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Muskoka (Once discovered never forgotten)

Located just two hours north of Toronto, Muskoka has been a vacation area of choice in Ontario for well over 100 years. Vibrant natural beauty abounds, set within a mosaic of pristine lakes surrounded by rocky shorelines and majestic forests. Several thriving urban centers provide excellent shopping and entertainment services and a wide variety of employment possibilities. First class resorts, artisan’s shops and visitor attractions complement the heritage landscape and growing communities. With a significant seasonal population, Muskoka is able to offer many amenities normally associated with larger cities, while maintaining the attractive lifestyle of a small community.

The District Municipality of Muskoka was established by Provincial legislation and commenced operations on January 1, 1971. In design and function, the District closely parallels other Regional Municipalities in Ontario with the District Corporation forming the upper tier of a two-tier system of local government. The following six Area Municipalities comprise the lower tier in Muskoka.

Town of Bracebridge www.town.bracebridge.on.ca Town of Gravenhurst www.gravenhurst.ca/
Town of Huntsville www.town.huntsville.on.ca Township of Lake of Bays www.akeofbays.on.ca
Township Muskoka Lakes www.township.muskokalakes.on.ca Township of Georgian Bay www.township.georgianbay.on.ca

Gravenhurst (Gateway to Muskoka) Highlights

Urban Gravenhurst sits between 2 lakes Gull Lake to the East and Muskoka Lake to the west. A sensational new attraction lies at the heart of a picturesque resort town just waiting for you to discover. Gravenhurst’s historic waterfront has recently been re-born as the all new Muskoka Wharf, a $170 million, 89 acre celebration of the unique and colourful history of Ontario’s premier all-season vacation playground. The glory of the steam era on the Muskoka Lakes comes alive at Muskoka Wharf with a combination of heritage facilities, shops and restaurants, a Marriott Residence Inn , and of course the home port of the Muskoka Steamships. 121-year old RMS Segwun joined by the beautifully appointed Wenonah II and the classic steam yacht Wanda II. Take a short stroll on the Boardwalk from the steamship docks to the Muskoka Boat & Heritage Centre, a brand new interactive museum that celebrates Gravenhurst’s rich history in steam and boat building. See the beauty of classic wooden launches, restored and resting in slips at the museum docks waiting to race the waves again. The Boardwalk also offers scenic views, a nature trail, prime fishing spots, and a fabulous selection of shops and restaurants including Canada’s leading casual-dining chain, Boston Pizza. Muskoka Wharf is also Ontario’s newest premier event site, hosting the popular Gravenhurst Farmer’s Market on Wednesdays, the amazing Antique and Classic Boat Show in July and the fabulous Dockside Festival of the Arts in August.

Gravenhurst’s wealth of attractions and heritage continues in town. Bethune Memorial House is the Birthplace of Dr. Norman Bethune, medical pioneer and one of seven national heroes of the Chinese people. The Gravenhurst Opera House hosts live theatre and a performance just as it

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