The first train pulled into Allandale in October 1853 and sparked the founding of the Grand Trunk Rail yards and passenger station that welcomed travellers looking to escape the heat in the big city of York. The community that grew up there is Allandale, a name honouring Toronto politician and railway advocate William Allan.

Few things give you the flavour of a community – and unforgettable tastes – than the hidden eateries and unpretentious but long-standing restaurants that locals enjoy. Barrie’s downtown features an incredible choice of restaurants, locally owned and incredibly creative and tasty.

The kids have almost finished their first week of school and a little fun is in order. So pack your socks and get moving! Check out these 8 awesome indoor playgrounds that are perfect for all ages:

Sometimes we just need to get away and unplug for a little. Leave work behind for a couple days and explore the beauty of nature. Here’s our guide for the perfect Outdoor Adventure getaway for you and your friends.

Barrie has a lot of patios that serve up incredible drinks, along with some amazing eats. And why should your pet miss out? Your faithful friend need not stay home if you’re planning a patio pleasure. Nor do you have to pass up a cool one if you’re out for a walk. Here are some of Barrie’s popular pet-friendly patios!

Barrie’s waterfront is the place to be if you’re looking to beat the heat and relax for a couple of days with the kids. Make memories before summer break is over! Here’s our guide for the perfect mini getaway for families this summer.

We are headed up to Burl’s Creek for another year of the Boots and Hearts music festival! Last year we had an absolute blast all weekend long and extended our trip an extra week in the city of Barrie!

Downtown Barrie is steps away from Kempenfelt Bay and home to patios – some on the sidewalk and even one on a roof top. The real street-level adventure can be found as you explore the boutiques and specialty shops that offer everything from clothing and accessories to home décor to gourmet products such as infused olive oil and specialty chocolates.

Wanting to escape the pressures of your day? A journey back in time might just be the cure – and Barrie has a few options to help you leave today’s worries behind. No, there’s no DeLorean DMC-12 time machine or standing stones to walk though, Barrie has a few spots that can help you explore the adventures of times past.

Imagine Alabama and Travis Tritt one weekend, followed with Nickel Back and Cheap Trick the next. You can make it happen if you make Barrie your base for a music-filled holiday this summer.

Spanning an area of more than 6,000 hectares, the Minesing Wetlands is recognized internationally significant wetland not just because of its size, but because it’s home to a diverse area of rare and endangered flora and fauna.

Don’t hibernate this winter! Get out and enjoy all the amazing and fun adventures Barrie and the surrounding area has to offer.

Whether you’re into buying and eating local or looking for a tasty breakfast on a summer Saturday morning, the Barrie Farmers Market serves up a lot of tasty choices from 8 a.m. to noon.

The outdoor fun is endless at Winterfest. Get Out & Play in the snow at Heritage Park and Meridian Place and take part in a variety of exciting activities. With horse-drawn wagon rides, ice sculptures, dog cart rides, mini tube slide, lumberjack shows and so much more.

Barrie has country all week long! Visit Barrie & Area before attending Boots & Hearts 2018. With plenty to do, places to stay, food to eat, and fun to be had, this is the perfect time to take your summer vacation (and of course end it with a blast at Boots & Hearts).

Tourism Barrie's Adventure Team's experience of Stand-Up Paddling Boarding on Kempenfelt Bay, Lake Simcoe with Happypaddling.com.

Head to Barrie this Valentine’s Day if you’re looking for a fun adventure to have with your significant other. Barrie has plenty of accommodation options to suit every want and need so put your comfort in our hands to make sure you enjoy your special weekend.

If you’re looking for the perfect place to fit in your last minute ski-cation, look no further than Barrie, Ontario!

Not a skier or a snowboarder? If you don’t love to ski but are looking for a winter adventure, Barrie & Area is a great destination for the non-skier to get their rush of excitement! We’ve prepared a list of 10 alternative winter travel activities (that don’t require any experience or your own equipment) for you to try this season.

Don’t hibernate this winter! Get out and enjoy all the amazing and fun adventures Barrie and the surrounding area has to offer...

Barrie’s most loved winter event and one of Ontario’s Top 100, Winterfest is almost here to offer fun for every family. Join the City of Barrie downtown at Heritage Park and Meridian Place on Saturday February 2nd from 10am to 5pm and Sunday February 3rd from 10am to 4pm to take part in all of the fun family activities. Here’s a sneak peek of just a few of the adventures you can enjoy this Winterfest!