Credit: Alexander Dummer Via: Pexels
When families plan adventures, it’s easy to imagine bustling, vibrant cities as the ultimate destination.
But one location that warrants exploring — and may slip under your radar — is the township of Parry Sound.
Located on the eastern shore of Georgian Bay, Parry Sound is a fantastic vacation destination for families with young children looking to explore the great outdoors and reconnect with nature — without being wholly thrust into the deep wilderness.
Here are just a few wonderful activities that Parry Sound and its surrounding areas offer.
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Multiple Provincial Parks
The Massasauga and Killbear Provincial Parks are all within a comfortable driving distance from Parry Sound (Killbear being the farthest, though it’s still less than a 30-minute ride).
In the cooler months, stores in town rent out winter mitts, hats, rain jackets, pants and snowshoes for adults and kids so that they can safely and comfortably explore, even when the ground is snowy or wet.
Opportunities to Explore from the Water Are Plentiful
Not only is Parry Sound within proximity to Georgian Bay — a deep body of pristine, crystal-clear waters with fascinating cliff shorelines — it’s also close to multiple inland lakes.
For those who love to canoe or kayak, visitors can rent out boats with lifejackets; shuttle services are available to landlocked lakes if reservations are made sufficiently in advance.
For those who prefer to relax, the town offers boat rides along the sound and through the 30,000 islands that are situated there.
This is a wonderful opportunity to explore the land from the water, learn about the area’s history, and watch for wildlife.
Accommodations Are Available for All Party Sizes
Regardless of the size of your group, whether children, grandparents or family friends are joining, it’s easy to secure Parry Sound cottage rentals from RentCottage.com.
Here, guests can select cottages based on party size, number of washrooms, proximity to beaches, and more; further, each cottage has a thorough inventory detailing what’s provided — making it incredibly easy to ensure everyone in the party feels comfortable and catered to.
Seasonal Activities Thrive
While most instinctively look to the summer months for their annual sojourn, Parry Sound can satiate travellers’ wants regardless of the season.
Quite often, travelling off-season will be more affordable and quieter — making it easier to snag reservations.
In the summer, there are copious beautiful beaches for swimming, playing on the sand and exploring.
In the provincial parks, there are many hiking and cycling trails; make sure to check out the Seguin Recreational Trail, which is part of a 75-km-long Park-to-Park Trail, which is ideal for hiking and biking.
Summer is also ideal for kayaking and canoeing opportunities.
In the winter, snowshoeing (and hiking) through the parks, skiing — kids’ ski lessons are available at Georgian Nordic Outdoor Activity Centre — and kicksled rentals are also an option; these are available from outdoor stores in town.
For days when you want a break from exploring the outdoors, Parry Sound has a thriving museum which often hosts kids’ workshops, a bookstore which boasts over 15,000 books in the kids’ section,
The Bobby Orr Hall of Fame Museum (which has plenty of interactive kids’ activities) and multiple dining opportunities (including pizzerias, country restaurants and fine dining).
Final Thoughts
Considering quintessentially quaint Canadian towns like Parry Sound for your next family vacation won’t disappoint; it’s readily accessible from major cities with an abundance of family-friendly activities. Keep it in mind when booking your family trip this year this is Why Parry Sound Is a Great Destination for Families with Kids.
