Road Tripping from Barrie to Aurora: The Best Places to See
Are you planning to drive from Barrie, Ontario to Aurora, Ontario and looking to make the most of your journey? Well, we have got you covered! The road from Barrie to Aurora is a scenic one, and there’s a lot to explore on the way. Whether you love unique natural landscapes, cultural experiences, or seek out hidden gems, this route has something for everyone. In this blog post, we'll take a look at some of the top places to see on the way, and hopefully, inspire you to make an adventure out of this short but beautiful drive.
Scenic Drives and Nature’s Beauty
Lake Simcoe: On the northern side of the route lies Lake Simcoe, a breathtakingly beautiful lake that spans over 722 km². The lake is perfect for an early morning or afternoon drive, but if you have some time in hand, you can stop by and explore its beaches, go for a swim or take a short hike, or even go fishing.
Thornton Bales Conservation Area: The Thornton Bales Conservation Area is a scenic nature reserve perfect for a quick stop. Drive through its rolling hills and enjoy the golden vistas as you pass through. A popular spot for hikers and bird watchers, you can get out of your car and take a short hike on its trails.
Sheppard’s Bush: On the other side of the road trip lies Sheppard’s Bush, a protected natural area that features beautiful woodlands, winding trails and bird watching opportunities. Stop by and breathe in the fresh air, which will get you in a peaceful mood before continuing your drive.
The Aurora Arboretum: The Aurora Arboretum is a beautiful park that boasts a stunning variety of trees – perfect if you’re a flora and fauna enthusiast. Stop here and take a stroll along the park trails and soak in the vibrant colors of the leaves.
Willow Beach Conservation Area: If you're a lover of sandy beaches and stunning waterfront views, you don't want to miss the Willow Beach Conservation Area. The beach is an ideal spot to relax for a while or go for a swim while enjoying the vistas of Lake Simcoe.
Learning and Getting Cultural
The Elman W. Campbell Museum: If you're interested in history, then the Elman W. Campbell Museum is for you. It features exhibits, archives, and artifacts that date back to the early 19th century. It's a perfect place to learn about how the region went through all the changes it has undergone over the years.
Hillary House National Historic Site: Hillary House is a historic house that was built-in 1862 and was home to three generations of the Hillary family. You can take a tour of the house and learn about local history and the lives of the people who once lived here.
Aurora Cultural Centre: The Aurora Cultural Centre is a hub for arts and culture, with an art gallery and studios that showcase works from local artists. The center also has a theater where they host a variety of cultural events throughout the year, so check their calendar in advance.
The Latcham Art Centre: If contemporary art is more your thing, then visit the Latcham Art Centre in Aurora. It features a collection of varied contemporary works, highlighting various art styles. Students usually show off their artworks, too, so it's a great place to check out future talent.
Aurora Farmers Market: If you're driving this route during the summer months, you should visit the Aurora Farmers Market, which runs every Saturday from May to October. With over 50 vendors selling locally made produce and artisanal products, it's a perfect spot to buy souvenirs to take home.
Conclusion
Now that you've got an idea of some of the top places to see on this drive from Barrie to Aurora, you can plan your pitstops accordingly. Whether you're in the mood for some history and culture, scenic drives in nature, or a bit of everything, this route has something for you. So, buckle up and start your adventure today!