THE BEST 20 THINGS TO DO IN MUSKOKA IN 2020

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The Best 20 Things To Do In Muskoka in 2019

Every year, we're asked the same big question: what are the best things to do in Muskoka while we're here visiting? We decided to poll our staff and compile the 20 Best Things to Do in Muskoka based on the most commonly given recommendations. Discover all Muskoka has to offer, from live entertainment to mountain biking nature trails. We want you and your family to have an authentic Muskoka experience that will get you excited to visit us year after year. 

The Best 20 Things To Do In Muskoka in 2020

1. Attend a concert at the Kee to Bala.

The Kee to Bala has been a Muskoka Summer tradition since 1942 and is home to legendary summer concerts including The Tragically Hip, Kim Mitchell and the Sam Roberts Band to name a few. The Kee hosts resort nights every Monday with unique themes from Wild Wild West to Mardi Gras. Browse the Kee to Bala's upcoming concerts and events to select a live show that lines up with your Muskoka stay.  

Visit the Kee to Bala Website

2. Watch the Water Ski Show.

Summer Water Sports have been performing water-ski shows since the '70s, and have continued this family cottage tradition every summer. The shows are thrilling and entertaining for people of all ages. Watch members of the Canadian National Ski Show Team and Team SWS as they shock audiences with death-defying stunts, technical sophistication and, of course, comedy for the kids. All shows are open to the general public. Muskoka Shows start at 7:30 PM - rain or shine.

Visit the Summer Water Sports Website

3. Go mountain biking.

Muskoka's mountain biking trails offer the breathtaking scenery of Canadian Cottage Country. Rent a bike and wind through the hidden paths of the forest. Taboo Muskoka is surrounded by a great selection of mountain biking trails. Visit our front desk to pick up a trail guide and chart your next ride.

Visit the Explorers' Edge for Mountain Biking Trails

4. Pig out at Muskoka RibFest.

Your Muskoka stay isn't complete without a chance to indulge in delicious BBQ. The Muskoka RibFest is held in Gravenhurst in conjunction with the In-Water Boat and Cottage show. RibFest attracts a variety of competitive barbecuers from across North America. The festival is equipped with live entertainment, boat and cottage exhibits, a fully-stocked beer tent, and of course, a wide selection of BBQ food.

Visit the Discover Muskoka for RibFest Details

5. Window shop at the Annual Antique and Classic Boat Show.

If you have an appreciation for boats, you'll certainly appreciate over 100 antique and classic models displayed at this annual spectacle. If you don't have an interest in boats, the annual show also offers a display of vintage cars, a fashion show, a flea market, and even a KidZone for families. Did we mention it's completely free? Find out if your trip to Muskoka lines up with this historical show.

Visit the Antique and Classic Boat Society Toronto for Details

6. Swim at the Bala Falls.

The Bala Falls offer an opportunity to immerse yourself in a picturesque Canadian summer landmark. The Bala Falls connect Lake Muskoka and Georgian Bay in a stunning show of rapids, however, the north falls offer recreational swimming. Bring your swimmers, pack a picnic and bring your family for a day in the sun. After your dip, be sure to wander around Bala and pop into the various shops.

Visit Discover Muskoka for all the Waterfalls in Muskoka

7. Zipline through the trees at the Aerial Park.

Looking for a thrill? There's an exciting outdoor adventure waiting for you in Santa's Village. The park offers a selection of hurdles, including the Zip Line Canopy Tour, the Aerial Adventure Course, and the Jump Tower. Challenge yourself by scaling rope bridges, overcoming obstacles, and taking a dive off a 41-foot platform. This is a great way to get your heart beating but make sure to plan a relaxing evening to unwind later.

Visit the Aerial Park Website

8. Unwind at the Sawdust City Brewing Co.

Sawdust City Brewing Company is dedicated to the art and science of creating exceptional craft beers. They produce traditional ales in an array of styles, but there is nothing traditional about the flavour. The brewmaster and his talented team create award-winning exciting beers that expand the borders of traditional flavour profiles. The focal point of the Tap Room is a 24-foot live-edge bar milled from a 100-year-old naturally felled pine tree, honouring the long history of logging in Muskoka. Brewery tours are available throughout the week in the summer, and Saturdays only during the winter.

Visit the Sawdust City Brewing Co. Website

9. Play at Sportsland.

Sportsland is the ultimate haven for families looking to fill their day with activity. Kids and kids at heart can find a number of attractions at Sportsland including go-karts, bowling, bungee trampoline, laser tag, batting cages, mini golf, climbing wall, an arcade, and more. Sportsland is the perfect alternative for anyone weary of facing their fear of heights in the Aerial Park.

Visit Santa's Village Website for Details

10. Feel festive in Santa's Village.

Both the Aerial Park and Sportsland are attractions in the Muskoka's iconic Santa's Village. Who said December is the most wonderful time of the year? Santa's Village offers a taste of Christmas cheer in the hot month's of summer. You can expect 60 acres of activities nestled on the bend of the Muskoka River in Bracebridge. The village includes rides, live entertainment, petting zoos, and Santa himself. Stop at Comet's Cafe for freshly roasted coffee or pick up homemade gourmet fudge at Mrs. Claus' Bake Shop.

Visit Santa's Village Website for Details

11. Take a scenic photo from the Dorset Lookout Tower.

The Dorset Lookout Tower is 100 feet tall with an observation deck that promises a gorgeous view 465 feet over Lake of Bays. The tower was built in 1967 and has since become a traditional and iconic stop for Muskoka visitors. From the top of the tower, you are rewarded with a 360-degree view of the treetops stretching across the landscape. Algonquin Highlands even records a live stream from the top of the tower so you can see the conditions. If you're still feeling adventurous, pick up a copy of the nearby hiking trails and finish the day with a climb through the forest.

Visit the Algonquin Highlands Website for Details

12. Board the Summer Music Dinner Cruise.

Peter's Players presents the annual Summer Music Dinner Cruise. Board the Wenonah II, North America's oldest operating mail steamship, for a four-hour scenic cruise on Lake Muskoka. In 2020, you can expect incredible performances from Brian Neale & Northern Harbour (Jimmy Buffett Tribute) and New Kid In Town (Eagles Tribute). Arrive hungry and feast on a buffet-style dinner. This cruise sells out every year!

Visit Peter's Players for Event Details

13. Support the local community at the Bala Cranberry Festival.

The Bala Cranberry Festival started in 1984 with a mission to extend the tourism season and help support the local community. The festival boasts 30 years of vibrant community spirit and offers visitors a variety of vendors, a farmers market, live music, a corn maze, petting zoo, and more. A visit to Johnston's Cranberry Marsh and Muskoka Lakes Winery should definitely be a part of your festival experience. The fall fair atmosphere promises everyone an enjoyable time.

Visit the Bala Cranberry Festival Website

14. Dinner and a show at the Gravenhurst Opera House.

Summer Theatre Season promises something special for everyone. The Gravenhurst Opera House is a tradition worth coming back for. The historic venue hosts live theatre, comedy, concerts and entertainers year-round. Catch a musical or share laughs at a comedy show. The Opera House even offers dinner packages so you don't have to rush from your meal to the opening number. Find out who is touring through town during your Muskoka stay.

Visit the Gravenhurst Website for Details about the Opera House

15. Get artsy at The Group of Seven Outdoor Gallery.

You probably haven't been to an art gallery like this one. Walk along an outdoor trail that features over 90 incredible mural replicas of the Group of Seven's iconic work. 20th-century Canadian art comes to life in the very landscape that inspired its conception. You can embark on a solo tour or join a group of 10-15 people in a guided tour led by Artistic Director Gerry Lantaigne.

Visit the Group of Seven Outdoor Gallery Website

16. Plan a day trip to Algonquin Park.

Maybe you're not ready to sleep under the stars, it doesn't mean you can't stop to admire the breathtaking scenery Algonquin Park has to offer. The Algonquin Park Visitor Centre has world-class exhibits on the park's natural and human history, a relaxing restaurant and an excellent bookstore. A theatre presentation sums up the park's story and ends with a trip to the viewing deck from where you can admire a breathtaking panorama of the wild Algonquin landscape.

Visit the Ontario Parks Website for details about Algonquin Park

17. Drink a flight at Muskoka Brewery.

Venture off the beaten path to Muskoka Brewery. Tours are always free and provide visitors with in-depth brewery tours where you have an opportunity to sample Muskoka beer, learn the Muskoka Brewery origin story and talk to their Brewers who are knowledgable and passionate about making fresh, high-quality beer. Roam around the 40,000 sq ft location located in downtown Bracebridge, but don't leave until you've finished a flight of samples.

Visit the Muskoka Brewery Website

18. Travel back in time at Muskoka Heritage Place.

Museum, village and portage flyer train? Muskoka Heritage Place is the primary historical centre in Huntsville, featuring two museums,18 authentic pioneer buildings, and a genuine open-aired train ride, all situated on a beautiful 90-acre site. Touch the past at Muskoka Heritage Place, the home of the Muskoka Museum, Muskoka Pioneer Village and the Portage Flyer Train. Muskoka Heritage Place was named one of Muskoka's Must-Do Experiences.

Visit the Muskoka Heritage Place Website

19. Watch a movie at the Muskoka Drive-In.

If you're still hungry for a little nostalgia, drive over to the Muskoka Drive-In for an outdoor film. Still not satisfied? The Drive-In offers 50 cent popcorn refills that are sure to hit the spot. Unwinding with a movie is the perfect way to finish up an action-packed day before retiring to your cottage or resort. You can visit their website to stay up-to-date with the latest movies or call their 24-hour movie hotline.

Visit the Muskoka Drive-In Website

20. Sunset cruise on Lake Muskoka.

Watch the sun go down surrounded by the beautiful and rugged vista of the Canadian Shield. One of our favourite parts of the Lake Muskoka cruise is admiring the gorgeous cottages. Enjoy a live commentary about the history and local lore followed by a sunset dinner. Sunset Cruises is an alternative to the larger ships and can show you Muskoka scenery accessible only by our smaller ships.

Visit Discover Muskoka for details about the Sunset Cruises.

Stay With Us in Muskoka

We offer a number of activities at Taboo Muskoka that will give you the authentic Canadian Muskoka experience. We offer spectacular golf, tennis, three swimming pools, a private sandy beach, winding nature trails, and a number of other events and activities for singles, couples and families. Come visit us this year in Muskoka!

Book your stay and play getaway at Taboo Muskoka.