Owen Sound Visitor Guide 2013 | GreyBruceEscape magazine

OWEN SOUND TOURISM
888-675-5555 l 519-371-9833
www.owensoundtourism.ca
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VISITOR’S GUIDE
ONTARIO, CANADA
The TALL SHIPS® are coming!
August 16-18, 2013
More Festivals & Events Inside!

OS2 VACATION OWEN SOUND | 2013 GUIDE BOOK
FREE Live Music Tent 10 am – 6 pm
The Bills – Jim Payne & Fergus O’Byrne - Té
& many more Summerfolk guest artists and local bands
Inner Harbour, Owen Sound
August 16 & 17
• Deck Tours (boarding pass required)
• Kids Activity Area
• Vendors
• Live Interactive Outdoor Theatre
• Parade of Sail - August 18
Purchase Boarding Passes at
Or call 1-888-655-9090
Advance Purchase Strongly Recommended
Details, full events list at
Or call Owen Sound Tourism at
1-888-675-5555.
Connect with us:
Family-friendly festivals and events all summer long,
many free or very affordably priced, including:
HARBOUR NIGHTS CONCERT SERIES
Free concerts by the water
Sundays 7 pm June 23 – August 11
featuring BECKON
Sunday July 28
The sailing ship logo, Tall Ships®, Tall Ships Are Coming!®, TALL SHIPS CHALLENGE®, Tall Ships America®,
Adventure and Education Under Sail® are registered trademarks and service marks owned by the American Sail Training Association.
www.tallshipsowensound.com
presents

888-675-5555 | owensoundtourism.ca OS3
CONTENTS
The Heart of Grey-Bruce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Life in the City:
Downtown Owen Sound . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Parks and Playgrounds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Boating and Fishing around the Sound ��9
Fun and Fitness in Owen Sound . . . . . . . . 10
Top Picks for Kids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Regional Arts Centre and
Cultural Capital of Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Waterfalls of Grey County . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Grey Bruce Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Hike the Famous Bruce Trail
& many others . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
2013 Festivals and Events . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Owen Sound Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Accommodation Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Fern Capital of Ontario . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Visitor Information Centre
Owen Sound operates a four-season, full-
service Visitor Information Centre on the
waterfront, housed in a historic railway
depot at 1155 1st Ave. West. Our friendly,
knowledgeable staff will help with all your
visitor needs, from maps and guides to
souvenirs and trip planning. Can’t make it
in person? Visit owensoundtourism.ca or
call 519-371-9833 or 888-675-5555.
THE HEART OF GREY-BRUCE
W
elcome to Owen Sound, the perfect home base from which to explore the
region.Affordable, accessible and inviting, the city is close to some of the area’s
best beaches, ski hills, cycling and hiking trails, rivers, waterfalls and farm-fresh
produce, plus the renowned cliff-tops and caves of the spectacular Bruce Peninsula.
Owen Sound offers all the amenities you need: Shopping, dining, arts, culture, recreation,
plus relaxed hospitality.
SHOPPING: Stroll through our revitalized downtown, exploring specialty shops and
boutiques. Owen Sound is also home to major brand-name retailers and an indoor mall.
DINING: More than 70 restaurants, cafes, bars and bakeries to tempt your taste buds,
plus a historic farmer’s market open all year.
ARTS: Enjoy the Roxy Theatre, Tom Thomson Art Gallery, Georgian Bay Symphony and
many galleries, festivals, concerts and events.
HERITAGE: Discover museums and galleries celebrating local heroes such as ace fighter
pilot Billy Bishop and maverick artistTomThomson,plus walking tours exploring the city’s
architecture and commemorating the black settlers that found refuge here following the
Underground Railroad. Owen Sound is home to the oldest emancipation festival in North
America, now celebrating 151 years.
RECREATION: Explore four local waterfalls and the Bruce Trail. Indulge in your favourite
outdoor passion, be it golf, canoeing, sailing, hiking, cycling, fishing or swimming. In the
winter, there’s snowshoeing, snowmobiling, skating and cross-country skiing.
SPORTS: Junior “A” OHL hockey (the Owen Sound Attack), a 10-day annual salmon
derby and softball, lacrosse, hockey and soccer tournaments complete the picture.
Owen Sound Tourism
Published by: Escape Productions,
Lorna Rouse
Cover photos:
Ship, Fair Jeanne
Downtown Shopping, Owen Sound Tourism
Harbourfront, Owen Sound Tourism
Lupercalia Winter Arts Festival, John
Fearnall, www.goodnoise.ca
Cover design: Shelley Jackson
Editorial: Paulette Peirol
Magazine design: ESV Design
Printed locally at: Transcontinental Printing /
RBW Graphics

LIFE IN THE CITY:
DOWNTOWN OWEN SOUND
A
historic port city with many urban
amenities, Owen Sound has retained
its small-town charm over the years.
The community offers shopping, dining,
recreational facilities, theatre, cinemas,
galleries, museums, a symphony, hospital,
college, library, transit system, marina, junior
“A” hockey, accommodations and major
government offices.
Its harbour was one of the busiest ports on
the Great Lakes.Today, Owen Sound is home
to the most advanced marine simulator and
research centre in North America -- The
Great Lakes International Marine Training
Centre at Georgian College.
We’re a green city, with 40 parks and 21
playgrounds, including our “jewel in the
crown,” Harrison Park, and trails along the
river and harbour, plus access to the Bruce
Trail.
Need on-line services? Computers are
available at our downtown library, and
wireless access can be found throughout the
downtown and at the Visitor Information
Centre.
GETTING AROUND:
Owen Sound is divided by the Sydenham
River and harbour, and all points are labelled
east or west in relation to that.
The avenues run parallel to the river --
north and south -- starting with the lowest
numbers in the river valley. The streets run
east and west, with the river and harbour
separating them.
Free city maps are available at the Visitor
Information Centre,as well as at most stores,
gas stations, public buildings and hotels,
and on-line at www.owensoundtourism.ca.
Don’t have a car? Taxis are plentiful, and
most rides within the city cost less than $7.
Owen Sound also operates a transit system
that runs Monday to Saturday. For route
information, call 519-376-3299, or enquire
at the visitor centre.
If you’re exploring the city on foot,
you’ll notice many interpretive plaques
along the way. There are more than 40 of
them, commemorating our cultural and
architectural heritage. Enquire about our
new Trails Map at the Visitor Centre or City
Hall.
Farmers Market, Owen Sound Tourism
Owen Sound Tourism
Downtown Shopping, Owen Sound Tourism

SHOPPING:
Downtown Owen Sound is distinguished by
heritage architecture, wide, leafy sidewalks
and unique shops and boutiques. The city
has several independent book sellers and
cafes, two bike shops and a board shop,
plus stores specializing in everything from
clothing, toys and kitchenware to home
décor and photo equipment.
Many retailers close on Sundays.
Heritage Place Shopping Centre east of
the downtown features more than 75 stores
and eateries, including large anchors such
as Sears, and is open Sundays.
Along 16th Street East you’ll also find
many well-known department stores that
can meet your travelling and visitor needs.
There are also numerous pharmacies and
supermarkets, some open late.
On the west side of town, up the 10th
Street hill, you will find more stores,
restaurants, a movie theatre, bowling alley
and an outdoor shopping mall, the Galaxy
Centre.
OWEN SOUND FARMER’S MARKET
Saturday mornings are humming at the
Owen Sound Farmer’s Market, one of the
oldest in Ontario. Come for fresh Georgian
Bay fish, fruits and vegetables, honey, maple
syrup, prepared meats, artisan breads and
pastries.Enjoy preserves of every description
and breakfast hot off the grill with locally
roasted coffee.Buskers often entertain while
patrons linger,finding everything from hand-
made woollens, soaps, candles and hand-
turned wooden pepper mills to greeting
cards, pottery and moccasins. Open year-
round, 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturdays
behind City Hall. Call 519-371-3433 or visit
www.owensoundfarmersmarket.ca
Pick up a copy of our free
restaurant guide, available
at the Visitor Information
Centre or online, at
EATING:
The city has something for almost every
appetite and budget, from intimate, fine
dining establishments to family restaurants
and cafes. Many source fresh ingredients
from farmers and producers in the Grey-
Bruce area.
Hottest Yard Sale Under The Sun,
Owen Sound Tourism
Owen Sound Tourism
The Artists’ Co-Op, James Masters

For Opening Times Please Check Our Website
western boot specialists
323418 East Linton Rd. (off Grey Rd. #1)
7 miles north of Owen Sound
• TUESDAY 7am-2pm, Year round - KEADY
• WEDNESDAY 3-6pm, May 22 to Oct. 9 - CLARKSBURG
• WEDNESDAY 8am-1pm, June 26th to Aug. 28 - PORT ELGIN
• FRIDAY 3-7pm, May 18 to October 11 - DUNDALK
• FRIDAY 3-7pm, June 7 to October 11 - MEAFORD
• FRIDAY 2-6pm, June 14 to October 4 - WALKERTON
• FRIDAY 10am-2pm, May 17 to October 11 - WIARTON
• FRIDAY 3-7pm, May 17 to Oct. 11 - WILLIAMSFORD
• SATURDAY 8am-1pm, May 18 to Oct. 12 - FLESHERTON
• SATURDAY 9am-12pm, May 18 to Oct. 12 - KINCARDINE
• SATURDAY 9am-12pm, May 18 to Oct. 12 - LION’S HEAD
• SATURDAY 7am-12:30pm, Year round - OWEN SOUND
• SATURDAY 9am-1pm, May 18 to Oct. 12 - PAISLEY
• SUNDAY 10am-1pm, May 19 to Sept. 29 - TOBERMORY
Celebrate local flavours at
Grey Bruce FARMERS’ MARKETS
www.foodlinkgreybruce.comwww.foodlinkgreybruce.com

PARKS AND PLAYGROUNDS
O
wen Sound has a vast amount of
green space, including waterfront
playgrounds, public gardens, leafy,
shaded cemeteries, numerous downtown
parks and our treasured Harrison Park,
featuring over 40 hectares of streams, trails,
gardens, forest and a large, fully accessible
playground. Here are some of our most
popular destinations:
KELSO BEACH PARK
At the mouth of the Pottawatomi River
on the western shore you’ll find Kelso
Beach Park, which has a sheltered picnic
area, playground, splash pad (courtesy
of the Scenic City Order of Good Cheer),
washrooms, paths, playing fields and an
amphitheatre.
The site was originally a settlement
of the Anishinaabe First Nations people,
whose territory extended from what is
now Collingwood to Goderich. The shores
of the bay have been filled over the years
to make the land more usable for shipping
and industrial purposes, and to create Kelso
Beach Park, named after Henry Kelso, a
former municipal employee. The park is
used for many city festivals and events,
including Canada Day celebrations, the
Summerfolk Music & Crafts Festival, the
Salmon Spectacular Fishing Derby and as of
this year, the Emancipation Festival.
SARAWAK FAMILY PARK
North of Kelso on County Road 1 you’ll
find Sarawak Family Park, across from the
Legacy Ridge Golf Club. It has a sheltered,
rocky beach, a playground, washrooms and
picnic areas.
HARRY LUMLEY BAYSHORE
COMMUNITY CENTRE
On the east side of the harbor you’ll find
the Bayshore Community Centre, home of
the Owen Sound Junior “A” Attack hockey
team in the winter and site of a boat launch,
sheltered pier, beautiful community gardens
and an accessible playground in summer. A
three-kilometre multi-use harbour walkway
stretches from the Bayshore to Kelso Beach
Park. This area is also the jumping off point
for the Tom Thomson Trail, which extends to
Meaford. Request a copy of our new trails
map at the Visitor Information Centre.
WATERFALLS
Owen Sound boasts four natural cascades
within a short drive of the downtown:
Weaver’s Creek Falls in Harrison Park; Inglis
Falls just south of the park; Jones Falls at the
top of the 10th Street West hill; and Indian
Falls, off County Road 1 near Balmy Beach,
north of the downtown. Pack a lunch, wear
comfortable footwear, and make a day
of it! These waterfalls are included in the
Grey County Waterfall Tour. Request a copy
from the Owen Sound Visitor’s Centre, or
download it from our web site at www.
owensoundtourism.ca
HARRISON PARK
If you’re looking for a romantic retreat,
family fun or simply a place to stretch your
legs and breathe in clean, invigorating
fresh air, head to Harrison Park, off 2nd Ave.
East, where you can enjoy a swim, feed the
swans, or float along the river in a rented
paddleboat or canoe.
Often called our “jewel in the crown,”
the park features dining and recreation
facilities, a full-service campground, boat
rentals, a bird sanctuary, swans, mini-putt,
basketball courts, pools, and an open-air ice
rink. Its trail system leads to Inglis Falls, and
connects with the Bruce Trail.
Depending on the time of year, you can
enjoy an ice cream cone or hot chocolate
at the Harrison Park Inn Restaurant, watch
trout and salmon swim upstream to spawn,
or visit the Black History Cairn, part of the
city’s Freedom Trail commemorating its
first black settlers. In winter, lace up your
skates at the open-air ice
rink, go tobogganing,
cross-country ski or
snowshoe and delight
in the annual Festival of
Northern Lights.
Pick up a free
Harrison Park guide
and map from the
Owen SoundVisitor
I n f o r m a t i o n
Centre.
Good Cheer Splash Pad, Owen Sound Tourism
Harrison Park, Lynn Reket

*dining *shopping *art *entertainment *events *services *and so much more*
*July: Hottest Yard Sale Under the Sun *August: Streets Alive! Buskerfest *
*November: Moonlight Magic * Downtown Christmas Open House*
Contact Info: info@downtownowensound.ca
519-376-9225
Experience Downtown Owen Sound All Year Round
• Highly scented hand poured candles
• Locally handmade cottage crafts
• Corporate gift baskets, fundraisers
and weddings

BOATING AND FISHING
AROUND THE SOUND
BOATING
Owen Sound’s bay and harbour are natural
ports of call for recreational boaters.The city
has public boat launches on each side of
the harbour and the west side launch has
a coffee shop, live bait and tackle and a
fish cleaning station. There is also a floating
dock for visiting craft on the east side of the
inner harbour, within walking distance to
downtown stores and restaurants. Canoes
and kayaks may be rented from outfitters
such as Suntrail Source for Adventure in
nearby Hepworth. (call 1-877-882-2958, or
visit www.suntrail.net).
The Georgian Shores Marina on the west
side of the harbour offers overnight, weekly
and longer term docking for up to 400 boats
plus a full range of marine supplies and
services. It has a licensed mechanic on site,
a fully stocked chandlery open daily, a gas
bar, wireless Internet, marine technicians
and more. Day trips by water can take you to
Leith Shores, White Cloud Island, Meaford,
or Wiarton. You can also head up the Bruce
Peninsula alongside the stately Niagara
Escarpment, recognized as a UNESCO World
Biosphere Reserve. Call 519-371-3999 or
visit www.georgianshoresmarina.com
ANGLING
Owen Sound is one of the hottest fishing
spots in Ontario with five rivers emptying
into Georgian Bay, making it a magnet for
both serious anglers and novices. Challenge
yourskillswithChinooksalmonandrainbow,
lake or brown trout.Access the bay from one
of Owen Sound’s four public boat launches,
including the six-lane ramp just north of the
Harry Lumley-Bayshore Community Centre.
You can eat what you catch here.
Don’t have a boat? Fishing off the Owen
Sound harbour wall is at its finest in late
summer and fall when the Chinook salmon
are running upstream. Catch these beauties
in the evening and throughout the night
until early morning. Rainbow trout are best
caught in the late fall and spring. Ice fishing
is also popular when the bay freezes over.
Watson’s Tackle near the Owen Sound
harbour (www.watsonstackle.com) can
meet your fishing needs. There is also a
Canadian Tire and a Wal-Mart store at the
east end of town.
SALMON SPECTACULAR
FISHING DERBY
The highlight of the fishing season in Grey-
Bruce is the 10-day Owen Sound Salmon
Spectacular at the end of August. The event
attracts about 5,000 anglers and their
families, who compete for thousands of
dollars worth of prizes in salmon and trout
categories. Enjoy the popular fish fries and
daily entertainment that go hand-in-hand
with this festival.
Call 519-376-7177or visit
www.sydenhamsportsmen.com
MILL DAM AND FISH LADDER
The first fish ladder in Ontario was built at
Owen Sound’s mill dam in 1959. It enables
spawning fish to migrate up the Sydenham
River in the spring and fall, leaping from
stair to stair. Witness Rainbow trout in
April and May and the spectacular Chinook
salmon from September to October. Further
upstream, where the river enters Harrison
Park and continues through conservation
lands, the fish can be seen laying eggs in the
cold, shallow waters.The mill dam is off 2nd
Avenue West. at 6th Street and has ample
parking.
Fish Ladder and Mill Dam, Owen Sound Tourism
Owen Sound Marina, Rodger Miller

FUN AND FITNESS IN OWEN SOUND
PLAY
Enjoy acres of mature parks, playgrounds
and green space in Owen Sound, plus
outdoor recreational facilities such as soccer
fields, basketball courts, tennis courts and
ball diamonds.There’s a skateboard park on
the harbour and a new one in the making
at Victoria Park near the city`s recreation
centre.
CYCLE
Owen Sound offers a range of options from
quiet trails to paved roads, and is part of
the Ontario Cycling Network. You’ll find
two bike shops here, Bikeface and Jolley’s
Alternative Wheels, to meet your cycling
needs and offer tips on local routes. Stop by
our bike-friendly tourism office to pick up
regional bike maps and our own trails guide.
SWIM
Pools, beaches and splash pads - the choice
is yours. There are indoor pools at the Julie
McArthur Regional Recreation Centre, Stone
Tree Golf & Fitness and the Day’s Inn &
Conference Centre. Two heated outdoor
pools, on a treed, shady hilltop, can be
found in Harrison Park. For pool hours at
the recreation centre and Harrison Park, visit
http://www.ymcaowensound.on.ca or
call (519) 371-9222. Kids too young to swim
- and their parents - will love the new splash
pad at Kelso Beach Park, a very busy place
on hot summer days.
Prefer the beach? Head to the Hibou
Conservation area on the east side of the
bay,where you’ll find a sandy beach,shallow
water, hiking trails, a playground and picnic
areas. On the west side, check out Sarawak
Family Park across from the Legacy Ridge
Golf Club. It has a small beach, playground,
sheltered picnic area and washrooms. If
you’re craving beach culture, head to Sauble
Beach, only 20 minutes from Owen Sound.
You’ll still be back in time for dinner.
HIKE
Trails are plentiful in Owen Sound
and lead to some of our greatest
natural attractions, including
stunning waterfalls, cliff-top
views, and rocky shorelines.
The Bruce Trail - the grand-
daddy of them all - is never
far, looping around the city and
connecting two area waterfalls, Jones and
Inglis. You can also hike from Inglis Falls up
to Weaver’s Creek Falls in Harrison Park, or
to the Centennial Look-out Tower. Be sure to
pick up a copy of our new Owen SoundTrails
Map while you are here, or download it from
www.owensoundtourism.ca.
GOLF
There are 34 golf courses in Grey Bruce
and Owen Sound has some of the best.
Cobble Beach Golf Links, on the shores of
Georgian Bay, has been ranked among
the top 22 courses in the country by Rolex
rating experts. It offers a resort, spa, fitness
trails, ice rink, tennis courts and a plunge
Harbourfront Trail, Lynn RecketBruce Trail, Fran Sanagan
Snowshoeing at Harrison Park, Lynn Reket

pool. Nearby is Legacy Ridge, another –
must play– course, and Stone Tree Golf &
Fitness, closer to the city.All three offer Stay
and Play–packages with two Owen Sound
hotels, the Best Western Inn on the Bay and
the Days Inn Hotel & Conference Centre.
Visit www.greybrucegolf.com.
WORK OUT
You don’t have to give up your regular
routine while visiting Owen Sound. Several
fitness centres offer day passes, including
the Owen Sound & Area Family Y, the
Women’s Health & Fitness Centre (offering
STOTT pilates), the Day’s Inn, StoneTree Golf
& Fitness, and Sportmakers. The Y`s facility
includes a fitness studio, running track, cycle
studio and conditioning centre. If asanas are
more your thing, the Trillium Healing Arts
Centre and Tone Yoga offer daily classes.
SKI
Enjoy kilometres of groomed cross-country
ski trails and snowshoeing in nearby
Hepworth at the Sawmill Ski Trail, or at
Cobble Beach Resort. Equipment may be
rented from Suntrail Source for Adventure
(www.suntrail.net). Winter waterfalls
make an exciting destination for those on
snowshoes - check out Weaver’s Creek,
Inglis Falls and Jones Falls near Owen Sound.
SKATE
The city has a seasonal outdoor rink in
Harrison Park and indoor rinks at the Julie
McArthur Regional Recreation Centre and
the Harry Lumley Bayshore Community
Centre, home of the Owen Sound Attack
OHL team. For times and prices, contact the
Visitor Information Centre.
SNOWMOBILE
Winter is big here, and many of our
accommodators and restaurants offer
special rates for snowmobilers. Trail passes
are readily available.
Harrison Park, Owen Sound Tourism
Cobble Beach Golf
Swans at Harrison Park, Paul Murphy

Find local food hotspots in the
picturesque villages of Paisley, Lion’s
Head, Mildmay, Eugenia, Flesherton,
and Clarksburg
Explore our rural culture on
the Horse and Buggy Trail, at fall
fairs, ‘ﬁsh fries’ and other local food
events across the region
Take in Ontario’s Apple Country
at dozens of orchards celebrating all
things apple. Experience great
restaurants, vineyards and year round
culinary adventures on the Apple Pie Trail
When it comes to local food
Grey Bruce has it all. Over 400
farms & local food artisans, 14 Farmers’
Markets, U-Picks, butchers and bakers
& wine and beer makers!
Discover our local delicacies and
put them on the top of your list to
enjoy the freshest, tastiest and highest
quality foods you’ll ﬁnd anywhere.
Don’t forget to bring your coolers!
Explore our culinary bounty by visiting foodlinkgreybruce.com
We make it easy to celebrate the seasons with local food all year round.

TOP PICKS FOR KIDS
– FAMILY FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES TO GET EVERYONE SMILING
K
ids are a special kind of tourist, as
every parent knows. Here are some
great ways to keep them happy while
visiting Owen Sound:
• Head to the Owen Sound Museums on Fridays for some crafts and exciting science! Funky
Fridays run from July 9-Aug. 23 at the Marine & Rail Museum and the Billy Bishop.
• Taste scrumptious home baking, touch a soft buffalo hide or hand-knit woolens, and
grab a bag or two of popcorn at the Owen Sound Farmer’s Market – open year-round
every Saturday morning.
• Throw some pillows and blankets into the car and head to the Owen Sound Drive-In
Theatre – one of the last of its kind in the province.
• Cool off at the splash pad at Kelso Beach Park or enjoy the shallow warm-water pool at
the recreation centre.
• Sled on the most awesome toboggan run around, at Harrison Park.
• Make art at the Tom Thomson Art Gallery on the third Sunday of each month.
• Hop on a paddle boat or canoe at Harrison Park.
• Swim, hike and make sand castles at the Hibou conservation area.
• Catch a free outdoor movie at Harrison Park on Friday nights during the summer.
• Become a pioneer at Moreston Heritage Village, at Grey Roots Museum & Archives.
• Tie up your skates at one of three ice rinks.
• Let loose at one of the city’s 21 playgrounds (two are fully accessible).
• Stroll the boardwalk at Weaver’s Creek Falls in Harrison Park.
• Cheer on Owen Sound’s Junior-A hockey team, the Attack, on home ice.
• Discover glacial potholes a short walk from Inglis Falls, on the Glacial Pothole Side Trail.
• Climb on a real caboose at the Marine & Rail Museum.
• Take the whole family bowling at Westside Bowl.
• Cycle quiet trails through Harrison Park and along the City’s inner harbour.
• Feed the swans and ducks at Harrison Park.
• Book a full day for Storybook Park, a themed playground for toddlers and preschoolers.
• Enjoy a horse and carriage ride during the annual Festival of Lights.
• Cast a fishing line on the shores of the Sydenham River, in the harbor or further upstream.
• Explore the arboretum (a sort of living tree museum) at the Grey-Sauble Conservation
headquarters.
• Catch crayfish, tadpoles, and minnows on the shallow banks of the Sydenham River in
Harrison Park. In the fall, watch Chinook salmon heading to their spawning grounds.
• Discover the Children’s Peace Labyrinth at Division Street United Church.
Good Cheer Splash Pad, Owen Sound Tourism
Grey Roots Museum, Petal Furness

519 371 0031
www.billybishop.org
519 371 3333
Open to all…
admission by donation
Discover history and heritage in Owen Sound
948 3rd Avenue West
www.marinerail.com The Owen Sound Museums
gratefully acknowledges
ongoing support from
1155 1st Avenue West

Tom Thomson Art Gallery, Mike Yuhasz
REGIONAL ARTS CENTRE AND
CULTURAL CAPITAL OF CANADA
O
wen Sound enjoys a lively arts scene
that includes a regional orchestra,
theatretroupe,artgalleries,museums
and more. Combine our performing and
visual arts with our cultural heritage and
you’ll get a sense of why we were named a
Cultural Capital of Canada in 2004.
Many of our cultural facilities offer
summer camps for kids. Stay connected with
us on Facebook,YouTube and Twitter.
TOM THOMSON ART GALLERY
The Tom Thomson Art Gallery is a national
cultural attraction with a top-notch
program of contemporary and historical
exhibitions, lectures, classes, films, concerts
and workshops. It possesses a nationally
significant collection of Tom Thomson’s
work (74 pieces including artifacts), over
90 pieces by the Group of Seven, 42 pieces
by world renowned photographer Edward
Burtynsky as well as work by Emily Carr,
John Hartman and a substantial collection
of work by female and First Nations artists.
The Tom Thomson Experience is an ongoing
exhibition of his work and features his local
roots.
The Gallery offers programming for the
whole family: free monthly “Make Art”
sessions, plus studio classes and summer
art camps for children. For movie buffs, the
“TOM” hosts the Reel Film Festival and
Gallery Night at the Movies.
The TOM’s annual Canadian Spirit project
partners with community groups locally and
regionally and includes the Tom Thomson
Arts Festival (Sept. 21-22), a contemporary
multi-arts festival on the beautiful shores of
Georgian Bay.
Call 519-376-1932 or visit
www.tomthomson.org
THE ROXY THEATRE
The Roxy Theatre is the premier regional
destination for live entertainment. The
400-seat former opera house, owned and
operated by Owen Sound Little Theatre
(OSLT), allows you to bring a bar beverage
to your seat while enjoying a show.
Murderous mobs announce the coming
of spring with OSLT’s The Donnellys, an
action-packed drama from April 11-20.
For family-friendly fun, try Motus O Dance
Theatre’s Circus Terrifico May 4th... On
Mother’s Day, it’s an affair fit for a queen
with Leisa Way & The Wayward Wind’s’ You
Give Me Fever - a tribute to music icon and
Hollywood glamour girl Peggy Lee. If you
love the nightlife, don’t miss The Lemon
Bucket Orkestra on May 24th. In June, OSLT
presents Oscar Wilde’s The Importance of
Being Earnest, a trivial comedy for serious
people.What has four hands, one piano and
impeccable musicianship? It’sThe Fung Chiu
Duo on June 23rd..
Join us for the Mudtown Music and Arts
Festival August 9th. In the fall, we’ll feature
our Hats Off Tribute Series and a new Thirsty
Thursday Rockabilly Saloon Series. Be part
of a rare, intimate show with Daniel Lanois
on October 5th. And don’t forget to sing a
stylish happy birthday to us Oct. 19th at The
Roxy’s 100th anniversary party, featuring
jazz legend John Alcorn with daughter
Coco Love Alcorn, The Silent Film Ensemble,
Edwardian costume, historic displays and
more. OSLT’s Les Miserables will tear at your
heart in November with12 unforgettable
performances of this musical masterpiece.
Call 1-888-446-7699 or visit
www.roxytheatre.ca
GEORGIAN BAY SYMPHONY
The symphony presents five main concerts
and various afternoon concerts each season
beginning in October. It also supports an
award-winning youth orchestra. Founded
in 1972, the GBS has grown to over 50
volunteer members with a core group of
professionals. For our opening concert
Oct.26 organist Ian Sadler will perform Saint
Saëns’ Symphony No.3 (Organ Symphony)
with the GBS. The concert will also feature
works by Handle, Willan and Kevin Lau. Join
us on Facebook
Visit www.georgianbaysymphony.ca
Fung Chiu, Roxy Theatre

Harbourfront Trail, Lynn Recket
GALLERIES & STUDIOS
Downtown art spaces aside from the TOM
include Gallery DeBoer and the 40-member
Artists’ Co-op, which displays a range
of mediums and styles, from pottery
and painting to jewellery, weaving and
glasswork. Ask for the regional Art Map at
the Visitor’s Centre.
OWEN SOUND ART CRAWL
Catch Owen Sound’s Art Crawl on Saturday
mornings near the Farmer’s Market from
spring to fall. You will find a collection of
arts and crafts ranging from photography to
metalwork and much more. Each Saturday
presents a different set of artists.
HISTORIC WALKING TOUR & PLAQUES
More than 45 outdoor interpretive plaques
paint a colourful picture of Owen Sound and
its people, culture and architecture. Learn
about our marine history, black heritage and
national heroes such as Dr. Norman Bethune
and Agnes Macphail. Find out how we were
crowned “The Gateway to the West” and
earned the moniker “The Corkscrew City”
-- only to become one of the last places in
Ontario to uphold prohibition.
OWEN SOUND MARINE
& RAIL MUSEUM
Travel back in time to Owen Sound’s
industrial past when the city was a thriving
port. Housed in a former Canadian National
Railway station on the waterfront, the
museum features artifacts, scale models,
archival photos and interactive stations.
Outside, view the Ancaster tug, made in
Owen Sound and familiar to those who recall
the $1 bill.Visitors can also board a restored
caboose sitting on the area’s only remaining
rail lines. This summer view Scottish Spirit,
Canadian Dreams, an exhibit focusing on
the rich industrial legacy of William Kennedy
and Sons Ltd. A second exhibit, The Last
Stop, provides a historic overview about the
end of rail service in the Owen Sound area.
www.marinerail.com
BILLY BISHOP HOME AND MUSEUM
Visit the boyhood home of Canada’s famous
flying ace and wartime hero, William Avery
“Billy” Bishop. Find out about his amazing
life and legacy as well as Canada’s military
and aviation history. Experience a slice of
Victorian life in this national historic site
featuring many of the furnishings and
possessions of the Bishop family, who lived
in this grand home over a century ago.
Outside, enjoy beautiful gardens inspired
by the Victorian era. In July and August,
Victorian teas take place on the grounds.
This summer see To Learn, To Serve, To
Advance, detailing the history of the air
cadet movement, and Local Heroes, an
exhibit about Owen Sound’s three Victoria
Cross winners
www.billybishop.org
GREY ROOTS MUSEUM & ARCHIVES
Grey Roots Museum & Archives invites
visitors to explore Grey County through
exhibits, events and programs. The large
facility features six galleries, a theatre,
indoor waterfall, tourism information
centre, picnic area, archives, and a seasonal
heritage village. Annual special events
include a maple syrup festival in March,
the Emancipation Festival speaker’s forum
and a Spoke and Bustle Steam Show in
August, and the Pratie Oaten Irish Festival
in September. Key exhibits this year include
“Gods, Myths and Mortals: Discover Ancient
Greece” (opening May 18) and “Saints and
Sinners: A Story of Alcohol in Grey County”
(opening September). Group rates and tours
available.
Call 1-877-473-9766 or visit
www.greyroots.com
BLACK HERITAGE
Owen Sound was the last stop on the
Underground Railroad, a route taken by
slaves fleeing the United States during
the 1800s. It is now home to the oldest
emancipation festival in North America,
currently celebrating its 151st year.View the
Black History Cairn in Harrison Park.
Visit www.blackhistory.owensound.ca
ABORIGINAL CULTURE
Various First Nations inhabited the
Owen Sound area prior to the arrival of
European settlers.The city is home to the
M’Wikwedong Native Cultural Resource
Centre, the Ningwakwe Learning Press,
and the Ontario Native Literacy Coalition.
Celebrate National Aboriginal Day at Grey
Roots Museum & Archives on June 21st.
Visit: www.ningwakwe.on.ca
www.mwikwedong.com
Emancipation Cairn Plaque, Owen Sound Tourism

DENNIS HERMAN
Broker of Record/Owner
519-372-7070
Grey Bruce Realty Inc., Brokerage
Locally Owned & Independently Operated
MEAFORD
519-538-1544
SAUBLE BEACH
519-422-1170
FERNDALE
519-793-3444
OWEN SOUND
519-371-1202
WIARTON
519-534-2370
LION'S HEAD
519-795-7400
TARA
519-934-2040
OLIPHANT
519-534-5453
TOBERMORY
519-596-2255
BRIAN WARDELL
Broker/Manager/Owner
519-374-0463
www.remax-greybruce-on.com

2013 FESTIVALS AND EVENTS
MS CHI-CHEEMAUN CRUISE: MAY 2
You know it’s spring in Owen Sound when
the MS Chi-Cheemaun leaves her winter
berth in the harbour for her summer home
in Tobermory. Passengers follow the eastern
coast of the Bruce Peninsula, then return to
Owen Sound by bus.
www.ontarioferries.com
ONE WORLD FESTIVAL MAY 24
Celebrate the rich cultural diversity in Grey
and Bruce with performing artists, school
children and cultural, faith and social-justice
groups. At Market Square in downtown
Owen Sound. Free.
www.greybruceoneworldfestival.org/
DOORS OPEN OWEN SOUND: JUNE 1-2
From a maternity hospital to a cemetery,
Doors Open Owen Sound gives you a
wide-ranging look into the heritage of
our community. Many sites feature special
events such as art exhibitions, music,
and guided tours. This year, there will be
costumed interpreters at some sites. Free.
www.owensound.ca/heritage/doorsopen.php
HARBOUR NIGHTS CONCERTS:
SUNDAYS, JUNE 23 – AUG. 11
Liven up your Sundays with this free
concert series behind the Visitor Centre on
the harbor. Bring your own lawn chair or
blanket. Donations encouraged.
www.harbournights.ca
CANADA DAY CELEBRATIONS: JULY 1
Celebrate Canada’s birthday at Kelso Beach,
on Owen Sound’s west harbour. Enjoy
an action-packed day of family activities
capped by spectacular fireworks. Free.
www.owensound.ca/canadaday
HOTTEST YARD SALE UNDER THE SUN:
JULY 6
Main Street comes alive with entertainment,
food and “yard sale” deals from local
merchants. Free.
www.owensounddia.com
OWEN SOUND EMANCIPATION
FESTIVAL & PICNIC: AUG. 2-3
Join in the longest continuously running
emancipation festival in NorthAmerica,with
a speakers’ forum at Grey Roots and a picnic
at Harrison Park with live entertainment.The
festival commemorates the struggles and
triumphs of the black settlers who escaped
slavery to find a new home in Owen Sound
through the Underground Railroad.
www.emancipation.ca
DOG SHOW & OBEDIENCE TRIALS:
AUG. 6-8
The Grey Bruce Kennel Club hosts this popular
annual show at Harrison Park each year.
www.greybrucekennelclub.com or call
519-538-1525
BUSKERFEST! AUG. 9-10
Enjoy a wide variety of grassroots
performers and seasoned veterans in the
age-old tradition of busking. Watch the
streets come alive with music, magic and
merriment in downtown Owen Sound. Free.
www.buskerextravaganza.com
MUDTOWN MUSIC & ARTS FESTIVAL:
AUG. 9
This festival takes place in downtown
Owen Sound and features music, films
and readings, outdoor concerts, an art and
culture walk and a night market.
www.mudtownrecords.com
SUMMERFOLK MUSIC & CRAFTS
FESTIVAL: AUG. 16-18
Summerfolk features music from around the
world – more than 50 performances and
workshops on seven stages on the beautiful
shores of Georgian Bay. The festival includes
an interactive children’s area with crafts,
a playground, splash pad and a children’s
parade; an Artisan Village full of one-of-a-
kind hand-crafted works; dance sessions; a
wine bar, beer garden and a wide variety
of healthy food choices. Join the ‘Folk on
the Water’ in the 38th annual Summerfolk
Festival.
www.summerfolk.org
Summerfolk Music and Crafts Festival, Owen Sound Tourism
Bobby Dean Blackburn at Emancipation
Festival, Owen Sound Tourism

OWEN SOUND SALMON
SPECTACULAR: AUG. 23-SEPT.1
Thousands of anglers and their families
flock to Owen Sound in hopes of catching
the big one at this event, but you don’t
have to be an angler to enjoy the free daily
festivities and entertainment. The 10-day
derby features a kids’ day, seniors’ day,
ladies afternoon, onstage performers, two
evening fish fries and more.
www.sydenhamsportsmen.com/derby
OWEN SOUND FALL FAIR: SEPT. 5-7
Get a feel for Owen Sound’s traditional
country roots at its fall fair, one of the oldest
in Ontario. Midway on site.
www.owensoundfallfair.com or call
(519) 371-1720.
OWEN SOUND RIBFEST: SEPT. 13-15
Five professional “ribbers” on the North
American circuit will compete at Kelso
Beach for the best ribs, best chicken,
best sauce and the coveted “People’s
Choice” award. Free gate admission,
live music and kids’ activities. Food and
beverages extra. Cash only, ATM on site.
www.owensoundribfest.com
SWEETWATER MUSIC FESTIVAL:
SEPT. 20-22
Jazz and chamber music are featured in
Owen Sound and at the historic church in
nearby Leith.
www.sweetwatermusicfestival.ca
CANADIAN SPIRIT:THETOMTHOMSON
ARTS FESTIVAL: SEPT. 20-22
A celebration of fine art,music,performance,
film and the literary and culinary arts on
the beautiful shores of Georgian Bay, this
year’s festival will feature programming
that involves our vibrant First Nations
communities as well as some of Canada’s
most exciting contemporary artists. Travel
and accommodation packages are available.
www.canadianspirit.org
FESTIVAL OF NORTHERN LIGHTS:
NOV. 15, 2013 – JAN. 4, 2014
Lights sparkle along the banks of the
Sydenham River in downtown Owen Sound
and at Harrison Park during this popular
festival -- one of the Top 100 Festivals in
Ontario.
www.FestivalLights.ca
Floatilla in Harrison Park, Owen Sound Tourism
TALL SHIPS: AUG. 16-18
Owen Sound is proud to host several tall ships
in our harbour Aug. 16-18:
• Pride of Baltimore II,a 47-metre reproduction
of an 1812-era topsail schooner
• Playfair, a 22-metre Brigantine from Toronto
used for youth sailing trailing
• Fair Jeanne, a 33-metre Brigantine that sails
out of Brockville.
Purchase a boarding pass for access to deck
tours on all visiting ships and to see War of
1812 Bicentennial displays plus live theatre and
entertainment. Boarding pass holders are also
eligible for discounts on Summerfolk tickets the
same weekend and other special offers.
www.tallshipsowensound.com
COBBLE BEACH CONCOURS
D’ELEGANCE: SEPT. 13-15
Cobble Beach Resort’s first Concours d’Elegance
(competition of elegance) promises some of the
rarest and most refined classic cars of our time,
all originals in mint condition. Automobiles
will be judged not on their speed but their
excellence, historical accuracy, technical merit
and style. View a 1911 Cadillac with wooden
spokes, a 1920 Pierce Touring Arrow, plus
Studebakers, Jaguars and Mazerattis from the
1950s and ‘60s, and much, much more.
www.cobblebeachconcours.com
NEW EVENTS

For more Owen Sound events, visit
or call 1-888-675-5555
The official beverage sponsor of the City of Owen Sound
major events
April 20-21 Home Cottage Expo
April 24 Port Video Project Premier
April 27 Dinner Cruise on the MS Chi-Cheemaun
May 2 Chi-Cheemaun Spring Cruise
May 4 Circus Terrifico
May 12 You Give Me Fever
May 24 One World Festival
June 1-2 Doors Open Owen Sound
June 2 Veteran’s Appreciation Day
June 8 Big Boys Tools Toys Show
June 6-15 The Importance of Being Ernest
June 14-16 Grey Bruce Pride
June 22 Ignite! Youth Arts Festival
June 23 Georgian Bay Garden Club Tour
June 23 Fung Chiu Duo, Roxy Theatre
June 23 – Aug. 11 Harbour Nights Concert Series (Sundays)
July 1 Canada Day Celebrations at Kelso Beach
July 5-26 Outdoor Music Movies Series (Fridays)
July 6 Hottest Yard Sale Under the Sun
July 12 Good Cheer Party by the Bay
July 13 Harrison Park Flotilla
August 2-3 151st Emancipation Festival Picnic
August 6-8 Dog Show Obedience Trials
August 9-10 Streets Alive Buskerfest
August 9 Mudtown Music Arts Festival
August 10 Spoke Bustle Steam Show
August 16-17 Tall Ships Owen Sound
August 16-18 Summerfolk Music Crafts Festival
Aug. 23 – Sept. 1 Salmon Spectacular Fishing Derby
Aug. 25 Bayshore Race
Sept. 5-7 Owen Sound Fall Fair
Sept. 13-15 Cobble Beach Concours d’Elegance
Sept 13-15 Owen Sound Ribfest
Sept 20-22 Canadian Spirit – The Tom Thomson Arts Festival
Sept. 29 Pratie Oaten Irish Festival
Oct. 19 Roxy Theatre’s 100th Anniversary
Nov. 15 – Jan. 4 Festival of Northern Lights
Dec. 7 Festival in the Park
Dec. 14 Moreston by Candlelight
Connect with us:
Rib Fest at Kelso Beach
Owen Sound Fall FairTom Thomson
Arts Festival

Jacuzzi, Non-Smoking Efficiency Rooms
Free Cont. Breakfast, Local Calls Wireless High Speed
Fridges, Micro-Waves, Coffee Makers Meeting Facilities
Newly
Renovated
• Children 18 Under Stay Free
• 32” Flat Screen T.V.’s
• FREE Wireless Highspeed
• FREE Continental Breakfast
• 32” LCD TV • Supreme Comfort Beds
• 18” Pillow Top Mattress with Lots of Extra Pillows
• Fridge, Microwave and Coffee Maker
• Wireless Internet
404 9th St. E., Owen Sound, ON N4K 1P3
519-416-5326 • www.macleanestate.ca
950 6th Street East • Owen Sound, Ontario
For reservations, please call:
Days Inn Conference Centre
1.877.775.2614 or 519.376.1551
CAA/AAA Rates Available
Experience Georgian Bay Hospitality at it’s Finest
Proud to be the only hotel
in Owen Sound with an indoor
Saltwater pool and whirlpool
Fitness Centre Saunas
On-site Restaurant Lounge
Free High-Speed
Wireless Internet
In-Room Fridge Microwave
Complimentary Parking
Conveniently located to
Downtown and area
attractions

www.festivallights.ca
info@festivallights.ca
855-868-7899
Festival of
Northern Lights
Friday November 15th to January 4th
Imagine Yourself Here…
surrounded by the magic of over
70,000 sparkling lights that
illuminate the night skies over
Owen Sound.
Fun Festival Facts:
• 7-week long Festival
• 7 days a week
• 5:00 to 11:00pm
• Horse Carriage Rides
• Free skating at Harrison Park
• Live Theatre at the Roxy
• Attack Hockey Games
Enjoy 25 kilometers of lights
from the harbour through
downtown continuing into
Harrison Park – join visitors
from far and wide who come
every year to celebrate the
holiday season in the heart of
Grey and Bruce Counties…
You will love it!
Opening Ceremonies
Friday, November 15th, 5:30pm
Kitchener
Roxy
Theatre
Hwy 6/10

Owen Sound Visitor Guide 2013 | GreyBruceEscape magazine

Owen Sound Visitor Guide 2013 | GreyBruceEscape magazine

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Owen Sound Visitor Guide 2013 | GreyBruceEscape magazine