Welcome to Parry Sound
Discover a charming lakeside lifestyle with culture and natural beauty at every turn
Set along the sparkling shores, Parry Sound offers a unique mix of rustic charm and urban convenience, making it one of Ontario's hidden gems. Known as the “Gateway to the Thirty Thousand Islands,” Parry Sound’s spectacular waterfront setting is surrounded by majestic granite cliffs and pine forests, offering residents and visitors a perfect backdrop for adventure and relaxation. Its location makes it a prime destination for those seeking a lifestyle that harmoniously blends outdoor activities with the comforts of a welcoming community.
Parry Sound combines a relaxed lake life with all the modern amenities one might expect, from boutique shopping to diverse dining experiences. Whether you’re exploring the local shops or setting out on the waters of Georgian Bay or its numerous inland lakes, Parry Sound offers an exceptional quality of life that suits those seeking solitude and those looking to engage in a bustling community. With easy access to Muskoka’s celebrated beauty and an array of provincial parks, Parry Sound captures the best of Ontario’s cottage country.
Exploring the lakes within the region offers a relentless sense of adventure and the wonders of nature. While the "Big Three" lakes — Lake Muskoka, Lake Joseph, and Lake Rosseau — are synonymous with the District of Muskoka, the northern reaches tell a slightly different story. Although the northern tips of Lake Joseph and Rosseau lie within the District of Parry Sound, beyond these larger lakes, the area is a treasure trove of numerous smaller lakes and waterways, each surrounded by lush landscapes and abundant wildlife to offer unique settings for fishing, boating, and swimming. The natural wonders of these waters, combined with the scenic landscapes that change gloriously with the seasons, make the region a highly coveted destination for those who appreciate the great outdoors.
What to Love
- Outdoor Lovers Paradise: Unmatched access to various lakes and trails.
- Urban and Rustic: Quaint shops and unique dining experiences combine amenties with nature.
- Lively Cultural Scene: Brimming with events, festivals, and farmer’s markets year-round.
- Beautiful Waterfront Views: Unrivaled views both within the urban centre and natural surroundings of the various lakes.
- Welcoming Community: Walkable streets and always a friendly smile.
Local Lifestyle
In Parry Sound, the lifestyle revolves around an appreciation for the natural surroundings and a rich community experience. Life moves at an enjoyable pace, where outdoor activities like boating, hiking, and fishing are not just hobbies but a way of life. From the many small gatherings at local cafes to the larger annual events, Parry Sound residents enjoy both the comforts of a small-town feel and the vibrancy of a close-knit community. Here, the daily routine is about embracing the outdoors, gathering with friends and family, and immersing oneself in the area's cultural offerings.
Dining & Shopping
Parry Sound has an impressive array of dining and shopping destinations catering to locals and visitors with discerning tastes.
- Trestle Brewing Company: An excellent craft beer experience, Trestle Brewing Company offers a range of handcrafted beers with a relaxed waterfront view. Known for its picturesque setting, this brewery pairs its creations with delicious gastropub bites, offering a cozy spot to unwind and enjoy the scenic beauty of Parry Sound.
- The Kart: For a local twist on comfort food, The Kart is a popular spot where you’ll find some of Parry Sound’s best-loved dishes, including their famous French fries, indulgent poutine, juicy sirloin burgers, and flavorful sausages. Known for its quality ingredients and authentic flavors, this food truck is a must-visit for anyone looking to savor the culinary charm of Parry Sound.
- Northern Swine & Steer: If you're in the mood for gourmet groceries, Northern Swine & Steer on Seguin Street is the place to go. This specialty store is beloved for its high-quality meats and unique grocery offerings, providing everything you need for a home-cooked meal or barbecue by the lake.
- Town Trading Post Ltd.: Meanwhile, on James Street, the Town Trading Post Ltd. offers an array of unique gifts, home decor, and regional products that showcase the essence of Parry Sound, making it an ideal spot to pick up one-of-a-kind treasures or memorable souvenirs.
Entertainment & Things to Do
Parry Sound provides a wealth of activities for all interests, whether you’re passionate about the arts, nature, or local events.
- The Charles W. Stockey Centre for the Performing Arts: A cultural hub in the community, The Stockey Centre hosts various performances throughout the year, including the annual Festival of the Sound. This celebrated music festival draws visitors from far and wide to enjoy classical and jazz performances in a stunning lakeside setting, creating the perfect fusion of world-class music and scenic beauty.
- Bobby Orr Hall of Fame: The Charles W. Stockey Centre also houses the Bobby Orr Hall of Fame where sports enthusiasts can explore exhibits dedicated to the legendary hockey player.
- Market Square: During the warmer months, Market Square comes alive with vendors from June to early September. This vibrant market showcases local artisans and craftspeople who bring everything from fresh produce and baked goods to jewelry, art, and clothing, making it a delightful spot for a Saturday morning stroll and shopping for local specialties.
Parks & Recreation
For those who enjoy the outdoors, Parry Sound boasts numerous trails ideal for hiking and biking.
- A Multitude of Hiking and Biking Trails: Popular paths such as the Georgian Bay Trail and the Hiawatha Highlands offer beautiful views and opportunities to connect with nature.
- The Seguin Recreational Trail: The Seguin Recreational Trail is perfect for snowmobiling in winter and ATVing in the warmer months, offering year-round outdoor adventures.
- The Massasauga Provincial Park: Offering expansive hiking trails.
- Oastler Lake Provincial Park: Provides further options for adventure, with scenic trails that weave through lush landscapes and showcase the area’s wilderness.
Popular Lakes
Parry Sound is home to several picturesque lakes, each offering unique experiences and pristine views, perfect for those seeking a waterfront lifestyle. While, central and southern sections of Lake Joseph and Lake Rosseau remain within Muskoka’s boundaries, the entire north end of Lake Joseph lies in Seguin Township within the District of Parry Sound, as does part of Lake Rosseau, stretching north beyond the scenic Rosseau Falls.
If you’re looking for a wonderful alternative to the well-known trio, check out the chain of Whitefish Lake, Little Whitefish Lake, and Clear Lake. This group of lakes offers endless opportunities for boating and watersports. Whitefish Lake, with its 277.9 hectares of sparkling waters in Seguin Township, flows seamlessly into the charming Little Whitefish Lake, which spans 159 hectares. Clear Lake, the southernmost in the chain, sits in the Township of Humphrey, covering 218 hectares and boasting a shoreline dotted with cottages, homes, and a few quaint commercial spots. Properties on these lakes come with a lower price tag than 'the big three'. It’s the perfect spot for those craving a scenic getaway without sacrificing convenience plus there are many other popular lakes in this region.
- Georgian Bay: Known for its vast open waters and beautiful, rugged landscapes, Georgian Bay offers endless opportunities for boating and exploring its many pine-dotted islands.
- Oastler Lake: A popular spot for luxury cottages, Oastler Lake is celebrated for its crystal-clear waters and scenic surroundings, making it ideal for a peaceful retreat.
- Manitouwabing Lake: This lake offers serene waterfront views and is known for its spacious and luxurious cottages, providing an exclusive lakefront experience.
- Lake Joseph: Extending into the northern reaches of Parry Sound, Lake Joseph is well-known for its clear waters, luxury cottages, and breathtaking surroundings. It’s an ideal spot for water sports, fishing, and unwinding in an idyllic lakefront setting.
- Lioness Lake: Located near Parry Sound, Lioness Lake is a tranquil destination with beautiful views, perfect for those looking to relax by the lakeside.
Notable Schools
- Public School Aux Quatre-Vents: This bilingual school serves students from kindergarten to grade 11 and offers a robust education focusing on French and English language skills.
- Parry Sound Forest School: This unique not-for-profit organization offers nature-based education and outdoor programs for toddlers to teens, fostering hands-on learning experiences and a strong connection to the natural environment.
- Parry Sound High and Intermediate School: As the only primary high school in the region, it offers diverse specialized programs, including Indigenous education, specialist high skills major, instrumental music, drama, art, and various technology courses tailored to support students' unique interests and career paths.
