember to bring a sun hat, sunscreen, because the farm has more outdoor activities and is prone to sunburn in summer. · Remember to bring plenty of water and small snacks with children, the farm area is large and the walking time is longer. · Friends who like photography do not miss the sunset, large grass / flower field background + dusk beyond the video! Overall, Laura's Farm Stand is indeed an unmissable weekend destination for parents and couples in Osa. Get close to nature, experience farmhouse and food, and buy fresh produce. Check in well. #parent-child activities #essa trips #weekend destinations #farm experiences #life aesthetics
A Perfect Weekend Getaway Near Toronto: Explore the Pumpkin World at Laura's Farm Stand
Discover the magic of autumn in Essa at Laura’s Farm Stand! During pumpkin season, this spot becomes a local favorite for stunning photos. Whether you're on a family outing or a relaxing escape, the rustic fields filled with pumpkins offer a truly therapeutic experience. 🥰 Snap some photos first, then bring home a fresh pumpkin to whip up some soup or pie for that perfect autumn vibe. What started as a simple local stand transforms every fall into a vibrant "pumpkin town." Visitors of all ages will love the sight of golden, orange, and uniquely shaped pumpkins covering the ground 📸. You can wander through the patches—some pumpkins are so massive they double as seats! It’s incredibly Instagram-friendly. Beyond the photo ops, you can shop for fresh farm produce, including homegrown fruits, local handmade jams, and honey. The staff are incredibly welcoming, and you might even find pumpkin soup or light snacks. The farm has a cozy, intimate feel, offering a peaceful rural escape if you visit during off-peak hours. 🕒 Essential Info Address: Laura's Farm Stand, Essa (Best to use Google Maps for the exact location) Hours: Seasonally open, typically Fri–Sun, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM during the fall. Be sure to check their current schedule before visiting. Admission: Generally free entry; pumpkins and produce are priced individually. Transportation: Driving is the most convenient option, with parking right next to the farm for easy access. 🍂 Pro Tips Weekends in the fall can get busy, so aim for a weekday or arrive right at opening to beat the crowds and get the best shots. Wear a hat for sun protection and comfortable shoes, as the fields can be a bit muddy and slippery. If you’re unsure which pumpkin to pick, the friendly staff can recommend the best varieties for soup, pies, or decorations. There's a simple joy in feeling the autumn breeze while carrying a cute little pumpkin. The slow-paced charm of this place makes it a wonderful yearly tradition to share with family and friends. Don't forget to check out the corn maze!
Great Weekend Getaways Near Toronto.
This trip takes us to a charming town in Ontario, Canada: Duncan. When it comes to must-eat spots near Duncan, you’ve almost certainly heard of Webers Burger! This charcoal-grilled burger joint isn't just a local favorite; travelers from all over make a special detour just to grab a bite. What makes it so special? Let’s break it down! 🍔 Trip Highlights Webers is arguably Ontario’s most popular burger destination. On summer weekends and holidays, you’ll always find a long queue. It’s not just about the hype—their burgers are grilled over real charcoal, giving every bite a unique, smoky aroma. Pairing a burger with their fries and a milkshake is pure bliss! If you’re a burger enthusiast or love hunting for local culinary gems, Webers is a must-try. 📌 Webers Essential Info Address: 8844 Highway 11 N, Orillia, ON L3V 6H3, Canada Opening Hours: Approx. 11:00 am - 8:00 pm (Hours may be extended during summer holidays; check for the latest updates before you go) 🥤 Webers Recommendations · Signature Classic Cheeseburger: Grilled over an open charcoal flame, the meat has a distinct flavor profile, perfectly layered with fresh lettuce and pickles. · Classic Fries: Served in generous portions, hot and crispy on the outside while soft on the inside—it’s not a complete meal without them. · Creamy Milkshakes: Silky smooth and rich. There’s nothing better on a hot day! 💡 Pro-Tips (From experience) 1. Webers gets incredibly busy. Try to arrive before peak meal times, or you’ll be facing a very long wait. 2. There is plenty of parking, but it can still reach capacity during peak hours; carpooling with friends is recommended. 3. The restaurant features vintage-style outdoor seating and iconic train car booths. They are perfect for photos, so don't rush off after eating! 🚗 Transportation Advice It’s about a 1-hour drive from Duncan to Webers in Orillia. It’s an ideal pit stop for a meal when you’re traveling along Highway 11. If you aren’t driving yourself, consider local transit or arranging a private shuttle so you can enjoy the journey stress-free. There is plenty of parking. 🍦 Nearby Recommendations After finishing at Webers, don't leave just yet! You can head to downtown Orillia to explore the historic streets or visit the Muskoka Lakes district. It’s the perfect summer vibe for hiking, boating, and photography.
A Perfect Weekend Family Escape to Laura's Farm Stand!
If you find yourself in Essa, the one place you absolutely cannot miss is Laura's Farm Stand! Whether you're a kid or a kid at heart, this place is full of surprises. With its laid-back, rustic vibe, it’s the ultimate spot to unwind and let the kids burn off some energy over the weekend. With seasonal themes and rotating activities all year round, there's never a dull moment! From exploring the fields to snapping the perfect photo, there truly is something for everyone. 🌾 Must-Try Fun at Laura's Farm Stand The moment you step into Laura's Farm Stand, you’re greeted by the fresh country air. Challenge your family to the massive corn maze or head to the autumn pumpkin patch for some stunning photos—every shot is a winner. You’ll also find craft stalls, a BBQ area, and a petting zoo where you can feed sheep, rabbits, and chicks. It’s a wonderful way to reconnect with your inner child. 🚜 Farm Experiences I highly recommend booking a farm tour in advance. You’ll get to learn about local farming methods and seasonal produce from expert guides. There’s nothing quite like the sense of achievement you get from picking your own fruit or digging up potatoes! Kids will love the mini-tractor rides, while adults can kick back with some local cider or wine tasting—cheers to a good time! 🎠 Entertainment & Facilities Beyond the farm activities, there are plenty of family-friendly facilities, including slides, jumping pillows, and an outdoor playground. On weekends, the atmosphere gets even livelier with live music and workshops. I once saw a pumpkin-tying contest where everyone was beaming from ear to ear! 🛒 Souvenirs & Tasty Treats Don’t leave without visiting the snack bar! The homemade caramel apples, roasted corn, and pumpkin pies are absolute must-tries, paired perfectly with a glass of authentic fresh apple juice. At the souvenir shop, you can pick up fresh farm produce, local honey, and apple jam to take home. 🛍️ 📍 Address & Opening Hours Address: Laura's Farm Stand, Essa (It’s best to check the nearest entrance and parking details on your GPS before heading out). Hours: Typically 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Hours may be extended during peak seasons like autumn weekends; check the official website before you go!) 🔔 Quick Tips 1. Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven farm terrain, and don't forget a hat, sunscreen, and bug spray. 2. Small pets are welcome in designated areas, but please follow the farm’s guidelines. 3. Since it gets busy, booking tickets online in advance is highly recommended to avoid the queues. 4. Looking for something low-key? Grab some snacks from the shop and enjoy a relaxing afternoon picnic on the grass. Laura's Farm Stand in Essa really has it all. Whether you’re looking for an action-packed day or a slow-paced retreat, it’s top-tier. Go ahead and capture some beautiful memories!
Recommended Farm Near Toronto.
Ersa, this charming Nordic-inspired town, might be small, but it hides several adorable autumn gems. The absolute must-visit highlight is Laura's Farm Stand! Overflowing with freshly harvested pumpkins, it instantly sets the perfect autumn mood. Whether you're visiting with friends, going on a date, or capturing heartwarming family photos, this is the place to create your fall memories! 🍂 Must-Visit: Laura's Farm Stand! Step inside and you'll find yourself surrounded by heaps of pumpkins in all sizes and colors—orange, white, green, and even quirky shapes. There are often local vendor stalls selling homemade jams, European-style bread, honey, and dried flower bouquets. You can also find handcrafted Nordic country-style ornaments, so watch your wallet because it's easy to overspend! 😂 The farm features a thoughtful outdoor seating area where you can relax with a cup of hot juice after picking your pumpkins. With wide-open fields as a backdrop and pumpkin patches everywhere, you won't even need a filter to get that perfect shot. For those with kids, take a stroll along the paths near the stand. You might spot adorable sheep and frogs! On weekends, there's often a mini farmers' market where you can taste freshly baked pumpkin pie and local poultry dishes—it's incredibly authentic! 📍 Location: Laura's Farm Stand Located on the outskirts of Ersa. You can drive or rent a bike in town (simply search for "Laura's Farm Stand" on Google Maps). 🕰️ Opening Hours Daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM throughout the autumn season (September to November). Hours may change due to weather or peak harvest times, so check their official Facebook or message them before heading out. 🍴 Foodie Tips · Look for the pop-up food stalls; the pumpkin soup and hot pumpkin bread are highly recommended—warm, comforting, and the true taste of fall! · On certain days, there’s a cake stall—don’t miss the pumpkin cake. 🎒 Travel Tips & Practical Advice 1. Bring your own shopping bags or a wagon; those pumpkins get heavy! 2. The ground can be muddy, especially after rain, so waterproof boots or sneakers are a must. 3. Make sure your camera or phone is fully charged—the photo ops are endless! 4. Look out for local farmer workshops or DIY activities you can sign up for on-site. Autumn just doesn't feel complete without a pumpkin patch visit! Laura's Farm Stand in Ersa is a cozy highlight for any fall itinerary. Whether you're here for the photos or to experience slow living on a farm, this place is a must-visit! Take great photos!
Awesome Summer Farm Getaway Near Toronto.
Simcoe County in Ontario has always been a popular weekend getaway for Greater Toronto Area residents. This time, I highly recommend Barrie Hill Farms, located in Springwater! Want to pick fresh strawberries, blueberries, and sweet corn yourself? Now is the perfect season! You don't need to travel to the middle of nowhere—just head over to Barrie Hill Farms to enjoy some rustic countryside fun and snap some gorgeous photos! 🍓🌽💙 🌱 Trip Highlights Sneak Peek Besides the super open environment and uncrowded flower fields under the blue sky, the best part about Barrie Hill Farms is that you can pick and buy all the fresh, seasonal produce you want! Strawberries, blueberries, and corn are the main stars. While experiencing the fun of picking your own, you can also bring fresh fruit home. It's great whether you visit on a weekday or the weekend, but the best time to go is definitely early in the morning to beat the crowds and enjoy the beauty of the farm as if you've booked the whole place to yourself! 🥄 Itinerary Guide 📍 Barrie Hill Farms Address: [2935 Barrie Hill Rd, Springwater, ON L9X 1S8, Canada] Hours: Open year-round 08:00 - 17:00 (Monday to Friday); 08:00 - 20:00 (Saturday, Sunday) 🍓 Stop 1: Strawberry Fields May to June is peak strawberry season in Simcoe County. Once you enter the farm, just follow the signs and you'll see endless strawberry fields. Make sure to bring a straw hat and sunscreen (they also sell sunscreen on-site). Take your time picking and eating along the way—the strawberries are incredibly sweet! 🫐 Stop 2: Blueberry Patch From July onwards, it's prime time for the best blueberries! The blueberry patch at Barrie Hill Farms is located right next to the wooden cabins. Picking blueberries here is quite effortless, so kids have a blast while adults can snap photos for social media and sneak a few bites. The farm also provides clear bags or baskets, perfect for individual or family portions. 🌽 Stop 3: Sweet Corn Fields July and August are all about sweet corn! The corn here is super fresh. I recommend arriving before 10 AM, as you can almost take home freshly picked corn right away. There's also a cooked corn snack kiosk where you can do a taste test on the spot—so sweet and juicy. 🍰 Handy Tips · Picking activities largely depend on the weather and crop growth. It's highly recommended to call ahead (+1 705-728-0571) the day before your visit to check. · We recommend bringing your own tote bags or reusable bags. Packaging is provided on-site, but bringing your own bags is a great way to support the environment. · The farm has a mini farmers' market. You can buy extra fresh veggies, fruits, or jams to take home for breakfast! 🚗 Transportation Guide Easily accessible by car, Barrie Hill Farms has a large parking lot. Just navigate directly to "Barrie Hill Farms" on Google Maps, and the signs along the way are very clear. It takes about 1.5 hours to drive from Toronto, making it a convenient and stress-free trip. Starting early is recommended. 🍽️ Farm Food Recommendations You absolutely must try their homemade baked blueberry pie and corn soup. The taste is outstanding, offering a super fresh local flavor that pairs perfectly with the farm's produce. 🔖 Practical Advice · If it rains, the grass can get quite wet, so waterproof shoes are recommended. · It gets pretty crowded during the peak picking season, so the earlier you arrive, the better. Remember to choose well-lit spots for taking photos, and bring your besties along to shoot some countryside-style OOTD pics!
$65 for a day of fun! Toronto's best value summer day trip!
Less than 30 minutes from Toronto, we finally found a super cost-effective summer day trip! Activities include: Boat cruise on the lake Fishing experience Swimming in the lake Water tubing Unlimited paddleboarding & kayaking Kayaking for photos Relaxing by the lake, sunbathing, and enjoying the scenery Perfect for: Friends' gatherings Family outings Couples' dates Anyone looking to take amazing summer photos Lake Simcoe's water is truly refreshing, and it's incredibly photogenic. On a nice day, every snap feels like a vacation! Departures every Tuesday and Friday Adults: $65 Children under 10: $55 534 Lake Drive South, Keswick, ON It's very close to Markham, Richmond Hill, and North York, about a 30-minute drive. It's perfect for a relaxing day on a weekend or holiday. Summer only comes once, don't miss out on the happiest day by the lake!
Lake Simcoe Day Trip | All-Inclusive for $65
Just a 30-minute drive from Toronto, the super popular Lake Simcoe Day Trip is back! Every Tuesday and Friday! 🚤 Boat cruise on the lake 🎣 Fishing experience 🏊 Swimming in the lake 🌊 Water tubing 🚣 Unlimited kayaking & paddle boarding One price covers everything! Perfect for friends' gatherings, family outings, or romantic dates—enjoy a full day of fun! 📅 Starting June 23 💰 Adults $65 | Children (under 12) $55 📍534 Lake Drive South, Keswick, ON
First-Time Skiing Experience & Therapeutic Sunbathing.
Coming to the incredibly stunning small town of Nottawa, Canada, ski beginners absolutely cannot miss Ski Snow Valley Barrie! It turns out Canada is a paradise for novice skiers. Not only is it highly cost-effective, but the entire ski resort has a top-notch environment. Even if you get tired halfway through, there's an outdoor lounge area where you can sit back, soak up the sun, chill for a bit, and then fly down the slopes all at once for an epic winter wonderland photo op. It's truly a blast! Such an amazing experience. Ski Resort Recommendation: Ski Snow Valley Barrie Ski Snow Valley Barrie is arguably one of the top choices for beginner skiers. There are plenty of ski runs to choose from, ranging from the simplest beginner slopes to longer, more complex trails. Don't worry if you don't know how to ski; the resort has a team of professional instructors offering one-on-one or group lessons, guaranteeing that even after a few tumbles, you'll be able to glide a few laps on your own within a day. Renting equipment and buying lift tickets can all be done on the spot in one go, hassle-free. When hitting the slopes under the icy blue sky, sunlight occasionally cascades onto the wooden chairs in the outdoor rest area. People sprawl out bathing in the sun, chatting with friends, or grabbing a cup of hot cocoa while watching other visitors speed energetically across the snow. The vibe is super relaxing. Looking down from the slopes, you're surrounded by trees with endless distant views. Canadian winters are both therapeutic and spectacular—perfect for taking Instagram-worthy photos against the blue sky! 📍 Ski Snow Valley Barrie Address: 2632 Vespra Valley Rd, Minesing, ON L9X 0G8 Opening Hours: Daily 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM (subject to change depending on weather) Practical Skiing Insights + On-Site Tips 1. Beginners shouldn't be afraid of falling. You'll get the hang of it after practicing a few times. Pay attention to the instructions when getting on and off the lift, and don't get distracted. 2. If you feel cold, remember to wear multiple layers. Gloves and hats must be thick. You can rent equipment on-site, so there's no need to lug bulky ski boots around. 3. It's recommended to book your lift tickets online to save time. 4. You can drop off your gear in the rest area. There's a cafe selling hot drinks and snacks, and shops offer ready-to-eat hot dogs and noodle soup. Line up early during peak hours. Transportation Suggestions If you're driving from Nottawa or Barrie, it takes about a 15-20 minute drive, which is extremely convenient. Snowy roads are usually well-cleared for road trips in Canada, but you should still drive slowly—safety comes first. Food Recommendations After skiing, why not try the grilled cheese sandwich and hot chocolate at the Snow Valley Chalet? You can enjoy warm comfort food while slowly regaining your energy for the next challenge on a higher-difficulty slope. Teaser Don't want to head straight back to downtown after having fun at the Snow Valley ski resort? Actually, there are a few nice walking snow trails near Nottawa. They're perfect for the afternoon when the sun is shining bright—whether you're hiking or just taking a stroll, it's an absolute joy.
Hidden Gem in Ontario: Goffatt Island
Canada · A Secluded Hidden Island📍Exact Location: 44.5747°N, 79.3581°W (Just a short drive from Atherley town, about 15 minutes by car) 🌊 A tranquil jewel hidden in the middle of Lake Simcoe A stunning, paradise-like secluded island✨ · Pristine lake island, 0 commercialization! · Surrounded by unbeatable 360° beautiful lake views🌅 · No residents to disturb, enjoy peaceful moments alone ⚠️ Key point alert~ This is NOT the UNESCO volcanic island in the South Atlantic! Important to distinguish: · The Canadian version is a freshwater lake island · Stunning visuals: white clouds + green trees + mirror-like lake = perfect composition · Ideal for daydreaming, kayaking, picnicking, and photography🏕️ 📸 Photo guide to remember: ✔️ Tree shadows by the lake (super atmospheric!) ✔️ Gorgeous golden lake surface at sunset ✔️ Drone shots of the entire island (a must for your social feed) 💡 Practical tips for visiting: · Bring your own snacks (the island is very primitive with no shops) · Wear non-slip shoes (the rocky paths can be slippery) · Best visiting season: May to October (warm and comfortable) · Remember to bring trash bags, everyone is responsible for protecting the environment ✨Different activities for each season✨ 🌸 Spring (April-May): Gentle morning mist + fresh greenery + various water birds, very fairy-like! 🌞 Summer (June-August): Clear lake water + cool shade + stunning sunsets, perfect for vacation~ 🍁 Autumn (September-October): Golden maple leaves + calm lake surface + comfortable temperatures, a photographer’s paradise! ❄️ Winter (November-March): Snow-covered scenery + rime ice views + ice activities, a unique experience! ⚠️ Important distinction: · Australia’s Gove Peninsula vs Canada’s Goffatt Island · The former offers wild island beauty, the latter peaceful lake island charm Tips: 1. Recommended to drive yourself, navigate to Atherley town dock 2. About 10-15 minutes by boat to reach the island 3. Arrive early to catch the most beautiful morning light~
