Highway 12 might not be as famous as Route 66 or as scenic as the Cabot Trail, but if you know where to look, it offers some of Ontario’s most charming and culturally rich stops.
Stretching from the shores of Lake Simcoe through cottage country and into the heart of Georgian Bay, this route is packed with small towns, Indigenous heritage sites, museums, and natural escapes — perfect for a day trip or a series of weekend adventures.
Whether you're into history, hiking, or just a good coffee in a quiet village, here are the best day trips along Highway 12.
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City of Orillia: Where arts, history, and waterways meet
Orillia is more than just a pit stop — it's a full-on destination. This Sunshine City on the shores of Lake Couchiching has deep cultural roots, a strong arts scene, and a welcoming small-town vibe.
Here are just a few of the day trips to check out just off Highway 12:
OPP Museum
Tucked behind the Ontario Provincial Police General Headquarters, this free museum is more captivating than you might expect. The exhibits showcase the history of policing in Ontario, complete with vintage cruisers, uniforms, and real-life stories from the front lines. Great for families or anyone curious about the province’s law enforcement legacy.
Mnjikaning Fish Weirs
These ancient wooden fishing structures, located near the Atherley Narrows, are over 5,000 years old — older than the pyramids. Built by Indigenous peoples of the area, they offer a powerful reminder of the region’s long history. Interpretive signs tell the story, and the peaceful setting along the water makes it a worthwhile stop for reflection.
Leacock Museum
Once the summer home of Canadian teacher, writer and humorist Stephen Leacock, this lakeside estate is now a museum dedicated to his life and work. Even if you’re not a literary buff, the grounds alone are worth the visit — complete with gardens, waterfront views, and a tearoom serving lunch and light fare.
Orillia Museum of Art & History (OMAH)
Located in a former jail and courthouse, this downtown gem showcases rotating art exhibits and permanent displays that celebrate Orillia’s past. From local artists to Indigenous history, there's always something thought-provoking here. Bonus: it’s right in the heart of the city’s walkable core.
Orillia Opera House
Catch a matinee or take a peek inside this historic performance space dating back to 1895. It’s the cultural heart of the city, hosting everything from concerts and plays to comedy nights. Even if you don’t catch a show, the building alone is worth admiring.
Village of Coldwater: Quaint, quiet, and full of character
Just a short drive from Orillia, Coldwater feels like a step back in time in the best way. This tiny village just off Highway 12 has heritage buildings, unique shops, and a strong sense of community pride that makes it perfect for day trips. It’s a great place to stretch your legs, browse local art, and learn about early settler life.
Wildflower Farm
A few minutes outside the village, this eco-friendly farm is dedicated to native plants and sustainable landscaping. You’ll find sprawling meadows, pollinator gardens, and a lovely shop with seeds, eco-products, and local honey. It’s especially stunning in peak bloom.
The Coldwater Mill
This iconic grist mill has stood on the banks of the Coldwater River since the 1830s. Now home to artisan vendors and a seasonal market, the restored building is both picturesque and functional. It's also a great photo op, especially with the waterfall-style dam nearby.
Coldwater Canadian Museum
Step into pioneer life at this open-air museum featuring historic log cabins, antique tools, and exhibits on early settler life in Simcoe County. It’s small but packed with charm — and the volunteers here have some great stories if you take the time to chat.
Tay Township: Natural beauty and layers of history
As you continue west along Highway 12, Tay Township offers a mix of spiritual landmarks, nature preserves, and hands-on heritage experiences. It’s a quieter part of the route — perfect if you're looking to slow down and soak in some history or fresh air.
Gatrix Garden Lilies
This seasonal gem is a lily lover’s dream. Open in July and early August, Gatrix Gardens showcases thousands of vibrant daylilies in full bloom. The fields are dreamy, the owners are friendly, and you can even take a few plants home for your own garden.
Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre
Nature lovers, this one’s for you. With more than 25 kilometres of trails, boardwalks, and canoe routes through wetland habitat, Wye Marsh is home to trumpeter swans, turtles, and a wide range of birdlife. It’s both peaceful and educational, with programming for kids and adults.
Sainte-Marie among the Hurons
This national historic site is one of the most immersive history experiences in Ontario. A detailed reconstruction of a 17th-century French Jesuit mission, Sainte-Marie lets you walk through life as it was for settlers and Indigenous peoples at a time of great cultural exchange and tension. Costumed interpreters bring the past to life in meaningful ways.
Martyrs' Shrine
Across the road from Sainte-Marie, this Catholic pilgrimage site honours the Jesuit missionaries who lived and died in the area. Even if you're not religious, the grounds are beautifully maintained, and the architecture — especially the towering church — is impressive and serene.
Huronia Museum
Located in Midland just beyond Tay, this museum includes both indoor exhibits and a reconstructed Huron-Wendat village. It’s a good companion visit to Sainte-Marie, offering Indigenous perspectives and a deeper understanding of the region’s complex history.
One highway, dozens of stories
Highway 12 isn’t just a way to get from point A to point B — it’s a route packed with day trips and discoveries, both big and small. From ancient fish weirs to blooming lily fields, historic mills to lively museums, each stop adds a new layer to the story of this region.
You might not hit everything in one go, but that’s what makes it worth returning to. Whether you're planning a weekend escape or just looking for a scenic detour, Highway 12 offers something rare — the chance to slow down, explore deeply, and connect with the communities that make Ontario feel like home.
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