Have an Autumn Adventure in Barrie

As summer ends, the days start to cool and we return to routine – let’s not forget to take some time out to explore our lovely region. Fall is a great time to spend time outdoors, it's not too hot and sticky and there’s still enough daylight. So, schedule some time to visit Barrie and GO where you can take in all the sights the city has to offer this fall.

Take GO Transit to Barrie

Start off your journey with a relaxing ride on GO Transit to Allandale Waterfront GO Station! Avoid the highway delays as you unwind with free shows and audiobooks courtesy of the GO Wi-Fi Plus entertainment portal. There’s no idling here except to catch up on sleep and your socials and reflect on the good decision to take GO Transit – the easy and affordable way to travel!

For weekend travel to Barrie, use a GO One-Day Weekend Pass — it’s just $10 for your roundtrip! If you’re heading to Barrie on a weekday, bring your friends and family. You can all travel together with a GO Weekday Group Pass, starting at just $30. And remember, kids 12 and under ride free on GO Transit  - making day trips to Barrie a breeze so you have more money to spend on attractions when you get there!

Discover the charm of Barrie’s heritage and explore the stunning waterfront on a bicycle! Bring your helmets and prepare for an energetic day of cycling – the perfect way to enjoy the vibrant fall foliage and scenic trails that make Barrie the perfect autumn getaway. Ride along the Waterfront Heritage Trail, a six-kilometre-long pathway that winds along the shores of Kempenfelt Bay. You’ll see remnants of old railway tracks near the General John Hayter Southshore Community Centre, and sites of early ice harvesting and breweries. If you continue on the trail, you’ll head towards the North Shore Trail. As you cycle along the bay’s northern edge, you’ll have unobstructed views of Kempenfelt Bay’s sparkling waters and the expanse of the autumn landscape. As the sun begins its descent, you can make your way to Barrie’s downtown for an early dinner and some lively entertainment before you head home on the GO Train.

Discover seasonal art exhibits and live theatre in Barrie

There’s a vibrant arts scene worth checking out in Barrie. You can experience theatrical productions that offer captivating performances as well as unique independent films featuring stories from Canada and around the world. There’s also live music, art exhibits plus an immersive pirate theatre that will thrill the whole family.

Don’t forget to experience some amazing theatrical productions this fall at Talk is Free Theatre. Check out White Taffeta Silk, set in a hotel laundry room, or Tales of an Urban Indian starring Justan Myers as a contemporary Indigenous man who grows up on the reserve and in Vancouver.  Find out what’s playing now.

Not far from the GO station is the marina and where the Pirate Life Theatre awaits. Ahoy, mateys! Prepare for an immersive pirate experience like no other. Upon arrival, you'll be greeted with pirate names and adorned with temporary tattoos to get you in the swashbuckling spirit. The crew will enthrall you with humorous tales full of action and adventure as you sail around on Kempenfelt Bay.

Catch a film screening at the Barrie Film Festival – there’s 160 events to choose from so you can watch a classic or something new and eclectic. You can stretch out under the stars for the outdoor screening which are weather dependent of course, so bring a blanket and some snacks! The film festival is from October 22-27 and more details will be shared here.

If you are an art lover, you must visit Seeds to Sow a temporary exhibition of public art, from September 28 to November 8 in downtown Barrie and along the shore of Kempenfelt Bay. This art exhibition brings together four nationally recognized Canadian artists and two regionally based artists who will create unique installations that respond to sites around the city, drawing on local ecologies, history, and stories. These new works will complement the rich public art scene featured throughout the downtown core.

There are many wonderful shopping options and unique dining spots to discover in Barrie. You’ll encounter one-of-a-kind markets offering farm fresh options and other storefronts where you can buy souvenirs of Barrie to take home with you.

The Barrie Farmers’ Market is a year-round true Farmer’s Market offering local produce from Barrie and surrounding area. You will also find live music, kid’s activities and lots of fresh food and snack options, so come hungry!

Friday Harbour Resort is an upscale resort style experience. You can lounge on the beach, stroll along the boardwalk or even rent a boat. Enjoy live music and fancy dining this fall at the Lake Club Restaurant. To get there, take GO Train to Barrie South GO station, then use the Uber app to select the "Innisfil Transit" option to Friday Harbour.

Dunlop Street Diner is housed in a charming 150-year-old building that serves farm fresh dishes including brunch options like eggs benedict, and skillets and other classic recipes using locally sourced ingredients.

Common Good Café & Social House serves fresh coffee and farm to table delights, the perfect stop during a day long outing.

Donaleigh’s Irish Public House – Located near Barrie’s Five Points welcomes you with its cozy interior and authentic Irish hospitality.

The North Restaurant is a culinary gem nestled in downtown Barrie and is owned by award winning chef Marco Ormonde. You can indulge in signature dishes and nightly features and try the tasting menu designed to tantalize every palate.

Explore Downtown Barrie by taking a stroll along Dunlop Street to discover unique shops and incredible murals and indulge in locally made treats. You’ll love the vibrant atmosphere and friendly locals that make downtown Barrie a delight for visitors.

It’s been beautiful, Barrie!

Getting to Barrie on GO Transit is easy and relaxing so you can unleash your energy on exploring the city. From outdoor activities, arts & film, to terrific dining spots- Barrie has something fun for everyone! As you head home after a fun-filled day, unwind on GO Transit and take advantage of the free GO Wi-Fi Plus to chat with friends and family and tell them about your exciting adventure.