During my recent trip to Barrie, Ontario, I decided to embrace the freedom of a road trip. With a car at my disposal, I had the flexibility to explore the city at my own pace, venturing into areas I might have missed if I was relying on public transport. Barrie is a lovely, compact city, with lakeside views, a vibrant downtown, and plenty of nature to immerse yourself in. Here are some practical tips I picked up along the way—whether you’re a first-time visitor or looking to explore more in-depth, a road trip can be an exciting and efficient way to see it all.
1. Renting a Car in Barrie
When you land in Barrie, renting a car is straightforward. The city is well-connected, but public transport isn’t as frequent or comprehensive as in larger urban centers like Toronto. If you’re arriving by bus or train, you’ll find several car rental agencies at the local train station or within a short distance from the downtown core. It’s always a good idea to book in advance during the summer months when tourism peaks.
For those unfamiliar with driving in Canada, remember that the driving age is 16 with a full license, and you’ll be driving on the right-hand side of the road. The roads are generally well-maintained, and the local drivers are friendly and courteous. I also noticed that there are many scenic routes around Barrie, so I made sure to plan for stops along the way.
2. Navigating Around Barrie: Traffic and Parking
Barrie is a city with a small-town feel, but it still has a fair amount of traffic—particularly around rush hours. The main roads, like Bayfield Street, can get congested during peak times, but nothing too extreme. The good news is, Barrie is well-organized, and most of the attractions are easily reachable. Navigating through downtown is relatively simple, and I quickly became accustomed to the layout.
Parking in Barrie was easier than I expected. Most attractions have ample parking spaces, and the downtown area has street parking with meters. The rates are quite reasonable, but I’d suggest carrying some coins, as not all parking machines accept cards. There are also a number of free parking lots if you head a little further from the main shopping districts.
3. Best Routes to Take for Scenic Views
One of the best parts of a road trip in Barrie is the drive around Kempenfelt Bay. The lakefront area offers beautiful views, particularly as you drive along the lakeshore to Centennial Beach. The route takes you right beside the water, with serene views that stretch out to the horizon. Early mornings or late afternoons are the best times for this, as the light makes the water shimmer, and the quieter atmosphere adds to the peaceful experience.
Another route worth taking is the one up to the Simcoe County Forest, where the roads wind through green landscapes. The rolling hills and forests around Barrie are picturesque year-round, but particularly during the fall, when the trees put on a beautiful show of reds and oranges.
4. Exploring Barrie’s Lakeside
Barrie is known for its lakeside charm, so spending time around Kempenfelt Bay is essential. Whether you’re strolling along the waterfront trail or taking a dip in the cool, clear waters, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the area. A great tip for self-drivers is to park your car at one of the lakeside parks and explore on foot or by bike. The waterfront trail offers plenty of spots for taking a break, enjoying a picnic, or snapping a few photos.
I spent a few hours at Centennial Beach one afternoon, which is just one of the prime spots for lounging and enjoying the view. From there, it’s a short walk or drive to the downtown core, where you can explore local cafes and shops. Barrie’s lakeside is a great spot for both relaxation and outdoor activities.
5. Downtown Barrie: Shopping and Dining
I recommend spending some time wandering through Barrie’s downtown. Although it’s compact, the area is brimming with charming shops, cafes, and restaurants. As a self-driver, having a car allowed me to easily hop between the different parts of the city without worrying about time constraints.
The main street, Dunlop Street, is lined with boutiques and art galleries, perfect for a casual stroll. I particularly enjoyed visiting the local craft shops and galleries showcasing Barrie’s rich artistic culture. If you’re a fan of art, be sure to check out the MacLaren Art Centre, which hosts exhibits from local and national artists.
For food, Barrie has a diverse range of dining options. One of my favorite places was The Farmhouse Restaurant, where I enjoyed fresh, locally sourced dishes. The restaurant has a cozy, rustic vibe, which makes for a relaxed dining experience. If you’re in the mood for seafood, Georgian Grill offers excellent lake views, delicious fish dishes, and an intimate atmosphere. For those on the go, there are also several great food trucks and casual spots perfect for a quick bite.
6. Day Trips from Barrie: Discovering the Surrounding Area
Having a car gives you the flexibility to explore more than just Barrie itself. There are several fantastic day trips from the city that are easy to drive to and offer their own unique attractions.
One such trip is a drive to the nearby Snow Valley Resort, just a 20-minute drive away. Whether you’re visiting in the winter for skiing or in the warmer months for hiking and mountain biking, Snow Valley is a great destination. I took a quick detour to explore the resort’s hiking trails, which provided stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Another excellent day trip is to the town of Orillia, located about 30 minutes to the north. Known for its beautiful waterfront and cultural history, Orillia is home to the Stephen Leacock Museum and plenty of parks along the shore of Lake Couchiching. The scenic drive along Highway 11 offers panoramic views of the countryside and is a lovely way to spend a few hours.
For nature lovers, the nearby Awenda Provincial Park is another great option. I spent a day there, enjoying its quiet hiking trails and picnic areas. The park is known for its diverse wildlife, including birds and deer, and the pristine forests offer a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
7. Safety and Weather Tips for Your Road Trip
When driving in Barrie, it’s important to keep an eye on the weather. Ontario’s climate can be unpredictable, particularly in the winter. Snow and ice can make driving a bit more challenging, especially in the colder months. If you’re visiting during winter, make sure your rental car is equipped with winter tires and that you’re prepared for icy conditions. Winter driving conditions can be tricky in the area, but the roads are usually well-maintained.
During the warmer months, I found the weather to be mild and pleasant. Summers in Barrie can get warm, so make sure your car is stocked with water and sunscreen for those sunny days. Always check the weather forecast before setting out on a longer drive, as rain and storms can appear suddenly.
8. Where to Stay in Barrie
Having a car means you can stay a little further from the city center and still enjoy all that Barrie has to offer. I stayed at a charming boutique hotel near the waterfront, which provided easy access to both the lake and downtown. If you’re traveling on a budget, there are also plenty of affordable motels and Airbnb options available within a short drive of the city.
If you prefer to stay closer to nature, there are campsites around Barrie as well. Several parks offer campgrounds where you can spend the night under the stars. I found this to be an excellent option for those who want to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area and have easy access to both the lake and forested trails.
9. Road Trip Essentials: What to Pack
When heading out on a road trip in Barrie, there are a few essentials to keep in mind. First, make sure your rental car is equipped with a GPS or have a reliable map app ready on your phone. While Barrie is a small city, it’s easy to get turned around if you’re not familiar with the area. A power bank for your phone, water, snacks, and a camera are always good to have on hand.
I also recommend packing some layers of clothing, as the weather can vary throughout the day, especially near the lake. Comfortable shoes are a must if you plan on walking or exploring any trails. And don’t forget sunscreen, even on cloudy days, as the sun can be strong by the lake.
10. Enjoy the Freedom of the Road
One of the best things about a road trip in Barrie is the sense of freedom it offers. You can take detours to explore hidden gems, pull over whenever something catches your eye, and truly take in the beauty of the area. Whether you’re visiting Barrie for a few days or a longer stay, having a car means you can enjoy the city at your own pace, discovering all the wonderful sights this charming Ontario city has to offer.
