Hotels in Barrie

Barrie: Where Lakeside Serenity Meets Adventure Awaits

Nestled on the shores of stunning Kempenfelt Bay, Barrie, Ontario, is a charming blend of natural beauty and urban vibrancy. Known for its picturesque waterfront parks, this city offers year-round outdoor adventures, from skiing in winter to sailing in summer. Explore the lively downtown filled with boutique shops, art galleries, and delicious dining options. Nature lovers can hike the scenic trails of nearby Snow Valley, while the Barrie Farmers' Market showcases local flavors. With its welcoming atmosphere and rich cultural scene, Barrie is the perfect getaway for families, couples, and adventurers alike. For the best hotel rates in Barrie and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Barrie

Some of the best places to stay in Barrie are Orillia, Midland and Newmarket. Orillia, Midland, and Newmarket each offer unique attractions for travelers. Orillia is known for its vibrant arts scene and proximity to Lake Couchiching, making it great for first-time visitors. Midland boasts stunning waterfront views and rich Indigenous history, while Newmarket features charming boutiques and a lively downtown. Each area has various accommodations, from cozy motels to comfortable suites, ensuring travelers find the perfect stay. Consider exploring Barrie hotels for additional options nearby, including well-known chains like Comfort Inn and Sheraton. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our guests in Barrie:

1. OrilliaOpens in a new window: Orillia is a charming destination perfect for a romantic getaway, boasting stunning lakeside views and vibrant cultural experiences. Key attractions include Casino Rama for entertainment, Lake Couchiching for outdoor enjoyment, and the Orillia Opera House for cultural events. For accommodations, consider Stone Gate InnOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star hotel ideal for adventure seekers, offering proximity to skiing and hiking activities. Muskoka Bay ResortOpens in a new window is another great choice, featuring amenities like ice skating and a playground for families. Additionally, Inn at the FallsOpens in a new window provides beach access and excellent business facilities, making it suitable for both leisure and work travelers.
2. MidlandOpens in a new window: Midland is a delightful place for outdoor enthusiasts, with attractions like Little Lake Park and Discovery Harbour offering scenic beauty and recreational activities. The area is ideal for family-friendly adventures and relaxation. A wonderful option is Christie's Mill Inn & Spa, BW Premier CollectionOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star hotel that provides beach access and romantic packages, perfect for couples. For families, Rawley ResortOpens in a new window is a 4.0-star resort with a variety of adventure sports available onsite, while Sherwood InnOpens in a new window offers beach access and golfing opportunities along with pet-friendly amenities.
3. NewmarketOpens in a new window: Newmarket is a vibrant town ideal for family fun, featuring attractions such as Canada's Wonderland and several shopping centers. This area is perfect for those seeking entertainment and leisure activities. For a convenient stay, Best Western Voyageur Place HotelOpens in a new window is a 3.0-star hotel located in the shopping district, making it easy to explore the local area. Comfort Inn NewmarketOpens in a new window is a 2.5-star hotel that caters to families and business travelers alike, offering essential amenities and pet-friendly options. Another choice is Newmarket Hotel & SuitesOpens in a new window, a 2.5-star hotel also situated in the shopping district, providing easy access to local attractions.

Things to do in Barrie for first time

Three days in Barrie offers the perfect opportunity to enjoy outdoor adventures like boating and hiking, soak in stunning sunsets, and immerse yourself in local art scenes. Don't miss the excitement of sports events and the vibrant community atmosphere that makes this destination truly special. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Barrie:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at Lake Simcoe, known for its stunning views and recreational activities. Take some time to enjoy the serene waters, perfect for swimming or simply relaxing by the shore. Afterward, head to Sibbald Point Provincial Park, where you can explore nature trails and immerse yourself in the beautiful surroundings. Wrap up your day with a visit to the Georgina Arts Centre and Gallery, where you can appreciate local art and perhaps even pick up a unique souvenir to remember your trip.
• Day 2: Kick off your day at the Simcoe County Museum, where you can delve into the rich history of the region through engaging exhibits. Following your historical exploration, make your way to the Range Landing Golf Practice Facility, perfect for a few hours of practice or a friendly game. Conclude your day at Historic Fort Willow, where you can step back in time and learn about the area's military heritage through interactive displays and guided tours.
• Day 3: Start with a visit to the CFB Borden Military Museum, which offers an insightful look into Canada's military history and fascinating artifacts. Next, wander over to The Point Gallery, where you can enjoy a showcase of local talent and perhaps engage with some artists. Finish your day at Baby Bear Pond, a peaceful spot ideal for a tranquil walk or a picnic, allowing you to unwind amidst nature before concluding your memorable trip in Barrie.

5 tips to find a great Barrie hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Barrie is during April, November, and December when hotel rates are lower. If you’re traveling internationally, it’s wise to book your flight at least five months in advance to secure better prices. To get the most out of your visit, plan to stay for at least 2-3 days, which allows you to fully explore the city’s key attractions, including its beautiful lake and vibrant parks. This makes for a great value for money trip, especially for those on a budget seeking memorable experiences.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Barrie, consider checking out the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com. You could find discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches, and many options come with price guarantees and refundable choices. To maximize your savings, enable email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com for flash sales and exclusive last-minute promotions, so you’re more likely to snag a great deal on your stay in Barrie.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may fluctuate due to factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates could help you potentially save on hotel expenses in Barrie.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the city center and close to local attractions in Barrie is usually more expensive. If you opt for accommodations farther from the city center, you can take advantage of transportation options like a car or bus to explore the area, which can be more likely to be affordable.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your hotel in Barrie and join Hotels.com's free One Key rewards program, enabling members to earn and enjoy reward points for hotel reservations. Progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers and access perks such as room upgrades when available, exclusive discounts, and unique member offers. Join today.

What to eat in Barrie

Here are some top-rated dishes in Barrie, Ontario, Canada:

• Poutine: A quintessential Canadian dish originating from Quebec, poutine consists of crispy fries topped with cheese curds and smothered in rich gravy. In Barrie, you can find creative variations featuring locally sourced toppings, making it a must-try comfort food experience.
• Maple Syrup: A staple of Canadian cuisine, maple syrup is often enjoyed on pancakes, waffles, or even drizzled over bacon. In Barrie, visit local farms or markets to sample artisanal syrups, each with its unique flavor profile, reflecting the region's natural sweetness.
• Butter Tarts: These delightful pastries are filled with a gooey mixture of butter, sugar, and eggs, often enhanced with raisins or pecans. A classic dessert in Barrie, butter tarts are perfect for indulging while exploring the vibrant downtown area, where bakeries proudly showcase their versions of this beloved treat.

Best time to go to Barrie

Barrie experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 19.6°F (-6.9°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 68.2°F (20.1°C). June tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Barrie are March, April, and July, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny to mostly cloudy, accompanied by light rainfall. In contrast, October to December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light rainfall and mostly cloudy conditions.